bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Healthcare Workers' Perceptions and Medically Approved COVID-19 Infection Risk: Understanding the Mental Health Dimension of the Pandemic. A German Hospital Case Study
Authors: Kuhlmann Ellen , Behrens Georg M. N. , Cossmann Anne , Homann Stefanie , Happle Christine , Dopfer-Jablonka Alexandra
Published: May 2022

Introduction

This study analyses how healthcare workers (HCWs) perceived risks, protection and preventive measures during the COVID-19 pandemic in relation to medically approved risks and organizational measures. The aim is to explore “blind spots” of pandemic protection and make mental health needs of HCWs visible.

Methods

We have chosen an “optimal-case” scenario of a high-income country with a well-resourced hospital sector and low HCW infection rate at the organizational level to explore governance gaps in HCW protection. A German multi-method hospital study at Hannover Medical School served as empirical case; document analysis, expert information and survey data (n = 1,163) were collected as part of a clinical study into SARS-CoV-2 serology testing during the second wave of the pandemic (November 2020-February 2021). Selected survey items included perceptions of risks, protection and preventive measures. Descriptive statistical analysis and regression were undertaken for gender, profession and COVID-19 patient care.

Results

The results reveal a low risk of 1% medically approved infections among participants, but a much higher mean personal risk estimate of 15%. The majority (68.4%) expressed “some” to “very strong” fear of acquiring infection at the workplace. Individual protective behavior and compliance with protective workplace measures were estimated as very high. Yet only about half of the respondents felt strongly protected by the employer; 12% even perceived “no” or “little” protection. Gender and contact with COVID-19 patients had no significant effect on the estimations of infection risks and protective workplace behavior, but nursing was correlated with higher levels of personal risk estimations and fear of infection.

Conclusions

A strong mismatch between low medically approved risk and personal risk perceptions of HCWs brings stressors and threats into view, that may be preventable through better information, training/education and risk communication and through investment in mental health and inclusion in pandemic preparedness plans.
Changes of COVID-19 Knowledge, Attitudes, Practices and Vaccination Willingness Among Residents in Jinan, China
Authors: Jiang Ning , Yang Cheng , Yu Wenjing , Luo Liyan , Tan Xin , Yang Liping
Published: May 2022

Background

Vaccine hesitancy is responsible for low vaccine coverage and increased risk of epidemics. The purpose of this study was to assess whether public knowledge, attitudes, practices, and willingness to vaccinate against COVID-19 have changed over time and at different stages of vaccination.

Methods

Two consecutive surveys were conducted among residents of the Leshan Community in Jinan from May to June, 2021 (n = 423) (basic dose vaccination phase) and from December, 2021 to January, 2022 (n = 470) (booster vaccination phase). Randomly sampling was used in residents to complete an anonymous questionnaire. Chi-square test was used to compare the changes in knowledge, attitudes and practices of the subjects in different survey stages. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to explore factors related to vaccination hesitancy.

Results

In the booster vaccination phase, protective behaviors (89.9%) of residents increased significantly compared with the basic vaccination phase (74.5%). Residents were more hesitant to receive booster doses than basal doses of COVID-19 vaccine (OR: 18.334, 95% CI: 9.021–37.262). Residents with other marital statuses (OR: 2.719, 95% CI: 1.632–4.528), negative attitudes toward government measures were more hesitant to get vaccinated (OR: 2.576, 95% CI: 1.612–4.118). People who thought their physical condition was very good or good were more likely to be vaccinated than those who thought they were in fair or poor health (OR: 0.516, 95% CI: 0.288–0.925; OR: 0.513, 95% CI: 0.295–0.893). Young people inclined to use new media (such as WeChat and microblog) to obtain information, while the elderly inclined to use traditional methods (such as television). Government propaganda, residents' perception of the importance of vaccines and the risk of disease were the main reasons for accelerating residents to vaccinate. The main reasons affecting residents' lack of vaccination were contraindications to the vaccine or inconvenient time for vaccination.

Conclusions

Vaccine hesitancy increased significantly with change in vaccination stage. Strategies should be adopted to increase vaccination coverage such as improving the convenience of vaccination, promoting through multiple channels.
Modulation of Beta Oscillations in the Pallidum During Externally Cued Gait
Authors: Lu Chiahao , Amundsen-Huffmaster Sommer L. , Louie Kenneth H. , Petrucci Matthew N. , Palnitkar Tara , Patriat Remi , Harel Noam , Park Michael C. , Vitek Jerrold L. , MacKinnon Colum D. , Cooper Scott E.
Published: May 2022

