bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deciphering the Role of Schwann Cells in Inflammatory Peripheral Neuropathies Post Alphavirus Infection
Authors: Bedoui Yosra , De Larichaudy Dauriane , Daniel Matthieu , Ah-Pine Franck , Selambarom Jimmy , Guiraud Pascale , Gasque Philippe
Published: December 2022

Old world alphaviruses (e.g., chikungunya) are known to cause severe acute and chronic debilitating arthralgia/arthritis. However, atypical neurological manifestations and, in particular, unexpected cases of acute inflammatory Guillain–Barre syndrome (GBS) have been associated with the arthritogenic alphaviruses. The pathogenesis of alphavirus-associated GBS remains unclear. We herein addressed for the first time the role of Schwann cells (SC) in peripheral neuropathy post-alphaviral infection using the prototypical ONNV alphavirus model. We demonstrated that human SC expressed the recently identified alphavirus receptor MxRA8 and granting viral entry and robust replication. A canonical innate immune response was engaged by ONNV-infected SC with elevated gene expression for RIG-I, MDA5, IFN-β, and ISG15 and inflammatory chemokine CCL5. Transcription levels of prostaglandin E2-metabolizing enzymes including cPLA2α, COX-2, and mPGES-1 were also upregulated in ONNV-infected SC. Counterintuitively, we found that ONNV failed to affect SC regenerative properties as indicated by elevated expression of the pro-myelinating genes MPZ and MBP1 as well as the major pro-myelin transcription factor Egr2. While ONNV infection led to decreased expression of CD55 and CD59, essential to control complement bystander cytotoxicity, it increased TRAIL expression, a major pro-apoptotic T cell signal. Anti-apoptotic Bcl2 transcription levels were also increased in infected SC. Hence, our study provides new insights regarding the remarkable immunomodulatory role of SC of potential importance in the pathogenesis of GBS following alphavirus infection.
Inferencing Bulk Tumor and Single-Cell Multi-Omics Regulatory Networks for Discovery of Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Ye Qing , Guo Nancy Lan
Published: December 2022

There are insufficient accurate biomarkers and effective therapeutic targets in current cancer treatment. Multi-omics regulatory networks in patient bulk tumors and single cells can shed light on molecular disease mechanisms. Integration of multi-omics data with large-scale patient electronic medical records (EMRs) can lead to the discovery of biomarkers and therapeutic targets. In this review, multi-omics data harmonization methods were introduced, and common approaches to molecular network inference were summarized. Our Prediction Logic Boolean Implication Networks (PLBINs) have advantages over other methods in constructing genome-scale multi-omics networks in bulk tumors and single cells in terms of computational efficiency, scalability, and accuracy. Based on the constructed multi-modal regulatory networks, graph theory network centrality metrics can be used in the prioritization of candidates for discovering biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Our approach to integrating multi-omics profiles in a patient cohort with large-scale patient EMRs such as the SEER-Medicare cancer registry combined with extensive external validation can identify potential biomarkers applicable in large patient populations. These methodologies form a conceptually innovative framework to analyze various available information from research laboratories and healthcare systems, accelerating the discovery of biomarkers and therapeutic targets to ultimately improve cancer patient survival outcomes.
Predicting the Printability of Poly(Lactide) Acid Filaments in Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) Technology: Rheological Measurements and Experimental Evidence
Authors: Patti Antonella , Acierno Stefano , Cicala Gianluca , Acierno Domenico
Published: December 2022

In this work, the authors aimed to identify a potential correlation between the printability and crucial rheological characteristics of materials involved in fused deposition modeling (FDM) technology. In this regard, three different poly(lactide) acid (PLA)-based filaments (two commercially available (here called V-PLA and R-PLA) and one processed in a lab-scale extruder (here called L-PLA)) have been considered. Dynamic rheological testing, in terms of frequency sweep at five different temperatures (130, 150, 170, 190, and 210 °C), was performed. Rheological properties expressed in terms of viscoelastic moduli and complex viscosity curves vs. frequency, characteristic relaxation times, activation energy (Ea), zero shear viscosity (η0) and shear thinning index (n) were derived for each material. A characteristic relaxation time of around 0.243 s was found for V-PLA, a similar value (0.295 s) was calculated for R-PLA filaments, and a lower value of about an order of magnitude was calculated for L-PLA filament (~0.0303 s). The activation energy and shear thinning index resulted to be very comparable for all the filaments. On the contrary, V-PLA and R-PLA possessed a zero-shear viscosity (~104 Pa*s at 170 °C) much higher than L-PLA (~103 Pa*s). All the filaments were processed in a 3D printer, by attesting the effect of nozzle temperature (180, 190, and 210 °C, respectively) on printing process, and macroscopic shaping defects in printed objects. Final considerations allowed us to conclude that polymer relaxation time, zero-shear viscosity, and melt viscosity (affected by printing temperature) were critical parameters affecting the printing quality.
Application of Screen Printed Diamond Electrode, Coupled with “Point-of-Care” Platform, for Nanomolar Quantification of Phytonutrient Pterostilbene in Dietary Supplements: An Experimental Study Supported by Theory
Authors: Đurđić Slađana , Vlahović Filip , Markićević Milan , Mutić Jelena , Manojlović Dragan , Stanković Vesna , Švorc Ľubomír , Stanković Dalibor
Published: December 2022

