bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Construct ceRNA Network and Risk Model of Breast Cancer Using Machine Learning Methods under the Mechanism of Cuproptosis
Authors: Deng Jianzhi , Fu Fei , Zhang Fengming , Xia Yuanyuan , Zhou Yuehan
Published: March 2023

Breast cancer (BRCA) has an undesirable prognosis and is the second most common cancer among women after lung cancer. A novel mechanism of programmed cell death called cuproptosis is linked to the development and spread of tumor cells. However, the function of cuproptosis in BRCA remains unknown. To this date, no studies have used machine learning methods to screen for characteristic genes to explore the role of cuproptosis-related genes (CRGs) in breast cancer. Therefore, 14 cuproptosis-related characteristic genes (CRCGs) were discovered by the feature selection of 39 differentially expressed CRGs using the three machine learning methods LASSO, SVM-RFE, and random forest. Through the PPI network and immune infiltration analysis, we found that PRNP was the key CRCG. The miRTarBase, TargetScan, and miRDB databases were then used to identify hsa-miR-192-5p and hsa-miR-215-5p as the upstream miRNA of PRNP, and the upstream lncRNA, CARMN, was identified by the StarBase database. Thus, the mRNA PRNP/miRNA hsa-miR-192-5p and hsa-miR-215-5p/lncRNA CARMN ceRNA network was constructed. This ceRNA network, which has not been studied before, is extremely innovative. Furthermore, four cuproptosis-related lncRNAs (CRLs) were screened in TCGA-BRCA by univariate Cox, LASSO, and multivariate Cox regression analysis. The risk model was constructed by using these four CRLs, and the risk score = C9orf163 * (1.8365) + PHC2-AS1 * (−2.2985) + AC087741.1 * (−0.9504) + AL109824.1 * (0.6016). The ROC curve and C-index demonstrated the superior predictive capacity of the risk model, and the ROC curve demonstrated that the AUC of 1-, 3-, and 5-year OS in all samples was 0.721, 0.695, and 0.633, respectively. Finally, 50 prospective sensitive medicines were screened with the pRRophetic R package, among which 17-AAG may be a therapeutic agent for high-risk patients, while the other 49 medicines may be suitable for the treatment of low-risk patients. In conclusion, our study constructs a new ceRNA network and a novel risk model, which offer a theoretical foundation for the treatment of BRCA and will aid in improving the prognosis of BRCA.
The Association of Combined Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances and Metals with Allostatic Load Using Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression
Authors: Bashir Tahir , Obeng-Gyasi Emmanuel
Published: March 2023

Background/Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effect of exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a class of organic compounds utilized in commercial and industrial applications, on allostatic load (AL), a measure of chronic stress. PFAS, such as perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDE), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluoroundecanoic acid (PFUA), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), and perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHS), and metals, such as mercury (Hg), barium (Ba), cadmium (Cd), cobalt (Co), cesium (Cs), molybdenum (Mo), lead (Pb), antimony (Sb), thallium (TI), tungsten (W), and uranium (U) were investigated. This research was performed to explore the effects of combined exposure to PFAS and metals on AL, which may be a disease mediator. Methods: Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2007 to 2014 were used to conduct this study on persons aged 20 years and older. A cumulative index of 10 biomarkers from the cardiovascular, inflammatory, and metabolic systems was used to calculate AL out of 10. If the overall index was ≥ 3, an individual was considered to be chronically stressed (in a state of AL). In order to assess the dose-response connections between mixtures and outcomes and to limit the effects of multicollinearity and other potential interaction effects between exposures, Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) was used. Results: The most significant positive trend between mixed PFAS and metal exposure and AL was revealed by combined exposure to cesium, molybdenum, PFHS, PFNA, and mercury (posterior inclusion probabilities, PIP = 1, 1, 0.854, 0.824, and 0.807, respectively). Conclusions: Combined exposure to metals and PFAS increases the likelihood of being in a state of AL.
Dynamic Asset Allocation with Expected Shortfall via Quantum Annealing
Authors: Xu Hanjing , Dasgupta Samudra , Pothen Alex , Banerjee Arnab
Published: March 2023

Recent advances in quantum hardware offer new approaches to solve various optimization problems that can be computationally expensive when classical algorithms are employed. We propose a hybrid quantum-classical algorithm to solve a dynamic asset allocation problem where a target return and a target risk metric (expected shortfall) are specified. We propose an iterative algorithm that treats the target return as a constraint in a Markowitz portfolio optimization model, and dynamically adjusts the target return to satisfy the targeted expected shortfall. The Markowitz optimization is formulated as a Quadratic Unconstrained Binary Optimization (QUBO) problem. The use of the expected shortfall risk metric enables the modeling of extreme market events. We compare the results from D-Wave’s 2000Q and Advantage quantum annealers using real-world financial data. Both quantum annealers are able to generate portfolios with more than 80% of the return of the classical optimal solutions, while satisfying the expected shortfall. We observe that experiments on assets with higher correlations tend to perform better, which may help to design practical quantum applications in the near term.
Blind Deconvolution Based on Correlation Spectral Negentropy for Bearing Fault
Authors: Tian Tian , Tang Gui-Ji , Tian Yin-Chu , Wang Xiao-Long
Published: March 2023