Freezing of gait (FOG) is a particularly debilitating symptom of Parkinson’s disease (PD) and is often refractory to treatment. A striking feature of FOG is that external sensory cues can be used to overcome freezing and improve gait. Local field potentials (LFPs) recorded from the subthalamic nucleus (STN) and globus pallidus (GP) show that beta-band power modulates with gait phase. In the STN, beta-band oscillations are modulated by external cues, but it is unknown if this relationship holds in the globus pallidus (GP). Here we report LFP data recorded from the left GP, using a Medtronic PC + S device, in a 68-year-old man with PD and FOG during treadmill walking. A “stepping stone” task was used during which stepping was cued using visual targets of constant color or targets that unpredictably changed color, requiring a step length adjustment. Gait performance was quantified using measures of treadmill ground reaction forces and center of pressure and body kinematics from video monitoring. Beta-band power (12–30 Hz) and number of freezing episodes were measured. Cues which unpredictably changed color improved FOG more than conventional cues and were associated with greater modulation of beta-band power in phase with gait. This preliminary finding suggests that cueing-induced improvement of FOG may relate to beta-band modulation.
Opportunities and Barriers Against Successive Implementation of Rainwater Harvesting Options to Ensure Water Security in Southwestern Coastal Region of Bangladesh
Authors: Afsari Navila , Murshed Sonia Binte , Uddin Sayed Mohammad Nazim , Hasan Monzurul
Published: May 2022

The Coastal Region of Bangladesh is surrounded by the acute crisis of safe drinking water. Potable water scarcity is an acute problem within the coastal regions of Bangladesh. Salinity intrusion in freshwater bodies, arsenic contamination, and low dry season rainfall are some of the reasons behind this deplorable condition. Such is the case in a southwestern district, Satkhira, where safe drinking water is a mirage for people. In this situation, adaptation and utilization of Rainwater Harvesting (RWH) can be considered as a globally sustainable solution among the various technologies to augment freshwater resources. RWH is becoming an integral part of the sustainable water management toolkit gradually. However, some issues are hindering the success of RWH. The absence of technical knowledge, unawareness of hygiene, economic constraints, and lack of training programs on the usage and maintenance of the technology are major reasons for reducing RWH technology's acceptability. This study assessed existing RWHs from several locations of Shyamnagar Upazila of Shatkhira district, incorporating social, economic, and institutional aspects along with policy and application gaps. A mixed-method approach was adopted for the assessment, which included 20 site inspections, questionnaire surveys among the consumers, focus groups discussions with concerning stakeholders, key informant interviews with local government officials. From the outcomes, Strength Weakness Opportunity Threat (SWOT) analysis was done to indicate opportunities and barriers which hinder the success of existing RWHs. We identified RWH as the most appropriate supplementary water source in this region. The substantial factors which enhanced the acceptance of RWH in the water-scarce area were the accessibility of water compared to other sources, improved livelihood potential, security against climate change, and provision from local government and Non-Government Organizations. Furthermore, there was enough quantity of water to support the total water need in household activities. However, a lack of knowledge and awareness was identified as a substantial social constrain of RWH use. High installation costs and the complex financial mechanism were found to be an economic obstruction to the acceptance of this system. There is a significant gap between policy and implementation at the field level. Identifying the opportunities, issues, and constraints of RWH in the study area allows stakeholders and policymakers to understand which programs, mechanisms, and strategies can be adopted for the sustainable implementation of RWH in Bangladesh. This assessment evaluates the socio-economic outcomes of an alternative water source in the coastal region, emphasizing the prominence of social awareness to sustainable development.
How Do Our Brains Support Our Friendships?
Authors: Baek Elisa C. , Hyon Ryan , Porter Mason A. , Parkinson Carolyn
Published: May 2022

Have you ever wondered how your friends impact how you see the world? Or how you are able to keep track of the many different people in your life? To study these questions, scientists have begun to look at people’s social networks and their brains at the same time. In this article, we introduce this area of study and discuss how scientists use ideas from both neuroscience and mathematics to examine these questions. We also highlight some recent discoveries that reveal both how our brains support our ability to socialize with others and how our relationships with other people are related to how we use our brains.
Greater Breast Support Alters Trunk and Knee Joint Biomechanics Commonly Associated With Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury
Authors: Fong Hailey B. , Nelson Alexis K. , Storey Julie E. , Hinton Jay , Puppa Melissa , McGhee Deirdre , Greenwood Daniel , Powell Douglas W.
Published: May 2022

Objective

The female breast is a passive tissue with little intrinsic support. Therefore, women rely on external breast support (sports bras) to control breast motion during athletic tasks. Research has demonstrated that lower levels of breast support are associated with altered trunk and pelvis movement patterns during running, a common athletic task. However, no previous study has identified the effect of sports bra support on movement patterns during other athletic tasks including landing. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the effects of breast support on trunk and knee joint biomechanics in female collegiate athletes during a double-leg landing task.

Methods

Fourteen female collegiate athletes completed five double-leg landing trials in each of three different sports bra conditions: no support, low support, and high support. A 10-camera motion capture system (250 Hz, Qualisys, Goteburg, Sweden) and two force platforms (1,250 Hz, AMTI, Watertown, MA, USA) were used to collect three-dimensional kinematics and ground reaction forces simultaneously. Visual 3D was used to calculate trunk segment and knee joint angles and moments. Custom software (MATLAB 2021a) was used to determine discrete values of dependent variables including vertical breast displacement, knee joint and trunk segment angles at initial contact and 100 ms post-initial contact, and peak knee joint moments. A repeated measures analysis of covariance with post-hoc paired samples t-tests were used to evaluate the effect of breast support on landing biomechanics.

