bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient with Reward Function Based on Fuzzy Logic for Robotic Peg-in-Hole Assembly Tasks
Authors: Wang Ziyue , Li Fengming , Men Yu , Fu Tianyu , Yang Xuting , Song Rui
Published: March 2022

Robot automatic assembly of weak stiffness parts is difficult due to potential deformation during assembly. The robot manipulation cannot adapt to the dynamic contact changes during the assembly process. A robot assembly skill learning system is designed by combining the compliance control and deep reinforcement, which could acquire a better robot assembly strategy. In this paper, a robot assembly strategy learning method based on variable impedance control is proposed to solve the robot assembly contact tasks. During the assembly process, the quality evaluation is designed based on fuzzy logic, and the impedance parameters in the assembly process are studied with a deep deterministic policy gradient. Finally, the effectiveness of the method is verified using the KUKA iiwa robot in the weak stiffness peg-in-hole assembly. Experimental results show that the robot obtains the robot assembly strategy with variable compliant in the process of weak stiffness peg-in-hole assembly. Compared with the previous methods, the assembly success rate of the proposed method reaches 100%.
Poly(lactic acid)-Based Electrospun Fibrous Structures for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Maleki Homa , Azimi Bahareh , Ismaeilimoghadam Saeed , Danti Serena
Published: March 2022

Poly(lactic acid)(PLA) is an aliphatic polyester that can be derived from natural and renewable resources. Owing to favorable features, such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, good thermal and mechanical performance, and processability, PLA has been considered as one of the most promising biopolymers for biomedical applications. Particularly, electrospun PLA nanofibers with distinguishing characteristics, such as similarity to the extracellular matrix, large specific surface area and high porosity with small pore size and tunable mechanical properties for diverse applications, have recently given rise to advanced spillovers in the medical area. A variety of PLA-based nanofibrous structures have been explored for biomedical purposes, such as wound dressing, drug delivery systems, and tissue engineering scaffolds. This review highlights the recent advances in electrospinning of PLA-based structures for biomedical applications. It also gives a comprehensive discussion about the promising approaches suggested for optimizing the electrospun PLA nanofibrous structures towards the design of specific medical devices with appropriate physical, mechanical and biological functions.
Aerodynamic Optimization and Analysis of Low Reynolds Number Propeller with Gurney Flap for Ultra-High-Altitude Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
Authors: Yao Yuan , Ma Dongli , Zhang Liang , Yang Xiaopeng , Yu Yayun
Published: March 2022

Ultra-high-altitude unmanned aerial vehicles have created a high demand for the performance of propellers under low Reynolds numbers, while the efficiency of such propellers by the existing design framework has reached a bottleneck. This paper explores the possibility of extending the Gurney flap on low Reynolds number propellers to achieve efficiency breakthrough. An iterative optimization strategy for propellers with Gurney flaps is established, in which cross-sectional airfoils can be continuously optimized under updated Reynolds numbers and lift coefficients. A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation based on the γ-Reθ model was used as an aerodynamic analysis method. Propellers with and without Gurney flaps were optimized successively. Optimal results were analyzed using the CFD method. Results showed that an optimal propeller with a Gurney flap can achieve an efficiency of 82.0% in cruising conditions, which is 1.8% higher than an optimal propeller without a Gurney flap. Compared with the latter, the consumed power of the optimal propeller with a Gurney flap can be reduced by 2.2% with the same advance speed. Furthermore, the variation of the improvement by the Gurney flap propeller, along with its Reynolds number, was studied. A wind tunnel test indicates that the performance of the propellers obtained by the CFD method are in good agreement with the test results.
An Approach for Modelling Harnesses in the Extreme near Field for Low Frequencies
Authors: Baklezos Anargyros T. , Kapetanakis Theodoros N. , Vardiambasis Ioannis O. , Capsalis Christos N. , Nikolopoulos Christos D.
Published: March 2022

A key part of every space science mission, in the system-level approach, is the detailed study and modeling of the emissions from transmission lines. Harnesses usually emit electromagnetic fields due to the currents (of common and/or differential modes) that flow on their shields. These fields can be identified via conducted emissions measurements. Relying on the operating frequency, any cable can be considered as a dipole or a traveling-wave antenna. Limited work can be found in the literature regarding modeling methodologies for cable topologies, especially in the low frequency (ELF, SLF, VLF, LF) domain. This work intends to provide perceptions for the precise estimation of harness radiated emissions, consider a mission-specific measurement point (where the sensors are placed), and follow ESA’s recent science mission studies for electromagnetic cleanliness applications. For the low frequencies considered herein, any linear cable path is considered as a point source (infinitesimal dipole) and we evaluate its effect on the calculated electric field extremely close to the source. For such distances, it is shown that the dipole representation is not accurate. To remedy this phenomenon, this article proposes a methodology, which can be easily expanded to complex cable geometry cases.
Assessment of Two Commonly used Dermal Regeneration Templates in a Swine Model without Skin Grafting
Authors: Eisler Wiebke , Baur Jan-Ole , Held Manuel , Rahmanian-Schwarz Afshin , Daigeler Adrien , Denzinger Markus
Published: March 2022

