bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Insight into Screening for Antioxidant Peptides from Hazelnut Protein: Based on the Properties of Amino Acid Residues
Authors: Shi Chenshan , Liu Miaomiao , Zhao Hongfei , Lv Zhaolin , Liang Lisong , Zhang Bolin
Published: January 2022

This study used the properties of amino acid residues to screen antioxidant peptides from hazelnut protein. It was confirmed that the type and position of amino acid residues, grand average of hydropathy, and molecular weight of a peptide could be comprehensively applied to obtain desirable antioxidants after analyzing the information of synthesized dipeptides and BIOPEP database. As a result, six peptides, FSEY, QIESW, SEGFEW, IDLGTTY, GEGFFEM, and NLNQCQRYM were identified from hazelnut protein hydrolysates with higher antioxidant capacity than reduced Glutathione (GSH) against linoleic acid oxidation. The peptides having Tyr residue at C-terminal were found to prohibit the oxidation of linoleic acid better than others. Among them, peptide FSEY inhibited the rancidity of hazelnut oil very well in an oil-in-water emulsion. Additionally, quantum chemical parameters proved Tyr-residue to act as the active site of FSEY are responsible for its antioxidation. This is the first presentation of a novel approach to excavating desired antioxidant peptides against lipid oxidation from hazelnut protein via the properties of amino acid residues.
Activity-Dependent Neuroprotective Protein (ADNP)-Derived Peptide (NAP) Counteracts UV-B Radiation-Induced ROS Formation in Corneal Epithelium
Authors: Maugeri Grazia , D’Amico Agata Grazia , Giunta Salvatore , Giallongo Cesarina , Tibullo Daniele , Bucolo Claudio , Saccone Salvatore , Federico Concetta , Scollo Davide , Longo Antonio , Avitabile Teresio , Musumeci Giuseppe , D’Agata Velia
Published: January 2022

The corneal epithelium, the outermost layer of the cornea, acts as a dynamic barrier preventing access to harmful agents into the intraocular space. It is subjected daily to different insults, and ultraviolet B (UV-B) irradiation represents one of the main causes of injury. In our previous study, we demonstrated the beneficial effects of pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) against UV-B radiation damage in the human corneal endothelium. Some of its effects are mediated through the activation of the intracellular factor, known as the activity-dependent protein (ADNP). In the present paper, we have investigated the role of ADNP and the small peptide derived from ADNP, known as NAP, in the corneal epithelium. Here, we have demonstrated, for the first time, ADNP expression in human and rabbit corneal epithelium as well as its protective effect by treating the corneal epithelial cells exposed to UV-B radiations with NAP. Our results showed that NAP treatment prevents ROS formation by reducing UV-B-irradiation-induced apoptotic cell death and JNK signalling pathway activation. Further investigations are needed to deeply investigate the possible therapeutic use of NAP to counteract corneal UV-B damage.
Evolutionary Maximization of Energy Amount Harvested by Means of Panel of Thermoelectric Modules
Authors: Golonek Tomasz
Published: January 2022

This work proposes the use of a specialized algorithm based on evolutionary computation to the global MPPT regulation of panel of thermoelectric modules connected serially in numerous string sections. Each section of the thermovoltaic panel is equipped with local DC/DC converter controlled by the proposed algorithm and finally this allows the optimization of the total efficiency of conversion. Evolutionary computations adjust PWM signals of switching waveforms of DC/DC sectional simple boost converters, which have outputs configured in parallel. It gives the chance to obtain the highest level of electric energy harvested, i.e., thanks to boost converting operational points precise adaptation to the system temperature profile as well as electric load level. The simulation results of the proposed evolutionary technique confirmed the high speed of the MPPT process that is much better than for perturbation and observation, as well as incremental conductance methods, and it assures concurrent optimization of numerous PWM signals. Next, the work shows practical optimization results achieved by the proposed algorithm implemented to microcontroller module controlling the DC/DC converter during thermal to electric conversion experiment. A laboratory thermovoltaic panel was constructed from a string of Peltier modules and radiator that assured passive cooling. The measurements obtained once more proved the MPPT evolutionary regulation properness and its adaptation effectiveness for different resistive test loads.
FDG PET/CT versus Bone Marrow Biopsy for Diagnosis of Bone Marrow Involvement in Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: A Systematic Review
Authors: Almaimani Jawaher , Tsoumpas Charalampos , Feltbower Richard , Polycarpou Irene
Published: January 2022