Results

Increasing levels of breast support were associated with reductions in peak knee flexion (Right: p = 0.008; Left: p = 0.029) and peak knee valgus angles (Right: p = 0.011; Left: p = 0.003) as well as reductions in peak knee valgus moments (Right: p = 0.033; Left: p = 0.013). There were no changes in peak knee extension moments (Right: p = 0.216; Left: p = 0.261). Increasing levels of breast support were associated with greater trunk flexion angles at initial contact (p = 0.024) and greater peak trunk flexion angles (p = 0.002).

Conclusions

Lower levels of breast support are associated with knee joint and trunk biomechanical profiles suggested to increase ACL injury risk.
Clinical Data Analysis for Treatment of Adult Inguinal Hernia by TAPP or TEP
Authors: Cao Chunhui , Shi Xiaoyu , Jin Wei , Luan Fengming
Published: May 2022

Background

Transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) repair and totally extraperitoneal (TEP) repair are the primary surgical methods for the treatment of adult inguinal hernia, but it remains necessary to consider which one to choose in clinical practice. Our study seeks to compare the efficacy of laparoscopic TAPP and laparoscopic TEP in the treatment of adult inguinal hernia and to explore which surgical method is a better choice.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 686 adult patients with inguinal hernia admitted to our hospital from the period January 2016 to December 2020 was conducted. According to different surgical methods, they were divided into two groups: a TAPP group (n = 361) and a TEP group (n = 325). These two groups of patients were statistically analyzed, and the operation time, postoperative pain, postoperative hospital stay length, postoperative complications, and recurrence rate were compared between them.

Results

There were no significant differences in postoperative hospital stay, complications, and the recurrence rate between the two groups (p > 0.05). The duration of operation in the TEP group was significantly shorter than that in the TAPP group, and the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.001); in terms of postoperative pain, the TEP group fared better than the TAPP group, and the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

TAPP and TEP are safe and effective surgical methods in the treatment of adult inguinal hernia. However, compared with TAPP, TEP can significantly shorten the operative time, reduce intraoperative trauma, and limit postoperative pain in the treatment of adult inguinal hernia. Furthermore, it does not increase the rate of complications or recurrence, so it is worth popularizing.
Comparison of Survival Outcomes of Different Treatment Options for cT1-2, N0 Glottic Carcinoma: A Propensity Score–Weighted Analysis
Authors: Liang Qi-wei , Peng Liang , Liao Jing , Huang Chun-xia , Wen Wei-ping , Sun Wei
Published: May 2022

Background

Treatments for cT1-2, N0 glottic squamous cell carcinoma (GLSCC) include endoscopic resection, open surgery, and radiotherapy. The purpose of this study was to compare the outcomes of three treatment modalities and provide reference data for treatment selection.

Methods

In all, 4274 patients with cT1-2, N0 GLSCC underwent these three treatment modalities from 2004 to 2015 were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results-18 database. Overall survival (OS) and disease-specific survival (DSS) of patients treated with the three modalities were compared.

Results

In the entire cohort, there were no significant differences in 5-year OS and 5-year DSS among the three treatment groups. In subgroup analyses based on stage and age, endoscopic resection provided significantly better 5-year survival than radiotherapy for cT1, N0 patients aged <65 years, with an OS rate of 89.0% vs. 82.3% (p = 0.009) and a DSS rate of 95.6% vs. 88.2% (p = 0.021). For 5-year DSS, open surgery also had better outcomes than patients who received radiotherapy (5-year DSS: 98.5% vs. 88.2%, respectively; p = 0.046).

Conclusions

To summarize, for cT1, N0 GLSCC patients younger than 65 years, surgical treatment (either endoscopic or open) appears to be superior to the radiotherapy, and endoscopic resection should probably be the first consideration.
Case Report: Idiopathic Spinal Cord Herniation: An Overlooked and Frequently Misdiagnosed Entity
Authors: Yang Chenlong , Lin Guozhong , Zhang Jia , Yang Jun , Xie Jingcheng
Published: May 2022

Background

Idiopathic spinal cord herniation is an extremely rare entity that is characterized by protrusion of the spinal cord through a defect in the ventral dura. Due to the paucity of enough clinical evidence, the treatment and prognosis of idiopathic spinal cord herniation are still elusive. Herein, we reported a case of idiopathic spinal cord herniation occurring at the C7–T1 levels that was treated by surgical reduction.

Case description

A 44-year-old Chinese woman presented with a 5-year history of numbness and weakness in the bilateral lower limbs. Spinal magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated ventral displacement of the spinal cord at the C7–T1 levels, and there seemed to be a cuneiform space-occupying lesion dorsal to the spinal cord. A diagnosis of the spinal intradural extramedullary tumor was suspected. An exploratory operation was performed via a posterior midline approach. Intraoperatively, we found a defect in the ventral dura through which the spinal cord herniated to the epidural space. After the herniated parenchyma was returned, an artificial dura matter was used to repair the defect. The postoperative course was uneventful. After a 3-month follow-up, the lower-extremity weakness was significantly improved, and there was no recurrence of the spinal cord herniation.

