bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Circulating Extracellular Vesicles and Particles Derived From Adipocytes: The Potential Role in Spreading MicroRNAs Associated With Cellular Senescence
Authors: Siqueira Ionara Rodrigues , de Souza Rodrigues Andressa , Flores Marina Siqueira , Vieira Cunha Eduarda Letícia , Goldberg Madeleine , Harmon Brennan , Batabyal Rachael , Freishtat Robert J. , Cechinel Laura Reck
Published: August 2022

Aging is associated with adipose tissue dysfunction and is recognized as a risk factor for shortened life span. Considering that in vitro findings have shown the involvement of microRNA in extracellular vesicles and particles (EVPs) on senescence, we hypothesized that circulating EVPs derived from adipocytes can be involved in the aging process via their microRNA cargo. We aimed to determine the microRNA profiles of circulating EVPs derived from adipocytes (FABP4+) from aged and young adult animals and to perform in silico prediction of their downstream signaling effects. Plasma was obtained from Wistar rats (3 and 21 months old), and adipocyte-derived EVPs were isolated using the commercially available kit. Fatty acid-binding protein 4 (FABP4) was used for adipocyte-derived EVPs isolation; microRNA isolation and microarray expression analysis were performed. The analysis revealed 728 miRNAs, 32 were differentially between groups (p < 0.05; fold change ≥ |1.1|), of which 15 miRNAs were upregulated and 17 were downregulated in circulating EVPs from aged animals compared to young adults. A conservative filter was applied, and 18 microRNAs had experimentally validated and highly conserved predicted mRNA targets, with a total of 2,228 mRNAs. Canonical pathways, disease and functions, and upstream regulator analyses were performed using IPA-QIAGEN, allowing a global and interconnected evaluation. IPA categories impacted negatively were cell cycle, cellular development, cellular growth and proliferation, and tissue development, while those impacted positively were “digestive system cancer” and “endocrine gland tumor.” Interestingly, the upregulated miR-15-5p targets several cyclins, such as CCND1 and CCND2, and miR-24-3p seems to target CDK4 (cyclin-dependent kinase 4); then potentially inhibiting their expression, both miRNAs can induce a negative regulation of cell cycle progression. In contrast, silencing of negative cell cycle checkpoint regulators, such as p21 and p16, can be predicted, which can induce impairment in response to genotoxic stressors. In addition, predicted targets, such as SMAD family members, seem to be involved in the positive control of digestive and endocrine tumors. Taken together, this exploratory study indicates that miRNA signature in circulating adipocyte-derived EVPs may be involved with the double-edged sword of cellular senescence, including irreversible proliferation arrest and tissue-dependent cancer, and seems to be suitable for further validation and confirmatory studies.
Ethnic, racial and regional inequalities in access to COVID-19 vaccine, testing and hospitalization: Implications for eradication of the pandemic
Authors: Ahlberg Beth Maina , Bradby Hannah
Published: August 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has made visible inequalities as exemplified by unequal access to COVID-19 vaccine across and within countries; inequalities that are also apparent in rates of testing, disease, hospitalization and death from COVID-19 along class, ethnic and racial lines. For a global pandemic such as the COVID-19 to be effectively addressed, there is a need to reflect on the entrenched and structural inequalities within and between countries. While many countries in the global north have acquired more vaccines than they may need, in the global south many have very limited access. While countries in the global north had largely vaccinated their populations by 2022, those in the global south may not even complete vaccinating 70% of their population to enable them reach the so-called herd immunity by 2024. Even in the global north where vaccines are available, ethnic, racialized and poor working classes are disproportionately affected in terms of disproportionately low rates of infection and death. This paper explores the socio-economic and political structural factors that have created and maintain these disparities. In particular we sketch the role of neoliberal developments in deregulating and financializing the system, vaccine hoarding, patent protection and how this contributes to maintaining and widening disparities in access to COVID-19 vaccine and medication.
Grizzlies and gazelles: Duty factor is an effective measure for categorizing running style in English Premier League soccer players
Authors: Hanley Brian , Tucker Catherine B. , Gallagher Liam , Parelkar Parag , Thomas Liam , Crespo Rubén , Price Rob J.
Published: August 2022

English Premier League soccer players run at multiple speeds throughout a game. The aim of this study was to assess how well the duty factor, a dimensionless ratio based on temporal variables, described running styles in professional soccer players. A total of 25 players ran on an instrumented treadmill at 12, 16, and 20 km/h. Spatiotemporal and ground reaction force data were recorded for 30 s at each speed; video data (500 Hz) were collected to determine footstrike patterns. In addition to correlation analysis amongst the 25 players, two groups (both N = 9) of high and low duty factors were compared. The duty factor was negatively correlated with peak vertical force, center of mass (CM) vertical displacement, and leg stiffness (kleg) at all speeds (r ≥ −0.51, p ≤ 0.009). The low duty factor group had shorter contact times, longer flight times, higher peak vertical forces, greater CM vertical displacement, and higher kleg (p < 0.01). Among the high DF group players, eight were rearfoot strikers at all speeds, compared with three in the low group. The duty factor is an effective measure for categorizing soccer players as being on a continuum from terrestrial (high duty factor) to aerial (low duty factor) running styles, which we metaphorically refer to as “grizzlies” and “gazelles,” respectively. Because the duty factor distinguishes running style, there are implications for the training regimens of grizzlies and gazelles in soccer, and exercises to improve performance should be developed based on the biomechanical advantages of each spontaneous running style.
The effectiveness of percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy combined with external lumbar drainage in the treatment of intervertebral infections
Authors: Huang Qun , Gu Qi , Song Jincheng , Yan Fei , Lin XiaoLong
Published: August 2022

Objective

To analyze the effect of percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy in treating lumbar intervertebral infections.