The management of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) patients requires the identification of bone marrow involvement (BMI) using a bone marrow biopsy (BMB), as recommended by international guidelines. Multiple studies have shown that [18F]FDG positron emission tomography, combined with computed tomography (PET/CT), may provide important information and may detect BMI, but there is still an ongoing debate as to whether it is sensitive enough for NHL patients in order to replace or be used as a complimentary method to BMB. The objective of this article is to systematically review published studies on the performance of [18F]FDG PET/CT in detecting BMI compared to the BMB for NHL patients. A population, intervention, comparison, and outcome (PICO) search in PubMed and Scopus databases (until 1 November 2021) was performed. A total of 41 studies, comprising 6147 NHL patients, were found to be eligible and were included in the analysis conducted in this systematic review. The sensitivity and specificity for identifying BMI in NHL patients were 73% and 90% for [18F]FDG PET/CT and 56% and 100% for BMB. For aggressive NHL, the sensitivity and specificity to assess the BMI for the [18F]FDG PET/CT was 77% and 94%, while for the BMB it was 58% and 100%. However, sensitivity and specificity to assess the BMI for indolent NHL for the [18F]FDG PET/CT was 59% and 85%, while for the BMB it was superior, and equal to 94% and 100%. With regard to NHL, a [18F]FDG PET/CT scan can only replace BMB if it is found to be positive and if patients can be categorized as having advanced staged NHL with high certainty. [18F]FDG PET/CT might recover tumors missed by BMB, and is recommended for use as a complimentary method, even in indolent histologic subtypes of NHL.
Metaheuristic with Cooperative Processes for the University Course Timetabling Problem
Authors: Cruz-Rosales Martín H. , Cruz-Chávez Marco Antonio , Alonso-Pecina Federico , Peralta-Abarca Jesus del C. , Ávila-Melgar Erika Yesenia , Martínez-Bahena Beatriz , Enríquez-Urbano Juana
Published: January 2022

This work presents a metaheuristic with distributed processing that finds solutions for an optimization model of the university course timetabling problem, where collective communication and point-to-point communication are applied, which are used to generate cooperation between processes. The metaheuristic performs the optimization process with simulated annealing within each solution that each process works. The highlight of this work is presented in the algorithmic design for optimizing the problem by applying cooperative processes. In each iteration of the proposed heuristics, collective communication allows the master process to identify the process with the best solution and point-to-point communication allows the best solution to be sent to the master process so that it can be distributed to all the processes in progress in order to direct the search toward a space of solutions which is close to the best solution found at the time. This search is performed by applying simulated annealing. On the other hand, the mathematical representation of an optimization model present in the literature of the university course timing problem is performed. The results obtained in this work show that the proposed metaheuristics improves the results of other metaheuristics for all test instances. Statistical analysis shows that the proposed metaheuristic presents a different behavior from the other metaheuristics with which it is compared.
Reliable Fault Tolerant-Based Multipath Routing Model for Industrial Wireless Control Systems
Authors: Abdulrab Hakim , Hussin Fawnizu Azmadi , Abd Aziz Azrina , Awang Azlan , Ismail Idris , Devan P. Arun Mozhi
Published: January 2022

Communication in industrial wireless networks necessitates reliability and precision. Besides, the existence of interference or traffic in the network must not affect the estimated network properties. Therefore, data packets have to be sent within a certain time frame and over a reliable connection. However, the working scenarios and the characteristics of the network itself make it vulnerable to node or link faults, which impact the transmission reliability and overall performance. This article aims to introduce a developed multipath routing model, which leads to cost-effective planning, low latency and high reliability of industrial wireless mesh networks, such as the WirelessHART networks. The multipath routing model has three primary paths, and each path has a backup node. The backup node stores the data transmitted by the parent node to grant communication continuity when primary nodes fail. The multipath routing model is developed based on optimal network planning and deployment algorithm. Simulations were conducted on a WirelessHART simulator using Network Simulator (NS2). The performance of the developed model is compared with the state-of-the-art. The obtained results reveal a significant reduction in the average network latency, low power consumption, better improvement in expected network lifetime, and enhanced packet delivery ratio which improve network reliability.
A Super-Resolution Reconstruction Driven Helmet Detection Workflow
Authors: Liu Yicheng , Li Zhipeng , Zhan Bixiong , Han Ju , Liu Yan
Published: January 2022

The degrading of input images due to the engineering environment decreases the performance of helmet detection models so as to prevent their application in practice. To overcome this problem, we propose an end-to-end helmet monitoring system, which implements a super-resolution (SR) reconstruction driven helmet detection workflow to detect helmets for monitoring tasks. The monitoring system consists of two modules, the super-resolution reconstruction module and the detection module. The former implements the SR algorithm to produce high-resolution images, the latter performs the helmet detection. Validations are performed on both a public dataset as well as the realistic dataset obtained from a practical construction site. The results show that the proposed system achieves a promising performance and surpasses the competing methods. It will be a promising tool for construction monitoring and is easy to be extended to corresponding tasks.
Research Progress on Curved Plates in China: Applications in Architecture
Authors: Song Yiheng , Wang Ziying , Chen Jie , Chen Jinxiang
Published: January 2022

Curved surfaces can give plates a unique aesthetic effect and physical advantages in acoustics and optics. Assembling such curved plates can greatly improve the image of buildings and enrich their functions. It is thus not surprising to notice that their wide applications in designed or completed buildings in China have become a trend. Thus, this study offers a comprehensive summary of the application progress of curved plates in the architectural field from three aspects: image expression, acoustic characteristics, and optical characteristics. On this basis, future directions are proposed. The main findings or suggestions are as follows: (1) climate harshness has increased recently, and the safety of structures and materials and the coupling effect of the two must be fully considered when designing the shapes of curved surface buildings; (2) research on the mechanism and numerical calculation of curved diffuser systems with different sizes and curvatures needs to be further developed; and (3) experimental studies of various and complex curved plates and different conditions to explore their optimal reflectivity, transmittance, absorptivity, and other optical properties will be an important development direction.
The Effect of Thermal Treatment on Selected Properties and Content of Biologically Active Compounds in Potato Crisps
Authors: Kita Agnieszka , Kołodziejczyk Martyna , Michalska-Ciechanowska Anna , Brzezowska Jessica , Wicha-Komsta Katarzyna , Turski Waldemar
Published: January 2022

