bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epigenetic Changes in Equine Embryos after Short-Term Storage at Different Temperatures
Authors: Gastal Gustavo D. A. , Scarlet Dragos , Melchert Maria , Ertl Reinhard , Aurich Christine
Published: May 2021

In embryos subjected to assisted reproductive techniques, epigenetic modifications may occur that can influence embryonic development and the establishment of pregnancy. In horses, the storage temperature during transport of fresh embryos before transfer is a major concern. The aim of this study was, therefore, to determine the effects of two storage temperatures (5 °C and 20 °C) on equine embryos, collected at day seven after ovulation and stored for 24 h, on: (i) morphological development; (ii) expression of candidate genes associated with embryo growth and development, maternal recognition of pregnancy, methylation and apoptosis, and (iii) gene-specific and global DNA methylation. Embryos (n = 80) were collected on day seven or day eight after ovulation and assigned to four groups: day seven control (E7F, fresh); day seven, stored for 24 h at 5 °C (E5C); day seven, stored for 24 h at 20 °C (E20C) and day eight control (E8F, fresh 24h time control). The embryos and the storage medium (EquiHold, holding medium, Minitube, Tiefenbach, Germany) from all treatment groups were analyzed for (i) medium temperature, pH, and lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde; MDA) and (ii) embryo morphology, mRNA expression and DNA methylation (immunohistochemistry and gene-specific DNA methylation). The size of embryos stored at 5 °C was larger (p < 0.01), whereas embryos stored at 20 °C were smaller (p < 0.05) after 24 h. There were no changes in pH and MDA accumulation irrespective of the group. The mRNA expression of specific genes related to growth and development (POU5F1, SOX2, NANOG), maternal recognition of pregnancy (CYP19A1, PTGES2), DNA methylation (DNMT1, DNMT3A, DNMT3B) and apoptosis (BAX) in the E5C and E20C were either up or downregulated (p < 0.05) when compared to controls (E7F and E8F). The immune expression of 5mC and 5hmC was similar among treatment groups. Percentage of methylation in the CpG islands was lower in the specific genes ESR1, NANOG and DNMT1 (p < 0.001) in E20C embryos when compared to E8F (advanced embryo stage). Therefore, our study demonstrates for the first time the gene-specific and global DNA methylation status of fresh equine embryos collected on days seven and eight after ovulation. Although our results suggest some beneficial effects of storage at 20 °C in comparison to 5 °C, the short-term storage, regardless of temperature, modified gene expression and methylation of genes involved in embryo development and may compromise embryo viability and development after transfer.
Artificial Reproduction of Blue Bream (Ballerus ballerus L.) as a Conservative Method under Controlled Conditions
Authors: Piech Przemysław , Kujawa Roman
Published: May 2021

The blue bream Ballerus ballerus (L.) is one of two species of the Ballerus genus occurring in Europe. The biotechnology for its reproduction under controlled conditions needs to be developed to conserve its local populations. Therefore, a range of experiments were performed to obtain valuable gametes from blue bream following hormonal stimulation with carp pituitary homogenate (CPH), Ovopel and Ovaprim. CPH and Ovopel were injected twice and Ovaprim—once, under a pectoral fin. The spawners were inspected 12 h after the last injection, and the gametes were collected. Eggs were collected from spawning females and fertilized with sperm from three males. The smallest number of ovulating blue bream (four females) was obtained from individuals stimulated with Ovaprim. There were six to nine ovulating females in the other groups, accounting for 60–90% of the females in the respective groups. The latency period was the shortest in the spawners stimulated with Ovopel. The fish in this group ovulated 14 h after the hormonal injection. Spawning was synchronized and all females spawned simultaneously. The highest average weight of eggs per fish (75.4 g) was obtained from the females stimulated with Ovopel, whereas the individuals stimulated with Ovaprim provided the smallest average amount of eggs (49.5 g). The study showed that blue bream spawners are not very sensitive to reproduction-related handling under controlled conditions.
Oryzias curvinotus in Sanya Does Not Contain the Male Sex-Determining Gene dmy
Authors: Dong Zhongdian , Li Xueyou , Yao Zebin , Wang Chun , Guo Yusong , Wang Qian , Shao Changwei , Wang Zhongduo
Published: May 2021

Hainan medaka (Oryzias curvinotus) is distributed in the coastal waters of the South China Sea and is able to adapt to a wide range of salinities. In this study, we characterized O. curvinotus in Sanya River (SY-medaka), which lacks dmy (a male sex-determining gene in O. latipes and O. curvinotus). In a comparison of SY-medaka and Gaoqiao medaka (GQ-medaka), the morphological difference between the two populations does not reach the subspecies level and they can be considered two geographic populations of O. curvinotus. A mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (CoI) sequence alignment showed that the sequence identities between SY-medaka and other geographic populations of O. curvinotus are as high as 95%. A phylogenetic analysis of the mitochondrial genome also indicated that SY-medaka belongs to O. curvinotus. Molecular marker-based genetic sex assays and whole genome re-sequencing showed that SY-medaka does not contain dmy. Further, in RNA-Seq analyses of the testis and ovaries of sexually mature SY-medaka, dmy expression was not detected. We speculate that high temperatures resulted in the loss of dmy in SY-medaka during evolution, or the lineage has another sex-determining gene. This study provides a valuable dataset for elucidating the mechanism underlying sex determination in Oryzias genus and advances research on functional genomics or reproduction biology in O. curvinotus.
Comparison of Immunological Profiles of SARS-CoV-2 Variants in the COVID-19 Pandemic Trends: An Immunoinformatics Approach
Authors: Mallavarpu Ambrose Jenifer , Priya Veeraraghavan Vishnu , Kullappan Malathi , Chellapandiyan Poongodi , Krishna Mohan Surapaneni , Manivel Vivek Anand
Published: May 2021