Conclusion

Preoperative diagnosis of idiopathic spinal cord herniation is exceedingly challenging. Surgical reduction of the herniated spinal cord with the repair of the dural defect is an effective approach for the treatment of this rare disorder, and the surgical outcome is favorable.
Use of Translational, Genetically Modified Porcine Models to Ultimately Improve Intestinal Disease Treatment
Authors: Schaaf Cecilia R. , Gonzalez Liara M.
Published: May 2022

For both human and veterinary patients, non-infectious intestinal disease is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. To improve treatment of intestinal disease, large animal models are increasingly recognized as critical tools to translate the basic science discoveries made in rodent models into clinical application. Large animal intestinal models, particularly porcine, more closely resemble human anatomy, physiology, and disease pathogenesis; these features make them critical to the pre-clinical study of intestinal disease treatments. Previously, large animal model use has been somewhat precluded by the lack of genetically altered large animals to mechanistically investigate non-infectious intestinal diseases such as colorectal cancer, cystic fibrosis, and ischemia-reperfusion injury. However, recent advances and increased availability of gene editing technologies has led to both novel use of large animal models in clinically relevant intestinal disease research and improved testing of potential therapeutics for these diseases.
Allograft Function as Endpoint for Clinical Trials in Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Hilbrands Luuk , Budde Klemens , Bellini Maria Irene , Diekmann Fritz , Furian Lucrezia , Grinyó Josep , Heemann Uwe , Hesselink Dennis A. , Loupy Alexandre , Oberbauer Rainer , Pengel Liset , Reinders Marlies , Schneeberger Stefan , Naesens Maarten
Published: May 2022

Clinical study endpoints that assess the efficacy of interventions in patients with chronic renal insufficiency can be adopted for use in kidney transplantation trials, given the pathophysiological similarities between both conditions. Kidney dysfunction is reflected in the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and although a predefined (e.g., 50%) reduction in GFR was recommended as an endpoint by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) in 2016, many other endpoints are also included in clinical trials. End-stage renal disease is strongly associated with a change in estimated (e)GFR, and eGFR trajectories or slopes are increasingly used as endpoints in clinical intervention trials in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Similar approaches could be considered for clinical trials in kidney transplantation, although several factors should be taken into account. The present Consensus Report was developed from documentation produced by the European Society for Organ Transplantation (ESOT) as part of a Broad Scientific Advice request that ESOT submitted to the EMA in 2020. This paper provides a contemporary discussion of primary endpoints used in clinical trials involving CKD, including proteinuria and albuminuria, and evaluates the validity of these concepts as endpoints for clinical trials in kidney transplantation.
Impact of Selective Renal Afferent Denervation on Oxidative Stress and Vascular Remodeling in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Wu Lu-Lu , Zhang Yue , Li Xiu-Zhen , Du Xin-Li , Gao Ying , Wang Jing-Xiao , Wang Xiao-Li , Chen Qi , Li Yue-Hua , Zhu Guo-Qing , Tan Xiao
Published: May 2022

Oxidative stress and sustained sympathetic over-activity contribute to the pathogenesis of hypertension. Catheter-based renal denervation has been used as a strategy for treatment of resistant hypertension, which interrupts both afferent and efferent renal fibers. However, it is unknown whether selective renal afferent denervation (RAD) may play beneficial roles in attenuating oxidative stress and sympathetic activity in hypertension. This study investigated the impact of selective RAD on hypertension and vascular remodeling. Nine-week-old normotensive Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) were subjected to selective renal afferent denervation (RAD) with 33 mM of capsaicin for 15 min. Treatment with the vehicle of capsaicin was used as a control. The selective denervation was confirmed by the reduced calcitonin gene-related peptide expression and the undamaged renal sympathetic nerve activity response to the stimulation of adipose white tissue. Selective RAD reduced plasma norepinephrine levels, improved heart rate variability (HRV) and attenuated hypertension in SHR.It reduced NADPH oxidase (NOX) expression and activity, and superoxide production in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN), aorta and mesenteric artery of SHR. Moreover, the selective RAD attenuated the vascular remodeling of the aorta and mesenteric artery of SHR. These results indicate that selective removal of renal afferents attenuates sympathetic activity, oxidative stress, vascular remodeling and hypertension in SHR. The attenuated superoxide signaling in the PVN is involved in the attenuation of sympathetic activity in SHR, and the reduced sympathetic activity at least partially contributes to the attenuation of vascular oxidative stress and remodeling in the arteries of hypertensive rats.
Lipid-Coated Nanocrystals as a Tool for Improving the Antioxidant Activity of Resveratrol
Authors: Argenziano Monica , Ansari Irfan Aamer , Muntoni Elisabetta , Spagnolo Rita , Scomparin Anna , Cavalli Roberta
Published: May 2022