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of blanching and frying on selected properties of potato crisps of yellow- and purple-fleshed cultivars. The material used was yellow flesh cv. Ismena and purple flesh cv. Provita. Potato slices were blanched (1–5 min at 80–90 °C) and then fried (155–175 °C). The control sample was comprised of crisps that were not blanched. The fat content and color parameters were determined in crisps, while in defatted samples, the following were determined: the content of total polyphenols; antioxidant capacity, measured by the ability to scavenge the ABTS•+ radical cations (TEAC ABTS) and by the FRAP method; and the level of fluorescent intermediary compounds (FICs) and browning index (BI), as indicators of the progress of the Maillard reaction. The content of kynurenic acid (KYNA) was examined in the raw material, in slices, in the water after blanching and in the crisps. Blanching affected the fat absorption, with time being more critical than temperature. The color of crisps from yellow flesh potatoes after blanching lightened, while the color in the purple samples darkened. The content of total polyphenols was higher in purple crisps. Increasing the temperature and shortening the time of blanching increased the polyphenol content and the antioxidant capacity. Blanching decreased the level of FICs, while frying increased FICs. Higher BI values characterized the crisps from cv. Provita. Blanching reduced BI values by 50%, while frying at highest temperature increased these values. The content of KYNA in purple potatoes was almost three times higher than in yellow ones. Blanching and frying decreased the KYNA content in potatoes and fried crisps.
MSSA: Constant Time State Search through Multi-Scope State Area
Authors: Jing Linan , Wang Jinlin , Chen Xiao
Published: January 2022

In the stateful data plane, the switch can record the state and forward packets based on the local state. This approach makes it possible to integrate complex network applications into the data plane, thus reducing the amount of communication required between the switch and the controller. However, due to the time it takes to look up the state for packets, packet-forwarding latency has increased. With increased network traffic, a large number of states may be recorded in the switch, and the problem of increased packet-forwarding latency caused by the lookup state becomes more serious. In this paper, we propose the multi-scope state area (MSSA) for recording state inside the switch, which can achieve a fixed-time state lookup in a large-scale state. MSSA divides the state sharing scope by associating with the switch’s multiple match–action tables, and the shared scope is used to determine the state area for recording state. When processing a packet, the state required will only be in a limited number of states that are recorded in a few state areas. We implemented a prototype pipeline that supports MSSA based on Intel’s DPDK framework and investigated the effect of state type, number, location, and comparison method on state search/insertion time. The results show that the cost of MSSA search state is constant, regardless of the number of states, and MSSA has a high space utilization rate.
Phage Display Preparation of Specific Polypeptides in Atherosclerotic Foam Cells
Authors: Ji Xiang , Liu Dan , Wu Feng , Cen Yu , Ma Lan
Published: January 2022

Atherosclerosis and related complications are the most common causes of death in modern societies. Macrophage-derived foam cells play critical roles in the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis. Effective, rapid, and instrument-independent detection in the early stage of chronic atherosclerosis progression could provide an opportunity for early intervention and treatment. Therefore, as a starting point, in this study, we aimed to isolate and prepare foam cell-specific polypeptides using a phage display platform. The six target polypeptides, which were acquired in this study, were evaluated by ELISA and showed strong specificity with foam cells. Streptavidin coupled quantum dots (QDs) were used as fluorescence developing agents, and images of biotin-modified polypeptides specifically binding with foam cells were clearly observed. The polypeptides obtained in this study could lay the foundation for developing a rapid detection kit for early atherosclerosis lesions and could provide new materials for research on the mechanisms of foam cell formation and the development of blocking drugs.
Special Issue: Novel Approaches for Nondestructive Testing and Evaluation
Authors: Lee Jinyi , Lee Hoyong , Berkache Azouaou
Published: January 2022

Nondestructive testing and evaluation (NDT&E) is one of the most important techniques for determining the quality and safety of materials, components, devices, and structures [...]
CAD-MBSE Interoperability for the Checking of Design Requirements Based on Assemblability Indicators
Authors: Brahmi Rihab , Belhadj Imen , Hammadi Moncef , Aifaoui Nizar , Choley Jean-Yves
Published: January 2022

