bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methionine Deprivation Reveals the Pivotal Roles of Cell Cycle Progression in Ferroptosis That Is Induced by Cysteine Starvation
Authors: Homma Takujiro , Kobayashi Sho , Fujii Junichi
Published: May 2022

Ferroptosis, a type of iron-dependent necrotic cell death, is triggered by the accumulation of excessive lipid peroxides in cells. Glutathione (GSH), a tripeptide redox molecule that contains a cysteine (Cys) unit in the center, plays a pivotal role in protection against ferroptosis. When the transsulfuration pathway is activated, the sulfur atom of methionine (Met) is utilized to generate Cys, which can then suppress Cys-starvation-induced ferroptosis. In the current study, we cultured HeLa cells in Met- and/or cystine (an oxidized Cys dimer)- deprived medium and investigated the roles of Met in ferroptosis execution. The results indicate that, in the absence of cystine or Met, ferroptosis or cell cycle arrest, respectively, occurred. Contrary to our expectations, however, the simultaneous deprivation of both Met and cystine failed to induce ferroptosis, although the intracellular levels of Cys and GSH were maintained at low levels. Supplementation with S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), a methyl group donor that is produced during the metabolism of Met, caused the cell cycle progression to resume and lipid peroxidation and the subsequent induction of ferroptosis was also restored under conditions of Met/cystine double deprivation. DNA methylation appeared to be involved in the resumption in the SAM-mediated cell cycle because its downstream metabolite S-adenosylhomocysteine failed to cause either cell cycle progression or ferroptosis to be induced. Taken together, our results suggest that elevated lipid peroxidation products that are produced during cell cycle progression are involved in the execution of ferroptosis under conditions of Cys starvation.
Deconstructing Sox2 Function in Brain Development and Disease
Authors: Mercurio Sara , Serra Linda , Pagin Miriam , Nicolis Silvia K.
Published: May 2022

SOX2 is a transcription factor conserved throughout vertebrate evolution, whose expression marks the central nervous system from the earliest developmental stages. In humans, SOX2 mutation leads to a spectrum of CNS defects, including vision and hippocampus impairments, intellectual disability, and motor control problems. Here, we review how conditional Sox2 knockout (cKO) in mouse with different Cre recombinases leads to very diverse phenotypes in different regions of the developing and postnatal brain. Surprisingly, despite the widespread expression of Sox2 in neural stem/progenitor cells of the developing neural tube, some regions (hippocampus, ventral forebrain) appear much more vulnerable than others to Sox2 deletion. Furthermore, the stage of Sox2 deletion is also a critical determinant of the resulting defects, pointing to a stage-specificity of SOX2 function. Finally, cKOs illuminate the importance of SOX2 function in different cell types according to the different affected brain regions (neural precursors, GABAergic interneurons, glutamatergic projection neurons, Bergmann glia). We also review human genetics data regarding the brain defects identified in patients carrying mutations within human SOX2 and examine the parallels with mouse mutants. Functional genomics approaches have started to identify SOX2 molecular targets, and their relevance for SOX2 function in brain development and disease will be discussed.
Loss of Neural Automaticity Contributes to Slower Walking in COPD Patients
Authors: Hassan S. Ahmed , Bonetti Leandro Viçosa , Kasawara Karina Tamy , Stanbrook Matthew B. , Rozenberg Dmitry , Reid W. Darlene
Published: May 2022

The physical impairments (e.g., slower walking speed) in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have been attributed to peripheral characteristics (e.g., muscle atrophy). However, cognitive impairment may compromise motor control including walking automaticity. The objective of this study was to investigate PFC neural activity, evaluated using changes in oxygenated hemoglobin (ΔO2Hb), during preferred paced walking (PPW) in COPD patients and age-matched controls. The ΔO2Hb from the left and right dorsolateral PFC was measured using functional near-infrared spectroscopy. Fifteen COPD patients (age: 71 ± 8) and twenty age-matched controls (69 ± 7 years) participated. Two-way mixed ANOVA demonstrated that O2Hb in both groups decreased during PPW from the start (quintile 1; Q1) to the end (quintile 5; Q5) in the left dorsolateral and medial PFC. Q1 was comprised of the data during the first 20% of the task, while Q5 included data collected in the last 20% of the task duration. PPW duration ranged between 30.0 and 61.4 s in the control group and between 28.6 and 73.0 s in COPD patients. COPD patients demonstrated a higher O2Hb in Q5 compared to the negative O2Hb in controls in the right medial and dorsolateral PFC during PPW. PPW velocity was lower in COPD patients compared to controls (1.02 ± 0.22 vs. 1.22 ± 0.14 m/s, p = 0.005). Healthy older controls exhibited automaticity during walking unlike patients with COPD. The lesser decrease in O2Hb in COPD patients may be attributed to increased executive demands or affect-related cues (e.g., pain or dyspnea) during walking.
DEAD/H-Box Helicases in Immunity, Inflammation, Cell Differentiation, and Cell Death and Disease
Authors: Samir Parimal , Kanneganti Thirumala-Devi
Published: May 2022