Trans-resveratrol, a polyphenolic phytoalexin found in various plant sources, has been the focus of increasing attention in recent years because of its role in the prevention of many human diseases, and particularly because of its antioxidant properties. However, the in vivo effect of trans-resveratrol after oral administration is negligible when compared to its efficacy in vitro, due to its low bioavailability. Moreover, it presents stability issues as it is an extremely photosensitive compound when exposed to light. This work aims to develop lipid-coated nanocrystals in order to improve the antioxidant activity and bioavailability of trans-resveratrol. Lipid-coated trans-resveratrol nanocrystals with sizes lower than 500 nm, spherical shapes and smooth surfaces were obtained via a milling method. They showed a faster dissolution rate than the coarse trans-resveratrol powder. The antioxidant properties of trans-resveratrol were not impaired by the milling process. The in vivo pharmacokinetics of lipid-coated trans-resveratrol nanocrystals were evaluated after oral administration to rats, with a commercial Phytosome® formulation being used for comparison purposes. An increase in the trans-resveratrol area under the curve was observed and the lipid-coated nanocrystal formulation led to an enhancement in the oral bioavailability of the compound.
Oxidative Stress, HSP70/HSP90 and eNOS/iNOS Serum Levels in Professional Divers during Hyperbaric Exposition
Authors: Szyller Jakub , Kozakiewicz Mariusz , Siermontowski Piotr , Kaczerska Dorota
Published: May 2022

Heat shock proteins (HSPs) have protective effects against oxidative stress and decompression sickness. Nitric oxide may reduce bubble formation during decompression and its activity is regulated by HSPs. A simulated dive can cause the HSP response. The aim of this study was to describe the effect of simulated dives on the antioxidant system, HSPs, and nitric oxide synthase response and demonste the relationship between the concentration of HSPs and the intensification of oxidative stress. A total of 20 healthy professional divers took part in training, consisting of simulated dry dives in a hyperbaric chamber and split into experiment I (30 m exposure, 400 kPa) and experiment II (60 m exposure, 700 kPa) over 24 h. The activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and the concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA), heat shock protein 70 (HSP70), heat shock protein 90 (HSP90), endothelial (eNOS) and inducible (iNOS) nitric oxide synthase were measured. Increases in the activity of SOD and MDA concentration were demonstrated. The activity of GPx depended on the dive profile. The HSP70 serum level in both experiments was significantly lower after the dives. The mean HSP90 level was significantly higher after the simulated dive at 60 m. A significant relationship between HSP concentration and SOD/GPx activity was demonstrated. eNOS concentration increased after 60 m exposure. No change in iNOS concentration was observed. In conclusions, the simulated dive significantly affected the antioxidant system, heat shock protein expression and nitric oxide synthase; however, the changes depend on the diving conditions. There is a relationship between the expression of HSPs and the intensity of oxidative stress.
Diclofenac: A Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug Inducing Cancer Cell Death by Inhibiting Microtubule Polymerization and Autophagy Flux
Authors: Choi Soohee , Kim Suree , Park Jiyoung , Lee Seung Eun , Kim Chaewon , Kang Dongmin
Published: May 2022

Diclofenac, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat inflammatory diseases induces cellular toxicity by increasing the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and impairing autophagic flux. In this study, we investigated whether diclofenac induces cancer cell death and the mechanism by which diclofenac causes cell death. We observed that diclofenac induces mitotic arrest with a half-maximal effective concentration of 170 μM and cell death with a half-maximal lethal dose of 200 µM during 18-h incubation in HeLa cells. Cellular microtubule imaging and in vitro tubulin polymerization assays demonstrated that treatment with diclofenac elicits microtubule destabilization. Autophagy relies on microtubule-mediated transport and the fusion of autophagic vesicles. We observed that diclofenac inhibits both phagophore movement, an early step of autophagy, and the fusion of autophagosomes and lysosomes, a late step of autophagy. Diclofenac also induces the fragmentation of mitochondria and the Golgi during cell death. We found that diclofenac induces cell death further in combination with 5-fuorouracil, a DNA replication inhibitor than in single treatment in cancer cells. Pancreatic cancer cells, which have high basal autophagy, are particularly sensitive to cell death by diclofenac. Our study suggests that microtubule destabilization by diclofenac induces cancer cell death via compromised spindle assembly checkpoints and increased ROS through impaired autophagy flux. Diclofenac may be a candidate therapeutic drug in certain type of cancers by inhibiting microtubule-mediated cellular events in combination with clinically utilized nucleoside metabolic inhibitors, including 5-fluorouracil, to block cancer cell proliferation.
Evolution of Heme Peroxygenases: Ancient Roots and Later Evolved Branches
Authors: Zámocký Marcel , Harichová Jana
Published: May 2022