A mechanical product is the result of collaboration between different domains. In this paper we focus on the collaborative work that brings together the system engineer and the designer in the realization process of a mechanical system. A design solution, conceived in the CAD environment, is considered valid if all the specification requirements, defined in the MBSE (Model Based System Engineering) domain, are met. Thus, the preliminary study of these requirements has a major influence on the choice and validation of the design solution. In this paper a methodology for handling the requirements has been detailed. These requirements are classified into two main categories. The first one deals with the product performance and the second addresses the process performance in order to generate the best assembly sequence. Depending on the response of the designed solution to these requirements, it becomes easy to decide not only whether the design solution can be validated or not but also to choose the most optimal assembly sequence that ensures the best operation quality. A validation example of a speed reducer is used to demonstrate the added value of the proposed approach.
Non-Linear Analysis of River System Dynamics Using Recurrence Quantification Analysis
Authors: Fragkou Athanasios , Charakopoulos Avraam , Karakasidis Theodoros , Liakopoulos Antonios
Published: January 2022

Understanding the underlying processes and extracting detailed characteristics of rivers is critical and has not yet been fully developed. The purpose of this study was to examine the performance of non-linear time series methods on environmental data. Specifically, we performed an analysis of water level measurements, extracted from sensors, located on specified stations along the Nestos River (Greece), with Recurrence Plots (RP) and Recurrence Quantification Analysis (RQA) methods. A more detailed inspection with the sliding windows (epoqs) method was applied on the Recurrence Rate, Average Diagonal Line and Trapping Time parameters, with results showing phase transitions providing useful information about the dynamics of the system. The suggested method seems to be promising for the detection of the dynamical transitions that can characterize distinct time windows of the time series and reveals information about the changes in state within the whole time series. The results will be useful for designing the energy policy investments of producers and also will be helpful for dam management assessment as well as government energy policy.
Analysis and Sources Identification of Atmospheric PM10 and Its Cation and Anion Contents in Makkah, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Habeebullah Turki M. , Munir Said , Zeb Jahan , Morsy Essam A.
Published: January 2022

In this paper, atmospheric water-soluble cation and anion contents of PM10 are analysed in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. PM10 samples were collected at five sites for a whole year. PM10 concentrations (µg/m3) ranged from 82.11 to 739.61 at Aziziyah, 65.37 to 421.71 at Sanaiyah, 25.20 to 466.60 at Misfalah, 52.56 to 507.23 at Abdeyah, and 40.91 to 471.99 at Askan. Both daily and annual averaged PM10 concentrations exceeded WHO and Saudi Arabia national air quality limits. Daily averaged PM10 concentration exceeded the national air quality limits of 340 µg/m3, 32% of the time at Aziziyah, 8% of the time at Sanaiyah, and 6% of the time at the other three sites. On average, the cations and anions made a 37.81% contribution to the PM10 concentrations. SO42−, NO3−, Ca2+, Na+, and Cl− contributed 50.25%, 16.43%, 12.11%, 11.12%, and 8.70% to the total ion concentrations, respectively. The minor ions (F−, Br−, Mg2+, NO2−, and PO43−) contributed just over 1% to the ion mass. Four principal components explained 89% variations in PM10 concentrations. Four major emission sources were identified: (a) Road traffic, including emission from the exhaust, wear-and-tear, and the resuspension of dust particles (F−, SO42−, NO3−, Ca2+, Na+, Mg+, Br−, Cl−, NO2−, PO43−); (b) Mineral dust (Cl−, F−, Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+, PO43−); (c) Industries and construction–demolition work (F−, SO42−, Ca2+, Mg2+); and (d) Seaspray and marine aerosols (Cl−, Br−, Mg2+, Na+). Future work would include an analysis of the metal contents of PM10 and their spatiotemporal variability in Makkah.
Understanding NO2 Concentration Dynamics within Tema Metropolitan Area of Ghana Using Generalized Linear Model
Authors: Sarpong Smart Asomaning , Donkoh Racheal Fosu , Lee Youngjo
Published: January 2022

The concentration of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is worsening across the globe alongside growth in industrial and general anthropogenic activities. Due to its serious health implications with long-term exposure, studies on NO2 concentration have gained space in the academic literature. In this study, awareness is created on the levels of NO2 across four (4) locations within the Tema Metropolitan area, with specific interest in selecting locations and periods significantly saturated with NO2 within the study area. NO2 was measured using RKI Eagle, an instrument with a built-in sensor for a specific gas measurement. Measurements were taken day and night at sampling points around 100 meters apart in each location. Data collection was performed over a nine (9)-month period. The Generalized Linear model is explored for selecting locations and periods significantly affected by NO2. From the results, the fourth week (26th–31st) of July 2020, the fourth week (27th–31st) of December 2020, the first week (1st–7th) of January 2021, and the fourth week (24th–31st) of January 2021 recorded severe concentrations of NO2. Additionally, the lives of residents in the Oil Jetty and the VALVO hospital areas were found to be the most endangered, as they recorded significantly high concentrations of NO2. In a developing country such as Ghana, this study is useful for monitoring NO2 concentrations in similar areas to inform decision making and environmental policy formulation.
Evaluation of Polycaprolactone Electrospun Nanofiber-Composites for Artificial Skin Based on Dermal Fibroblast Culture
Authors: Khandaker Morshed , Nomhwange Hembafan , Progri Helga , Nikfarjam Sadegh , Vaughan Melville B.
Published: January 2022