DEAD/H-box proteins are the largest family of RNA helicases in mammalian genomes, and they are present in all kingdoms of life. Since their discovery in the late 1980s, DEAD/H-box family proteins have been a major focus of study. They have been found to play central roles in RNA metabolism, gene expression, signal transduction, programmed cell death, and the immune response to bacterial and viral infections. Aberrant functions of DEAD/H-box proteins have been implicated in a wide range of human diseases that include cancer, neurodegeneration, and inherited genetic disorders. In this review, we provide a historical context and discuss the molecular functions of DEAD/H-box proteins, highlighting the recent discoveries linking their dysregulation to human diseases. We will also discuss the state of knowledge regarding two specific DEAD/H-box proteins that have critical roles in immune responses and programmed cell death, DDX3X and DDX58, also known as RIG-I. Given their importance in homeostasis and disease, an improved understanding of DEAD/H-box protein biology and protein–protein interactions will be critical for informing strategies to counteract the pathogenesis associated with several human diseases.
Modulation of Dopamine Receptors on Osteoblasts as a Possible Therapeutic Strategy for Inducing Bone Formation in Arthritis
Authors: Schwendich Elena , Salinas Tejedor Laura , Schmitz Gernot , Rickert Markus , Steinmeyer Jürgen , Rehart Stefan , Tsiami Styliani , Braun Jürgen , Baraliakos Xenofon , Reinders Jörg , Neumann Elena , Müller-Ladner Ulf , Capellino Silvia
Published: May 2022

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is associated with systemic osteoporosis, which leads to severe disability and low quality of life. Current therapies target osteoclasts to reduce bone degradation, but more treatment options would be required to promote bone protection by acting directly on osteoblasts (OB). Recently, the local production of dopamine in inflamed joints of RA has been observed. Thus, in this project, we aimed to determine the implication of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the bone formation process in RA. Dopamine receptors (DR) in the human bone tissue of RA or osteoarthritis (OA) patients were examined by immunohistochemistry. DR in isolated human osteoblasts (OB) was analyzed by flow cytometry, and dopamine content was evaluated by ELISA. Osteoclasts (OC) were differentiated from the PBMCs of healthy controls (HC) and RA patients. Isolated cells were treated with specific dopamine agonists. The effect of dopamine on mineralization was evaluated by Alizarin red staining. Cytokine release in supernatants was measured by ELISA. Osteoclastogenesis was evaluated with TRAP staining. OC markers were analyzed via real-time PCR and bone resorption via staining of resorption pits with toluidine blue. All DR were observed in bone tissue, especially in the bone remodeling area. Isolated OB maintained DR expression, which allowed their study in vitro. Isolated OB expressed tyrosine hydroxylase, the rate-limiting enzyme for dopamine production, and contained dopamine. The activation of D2-like DR significantly increased bone mineralization in RA osteoblasts and increased osteoclastogenesis but did not alter the expression of OC markers nor bone resorption. DR were found in the bone remodeling area of human bone tissue and dopamine can be produced by osteoblasts themselves, thus suggesting a local autocrine/paracrine pathway of dopamine in the bone. D2-like DRs are responsible for bone mineralization in osteoblasts from RA patients without an increase in bone resorption, thus suggesting the D2-like DR pathway as a possible future therapeutic target to counteract bone resorption in arthritis.
Effect of Prenatal Glucocorticoid Exposure on Circadian Rhythm Gene Expression in the Brains of Adult Rat Offspring
Authors: Murray Alyssa , Tharmalingam Sujeenthar , Khurana Sandhya , Lalonde Christine , Nguyen Phong , Tai T. C.
Published: May 2022

Circadian clocks control many vital aspects of physiology from the sleep-wake cycle to metabolism. The circadian clock operates through transcriptional-translational feedback loops. The normal circadian signaling relies on a ‘master clock’, located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), which synchronizes peripheral oscillators. Glucocorticoid receptor (GR) signaling has the ability to reset the phase of peripheral clocks. It has been shown that maternal exposure to glucocorticoids (GCs) can lead to modification of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) function, impact stress-related behaviors, and result in a hypertensive state via GR activation. We previously demonstrated altered circadian rhythm signaling in the adrenal glands of offspring exposed to the synthetic GC, dexamethasone (Dex). Results from the current study show that prenatal exposure to Dex affects circadian rhythm gene expression in a brain region-specific and a sex-specific manner within molecular oscillators of the amygdala, hippocampus, paraventricular nucleus, and prefrontal cortex, as well as the main oscillator in the SCN. Results also show that spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) exhibited dysregulated circadian rhythm gene expression in these same brain regions compared with normotensive Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY), although the pattern of dysregulation was markedly different from that seen in adult offspring prenatally exposed to GCs.
Physical Activity and Exercise Participation among Malaysian Children (Able-Bodied vs. Physical Disability): A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Rosly Maziah Mat
Published: May 2022

Globally, physical activity levels (PAL) among able-bodied and children with a form of disability remain low. This study aims to characterize PAL and identify the demographic variables affecting children from partaking exercises to promote active lifestyles. Methods: The Physical Activity Scale for Individuals with Physical Disabilities questionnaire was used for the study. A total of 140 data responses were collected online or physically via passive snowball recruitment and quantitatively analyzed. Results: Five factors were extracted from the dimensions, consisting of household chores, household maintenance, high intensity exercise training, miscellaneous activities and school-related activities. Able-bodied children were significantly (p = 0.000) more active (median = 15.05, IQR = 13.06) than children with physical disabilities (median = 3.09, IQR = 2.58). The B40 household group reported significantly (p < 0.05, MET < 5.16/week) lower participation in health-beneficial (moderate-vigorous intensity) exercises as recommended by international guidelines. Conclusion: Children with physical disabilities reported significantly lower education achievements and PAL compared to their able-bodied counterpart. The majority of Malaysian children (69.3%) surveyed did not achieve the recommended aerobic exercise prescription.
Evaluating Providers’ Prescription Opioid Instructions to Pediatric Patients
Authors: Tran Denise D. , Brown Patrick C. M. , Murphy Corrin , Ho Diana , Hudson Karen A. , Wilson Anna C. , Feldstein Ewing Sarah W.
Published: May 2022