We reconstructed the molecular phylogeny of heme containing peroxygenases that are known as very versatile biocatalysts. These oxidoreductases capable of mainly oxyfunctionalizations constitute the peroxidase–peroxygenase superfamily. Our representative reconstruction revealed a high diversity but also well conserved sequence motifs within rather short protein molecules. Corresponding genes coding for heme thiolate peroxidases with peroxygenase activity were detected only among various lower eukaryotes. Most of them originate in the kingdom of fungi. However, it seems to be obvious that these htp genes are present not only among fungal Dikarya but they are distributed also in the clades of Mucoromycota and Chytridiomycota with deep ancient evolutionary origins. Moreover, there is also a distinct clade formed mainly by phytopathogenic Stramenopiles where even HTP sequences from Amoebozoa can be found. The phylogenetically older heme peroxygenases are mostly intracellular, but the later evolution gave a preference for secretory proteins mainly among pathogenic fungi. We also analyzed the conservation of typical structural features within various resolved clades of peroxygenases. The presented output of our phylogenetic analysis may be useful in the rational design of specifically modified peroxygenases for various future biotech applications.
An End-to-End Atrous Spatial Pyramid Pooling and Skip-Connections Generative Adversarial Segmentation Network for Building Extraction from High-Resolution Aerial Images
Authors: Yu Mingyang , Zhang Wenzhuo , Chen Xiaoxian , Liu Yaohui , Niu Jingge
Published: May 2022

Automatic building extraction based on high-resolution aerial imagery is an important challenge with a wide range of practical applications. One of the mainstream methods for extracting buildings from high-resolution images is deep learning because of its excellent deep feature extraction capability. However, existing models suffer from the problems of hollow interiors of some buildings and blurred boundaries. Furthermore, the increase in remote sensing image resolution has also led to rough segmentation results. To address these issues, we propose a generative adversarial segmentation network (ASGASN) for pixel-level extraction of buildings. The segmentation network of this framework adopts an asymmetric encoder–decoder structure. It captures and aggregates multiscale contextual information using the ASPP module and improves the classification and localization accuracy of the network using the global convolutional block. The discriminator network is an adversarial network that correctly discriminates the output of the generator and ground truth maps and computes multiscale L1 loss by fusing multiscale feature mappings. The segmentation network and the discriminator network are trained alternately on the WHU building dataset and the China typical cities building dataset. Experimental results show that the proposed ASGASN can accurately identify different types of buildings and achieve pixel-level high accuracy extraction of buildings. Additionally, compared to available deep learning models, ASGASN also achieved the highest accuracy performance (89.4% and 83.6% IoU on these two datasets, respectively).
qEEG Analysis in the Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease: A Comparison of Functional Connectivity and Spectral Analysis
Authors: Frangopoulou Maria Semeli , Alimardani Maryam
Published: May 2022

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a brain disorder that is mainly characterized by a progressive degeneration of neurons in the brain and decline of cognitive abilities. This study compared an FFT-based spectral analysis against a functional connectivity analysis for the diagnosis of AD. Both quantitative methods were applied on an EEG dataset including 20 diagnosed AD patients and 20 age-matched healthy controls (HC). The obtained results showed an advantage of the functional connectivity analysis when compared to the spectral analysis; while the latter could not find any significant differences between the AD and HC groups, the functional connectivity analysis showed statistically higher synchronization levels in the AD group in the lower frequency bands (delta and theta), suggesting a ‘phase-locked’ state in AD-affected brains. Further comparison of functional connectivity between the homotopic regions confirmed that the traits of AD were localized to the centro-parietal and centro-temporal areas in the theta frequency band (4–8 Hz). This study applies a neural metric for Alzheimer’s detection from a data science perspective rather than from a neuroscience one and shows that the combination of bipolar derivations with phase synchronization yields similar results to comparable studies employing alternative analysis methods.
Path Tracking of Underground Mining Boom Roadheader Combining BP Neural Network and State Estimation
Authors: Qu Yuanyuan , Yang Teng , Li Tao , Zhan Yu , Fu Shichen
Published: May 2022

This paper proposes a path correction scheduling strategy for the underground mining boom roadheader by ably combining a back propagation (BP) neural network and state estimation. First, a pose deviation-based tracking model is designed for the roadheader, and it is then further studied and optimized by incorporating the benefits of BP neural networks into the model adaptation. Considering the fact that there is skidding between tracks on the ground and errors during the instant pose detection of the roadheader underground, singular value decomposition (SVD)–Unscented Kalman filtering is applied to estimate the real pose deviation, based on the summarized distribution regularities of the track skidding ratios and the pose detection errors, instead of complicated analysis mechanisms. The BP neural network and states estimation are well combined in structure, enabling this scheduling strategy to update the control law and revise the control instruction simultaneously in the procedure. The proposed path tracking model for the roadheader is simple and clear, without adding extra devices or massive algorithms, which is attractive in terms of industrial use. The path tracking simulations show that this proposed strategy achieves path tracking well in different scenarios and is of high adaptability when facing complex trajectory while still giving stable control instructions for the roadheader.
Thermal Modeling of Ultrasound Diathermy in Tissues with a Circular Inclusion near a Curved Interface
Authors: Chang Kao-Hao , Huang Chang-Wei
Published: May 2022