Herein, a screen–printed diamond electrode (SPDE) coupled with a “point-of-care” platform (30 µL-drop concepts, single-drop-detection approach) was successfully applied for the electrochemical determination of pterostilbene (PTS). Cyclic voltammetry identified irreversible oxidation of PTS, where oxidation peak was shown to be strongly dependent on the pH of the working environmental. Although the proposition of the detailed electrochemical oxidation mechanism of PTS goes out of the scope of the present research, we have determined the most probable reactive site of our analyte, by utilizing DFT-based reactivity descriptors (Fukui functions). For electrochemical quantification of PTS, oxidation peak at 0.32 V (vs. Ag/AgCl) was followed in presence of 0.5 mol L−1 of Briton–Robinson buffer solution (pH = 9). Coupled with the optimized parameters of differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), SPDE detected PTS in two linear ranges (first range was from 0.011 to 0.912 µmol L−1; second range was from 0.912 to 4.420 µmol L−1), providing the LOD and LOQ on a nanomolar level (3.1 nmol L−1 and 10.0 nmol L−1, respectively). The selectivity of the optimized DPV method was found to be excellent, with the current changes of less than 7%, in the presence of ten times higher concentrations of the certain interferences. The practical applicability of the SPDE and single-drop-detection approach in dietary supplements (with a declared PTS content of 50 mg/tablet), with the recovery values ranging from 95 to 102%, shows that the developed method has high potential for precise and accurate PTS detection, as well as exceptional miniaturization possibilities of relevant equipment for on-site sensing.
Specific and Sensitive Determination of Folic Acid by Label-Free Chemosensors with Microscope Glass Slips as Single-Use Consumables
Authors: Novichikhin Denis O. , Orlov Alexey V. , Antopolsky Maxim L. , Znoyko Sergey L. , Nikitin Petr I.
Published: December 2022

Folic acid (FA) and its other forms known as folates are small molecules vital for humans. The high demand for increasingly sensitive methods of measuring folate concentrations is due to the fact that abnormal levels of FA cause severe health disorders. Besides, folates are used as recognition molecules in targeted drug delivery. The majority of FA measuring techniques are rather expensive, laborious, sometimes not sufficiently sensitive and specific, and often employ consumables that are too costly to be single-use for routine medical diagnostics. Here, we present a procedure for transformation of a simple microscope cover glass slip without deposition of any metal or dielectric films into a cost-efficient chemosensor chip interrogated by spectral correlation interferometry for highly sensitive measurements of the concentration of small molecules, as well as a feasibility study of long-term monitoring of such molecules in a flow mode. The obtained chips were tested for folate detection. The highly specific and sensitive measurements can be performed in real-time in a wide dynamic range of 0.9–220,000 pM. The developed method and single-use consumables are promising for concentration measurements of low molecular weight substances in pharmaceuticals and in vitro diagnostics.
A Bright Squeezed Light Source for Quantum Sensing
Authors: Yang Wenhai , Diao Wenting , Cai Chunxiao , Wu Tao , Wu Ke , Li Yu , Li Cong , Duan Chongdi , Leng Hanyang , Zi Ning , Yin Xukun
Published: December 2022

The use of optical sensing for in vivo applications is compelling, since it offers the advantages of non-invasiveness, non-ionizing radiation, and real-time monitoring. However, the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the optical signal deteriorates dramatically as the biological tissue increases. Although increasing laser power can improve the SNR, intense lasers can severely disturb biological processes and viability. Quantum sensing with bright squeezed light can make the measurement sensitivity break through the quantum noise limit under weak laser conditions. A bright squeezed light source is demonstrated to avoid the deterioration of SNR and biological damage, which integrates an external cavity frequency-doubled laser, a semi-monolithic standing cavity with periodically poled titanyl phosphate (PPKTP), and a balanced homodyne detector (BHD) assembled on a dedicated breadboard. With the rational design of the mechanical elements, the optical layout, and the feedback control equipment, a maximum non-classical noise reduction of −10.7 ± 0.2 dB is observed. The average squeeze of −10 ± 0.2 dB in continuous operation for 60 min is demonstrated. Finally, the intracavity loss of degenerate optical parametric amplifier (DOPA) and the initial bright squeezed light can be calculated to be 0.0021 and −15.5 ± 0.2 dB, respectively. Through the above experimental and theoretical analysis, the direction of improving bright squeeze level is pointed out.
Selective Detection of Folic Acid Using a Water-Stable Fluorescent CsPbBr3/Cs4PbBr6 Perovskite Nanocrystal Probe
Authors: She Wen-Zhi , Zhao Rui-Xian , Liu Jin-Zhou , Zhang Hai-Chi , Li Rong Sheng , Liu Meng-Ting , Zhou Chuan-Hua , Ling Jian , Cao Qiue
Published: December 2022