The study’s aim was to develop a dermal equivalent scaffold that can mimic the architecture and biological performance of the human dermis. Poly ε-caprolactone (PCL) electrospun nanofiber material (ENF) was assembled with polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA), sodium alginate (SA) and type I collagen (CG1) to develop three groups of dermal equivalent scaffolds. These scaffolds were named PEGDA-PCL, SA-PCL and CG1-PCL. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of cell-free scaffolds’ top and cross-sectional surface were collected and analyzed to examine internal morphology, specifically the adhesiveness of PCL fibers with the different scaffolds. Human dermal fibroblasts were cultured on each of the scaffolds. Cell viability studies including cell adhesion, cell differentiation and stress fiber production were conducted on each scaffold. Furthermore, the architectural integrity of each scaffold was verified by degradation analysis for 2 weeks by soaking each scaffold in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) solution. Finally, we conducted rheological characteristics of each scaffold. Based on our results from the above analysis, the study concluded that CG1-PCL is best suitable for the dermal equivalent model and has potential to be used as a graft for skin repair.
The Effectiveness of the Sexual Reproduction in Selected Clonal and Nonclonal Species of the Genus Ranunculus
Authors: Kocot Dawid , Sitek Ewa , Nowak Barbara , Kołton Anna , Stachurska-Swakoń Alina , Towpasz Krystyna
Published: January 2022

Generative processes have been evaluated in six European buttercup species in order to verify the hypothesis that the reproduction efficiency of clonal species is lower than that of nonclonal ones. The study covered common species (Ficaria verna, Ranunculus auricomus, R. bulbosus, R. cassubicus, R. lanuginosus) and the endangered R. illyricus. The following properties have been assessed: pollen viability (staining method), pollen grain germination and the pollen-tube elongation in pistil tissues (fluorescence microscopy), seed formation efficiency, seed viability (tetrazolium test) and germination ability by introducing factors interrupting dormancy (low temperature and gibberellin application). Additionally, the pistil morphology was documented for R. bulbosus, R. illyricus and R. cassubicus using SEM techniques. It was demonstrated that the reproductive efficiency, expressed as the production of viable seeds able to germinate, was significantly higher in the species reproducing sexually (especially in R. lanuginosus) compared to the clonal ones. However, the complexity observed leads to separation of an additional group (cluster) of apomictic species: R. auricomus and R. cassubicus, distinguished by the lowest pollen viability and a low ability of the seeds to germinate. In the vegetatively reproducing R. illyricus, the seed formation efficiency was just 13.2% despite the having highest number of pistils in its flowers. The developed seeds of this species observed in our experiment were viable, but in general effective methods to stimulate their germination have not been proposed yet. Here, the first comparative study concerning the biology of sexual reproduction of R. illyricus is presented in the context of its decreasing distribution in natural habitats.
Identifying Blunt Force Traumatic Injury on Thermally Altered Remains: A Pilot Study Using Sus scrofa
Authors: Keys Kamryn , Ross Ann H.
Published: January 2022

In forensic scenarios involving homicide, human remains are often exposed to fire as a means of disposal and/or obscuring identity. Burning human remains can result in the concealment of traumatic injury, the creation of artifacts resembling injury, or the destruction of preexisting trauma. Since fire exposure can greatly influence trauma preservation, methods to differentiate trauma signatures from burning artifacts are necessary to conduct forensic analyses. Specifically, in the field of forensic anthropology, criteria to distinguish trauma from fire signatures on bone is inconsistent and sparse. This study aims to supplement current forensic anthropological literature by identifying criteria found to be the most diagnostic of fire damage or blunt force trauma. Using the skulls of 11 adult pigs (Sus scrofa), blunt force trauma was manually produced using a crowbar and flat-faced hammer. Three specimens received no impacts and were utilized as controls. All skulls were relocated to an outdoor, open-air fire where they were burned until a calcined state was achieved across all samples. Results from this experiment found that blunt force trauma signatures remained after burning and were identifiable in all samples where reassociation of fragments was possible. This study concludes that distinct patterns attributed to thermal fractures and blunt force fractures are identifiable, allowing for diagnostic criteria to be narrowed down for future analyses.
DNA Methylation: A Promising Approach in Management of Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Neurodegenerative Disorders
Authors: Kaur Gagandeep , Rathod Suraj Singh S. , Ghoneim Mohammed M. , Alshehri Sultan , Ahmad Javed , Mishra Awanish , Alhakamy Nabil A.
Published: January 2022

DNA methylation, in the mammalian genome, is an epigenetic modification that involves the transfer of a methyl group on the C5 position of cytosine to derive 5-methylcytosine. The role of DNA methylation in the development of the nervous system and the progression of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease has been an interesting research area. Furthermore, mutations altering DNA methylation affect neurodevelopmental functions and may cause the progression of several neurodegenerative diseases. Epigenetic modifications in neurodegenerative diseases are widely studied in different populations to uncover the plausible mechanisms contributing to the development and progression of the disease and detect novel biomarkers for early prognosis and future pharmacotherapeutic targets. In this manuscript, we summarize the association of DNA methylation with the pathogenesis of the most common neurodegenerative diseases, such as, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington diseases, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and discuss the potential of DNA methylation as a potential biomarker and therapeutic tool for neurogenerative diseases.
Open-Bundle Structure as the Unfolding Intermediate of Cytochrome c′ Revealed by Small Angle Neutron Scattering
Authors: Yamaguchi Takahide , Akao Kouhei , Koutsioubas Alexandros , Frielinghaus Henrich , Kohzuma Takamitsu
Published: January 2022