Receiving an opioid prescription during childhood increases the risk of hazardous prescription opioid (PO) use during emerging adulthood. Instruction on how to safely use POs plays an essential role in pediatric patients’ capacity to utilize as well as to discontinue POs appropriately. This study aimed to evaluate pediatric PO label instructions provided to a large sample of pediatric outpatients. Data were extracted from the electronic healthcare records system identifying pediatric patients who received a PO between 2016 and 2019 from pediatric outpatient medical clinics were affiliated with a northwestern United States medical center and children’s hospital. Pediatric patients (n = 12,613) between 0–17 years old who received a PO during outpatient care were included. Patients with chronic health conditions (e.g., cancer) or who received their PO from an inpatient medical setting were excluded. Patient demographics, medication instructions, associated diagnoses, and other prescription information (e.g., name of medication, dose, and quantity dispensed) were examined using automated text classification. Many label instructions did not include any indication/reason for use (20.8%). Virtually none of the POs (>99%) included instructions for how to reduce/wean off POs, contact information for questions about the POs, and/or instructions around how to dispose of the POs. Efforts are needed to ensure that pediatric PO instructions contain essential elements to improve comprehension of when and how to use POs for pediatric patients.
Inhibition of eNOS Partially Blunts the Beneficial Effects of Nebivolol on Angiotensin II-Induced Signaling in H9c2 Cardiomyoblasts
Authors: Gul Rukhsana , Alsalman Nouf , Alfadda Assim A.
Published: May 2022

We have recently illustrated that nebivolol can inhibit angiotensin II (Ang II)-mediated signaling in cardiomyoblasts; however, to date, the detailed mechanism for the beneficial effects of nebivolol has not been studied. Here, we investigated whether the inhibition of NO bioavailability by blocking eNOS (endothelial nitric oxide synthase) using L-NG-nitroarginine methyl ester (L-NAME) would attenuate nebivolol-mediated favorable effects on Ang II-evoked signaling in H9c2 cardiomyoblasts. Our data reveal that the nebivolol-mediated antagonistic effects on Ang II-induced oxidative stress were retreated by concurrent pretreatment with L-NAME and nebivolol. Similarly, the expressions of pro-inflammatory markers TNF-α and iNOS stimulated by Ang II were not decreased with the combination of nebivolol plus L-NAME. In contrast, the nebivolol-induced reduction in the Ang II-triggered mTORC1 pathway and the mRNA levels of hypertrophic markers ANP, BNP, and β-MHC were not reversed with the addition of L-NAME to nebivolol. In compliance with these data, the inhibition of eNOS by L-N⁵-(1-Iminoethyl) ornithine (LNIO) and its upstream regulator AMP-activated kinase (AMPK) with compound C in the presence of nebivolol showed effects similar to those of the L-NAME plus nebivolol combination on Ang II-mediated signaling. Pretreatment with either compound C plus nebivolol or LNIO plus nebivolol showed similar effects to those of the L-NAME plus nebivolol combination on Ang II-mediated signaling. In conclusion, our data indicate that the rise in NO bioavailability caused by nebivolol via the stimulation of AMPK/eNOS signaling is key for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties but not for its antihypertrophic response upon Ang II stimulation.
Heterologous COVID-19 Booster Vaccination in the Chronic Disorder of Consciousness: A Pilot Study
Authors: Pugliese Maria Elena , Battaglia Riccardo , Raso Maria Girolama , Chiaravalloti Raffaela , Coschignano Francesco , Pagliuso Angela , Bruschetta Roberta , Pugliese Giovanni , Scola Paolo , Tonin Paolo , Cerasa Antonio
Published: May 2022

Significant anti-spike protein receptor-binding domain (S-RBD) antibody responses have been demonstrated in patients with chronic disorder of consciousness (DOC) completing a COVID-19 vaccine regime with BNT162b2 (Pfizer–BioNTech). We now provide further prospective data on the immunogenicity of these patients followed by heterologous booster injection with mRNA-1273 (Moderna). These patients were compared with two different demographically comparable healthcare workers (HCW) groups who underwent homologous booster injection with BNT162b2 vaccine or heterologous booster injection with mRNA-1273. Antibody responses were evaluated at 21 days after the administration of the booster dose of vaccination. Results: No severe adverse reactions were reported after each type of vaccination. Heterologous boosting with mRNA-1273 elicited a higher increase of S-RBD IgG levels than homologous boosting with BNT162b2 both in DOC patients and HCW who had previously received two doses of BNT162b2. No significant difference was detected between DOC and HCW patients who received heterologous boosting. Conclusions: Despite the small sample size, our preliminary results suggest that heterologous boosting with mRNA-1273, following initial vaccination with BNT162b2, is safe and tends to be more immunogenic than homologous boosting, either in fragile people or in healthy controls.
In Situ High-Temperature Tensile Fracture Mechanism of PS-PVD EBCs
Authors: Yang Dongling , Liu Junling , Zhang Jungui , Liang Xinghua , Zhang Xiaofeng
Published: May 2022