A water-stable cesium lead bromide (CsPbBr3/Cs4PbBr6) perovskite nanocrystal (PNC) was synthesized and studied as a fluorescence probe for the selective detection of folic acid (FA). The as-prepared PNCs emitted strong green fluorescence at 525 nm, and their structure was systematically characterized by X-ray powder diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The interaction between the PNCs and small biological molecules was investigated and the results indicated that the fluorescence of the PNCs could be selectively quenched by FA. The quenching rate has a linear relationship with the concentration of FA in the concentration range from 10 to 800 μM, with a correlation coefficient R2 of 0.9841, and a limit of detection (LOD, 3σ) of 1.69 μM. The mechanism of the interaction between the PNCs and FA was discussed, and the reliability of the method for real sample detection was also verified by the standard addition method. The method proposed here, using a fluorescence PNCs probe, provided a simple alternative strategy for detecting FA that will play an important role in biochemical analysis.
Er:Y2O3 and Nd:Y2O3 Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Pegylation, Characterization and Study of Their Luminescence Properties
Authors: Chiechio Regina Maria , Battaglia Rosalia , Caponnetto Angela , Butera Ester , Franzò Giorgia , Reitano Riccardo , Purrello Michele , Ragusa Marco , Barbagallo Davide , Barbagallo Cristina , Di Pietro Cinzia , Marchi Valérie , Lo Faro Maria José , Contino Annalinda , Maccarrone Giuseppe , Musumeci Paolo
Published: December 2022

Lanthanide-doped yttrium oxide nanoparticles can display selective upconversion properties, rendering them invaluable in the field of nanomedicine for both sensing and diagnostics. Different syntheses of Er:Y2O3 and Nd:Y2O3 nanoparticles (NPs) were studied and optimized to obtain small particles of regular shape and good crystallinity. The morphological and compositional characterizations of the nanoparticles were obtained with different techniques and showed that both Er:Y2O3 and Nd:Y2O3 NPs were well dispersed, with dimensions of the order of a few tens of nanometers. The photoluminescence and cathodoluminescence measurements showed that both Er:Y2O3 and Nd:Y2O3 NPs had good emission as well as upconversion. The nanophosphors were functionalized by a pegylation procedure to suppress unwanted reactions of the NPs with other biological components, making the NP systems biocompatible and the NPs soluble in water and well dispersed. The pegylated core/shell nanoparticles showed the same morphological and optical characteristics as the core, promoting their strategic role as photoactive material for theragnostics and biosensing.
Nanostructures for In Situ SERS Analysis of High-Temperature Processes
Authors: Huang Jingying , Wu Jiahao , Shao Jing , Tao Youkun
Published: December 2022

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is a highly sensitive analytical technique based on Raman scatter and utilizes the nanostructures of active metals, such as gold and silver, with roughened surfaces as a signal amplifier. With its enhancement effect and “fingerprint” ability, in situ SERS is able to capture the dynamics of microstructure evolution and trace surface species in real time, which provides direct information for the analysis of a reaction mechanism in various surface processes, including heterogeneous catalysis, electrochemical reactions, etc. To date, SERS has been widely used in operando analysis of surface processes under ordinary temperatures. For application in high-temperature processes, the harsh environment puts forward additional requirements in addition to high sensitivity for the SERS nanostructures, especially concerning thermal stability, chemical inertness, and surface universality. Therefore, it is necessary to develop specialized SERS nanostructures for in situ analysis of high-temperature processes. This paper reviews the research progress of the design and application of nanostructures for in situ SERS analysis of high-temperature processes, with special focus on how to solve the stability and sensitivity contradiction of the SERS nanostructures in the high-temperature complex environment through the design and regulation of the nanostructures. For the structure design, the strategies, preparation, and performance of the reported nanoarchitectures are compared. For the high-temperature application, the utilization of SERS nanostructures in in situ studies are summarized, including thermal crystallization, lattice dynamics, heterogeneous catalysis, and high-temperature electrode reactions.
A Survey of Screen Media Access and Use in Primary School Children’s Households
Authors: Hinten Ashley E. , Wolsey Kristina , Henderson Annette M. E. , Scarf Damian
Published: December 2022

Our primary aim was to gain a better understanding of current technology availability and use in the homes of primary school children. The online-accessible questionnaire was made available for families with a child enrolled at primary school, with over 300 families participating. The results suggest that it is common for children to be introduced to screen media early in life and that they watch a wide range of content. While many families have rules regarding their children’s technology use, screen media is a significant part of their lives, with many children exceeding the recommended two hours of viewing per day. Future research could investigate whether media access and use differ between ethnic and socio-demographic groups, and whether changes have occurred as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
Flexible Training Planning Coupled with Flexible Assessment: A 12-Week Randomized Feasibility Study in a Youth Female Volleyball Team
Authors: Loureiro Manuel , Mesquita Isabel , Ramos Ana , Coutinho Patrícia , Ribeiro João , Clemente Filipe Manuel , Nakamura Fábio Yuzo , Afonso José
Published: December 2022

According to the Quality Education and Gender Equality ambitions established at the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals, we aimed to test the feasibility of a flexible planning and assessment process, using ongoing, bidirectional feedback between planning and assessment. Eighteen players (11.5 ± 0.5 years of age) from a U13 female volleyball team were randomized into an experimental group (in which the plan could be changed daily) or a contrast group (pre-defined planning, adjusted monthly). The pedagogical intervention lasted three months. Besides ongoing daily assessments from the training practices, the Game Performance Assessment Instrument was adopted as a starting point for the weekly assessments in 4 vs. 4 game-forms (i.e., the instrument was modified monthly based on feedback from the training process). Information from daily and weekly formal assessment was used in the planning of the experimental group, and monthly in the contrast group. Data suggested that pre-established and strict planning (even updated monthly) failed to fit current learner needs. Over 12 weeks, the pre-established planning suffered regular modifications in the experimental group, and the assessment tool changed monthly. In conclusion, both planning and assessment should be open and flexible to exchange information mutually, and support the design of tailor-made learning environments.
Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Cainelli Elisa , Bisiacchi Patrizia
Published: December 2022