The dynamic structure changes, including the unfolding, dimerization, and transition from the compact to the open-bundle unfolding intermediate structure of Cyt c′, were detected by a small-angle neutron scattering experiment (SANS). The structure of Cyt c′ was changed into an unstructured random coil at pD = 1.7 (Rg = 25 Å for the Cyt c′ monomer). The four-α-helix bundle structure of Cyt c′ at neutral pH was transitioned to an open-bundle structure (at pD ~13), which is given by a numerical partial scattering function analysis as a joint-clubs model consisting of four clubs (α-helices) connected by short loops. The compactly folded structure of Cyt c′ (radius of gyration, Rg = 18 Å for the Cyt c′ dimer) at neutral or mildly alkaline pD transited to a remarkably larger open-bundle structure at pD ~13 (Rg = 25 Å for the Cyt c′ monomer). The open-bundle structure was also supported by ab initio modeling.
Toward the Decipherment of Molecular Interactions in the Diabetic Brain
Authors: Chomova Maria
Published: January 2022

Diabetes mellitus (DM) has been associated with cognitive complications in the brain resulting from acute and chronic metabolic disturbances happening peripherally and centrally. Numerous studies have reported on the morphological, electrophysiological, biochemical, and cognitive changes in the brains of diabetic individuals. The detailed pathophysiological mechanisms implicated in the development of the diabetic cognitive phenotype remain unclear due to intricate molecular changes evolving over time and space. This review provides an insight into recent advances in understanding molecular events in the diabetic brain, focusing on cerebral glucose and insulin uptake, insulin action in the brain, and the role of the brain in the regulation of glucose homeostasis. Fully competent mitochondria are essential for energy metabolism and proper brain function; hence, the potential contribution of mitochondria to the DM-induced impairment of the brain is also discussed.
Saccharin Stimulates Insulin Secretion Dependent on Sweet Taste Receptor-Induced Activation of PLC Signaling Axis
Authors: Serrano Joan , Meshram Nishita N. , Soundarapandian Mangala M. , Smith Kathleen R. , Mason Carter , Brown Ian S. , Tyrberg Björn , Kyriazis George A.
Published: January 2022

Background: Saccharin is a common artificial sweetener and a bona fide ligand for sweet taste receptors (STR). STR can regulate insulin secretion in beta cells, so we investigated whether saccharin can stimulate insulin secretion dependent on STR and the activation of phospholipase C (PLC) signaling. Methods: We performed in vivo and in vitro approaches in mice and cells with loss-of-function of STR signaling and specifically assessed the involvement of a PLC signaling cascade using real-time biosensors and calcium imaging. Results: We found that the ingestion of a physiological amount of saccharin can potentiate insulin secretion dependent on STR. Similar to natural sweeteners, saccharin triggers the activation of the PLC signaling cascade, leading to calcium influx and the vesicular exocytosis of insulin. The effects of saccharin also partially require transient receptor potential cation channel M5 (TRPM5) activity. Conclusions: Saccharin ingestion may transiently potentiate insulin secretion through the activation of the canonical STR signaling pathway. These physiological effects provide a framework for understanding the potential health impact of saccharin use and the contribution of STR in peripheral tissues.
Influence of Nicotine from Diverse Delivery Tools on the Autonomic Nervous and Hormonal Systems
Authors: Menshov Valerii A. , Trofimov Aleksei V. , Zagurskaya Alla V. , Berdnikova Nadezda G. , Yablonskaya Olga I. , Platonova Anna G.
Published: January 2022

Background: Through measurements of the heart rate variability (HRV) accompanied by the pertinent biomarker assays, the effects of nicotine and byproducts derived from alternative nicotine delivery systems (ANDS) on the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and hormonal system have been investigated. Methods: HRV was studied in a group of volunteers (17 people), involving non-smokers, i.e., who never smoked before (11), ex-smokers (4) and active smokers (2). ANDS and smoking simulators, including regular, nicotine-free and electronic cigarettes; tobacco heating systems; chewing gums and nicotine packs of oral fixation (nic-packs), were used. Blood pressure, levels of stress hormones in saliva and catecholamines in the blood were also monitored. Results: HRV analysis showed relatively small changes in HRV and in the other studied parameters with the systemic use of nic-packs with low and moderate nicotine contents (up to 6 mg) compared to other ANDS. Conclusions: The HRV method is proven to be a promising technique for evaluation of the risks associated with smoking, dual use of various ANDS and studying the biomedical aspects of smoking cessation. Nic-packs are shown to be leaders in biological safety among the studied ANDS. A sharp surge in the activity of the sympathetic division of the ANS within the first minutes of the use of nicotine packs implies that nicotine begins to act already at very low doses (before entering the blood physically in any significant amount) through fast signal transmission to the brain from the nicotinic and taste buds located in the mouth area.
Automated Cerebral Infarct Detection on Computed Tomography Images Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Peng Syu-Jyun , Chen Yu-Wei , Yang Jing-Yu , Wang Kuo-Wei , Tsai Jang-Zern
Published: January 2022