Methods

A total of 13 patients with lumbar intervertebral infections who underwent percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy combined with external drainage between November 2016 and December 2019 were enrolled in the present study. After the operation, sensitive antibiotics were used based on the results of the bacterial culture. If no pathogens were detected in the biopsy culture of the infected tissues, empirical antibiotics were administrated to these patients. The clinical efficacy was evaluated by using a visual analog scale (VAS), Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and standard Macnab's evaluation. Postoperative computed tomography (CT) and MRI were also used to evaluate clinical efficacy.

Results

The follow-up time was 10–18 months, and the average time was (13.69 ± 2.63) months. Causative bacteria were isolated in 7 of 13 infected tissue biopsy cultures. Systemic antibiotics and anti-tuberculous chemotherapy were administered according to sensitivity studies for identified. There were no pathogens isolated from the other six patients. Empiric antibiotics were administrated in these patients. One week after the operation, WBC, a fractional fraction of medium granulocytes, ESR and CRP were significantly lower compared to before the operation (all P < 0.05). At the last follow-up visit, the above-mentioned markers were all within normal range, which differed compared to the pre-operative data (P < 0.05). The VAS and ODI of the patients at 1 week and 3 months after operation were significantly lower compared to preoperative data (all P < 0.05). During the last follow-up visit, seven patients were excellent, five were good, and one was poor according to standard Macnab's evaluation. No serious complications were recorded.

Conclusions

Percutaneous lumbar discectomy combined with external drainage resulted as an effective method for treating lumbar intervertebral infections and was associated with fewer injuries, less pain, low cost, and low recurrence rate.
Non-invasive cancer detection in canine urine through Caenorhabditis elegans chemotaxis
Authors: Namgong Chan , Kim Jong Hyuk , Lee Myon Hee , Midkiff Daniel
Published: August 2022

Cancer is the leading cause of death in companion animals, and successful early treatment has been a challenge in the veterinary field. We have developed the Non-Invasive Cancer Screening (N.C.S.) Study to perform cancer detection through the analysis of canine urine samples. The test makes use of the strong olfactory system of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, which was previously shown to positively respond to urine samples from human cancer patients. We performed a proof-of-concept study to optimize the detection capability in urine samples obtained from dogs with naturally occurring cancers. In this study, we established a scale for identifying the cancer risk based on the magnitude of the chemotaxis index of C. elegans toward a canine urine sample. Through validation, the N.C.S. Study achieved a sensitivity of 85%, showing that it is highly sensitive to indicate the presence of cancer across multiple types of common canine cancers. The test also showed a 90% specificity to cancer samples, indicating a low rate of over-identifying cancer risk. From these results, we have demonstrated the ability to perform low-cost, non-invasive cancer detection in companion animals—a method that can increase the ability to perform cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Transcriptional changes in LMH cells induced by Eimeria tenella rhoptry kinase family protein 17
Authors: Meng Yi-Jing , Mu Bing-Jin , Liu Xiao-Xin , Yu Lin-Mei , Zheng Wen-Bin , Xie Shi-Chen , Gao Wen-Wei , Zhu Xing-Quan , Liu Qing
Published: August 2022

Though a number of Eimeria tenella rhoptry kinase family proteins have been identified, little is known about their molecular functions. In the present study, the gene fragment encoding the matured peptide of E. tenella rhoptry kinase family protein 17 (EtROP17) was used to construct a recombinant vector, followed by transfection into leghorn male hepatoma (LMH) cells. Then, the transcriptional changes in the transfected cells were determined by RNA-seq. The expression of EtROP17 in LMH cells was validated by both Western blot and indirect immunofluorescence analysis. Our analysis showed that EtROP17 altered the expression of 309 genes (114 downregulated genes and 195 upregulated genes) in LMH cells. The quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) results of the selected differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were consistent with the RNA-seq data. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis showed that DEGs were significantly enriched in nine pathways, such as toll-like receptor signaling pathway, ECM-receptor interaction, intestinal immune network for IgA production and focal adhesion. These findings reveal several potential roles of EtROP17, which contribute to understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the host-parasite interplay.
POT1 mutations are frequent and associated with Ki-67 index in canine diffuse large B-cell lymphoma
Authors: Fanelli Antonella , Marconato Laura , Licenziato Luca , Minoli Lucia , Rouquet Nicole , Aresu Luca
Published: August 2022