Recent decades have seen a dramatic increase in neurodevelopmental disorders and the attention paid to them. Since their emergence in the not-so-distant past, some neurodevelopmental disorders have undergone considerable redefinition and, beginning in the 21st century, there has been a massive increase in research. In this paper, we briefly review the history of some of them, address some of the issues that characterize their current management and relationship with neurological pathologies, and share some insights for the future.
Clinical Congenital Anophthalmos and Microphthalmos—Experiences of Patients and Their Parents after More than 10 Years of Treatment
Authors: Frech Stefanie , Schulze Schwering Markus , Schittkowski Michael P. , Guthoff Rudolf F.
Published: December 2022

Congenital clinical anophthalmos and blind microphthalmos describe the absence of an eye or the presence of a small eye in the orbit. Between 1999 and 2013, 97 children with anophthalmos or microphthalmos were treated with self-inflating, hydrophilic gel expanders at the Rostock Eye Clinic. More than a decade later, this study investigated the perspective of patients and parents regarding the treatment, the surgical outcome, and the emotional and social well-being of the patients. A total of 22 families with 16 patients sighted in the other eye and six patients blind in both eyes participated. Questionnaires were developed, including items on physical, emotional, social, and medical aspects. The patients felt emotionally stable and integrated into their social environment, with no major limitations reported by the majority. These statements were confirmed by most of the parents. Parents (67%) indicated that the success of the operation was already apparent after the first intervention and that the current situation did not play a role in the patients’ social environment. The study provided new insights into the therapy results, the postoperative care, and the social and emotional stability of the prosthesis-wearing patients, indicating the chosen expander methods as promising in terms of positive postoperative care.
One Hundred Consecutive Neutropenic Febrile Episodes Demonstrate That CXCR3 Ligands Have Predictive Value in Discriminating the Severity of Infection in Children with Cancer
Authors: Nowak Małgorzata , Bobeff Katarzyna , Walenciak Justyna , Kołodrubiec Julia , Wyka Krystyna , Młynarski Wojciech , Trelińska Joanna
Published: December 2022

This study assesses the value of the CXCR3 ligands CXCL9/MIG, CXCL10/IP-10 and CXCL11/I-TAC when used to supplement the standard infection markers C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin (PCT) in the diagnostic algorithm of neutropenic fever in children with cancer. The concentration of CRP, PCT and chemokines was determined during the first hour of fever and 12–24 h afterwards in pediatric oncology patients with neutropenia. Among 100 consecutive febrile episodes in neutropenic patients, 34 cases demonstrated fever of unknown origin (FUO) (group A), 47 demonstrated mild clinically or microbiologically proven infection (Group B) and 19 severe infection (Group C). Significantly higher PCT-1 levels were found in group C (0.24 ng/mL) vs. group A (0.16 ng/mL), and PCT-2 in group C (1.2 ng/mL) vs. A (0.17 ng/mL), and in C vs. B (0.2 ng/mL). Chemokine concentrations (I-TAC-1, IP-10-1, IP-10-2) were significantly lower in Group A vs. B+C; I-TAC 1: 48.64 vs. 70.99 pg/mL, p = 0.03; IP-10 1: 59.95 vs. 96.84 pg/mL, p = 0.04; and IP-10 2: 102.40 vs. 149.39 pg/mL, p = 0.05. The selected pro-inflammatory chemokines I-TAC and IP10 might help to distinguish cancer patients with febrile neutropenia with the highest risk of infection. Although procalcitonin could serve as a marker of a high risk of infection, its delayed response diminishes its usefulness.
Gifted Children through the Eyes of Their Parents:Talents, Social-Emotional Challenges, and Educational Strategies from Preschool through Middle School
Authors: Renati Roberta , Bonfiglio Natale Salvatore , Dilda Martina , Mascia Maria Lidia , Penna Maria Pietronilla
Published: December 2022

Few studies have been conducted analyzing the experience of raising a gifted child. The present exploratory study focused on examining the profiles of a sample of 44 gifted children, exploring aspects related to health status, precociousness of development, and peculiarities of their potentiality and peculiar emotional profile. Through the administration of a semi-structured questionnaire and an in-depth interview, the experience of parents of gifted children was also analyzed, deepening the challenges they have to face and the educational strategies they implement. The evidence that emerged helps shed light on specific aspects that characterize gifted children and have implications for family educational practices.
How Word/Non-Word Length Influence Reading Acquisition in a Transparent Language: Implications for Children’s Literacy and Development
Authors: Soares Aparecido J. C. , Sassi Fernanda C. , Fortunato-Tavares Talita , Andrade Claudia R. F. , Befi-Lopes Débora M.
Published: December 2022

