bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Equivalent circuits of FeCoZr-alloy nanoparticles deposited into Al2O3 and PZT dielectric matrices nanogranular composite films
Authors: Larkin Andrei V. , Fedotov Alexander K.
Published: November 2022

The paper presents equivalent substitution circuits (ESCs) describing nanogranular composite films (Fe0.45Cо0.45Zr0.10)x(Al2O3)1 – x and (Fe0.45Cо0.45Zr0.10)x(PZT)1 – x with a concentration of metal-containing granules in the range 0.3 < х < 0.8. Films of 2–7 μm thick were obtained by ion-beam sputtering of composite targets in pure argon or in Ar – O2 mixture, followed by stepwise (with a step of 25 K) isochronous (15 min) annealing in air in the temperature range of 398 – 873 K. Deposition of nanocomposites in an oxygen-containing atmosphere or subsequent annealing in air led to the formation of nanoparticles with a core – shell structure consisting of Fe0.45Cо0.45Zr0.10 metallic alloy cores coated with shells of native iron and cobalt oxides (FeO, Fe3O4, Fe2O3, CoO). It has been established that when such shells contain semiconductor-type iron oxides (like FeO and Fe3O4) the frequency dependences of the total impedance Z (f, T) of nanocomposites can be described using ESCs containing two resonant RCL-circuits, that is accompanied by a positive phase shift of the current relative to the applied bias voltage (the so-called negative capacitance effect). The prevailing of dielectric-like oxides (Fe2O3) in shells around metallic cores leads to ESCs either with one resonant RCL-circuit or without it at all. This results in disappearing of the negative capacitance effect when usual capacitive-like behaviour of nanocomposite behaviour is observed. It is shown that if we construct ESCs for nanocomposites with different ratios of the metallic (FeCoZr) and dielectric (Al2O3, PZT) components, it is possible to describe the Z (f, T) dependences for every circuit elements (R, C, L) corresponding both to individual phase components in nanocomposites including intrinsic semiconductor- or dielectric-like iron and cobalt oxides in shells around metallic cores.
Measuring liquid density in a system for ensuring uniformity of measurements
Authors: Bakovets Nickolay V. , Konicheva Ekaterina N.
Published: November 2022

The article presents the results of a study aimed at creating the national standard for liquid density. The standard provides reproduction, storage and transmission of the liquid density unit in the range from 650 to 2000 kg/m3. Based on the method of hydrostatic weighing, the measurement of liquid density was implemented in accordance with the GOST OIML R 111-1-2009 «State system for ensuring the uniformity of measurements. Weights of classes Е1, Е2, F1, F2, M1, M1–2, M2, M2–3 and M3. Part 1. Metrological and technical requirements». It is shown that the use of a high-precision mass comparator can significantly reduce the systematic measurement error and the standard deviation when reproducing and transferring the unit of liquid density to reference measuring instruments of the 1st and 2nd category and working measuring instruments. A method for transferring a unit of liquid density by means of a standard density measure – a silicon sphere and a comparator liquid – has been implemented, which made it possible to exclude the transfer link in the form of a standard liquid density solution. In the range of reproduction, storage and transmission of the liquid density unit, a systematic error of 2.1 ⋅ 10–3 kg/m3 was obtained, the standard deviation in the reproduction of the liquid density unit was 4.0 ⋅ 10–4 kg/m3, the standard deviation of the total error in the transmission of the liquid density unit 3.14 ⋅ 10–3 kg/m3.
Classification of Norway spruce drying states on the basis of reflection spectra
Authors: Martinov Anton O.
Published: November 2022

The article is devoted to the development of a method for classifying the reflection spectra of spruce needles of different health categories and assessing the quality of the classification. Such health categories of spruces have been chosen that include the initial stages of drying out, which is essential for early detection of disease foci, but makes it difficult to classify according to visual criteria by means of remote sensing of the Earth. An algorithm for untrained classification and visualisation of spectral data based on correlation and cluster analysis is proposed. The reflection spectra of spruce needles obtained under laboratory conditions were studied and the results were interpreted using the developed software. The analysis of various combinations of parameters within the proposed algorithm, as well as combinations of individual components of the algorithm with known classification methods, made it possible to determine the most effective combination of parameters and classification methods (projection of spectra into the space of principal components, elimination of the influence of the first principal component on spectra, the Ward cluster linking metric and the standardised Euclidean metric for calculating the spectral distance) for detection of different stages of spruce disease. Its use to made it possible to increase the F-score classification quality indicator for the 2nd health category (the most important category for the task of detecting drying in the early stages) up to 70.59 %.
Influence of high-temperature ion irradiation on nanostructured TiAlN coatings
Authors: Konstantinov Stanislav V. , Komarov Fadei F. , Chizhov Igor V. , Żuk Jerzy , Zaikov Valery A.
Published: November 2022