The current dynamics of the COVID-19 pandemic have become a serious concern with the emergence of a series of mutant variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Unlike the previous strain, it is reported that the descendants are associated with increased risk of transmission yet causing less impact in terms of hospital admission, the severity of illness, or mortality. Moreover, the vaccine efficacy is also not believed to vary among the population depending on the variants of the virus and ethnicity. It has been determined that the mutations recorded in the spike gene and protein of the newly evolved viruses are specificallyresponsible for this transformation in the behavior of the virus and its disease condition. Hence, this study aimed to compare the immunogenic profiles of the spike protein from the latest variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus concerning the probability of COVID-19 severity. Genome sequences of the latest SARS-CoV-2 variants were obtained from GISAID and NCBI repositories. The translated protein sequences were run against T-cell and B-cell epitope prediction tools. Subsequently, antigenicity, immunogenicity, allergenicity, toxicity, and conservancy of the identified epitopes were ascertained using various prediction servers. Only the non-allergic and non-toxic potential epitopes were matched for population relevance by using the Human Leucocyte Antigen population registry in IEDB. Finally, the selected epitopes were validated by docking and simulation studies. The evaluated immunological parameters would concurrently reveal the severity of COVID-19, determining the infection rate of the pathogen. Our immunoinformatics approach disclosed that spike protein of the five variants was capable of forming potential T and B-cell epitopes with varying immune responses. Although the Wuhan strain showed a high number of epitope/HLA combinations, relatively less antigenicity and higher immunogenicity results in poor neutralizing capacity, which could be associated with increased disease severity. Our data demonstrate that increased viral antigenicity with moderate to high immunogenicity, and several potential epitope/HLA combinations in England strain, the USA, India, and South Africa variants, could possess a high neutralizing ability. Therefore, our findings reinforce that the newly circulating variants of SARS-CoV-2 might be associated with more infectiousness and less severe disease condition despite their greater viremia, as reported in the recent COVID-19 cases, whichconsequently determine their increased epidemiological fitness.
Antimicrobial Resistance Profiles of Human Commensal Neisseria Species
Authors: Goytia Maira , Thompson Symone T. , Jordan Skylar V. L. , King Kacey A.
Published: May 2021

Pathogenic Neisseria gonorrhoeae causes the sexually transmitted infection gonorrhea. N. gonorrhoeae has evolved high levels of antimicrobial resistance (AR) leading to therapeutic failures even in dual-therapy treatment with azithromycin and ceftriaxone. AR mechanisms can be acquired by genetic transfer from closely related species, such as naturally competent commensal Neisseria species. At present, little is known about the antimicrobial resistance profiles of commensal Neisseria. Here, we characterized the phenotypic resistance profile of four commensal Neisseria species (N. lactamica, N. cinerea, N. mucosa, and N. elongata) against 10 commonly used antibiotics, and compared their profiles to 4 N. gonorrhoeae strains, using disk diffusion and minimal inhibitory concentration assays. Overall, we observed that 3 of the 4 commensals were more resistant to several antibiotics than pathogenic N. gonorrhoeae strains. Next, we compared publicly available protein sequences of known AR genes, including penicillin-binding-protein 2 (PBP2) from commensals and N. gonorrhoeae strains. We found mutations in PBP2 known to confer resistance in N. gonorrhoeae also present in commensal Neisseria sequences. Our results suggest that commensal Neisseria have unexplored antibiotic resistance gene pools that may be exchanged with pathogenic N. gonorrhoeae, possibly impairing drug development and clinical treatment.
Particulate Matter, an Intrauterine Toxin Affecting Foetal Development and Beyond
Authors: Chen Hui , Oliver Brian G. , Pant Anushriya , Olivera Annabel , Poronnik Philip , Pollock Carol A. , Saad Sonia
Published: May 2021

Air pollution is the 9th cause of the overall disease burden globally. The solid component in the polluted air, particulate matters (PMs) with a diameter of 2.5 μm or smaller (PM2.5) possess a significant health risk to several organ systems. PM2.5 has also been shown to cross the blood–placental barrier and circulate in foetal blood. Therefore, it is considered an intrauterine environmental toxin. Exposure to PM2.5 during the perinatal period, when the foetus is particularly susceptible to developmental defects, has been shown to reduce birth weight and cause preterm birth, with an increase in adult disease susceptibility in the offspring. However, few studies have thoroughly studied the health outcome of foetuses due to intrauterine exposure and the underlying mechanisms. This perspective summarises currently available evidence, which suggests that intrauterine exposure to PM2.5 promotes oxidative stress and inflammation in a similar manner as occurs in response to direct PM exposure. Oxidative stress and inflammation are likely to be the common mechanisms underlying the dysfunction of multiple systems, offering potential targets for preventative strategies in pregnant mothers for an optimal foetal outcome.
Combined Melatonin and Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy Enhances Podocyte Protection and Ameliorates Kidney Function in a Diabetic Nephropathy Rat Model
Authors: Hsiao Chang-Chun , Hou You-Syuan , Liu Yu-Hsuan , Ko Jih-Yang , Lee Chien-Te
Published: May 2021