Environmental barrier coatings (EBCs) are increasingly being used in the high-temperature sections of gas turbines because of their protective effects on SiC fiber-reinforced SiC ceramic matrix composites (SiCf/SiC CMCs) when subjected to high-temperature water oxygen corrosion. The objective of this study was to investigate the failure behavior of EBCs prepared on SiCf/SiC CMC matrix materials under coupled high-temperature and load conditions. A plasma spray-physical vapor deposition (PS-PVD) method was used to prepare Si/3Al2O3·2SiO2/Yb2SiO5 EBC composite coatings on the surface of SiCf/SiC ceramic matrix composites. In situ scanning electron microscopy was used to study the evolutionary behavior of the coating surface cracks at different temperatures and the failure and fracture mechanism of the coating/substrate when held at 766 °C and subjected to different loading conditions. The results show that no significant crack extension occurred on the coating surface as the temperature of the coated specimen increased from room temperature to 766 °C in the absence of an applied tensile load, indicating that the effect of a single temperature factor on the failure of the specimen was negligible. However, under coupled high-temperature and load conditions, the specimens fractured at a load of 340 N when subjected to 766 °C, indicating that the coated sample is more likely to fail when subjected to high-temperature and tensile loading. The step-like fracture exhibits features consistent with the coating fracture and spalling caused by surface cracks extending from the coating surface to the interior. The spalling, large crack formation and step-like shape of the fracture in the coating and the substrate indicate that cracks were generated between the coating and the substrate under the coupled high-temperature and load conditions. The generation and extension of cracks in both parts eventually led to full specimen rupture.
Thermodynamics of Point Defects in Solids and Relation with the Bulk Properties: Recent Results
Authors: Varotsos Panayiotis , Sarlis Nicholas , Skordas Efthimios
Published: May 2022

For several decades, the crucial question has arisen as to whether there exists any direct interconnection between the thermodynamic parameters of point defects in solids with the bulk properties of the solid under investigation. To answer this important question, an interrelation of the defect Gibbs energy gi in solids with bulk properties has been proposed almost half a century ago. Considering that gi corresponds to an isobaric and isothermal process, this interrelation states that, for different processes (defect formation, self-diffusion activation, and heterodiffusion), gi is proportional to the isothermal bulk modulus B and the mean volume per atom Ω, termed cBΩ model. Here, we review several challenging applications of this interrelation that appeared during the last decade (2011–2021), including high pressure diamond anvil measurements, high Tc superconductors, nuclear fuels, and materials for micro-electronics devices, applications of usefulness in Geophysics and Seismology, a problem of major technological interest, search for compositions of better target properties in Cu-Co-Si alloys via machine learning as well as two independent studies on the physical origin of this interrelation that has been further strengthened during the last few years.
Chemical Disorder in 6H-SiC Irradiated with Both He and Fe Ions Followed by 1500 °C Annealing: Electron Energy-Loss Spectroscopy Analysis
Authors: You Guoqiang , Wang Sili , Zhang Haiyun , Li Weihong , Guo Xueli , Ru Shangmin , Li Bingsheng
Published: May 2022

A good understanding of the chemical disorder in silicon carbide (SiC) after ion irradiation is crucial for evaluating structural stability in both semiconductor and nuclear power systems. In this study, 6H-SiC single-crystal was irradiated with 500 keV He and 2.5 MeV Fe ions at room temperature, followed by annealing at 1500 °C for 2 h. The chemical disorders were investigated by electron energy-loss spectroscopy with the transmission electron microscopy at 200 kV. Facetted voids were found in the end region of the damaged layer. Compared with the substrate region, the Si at.% was lower, while the values of C and O at.% were higher, in particular in inner voids. SiCOx (x < 1) bonds at the inner surface of the voids were detected. The energy losses of Si, C edges shifted to be lower in the damaged layer. The possible reason is discussed, and the research results will be used for understanding the ion irradiation-induced damage in SiC.
Conformation-Dependent Electron Donation of Nido-Carborane Substituents and Its Influence on Phosphorescence of Tris(2,2′-bipyridyl)ruthenium(II) Complex
Authors: Uemura Kyoya , Tanaka Kazuo , Chujo Yoshiki
Published: May 2022

In this work, we report the synthesis of the nido-carborane-substituted ruthenium complexes and the substituent effects of nido-carboranes on the optical properties. Initially, from the optical measurements, it is shown that deep-red phosphorescence was obtained from the synthesized molecule, and the phosphorescent quantum yields were significantly improved by loading onto a polyethylene glycol film. This result represents that nido-carborane can work as a strong electron donor and should be an effective unit for enhancing the solid-state phosphorescence of ruthenium complexes. Further, it is suggested that the electron-donating properties of the nido-carborane units and subsequently the optical properties can be tuned by controlling the conformation of the nido-carborane units with the steric substituents. We demonstrate in this study the potential of nido-carborane as a building block for constructing optical materials as well as fundamental information regarding electronic interactions with π-conjugated systems.
Newly Diagnosed Multifocal GBM: A Monocentric Experience and Literature Review
Authors: Baro Valentina , Cerretti Giulia , Todoverto Michela , Della Puppa Alessandro , Chioffi Franco , Volpin Francesco , Causin Francesco , Busato Fabio , Fiduccia Pasquale , Landi Andrea , d’Avella Domenico , Zagonel Vittorina , Denaro Luca , Lombardi Giuseppe
Published: May 2022