Decoding skills are crucial for literacy development and they tend to be acquired early in transparent languages, such as Brazilian Portuguese. It is essential to better understand which variables may affect the decoding process. In this study, we investigated the processes of decoding as a function of age of children who are exposed to a transparent language. To this end, we examined the effects of grade, stimulus type and stimulus extension on the decoding accuracy of children between the ages of six and 10 years who are monolingual speakers of Brazilian Portuguese. The study included 250 children, enrolled from the first to the fifth grade. A list of words and pseudowords of variable length was created, based on Brazilian Portuguese structure. Children assessment was conducted using the computer program E-prime® which was used to present the stimuli. The stimuli were programmed to appear on the screen in a random order and children were instructed to read them. The results indicate two important moments for decoding: the acquisition and the mastery of decoding skills. Additionally, the results highlight an important effect of the extent and type of stimuli and how it interacts with the school progress. Moreover, data indicate the multifactorial nature of decoding acquisition and the different interactions between variables that can influence this process. We discuss medium- and long-term implications of it, and possible individual and collective actions which can improve this process.
A Cross-Sectional Study to Measure Physical Activity with Accelerometry in ADHD Children according to Presentations
Authors: Villalba-Heredia Lorena , Rodríguez Celestino , Santana Zaira , Nuñez José Carlos , Méndez-Giménez Antonio
Published: December 2022

(1) Background: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common mental disorder affecting 5–7% of school-aged children. Previous studies have looked at the effects of physical activity interventions on the symptoms of ADHD, although few have compared the motor behavior of children with ADHD versus those without. This exploratory study provides detailed information on the patterns and intensity of physical activity and sedentary behavior in children with ADHD as measured by Actigraph GT3X accelerometry, as well as the differences in physical activity in the different presentations of ADHD; (2) Methods: A cross-sectional design was used with a sample of 75 children, aged 6 to 12 years, with and without ADHD. The ADHD group had a previous diagnosis, determined by clinical assessment based on DSM-5 criteria; (3) Results: Physical activity levels were higher in children with ADHD compared to children without ADHD, but there was no difference in sedentary time between groups during weekdays or weekends. Physical activity decreased with age, with significant differences in the ADHD group, who exhibited more minutes of moderate Physical activity in 6–7 year-olds than 10–11 year-olds during weekdays and weekends; (4) Conclusions: Sedentary time increased by age in children without ADHD, and there was a decrease in moderate-intensity physical activity time in children with ADHD by age.
Molecular Genetic Analysis of Ukrainian Families with Congenital Cataracts
Authors: Jiao Xiaodong , Viswanathan Mariia , Bobrova Nadiia Fedorivna , Romanova Tatiana Viktorivna , Hejtmancik J. Fielding
Published: December 2022

This study was designed to identify the pathogenic variants in five Ukrainian families with autosomal dominant congenital cataracts. Cataracts can be defined broadly as any opacity of the crystalline lens. Lens development is orchestrated by transcription factors. Disease-causing variants in transcription factors and their developmental target genes, including the lens crystallins, are associated with congenital cataracts and other eye diseases. Whole-exome sequencing identified heterozygous disease-causing variants in five Ukrainian families with autosomal dominant congenital cataracts and cosegregation with cataracts was confirmed using Sanger sequencing. Family 97001 showed a missense variant (c.341T>A: p.L114Q) in HSF4; family 97003 showed a missense variant (c.53A>T: p.N18I) in CRYGA; family 97004 showed a missense variant (c. 82G>A: p.V28M) in GJA3; family 97006 showed a missense variant (c.83C>T: p. P28L) in CRYGC; and family 97008 showed a single-base insertion resulting in a frameshift (c.443_444insA: p. Met148IfsTer51) in PAX6. All five families are associated with congenital cataracts. Overall, we report four novel mutations in HSF4, CRYGA, CRYGC and PAX6, and one previously reported mutation in GJA3 that cause autosomal dominant congenital cataracts.
Time Duration of Post-Activation Performance Enhancement (PAPE) in Elite Male Sprinters with Different Strength Levels
Authors: Guo Wenxia , Liang Meifu , Lin Junlei , Zhou Ruihang , Zhao Ningning , Aidar Felipe J. , Oliveira Rafael , Badicu Georgian
Published: December 2022

(1) Purpose: This study aimed to explore the time duration of post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) in elite male sprinters with different strength levels. (2) Methods: Thirteen elite male sprinters were divided into a strong group (relative strength: 1RM squat normalized by body mass of ≥2.5; n = 6) and a weak group (relative strength of <2.5; n = 7). All sprinters performed one static squat jump (SSJ) at baseline and 15 s, 3 min, 6 min, 9 min, and 12 min following an exercise protocol including three reps of a 90% 1RM back squat. Two force plates were used to determine the vertical jump height, the impulse output, and the power output for all SSJs. (3) Results: Significant improvements in vertical jump height and peak impulse were observed (p < 0.05) at 3, 6, and 9 min, without significant between-group differences. The peak power had a significant increase in 3 min (p < 0.01) and 6 min (p < 0.05), with also no significant difference between-group differences. Moreover, the stronger subjects induced a greater PAPE effect than the weaker counterparts at 3, 6, and 9 min after the intervention. The maximal benefit following the intervention occurred at 6 min and 3 min after the intervention in the stronger and weaker subjects, respectively. (4) Conclusions: The findings indicated that three reps of a 90% 1RM back squat augmented the subsequent explosive movement (SSJ) for 3–9 min in elite male sprinters, especially in stronger sprinters.
Traumatic Experiences in Childhood and Maternal Depressive Symptomatology: Their Impact on Parenting in Preschool
Authors: Santelices María Pía , de los Ángeles Fernández María , Wendland Jaqueline
Published: December 2022