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) represents one of the most frequent and deadliest neoplasia in dogs worldwide and is characterized by a remarkable degree of clinical heterogeneity, with poor chances to anticipate the outcome. Even if in the last years some recurrently mutated genes have been identified, the genetic origin of canine DLBCL (cDLBCL) is not yet completely understood. The aim of the present study was to assess the prevalence of POT1 mutations in cDLBCL and to elucidate the role of such gene in the pathogenesis of this tumor. Mutations in POT1 were retrieved in 34% of cases, in line with previous reports, but no significant associations with any clinico-pathological variable were identified. Likewise, POT1 mutations are not predictive of worse prognosis. Interestingly, Ki-67 index was significantly higher in dogs harboring POT1 mutations compared to wild-type ones. These results suggest that POT1 mutations may exert their pathogenic role in cDLBCL by promoting cellular proliferation.
A Neural Network Warm-Started Indirect Trajectory Optimization Method
Authors: Shi Jianlin , Wang Jinbo , Su Linfeng , Ma Zhenwei , Chen Hongbo
Published: August 2022

The mission of spacecraft usually faces the problem of an unknown deep space environment, limited long-distance communication and complex environmental dynamics, which brings new challenges to the intelligence level and real-time performance of spacecraft onboard trajectory optimization algorithms. In this paper, the optimal control theory is combined with the neural network. Then, the state–control sample pairs and the state–costate sample pairs obtained from the high-fidelity algorithm are used to train the neural network and further drive the spacecraft to achieve optimal control. The proposed method is used on two typical spacecraft missions to verify the feasibility. First, the system dynamics of the hypersonic reentry problem and fuel-optimal moon landing problem are described and then formulated as highly nonlinear optimal control problems. Furthermore, the analytical solutions of the optimal control variables and the two-point boundary value problem are derived based on Pontryagin’s principle. Subsequently, optimal trajectories are solved offline using the pseudospectral method and shooting methods to form large-scale training datasets. Additionally, the well-trained deep neural network is used to warm-start the indirect shooting method by providing accurate initial costates, and thus the real-time performance of the algorithm can be greatly improved. By mapping the nonlinear functional relationship between the state and the optimal control, the control predictor is further obtained, which provides a backup optimal control variables generation strategy in the case of shooting failure, and ensures the stability and safety of the onboard algorithm. Numerical simulations demonstrate the real-time performance and feasibility of the proposed method.
Design and Test of Longitudinal Axial Flow Staggered Millet Flexible Threshing Device
Authors: Li Xinping , Zhang Wantong , Wang Wenzhe , Huang Yu
Published: August 2022

In order to solve the problems of high millet agglomerates rate, high damage rate, and high undelivered net loss rate in the process of mechanized harvesting of millet, a longitudinal axial flow-staggered flexible threshing device for millet was designed on the basis of the existing threshing device. The “staggered teeth” threshing drum and the micro rotating circular tube concave screen work together to realize the flexible and low damage threshing of millet. The pre experiment was carried out first, and the factors that have a great impact on the millet agglomerates rate, the undelivered net loss rate, and the damage rate were found to be the feeding amount, the rotating speed of the drum, and the threshing clearance. In order to further explore the influence of the interaction between the factors on the millet agglomerates rate, the undelivered net loss rate, and the damage rate, the regression orthogonal rotation combination test was carried out, and after the test, the optimal parameter combination of feeding amount, drum speed, and threshing clearance was determined. The results showed that when the feeding amount was 1.3 kg/s, the rotating speed of the drum was 762 r/min−1 and the concave clearance was 15 mm, the millet agglomerates rate was 2.92%, the high undelivered net loss rate was 1.58%, and the damage rate was 0.37%.
Technology Acceptance, Adoption and Workforce on Australian Cotton Farms
Authors: McDonald Nicole , Fogarty Eloise S. , Cosby Amy , McIlveen Peter
Published: August 2022

The future of work is influenced by the digital transformation of industries, including agriculture. The current study aimed to understand the social drivers of automated technology acceptance and adoption in Australian cotton farms. The study employed a mixed-methods approach to compare those who were (a) currently using automated technology, (b) not currently using automated technology but considering adoption, and (c) not currently using automated technology and no intention to adopt. The research found that social factors and workforce considerations influence growers’ motivation to adopt automated technology on farms. Furthermore, differences on appraisals of perceived usefulness were observed when comparing growers with no intention to adopt automated technology with those considering adoption or who have adopted automated technology. Both perceived usefulness and ease of use barriers are challenges for those considering adoption of automated technology. Support that improves ease of use for those who have adopted automated technology is important for continued appraisals of perceived usefulness of automated technology. Further research to understand antecedents to appraisals of perceived usefulness and ease of use, and how these interact to influence acceptance and automated technology, is required to inform strategic workforce interventions that support the digital transformation of cotton farms.
NADPH Oxidase Isoforms in COPD Patients and Acute Cigarette Smoke-Exposed Mice: Induction of Oxidative Stress and Lung Inflammation
Authors: Wang Xinjing , Murugesan Priya , Zhang Pan , Xu Shiqing , Peng Liang , Wang Chen , Cai Hua
Published: August 2022