Glioblastomas with multiple foci at presentation (mGBMs) account for 2–35% of all GBMs. mGBMs have limited existing data and no standardized treatment. This study aims to determine their incidence, demographic and clinical features, outcome, and prognostic factors in terms of overall survival. We performed a monocentric retrospective study, reviewing patients treated at the Istituto Oncologico Veneto. Inclusion criteria were: new diagnosis of GBM and presence of multiple lesions on pre-treatment MRI. ECOG PS was used to evaluate clinical condition, RANO criteria for radiological assessment, and CTCAE v5.0 for treatment-related adverse events. The incidence of newly diagnosed mGBM was 7.2% and the study population consisted of 98 patients. Median age was 63 years, M:F ratio of 1.8:1, and a surgical approach was undertaken in 73 patients (mostly partial resection). MGMT was methylated in 47.5%, and 82 patients received active oncological treatment (65.9% radiotherapy plus temozolomide (RT + TMZ)). The disease control rate with RT + TMZ was 63%. Median OS of the entire study population was 10.2 months (95% CI 6.6–13.8), and median PFS was 4.2 months (95% CI 3.2–5.2). The ECOG PS, the extent of resection, and the RT + TMZ were significant prognostic factors in the univariate analysis for OS, but only the RT + TMZ was a significant independent OS predictor in the multivariate analysis (HR = 3.1, 95% IC 1.3–7.7, p = 0.014). The incidence of mGBM is not rare. RT + TMZ is confirmed to be an independent prognostic factor for survival and a safe and effective treatment. When feasible, RT + TMZ should be considered as a possible first-line treatment. The role of the extent of resection is still unclear.
Hamartochondroma Pleural Lesion Mimicking Liposarcoma: A Case Report
Authors: Drevet Gabrielle , Kovacs Erik , Chalabreysse Lara , Gamondes Delphine , Tronc François
Published: May 2022

Heterogeneous masses developing in the pleural cavity are most often malignant and can pose diagnostic challenges. Fibrous tumors of the pleura, liposarcoma, thymoma or lipoma most frequently affect this anatomic area. Surgical exploration and resection are often mandatory to make the definitive diagnosis. We report the case of a 54-year-old women who presented with an epigastric and right sub costal pain. A complete preoperative workup revealed a large tissular and fatty mass in the right costo-diaphragmatic angle suggestive of liposarcoma. Surgical resection resulted in the surprising diagnosis of hamartochondroma.
Application of DNA Barcoding for Monitoring Madagascar Fish Biodiversity in Coastal Areas
Authors: Jaonalison Henitsoa , Durand Jean-Dominique , Mahafina Jamal , Valade Pierre , Collet Adeline , Cerqueira Frédérique , Ponton Dominique
Published: May 2022

Madagascar is a marine biodiversity hotspot. A recent checklist recorded 1689 marine or transitional water fish species, 2.5% being endemic. To date, studies in this country were mostly focused on adult fishes using morphological-based identification. The early life stages of fishes remain largely understudied. The present work aimed to improve knowledge of fish biodiversity in Madagascar by focusing on post-larval reef fishes and settled juveniles in seagrass meadows of southwest Madagascar by using either species identification keys or DNA barcoding. Up to 119,500 individuals were collected, and 1096 individuals were successfully barcoded. We identified 387 species—85 through their morphology (with 58 unsuccessfully sequenced) and 302 by using CO1 barcoding corresponding to 302 barcode index numbers (BINs). This study added 27 new BINs for the BOLD database, 120 new for Madagascar, but only 159 were assigned a precise species name. By referring to the updated checklist of Madagascar fishes, 10 new species were detected for Madagascar. This number will probably increase when all the barcoded specimens become assigned to precise species names. These preliminary findings stress our poor knowledge of marine fish biodiversity in Madagascar and demonstrate the relevance of DNA barcoding in improving this knowledge.
Avian Haemosporidian Diversity in South Texas: New Lineages and Variation in Prevalence between Sampling Sources and Sites
Authors: Keith Katrina D. , Pistone John P. , Campbell Tyler A. , Voelker Gary A.
Published: May 2022

Avian haemosporidian parasites (Haemoproteus, Leucocytozoon, Plasmodium) in Texas are relatively understudied for such a large geographic area with diverse ecoregions. Our study sites in south Texas, located in two adjacent ecoregions, present the opportunity for investigating patterns and possible causes of infections between habitats, and characterizing the baseline makeup of the avian malaria community. We assessed the avian haemosporidian community using their mtDNA cytb gene in 576 birds, 25.69% of which were infected. The overall detection rate was much higher from blood samples than tissue samples, and the more arid ecoregion had a significantly lower overall prevalence. Findings also revealed significantly lower Plasmodium infections in the more arid ecoregion. We identified 25 novel lineages which included 16 Haemoproteus, 2 Leucocytozoon, and 7 Plasmodium lineages. This information establishes a baseline of prevalence for these ecoregions and provides insight to the disease ecology of resident and migrant birds of this area. We assert that baseline knowledge of this type is necessary for meaningful comparisons to areas of high anthropogenic change, and essential to aiding conservation efforts of birds in future.
Human–Wildlife Conflicts across Landscapes—General Applicability vs. Case Specificity
Authors: Göttert Thomas , Starik Nicole
Published: May 2022