Blind deconvolution is a method that can effectively improve the fault characteristics of rolling bearings. However, the existing blind deconvolution methods have shortcomings in practical applications. The minimum entropy deconvolution (MED) and the optimal minimum entropy deconvolution adjusted (OMEDA) are susceptible to extreme values. Furthermore, maximum correlated kurtosis deconvolution (MCKD) and multipoint optimal minimum entropy deconvolution adjusted (MOMEDA) are required prior knowledge of faults. On the basis of the periodicity and impact of bearing fault signals, a new deconvolution algorithm, namely one based on maximum correlation spectral negentropy (CSNE), which adopts the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm to solve the filter coefficients, is proposed in this paper. Verified by the simulated vibration model signal and the experimental simulation signal, the PSO–CSNE algorithm proposed in this paper overcomes the influence of harmonic signals and random pulse signals more effectively than other blind deconvolution algorithms when prior knowledge of the fault is unknown.
A New Distributed Robust Power Control for Two-Layer Cooperative Communication Networks in Smart Grids with Reduced Utility Costs
Authors: Xiong Chang , Su Yixin , Zhang Danhong , Chen Lan , Zhang Huajie , Li Qi
Published: March 2023

The packet loss during transmission of load control commands can lead to regulation errors in the smart grid and increase the cost of utility agencies due to the purchase of additional automatic generation control (AGC) services. In this paper, a two-layer cooperative communication network between the utility company and relays is presented. The utility company rents the relay to assist with the downlink transmission to improve the reliability of communication and reduce the data transmission cost due to packet loss. Furthermore, the uncertainty of channel gain is considered, and a two-tier game model is established. A distributed robust power control algorithm based on the continuous convex approximation method is proposed to obtain the optimal relay power allocation and price. Through the simulation analysis of the proposed scheme and the two comparison schemes, the cost of the utility company was reduced by 6% and 21%, and the standard deviation of income value between the relays was reduced by 40% and 48%, respectively.
Energy Management System (EMS) Based on Model Predictive Control (MPC) for an Isolated DC Microgrid
Authors: Basantes Jonathan , Paredes Daniela , Llanos Jacqueline , Ortiz Diego , Burgos Claudio
Published: March 2023

Microgrids have become an alternative for integrating distributed generation to supply energy to isolated communities, so their control and optimal management are important. This research designs and simulates the three levels of control of a DC microgrid operating in isolated mode and proposes an Energy Management System (EMS) based on Model Predictive Control (MPC), with real-time measurement feedback for optimal energy dispatch, which ensures power flow distribution and operation at minimum cost while extending the lifespan of the BESS. The EMS can react to disturbances produced in the lower control levels. The microgrid’s performance is analyzed and compared in two scenarios without EMS, and with EMS against changes in irradiation and changes in electricity demand. The fulfillment of the power balance is evaluated by analyzing the power delivered by each generation unit, the operating cost, and the state of charge of the battery (SOC).
Frequency Stabilization in an Interconnected Micro-Grid Using Smell Agent Optimization Algorithm-Tuned Classical Controllers Considering Electric Vehicles and Wind Turbines
Authors: Vishnoi Shreya , Nikolovski Srete , Raju More , Kirar Mukesh Kumar , Rana Ankur Singh , Kumar Pawan
Published: March 2023

In micro-grids (MGs), renewable energy resources (RESs) supply a major portion of the consumer demand. The intermittent nature of these RESs and the stochastic characteristics of the loads cause a frequency stabilization issue in MGs. Owing to this, in the present manuscript, the authors try to uncover the frequency stabilization/regulation issue (FRI) in a two-area MG system comprising wind turbines (WTs), an aqua-electrolyzer, a fuel cell, a bio-gas plant, a bio-diesel plant, diesel generation (DG), ship DG, electric vehicles and their energy storage devices, flywheels, and batteries in each control area. With these sources, the assessment of the FRI is carried out using different classical controllers, namely, the integral (I), proportional plus I (PI), and PI plus derivative (PID) controllers. The gain values of these I, PI, and PID controllers are tuned using the recently proposed smell agent optimization (SAO) algorithm. The simulation studies reveal the outstanding performance of the later controller compared with the former ones in view of the minimum settling period and peak amplitude deviations (overshoots and undershoots). The SAO algorithm shows superior convergence behavior when tested against particle swarm optimization and the firefly algorithm. The SAO-PID controller effectively performs in continuously changing and increased demand situations. The SAO-PID controller designed in nominal conditions was found to be insensitive to wide deviations in load demands and WT time constants.
Estimation of Biomass and Carbon Sequestration Potential of Dalbergia latifolia Roxb. and Melia composita Willd. Plantations in the Tarai Region (India)
Authors: Chopra Neha , Tewari Lalit Mohan , Tewari Ashish , Wani Zishan Ahmad , Asgher Mohd , Pant Shreekar , Siddiqui Sazada , Siddiqua Ayesha
Published: March 2023