Nanostructured TiAlN coatings were formed on AISI 304 stainless steel substrates by reactive magnetron sputtering. The studied TiAlN coatings were irradiated with Ar+ ions with an energy of 200 keV in the fluence range from 2.5 ⋅ 1016 to 2.0 ⋅ 1017 ion per 1 cm2 at a temperature of 480 °C. Using energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction phase analysis, the elemental composition, structural-phase state and morphology of the initial and irradiated coatings were studied. Nanoindentation of the obtained structures was carried out according to the method of Oliver and Pharr, the nanohardness (Н) and Young’s modulus (E) were determined, and the impact strength of the coatings under study was calculated as the H/E∗ ratio. The formation of a single-phase structure of the (Ti, Al)N solid solution in the coatings initial state has been detected. The effect of selective sputtering of the lightest component – nitrogen – from the coatings was found. Up to an irradiation fluence of 1.0 ⋅ 1017 ion per 1 cm2, no significant changes were revealed in the structural-phase state of the coatings. When irradiated with a fluence of 2.5 ⋅ 1016 ion per 1 cm2, an improvement in the TiAlN coatings strength properties complex was observed. It has been found that nanostructured TiAlN coatings are radiation-resistant up to an irradiation fluence of 2.0 ⋅ 1017 ion per 1 cm2, at which the onset of segregation of the (Ti, Al)N solid solution as the main phase of the coatings and blistering effect is observed.
«Uncanny valley» effect in holographic image transmission
Authors: Shoydin Sergey A. , Pazoev Artem L.
Published: November 2022

The quality of computer-synthesised images is continuously improving, increasing in the volume of files representing them. It is noticed that passing from simple schematic images to increasingly complex ones, their perception goes through different stages. If initially the complication of the image and its approximation to the real image of a person makes a favourable impression, then there comes a moment of fright and rejection. Masahiro Mori called it the «uncanny valley» effect. Since then, all new technologies for presenting human images have been tested in order to avoid this effect. This effect should be treated especially carefully when compressing and then restoring complex images. This paper shows the position relative to the «uncanny valley» of the reconstructed 3D images, reconstructed by a hologram synthesised and transmitted with compression over the communication channel in accordance with patent RU2707582C1.
Increasing the metrological characteristics of anechoic chambers due to a posteriori analysis based on artificial neural networks
Authors: Harshkova Yuliya S. , Maly Sergey V. , Tkachenia Andrei V. , Kheidorov Igor E.
Published: November 2022

This article considers the possibility of improving the metrological characteristics of an anechoic chamber due to a posteriori processing of measurement results based on a generative adversarial model of an artificial neural network in order to reduce the influence on the distribution of the electromagnetic field in the measuring zone of waves reflected from the outer boundaries of the chamber and the equipment located in it. The training of the neural network was carried out on a data set obtained as part of a computational experiment and including the distribution of the electromagnetic field in the anechoic region for the model of an anechoic chamber and free space for given source layouts. The distributions of the real and imaginary parts of the electric component of the electromagnetic field were encoded with colour images. On the example of two-dimensional models of anechoic chambers, the practical feasibility of the proposed approach to a posteriori processing of measurement results is shown. Methods for estimating the accuracy of a posteriori processing of measurement results based on the metrics used to assess the quality of graphic images and calculating the errors in the amplitudes of the electric component of the electromagnetic field are given. The possibility of implementing the proposed method of a posteriori analysis in the framework of natural microwave measurements in anechoic chambers is assessed.
Effectiveness Verification of Various English Word Learning Methods: Focused on Simple Memorization, Keyword Method, and Visual Storytelling
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Lee Hong-Jae
Published: November 2022