In the medical care of partial and full-thickness wounds, autologous skin grafting is still the gold standard of dermal replacement. In contrast to spontaneous reepithelializing of superficial wounds, deep dermal wounds often lead to disturbing scarring, with cosmetically or functionally unsatisfactory results. However, modern wound dressings offer promising approaches to surface reconstruction. Against the background of our future aim to develop an innovative skin substitute, we investigated the behavior of two established dermal substitutes, a crosslinked and a non-crosslinked collagen biomatrix. The products were applied topically on a total of 18 full-thickness skin defects paravertebrally on the back of female Göttingen Minipigs—six control wounds remained untreated. The evaluation was carried out planimetrically (wound closure time) and histologically (neoepidermal cell number and epidermis thickness). Both treatment groups demonstrated significantly faster reepithelialization than the controls. The histologic examination verified the highest epidermal thickness in the crosslinked biomatrix-treated wounds, whereas the non-crosslinked biomatrix-treated wounds showed a higher cell density. Our data presented a positive influence on epidermal regeneration with the chosen dermis substitutes even without additional skin transplantation and, thus, without additional donor site morbidity. Therefore, it can be stated that the single biomatrix application might be used in a clinical routine with small wounds, which needs to be investigated further in a clinical setting to determine the size and depths of a suitable wound bed. Nevertheless, currently available products cannot solely achieve wound healing that is equal to or superior to autologous tissue. Thus, the overarching aim still is the development of an innovative skin substitute to manage surface reconstruction without additional skin grafting.
Using Feature Selection with Machine Learning for Generation of Insurance Insights
Authors: Taha Ayman , Cosgrave Bernard , Mckeever Susan
Published: March 2022

Insurance is a data-rich sector, hosting large volumes of customer data that is analysed to evaluate risk. Machine learning techniques are increasingly used in the effective management of insurance risk. Insurance datasets by their nature, however, are often of poor quality with noisy subsets of data (or features). Choosing the right features of data is a significant pre-processing step in the creation of machine learning models. The inclusion of irrelevant and redundant features has been demonstrated to affect the performance of learning models. In this article, we propose a framework for improving predictive machine learning techniques in the insurance sector via the selection of relevant features. The experimental results, based on five publicly available real insurance datasets, show the importance of applying feature selection for the removal of noisy features before performing machine learning techniques, to allow the algorithm to focus on influential features. An additional business benefit is the revelation of the most and least important features in the datasets. These insights can prove useful for decision making and strategy development in areas/business problems that are not limited to the direct target of the downstream algorithms. In our experiments, machine learning techniques based on a set of selected features suggested by feature selection algorithms outperformed the full feature set for a set of real insurance datasets. Specifically, 20% and 50% of features in our five datasets had improved downstream clustering and classification performance when compared to whole datasets. This indicates the potential for feature selection in the insurance sector to both improve model performance and to highlight influential features for business insights.
Diverse Impact of Sensitive Sub-Categories of Demographic Variables on Safety Climate of High-Rise Building Projects
Authors: Zahoor Hafiz , Khan Rashid Mehmood , Ali Babar , Maqsoom Ahsen , Mazher Khwaja Mateen , Ullah Fahim
Published: March 2022

The identification of significant areas impacting safety performance has always been a key concern for construction management researchers. This paper aims to examine the diversified influence of sensitive sub-categories of demographic variables on construction safety climate (SC). The data relating to fourteen demographic variables and twenty-four formerly validated SC statements were collected from forty-one under-construction high-rise buildings in Pakistan. The variances in respondents’ distribution among various sub-categories of demographic variables, and influence of each sub-category of demographic variables on SC statements were analyzed using cross-tabulation, Spearman’s rho correlation coefficients, independent sample Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests. The study comprehends that the employees in the age group of 20 years or below and between 41 and 50 years, engaged for over 48 h per week, having 4 dependent family members, primary education, and/or lesser working experience, attained a comparatively lower SC level. Likewise, frontline workers and foremen are observed to be employed for extended working hours, causing them fatigue. It also discovers that safety alertness level steadily declines once employees get acquainted with their tasks, thus necessitating to arrange periodic refresher safety training sessions. The study recommends concentrating on frontline workers and foremen who are less educated and fall in the age group of 41–50 years by resolving their safety concerns and providing them adequate safety training, promptly replacing their defective equipment, improving worksite conditions, and counselling them about the significance of wearing PPE and adhering to all the safety rules regardless of the difficulty in their enactment. A joint focus on the heightened personal attributes of employees and risky SC statements is expected to enhance safety performance on under-construction building projects. Moreover, the study’s results can be cautiously generalized and applied to other countries having similar work environment.
Development of a Model for Evaluating the Efficiency of Transport Companies: PCA–DEA–MCDM Model
Authors: Stević Željko , Miškić Smiljka , Vojinović Dragan , Huskanović Eldina , Stanković Miomir , Pamučar Dragan
Published: March 2022