This study was carried out in the Tarai region of Uttarakhand, India to estimate the carbon stock and sequestration potential of Dalbergia latifolia and Melia composita plantations of different ages (4 and 6 years old). A total of 14 regression equations using one variable, dbh (diameter at breast height), were primarily selected for both of the tree species component-wise. Tree density was 880 and 960 individuals ha−1 in D. latifolia and M. composita monoplantations, respectively. These equations were statistically significant (p < 0.01, p < 0.05) at 95% confidence interval. The total biomass of trees, shrubs, and herbs at the different-aged plantations varied from 68.86 to 145.14 Mg ha−1, 1.29 to 2.41 Mg ha−1, and 1.14 to 3.68 Mg ha−1, respectively. Among the studied plantations, the maximum total biomass of 145.14 Mg ha−1 was recorded at the M. composita plantation (7 years old), resulting in the maximum carbon stock of 68.94 Mg C ha−1. Total NPP ranged from 5.6 Mg ha−1yr−1 to 16.01 Mg ha−1yr−1 for both plantations of different ages. The carbon sequestration in the M. composita 7-year-old plantation was 7.6 Mg Cha−1yr−1. Quantified carbon sequestration among different tree components must be considered for tree-level inventories for carbon trading schemes when determining the long-term carbon pools under the Paris agreement.
Recent Trends and Future Challenges for Lichen Biomonitoring in Forests
Authors: Frati Luisa , Brunialti Giorgio
Published: March 2023

Currently, forest ecosystems are often located in remote areas, far from direct sources of air pollution. Nonetheless, they may be affected by different types of atmospheric deposition, which can compromise their health and inner balance. Epiphytic lichens respond to air pollution and climate change, and they have been widely adopted as ecological indicators, mainly in urban and industrial areas, while forest ecosystems are still underrepresented. However, in recent years, their use has become increasingly widespread, especially in the context of long-term monitoring programs for air pollution in forests. In this review, we provide a critical analysis of the topic from the point of view of the different methodological approaches based on lichen responses adopted in forest ecosystems. Further, we discuss the main challenges posed by the current global change scenario.
Isolation and Staining Reveal the Presence of Extracellular DNA in Marine Gel Particles
Authors: Al-Wahaibi Aisha S. M. , Upstill-Goddard Robert C. , Burgess J. Grant
Published: March 2023

Marine gel particles (MGP) are amorphous hydrogel exudates from bacteria and microalgae that are ubiquitous in the oceans, but their biochemical composition and function are poorly understood. While dynamic ecological interactions between marine microorganisms and MGPs may result in the secretion and mixing of bacterial extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) such as nucleic acids, compositional studies currently are limited to the identification of acidic polysaccharides and proteins in transparent exopolymer particles (TEP) and Coomassie stainable particles (CSP). Previous studies targeted MGPs isolated by filtration. We developed a new way of isolating MGPs from seawater in liquid suspension and applied it to identify extracellular DNA (eDNA) in North Sea surface seawater. Seawater was filtered onto polycarbonate (PC) filters with gentle vacuum filtration, and then the filtered particles were gently resuspended in a smaller volume of sterile seawater. The resulting MGPs ranged in size from 0.4 to 100 µm in diameter. eDNA was detected by fluorescent microscopy using YOYO-1 (for eDNA), with Nile red (targeting cell membranes) as a counterstain. TOTO-3 was also used to stain eDNA, with ConA to localise glycoproteins and SYTO-9 for the live/dead staining of cells. Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) revealed the presence of proteins and polysaccharides. We found eDNA to be universally associated with MGPs. To further elucidate the role of eDNA, we established a model experimental MGP system using bacterial EPS from Pseudoalteromonas atlantica that also contained eDNA. Our results clearly demonstrate the occurrence of eDNA in MGPs, and should aid furthering our understanding of the micro-scale dynamics and fate of MGPs that underly the large-scale processes of carbon cycling and sedimentation in the ocean.
Amidoamine Oxide Surfactants as Low-Molecular-Weight Hydrogelators: Effect of Methylene Chain Length on Aggregate Structure and Rheological Behavior
Authors: Kakehashi Rie , Tokai Naoji , Nakagawa Makoto , Kawasaki Kazunori , Horiuchi Shin , Yamamoto Atsushi
Published: March 2023

Rheology control is an important issue in many industrial products such as cosmetics and paints. Recently, low-molecular-weight compounds have attracted considerable attention as thickeners/gelators for various solvents; however, there is still a significant need for molecular design guidelines for industrial applications. Amidoamine oxides (AAOs), which are long-chain alkylamine oxides with three amide groups, are surfactants that act as hydrogelators. Here, we show the relationship between the length of methylene chains at four different locations of AAOs, the aggregate structure, the gelation temperature Tgel, and the viscoelasticity of the formed hydrogels. As seen from the results of electron microscopic observations, the aggregate structure (ribbon-like or rod-like) can be controlled by changing the length of methylene chain in the hydrophobic part, the length of methylene chain between the amide and amine oxide groups, and the lengths of methylene chains between amide groups. Furthermore, hydrogels consisting of rod-like aggregates showed significantly higher viscoelasticity than those consisting of ribbon-like aggregates. In other words, it was shown that the gel viscoelasticity could be controlled by changing the methylene chain lengths at four different locations of the AAO.
Steel Baffles as a Rockfall Protection Measure for Mountainous Urban Settings
Authors: Perera Jude Shalitha , Lam Nelson
Published: March 2023