We conducted a study to investigate a correlation between psychological factors such as stress level, memory efficacy, and learning confidence in learning methods on simple memorization(SM), keyword methods(KW), and visual storytelling(VS). Based on the data obtained from a survey conducted on 120 undergraduate and graduate students, we proceeded much analysis over each and every factor between the methods. As a result, VS showed superiority over SM. The three methods showed significant differences in learning stress, memory efficacy, and learning confidence in memory methods. What has been revealed about the relationship between them is that VS showed relatively low-stress levels and high memory efficacy and learning confidence. However, SM expressed a higher stress level than the other two learning methods as the memory efficacy and learning confidence were lower in SM. Through this study, we concluded that image and storytelling contents could relieve much stress on students and improve memory efficiency and learning confidence in learning methods on various new vocabulary.
Exploring Learners' Experiences and Changes in Global Service Learning: Focusing on the S Women's University Case
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Ahn Miri , Park In Sim
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this study is to analyze the service-learning experiences of college students who participated in English subjects applying service-learning and explore the effects. A total of 26 Korean students participated in this study, and assisted Australian university students in learning learn Korean language and culture. Qualitative research methods were used to analyze the data collected from weekly reflection logs, journals submitted at the end of the semester, mid-term/final-term evaluation meeting. According to the findings, students were motivated participate in the service-learning because they wanted to improve English proficiency, communicate with people from other cultures and earn an additional credit. Plus, it was found that students engaged in preparing, implementing, developing strategies, and reflecting. Suggestions were made for future global service learning at higher education settings.
A Study on the Characteristics of Metaverse Environment-based Performing Arts Contents: Focusing on the cases in Korea
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Park Jinwon , Kim gaeun
Published: November 2022

Along with rapid conversion to the digital age, the metaverse is influencing various industries. Accordingly, performing arts industry, too, is trying convergence to develop metaverse environment-based performing arts contents and extend artistic value. The purpose of this study is to examine the cases of metaverse environment-based performing arts contents in Korea currently in early stages and analyze the key points and implications at the planning and production stages according to the goals of production. This is one of the most important tasks to improve the quality of metaverse performing arts contents and increase the value of products through distinctiveness among various culture and arts contents. If it is activated to accept and create metaverse environment-based performing arts contents, it will be possible to heighten the popularity of the performing arts area and expand the base of performing arts industry in the society of digital media rapidly changing. In order for performing arts contents to become competitive within the cultural flow of the virtual digital world called the metaverse, it will be needed to realize advanced media technology and also create contents based on the essence and artistic value of performing arts.
A Study on the Actual Condition and Improvement of Public Language in Universities from the viewpoint of International Students
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Kang Soyeong
Published: November 2022

This study is to analyze the use of public language in universities from the perspective of foreign students and to seek improvement measures for efficient communication. To this end, the concept and analysis standards of public language were re-established within the university, and the status of public language use in terms of accuracy and communication was analyzed according to the analysis criteria. Data collection was conducted through the website of K University in Gwangju, and as a result of the analysis, there were many errors in the order of spacing, spelling, grammar, and foreign word notation at the level of language regulation. It can be seen that there is a relatively lack of understanding among university members. In the area of communication, there were many parts that were difficult to understand information or grasp the meaning because the level of vocabulary was not considered, and it was found that it would be very difficult to understand the public language. Through the results of the study, if members recognize the importance of public language in universities in the future and make efforts to improve it, the difficulties of foreign students can be solved to some extent.
Enerji Kritik Alt Yapılarının Güvenliği İçin Bir Sanal Gerçeklik Eğitim Uygulaması Önerisi
Authors: Ayar Kayhan , Çit Gülüzar , Balta Musa
Published: November 2022

Kritik Altyapılar Ulusal Test Yatağı Merkezi (CENTER) Enerji, eğitim, güvenlik araştırmaları, ulusal/uluslararası saldırı ve savunma çözümleri gibi konuları amaçlayan elektrik güç şebekesi için güvenli bir test yatağı altyapısıdır. Siber güvenlik alanında çalışacak yeni adaylara veya laboratuvarda eğitim alacak lisans/lisansüstü seviyesindeki öğrencilere geliştirilen test yatağında yer alan cihazların tanıtılması, kullanımı, olası sistemsel arıza ve siber saldırı senaryoların uygulanması gibi konularda eğitim verilmektedir. Bu çalışmada, CENTER Enerji’nin bir sanal gerçeklik uygulaması ile simüle edilmesini öneren bir tasarı sunulmaktadır. Böylece, çalışma ekibine katılacak olan yeni araştırmacıların ve laboratuvara eğitim amaçlı olarak alınacak öğrencilerin adı geçen eğitim sürecinde eş-zamanlı ve laboratuvar ortamından bağımsız olarak sanal ortamda ön eğitimden geçirilerek adaptasyon sürecinin hızlandırılması amaçlanmaktadır.
Facial Limb Detection for the Protection of Face in Occupational Safety
Authors: Adak M. Fatih , Necmettin Nimetullah
Published: November 2022