The influences of implants on the temperature field in tissues during ultrasound diathermy is controversial. In addition, most previous studies have focused on plate implants, and the effects of irregular implants and bones are seldom discussed. In this study, a hybrid computational framework per se is proposed to investigate the effects of double circular inclusions on the temperature distribution during ultrasound diathermy. The tissue–inclusion–bone structure is simplified as a two-dimensional bilayer composite model consisting of soft tissue and bone with a circular inclusion imbedded in the soft tissue. The interface between the bone layer and the soft-tissue layer is assumed as a convex surface for the incident ultrasonic waves. Multiply scattered waves originate between the two acoustic scatterers, i.e., the circular inclusion and the convex bone. The proposed computational framework consists of two kernels tackling ultrasound propagation and heat conduction problems, respectively. Making use of theoretical solutions of pressure fields, the transformed heat sources are efficiently obtained in the first kernel without sacrificing much computational burden. Temperature distributions in the composite media under ultrasound diathermy are evaluated via finite element numerical simulations in the second kernel. Numerical results indicate that the temperature distributions in the composite system obviously change when the bone layer changes from flat to convex. In addition, the inclusion size, location, material, and ultrasound operation frequency will also affect the temperature distribution and peak temperature during ultrasound diathermy. Pertinent findings could serve as a guide for clinical innovations in therapeutic ultrasounds.
Interaction between Highly Diluted Samples, Protein Solutions and Water in a Controlled Magnetic Field
Authors: Novikov Vadim V. , Yablokova Elena V.
Published: May 2022

We have previously shown that water incubated in a weak combined magnetic field (CMF) increased the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by neutrophils. Adding high dilutions (HD) of water into the same system resulted in a similar effect. HD of antibodies to interferon-gamma (HD Abs to IFNγ) were shown to emit electromagnetic radiation and affect hydrogen bond energies. Here, we aimed to evaluate the effect of HD of substances (donor) on the properties of aqueous solutions (acceptor). The donor and acceptor were incubated for 1 h in a controlled magnetic field so that the walls of the two cuvettes were in close contact. As a control, the acceptor was incubated under the same conditions but without the donor. An aliquot of the acceptor solution was then added to mouse neutrophils, and ROS levels were measured using luminol-dependent chemiluminescence assay. Joint incubation led to a 185–356% increase (p < 0.05) in ROS production, depending on the type of acceptor sample. The magnitude of the effect depended on the parameters of the magnetic field. In a CMF, the effect was strongest, completely disappearing in a magnetic vacuum or with shielding. These findings are important for understanding the physical mechanism of action of HD preparations, which opens up opportunities for expanding their practical applications.
Overview of Identified Genomic Regions Associated with Various Agronomic and Physiological Traits in Barley under Abiotic Stresses
Authors: Fatemi Farzaneh , Kianersi Farzad , Pour-Aboughadareh Alireza , Poczai Peter , Jadidi Omid
Published: May 2022

Climate change has caused breeders to focus on varieties that are able to grow under unfavorable conditions, such as drought, high and low temperatures, salinity, and other stressors. In recent decades, progress in biotechnology and its related tools has provided opportunities to dissect and decipher the genetic basis of tolerance to various stress conditions. One such approach is the identification of genomic regions that are linked with specific or multiple characteristics. Cereal crops have a key role in supplying the energy required for human and animal populations. However, crop products are dramatically affected by various environmental stresses. Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is one of the oldest domesticated crops that is cultivated globally. Research has shown that, compared with other cereals, barley is well adapted to various harsh environmental conditions. There is ample literature regarding these responses to abiotic stressors, as well as the genomic regions associated with the various morpho-physiological and biochemical traits of stress tolerance. This review focuses on (i) identifying the tolerance mechanisms that are important for stable growth and development, and (ii) the applicability of QTL mapping and association analysis in identifying genomic regions linked with stress-tolerance traits, in order to help breeders in marker-assisted selection (MAS) to quickly screen tolerant germplasms in their breeding cycles. Overall, the information presented here will inform and assist future barley breeding programs.
An Offshore Wind–Wave Energy Station Location Analysis by a Novel Behavioral Dual-Side Spherical Fuzzy Approach: The Case Study of Vietnam
Authors: Le Minh-Tai , Nhieu Nhat-Luong
Published: May 2022

Despite the high capital requirements, offshore wind and wave energy integrated stations (WWS) are an emerging and potential solution to optimize efficiency in renewable energy development. Decisions about installation location significantly influence their efficiency. This study examines and determines highly efficient and sustainable locations based on quantitative indicators and qualitative criteria. For this purpose, a novel dual-side behavioral spherical fuzzy multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approach was developed and applied for the case study of Vietnam. In the first stage, the behavioral Data Envelopment Analysis (B-DEA) model, constructed based on prospect theory, is applied to analyze locations according to quantitative indicators under decision makers’ psychological behavior consideration. In the second stage, a spherical fuzzy extension of the integration composed of the DEMATEL (decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory) and the EDAS (evaluation based on distance from average solution) methods helped to evaluate the locations. Based on the convergence in qualitative and quantitative analysis results, efficiency–sustainability positioning maps are established. The research provides recommendations for appropriate WWS locations from that visualization. The research compared findings with current development projects, plans, and policies in Vietnam for validation.
Verification Analysis of Volume Flow Measured by a Direct Method and by Two Indirect CO2 Balance Methods
Authors: Janke David , Willink Diliara , Ammon Christian , Doumbia El-Hadj Moustapha , Römer Anke , Amon Barbara , Amon Thomas , Hempel Sabrina
Published: May 2022