The efficiency of transport companies is a very important factor for the companies themselves, as well as for the entire economic system. The main goal of this paper is to develop an integrated model for determining the efficiency of representative transport companies over a period of eight years. An original model was developed that includes the integration of DEA (Data Envelopment Analysis), PCA (Principal Component Analysis), CRITIC (Criteria Importance Through Inter criteria Correlatio), Entropy and MARCOS (Measurement Alternatives and Ranking according to the COmpromise Solution) methods in order to determine the final efficiency of transport companies based on 10 input–output parameters. The results showed that the most efficient business performance was achieved in the period 2014–2017, followed by slightly less efficient results. Then, extensive sensitivity analysis and comparative analysis were performed, which confirmed, to some extent, the previously obtained results. In the sensitivity analysis, 30 scenarios with changes in the weights of criteria were created, while the comparative analysis was carried out with three other MCDM (Multi-Criteria Decision-Making) methods. Finally, the rank correlation index was determined using the Spearman and WS (Wojciech Salabun) correlation coefficients. According to the final results, very efficient years can be separated that can be the benchmark for furthering the business.
On Solutions and Stability of Stochastic Functional Equations Emerging in Psychological Theory of Learning
Authors: Turab Ali , Brzdęk Janusz , Ali Wajahat
Published: March 2022

We show how to apply the well-known fixed-point approach in the study of the existence, uniqueness, and stability of solutions to some particular types of functional equations. Moreover, we also obtain the Ulam stability result for them. The functional equations that we consider can be used to explain various experiments in mathematical psychology and arise in a natural way in the stochastic approach to the processes of perception, learning, reasoning, and cognition.
Factors Influencing Citizens’ Intention to Use Open Government Data—A Case Study of Pakistan
Authors: Khurshid Muhammad Mahboob , Zakaria Nor Hidayati , Arfeen Muhammad Irfanullah , Rashid Ammar , Nasir Safi Ullah , Shehzad Hafiz Muhammad Faisal
Published: March 2022

Open government data (OGD) has gained much attention worldwide; however, there is still an increasing demand for exploring research from the perspective of its adoption and diffusion. Policymakers expect that OGD will be used on a large scale by the public, which will result in a range of benefits, such as: faith and trust in governments, innovation and development, and participatory governance. However, not much is known about which factors influence the citizens’ intention to use OGD. Therefore, this research aims at empirically investigating the factors that influence citizens’ intention to use OGD in a developing country using information systems theory. Improved knowledge and understanding of the influencing factors can assist policymakers in determining which policy initiatives they can take to increase the intention to widely use OGD. Upon conducting a survey and performing analysis, findings reveal that perceived usefulness, social approval, and enjoyment positively influences intention, whereas voluntariness of use negatively influences OGD use. Further, perceived usefulness is significantly affected by perceived ease of use, and OGD use is significantly affected by OGD use intention. However, surprisingly, the intention to use OGD is not significantly affected by perceived ease of use. The policymakers suggest increasing the intention to use OGD by considering significant factors.
Translating Biochemistry Concepts into Cartoons and Graphic Narratives: Potential and Pitfalls
Authors: Alemany-Pagès Mireia , Tavares Rui , Azul Anabela Marisa , Ramalho-Santos João
Published: March 2022

Simple biochemical concepts can be hard to grasp by non-specialists, even when they are related to practical contexts in industry, day-to-day activities, or well-acknowledged pathological conditions. This is especially important in instances where accurate communication of biochemical aspects for different types of stakeholders may be crucial. Examples include interacting with policymakers to establish guidelines, with patients (and/or caregivers) to identify key concepts in promoting awareness and adherence to therapeutic regimens, or with teachers and students for novel approaches in critical thinking. Focusing on our own work in developing communication tools for different purposes, in this review we will focus on some examples of how biochemical concepts can be effectively translated into illustrations and graphical narratives. For this purpose, engagement with target audiences in developing the materials themselves is key. We also discuss how specific projects can be tailored for different purposes, as well as evidence that comic-book strategies are effective in conveying biochemical and biomedical knowledge.
Influence of Apnea Hypopnea Index and the Degree of Airflow Limitation on Endothelial Function in Patients Undergoing Diagnostic Coronary Angiography
Authors: Ochijewicz Dorota , Rdzanek Adam , Przybyłowski Tadeusz , Rubinsztajn Renata , Budnik Monika , Pędzich Ewa , Białek-Gosk Katarzyna , Bielicki Piotr , Kapłon-Cieślicka Agnieszka
Published: March 2022

Background: Obstructive sleep apnea is associated with an increased prevalence of cardiovascular disease. The mechanism of these associations is not completely understood. We aimed to investigate the association of the apnea hypopnea index and the degree of airflow limitation with endothelial dysfunction. Methods: This was a single-center prospective study of patients admitted for diagnostic coronary angiography (CAG). Endothelial function was assessed by the non-invasive EndoPAT system by reactive hyperemia index (RHI) and divided into two groups: endothelial dysfunction and normal endothelial function. Sleep apnea signs were detected by WatchPAT measuring the respiratory disturbance index (pRDI), the apnea and hypopnea index (pAHI), and the oxygen desaturation index (ODI). Patients underwent spirometry and body plethysmography. Based on CAG, the severity of coronary artery disease was assessed as follows: no significant coronary artery disease, single-, two- and three-vessel disease. Results: A total of 113 patients were included in the study. Breathing disorders measured by WatchPAT and spirometry were more severe in patients with endothelial dysfunction: pRDI (27.3 vs. 14.8, p = 0.001), pAHI (24.6 vs. 10.3, p < 0.001), ODI (13.7 vs. 5.2, p = 0.002), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) (81.2 vs. 89, p = 0.05). In a multivariate regression analysis, pAHI and FEV1 were independent predictors of endothelial dysfunction assessed by RHI. There was no correlation between the severity of coronary artery disease and endothelial dysfunction. Conclusions: Obstructive sleep apnea signs and greater airflow limitation were associated with endothelial dysfunction regardless of the severity of the coronary artery disease.
Deep Insights into the Specific Evolution of Fungal Hybrid B Heme Peroxidases
Authors: Zámocký Marcel , Musil Miloš , Danchenko Maksym , Ferianc Peter , Chovanová Katarína , Baráth Peter , Poljovka Andrej , Bednář David
Published: March 2022