(1) Background: Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is common complication of diabetes. Current therapy for DN does not include promotion of podocyte protection. Therefore, we investigated the therapeutic effect of melatonin (Mel) combined extracorporeal shock wave (SW) therapy on a DN rat model. (2) Methods: The DN rats were treated with Mel (5 mg/kg) twice a week for 6 weeks and SW treatment once a week (0.13 mJ/mm2) for 6 weeks. We assessed urine microalbumin, albumin to creatinine ratio (ACR), glomerular hypertrophy, glomerular fibrosis, podocyte markers (Wilm’s tumor protein-1, synaptopodin and nephrin), cell proliferation, cell survival, cell apoptosis, renal inflammation and renal oxidative stress. (3) Results: The Mel combined SW therapy regimen significantly reduced urine microalbumin excretion (3.3 ± 0.5 mg/dL, p < 0.001), ACR (65.2 ± 8.3 mg/g, p < 0.001), glomerular hypertrophy (3.1 ± 0.1 × 106 μm3, p < 0.01) and glomerular fibrosis (0.9 ± 0.4 relative mRNA fold, p < 0.05). Moreover, the Mel combined SW therapy regimen significantly increased podocyte number (44.1 ± 5.0% area of synaptopodin, p < 0.001) in the Mel combined SW group. This is likely primarily because Mel combined with SW therapy significantly reduced renal inflammation (753 ± 46 pg/mg, p < 0.01), renal oxidative stress (0.6 ± 0.04 relative density, p < 0.05), and apoptosis (0.3 ± 0.03 relative density, p < 0.001), and also significantly increased cell proliferation (2.0 ± 0.2% area proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), p < 0.01), cell survival, and nephrin level (4.2 ± 0.4 ng/mL, p < 0.001). (4) Conclusions: Mel combined SW therapy enhances podocyte protection and ameliorates kidney function in a DN rat model. Mel combined SW therapy may serve as a novel noninvasive and effective treatment of DN.
Production and Characterization of Medium-Sized and Short Antioxidant Peptides from Soy Flour-Simulated Gastrointestinal Hydrolysate
Authors: Cavaliere Chiara , Montone Angela Michela Immacolata , Aita Sara Elsa , Capparelli Rosanna , Cerrato Andrea , Cuomo Paola , Laganà Aldo , Montone Carmela Maria , Piovesana Susy , Capriotti Anna Laura
Published: May 2021

Soybeans (Glycine max) are an excellent source of dietary proteins and peptides with potential biological activities, such as antihypertensive, anti-cholesterol, and antioxidant activity; moreover, they could prevent cancer. Also, soy contains all the essential amino acids for nutrition; therefore, it represents an alternative to animal proteins. The goal of this paper was the comprehensive characterization of medium-sized and short peptides (two to four amino acids) obtained from simulated gastrointestinal digestion. Two different analytical approaches were employed for peptide characterization, namely a common peptidomic analysis for medium-sized peptides and a suspect screening analysis for short peptides, employing an inclusion list of exact m/z values of all possible amino acid combinations. Moreover, fractionation by preparative reversed-phase liquid chromatography was employed to simplify the starting protein hydrolysate. Six fractions were collected and tested for antioxidative activity by an innovative antioxidant assay on human gastric adenocarcinoma AGS cell lines. The two most active fractions (2 and 3) were then characterized by a peptidomic approach and database search, as well as by a suspect screening approach, in order to identify potential antioxidant amino acid sequences. Some of the peptides identified in these two fractions have been already reported in the literature for their antioxidant activity.
Evaluating 3D Printers Using Data Envelopment Analysis
Authors: Papatheodorou Theodore , Giannatsis John , Dedoussis Vassilis
Published: May 2021

Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) is an established powerful mathematical programming technique, which has been employed quite extensively for assessing the efficiency/performance of various physical or virtual and simple or complex production systems, as well as of consumer and industrial products and technologies. The purpose of the present study is to investigate whether DEA may be employed for evaluating the technical efficiency/performance of 3D printers, an advanced manufacturing technology of increasing importance for the manufacturing sector. For this purpose, a representative sample of 3D printers based on Fused Deposition Modeling technology is examined. The technical factors/parameters of 3D printers, which are incorporated in the DEA, are investigated and discussed in detail. DEA evaluation results compare favorably with relevant benchmarks from experts, indicating that the suggested DEA technique in conjunction with technical and expert evaluation could be employed for evaluating the performance of a highly technological system, such as the 3D printer.
Potentially Toxic Trace Elements in the Urban Soils of Santiago de Compostela (Northwestern Spain)
Authors: Herbón Cecilia , Barral María Teresa , Paradelo Remigio
Published: May 2021