Ammonia and greenhouse gases have a negative impact on the environment. The most important agricultural sources of ammonia are dairy cattle housing systems, which are mainly naturally ventilated. Estimating emissions for naturally ventilated barns (NVB) is challenging due to the large number of influencing factors. Most notably, the direct coupling of the inside flow regime with ambient and turbulent weather conditions causes difficulties in measuring ventilation rates, gas concentrations and emissions; thus, different methods are available. In this study, we compared the outputs of total volume flow obtained by two indirect methods (CO2 mass balance) to the direct method. The latter we assume in this study as the reference method since it is a fundamental approach that estimates airflow on the inlet. In the context of mass balancing, we compared wind related (sampling method 1) and non-wind related (sampling method 2) approaches for measuring CO2 concentrations. The total volume flow calculations were based on hourly measurements of CO2 concentrations obtained by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometer. Data were collected over a period of six months. The values of the total volume flow were filtered for prevailing southern winds (90∘ angle). The wind related method (sampling method 1) in stable cross-inflow conditions produces more accurate and realistic values in terms of the general representation of the values in comparison with direct method and can be considered further for measurements of volume flow in the NVBs.
Experimental Study of Scour Hole Depth around Bridge Pile Using Efficient Cross-Section
Authors: Tariq Moiz , Khan Azam , Khan Mujahid
Published: May 2022

Extensive numerical and analytical studies exist that focus on the scours around bridge piers with different cross-sections. However, studies addressing the scour around bridge piles are rather limited and not conclusive. Therefore, the most efficient cross-section reducing the local scour around a pile group is experimentally examined herein. Accordingly, comparative scouring of three different shapes, namely, circular, rectangular and lenticular, is investigated by installing a cohesion-less bedding material around scaled bridge piles immersed in clear water. It is also shown that the available pier scour predictive models grossly underestimate the depth of pile scour holes. For example, the pier predictive models underestimate the pile scours hole by more than 50% in the case of square and circular cross-sections. It also transpires from the experimental investigation that the scour hole depth around the square shape pile is significant, around the circular pile is moderate and around the lenticular pile is minimal.
The Effect of Functional Group Polarity in Palladium Immobilized Multiwalled Carbon Nanotube Catalysis: Application in Carbon–Carbon Coupling Reaction
Authors: Chandra Boggarapu Praphulla , Wu Zheqiong , Ntim Susana Addo , Rao Golakoti Nageswara , Mitra Somenath
Published: May 2022

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are effective supports for nanometals and together they represent hybrids that combine the unique properties of both. A microwave-induced reaction was used to deposit nanopalladium on carboxylated and octadecylamine functionalized multiwall CNTs, which were used to carry out C–C coupling reactions in dimethylformamide (DMF) and toluene. These hybrids showed excellent catalytic activity with yield as high as 99.8%, while its enhancement with respect to commercially available Pd/C catalyst reached as high as 109%, and the reaction times were significantly lower. The polarity of the functionalized form was found to be a significant factor with the polar carboxylated CNT showing better activity in DMF while the relatively nonpolar octadecyl amine was better in toluene. The results suggest the possibility of tailor making functionalized CNTs when used as catalyst supports.
Wind Lidar and Radiosonde Measurements of Low-Level Jets in Coastal Areas of the German Bight
Authors: Rausch Thomas , Cañadillas Beatriz , Hampel Oliver , Simsek Tayfun , Tayfun Yilmaz Batuhan , Neumann Thomas , Siedersleben Simon , Lampert Astrid
Published: May 2022

For wind energy, the knowledge of the available wind resource is essential. Therefore, specific wind phenomena at the altitude range of wind turbines are currently the focus of investigations. One such specific feature is the low-level jet (LLJ). The article analyses LLJ properties at two locations in the German Bight: A wind lidar system for measuring wind profiles at heights from 50 m to 500 m a.g.l. (above ground level) was first installed at the offshore island of Heligoland, Germany, and then at the coastal island of Norderney, Germany, for one year. The LLJ is defined here as a maximum horizontal wind speed in the vertical profile of horizontal wind speed followed by a minimum wind speed, independent of the mechanism or origin of the phenomenon. The two sites showed a similar annual and diurnal distribution of LLJ events with a maximum occurrence in spring and summer and during the night, and a most frequent jet core height of around 120 m a.g.l. Based on radiosondes launched from Norderney at midnight and noon, it is shown that LLJ events at noon are most frequent when atmospheric conditions are stable. A case study shows the horizontal extent of an LLJ event over at least 100 km by simultaneous wind lidar measurements at four sites in the German Bight and mesoscale simulations with the weather research and forecast (WRF) model.