In this study, we focus on a detailed bioinformatics analysis of hyBpox genes, mainly within the genomes of Sclerotiniaceae (Ascomycota, Leotiomycetes), which is a specifically evolved fungal family of necrotrophic host generalists and saprophytic or biotrophic host specialists. Members of the genus Sclerotium produce only sclerotia and no fruiting bodies or spores. Thus, their physiological role for peroxidases remains open. A representative species, S. cepivorum, is a dangerous plant pathogen causing white rot in Allium species, particularly in onions, leeks, and garlic. On a worldwide basis, the white rot caused by this soil-borne fungus is apparently the most serious threat to Allium-crop production. We have also found very similar peroxidase sequences in the related fungus S. sclerotiorum, although with minor yet important modifications in the architecture of its active centre. The presence of ScephyBpox1-specific mRNA was confirmed by transcriptomic analysis. The presence of Hybrid B peroxidase at the protein level as the sole extracellular peroxidase of this fungus was confirmed in the secretome of S. cepivorum through detailed proteomic analyses. This prompted us to systematically search for all available genes coding for Hybrid B heme peroxidases in the whole fungal family of Sclerotiniaceae. We present here a reconstruction of their molecular phylogeny and analyse the unique aspects of their conserved-sequence features and structural folds in corresponding ancestral sequences.
Spatial Metagenomic Analysis in Understanding the Microbial Diversity of Thar Desert
Authors: Parihar Jagdish , Parihar Suraj P. , Suravajhala Prashanth , Bagaria Ashima
Published: March 2022

The arid and semi-arid regions of Rajasthan are one of the most extreme biomes of India, possessing diverse microbial communities that exhibit immense biotechnological potential for industries. Herein, we sampled study sites from arid and semi-arid regions of Thar Desert, Rajasthan, India and subjected them to chemical, physical and metagenomics analysis. The microbial diversity was studied using V3–V4 amplicon sequencing of 16S rRNA gene by Illumina MiSeq. Our metagenomic analyses revealed that the sampled sites consist mainly of Proteobacteria (19–31%) followed by unclassified bacteria (5–21%), Actinobacteria (3–25%), Planctomycetes (5–13%), Chloroflexi (2–14%), Bacteroidetes (3–12%), Firmicutes (3–7%), Acidobacteria (1–4%) and Patescibacteria (1–4%). We have found Proteobacteria in abundance which is associated with a range of activities involved in biogeochemical cycles such as carbon, nitrogen, and sulphur. Our study is perhaps the first of its kind to explore soil bacteria from arid and semi-arid regions of Rajasthan, India. We believe that the new microbial candidates found can be further explored for various industrial and biotechnological applications.
Selenium Nanoparticles Biosynthesized by Pantoea agglomerans and Their Effects on Cellular and Physiological Parameters in the Rainbow Trout Oncorhynchus mykiss
Authors: Yanez-Lemus Francisco , Moraga Rubén , Mercado Luis , Jara-Gutierrez Carlos , Smith Carlos T. , Aguayo Paulina , Sanchez-Alonzo Kimberly , García-Cancino Apolinaria , Valenzuela Ariel , Campos Victor L.
Published: March 2022

The applications of nanoparticles (Nps) as food additives, health enhancers, and antimicrobials in animal production are increasing. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of selenium (Se) nanoparticles (Se0Nps) stabilized with L-cysteine (Se0Nps/L-Cys), as a nutritional supplement, on immunological, oxidative status, and productive parameters in O. mykiss. TEM and SEM-EDS showed the accumulation of spherical Se0Nps entirely composed by elemental selenium (Se0) as intracellular and extracellular deposits in Pantoea agglomerans UC-32 strain. The in vitro antioxidant capacity of Se0Nps/L-Cys was significant more efficient ROS scavengers than Se0Nps and Na2SeO3. We also evaluate the effect of Se0Nps/L-Cys on cell viability and oxidative stress in RTgill-W1, RTS-11, or T-PHKM Oncorhynchus mykiss cell lines. Se0Nps/L-Cys showed less toxic and high antioxidant activity than Se0Nps and Na2SeO3. Finally, the dietary Se0Nps/L-Cys had a significant better effect on both plasma lysozyme and respiratory burst activity (innate immune response), on tissular Gpx activity (oxidative status), and on well-being (productive parameter) of O. mykiss when it is compared to Se0Nps and Na2SeO3. Se0Nps/L-Cys is a promising alternative for nutritional supplement for O. mykiss with better performance than Na2SeO3 and Se0Nps, ease to implementation, and reduced environmental impact.
Proteotranscriptomic Analysis and Toxicity Assay Suggest the Functional Distinction between Venom Gland Chambers in Twin-Spotted Assassin Bug, Platymeris biguttatus
Authors: Gao Fanding , Tian Li , Li Xinyu , Zhang Yinqiao , Wang Tianfang , Ma Ling , Song Fan , Cai Wanzhi , Li Hu
Published: March 2022