With the objective of increasing information inorganic pollutants in urban soils in Spain, we studied the presence of Cu, Pb, Zn, Ni, Cr, and As in 55 soils in the city of Santiago de Compostela (northwestern Spain). The soils were developed over diverse parent materials (granites, gneiss, schists, and amphibolites) and present different land uses, urban grasslands, urban forests, urban allotment gardens, and peri-urban agricultural soils. Total trace element concentrations, analyzed by XRF of ground samples, were correlated to physicochemical properties of the soils, and the influence of land use, lithology, and location on the degree of pollution was explored. In most soils, trace element concentrations followed the sequence Zn (55–484 mg kg−1) > Pb (20–566 mg kg−1) > Cr (17–277 mg kg−1) > Cu (17–188 mg kg−1) > As (13–205 mg kg−1) > Ni (11–91 mg kg−1). The concentrations were overall higher than regional backgrounds, but not high enough to class the soils as contaminated according to the Spanish regulation. Accordingly, the geoaccumulation index values indicate that most soils present low to moderate pollution levels. Among the elements studied, Cu, Pb, and Zn were correlated between them, with their highest concentrations happening in soils of the green areas in the city center; Cr and Ni concentrations were related to lithology of the parent material, with the highest concentrations in soils developed over amphibolite; finally, As concentrations are higher in two precise points without a clear connection to a known source of pollution.
The Processing of Calcium Rich Agricultural and Industrial Waste for Recovery of Calcium Carbonate and Calcium Oxide and Their Application for Environmental Cleanup: A Review
Authors: Yadav Virendra Kumar , Yadav Krishna Kumar , Cabral-Pinto Marina M. S. , Choudhary Nisha , Gnanamoorthy Govindhan , Tirth Vineet , Prasad Shiv , Khan Afzal Husain , Islam Saiful , Khan Nadeem A.
Published: May 2021

Every year a million tonnes of calcium rich agro and industrial waste are generated around the whole globe. These calcium rich waste like finger citron, shells of cockle, mussel, oysters etc., and egg shell are biological sources which have various organic compounds. The inorganic calcium rich waste includes gypsum, dolomite, sludge etc., which are produced in surplus amount globally. Most of these by-products are mainly dumped, while few are used for land-filling purposes which leads to the pollution. These agro and industrial by-products could be processed for the recovery of calcium carbonate and calcium oxide particles by physical and chemical method. The recovery of calcium carbonate and calcium oxide particles from such by products make them biocompatible. Moreover, the products are economical due to their synthesis from waste materials. Here, in this current review work we have emphasized on the all the calcium rich agro industries and industrial by products, especially their processing by various approaches. Further, we have also focused on the properties and application of such calcium carbonate and oxide particles for the remediation of organic and inorganic pollutants from the environments. The recovery of such particles from these byproducts is considered not only economical and eco-friendly but it also minimizes the pollution present in the form of solid waste.
Numerical Study on Airfoil Aerodynamics in Proximity to Wavy Water Surface for Various Amplitudes
Authors: Liu Xing’an , Ma Dongli , Yang Muqing , Guo Yang , Hu Haode
Published: May 2021

Wing–in–ground crafts will face waves with different amplitudes when flying over the ocean, and the high amplitude situations are especially lack of exploration. Hence, the aerodynamic characteristics of the NACA 4412 airfoil in proximity to the wavy water surface for various wave amplitudes are inspected in this paper. By solving Navier–Stokes equations, the lift coefficients of the airfoil when the angle of attack ranges from 0° to 4° are obtained. The results show that the fluctuation amplitudes of aerodynamic coefficients increase remarkably with successive increases in the wave amplitude and might threaten flight safety. The flow fields at 0° with low and high wave amplitudes are investigated. It is revealed that the upward movement of the water surface is the critical factor for the change of aerodynamics, and the mechanism varies with different wave amplitudes. Comparison of the flow fields at 0° and 2° further indicates that the influence of high amplitude waves depends on the distance between the leading edge of the airfoil and the water surface. This study discovers the reasons for the different aerodynamic characteristics under various wave amplitudes and angles of attack, and is of great value for the design of wing–in–ground crafts.
Functional Food Product Based on Nanoselenium-Enriched Lactobacillus casei against Cadmium Kidney Toxicity
Authors: Vicas Simona Ioana , Laslo Vasile , Timar Adrian Vasile , Balta Cornel , Herman Hildegard , Ciceu Alina , Gharbia Sami , Rosu Marcel , Mladin Bianca , Fritea Luminita , Cavalu Simona , Cotoraci Coralia , Prokisch József , Puschita Maria , Pop Calin , Miutescu Eftimie , Hermenean Anca
Published: May 2021

This paper demonstrates the ability of a functional food based on probiotics and selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) to annihilate the toxic effect of cadmium on the kidneys. SeNPs were obtained by eco-friendly method used Lactobacillus casei. The morphological features and size of SeNPS were characterized by Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS). Two kind of SeNPs were used, purified and Lacto-SeNPs (LSeNPs), administered by gavage at three concentrations (0.1, 0.2, and 0.4 mg/Kg b.w.) for 30 days in a mouse model of cadmium renal toxicity. The blood marker of renal injury (creatinine) significantly decreased in groups where the mice were treated with both form of SeNPs. The antioxidant capacity of plasma was evaluated by Trolox Equivalent Antioxidant Capacity (TEAC) assay and revealed that SeNPs in co-treatment with Cd, promotes maintaining antioxidant activity at the control level. Histopathological analysis of kidneys demonstrated morphological alteration in the group that received only cadmium and restored after administration of SeNPs or LSeNPs. In addition, immunohistochemical analysis revealed anti-apoptotic effects through reduction of pro-apoptotic bax and increasing of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein expressions. Moreover, co-administration of Cd with SeNPs significantly decreased gene expression of kidneys inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-6, NF-ĸB) in a dose dependent manner, with the best results for LSeNPs at highest dose (0.4 mg/kg). Therefore, the L. casei strain is a potential SeNPs-enriched probiotic for application as functional food in the future to annihilate cadmium-induced kidneys toxicity.
State Machine-Based Hybrid Position/Force Control Architecture for a Waste Management Mobile Robot with 5DOF Manipulator
Authors: Gal Ionel-Alexandru , Ciocîrlan Alexandra-Cătălina , Mărgăritescu Mihai
Published: May 2021