Here, we address the question of if/to what extent human–wildlife conflict (HWC) can be reduced or mitigated by supra-regional or even global approaches, or whether case- and region-specific strategies are necessary. First, we try to shift the perspective from humans towards wildlife and regard modern era (near) extinctions of selected wildlife species as an ultimate expression of HWC. We then reflect on the legitimacy of ecosystem comparisons beyond the borders of biogeographical regions—an important prerequisite for global approaches. In the following, we present two case scenarios that exemplarily illustrate the topic from different perspectives: carnivore–livestock conflicts (classical view, human perspective) and wind turbine-induced mortality of bats (wildlife perspective, rarely regarded as a form of HWC). On this basis, we try to develop a framework that enables a global approach, while adequately considering case- and region-specificity. We think that a globally valid and generally approachable dimension can be defined, as long as there is a natural link: in the present case the established monophyly of the orders Carnivora and Chiroptera, i.e., representatives descending from common ancestors, thus sharing common ecological features. This natural relationship among all representatives of a systematic group (specification of the “wildlife” concept) is key for the development of an overarching strategy that can be adjusted to a specific case.
Psychological Aspect and Quality of Life in Porphyrias: A Review
Authors: Francesca Granata , Nicolli Annamaria , Colaiocco Alessia , Di Pierro Elena , Graziadei Giovanna
Published: May 2022

The World Health Organization (WHO) describes “health” as a state of physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Therefore, a biopsychosocial approach should be considered as an integral part of patients’ management. In this review, we summarize the available data starting from 1986 on the biological, psychological, and social aspects of porphyrias in order to provide a useful tool for clinicians about the missing knowledge within this field. Porphyrias are a group of rare metabolic disorders affecting the heme biosynthetic pathway and can be categorized into hepatic and erythropoietic. Here, a total of 20 articles reporting the psychological and the quality of life (QoL) data of porphyria patients affected by acute hepatic porphyrias (AHPs), Porphyria Cutanea Tarda (PCT), and Erythropoietic Protoporphyria (EPP) were analyzed. These 13 articles include reported quantitative methods using questionnaires, while the reaming articles employed qualitative descriptive approaches through direct interviews with patients by psychology professionals. We conclude that the use of questionnaires limits the complete description of all areas of a patient’s life compared to a direct interview with specialists. However, only a combined use of these methods could be the best approach for the correct disorder management.
Hyperspectral Imaging for Assessment of Initial Graft Function in Human Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Romann Sophie , Wagner Tristan , Katou Shadi , Reuter Stefan , Vogel Thomas , Becker Felix , Morgul Haluk , Houben Philipp , Wahl Philip , Pascher Andreas , Radunz Sonia
Published: May 2022

The aim of our study was to evaluate hyperspectral imaging (HSI) as a rapid, non-ionizing technique for the assessment of organ quality and the prediction of delayed graft function (DGF) in kidney transplantation after static cold storage (SCS, n = 20), as well as hypothermic machine perfusion (HMP, n = 18). HSI assessment of the kidney parenchyma was performed during organ preservation and at 10 and 30 min after reperfusion using the TIVITA® Tissue System (Diaspective Vision GmbH, Am Salzhaff, Germany), calculating oxygen saturation (StO2), near-infrared perfusion index (NIR), tissue haemoglobin index (THI), and tissue water index (TWI). Recipient and donor characteristics were comparable between organ preservation groups. Cold ischemic time was significantly longer in the HMP group (14.1 h [3.6–23.1] vs. 8.7h [2.2–17.0], p = 0.002). The overall presence of DGF was comparable between groups (HMP group n = 10 (55.6%), SCS group n = 10 (50.0%)). Prediction of DGF was possible in SCS and HMP kidneys; StO2 at 10 (50.00 [17.75–76.25] vs. 63.17 [27.00–77.75]%, p = 0.0467) and 30 min (57.63 [18.25–78.25] vs. 65.38 [21.25–83.33]%, p = 0.0323) after reperfusion, as well as NIR at 10 (41.75 [1.0–58.00] vs. 48.63 [12.25–69.50], p = 0.0137) and 30 min (49.63 [8.50–66.75] vs. 55.80 [14.75–73.25], p = 0.0261) after reperfusion were significantly lower in DGF kidneys, independent of the organ preservation method. In conclusion, HSI is a reliable method for intraoperative assessment of renal microperfusion, applicable after organ preservation through SCS and HMP, and predicts the development of DGF.
Sleep Position Detection with a Wireless Audio-Motion Sensor—A Validation Study
Authors: Kukwa Wojciech , Lis Tomasz , Łaba Jonasz , Mitchell Ron B. , Młyńczak Marcel
Published: May 2022

It is well documented that body position significantly affects breathing indices during sleep in patients with obstructive sleep apnea. They usually worsen while changing from a non-supine to a supine position. Therefore, body position should be an accurately measured and credible parameter in all types of sleep studies. The aim of this study was to specify the accuracy of a neck-based monitoring device (Clebre, Olsztyn, Poland) mounted at the suprasternal notch, in determining a supine and non-supine sleeping position, as well as specific body positions during sleep, in comparison to polysomnography (PSG). A sleep study (PSG along with a neck-based audio-motion sensor) was performed on 89 consecutive patients. The accuracy in determining supine and non-supine positions was 96.9%±3.9% and 97.0%±3.6%, respectively. For lateral positions, the accuracy was 98.6%±2% and 97.4%±4.5% for the right and left side, respectively. The prone position was detected with an accuracy of 97.3%±5.6%. The study showed a high accuracy in detecting supine, as well as other gross positions, during sleep based on a sensor attached to the suprasternal notch, compared to the PSG study. We feel that the suprasternal notch is a promising area for placing wireless sleep study devices.
Genotype Triad for HOTAIR rs10783618, LINC-ROR rs1942347, and MALAT1 rs3200401 as Molecular Markers in Systemic Lupus Erythematous
Authors: Ismail Nesreen M. , Toraih Eman A. , Almars Amany I. , Al Ageeli Essam , Fawzy Manal S. , Maher Shymaa Ahmed
Published: May 2022