Assassin bugs use their salivary venoms for various purposes, including defense, prey paralyzation, and extra-oral digestion, but the mechanisms underlying the functional complexity of the venom remain largely unclear. Since venom glands are composed of several chambers, it is suggested that individual chambers may be specialized to produce chemically distinct venoms to exert different functions. The current study assesses this hypothesis by performing toxicity assays and transcriptomic and proteomic analysis on components from three major venom gland chambers including the anterior main gland (AMG), the posterior main gland (PMG), and the accessory gland (AG) of the assassin bug Platymeris biguttatus. Proteotranscriptomic analysis reveals that AMG and PMG extracts are rich in hemolytic proteins and serine proteases, respectively, whereas transferrin and apolipophorin are dominant in the AG. Toxicity assays reveal that secretions from different gland chambers have distinct effects on the prey, with that from AG compromising prey mobility, that from PMG causing prey death and liquifying the corpse, and that from AMG showing no significant physiological effects. Our study reveals a functional cooperation among venom gland chambers of assassin bugs and provides new insights into physiological adaptations to venom-based predation and defense in venomous predatory bugs.
In Silico Multi-Target Approach Revealed Potential Lead Compounds as Scaffold for the Synthesis of Chemical Analogues Targeting SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Trezza Alfonso , Mugnaini Claudia , Corelli Federico , Santucci Annalisa , Spiga Ottavia
Published: March 2022

Severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), an infectious disease that spreads rapidly in humans. In March 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a COVID-19 pandemic. Identifying a multi-target-directed ligand approach would open up new opportunities for drug discovery to combat COVID-19. The aim of this work was to perform a virtual screening of an exclusive chemical library of about 1700 molecules containing both pharmacologically active compounds and synthetic intermediates to propose potential protein inhibitors for use against SARS-CoV-2. In silico analysis showed that our compounds triggered an interaction network with key residues of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (S-protein), blocking trimer formation and interaction with the human receptor hACE2, as well as with the main 3C-like protease (3CLpro), inhibiting their biological function. Our data may represent a step forward in the search for potential new chemotherapeutic agents for the treatment of COVID-19.
In-Season Quantification and Relationship of External and Internal Intensity, Sleep Quality, and Psychological or Physical Stressors of Semi-Professional Soccer Players
Authors: Nobari Hadi , Gholizadeh Roghayyeh , Martins Alexandre Duarte , Badicu Georgian , Oliveira Rafael
Published: March 2022

The purpose of this study was two-fold: (a) to describe and analyse the relationship of the in-season variations of external and internal intensity metrics as well as well-being measures across different periods of a semi-professional soccer season (early-, mid- and end-season); and (b) to describe training monotony (TM) and training strain (TS) for 20 weeks in a semi-professional soccer season. Eighteen semi-professional players (age: 29 ± 4.1) from the Asian First League team participated in this study. The players were monitored for 20 consecutive weeks during in-season for external training intensity, internal training intensity and well-being parameters. The in-season was organized into three periods: early-season (weeks 1–7); mid-season (weeks 8–13); and end-season (weeks 14–20). Total distance (TD), high-speed running distance (HSRD), sprint distance, rate of perceived exertion (RPE), session-RPE (s-RPE), TM, TS, heart rate average and maximum, as well as sleep quality, stress and muscle soreness were collected. Results revealed that TD, HSRD and sprint distance (total values) were meaningfully greater during end-season than in the early-season. RPE showed a significantly highest value during the end-season (4.27 AU) than in early- (3.68 AU) and mid-season (3.65 AU), p < 0.01. TS showed significant differences between early-season with mid-season (p = 0.011) and end-season (p < 0.01), and the highest value occurred in week 17 during end-season (6656.51 AU), while the lowest value occurred in week 4 during early-season (797.17 AU). The average TD periods showed a moderate to large correlation with RPE, sleep and s-RPE at early-, mid- and end-season. Increasing the training intensity without considering the well-being of the players affects the performance of the team. Examining processes of the relationship between training intensity and other psychological indicators among players will probably be effective in training planning. Sports coaches and fitness professionals should be wary of changes in TM and TS that affect players performance. Therefore, to better control the training, more consideration should be given by the coaches.
Radiomics Metrics Combined with Clinical Data in the Surgical Management of Early-Stage (cT1–T2 N0) Tongue Squamous Cell Carcinomas: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Committeri Umberto , Fusco Roberta , Di Bernardo Elio , Abbate Vincenzo , Salzano Giovanni , Maglitto Fabio , Dell’Aversana Orabona Giovanni , Piombino Pasquale , Bonavolontà Paola , Arena Antonio , Perri Francesco , Maglione Maria Grazia , Setola Sergio Venanzio , Granata Vincenza , Iaconetta Giorgio , Ionna Franco , Petrillo Antonella , Califano Luigi
Published: March 2022