The limited accuracy of cerebral infarct detection on CT images caused by the low contrast of CT hinders the desirable application of CT as a first-line diagnostic modality for screening of cerebral infarct. This research was aimed at utilizing convolutional neural network to enhance the accuracy of automated cerebral infarct detection on CT images. The CT images underwent a series of preprocessing steps mainly to enhance the contrast inside the parenchyma, adjust the orientation, spatially normalize the images to the CT template, and create a t-score map for each patient. The input format of the convolutional neural network was the t-score matrix of a 16 × 16-pixel patch. Non-infarcted and infarcted patches were selected from the t-score maps, on which data augmentation was conducted to generate more patches for training and testing the proposed convolutional neural network. The convolutional neural network attained a 93.9% patch-wise detection accuracy in the test set. The proposed method offers prompt and accurate cerebral infarct detection on CT images. It renders a frontline detection modality of ischemic stroke on an emergent or regular basis.
Trends in the Incidence and Treatment of Early-Onset Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: LaPelusa Michael , Shen Chan , Arhin Nina D. , Cardin Dana , Tan Marcus , Idrees Kamran , Geevarghese Sunil , Chakravarthy Bapsi , Berlin Jordan , Eng Cathy
Published: January 2022

Background: Early-onset pancreatic cancer (EOPC) is relatively uncommon. It is unclear if the incidence of EOPC is evolving and how these patients are treated. Methods: We conducted a retrospective, population-based study using SEER 2004–2016. We evaluated annual age-adjusted incidence rate (AAIR), stage at presentation, and race/ethnicity among 7802 patients plus treatment patterns in 7307 patients (excluding neuroendocrine tumors) younger than 50. Results: The AAIR was higher in males while the rate increased faster in females. The AAIR was highest in Non-Hispanic Black patients and increased for all races/ethnicities over time. The percentage of patients diagnosed with distant-stage disease decreased over time but increased for localized-stage disease. Hispanic patients made up a larger proportion of patients over time compared to other groups. For localized-stage disease, primary surgery alone was the most utilized modality of therapy. For regional-stage disease, chemotherapy with radiation was the most utilized modality from 2004–2010, whereas chemotherapy alone was the most utilized from 2011–2016. For distant-stage disease, chemotherapy alone was the most utilized and used increasingly over time. Patients with EOPC received radiation and chemotherapy at similar rates to, and underwent surgery more frequently, than patients 50–69. Conclusions: The AAIR of EOPC increased over time, faster so in females. Groups who experience a higher burden of pancreatic cancer, particularly African Americans, experienced a higher burden of EOPC. Treatment of localized and regional-stage disease did not follow standard treatment guidelines for pancreatic cancer. Our findings indicate that EOPC patients received more treatment than their older counterparts.
Copper (II) Heterocyclic Thiosemicarbazone Complexes as Single-Source Precursors for the Preparation of Cu9S5 Nanoparticles: Application in Photocatalytic Degradation of Methylene Blue
Authors: Yepseu Adrien P. , Girardet Thomas , Nyamen Linda D. , Fleutot Solenne , Ketchemen Kevin I. Y. , Cleymand Franck , Ndifon Peter T.
Published: January 2022

In this study, two copper(II) complexes, [Cu(C6H8N3S2)2]Cl2 (1) and [Cu(C7H10N3S2)2]Cl2·H2O (2), were synthesized from 2-(thiophen-2-ylmethylene)hydrazine-1-carbothioamide (L1H) and 2-(1-(thiophen-2-yl)ethylidene)hydrazine-1-carbothioamide (L2H) respectively and characterized using various spectroscopic techniques and elemental analyses. The as-prepared complexes were used as single-source precursors for the synthesis of oleylamine-capped (OLA@CuxSy), hexadecylamine-capped (HDA@CuxSy), and dodecylamine-capped (DDA@CuxSy) copper sulphide nanoparticles (NPs) via the thermolysis method at 190 °C and 230 °C and then characterized using powder X-ray diffraction (p-XRD), UV-visible spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The p-XRD diffraction patterns confirmed the formation of crystalline rhombohedral digenite Cu9S5 with the space group R-3m. The TEM images showed the formation of nanoparticles of various shapes including hexagonal, rectangular, cubic, truncated-triangular, and irregularly shaped Cu9S5 nanomaterials. The SEM results showed aggregates and clusters as well as the presence of pores on the surfaces of nanoparticles synthesized at 190 °C. The UV-visible spectroscopy revealed a general blue shift observed in the absorption band edge of the copper sulphide NPs, as compared to bulk CuxSy, with energy band gaps ranging from 2.52 to 3.00 eV. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) confirmed the elemental composition of the Cu9S5 nanoparticles. The nanoparticles obtained at 190 °C and 230 °C were used as catalysts for the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) under UV irradiation. Degradation rates varying from 47.1% to 80.0% were obtained after 90 min of exposure time using only 10 mg of the catalyst, indicating that Cu9S5 nanoparticles have potential in the degradation of organic pollutants (dyes).
Hypercrosslinked Ionic Polymers with High Ionic Content for Efficient Conversion of Carbon Dioxide into Cyclic Carbonates
Authors: Liao Xu , Pei Baoyou , Ma Ruixun , Kong Lingzheng , Gao Xilin , He Jiao , Luo Xiaoyan , Lin Jinqing
Published: January 2022