When robots are built with state-driven motors, task-planning increases in complexity and difficulty. This type of actuator is difficult to control, because each type of control position/force requires different motor parameters. To solve this problem, we propose a state machine-driven hybrid position/force control architecture (SmHPFC). To achieve this, we take the classic hybrid position/force control method, while using only PID regulators, and add a state machine on top of it. In this way, the regulators will not help the control architecture, but the architecture will help the entire control system. The architecture acts both as a parameter update process and as a switching mechanism for the joints’ decision S-matrix. The obtained control architecture was then applied to a 5DOF serial manipulator built with Festo motors. Using SmHPFC, the robot was then able to operate with position or force control depending on its designated task. Without the proposed architecture, the robot joint parameters would have to be updated using a more rigid approach; each time a new task begins with new parameters, the control type would have to be changed. Using the SmHPFC, the robot reference generation and task complexity is reduced to a much simpler one.
Detection of Preferential Water Flow by Electrical Resistivity Tomography and Self-Potential Method
Authors: Kukemilks Karlis , Wagner Jean-Frank
Published: May 2021

This study explores the hydrogeological conditions of a landslide-prone hillslope in the Upper Mosel valley, Luxembourg. The investigation program included the monitoring of piezometer wells, hydrogeological field tests, analysis of drillcore records, and geophysical surveys. Monitoring and field testing in some of the observation wells indicated very pronounced preferential flow. Electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) and self-potential geophysical methods were employed in the study area for exploration of the morphology of preferential flowpaths. Possible signals associated with flowing groundwater in the subsurface were detected; however, they were diffusively spread over a relatively large zone, which did not allow for the determination of an exact morphology of the conduit. Analysis of drillcore records indicated that flowpaths are caused by the dissolution of thin gypsum interlayers in marls. For better understanding of the site’s hydrogeological settings, a 3D hydrogeological model was compiled. By applying different subsurface flow mechanisms, a hydrogeological model with thin, laterally extending flowpaths embedded in a porous media matrix showed the best correspondence with field observations. Simulated groundwater heads in a preferential flow conduit exactly corresponded with the observed heads in the piezometer wells. This study illustrates how hydrogeological monitoring and geophysical surveys in conjunction with the newest hydrogeological models allow for better conceptualization and parametrization of preferential flow.
Evaluation of Artificial Intelligence-Based Models for Classifying Defective Photovoltaic Cells
Authors: Pérez-Romero Álvaro , Mateo-Romero Héctor Felipe , Gallardo-Saavedra Sara , Alonso-Gómez Víctor , Alonso-García María del Carmen , Hernández-Callejo Luis
Published: May 2021

Solar Photovoltaic (PV) energy has experienced an important growth and prospect during the last decade due to the constant development of the technology and its high reliability, together with a drastic reduction in costs. This fact has favored both its large-scale implementation and small-scale Distributed Generation (DG). PV systems integrated into local distribution systems are considered to be one of the keys to a sustainable future built environment in Smart Cities (SC). Advanced Operation and Maintenance (O&M) of solar PV plants is necessary. Powerful and accurate data are usually obtained on-site by means of current-voltage (I-V) curves or electroluminescence (EL) images, with new equipment and methodologies recently proposed. In this work, authors present a comparison between five AI-based models to classify PV solar cells according to their state, using EL images at the PV solar cell level, while the cell I-V curves are used in the training phase to be able to classify the cells based on its production efficiency. This automatic classification of defective cells enormously facilitates the identification of defects for PV plant operators, decreasing the human labor and optimizing the defect location. In addition, this work presents a methodology for the selection of important variables for the training of a defective cell classifier.
Antibacterial and Anti-Inflammatory Potential of Mouthwash Composition Based on Natural Extracts
Authors: Lee Sung-Ho , Kim Won-Hyeon , Ju Kyung-Won , Lee Min-Sun , Kim Han-Soo , Lee Jong-Ho , Jung Yu-Jin , Kim Bong-Ju
Published: May 2021

Mouthwash contains chlorhexidine, triclosan, cetylpyridinium chloride, benzethonium chloride, and fluoride. However, continuous use of these chemical substance affects both pathogenic and nonpathogenic oral bacteria and causes an imbalance in the oral environment, which is known to affect not only oral diseases but also systemic diseases. Therefore, in this study, we observed the possibility of replacing the composition of chemical compound mouthwash with a natural extract. Platycodon grandiflorum (PG), Chaenomeles sinensis Koehne (CSK), and Siraitia grosvenorii (SG) were used as natural extracts, and a mixture of enzyme salt, xylitol, mint, green tea, lemon, and propolis were used as the natural extract mixture series (M1–M5). The natural extracts and natural mixture series were evaluated for the antibacterial effect, anti-inflammatory effect, cell viability, and nitric oxide (NO) assay using eleven types of pathogenic oral bacteria, two types of nonpathogenic oral bacteria, and macrophages RAW 264.7 cells. Cell viability was measured as about 35.9–46.7% for the control group (GA and LIS), about 36.3–57.7% for the natural extract group (PG, CSK, SG), and about 95.8–97.9% for the natural extract mixture series group (M1–M5). In the NO assay tested with lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated inflammatory responses, the control group was measured at about 89%, the natural extracts group were measured at 84–88%, and the natural extract mixture series group at about 54–82%. It was observed that some natural extracts (PG, SG) and natural extract mixtures (M4, M5) inhibited LPS-induced NO production, which meant that natural extracts had anti-inflammation potential. In conclusion, it was observed that natural extracts mixed in proper proportions affect pathogenic oral bacteria and not nonpathogenic oral bacteria. It is considered that appropriately formulated natural extracts can maintain a healthy oral environment and further replace commercial mouthwash based on chemical compound mixtures.
Assessment of a Fusion Sea Surface Temperature Product for Numerical Weather Predictions in China: A Case Study
Authors: Qu Ping , Wang Wei , Liu Zhijie , Gong Xiaoqing , Shi Chunxiang , Xu Bin
Published: May 2021