The goal of this study is to describe and analyze the relationship between childhood trauma and depressive symptoms and its relation to the parental interactions of mothers (19–47 years) with their 3–4 year old preschool children. Parental interactions, traumatic experiences in mothers’ childhood, and current depressive symptoms were measured using the Parenting Interactions with Children: Checklist of Observations Linked to Outcomes (PICCOLO), the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire Short Form (CTQ), and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-I), respectively. A nonclinical sample of 81 Chilean mothers with their children was used. Results show that the presence of trauma in mothers’ childhood has an impact on parenting; specifically, mothers with an emotional neglect experience showed greater difficulties in adequately promoting autonomy in their children.
Development of a Novel Multi-Disciplinary Specialized Care Service for Children and Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder and/or Intellectual/Developmental Disability in a Tertiary Children’s Hospital Setting
Authors: Huber Joelene F. , Loh Alvin , Monga Suneeta , Esufali Jessica , Shouldice Michelle
Published: December 2022

Children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and/or Intellectual/Developmental Disability (IDD) are at greater risk of developing comorbid medical conditions, mental health diagnoses, behavioral challenges, and having overall poorer physical and mental health outcomes. Hospital environments present unique stressors and challenges for children and adolescents with ASD/IDD including a change in familiar environment, unpredictable routines, and exposure to sensory stimuli that may be overwhelming. While many school boards have specialized multi-disciplinary special needs support teams and services made up of professionals with expertise in supporting students with ASD/IDD, most hospitals do not have a formal multi-disciplinary ASD/IDD support team in place to support patients, families, and health care staff across the hospital. There is an emerging recognition of the need for specialized multi-disciplinary developmental-behavioral and mental health expertise in hospital inpatient settings. This paper describes the framework for the development of an innovative multi-disciplinary program to better support children and adolescents with ASD/IDD within a tertiary children’s hospital setting.
Liver Damage and microRNAs: An Update
Authors: Cione Erika , Abrego Guandique Diana Marisol , Caroleo Maria Cristina , Luciani Filippo , Colosimo Manuela , Cannataro Roberto
Published: December 2022

One of the major organs in the body with multiple functions is the liver. It plays a central role in the transformation of macronutrients and clearance of chemicals and drugs. The serum biomarkers often used to indicate liver damage are not specifically for drug-induced liver injury (DILI) or liver injury caused by other xenobiotics, nor for viral infection. In this case, microRNAs (miRNAs) could play an exciting role as biomarkers of specific liver damage. In this review, we aimed to update the current literature on liver damage induced by drugs, as acute conditions and viral infections mediated by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) linked these two conditions to advanced research, with a focus on microRNAs as early biomarkers for liver damage. The undoubtable evidence that circulating miR-122 could be used as a human biomarker of DILI came from several studies in which a strong increase of it was linked with the status of liver function. In infancy, there is the possibility of an early miRNA detection for hepatitis B virus infection, but there are a lack of solid models for studying the HVB molecular mechanism of infection in detail, even if miRNAs do hold unrealized potential as biomarkers for early detection of hepatitis B virus infection mediated by HBV.
Genome-Wide Identification and Characterization of the AlkB Gene Family in Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis)
Authors: Huang Aijun , Wang Ying , Gu Peipei , Yang Zhixun , Han Junna , Yi Long
Published: December 2022

Sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) is a sub-tropical fruit crop with important economic value that is popular worldwide; however, various pathogens significantly affect citrus cultivation and distribution. AlkB homolog (ALKBH) proteins play crucial roles in RNA metabolism and translation in plants; however, no systematic investigations have been performed on ALKBH in sweet oranges. In this study, ten ALKBH gene family members were identified in Citrus sinensis genome. Standardized analyses, including physical properties, phylogenetic analysis, gene structure, motif composition, cis-acting element prediction, chromosome distribution, and synteny analysis, were conducted. The phylogenetic analysis suggested that the ten proteins were clustered into three groups, each of which had similar motifs and gene structures. Gene expression profiling revealed that almost all CsALKBH proteins were highly expressed in callus, and ALKBH9/10-like group members responded positively to biotic stress. Overall, this study is the first to report a genome-wide assessment of the ALKBH family in sweet oranges and provides valuable insights for candidate gene selection and elucidating the molecular mechanism of sweet orange response to pathogenic infections.
A Novel Bias Correction Method for Extreme Events
Authors: Trentini Laura , Dal Gesso Sara , Venturini Marco , Guerrini Federica , Calmanti Sandro , Petitta Marcello
Published: December 2022