Accumulating evidence supports the implication of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in autoimmune diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). LncRNA variants could impact the development and/or outcome of the disease with variable diagnostic/prognostic utility in the clinic. We aimed to explore the contribution of HOTAIR (rs10783618), LINC-ROR (rs1942347), and MALAT1 (rs3200401) variants to SLE susceptibility and/or severity in 163 SLE patients and age-/sex-matched controls using real-time TaqMan allelic discrimination PCR. HOTAIR rs10783618*C/C was associated with a 77% increased risk of SLE (OR = 1.77, 95%CI = 1.09–2.87, p = 0.020) under the recessive model. Similarly, MALAT1 rs3200401*T/T carriers were three times more likely to develop SLE (OR = 2.89, 95%CI = 1.42–5.90) under the recessive model. While the rs3200401*T/C genotype was associated with a 49–57% decreased risk of SLE under codominant (OR = 0.51, 95%CI = 0.31–0.82, p < 0.001) and over-dominant (OR = 0.43, 95%CI = 0.27–0.68, p < 0.001) models. LINC-ROR rs1942347*A/A patients were more likely to have a positive family history of SLE. At the same time, HOTAIR rs10783618*C/C was associated with a higher frequency of arthritis (p = 0.001) and the presence of oral ulcers (p = 0.002), while patients carrying rs10783618*T/T genotype were more likely to develop hair loss (p < 0.001), weight loss (p = 0.001), and neurological symptoms (p = 0.003). In conclusion, the studied lncRNAs, HOTAIR, and MALAT1 gene polymorphisms confer susceptibility for SLE, providing a potential theoretical basis for their clinical translation in SLE disease.
Dynamics of Oxidative Stress in Helicobacter pylori-Positive Patients with Atrophic Body Gastritis and Various Stages of Gastric Cancer
Authors: Tsukanov Vladislav Vladimirovich , Smirnova Olga Valentinovna , Kasparov Edward Vilyamovich , Sinyakov Alexander Alexandrovich , Vasyutin Alexander Viktorovich , Tonkikh Julia Leongardovna , Cherepnin Mikhail Alexandrovich
Published: May 2022

Gastric cancer is a global health problem. The pathogenesis of this disease remains unclear. This study included 198 H. pylori (+) men aged 45 to 60 years old. Group A included 63 practically healthy men, group B included 45 men with severe atrophic body gastritis, group C included 37 men with epithelial gastric cancer stages I–II according to TNM, and group D included 54 men with epithelial gastric cancer stages III–IV according to the TNM scale. The content of malondialdehyde (MDA), diene conjugates (DCs), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione S-transferase (GST), and glutathione peroxidase (GPO) was detected using an enzyme immunoassay (ELISA) or spectrophotometric methods in the blood plasma. The concentrations of MDA and DC were increased in the patients of group B compared with group A, and in patients of groups C and D compared with groups A and B. The ratio of MDA/SOD and MDA/CAT was decreased in the patients in group D compared with the patients in group C, and was significantly higher compared with group A. The ratios of MDA/GPO and MDA/GST increased linearly and were at a maximum in groups C and D. Our work determined that indicators of oxidative stress may be the biochemical substrate, which brings together the various stages of the Correa cascade, and may explain disease progression. The dynamics of changes in the content of SOD and CAT in the plasma in patients with gastric cancer may be a target of future investigations.
Implementation and Evaluation of Age-Aware Downlink Scheduling Policies in Push-Based and Pull-Based Communication
Authors: Oğuz Tahir Kerem , Ceran Elif Tuğçe , Uysal Elif , Girici Tolga
Published: May 2022

As communication systems evolve to better cater to the needs of machine-type applications such as remote monitoring and networked control, advanced perspectives are required for the design of link layer protocols. The age of information (AoI) metric has firmly taken its place in the literature as a metric and tool to measure and control the data freshness demands of various applications. AoI measures the timeliness of transferred information from the point of view of the destination. In this study, we experimentally investigate AoI of multiple packet flows on a wireless multi-user link consisting of a transmitter (base station) and several receivers, implemented using software-defined radios (SDRs). We examine the performance of various scheduling policies under push-based and pull-based communication scenarios. For the push-based communication scenario, we implement age-aware scheduling policies from the literature and compare their performance with those of conventional scheduling methods. Then, we investigate the query age of information (QAoI) metric, an adaptation of the AoI concept for pull-based scenarios. We modify the former age-aware policies to propose variants that have a QAoI minimization objective. We share experimental results obtained in a simulation environment as well as on the SDR testbed.
An Experimental Study on the Effectiveness of Students’ Learning in Scientific Courses through Constructive Alignment—A Case Study from an MIS Course
Authors: Zhang Hongfeng , Su Shaodan , Zeng Yumeng , Lam Johnny F. I.
Published: May 2022