A form of steel baffles, which is made of steel poles encased in concrete and embedded into the ground, are introduced in this article. This type of protective installation is to be located on previously identified/designed catchment at multiple levels up the hillslope to fence off large fallen boulders during landslides or rockfalls. These baffles are intended to serve as added-on protection to filter barriers (array of baffles) that have recently gained popularity as a means of filtering out coarse debris. The aforementioned protective devices are to be installed in strategic positions close to unstable rocks (noting that the velocity of impact can be much reduced at the upstream end of the rockfall trajectory). The proposed design involves only a simple hollow steel section, which is embedded into the ground. The installation process involves manually excavating a hole in the ground to accommodate the baffle, followed by backfilling with concrete. A straightforward calculation method, which is found on the established principles of structural dynamics and soil mechanics, has been developed to determine the section sizes and embedment depths for a given impact scenario. Based on the presented design procedure, a set of design charts have been developed for expediting the design and analysis process. The presented calculation methodology based on use of design charts have been validated by comparison with data generated by LS-DYNA simulations.
A Psychometric Study of the Perinatal Assessment of Maternal Affectivity (PAMA) for the Screening of Perinatal Affective Disorders in Mothers
Authors: Baldoni Franco , Agostini Francesca , Terrone Grazia , Casu Giulia , Giannotti Michele
Published: March 2023

Recently, empirical evidence from perinatal studies has led researchers to pay more attention to fathers. The need to evaluate male suffering led at first to using the same screening tools developed for mothers. However, these instruments present validity concerns with fathers, and today the need to assume a gender-based perspective is clear. The Perinatal Assessment of Paternal Affectivity (PAPA) is a self-reported questionnaire for the screening of a variety of psychological and behavioral dimensions related to affectivity as experienced by fathers during the perinatal period. In the present study, the psychometric properties of the maternal version of the scale (Perinatal Assessment of Maternal Affectivity; PAMA) were examined. The study, based on 225 mothers and their partners (n = 215), used a cross-sectional design with a single assessment at the third trimester of pregnancy. Results indicated a one-factor structure for a seven-item version of the PAMA, which showed adequate internal consistency reliability and was associated in the expected direction with other clinically relevant variables (depression, psychological distress, perceived stress and dyadic adjustment). The findings suggest the usefulness of developing gender sensitive screening tools for the detection of perinatal affective disorders.
Explainable Machine Learning to Predict Successful Weaning of Mechanical Ventilation in Critically Ill Patients Requiring Hemodialysis
Authors: Lin Ming-Yen , Chang Yuan-Ming , Li Chi-Chun , Chao Wen-Cheng
Published: March 2023

Lungs and kidneys are two vital and frequently injured organs among critically ill patients. In this study, we attempt to develop a weaning prediction model for patients with both respiratory and renal failure using an explainable machine learning (XML) approach. We used the eICU collaborative research database, which contained data from 335 ICUs across the United States. Four ML models, including XGBoost, GBM, AdaBoost, and RF, were used, with weaning prediction and feature windows, both at 48 h. The model’s explanations were presented at the domain, feature, and individual levels by leveraging various techniques, including cumulative feature importance, the partial dependence plot (PDP), the Shapley additive explanations (SHAP) plot, and local explanation with the local interpretable model-agnostic explanations (LIME). We enrolled 1789 critically ill ventilated patients requiring hemodialysis, and 42.8% (765/1789) of them were weaned successfully from mechanical ventilation. The accuracies in XGBoost and GBM were better than those in the other models. The discriminative characteristics of six key features used to predict weaning were demonstrated through the application of the SHAP and PDP plots. By utilizing LIME, we were able to provide an explanation of the predicted probabilities and the associated reasoning for successful weaning on an individual level. In conclusion, we used an XML approach to establish a weaning prediction model in critically ill ventilated patients requiring hemodialysis.
Association between Compliance with COVID-19 Restrictions and the Risk of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Poland
Authors: Hoffmann Karolina , Michalak Michał , Bońka Aleksandra , Bryl Wiesław , Myśliński Wojciech , Kostrzewska Magdalena , Kopciuch Dorota , Zaprutko Tomasz , Ratajczak Piotr , Nowakowska Elżbieta , Kus Krzysztof , Paczkowska Anna
Published: March 2023

During the coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic it has become very important to comply with preventive measures. We aimed to assess compliance with applicable restrictions and to explore the links between the level of compliance and the risk of COVID-19. This cross-sectional study included Polish adults who were asked to complete a validated questionnaire. The study period was from 1 November 2020 to 31 January 2021 and a computer-assisted web interview method was chosen to perform the survey. The study involved 562 women and 539 men. COVID-19 was reported in 11.26% of participants. A good level of compliance with the sanitary restrictions was reported for 38.87% of participants, an average level of compliance for 47.96%, and a low level of compliance for 13.17%. A reduced risk of COVID-19 was associated with the following preventive measures: regular use of protective masks, social and physical distancing in public places, regular use of hand sanitizers with high ethanol content, and the use of disposable gloves in public places. Our survey revealed satisfactory public compliance with the pandemic restrictions. Sanitary and epidemiologic measures to prevent the pandemic were shown to be adequate and effective.
Psychotherapeutic and Psychosocial Interventions with Unaccompanied Minors: A Scoping Review
Authors: Moutsou Irene , Georgaca Eugenie , Varaklis Theofilos
Published: March 2023