Cigarette smoke (CS) is a major risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which represents the third leading cause of death worldwide. CS induces reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, leading to pulmonary inflammation and remodeling. NADPH oxidases (NOXs) represent essential sources of ROS production in the cardiovascular system. Whether and how NOX isoforms are activated in COPD patients and in response to acute cigarette smoke (ACS) remains incompletely understood. In the present study, the expression of NOX isoforms was examined in the lungs of end-stage COPD patients. In addition, mice silenced of NOX1 or NOX4 expression using in vivo RNA interference (RNAi), and NOX2-deficient (NOX2−/y) mice, were exposed to ACS for 1 h using a standard TE-10B smoking machine. In lung sections isolated from COPD patients undergoing lung transplantation, protein expression of NOX1, NOX2, NOX4, or NOX5 was markedly upregulated compared to non-smoking donor controls. Likewise, ACS upregulated protein expression of NOX1, NOX2, and NOX4, production of ROS, inflammatory cell infiltration, and mRNA expression of proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α and KC in the mouse lung. In vivo RNAi knockdown of NOX1 or NOX4 decreased ACS induced ROS production, inflammatory cell influx, and the expression of TNF-α and KC, which were accompanied by inhibition of the NF-κB-COX-2 axis. Although ACS induced ROS production was reduced in the lungs of NOX2−/y mice, inflammatory cell influx and expression of NF-κB/COX-2 were increased. Taken together, our results demonstrate for the first time that NOX isoforms 1, 2, 4 and 5 all remain activated in end-stage COPD patients, while NOX1 and NOX4 mediate oxidative stress and inflammatory responses in response to acute cigarette smoke. Therefore, targeting different isoforms of NOX might be necessary to treat COPD at different stages of the disease, which represents novel mechanistic insights enabling improved management of the devastating disease.
The Prognostic Value of Derivatives-Reactive Oxygen Metabolites (d-ROMs) for Cardiovascular Disease Events and Mortality: A Review
Authors: Pigazzani Filippo , Gorni Davide , Dyar Kenneth A. , Pedrelli Matteo , Kennedy Gwen , Costantino Gabriele , Bruno Agostino , Mackenzie Isla , MacDonald Thomas M. , Tietge Uwe J. F. , George Jacob
Published: August 2022

Oxidative stress participates in the development and exacerbation of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The ability to promptly quantify an imbalance in an individual reductive-oxidative (RedOx) state could improve cardiovascular risk assessment and management. Derivatives-reactive oxygen metabolites (d-ROMs) are an emerging biomarker of oxidative stress quantifiable in minutes through standard biochemical analysers or by a bedside point-of-care test. The current review evaluates available data on the prognostic value of d-ROMs for CVD events and mortality in individuals with known and unknown CVD. Outcome studies involving small and large cohorts were analysed and hazard ratio, risk ratio, odds ratio, and mean differences were used as measures of effect. High d-ROM plasma levels were found to be an independent predictor of CVD events and mortality. Risk begins increasing at d-ROM levels higher than 340 UCARR and rises considerably above 400 UCARR. Conversely, low d-ROM plasma levels are a good negative predictor for CVD events in patients with coronary artery disease and heart failure. Moreover, combining d-ROMs with other relevant biomarkers routinely used in clinical practice might support a more precise cardiovascular risk assessment. We conclude that d-ROMs represent an emerging oxidative-stress-related biomarker with the potential for better risk stratification both in primary and secondary cardiovascular prevention.
Study on the Measurement of the On-Site Overvoltage and Internal Temperature Rise Simulation of the EMU Arrester
Authors: Wang Shenghui , Ou Qi , Lei Shengfeng , Liu Huaqi , Mao Shuaitao , Zhang Qizhe , Liu Jian , Lv Fangcheng
Published: August 2022

In order to analyze the explosion accidents of the CRH5 EMU roof arrester in recent years, an internal temperature measuring platform based on fluorescence fiber was established, and the temperature distribution characteristics under the continuous operating voltage and high-current impulse were analyzed. The test results show that passing section overvoltage and steep impulse overvoltage have higher amplitudes, while high-harmonic overvoltage has a lower amplitude but a longer duration. The maximum temperature rise of the arrester was 5.2 °C under 34 kV for 3 h. The surface temperature of the valve plate column was high in the middle and low on both sides; the maximum temperature difference at different positions was only 2.2 °C. The maximum temperature of the valve plate column rose to 97.6 °C under 105 times of the high-current impulse, and the maximum temperature difference at different positions reached 33.8 °C. Then, the actual overvoltage of the arrester in operation was measured and analyzed statistically, and the arrester simulation model was established. The temperature characteristics of the normal arrester and the arrester with the electric tree were studied under the actual typical overvoltage, and the influence of air velocity on the internal temperature rise was analyzed. The simulation results show that, due to the low amplitude and small current of high-harmonic overvoltage, the internal temperature rise of the normal and defective arresters was very small. Under the effects of passing section overvoltage and steep impulse overvoltage, the internal temperature of the normal arrester can reach 36.57 °C and 241 °C, and the arrester with the electric tree defect can reach 44.75 °C and 536 °C, respectively. The air velocity has little effect on the internal temperature rise of the arrester. Passing section overvoltage and steep impulse overvoltage occur frequently and have an obvious influence on the internal temperature rise of the arrester, so the roof overvoltage of the EMU is an important reason for the arrester burst.
Comparison between Personal Protective Equipment Wearing Protocols to Shorten Time to Treatment in Pre-Hospital Settings
Authors: Lavi Or , Wacht Oren , Menashe Idan , Jaffe Eli , Bitan Yuval
Published: August 2022