A common approach used for multi-source observation data blending is the fusion method. This study assesses the applicability of the first-generation fusion sea surface temperature (SST) product of the China Meteorological Administration (CMA) in the Yellow–Bohai Sea region for numerical weather predictions. First, daily and 6 h fusion SST measurements are compared with data derived from 21 buoy sites for 2019 to 2020. The error analysis results show that the root-mean-square error (RMSE) of the daily SST ranges from 0.64 to 1.36 °C (overall RMSE of 0.996 °C). The RMSE of the 6 h SST varies from 0.64 to 1.73 °C (overall RMSE of 1.06 °C). According to the simulation result, the SST difference could affect the value and location distribution of liquid water content in the fog area. A lower SST is favorable for increasing the liquid water content, which fits the mechanisms of advection fog formation by warm air flowing over colder water.
Risk of COVID-19 in Chagas Disease Patients: What Happen with Cardiac Affectations?
Authors: Diaz-Hernandez Alejandro , Gonzalez-Vazquez Maria Cristina , Arce-Fonseca Minerva , Rodriguez-Morales Olivia , Cedilllo-Ramirez Maria Lilia , Carabarin-Lima Alejandro
Published: May 2021

Background: Chagas disease is considered a neglected tropical disease. The acute phase of Chagas disease is characterized by several symptoms: fever, fatigue, body aches, headache and cardiopathy’s. Chronic phase could be asymptomatic or symptomatic with cardiac compromise. Since the emergence of the pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the cardiovascular involvement has been identified as a complication commonly reported in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Due to the lack of knowledge of the cardiac affectations that this virus could cause in patients with Chagas disease, the aim of this review is to describe the possible cardiac affectations, as well as the treatment and recommendations that patients with both infections should carry out. Methods: The authors revised the recent and relevant literature concerning the topic and discussed advances and limitations of studies on COVID-19 and their impact in Chagas disease patients, principally with cardiac affectations. Results: There currently exists little information about the consequences that Chagas disease patients can suffer when they are infected with COVID-19. Conclusions: This review highlights the emerging challenges of access to medical care and future research needs in order to understand the implications that co-infections (SARS-CoV-2 or other viruses) can generate in Chagas disease-infected people.
Immunothrombosis in COVID-19: Implications of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps
Authors: Bautista-Becerril Brandon , Campi-Caballero Rebeca , Sevilla-Fuentes Samuel , Hernández-Regino Laura M. , Hanono Alejandro , Flores-Bustamante Al , González-Flores Julieta , García-Ávila Carlos A. , Aquino-Gálvez Arnoldo , Castillejos-López Manuel , Juárez-Cisneros Armida , Camarena Angel
Published: May 2021

SARS-CoV-2 is a member of the family of coronaviruses associated with severe outbreaks of respiratory diseases in recent decades and is the causative agent of the COVID-19 pandemic. The recognition by and activation of the innate immune response recruits neutrophils, which, through their different mechanisms of action, form extracellular neutrophil traps, playing a role in infection control and trapping viral, bacterial, and fungal etiological agents. However, in patients with COVID-19, activation at the vascular level, combined with other cells and inflammatory mediators, leads to thrombotic events and disseminated intravascular coagulation, thus leading to a series of clinical manifestations in cerebrovascular, cardiac, pulmonary, and kidney disease while promoting severe disease and mortality. Previous studies of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 have shown that elevated levels of markers specific for NETs, such as free DNA, MPO, and H3Cit, are strongly associated with the total neutrophil count; with acute phase reactants that include CRP, D-dimer, lactate dehydrogenase, and interleukin secretion; and with an increased risk of severe COVID-19. This study analyzed the interactions between NETs and the activation pathways involved in immunothrombotic processes in patients with COVID-19.
Troponin T Mutation as a Cause of Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction in a Young Patient with Previous Surgical Correction of Aortic Coarctation
Authors: Caiazza Martina , Lioncino Michele , Monda Emanuele , Di Fraia Francesco , Verrillo Federica , Pacileo Roberta , Amodio Federica , Rubino Marta , Cirillo Annapaola , Fusco Adelaide , Romeo Emanuele , Scatteia Alessandra , Dellegrottaglie Santo , Calabrò Paolo , Sarubbi Berardo , Baban Anwar , Frisso Giulia , Russo Maria Giovanna , Limongelli Giuseppe
Published: May 2021