Objective: To predict the risk of metastatic lymph nodes and the tumor grading related to oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma (OTSCC) through the combination of clinical data with radiomics metrics by computed tomography, and to develop a supportive approach in the management of the lymphatic cervical areas, with particular attention to the early stages (T1−T2). Between March 2016 and February 2020, patients with histologically confirmed OTSCC, treated by partial glossectomy and ipsilateral laterocervical lymphadenectomy and subjected to computed tomography (CT) before surgery, were identified by two centers: 81 patients (49 female and 32 male) with 58 years as the median age (range 19–86 years). Univariate analysis with non-parametric tests and multivariate analysis with machine learning approaches were used. Clinical, hematological parameters and radiological features extracted by CT were considered individually and in combination. All clinical parameters showed statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) for the Kruskal−Wallis test when discriminating both the tumor grading and the metastatic lymph nodes. DOI, PLR, SII, and SIRI showed an accuracy of 0.70 (ROC analysis) when identifying the tumor grading, while an accuracy ≥ 0.78 was shown by DOI, NLR, PLR, SII, and SIRI when discriminating metastatic lymph nodes. In the context of the analysis of radiomics metrics, the original_glszm_HighGrayLevelZoneEmphasis feature was selected for identifying the tumor grading (accuracy of 0.70), while the wavelet_HHH_glrlm_LowGrayLevelRunEmphasis predictor was selected for determining metastatic lymph nodes (accuracy of 0.96). Remarkable findings were also obtained when classifying patients with a machine learning approach. Radiomics features alone can predict tumor grading with an accuracy of 0.76 using a logistic regression model, while an accuracy of 0.82 can be obtained by running a CART algorithm through a combination of three clinical parameters (SIRI, DOI, and PLR) with a radiomics feature (wavelet_LLL_glszm_SizeZoneNonUniformityNormalized). In the context of predicting metastatic lymph nodes, an accuracy of 0.94 was obtained using 15 radiomics features in a logistic regression model, while both CART and CIDT achieved an asymptotic accuracy value of 1.00 using only one radiomics feature. Radiomics features and clinical parameters have an important role in identifying tumor grading and metastatic lymph nodes. Machine learning approaches can be used as an easy-to-use tool to stratify patients with early-stage OTSCC, based on the identification of metastatic and non-metastatic lymph nodes.
Interleukin-6-Production Is Responsible for Induction of Hepatic Synthesis of Several Chemokines as Acute-Phase Mediators in Two Animal Models: Possible Significance for Interpretation of Laboratory Changes in Severely Ill Patients
Authors: Malik Ihtzaz Ahmed , Ramadori Giuliano
Published: March 2022

A mild to moderate increase in acute-phase proteins (APPs) and a decrease in serum albumin levels are detected in hospitalized COVID-19 patients. A similar trend is also observed for acute-phase cytokines (APC), mainly IL6, besides chemokines (e.g., CXCL8 and CCL2). However, the source of the chemokines in these patients at different stages of disease remains to be elucidated. We investigated hepatic gene expression of CXC- and CC-chemokines in a model of a localized extrahepatic aseptic abscess and in a model of septicemia produced by the intramuscular injection of turpentine oil (TO) into each hindlimb or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) intraperitoneally (i.p.) in rats and mice (wild-type (WT) and IL6-KO). Together with a striking increase in the serum IL6 level, strong serum CXCL2 and CXCL8 concentrations were detected. Correspondingly, rapid (2 h) upregulation of CXCL1, CXCL2, CXCL5, and CXCL8 was observed in rat liver after intramuscular TO injection. The induction of the gene expression of CXCL1 and CXCL8 was the fastest and strongest. The hepatic CXC-chemokines behaved like positive APPs that depend on IL6 production by activated macrophages recruited to extrahepatic damaged tissue. Chemokine upregulation was greatly reduced in IL6-KO mice. However, IL6 was dispensable in the LPS–APR model, as massive induction of hepatic chemokines studied was measured in IL6-KO mice.
Physiological Response to Thermal Stress in Obese vs. Non-Obese Physically Inactive Men
Authors: Podstawski Robert , Borysławski Krzysztof , Pomianowski Andrzej , Soós Imre , Boraczyński Michał , Gronek Piotr
Published: March 2022

The effects of thermal stress on the physiological parameters of obese subjects remain insufficiently researched. The objective of this study was to determine the influence of sauna bathing on the physiological parameters of obese and non-obese physically inactive men. Sixty volunteers aged 18–24 years (20.85 ± 1.46) were divided into two groups (group I—normal body mass, group II—class 1 obesity) for a comparative analysis. Somatic features and body composition were determined before sauna, and blood pressure was measured before and after sauna. Physiological parameters were monitored before and during the sauna session. The average values of body mass, body mass index, body surface area, and weight-to-height ratio were significantly higher (p < 0.001) in obese men (by 28.39 kg, 8.7 kg/m2, 0.34 m2, and 0.13, respectively) than in the normal weight group. Similar observations were made in an analysis of the remaining body composition parameters. The values of physiological parameters (heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, energy expenditure, oxygen uptake, excess post-exercise oxygen consumption, respiratory rate) were significantly (p < 0.001) higher in obese subjects. However, the observed physiological changes were within the expected norm; therefore, a 10 min sauna session is safe for young men regardless of their body fat levels.
Demographics and Yield–Per–Recruit Assessment of the Vulnerable Spiny Lobster Palinurus elephas in the Azores—Implications for Conservation and Fisheries Management
Authors: Santos Régis , Peixoto Ualerson Iran , Medeiros-Leal Wendell , Sequeira Rui M. , Novoa-Pabon Ana , Pinho Mário
Published: March 2022