This study aimed to explore students’ effectiveness in scientific courses that have adopted the framework of constructive alignment. The researchers conducted an experimental study in the education sector to compare two different teaching models—traditional and following constructive alignment—and used statistical tools to analyse differences in students’ learning effectiveness. The course “Management Information System” (MIS) was specifically chosen to investigate how constructive alignment initiatives used in the course influenced students’ learning effectiveness. Two groups of students were selected as the control group and the experimental group, respectively. In the experimental group, the intended learning outcomes, teaching and learning activities, and assessment tasks were always aligned by the instructor. The learning effectiveness of the two groups was evaluated by the Course Experience Questionnaire Survey and academic grades. After this study, it was found that significant improvement—in terms of students’ learning experience scores and academic grades—was seen in the experimental group compared with the control group. This study has further verified that implementing a constructive alignment template can significantly improve students’ learning effectiveness in scientific courses, hence providing theoretical and practical references for teaching and learning in scientific courses.
Single-Ridge Waveguide Compact and Wideband Hybrid Couplers for X/Ku-Band Applications
Authors: Simoncini Guendalina , Rossi Riccardo , Alimenti Federico , Vincenti Gatti Roberto
Published: May 2022

Hybrid couplers are important devices that combine or divide signals in various microwave applications. Wideband performance, low losses and small size are key features in most modern radar and communication systems. This paper presents a new geometry for single-ridge, air-filled waveguide quadrature hybrid couplers at the X/Ku band on a single layer using multiple pairs of slots cut on a common ridge coupling section. Bandwidth can be progressively extended by increasing the number of slot pairs. Two designs characterized by compact size and state-of-the-art performance are proposed, leading to a fractional bandwidth up to 46.88% and a maximum dimension of 1.18 wavelengths. A tolerance analysis is presented to highlight the design robustness and reliability.
Future Technology Mix—Enhanced Geothermal System (EGS) and Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS)—An Overview of Selected Projects as an Example for Future Investments in Poland
Authors: Sowiżdżał Anna , Starczewska Magdalena , Papiernik Bartosz
Published: May 2022

Rising fuel prices, changes in energy markets, and concern for the environment make it necessary to develop new solutions and technologies. The development of new technologies brings with it the need to take risks associated with unpredictable consequences, technological immaturity, and other issues. However, without these elements, technological development is not possible. In this study, installations related to two different technologies—Enhanced Geothermal System (EGS) and Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS)—are reviewed. An Enhanced Geothermal System is a technology for exploiting the energy stored in hot dry rocks. Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage is an important technology for reducing CO2 emissions. The combination of these two technologies in CO2–EGS systems can bring significant environmental benefits. This paper reviews the most important CCUS and EGS systems in the world to form a baseline for similar, future technology investment in Poland.
High Load Compression Ignition of Wet Ethanol Using a Triple Injection Strategy
Authors: Gainey Brian , Yan Ziming , Gandolfo John , Lawler Benjamin
Published: May 2022

Wet ethanol is a biofuel that can be rapidly integrated into the existing transportation sector infrastructure and have an immediate impact on decarbonization. Compared to conventional hydrocarbon fuels, wet ethanol has unique fuel properties (e.g., short carbon chain, oxygenated, high heat of vaporization, no cool-flame reactivity), which can actually improve the efficiency and engine-out emissions of internal combustion engines while decarbonizing. In this work, wet ethanol 80 (80% ethanol, 20% water by mass) was experimentally studied at high loads under boosted conditions in compression ignition to study the tradeoffs in efficiency and emissions based on boosting and injection strategies. Specifically, this work explores the potential of adding a third, mixing-controlled injection at high loads. The results indicate that adding a third, mixing-controlled injection results in combustion stabilization at high loads, where the peak pressure limit of the engine is a constraint that requires combustion phasing to retard. However, since the heat of vaporization of wet ethanol 80 is ~6% of its lower heating value, evaporation of fuel injected near top dead center imposes a thermodynamic efficiency penalty by absorbing heat from the working fluid at a time in the cycle when adding heat produces net work out. Additionally, the mixing-controlled injection increases NOx emissions. Therefore, the amount of fuel injected in the mixing-controlled injection should be limited to only what is necessary to stabilize combustion. Ultimately, by using wet ethanol 80 in a triple injection strategy, a load of 22 bar IMEPn is achieved with a net fuel conversion efficiency of 42.2%, an engine-out indicated specific emissions of NOx of 1.3 g/kWh, and no measurable particulate matter, while maintaining a peak cylinder pressure below 150 bar.
Tests of Acid Batteries for Hybrid Energy Storage and Buffering System—A Technical Approach
Authors: Maleczek Stanisław , Szczepaniak Marcin , Radek Norbert , Kowalkowski Stanisław , Bogdanowicz Krzysztof A.
Published: May 2022

Many armies around the world showed an increasing interest for the technology of renewable energy sources for military applications. However, to profit fully from solar or wind energy, an energy storage system is needed. In this article, we present an energy storage system based on acid-lead batteries as a component of a modular generation-storage as a model of military “smart camp”. We proposed a technical approach to study four different types of batteries: DEEP CYCLE, AGM, WET and VRLA in laboratory and real conditions typical for military equipment. It was observed that the best performance was observed for AGM battery in terms of the highest cold cracking amperage equal to 1205 A combined with the most compact construction and resistance to varying thermal conditions from −25 °C, 25 °C and 50 °C. Additionally, a 12-month long-term testing in real conditions revealed that AGM and VRLA showed decrease in capacity value maintaining only approx. 80% of initial value.