Coarctation of the aorta is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD). Lifelong surveillance is mandatory to screen for possible long-term cardiovascular events. Left ventricular systolic dysfunction has been reported in association with recoarctation, and association with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCMP) is very rare. Herein, we report the case of a 19-year-old boy with coarctation of the aorta who complained of mild exertional dyspnea. Cardiac magnetic resonance revealed a moderately dilated, hypokinetic left ventricle (LV), with mildly reduced EF (45%), and residual isthmic coarctation was excluded. Genetic tests revealed a heterozygous missense variant in TNNT2 (NM_001001430.2): c.518G>A (p. Arg173Gln). This case highlights the role of careful history taking: a family history of cardiomyopathy should not be overlooked even when the clinical setting seems to suggest a predisposition to hemodynamic factors for LVSD.
Macrophages and Stem Cells—Two to Tango for Tissue Repair?
Authors: Manole Emilia , Niculite Cristina , Lambrescu Ioana Maria , Gaina Gisela , Ioghen Octavian , Ceafalan Laura Cristina , Hinescu Mihail Eugen
Published: May 2021

Macrophages (MCs) are present in all tissues, not only supporting homeostasis, but also playing an important role in organogenesis, post-injury regeneration, and diseases. They are a heterogeneous cell population due to their origin, tissue specificity, and polarization in response to aggression factors, depending on environmental cues. Thus, as pro-inflammatory M1 phagocytic MCs, they contribute to tissue damage and even fibrosis, but the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype participates in repairing processes and wound healing through a molecular interplay with most cells in adult stem cell niches. In this review, we emphasize MC phenotypic heterogeneity in health and disease, highlighting their systemic and systematic contribution to tissue homeostasis and repair. Unraveling the intervention of both resident and migrated MCs on the behavior of stem cells and the regulation of the stem cell niche is crucial for opening new perspectives for novel therapeutic strategies in different diseases.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Dietary Plant Stanol Supplementation Are Largely Dependent on the Intake of Cholesterol in a Mouse Model of Metabolic Inflammation
Authors: Magro dos Reis Inês , Houben Tom , Gijbels Marion J. J. , Lütjohann Dieter , Plat Jogchum , Shiri-Sverdlov Ronit
Published: May 2021

The prevalence of metabolic disorders characterized by chronic inflammation has been on a sharp rise for decades. As such, tools that address metabolic and inflammatory dysregulation are of great importance. Plant stanols are well-known for reducing intestinal cholesterol absorption and may also have direct anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, our aim was to investigate to what extent the benefits of dietary plant stanol supplementation depend on dietary cholesterol intake in an experimental mouse model for cholesterol-induced metabolic inflammation. Here, we used Ldlr−/− mice transplanted with Npc1nih-derived bone marrow, featuring feature bone marrow-derived immune cells characterized by chronic inflammation induced by lysosomal lipid accumulation. Npc1nih- and Npc1wt-transplanted mice were placed on either a high fat, high cholesterol (HFC) or on a chow diet low in cholesterol, with or without 2% plant stanols supplementation. At the end of the study, the metabolic and inflammatory status of the mice was analyzed. Plant stanol supplementation to the HFC diet reduced liver cholesterol levels and improved lipid metabolism and liver inflammation, particularly in Npc1nih-tp mice. In contrast, plant stanol supplementation to the chow diet did not significantly improve the aforementioned parameters, though similar reductive trends to those in the HFC diet setting were observed regarding liver cholesterol accumulation and liver inflammatory markers. The effects of dietary plant stanol supplementation on dietary cholesterol-induced inflammation are largely dependent on dietary cholesterol intake. Future research should verify whether other models of metabolic inflammation exhibit similar stanol-related effects on inflammation.
Carotid Atherosclerosis, Ultrasound and Lipoproteins
Authors: Iannuzzi Arcangelo , Rubba Paolo , Gentile Marco , Mallardo Vania , Calcaterra Ilenia , Bresciani Alessandro , Covetti Giuseppe , Cuomo Gianluigi , Merone Pasquale , Di Lorenzo Anna , Alfieri Roberta , Aliberti Emilio , Giallauria Francesco , Di Minno Matteo Nicola Dario , Iannuzzo Gabriella
Published: May 2021

Carotid artery plaques are considered a measure of atherosclerosis and are associated with an increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, particularly ischemic strokes. Monitoring of patients with an elevated risk of stroke is critical in developing better prevention strategies. Non-invasive imaging allows us to directly see atherosclerosis in vessels and many features that are related to plaque vulnerability. A large body of evidence has demonstrated a strong correlation between some lipid parameters and carotid atherosclerosis. In this article, we review the relationship between lipids and atherosclerosis with a focus on carotid ultrasound, the most common method to estimate atherosclerotic load.
Direct Bioelectrocatalytic Oxidation of Glucose by Gluconobacter oxydans Membrane Fractions in PEDOT:PSS/TEG-Modified Biosensors
Authors: Kitova Anna , Tarasov Sergei , Plekhanova Yulia , Bykov Aleksandr , Reshetilov Anatoly
Published: May 2021

Recent years have witnessed an ever-increasing interest in developing electrochemical biosensors based on direct electron transfer-type bioelectrocatalysis. This work investigates the bioelectrocatalytic oxidation of glucose by membrane fractions of Gluconobacter oxydans cells on screen-printed electrodes modified with thermally expanded graphite and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS). Electrooxidation of glucose was shown to occur without the presence of electron transport mediators. Chronoamperometric and cyclic voltametric characteristics showed an increase of anodic currents at electrode potentials of 0–500 mV relative to the reference electrode (Ag/AgCl). The direct electron transfer effect was observed for non-modified PEDOT:PSS as well as for PEDOT:PSS linked with crosslinkers and conductive fillers such as polyethylene glycol diglycidyl or dimethyl sulfoxide. Bioelectrodes with this composite can be successfully used in fast reagent-free glucose biosensors.
Effect of Intravenous Chemotherapy Regimen on Globe Salvage Success Rates for Retinoblastoma Based on Disease Class—A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Daniels Anthony B. , Patel Shriji N. , Milam Ronald W. , Kohanim Sahar , Friedman Debra L. , Koyama Tatsuki
Published: May 2021