The spiny lobster Palinurus elephas has been intensively harvested across its range and is generally considered overfished, with global landings declining sharply from an average of 820 t in 1960–79 to 385 t in 2000–19. Despite its economic and ecological importance, limited information is available to perform stock assessments and make robust management decisions. In this study, demographics and exploitation levels of P. elephas were determined from coastal areas of the Azores, and the relevance of these data for conservation planning was discussed. Carapace length varied between 39.6 and 174.3 mm, with mean sizes decreasing by depth. Males reached larger sizes and grew faster than females but were less dominant. Lifespan was 43 years for females and 60 years for males. The estimated mean length at first capture was 101.65 mm—around 58% of its asymptotic length. Fishing mortality and exploitation levels were close to the optimal values, indicating an uncertain future for Azorean populations if stock assessment and management initiatives are not focused on this species. Conservation and management strategies may benefit from these results under the ‘precautionary approach’ principle. However, up–to–date and accurate catch and fishing effort data need to be urgently collected.
Age Estimate of GJB2-p.(Arg143Trp) Founder Variant in Hearing Impairment in Ghana, Suggests Multiple Independent Origins across Populations
Authors: Aboagye Elvis Twumasi , Adadey Samuel Mawuli , Esoh Kevin , Jonas Mario , de Kock Carmen , Amenga-Etego Lucas , Awandare Gordon A. , Wonkam Ambroise
Published: March 2022

Gap junction protein beta 2 (GJB2) (connexin 26) variants are commonly implicated in non-syndromic hearing impairment (NSHI). In Ghana, the GJB2 variant p.(Arg143Trp) is the largest contributor to NSHI and has a reported prevalence of 25.9% in affected multiplex families. To date, in the African continent, GJB2-p.(Arg143Trp) has only been reported in Ghana. Using whole-exome sequencing data from 32 individuals from 16 families segregating NSHI, and 38 unrelated hearing controls with the same ethnolinguistic background, we investigated the date and origin of p.(Arg143Trp) in Ghana using linked markers. With a Bayesian linkage disequilibrium gene mapping method, we estimated GJB2-p.(Arg143Trp) to have originated about 9625 years (385 generations) ago in Ghana. A haplotype analysis comparing data extracted from Ghanaians and those from the 1000 Genomes project revealed that GJB2-p.(Arg143Trp) is carried on different haplotype backgrounds in Ghanaian and Japanese populations, as well as among populations of European ancestry, lending further support to the multiple independent origins of the variant. In addition, we found substantial haplotype conservation in the genetic background of Ghanaian individuals with biallelic GJB2-p.(Arg143Trp) compared to the GJB2-p.(Arg143Trp)-negative group with normal hearing from Ghana, suggesting a strong evolutionary constraint in this genomic region in Ghanaian populations that are homozygous for GJB2-p.(Arg143Trp). The present study evaluates the age of GJB2-p.(Arg143Trp) at 9625 years and supports the multiple independent origins of this variant in the global population.
Bulked Segregant Analysis and Association Analysis Identified the Polymorphisms Related to the Intermuscular Bones in Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio)
Authors: Cui Ming-Shu , Zhao Ran , Wang Qi , Zhang Yan , Li Qing-Song , Huang Yang Mei-Di , Sun Xiao-Qing , Li Jiong-Tang
Published: March 2022

The allotetraploid common carp is one of the most important freshwater food fish. However, the IBs found in allotetraploid common carp increase the difficulty in fish meat processing and consumption. Although candidate genes associated with the total IB number have been identified, the SNPs associated with the numbers of the total IBs and different forms of IBs have not yet been identified, hindering the breeding of IB-reduced common carp. Herein, the numbers of different types of IBs in three common carp strains were measured. Using whole-genome resequencing and bulked segregant analysis in three pairs of IB-more and IB-less groups, we identified the consensus nonsynonymous SNPs in three strains of common carp. Screening the flanking regions of these SNPs led to the detection of other SNPs. Association study detected 21 SNPs significantly associated with the number of total IBs, epineural-IBs, and ten detailed types of IBs. We observed the joint effects of multiple SNPs on each associated IB number with an improved explained percentage of phenotypic variation. The resulting dataset provides a resource to understand the molecular mechanisms of IB development in different common carp strains. These SNPs are potential markers for future selection to generate IB-reduced common carp.
The Role of LSD1 and LSD2 in Cancers of the Gastrointestinal System: An Update
Authors: Malagraba Gianluca , Yarmohammadi Mahdieh , Javed Aadil , Barceló Carles , Rubio-Tomás Teresa
Published: March 2022