Background. Arrival times at the scene and provision of initial emergency treatment have importance in pre-hospital care settings. Donning proper protective equipment by medical personnel, as was needed during the COVID-19 pandemic, prolongs the time between the arrival of medical personnel to a patient and provision of primary medical care. Objective. We examined the effect of a suggested personal protective equipment (PPE) wearing protocol (gown protocol) on shortening pre-hospital treatment times compared to the current coverall protocol. Method. In this prospective simulation-based study, participants were instructed to inject a practice epinephrine syringe into a simulation mannequin after donning either a gown or a coverall PPE kit in the shortest possible time. Participants performed the two protocols in a randomized order. Donning time, physiological measures, and participants’ perceptions were measured after completion of each of the protocols. Results. Donning times and heart rates were significantly lower in the gown protocol compared to the standard coverall protocol. In addition, participants reported that the gown protocol was more comfortable and allowed provision of better medical care. Conclusions. Advantages of using the new protocol included shortening the time until primary medical care can be provided, perceptions of greater comfort, less difficulty in administering medical care, and lower heart rate values.
Study on Failure Mechanism of Mudstone Based on Digital Core and Digital Volume Correlation Method
Authors: Duan Dong , Chen Xiaoyu , Feng Xiaojing , Wang Xin , Sun Jiang
Published: August 2022

In order to study the damage evolution law and failure mechanism of mudstone under different stress states, with the help of high-resolution CT scanning equipment, in situ CT scanning experiments of mudstone under uniaxial compression were carried out. Combined with digital core technology and the digital volume image correlation method, the 3D characterization of meso-structure and the evolution process of localized damage in mudstone were analyzed. The research shows that brittle minerals such as quartz in mudstone often exist in the form of agglomerated strips, resulting in the formation of weak structural planes at the contact surfaces of different minerals. There are a large number of primary intergranular pores near the mineral accumulation zone. With the increase in axial load, the connectivity of pores will gradually increase, cracks will gradually emerge, internal pores will develop abnormally, and rocks will reach the critical state of failure; at this time, the throat number and coordination number of pores increase obviously. There was no obvious difference found in the distribution of mineral particles of different sizes, and the slip between mineral zones was mainly dominated by small particles. The accumulated mineral zone was able to easily form a weak surface, and the aggregated mineral zone under loading was easily able to produce local deformation, which is related to the mechanical properties of the mineral zone and its surrounding rock matrix, with the rock failure easily occurring along the junction of the two minerals. The displacement in the polymeric mineral zone was small, the deformation displacement of the rock skeleton dominated by clay minerals near the quartz mineral zone was larger, and the stronger quartz minerals restrained the rock skeleton deformation in the region.
SRP: A Microscopic Look at the Composition Mechanism of Website Fingerprinting
Authors: Chen Yongxin , Wang Yongjun , Yang Luming
Published: August 2022

Tor serves better at protecting users’ privacy than other anonymous communication tools. Even though it is resistant to deep packet inspection, Tor can be de-anonymized by the website fingerprinting (WF) attack, which aims to monitor the website users are browsing. WF attacks based on deep learning perform better than those using manually designed features and traditional machine learning. However, a deep learning model is data-hungry when simulating the mapping relations of traffic and the website it belongs to, which may not be practical in reality. In this paper, we focus on investigating the composition mechanism of website fingerprinting and try to solve data shortage with bionic traffic traces. More precisely, we propose a new concept called the send-and-receive pair (SRP) to deconstruct traffic traces and design SRP-based cumulative features. We further reconstruct and generate bionic traces (BionicT) based on the rearranged SRPs. The results show that our bionic traces can improve the performance of the state-of-the-artdeep-learning-based Var-CNN. The increment in accuracy reaches up to 50% in the five-shot setting, much more effective than the data augmentation method HDA. In the 15/20-shot setting, our method even defeated TF with more than 95% accuracy in closed-world scenarios and an F1-score of over 90% in open-world scenarios. Moreover, expensive experiments show that our method can enhance the deep learning model’s ability to combat concept drift. Overall, the SRP can serve as an effective tool for analyzing and describing website traffic traces.
Development of Digital Competence for Research
Authors: Sánchez Adrián , Woo Rosa María , Salas Roberto Carlos , López Francisco , Narvaez Esther Guadalupe , Lagunes Agustín , Torres Carlos Arturo
Published: August 2022

Several kinds of research conclude that the level of digital competence of students is mainly oriented to their daily activities. Therefore, we present the current paper which seeks to determine the impact of implementing a blended learning course designed to improve digital competence for research (DCR) among a group of undergraduate engineering students. With this approach, a quasi-experimental explanatory methodology with a causal-comparative scope was applied. For this reason, the results were analyzed before and after applying a specially designed course to the experimental group, comparing it with a passive control group by collecting data using three previously validated instruments. For data analysis, students’ t-tests and two-way ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) were used, estimating the effects with Cohen’s study. Given the results, there was a statistically significant improvement (p ≤ 0.05) in their skills and attitudes, but not in their knowledge, obtaining a significant effect size only in the procedural dimension (f = 0.41 y η2 = 0.142). Therefore, the implementation of the course used in the blended learning modality is considered to significantly improve the DCR of a group of undergraduate engineering students, although the results should be evaluated with due reservations.
Electric Field-Driven Air Purification Filter for High Efficiency Removal of PM2.5 and SO2: Local Electric Field Induction and External Electric Field Enhancement
Authors: Li Jian , Sun Qingyun , Ping Zhongxin , Gao Yihong , Chen Peiyu , Huang Fangzhi
Published: August 2022