To evaluate the relative efficacy of novel retinoblastoma treatments, eye classification-specific success rates for current standard-of-care intravenous chemotherapy regimens must be known. This meta-analysis included studies if: (1) patients received intravenous chemotherapy for retinoblastoma, (2) globe salvage data was reported, (3) only intravenous chemoreduction (with/without local consolidation) was used. The outcome measure was globe salvage success without need for salvage radiotherapy, subdivided by disease classification and chemotherapy regimen. Data from 27 studies (1483 eyes) were pooled. By Reese–Ellsworth classification, globe salvage rates were 85% (95%CI:73–92%) for Group I, 78% (95%CI:70–85%) for Group II, 68% (95%CI:56–78%) for Group III, 47% (95%CI:34–60%) for Group IV, and 35% (95%CI:26–45%) for Group V (Va: 35% [95%CI:21–54%]; Vb: 42% [95%CI:29–56%]; those without sub-classification: 31% [95%CI:19–47%]). By International Classification, globe salvage rates were 93% (95%CI:80–97%) for Group A, 83% (95%CI:73–89%) for Group B, 73% (95%CI:54–86%) for Group C, 40% (95%CI:31–51%) for Group D, and 19% (95%CI:5–50%) for Group E. Standard carboplatin-etoposide-vincristine out-performed two-drug regimens (odds ratio (OR) = 1.9 (95%CI:1.3–3.0) for Groups I-IV and OR = 2.1 (95%CI:1.3–3.4) for Group V; p = 0.002 for each). For eyes with diffuse vitreous seeds (Vb), an enhanced regimen out-performed standard chemotherapy (OR = 2.4 [95%CI:1.3–4.7]; p = 0.004). In conclusion, two-drug regimens were less effective for all eyes, whereas enhanced regimens were more effective for eyes with vitreous seeds. Novel therapies can now be compared to these baseline globe salvage rates.
V-Domain Ig Suppressor of T Cell Activation (VISTA) Expression Is an Independent Prognostic Factor in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Mutsaers Pim , Balcioglu Hayri E. , Kuiper Rowan , Hammerl Dora , Wijers Rebecca , van Duin Mark , van der Holt Bronno , Broijl Annemiek , Gregory Walter , Zweegman Sonja , Sonneveld Pieter , Debets Reno
Published: May 2021

Multiple myeloma (MM) is characterized by loss of anti-tumor T cell immunity. Despite moderate success of treatment with anti-PD1 antibodies, effective treatment is still challenged by poor T cell-mediated control of MM. To better enable identification of shortcomings in T-cell immunity that relate to overall survival (OS), we interrogated transcriptomic data of bone marrow samples from eight clinical trials (n = 1654) and one trial-independent patient cohort (n = 718) for multivariate analysis. Gene expression of V-domain Ig suppressor of T cell activation (VISTA) was observed to correlate to OS [hazard ratio (HR): 0.72; 95% CI: 0.61–0.83; p = 0.005]. Upon imaging the immune contexture of MM bone marrow tissues (n = 22) via multiplex in situ stainings, we demonstrated that VISTA was expressed predominantly by CD11b+ myeloid cells. The combination of abundance of VISTA+, CD11b+ cells in the tumor but not stromal tissue together with low presence of CD8+ T cells in the same tissue compartment, termed a high VISTA-associated T cell exclusion score, was significantly associated with short OS [HR: 16.6; 95% CI: 4.54–62.50; p < 0.0001]. Taken together, the prognostic value of a combined score of VISTA+, CD11b+ and CD8+ cells in the tumor compartment could potentially be utilized to guide stratification of MM patients for immune therapies.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Surgical Treatment Patterns for Colorectal Cancer in a Tertiary Medical Facility in Korea
Authors: Choi Ju Yeon , Park In Ja , Lee Hyun Gu , Cho Eunhae , Kim Young Il , Kim Chan Wook , Yoon Yong Sik , Lim Seok-Byung , Yu Chang Sik , Kim Jin Cheon
Published: May 2021

Because of their reluctance to visit the hospital due to concerns about contracting coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), patients with colorectal cancer have been affected by delays in care during the pandemic. This study assessed the effects of the pandemic on the clinical characteristics and surgical treatment patterns of colorectal cancer patients at a tertiary medical facility in Korea. Patients who underwent colorectal cancer surgery at our institution between March and September 2020 were analyzed. Clinicopathological and treatment characteristics were compared with those of patients who underwent surgery in 2018 and 2019. The patients who did not undergo tumor resection (4.1% vs. 1.8%, p < 0.001) and who received neoadjuvant treatment (16.7% vs. 14.7%, p = 0.039) were significantly higher during the COVID period. The minimally invasive approach was performed less during the COVID period (81.2% vs. 88%, p < 0.001). More patients in the COVID period required combined resection of organs adjacent to the tumor (4.8% vs. 2.8%, p = 0.017). Surgical aggressiveness, as shown by the proportion of patients undergoing minimally invasive surgery and adjacent organ resection, was significantly influenced by the pandemic. In addition, resectability decreased during the COVID period. These characteristics will likely influence long-term oncological outcomes, indicating the need for long-term monitoring of this cohort.