The effective conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) into cyclic carbonates requires porous materials with high ionic content and large specific surface area. Herein, we developed a new systematic post-synthetic modification strategy for synthesizing imidazolium-based hypercrosslinked ionic polymers (HIPs) with high ionic content (up to 2.1 mmol g−1) and large specific surface area (385 m2 g−1) from porous hypercrosslinked polymers (HCPs) through addition reaction and quaternization. The obtained HIPs were efficient in CO2 capture and conversion. Under the synergistic effect of high ionic content, large specific surface area, and plentiful micro/mesoporosity, the metal-free catalyst [HCP-CH2-Im][Cl]-1 exhibited quantitative selectivities, high catalytic yields, and good substrate compatibility for the conversion of CO2 into cyclic carbonates at atmospheric pressure (0.1 MPa) in a shorter reaction time in the absence of cocatalysts, solvents, and additives. High catalytic yields (styrene oxide, 120 °C, 8 h, 94% yield; 100 °C, 20 h, 93% yield) can be achieved by appropriately extending the reaction times at low temperature, and the reaction times are shorter than other porous materials under the same conditions. This work provides a new strategy for synthesizing an efficient metal-free heterogeneous catalyst with high ionic content and a large specific surface area from HCPs for the conversion of CO2 into cyclic carbonates. It also demonstrates that the ionic content and specific surface area must be coordinated to obtain high catalytic activity for CO2 cycloaddition reaction.
Electrochemical Devices to Monitor Ionic Analytes for Healthcare and Industrial Applications
Authors: Fan Sue-Yuan , Khuntia Sucharita , Ahn Christine Heera , Zhang Bing , Tai Li-Chia
Published: January 2022

Recent advances in electrochemical devices have sparked exciting opportunities in the healthcare, environment, and food industries. These devices can be fabricated at low costs and are capable of multiplex monitoring. This overcomes challenges presnted in traditional sensors for biomolecules and provides us a unique gateway toward comprehensive analyses. The advantages of electrochemical sensors are derived from their direct integration with electronics and their high selectivity along with sensitivity to sense a wide range of ionic analytes at an economical cost. This review paper aims to summarize recent innovations of a wide variety of electrochemical sensors for ionic analytes for health care and industrial applications. Many of these ionic analytes are important biomarkers to target for new diagnostic tools for medicine, food quality monitoring, and pollution detection. In this paper, we will examine various fabrication techniques, sensing mechanisms, and will also discuss various future opportunities in this research direction.
Ionophore-Based Potassium Selective Fluorescent Organosilica Nano-Optodes Containing Covalently Attached Solvatochromic Dyes
Authors: Zhang Yupu , Du Xinfeng , Xie Xiaojiang
Published: January 2022

Fluorescent nanoprobes containing ionophores and solvatochromic dyes (SDs) were previously reported as an alternative to chromoionophore-based nano-optodes. However, the small-molecular SDs are prone to leakage and sequestration in complex samples. Here, we chemically attached the SDs to the surface of organosilica nanospheres through copper-catalyzed Click chemistry to prevent dye leakage. The nano-optodes remained well responsive to K+ even after exposure to a large amount of cation-exchange resin, which acted as a sink of the SDs. The potassium nanoprobes exhibited a dynamic range between 1 μM to 10 mM and a good selectivity thanks to valinomycin. Preliminary sensing device based on a nylon filter paper and agarose hydrogel was demonstrated. The results indicate that the covalent anchoring of SDs on nanospheres is promising for developing ionophore-based nanoprobes.
Application of the Crow Search Algorithm to the Problem of the Parametric Estimation in Transformers Considering Voltage and Current Measures
Authors: Gracia-Velásquez David Gilberto , Morales-Rodríguez Andrés Steven , Montoya Oscar Danilo
Published: January 2022

The problem of the electrical characterization of single-phase transformers is addressed in this research through the application of the crow search algorithm (CSA). A nonlinear programming model to determine the series and parallel impedances of the transformer is formulated using the mean square error (MSE) between the voltages and currents measured and calculated as the objective function. The CSA is selected as a solution technique since it is efficient in dealing with complex nonlinear programming models using penalty factors to explore and exploit the solution space with minimum computational effort. Numerical results in three single-phase transformers with nominal sizes of 20 kVA, 45 kVA, 112.5 kVA, and 167 kVA demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed approach to define the transformer parameters when compared with the large-scale nonlinear solver fmincon in the MATLAB programming environment. Regarding the final objective function value, the CSA reaches objective functions lower than 2.75×10−11 for all the simulation cases, which confirms their effectiveness in minimizing the MSE between real (measured) and expected (calculated) voltage and current variables in the transformer.