Unaccompanied minors (UAMs) are considered a particularly vulnerable population, facing severe threats regarding their physical and mental health. As their number has increased in recent years worldwide, research on mental health interventions has become necessary. The implementation of psychotherapeutic interventions has been documented, but psychosocial interventions seem to not have been consistently studied. In this review, we summarize the psychotherapeutic and psychosocial interventions with UAMs that have been studied up to now. Following the PRISMA guidelines for scoping reviews, we searched four databases and included studies and practice papers; there were no restrictions on publication date, geographical region, language, or method. We identified 46 studies on psychotherapeutic interventions and 16 studies on psychosocial interventions that met the inclusion criteria. Psychotherapeutic interventions were mainly based on cognitive behavioural, psychodynamic, narrative, art and transcultural approaches and aimed at improving UAMs’ trauma, mental health and wellbeing, as well as professionals’ skills and therapeutic protocols. Several studies showed promising results, with the cognitive behavioural approaches being the most researched. However, more research is needed in order to draw conclusions in terms of effectiveness. Psychosocial interventions followed various approaches and aimed at UAMs’ empowerment, wellbeing, support and integration, as well as at improving caregivers’ skills. Nonetheless, they seem not only very heterogeneous but also understudied, and we believe that a focus on them would be very useful. Methodological limitations and their implications for future research are discussed.
Developmental Strategy and Validation of the Midwifery Interventions Classification (MIC): A Delphi Study Protocol and Results from the Developmental Phase
Authors: Maga Giulia , Arrigoni Cristina , Brigante Lia , Cappadona Rosaria , Caruso Rosario , Daniele Marina Alice Sylvia , Del Bo Elsa , Ogliari Chiara , Magon Arianna
Published: March 2023

This study protocol aims to describe the rationale and developmental strategy of the first study in the Italian context which aimed to define a Midwifery Interventions Classification, an evidence-based, standardized taxonomy and classification of midwifery interventions. Midwifery interventions require a specific definition, developed through a consensus-building process by stakeholders to develop the Italian taxonomy of the Midwifery Interventions Classification with the potential for international transferability, implementation, and scaling up. A multi-round Delphi study was designed between June and September 2022, and data collection is planned between February 2023 and February 2024. The developmental phase of the study is based on a literature review to select meaningful midwifery interventions from the international literature, aiming to identify an evidence-based list of midwifery interventions. This phase led to including 16 articles derived from a systematic search performed on PubMed, CINAHL, and Scopus; 164 midwifery interventions were selected from the data extraction performed on the 16 included articles. Healthcare professionals, researchers, and service users will be eligible panelists for the Delphi surveys. The protocol designed a dynamic number of consultation rounds based on the ratings and interim analysis. A nine-point Likert scoring system is designed to evaluate midwifery interventions. Attrition and attrition bias will be evaluated. The results from the study designed in this protocol will inform the development of the Italian taxonomy of the Midwifery Interventions Classification. A shared classification of midwifery interventions will support audit and quality improvement, education, and comparable data collections for research, sustaining public recognition of midwifery interventions to promote optimal maternal and newborn health.
The Effects of Vermicompost and Green Manure Use on Yield and Economic Factors in Broccoli
Authors: Tascı Fulya Gul , Kuzucu Canan Oztokat
Published: March 2023

The objective of this paper is to evaluate the yield, quality and unit production cost of broccoli grown under green manure, vermicompost and chemical fertilization. For this purpose, broccoli plants were cultivated as follows: (i) Chemical fertilization (CF), (ii) Vermicompost fertilization (V), (iii) Vermicompost fertilization (VeV) in the common vetch cultivated land as a pre-plant and (iv) Vetch (Ve) as a pre-plant. Curd yield (g plant−1), SPAD, vitamin C (mg 100 g−1), total phenolics (mg GAE 100 mL−1), total sugar (%) and soluble solid content (SSC%) were determined. In addition, input usage levels and costs, unit product cost and gross and net profit analyzes were investigated for all treatments. The highest total curd weight was obtained from VeV treatment (1567.77 g), while the lowest mean was reached in Ve plots with 819.70 g. The highest SPAD values were detected in CF (70.20) and VeV plots (69.76) similar to yield values. The highest vitamin C and total phenolics content were detected in V plots (92.31 mg 100 g−1) (1308.87 mg GAE 100 mL−1). The combined effect of Ve and V increased the yield and quality of the broccoli curds. As a result of economic analysis, approximately twice the net profit difference emerged in VeV treatment compared to other treatments. It was determined that a gross profit of 68% of gross production value and net profit of 64% were obtained.
Allium Species in the Balkan Region—Major Metabolites, Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Properties
Authors: Vuković Sandra , Popović-Djordjević Jelena B. , Kostić Aleksandar Ž. , Pantelić Nebojša Dj. , Srećković Nikola , Akram Muhammad , Laila Umme , Katanić Stanković Jelena S.
Published: March 2023

Ever since ancient times, Allium species have played a significant role in the human diet, in traditional medicine for the treatment of many ailments, and in officinal medicine as a supplemental ingredient. The major metabolites of alliums, as well as their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, with an emphasis on the species most represented in the Balkan region, are discussed in this review. Due to its richness in endemic species, the Balkan region is considered the genocenter of alliums. There are 56 recorded Allium species in the Balkans, and 17 of them are endemic. The most common and well-studied Allium species in the Balkans are A. cepa (onion), A. sativum (garlic), A. ampeloprasum (leek), A. schoenoprasum (chives), A. fistulosum (Welsh onion), and A. ursinum (wild garlic or bear’s garlic), which are known for their pungent taste and smell, especially noticeable in garlic and onion, and attributed to various organosulfur compounds. These plants are valued for their macronutrients and are used as desirable vegetables and spices. Additionally, phytochemicals such as organosulfur compounds, phenolics, fatty acids, and saponins are associated with the antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of these species, among many other bioactivities. All parts of the plant including the bulb, peel, clove, leaf, pseudostem, root, flower, and seed exhibit antioxidant properties in different in vitro assays. The characteristic phytocompounds that contribute to the antimicrobial activity of alliums include allicin, ajoene, allyl alcohol, and some diallyl sulfides. Nanoparticles synthesized using Allium species are also recognized for their notable antimicrobial properties.
Caregivers’ and Family Members’ Knowledge Attitudes and Practices (KAP) towards Epilepsy in Rural Limpopo and Mpumalanga, South Africa
Authors: Musekwa Ofhani Prudance , Makhado Lufuno , Maphula Angelina
Published: March 2023