When one is using climate simulation outputs, one critical issue to consider is the systematic bias affecting the modelled data. The bias correction of modelled data is often used when one is using impact models to assess the effect of climate events on human activities. However, the efficacy of most of the currently available methods is reduced in the case of extreme events because of the limited number of data for these low probability and high impact events. In this study, a novel bias correction methodology is proposed, which corrects the bias of extreme events. To do so, we extended one of the most popular bias correction techniques, i.e., quantile mapping (QM), by improving the description of extremes through a generalised extreme value distribution (GEV) fitting. The technique was applied to the daily mean temperature and total precipitation data from three seasonal forecasting systems: SEAS5, System7 and GCFS2.1. The bias correction efficiency was tested over the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, which includes 15 Southern African countries. The performance was verified by comparing each of the three models with a reference dataset, the ECMWF reanalysis ERA5. The results reveal that this novel technique significantly reduces the systematic biases in the forecasting models, yielding further improvements over the classic QM. For both the mean temperature and total precipitation, the bias correction produces a decrease in the Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) and in the bias between the simulated and the reference data. After bias correcting the data, the ensemble forecasts members that correctly predict the temperature extreme increases. On the other hand, the number of members identifying precipitation extremes decreases after the bias correction.
Extreme Coastal Water Levels Evolution at Dakar (Senegal, West Africa)
Authors: Cissé Cheikh Omar Tidjani , Almar Rafael , Youm Jean Paul Marcel , Jolicoeur Serge , Taveneau Adelaide , Sy Boubou Aldiouma , Sakho Issa , Sow Bamol Ali , Dieng Habib
Published: December 2022

Increasingly, it is reported that the coastline of the Dakar region is affected by coastal flooding due to extreme water levels during wave events. Here, we quantify the extreme coastal water levels as well as the different factors contributing to coastal flooding during the period 1994–2015. Severe water levels reach values of 1.78 m and increase by 8.4 mm/year. The time spent above this threshold has already increased by 1.7 over the study period and will increase by 2100 to 8 times with 0.4 m mean sea level rise and up to 20 times with 0.8 m in the IPCC low and high greenhouse gas emission scenarios, respectively. Tide is the main contributor to the extremes when combined with large wave runup, due to wave breaking which contributes to 38% of the increase in extreme events while sea level rises to 44%. Our results show that because of its prominent location, Dakar region is affected by waves coming from the Northern and Southern Hemispheres with contrasted evolutions: wave runup events increase faster (7 mm/year) during austral winter due to a maximum of the South Atlantic storm activity, and have a decreasing trend (−3 mm/year) during boreal winter (December, January, February) driven by the evolution of corresponding climate modes.
Automatic Recognition of Microstructures of Air-Plasma-Sprayed Thermal Barrier Coatings Using a Deep Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Shan Xiao , Huang Tianmeng , Luo Lirong , Lu Jie , Cai Huangyue , Zhao Junwei , Sheng Gang , Zhao Xiaofeng
Published: December 2022

Either to obtain desirable microstructures by adjusting processing parameters or to predict the properties of a thermal barrier coating (TBC) according to its microstructure, fast and reliable quantitation of the microstructure is imperative. In this research, a machine-learning-based approach—a deep convolution neural network (DCNN)—was established to accurately quantify the microstructure of air-plasma-sprayed (APS) TBCs based on 2D images. Four scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images (view field: 150 μm × 150 μm, image size: 3072 pixel × 3072 pixel) were taken and labeled to train the DCNN. After training, the DCNN could recognize correctly 98.5% of the pixels in the SEM images of typical APS TBCs. This study demonstrated that a small dataset of SEM images could be enough to train a DCNN, making it a powerful and feasible method for quantitively characterizing the microstructure osf APS TBCs.
Lavender Essential Oil as Antibacterial Treatment for Packaging Paper
Authors: Todorova Dimitrina , Yavorov Nikolay , Lasheva Veska , Damyanova Stanka , Kostova Iliana
Published: December 2022

Based on many years of experience, packaging is considered as an inactive barrier that protects materials and goods from environmental factors. The applicability of native chemical additive such as essential oils in wrapping papers can be used in the forms of films, treatments, coatings or others. Essential oils or extracts from different aromatic plants are used as bioactive substances for antimicrobial activity. In this research, lavender essential oil treatment of packaging papers is examined for its inhibition activity under nine microorganisms—two Gram-positive bacteria, three Gram-negative bacteria, two yeast and two fungal strains. The effectiveness of the treatment on the structural and strength indicators of the obtained paper samples is monitored. In detail, a five-day examination is conducted on the antibacterial effectiveness of lavender essential oil treatment. Results indicate that the lavender treatment of the obtained packaging paper is successful and the antifungal effect is more pronounced. The antimicrobial efficiency of paper treated with lavender essential oil is between 60 and 90% in the first two hours after treatment and gradually decreases to 40%–50% at the end of the 120 h period. The lavender essential oil treatment of wrapping paper has a promising perspective for preserving products from microbial spoilage and extending their shelf life.
Multilayered Edible Coatings to Enhance Some Quality Attributes of Ready-to-Eat Cherimoya (Annona cherimola)
Authors: Rossi-Márquez Giovanna , Dávalos-Saucedo Cristian Aarón , Mayek-Pérez Netzahualcóyotl , Di Pierro Prospero
Published: December 2022