Epigenetic mechanisms are known to play a key role in cancer progression. Specifically, histone methylation involves reversible post-translational modification of histones that govern chromatin structure remodelling, genomic imprinting, gene expression, DNA damage repair, and meiotic crossover recombination, among other chromatin-based activities. Demethylases are enzymes that catalyse the demethylation of their substrate using a flavin adenine dinucleotide-dependent amine oxidation process. Lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1) and its homolog, lysine-specific demethylase 2 (LSD2), are overexpressed in a variety of human cancer types and, thus, regulate tumour progression. In this review, we focus on the literature from the last 5 years concerning the role of LSD1 and LSD2 in the main gastrointestinal cancers (i.e., gastric cancer, liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, and colorectal cancer).
Transcriptomic Biomarker Signatures for Discrimination of Oral Cancer Surgical Margins
Authors: Fox Simon A. , Vacher Michael , Farah Camile S.
Published: March 2022

Relapse after surgery for oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) contributes significantly to morbidity, mortality and poor outcomes. The current histopathological diagnostic techniques are insufficiently sensitive for the detection of oral cancer and minimal residual disease in surgical margins. We used whole-transcriptome gene expression and small noncoding RNA profiles from tumour, close margin and distant margin biopsies from 18 patients undergoing surgical resection for OSCC. By applying multivariate regression algorithms (sPLS-DA) suitable for higher dimension data, we objectively identified biomarker signatures for tumour and marginal tissue zones. We were able to define molecular signatures that discriminated tumours from the marginal zones and between the close and distant margins. These signatures included genes not previously associated with OSCC, such as MAMDC2, SYNPO2 and ARMH4. For discrimination of the normal and tumour sampling zones, we were able to derive an effective gene-based classifying model for molecular abnormality based on a panel of eight genes (MMP1, MMP12, MYO1B, TNFRSF12A, WDR66, LAMC2, SLC16A1 and PLAU). We demonstrated the classification performance of these gene signatures in an independent validation dataset of OSCC tumour and marginal gene expression profiles. These biomarker signatures may contribute to the earlier detection of tumour cells and complement existing surgical and histopathological techniques used to determine clear surgical margins.
Acetylation, Phosphorylation, Ubiquitination (Oh My!): Following Post-Translational Modifications on the Ubiquitin Road
Authors: Lacoursiere Rachel E. , Hadi Dania , Shaw Gary S.
Published: March 2022

Ubiquitination is controlled by a series of E1, E2, and E3 enzymes that can ligate ubiquitin to cellular proteins and dictate the turnover of a substrate and the outcome of signalling events such as DNA damage repair and cell cycle. This process is complex due to the combinatorial power of ~35 E2 and ~1000 E3 enzymes involved and the multiple lysine residues on ubiquitin that can be used to assemble polyubiquitin chains. Recently, mass spectrometric methods have identified that most enzymes in the ubiquitination cascade can be further modified through acetylation or phosphorylation under particular cellular conditions and altered modifications have been noted in different cancers and neurodegenerative diseases. This review provides a cohesive summary of ubiquitination, acetylation, and phosphorylation sites in ubiquitin, the human E1 enzyme UBA1, all E2 enzymes, and some representative E3 enzymes. The potential impacts these post-translational modifications might have on each protein function are highlighted, as well as the observations from human disease.
Alpha-Synuclein-Specific Naturally Occurring Antibodies Inhibit Aggregation In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Braczynski Anne K. , Sevenich Marc , Gering Ian , Kupreichyk Tatsiana , Agerschou Emil D. , Kronimus Yannick , Habib Pardes , Stoldt Matthias , Willbold Dieter , Schulz Jörg B. , Bach Jan-Philipp , Falkenburger Björn H. , Hoyer Wolfgang
Published: March 2022

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is associated with motor and non-motor symptoms and characterized by aggregates of alpha-synuclein (αSyn). Naturally occurring antibodies (nAbs) are part of the innate immune system, produced without prior contact to their specific antigen, and polyreactive. The abundance of nAbs against αSyn is altered in patients with PD. In this work, we biophysically characterized nAbs against αSyn (nAbs-αSyn) and determined their biological effects. nAbs-αSyn were isolated from commercial intravenous immunoglobulins using column affinity purification. Biophysical properties were characterized using a battery of established in vitro assays. Biological effects were characterized in HEK293T cells transiently transfected with fluorescently tagged αSyn. Specific binding of nAbs-αSyn to monomeric αSyn was demonstrated by Dot blot, ELISA, and Surface Plasmon Resonance. nAbs-αSyn did not affect viability of HEK293T cells as reported by Cell Titer Blue and LDH Assays. nAbs-αSyn inhibited fibrillation of αSyn reported by the Thioflavin T aggregation assay. Altered fibril formation was confirmed with atomic force microscopy. In cells transfected with EGFP-tagged αSyn we observed reduced formation of aggresomes, perinuclear accumulations of αSyn aggregates. The results demonstrate that serum of healthy individuals contains nAbs that specifically bind αSyn and inhibit aggregation of αSyn in vitro. The addition of nAbs-αSyn to cultured cells affects intracellular αSyn aggregates. These findings help understanding the role of the innate immune systems for the pathogenesis of PD and suggest that systemic αSyn binding agents could potentially affect neuronal αSyn pathology.