Epilepsy, a common neurological disease, has a significant impact on people living with epilepsy (PLWE), their caregivers, and their family members. Research has consistently shown that the quality of life of PLWE is low. To expand on this knowledge, a non-experimental quantitative survey study was conducted to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of caregivers and family members towards epilepsy and epilepsy-related seizures. The study sample consisted of 519 participants from two South African provinces (Limpopo and Mpumalanga), mostly aged 26–35 years. The study revealed that most respondents in Limpopo had no formal education, whereas in Mpumalanga, most had a secondary education. Most respondents (32.4%) reported always using a spoon to prevent tongue biting during seizures. However, 62.4% of respondents reported feeling unprepared to handle an epileptic seizure. Additionally, the majority (54.7%) showed a moderate level of knowledge about epilepsy. Many respondents had a negative attitude towards epilepsy, and there was uncertainty about proper practices during a seizure. In summary, the research highlights unsatisfactory knowledge and practices towards epilepsy and emphasizes the need for increased education and awareness among caregivers and family members. Significant educational investment is needed from medical services to improve epilepsy care, knowledge, and attitudes.
Mercury Exposure in Women of Reproductive Age in Rondônia State, Amazon Region, Brazil
Authors: Bello Thayssa C. S. , Buralli Rafael J. , Cunha Mônica P. L. , Dórea José G. , Diaz-Quijano Fredi A. , Guimarães Jean R. D. , Marques Rejane C.
Published: March 2023

Environmental contamination by mercury (Hg) is a problem of global scale that affects human health. This study’s aim was to evaluate Hg exposure among women of reproductive age residing in the Madeira River basin, in the State of Rondônia, Brazilian Amazon. This longitudinal cohort study used linear regression models to assess the effects on Hg levels of breastfeeding duration at 6 months, and of breastfeeding duration and number of new children at 2-year and 5-year. Breastfeeding duration was significantly associated with maternal Hg levels in all regression models (6 months, 2 years and 5 years) and no significant association was observed between the number of children and the change in maternal Hg levels in the 2-year and 5-year models. This longitudinal cohort study evaluated Hg levels and contributing factors among pregnant women from different communities (riverine, rural, mining and urban) in Rondônia, Amazon Region, for 5 years. A well-coordinated and designed national biomonitoring program is urgently needed to better understand the current situation of Hg levels in Brazil and the Amazon.
Pricing Multidimensional American Options
Authors: Agliardi Elettra , Agliardi Rossella
Published: March 2023

A new explicit form is provided for the solution of optimal stopping problems involving a multidimensional geometric Brownian motion. A free-boundary value approach is adopted and the value function is obtained via fundamental solution methods. There are many applications for the valuation of perpetual options of American style, which are of interest for finance and managerial decisions.
Acuminosylation of Tyrosol by a Commercial Diglycosidase
Authors: Haluz Peter , Kis Peter , Cvečko Matej , Mastihubová Mária , Mastihuba Vladimír
Published: March 2023

A commercial glycosidase mixture obtained from Penicillium multicolor (Aromase H2) was found to comprise a specific diglycosidase activity, β-acuminosidase, alongside undetectable levels of β-apiosidase. The enzyme was tested in the transglycosylation of tyrosol using 4-nitrophenyl β-acuminoside as the diglycosyl donor. The reaction was not chemoselective, providing a mixture of Osmanthuside H and its counterpart regioisomer 4-(2-hydroxyethyl)phenyl β-acuminoside in 58% yield. Aromase H2 is therefore the first commercial β-acuminosidase which is also able to glycosylate phenolic acceptors.
Mechanochemical Synergism of Reactive Oxygen Species Influences on RBC Membrane
Authors: Kozlova Elena , Sergunova Viktoria , Sherstyukova Ekaterina , Grechko Andrey , Lyapunova Snezhanna , Inozemtsev Vladimir , Kozlov Aleksandr , Gudkova Olga , Chernysh Aleksandr
Published: March 2023

The influences of various factors on blood lead to the formation of extra reactive oxygen species (ROS), resulting in the disruption of morphology and functions of red blood cells (RBCs). This study considers the mechanisms of the mechanochemical synergism of OH• free radicals, which are most active in the initiation of lipid peroxidation (LPO) in RBC membranes, and H2O2 molecules, the largest typical diffusion path. Using kinetic models of differential equations describing CH2O2t  and COH•t, we discuss two levels of mechanochemical synergism that occur simultaneously: (1) synergism that ensures the delivery of highly active free radicals OH• to RBC membranes and (2) a positive feedback system between H2O2 and OH•, resulting in the partial restoration of spent molecules. As a result of these ROS synergisms, the efficiency of LPO in RBC membranes sharply increases. In blood, the appearance of OH• free radicals is due to the interaction of H2O2 molecules with free iron ions (Fe2+) which arise as a result of heme degradation. We experimentally established the quantitative dependences of COH• CH2O2 using the methods of spectrophotometry and nonlinear curve fitting. This study extends the analysis of the influence of ROS mechanisms in RBC suspensions.
The Regulation of ZIP8 by Dietary Manganese in Mice
Authors: Yu Suetmui , Zhao Ningning
Published: March 2023