Multilayer coating can be applied on fresh fruit to protect and enhance its shelf life. This study evaluated the application of a multilayer protein and chitosan coating on fresh cherimoya. To determinate the effect of the multilayer coating on the shelf life on the fruit, total phenolic content, pH, °Brix, weight loss, and hardness values were tested. The ripening process is associated with an increase of soluble solids, and results showed that the presence of the multilayered coating maintains the total phenolic content, pH, and °Brix values over time while reducing the water loss. This effect is probably due to the presence of the coating that creates a barrier on the food surface that reduces the respiration rate and affects the ripening process, demonstrating the method’s feasibility to be used to enhance the shelf life of fresh-cut cherimoya.
Previously Unrecorded Invasive Species and the Unsatisfying Knowledge of Turtle Communities in Northern Vietnam
Authors: Ducotterd Charlotte , Le Duc Olivier , Van Pham Thong , Leprince Benjamin , Bordes Cédric , Nghiêm Thinh Ly , Thu Phuong Ho , Le An Thanh , Tran Bao Quang , Luu Vinh Quang , Luiselli Luca
Published: December 2022

According to the IUCN, Southeast Asia is the area of the world with the highest number of threatened turtle species. The current status of chelonians is particularly catastrophic in Vietnam. However, there is still a lack of field data to unambiguously support this fact for a few species. To better understand the freshwater turtle diversity and eventually undertake efficient conservation actions, we conducted surveys with local fishers using standardized questionnaires in two independent river systems in northern Vietnam. A total of 112 questionnaires were administered to as many fishers in April and October 2022. We directly observed four sympatric freshwater species (Pelodiscus sinensis, Palea steindachneri, Mauremys sinensis and Sacalia quadriocellata) in Lao Cai and Yen Bai provinces, and two species (Pelodiscus sinensis and Palea steindachneri) in Bac Giang, Hai Duong, Thai Binh, and Hung Yen provinces. Based on the interviews, we added as possible the presence of two other species (Rafetus swinhoei and Pelochelys cantorii) in each of the two study areas. Moreover, we recorded for the first time in Vietnam, two wild individuals of an invasive alien species, the Common snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina), confirming that the distribution and ecology of turtle species in Vietnam is poorly understood. Furthermore, recent photos (year 2019) of a 38 kg softshell turtle, possibly attributable to Rafetus swinhoei, were recorded from a restaurant in the area. In conclusion, interviews with local fishers have been found to be useful for exploring the likely presence and the local distribution of the various turtle species.
Development of Hydrogen-Bonded Dimer-Type Photoluminescent Liquid Crystals of Fluorinated Tolanecarboxylic Acid
Authors: Yamada Shigeyuki , Kataoka Mitsuki , Yoshida Keigo , Nagata Masakazu , Agou Tomohiro , Fukumoto Hiroki , Konno Tsutomu
Published: December 2022

Functional molecules possessing photoluminescence (PL) and liquid-crystalline (LC) behaviors, known as photoluminescent liquid crystals, along with a small molecular structure, have attracted significant attention. Fluorinated tolane skeletons are small π-conjugated structures, which are promising candidates for such functional molecules. These structures were revealed to exhibit strong PL in solid state but no LC behavior. Based on a report on hydrogen-bonded dimer-type LC molecules of carboxylic acid, in this study, we designed and synthesized a series of fluorinated tolanecarboxylic acids (2,3,5,6-tetrafluoro-4-[2-(4-alkoxyphenyl)ethyn-1-yl]benzoic acids) as promising PLLC molecules. Evaluation of the LC behavior revealed that fluorinated tolanecarboxylic acids with a longer alkoxy chain than a butoxy chain exhibited nematic LC behavior. Additionally, fluorinated tolanecarboxylic acids showed intense PL in the solution and crystalline states. Notably, fluorinated tolanecarboxylic acid with an aggregated structure in the nematic LC phase also exhibited PL with a slight blue shift in PL maximum wavelength compared to the crystalline state. The present fluorinated tolanecarboxylic acid exhibiting PL and LC characteristics in a single molecule can be applied to thermoresponsive PL materials, such as a PL thermosensor.
GaAs Molecular Beam Epitaxy on (110)-Oriented Substrates
Authors: Klimov Evgeniy , Klochkov Aleksey , Pushkarev Sergey , Galiev Galib , Galiev Rinat , Yuzeeva Nataliya , Zaitsev Aleksey , Volkovsky Yury , Seregin Alexey , Prosekov Pavel
Published: December 2022

Molecular-beam epitaxial growth of Si-doped GaAs single-crystal layers on (110)-oriented GaAs substrates has been studied. The surface morphology of grown films was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy, and the crystal structure of grown films was estimated by X-ray grazing incidence diffraction, in-plane pole figures, reciprocal space mapping, and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The type, concentration, and mobility of charge carriers in films were measured by the four-probe method in van der Pauw geometry at temperatures of 300 and 77 K. The possible existence of two areas in growth conditions, where increased concentration and mobility of electrons are achieved, was shown: the first, main area with the highest concentration and mobility values is Tg = 450–500 °C and V/III ratio γ = 20–40, the second, minor one is Tg = 600–680 °C and γ = 40–70. The hole conductivity was obtained at a growth temperature of 580 °C and a low γ value of 16. It was also shown that the defect-free crystal structure of the films grown at high temperatures is not necessarily accompanied by a smooth surface.