Removal rate and durability are the two most important parameters of an ideal air purification filter to remove inhalable particles and toxic gases. Here, based on the interaction of a local electric field and an external electric field, a novel coaxial core–shell CuO@NH2-MIL-53(Al) nanowire array was synthesized on a rigid copper net, which was used to remove PM2.5 and SO2 simultaneously. The removal rates of PM2.5 by the filter with and without an external electric field can reach 98.72% and 44.41%, respectively, and the adsorption capacity of SO2 can reach 4.87 mol/m2. After repeated filtration and cleaning for 10 cycles, the air pollution removal efficiency can be kept almost stable.
WildTrack: An IoT System for Tracking Passive-RFID Microchipped Wildlife for Ecology Research
Authors: Ross Robert , Anderson Ben , Bienvenu Brian , Scicluna Emily L. , Robert Kylie A.
Published: August 2022

Wildlife tracking is used to acquire information on the movement, behaviour and survival of animals in their natural habitat for a wide range of ecological questions. However, tracking and monitoring free-ranging animals in the field is typically labour-intensive and particularly difficult in species that are small, cryptic, or hard to re-capture. In this paper, we describe and evaluate an Internet-of-Things (IoT)-based tracking system which automatically logs detected passive RFID tags and uploads them to the cloud. This system was successfully evaluated with 90 sensor modules deployed in a 30 ha wildlife sanctuary to monitor a small nocturnal mammal of less than 20 g in body size.
Multi-Functional Potassium Ion Assists Ammonium Vanadium Oxide Cathode for High-Performance Aqueous Zinc-Ion Batteries
Authors: He Dan , Sun Tianjiang , Wang Qiaoran , Ma Tao , Zheng Shibing , Tao Zhanliang , Liang Jing
Published: August 2022

Ammonium vanadium oxide (NH4V4O10) is a promising layered cathode for aqueous zinc-ion batteries owing to its high specific capacity (>300 mA h g−1). However, the structural instability causes serious cycling degradation through irreversible insertion/extraction of NH4+. Herein, a new potassium ammonium vanadate Kx(NH4)1−xV4O10 (named KNVO) is successfully synthesized by a one-step hydrothermal method. The inserted of K+ can act as structural pillars, connect the adjacent layers closer and partially reduce the de-insertion of NH4+. Due to the multi-functional of K+, the prepared KNVO presents a high specific discharge capacity of 432 mA h g−1 at a current density of 0.4 A g−1, long cycle stability (2000 cycles, 94.2%) as well as impressive rate performance (200 mA h g−1 at 8 A g−1).
Application of 2,4-Epibrassinolide Improves Drought Tolerance in Tobacco through Physiological and Biochemical Mechanisms
Authors: Khan Rayyan , Ma Xinghua , Hussain Quaid , Asim Muhammad , Iqbal Anas , Ren Xiaochun , Shah Shahen , Chen Keling , Shi Yi
Published: August 2022

Drought stress is a major abiotic stress that hinders plant growth and development. Brassinosteroids (BR), including 2,4-epibrassinolide (EBR), play important roles in plant growth, development, and responses to abiotic stresses, including drought stress. This work investigates exogenous EBR application roles in improving drought tolerance in tobacco. Tobacco plants were divided into three groups: WW (well-watered), DS (drought stress), and DSB (drought stress + 0.05 mM EBR). The results revealed that DS decreased the leaf thickness (LT), whereas EBR application upregulated genes related to cell expansion, which were induced by the BR (DWF4, HERK2, and BZR1) and IAA (ARF9, ARF6, PIN1, SAUR19, and ABP1) signaling pathway. This promoted LT by 28%, increasing plant adaptation. Furthermore, EBR application improved SOD (22%), POD (11%), and CAT (5%) enzyme activities and their related genes expression (FeSOD, POD, and CAT) along with a higher accumulation of osmoregulatory substances such as proline (29%) and soluble sugars (14%) under DS and conferred drought tolerance. Finally, EBR application augmented the auxin (IAA) (21%) and brassinolide (131%) contents and upregulated genes related to drought tolerance induced by the BR (BRL3 and BZR2) and IAA (YUCCA6, SAUR32, and IAA26) signaling pathways. These results suggest that it could play an important role in improving mechanisms of drought tolerance in tobacco.
Effect of Human Platelet Lysate as Cultivation Nutrient Supplement on Human Natal Dental Pulp Stem Cell In Vitro Expansion
Authors: Pilbauerova Nela , Schmidt Jan , Suchankova Kleplova Tereza , Soukup Tomas , Suchanek Jakub
Published: August 2022