ZIP8 is a newly identified manganese transporter. A lack of functional ZIP8 results in severe manganese deficiency in both humans and mice, indicating that ZIP8 plays a crucial role in maintaining body manganese homeostasis. Despite a well-acknowledged connection between ZIP8 and manganese metabolism, how ZIP8 is regulated under high-manganese conditions remains unclear. The primary goal of this study was to examine the regulation of ZIP8 by high-manganese intake. We used both neonatal and adult mouse models in which mice were supplied with dietary sources containing either a normal or a high level of manganese. We discovered that high-manganese intake caused a reduction in liver ZIP8 protein in young mice. Since a decrease in hepatic ZIP8 leads to reduced manganese reabsorption from the bile, our study identified a novel mechanism for the regulation of manganese homeostasis under high-manganese conditions: high dietary manganese intake results in a decrease in ZIP8 in the liver, which in turn decreases the reabsorption of manganese from the bile to prevent manganese overload in the liver. Interestingly, we found that a high-manganese diet did not cause a decrease in hepatic ZIP8 in adult animals. To determine the potential reason for this age-dependent variation, we compared the expressions of liver ZIP8 in 3-week-old and 12-week-old mice. We found that liver ZIP8 protein content in 12-week-old mice decreases when compared with that of 3-week-old mice under normal conditions. Overall, results from this study provide novel insights to facilitate the understanding of ZIP8’s function in regulating manganese metabolism.
Elevations of Extracellular Vesicles and Inflammatory Biomarkers in Closed Circuit SCUBA Divers
Authors: Arya Awadhesh K. , Balestra Costantino , Bhopale Veena M. , Tuominen Laura J. , Räisänen-Sokolowski Anne , Dugrenot Emmanuel , L’Her Erwan , Bhat Abid R. , Thom Stephen R.
Published: March 2023

Blood-borne extracellular vesicles and inflammatory mediators were evaluated in divers using a closed circuit rebreathing apparatus and custom-mixed gases to diminish some diving risks. “Deep” divers (n = 8) dove once to mean (±SD) 102.5 ± 1.2 m of sea water (msw) for 167.3 ± 11.5 min. “Shallow” divers (n = 6) dove 3 times on day 1, and then repetitively over 7 days to 16.4 ± 3.7 msw, for 49.9 ± 11.9 min. There were statistically significant elevations of microparticles (MPs) in deep divers (day 1) and shallow divers at day 7 that expressed proteins specific to microglia, neutrophils, platelets, and endothelial cells, as well as thrombospondin (TSP)-1 and filamentous (F-) actin. Intra-MP IL-1β increased by 7.5-fold (p < 0.001) after day 1 and 41-fold (p = 0.003) at day 7. Intra-MP nitric oxide synthase-2 (NOS2) increased 17-fold (p < 0.001) after day 1 and 19-fold (p = 0.002) at day 7. Plasma gelsolin (pGSN) levels decreased by 73% (p < 0.001) in deep divers (day 1) and 37% in shallow divers by day 7. Plasma samples containing exosomes and other lipophilic particles increased from 186% to 490% among the divers but contained no IL-1β or NOS2. We conclude that diving triggers inflammatory events, even when controlling for hyperoxia, and many are not proportional to the depth of diving.
A New Strategy for Mapping Epitopes of LACK and PEPCK Proteins of Leishmania amazonensis Specific for Major Histocompatibility Complex Class I
Authors: Ferreira-Sena Edlainne Pinheiro , Hardoim Daiana de Jesus , Cardoso Flavia de Oliveira , d’Escoffier Luiz Ney , Soares Isabela Ferreira , Carvalho João Pedro Rangel da Silva , Angnes Ricardo Almir , Fragoso Stenio Perdigão , Alves Carlos Roberto , De-Simone Salvatore Giovanni , Lima-Junior Josué da Costa , Bertho Alvaro Luiz , Zaverucha-do-Valle Tânia , da Silva Franklin , Calabrese Kátia da Silva
Published: March 2023

Leishmaniasis represents a complex of diseases with a broad clinical spectrum and epidemiological diversity, considered a major public health problem. Although there is treatment, there are still no vaccines for cutaneous leishmaniasis. Because Leishmania spp. is an intracellular protozoan with several escape mechanisms, a vaccine must provoke cellular and humoral immune responses. Previously, we identified the Leishmania homolog of receptors for activated C kinase (LACK) and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) proteins as strong immunogens and candidates for the development of a vaccine strategy. The present work focuses on the in silico prediction and characterization of antigenic epitopes that might interact with mice or human major histocompatibility complex class I. After immunogenicity prediction on the Immune Epitope Database (IEDB) and the Database of MHC Ligands and Peptide Motifs (SYFPEITHI), 26 peptides were selected for interaction assays with infected mouse lymphocytes by flow cytometry and ELISpot. This strategy identified nine antigenic peptides (pL1-H2, pPL3-H2, pL10-HLA, pP13-H2, pP14-H2, pP15-H2, pP16-H2, pP17-H2, pP18-H2, pP26-HLA), which are strong candidates for developing a peptide vaccine against leishmaniasis.
Molecular Signaling in Stroke
Authors: Akhter Naseem , Ahmad Saif
Published: March 2023

We have reached the end of the Special Issue on Molecular Signaling in Stroke in IJMS [...]
A Therapeutic Vaccine Targeting Rat BORIS (CTCFL) for the Treatment of Rat Breast Cancer Tumors
Authors: Loukinov Dmitri , Anderson Amanda Laust , Mkrtichyan Mikayel , Ghochikyan Anahit , Rivero-Hinojosa Samuel , Tucker Jo , Lobanenkov Victor , Agadjanyan Michael G. , Nelson Edward L.
Published: March 2023

Cancer testis antigens are ideal for tumor immunotherapy due to their testis-restricted expression. We previously showed that an immunotherapeutic vaccine targeting the germ cell-specific transcription factor BORIS (CTCFL) was highly effective in treating aggressive breast cancer in the 4T1 mouse model. Here, we further tested the therapeutic efficacy of BORIS in a rat 13762 breast cancer model. We generated a recombinant VEE-VRP (Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis-derived replicon particle) vector-expressing modified rat BORIS lacking a DNA-binding domain (VRP-mBORIS). Rats were inoculated with the 13762 cells, immunized with VRP-mBORIS 48 h later, and then, subsequently, boosted at 10-day intervals. The Kaplan–Meier method was used for survival analysis. Cured rats were re-challenged with the same 13762 cells. We demonstrated that BORIS was expressed in a small population of the 13762 cells, called cancer stem cells. Treatment of rats with VRP-BORIS suppressed tumor growth leading to its complete disappearance in up to 50% of the rats and significantly improved their survival. This improvement was associated with the induction of BORIS-specific cellular immune responses measured by T-helper cell proliferation and INFγ secretion. The re-challenging of cured rats with the same 13762 cells indicated that the immune response prevented tumor growth. Thus, a therapeutic vaccine against rat BORIS showed high efficacy in treating the rat 13762 carcinoma. These data suggest that targeting BORIS can lead to the elimination of mammary tumors and cure animals even though BORIS expression is detected only in cancer stem cells.
Cadmium Disrupted ER Ca2+ Homeostasis by Inhibiting SERCA2 Expression and Activity to Induce Apoptosis in Renal Proximal Tubular Cells
Authors: Li Kongdong , Guo Chuanzhi , Ruan Jiacheng , Ning Bo , Wong Chris Kong-Chu , Shi Haifeng , Gu Jie
Published: March 2023

Cadmium (Cd2+) exposure induces chronic kidney disease and renal cancers, which originate from injury and cancerization of renal tubular cells. Previous studies have shown that Cd2+ induced cytotoxicity by disrupting the intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis that is physically regulated by the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca2+ store. However, the molecular mechanism of ER Ca2+ homeostasis in Cd2+-induced nephrotoxicity remains unclear. In this study, our results firstly revealed that the activation of calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) by NPS R-467 could protect against Cd2+ exposure-induced cytotoxicity of mouse renal tubular cells (mRTEC) by restoring ER Ca2+ homeostasis through the ER Ca2+ reuptake channel sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA). Cd2+-induced ER stress and cell apoptosis were effectively abrogated by SERCA agonist CDN1163 and SERCA2 overexpression. In addition, in vivo, and in vitro results proved that Cd2+ reduced the expressions of SERCA2 and its activity regulator phosphorylation phospholamban (p-PLB) in renal tubular cells. Cd2+-induced SERCA2 degradation was suppressed by the treatment of proteasome inhibitor MG132, which suggested that Cd2+ reduced SERCA2 protein stability by promoting the proteasomal protein degradation pathway. These results suggested that SERCA2 played pivotal roles in Cd2+-induced ER Ca2+ imbalance and stress to contribute to apoptosis of renal tubular cells, and the proteasomal pathway was involved in regulating SERCA2 stability. Our results proposed a new therapeutic approach targeting SERCA2 and associated proteasome that might protect against Cd2+-induced cytotoxicity and renal injury.
Mouse Models of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and Its Subtypes: Recent Insights and Pitfalls
Authors: Grupe Katharina , Scherneck Stephan
Published: March 2023

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is currently the most common complication of pregnancy and is defined as a glucose intolerance disorder with recognition during pregnancy. GDM is considered a uniform group of patients in conventional guidelines. In recent years, evidence of the disease’s heterogeneity has led to a growing understanding of the value of dividing patients into different subpopulations. Furthermore, in view of the increasing incidence of hyperglycemia outside pregnancy, it is likely that many cases diagnosed as GDM are in fact patients with undiagnosed pre-pregnancy impaired glucose tolerance (IGT). Experimental models contribute significantly to the understanding of the pathogenesis of GDM and numerous animal models have been described in the literature. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the existing mouse models of GDM, in particular those that have been obtained by genetic manipulation. However, these commonly used models have certain limitations in the study of the pathogenesis of GDM and cannot fully describe the heterogeneous spectrum of this polygenic disease. The polygenic New Zealand obese (NZO) mouse is introduced as a recently emerged model of a subpopulation of GDM. Although this strain lacks conventional GDM, it exhibits prediabetes and an IGT both preconceptionally and during gestation. In addition, it should be emphasized that the choice of an appropriate control strain is of great importance in metabolic studies. The commonly used control strain C57BL/6N, which exhibits IGT during gestation, is discussed in this review as a potential model of GDM.