Despite several scientific or ethical issues, fetal bovine serum (FBS) remains the standard nutrient supplement in the mesenchymal stem cell cultivation medium. Cell amplification plays an important role in human stem cell therapies. Increasing interest in this field has supported attempts to find suitable human alternatives to FBS for in vitro cell propagation. Human platelet lysate (hPL) has recently been determined as one of them. Our study aimed to evaluate the influence of 2% hPL in the growth medium for in vitro expansion of human natal dental pulp stem cells (hNDP-SCs). The effect was determined on proliferation rate, viability, phenotype profile, expression of several markers, relative telomere length change, and differentiation potential of four lineages of hNDP-SCs. As a control, hNDP-SCs were simultaneously cultivated in 2% FBS. hNDP-SCs cultivated in hPL showed a statistically significantly higher proliferation rate in initial passages. We did not observe a statistically significant effect on mesenchymal stem cell marker (CD29, CD44, CD73, CD90) or stromal-associated marker (CD13, CD166) expression. The cell viability, relative telomere length, or multipotency remained unaffected in hNDP-SCs cultivated in hPL-medium. In conclusion, hPL produced under controlled and standardized conditions is an efficient serum supplement for in vitro expansion of hNDP-SCs.
The Effect of Fish Oil-Based Foods on Lipid and Oxidative Status Parameters in Police Dogs
Authors: Ravić Branko , Debeljak-Martacić Jasmina , Pokimica Biljana , Vidović Nevena , Ranković Slavica , Glibetić Marija , Stepanović Predrag , Popović Tamara
Published: August 2022

The synthesis, degradation, and reconstruction of the cell membrane as a metabolic pathway of phospholipids is a constant and dynamic process. Fatty acids as bioactive lipid components of plasma and erythrocyte phospholipids as structural lipids have biological roles in the integrity of cell membranes. Fatty acids, depending on the chain length, the degree of saturation, and the synthesis pathways, can alleviate inflammation and oxidative stress caused by excessive exercise. Considering that changing food intake or diet can influence fatty acid phospholipid metabolism, our study aimed to determine the potential benefits of fish-based diets in working (police) dogs undergoing intensive training concerning bioactive lipids such as fatty acids, phospholipids of plasma, and erythrocytes. Fatty acid esters’ composition of plasma and erythrocyte phospholipids as a bioactive lipids, in addition to markers of oxidative stress and metabolic parameters, were analysed by GC chromatography. The food was well tolerated by all dogs, and the compliance to the diet was high throughout the study. After the treatment with fish-based food, blood glucose, total, and LDL cholesterol levels were significantly reduced, indicating positive biochemical profiles of dogs. Correlations of fatty acid phospholipid compositions between plasma and erythrocytes have shown that both plasma and erythrocytes could represent markers of omega-3 eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acid intake levels in dogs. Morover, fish-based food supplementation caused a significant reduction in lipid peroxidation markers. The enrichment of dogs’ diets with marine fish could improve oxidative status and improve roles and status of bioactive lipids, such as membrane phospholipids and fatty acids, as its components in plasma and erythrocytes in police dogs exposed to intensive exercise.
3-Chloro-3-methyl-2,6-diarylpiperidin-4-ones as Anti-Cancer Agents: Synthesis, Biological Evaluation, Molecular Docking, and In Silico ADMET Prediction
Authors: Ramalingam Arulraj , Mustafa Nurulhuda , Chng Wee Joo , Medimagh Mouna , Sambandam Sivakumar , Issaoui Noureddine
Published: August 2022

Piperidine pharmacophore-containing compounds have demonstrated therapeutic efficacy against a range of diseases and are now being investigated in cancer. A series of 3-chloro-3-methyl-2,6-diarylpiperidin-4-ones, compounds (I–V) were designed and synthesized for their evaluation as a potential anti-cancer agent. Compounds II and IV reduced the growth of numerous hematological cancer cell lines while simultaneously increasing the mRNA expression of apoptosis-promoting genes, p53 and Bax. Molecular docking analyses confirmed that compounds can bind to 6FS1, 6FSO (myeloma), 6TJU (leukemia), 5N21, and 1OLL (NKTL). Computational ADMET research confirmed the essential physicochemical, pharmacokinetic, and drug-like characteristics of compounds (I–V). The results revealed that these compounds interact efficiently with active site residues and that compounds (II) and (V) can be further evaluated as potential therapeutic candidates.
Chemopreventive Effects of Selenium and Selenocompounds in the Treatment of Lymphoma
Authors: Golla Upendarrao , Dallavalasa Siva
Published: August 2022

Lymphomas have been increasing at an alarming rate globally and causing deaths worldwide due to the lack of effective therapies. Among different pharmacological agents, selenium (Se) and selenium-related compounds are widely tested and have gained interest as anticancer agents due to their selectivity to cancer and high efficacy for lymphoma treatment over recent decades. Se is a trace non-metallic element identified as an essential micronutrient that mediates a range of biological functions after incorporation into selenoproteins (SePs), and thus affects the overall quality of human health. Specifically, low levels of Se in serum have been linked with aberrant immune functions, cancer, inflammatory diseases, and predictive of worse outcomes in patients with hematological malignancies including lymphoma. Over the past few years, a number of promising selenium compounds (SeCs) have been developed to mimic and alter the functions of SePs to achieve pharmacological interventions such as anticancer, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities with minimal adverse effects by suitable chemical substitution. Here, we have reviewed various lymphoma types and their molecular characterization, along with emphasis on the potential role of Se and SeCs as anti-cancer agents for lymphoma treatment. In addition, we have discussed various pros and cons associated with the usage of Se/SeCs for selectively targeting cancers including lymphomas.
Anabolic Effects of a Novel Simvastatin Derivative on Treating Rat Bone Defects
Authors: Lee Tien-Ching , Chen Hui-Ting , Tai I-Chun , Kao Li-Ting , Hung Ming-Hsin , Chen Chung-Hwan , Fu Yin-Chih , Wang Yan-Hsiung , Kao Chih-Ming , Chang Je-Ken , Ho Mei-Ling
Published: August 2022

Large bone defects may develop fracture nonunion, leading to disability and psychosocial burdens. Bone grafting with anabolic agents is a good autografting alternative. Simvastatin, as a cholesterol-lowering agent worldwide, is proven to enhance osteogenesis. Considering its dose-dependent adverse effects, we developed a simvastatin derivative, named KMUHC-01, which has bone anabolic capacity and lower cytotoxicity than simvastatin. We hypothesize that KMUHC-01 could help bone formation in bone-defect animal models. We used rat models of critical calvarial and long-bone defects to evaluate the effects of KMUHC-01 and simvastatin on biological changes at the bone defect through histology, immunohistology, and mechanical testing using three-point bending and evaluated the new bone formation microstructure through microcomputed tomography analysis. The newly formed bone microstructure at the calvarial defect site showed a significantly improved trabecular bone volume in the KMUHC-01 1-μM group compared with that in the control and simvastatin groups. The biomechanical study revealed a significantly increased maximal strength in the KMUHC-01 1-μM group compared with that in the control group. KUMHC-01, as a simvastatin derivative, showed a great anabolic effect in promoting bone defect healing. However, further studies will be conducted to prove the bioavailability and bone-forming efficacy of KMUHC-01 via systemic administration.
Assessment of Preoperative TSH Serum Level and Thyroid Cancer Occurrence in Patients with AUS/FLUS Thyroid Nodule Diagnosis
Authors: Kaliszewski Krzysztof , Diakowska Dorota , Rzeszutko Marta , Nowak Łukasz , Wojtczak Beata , Sutkowski Krzysztof , Ludwig Maksymilian , Ludwig Bartłomiej , Mikuła Agnieszka , Greniuk Maria , Tokarczyk Urszula , Rudnicki Jerzy
Published: August 2022

Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is a growth factor associated with the initiation and progression of well-differentiated thyroid cancer (WDTC). Atypia of undetermined significance and follicular lesion of undetermined significance (AUS/FLUS) are the most uncertain cytological diagnoses of thyroid nodules. The aim of the study was to determine the association of histopathological diagnosis with preoperative serum TSH levels in patients with AUS/FLUS thyroid nodule diagnosis. Among 5028 individuals with thyroid nodules, 342 (6.8%) with AUS/FLUS diagnoses were analyzed. The frequency of all histopathology diagnoses was assessed for associations with preoperative serum TSH levels. The median TSH concentration was significantly higher in patients with AUS/FLUS diagnosis and histopathology of WDTC than in patients with the same cytology result and histopathology of a benign tumor (p < 0.0001). The diagnostic potential of serum TSH level was determined to evaluate risk of malignancy in patients with thyroid nodules classified into the Bethesda III category. ROC analysis showed the TSH concentration at a cutoff point of 2.5 mIU/L to be an acceptable prognostic factor for WDTC. For this optimal cutoff point, the AUC was 0.877, the sensitivity was 0.830, and the specificity was 0.902. Preoperative serum TSH levels in patients with AUS/FLUS thyroid tumor diagnosis should be taken into consideration in the decision-making process and clinical management.
IL-10 Gene Rs1800871, Rs1800872, and Rs1800896 Polymorphisms and IL-10 Serum Levels Association with Pituitary Adenoma
Authors: Palivonaite Migle , Gedvilaite Greta , Glebauskiene Brigita , Kriauciuniene Loresa , Rovite Vita , Liutkeviciene Rasa
Published: August 2022

The aim and objective of this study is to determine the association between the rs1800871, rs1800872, and rs1800896 polymorphisms of the gene IL-10 and the serum levels of IL-10 in patients with pituitary adenoma. Methods: Data from 106 patients with pituitary adenoma and 192 control patients were used for the study. DNA was isolated from peripheral blood using the salt precipitation method. The samples were genotyped in real-time using the polymerase chain reaction method. IL-10 serum levels were evaluated using an ELISA kit. The data obtained were systematized using the computer program IBM SPSS Statistics. Results: The AG genotype of IL-10 rs1800871 was statistically significantly lower in the inactive PA group than in the control group (22.7% vs. 40.6%, p = 0.027). The TG genotype of IL-10 rs1800872 was also statistically significantly lower in the inactive PA group than in the control group (22.7% vs. 40.6%, p = 0.027). A binary logistic regression analysis of the polymorphisms in the IL-10 gene in PA and control groups based on the pituitary adenoma activity showed that the AG genotype of IL-10 rs1800871 increased the chance of inactive PA by 2.2-fold in codominant (OR: 2.272, CI: 1.048–4.925, p = 0.038) and overdominant (OR: 2.326, CI: 1.086–4.982, p = 0.030) models. Moreover, the TG genotype of IL-10 rs1800872 increased the probability of inactive PA by 2.2-fold in codominant (OR: 2.272, CI: 1.048–4.925, p = 0.038) and overdominant (OR: 2.326, CI: 1.086–4.982, p = 0.030) models. The association of the IL-10 polymorphisms with PA invasiveness and recurrence in PA and control groups did not yield statistically significant results. Conclusions: IL-10 rs1800871 and IL-10 rs1800872 may be associated with the development of inactive PA.