A little carelessness may endanger life safety or loss of life may occur in heavy industry, factories and sectors where occupational safety is very important. In order to prevent or minimize them, it is necessary to take advantage of informatics facilities. Today, the fact that artificial intelligence and the internet of things have come to a very advanced position can provide life safety by developing autonomous systems and building modules that will give warnings, warning the employee working in these sectors in a wrong position immediately. In this study, a YOLO-based system was developed and a proposal was made that aims to protect human facial parts. Tests show that results can be obtained quickly and to prevent harm to life.
The role of long noncoding RNAs in therapeutic resistance in cervical cancer
Authors: Zhou Meimei , Liu Linlin , Wang Jing , Liu Wanru
Published: November 2022

Cervical cancer is one of the common tumors and often causes cancer-related death in women. Chemotherapy is a common cancer therapy, which displays a pivotal clinical benefit for cancer patients. However, chemoresistance becomes a big obstacle for failure of treatment in cancer patients. Recently, long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been identified to regulate drug resistance in human cancers, including cervical cancer. In this review, we describe the role of lncRNAs in regulation of chemotherapeutic resistance in cervical cancer. We also discuss the molecular mechanisms of lncRNA-mediated drug resistance in cervical cancer. Moreover, we describe that targeting lncRNAs could reverse drug resistance in cervical cancer. Therefore, lncRNAs could become effective therapeutic targets and chemotherapeutic sensitizers for cervical cancer patients.
Analysis of endometrial lavage microbiota reveals an increased relative abundance of the plastic-degrading bacteria Bacillus pseudofirmus and Stenotrophomonas rhizophila in women with endometrial cancer/endometrial hyperplasia
Authors: Chao Angel , Chao An-Shine , Lin Chiao-Yun , Weng Cindy Hsuan , Wu Ren-Chin , Yeh Yuan-Ming , Huang Shih-Sin , Lee Yun-Shien , Lai Chyong-Huey , Huang Huei-Jean , Tang Yun-Hsin , Lin Yu-Shan , Wang Chin-Jung , Wu Kai-Yun
Published: November 2022

The pathogenic influences of uterine bacteria on endometrial carcinogenesis remain unclear. The aim of this pilot study was to compare the microbiota composition of endometrial lavage samples obtained from women with either endometrial hyperplasia (EH) or endometrial cancer (EC) versus those with benign uterine conditions. We hypothesized that specific microbiota signatures would distinguish between the two groups, possibly leading to the identification of bacterial species associated with endometrial tumorigenesis. A total of 35 endometrial lavage specimens (EH, n = 18; EC, n = 7; metastatic EC, n = 2; benign endometrial lesions, n = 8) were collected from 32 women who had undergone office hysteroscopy. Microbiota composition was determined by sequencing the V3−V4 region of 16S rRNA genes and results were validated by real-time qPCR in 46 patients with EC/EH and 13 control women. Surprisingly, we found that Bacillus pseudofirmus and Stenotrophomonas rhizophila – two plastic-degrading bacterial species – were over-represented in endometrial lavage specimens collected from patients with EC/EH. Using computational analysis, we found that the functional profile of endometrial microbiota in EC/EH was associated with fatty acid and amino acid metabolism. In summary, our hypothesis-generating data indicate that the plastic-degrading bacteria Bacillus pseudofirmus and Stenotrophomonas rhizophila are over-represented within the endometrial lavage microbiota of women with EC/EH living in Taiwan. Whether this may be related to plastic pollution deserves further investigation.
The lncRNAs involved in regulating the RIG-I signaling pathway
Authors: Liu Jing , Ji Qinglu , Cheng Feng , Chen Dengwang , Geng Tingting , Huang Yueyue , Zhang Jidong , He Yuqi , Song Tao
Published: November 2022

Understanding the targets and interactions of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) related to the retinoic acid-inducible gene-I (RIG-I) signaling pathway is essential for developing interventions, which would enable directing the host inflammatory response regulation toward protective immunity. In the RIG-I signaling pathway, lncRNAs are involved in the important processes of ubiquitination, phosphorylation, and glycolysis, thus promoting the transport of the interferon regulatory factors 3 and 7 (IRF3 and IRF7) and the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) into the nucleus, and activating recruitment of type I interferons (IFN-I) and inflammatory factors to the antiviral action site. In addition, the RIG-I signaling pathway has recently been reported to contain the targets of coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19)-related lncRNAs. The molecules in the RIG-I signaling pathway are directly regulated by the lncRNA–microRNAs (miRNAs)–messenger RNA (mRNA) axis. Therefore, targeting this axis has become a novel strategy for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. In this paper, the studies on the regulation of the RIG-I signaling pathway by lncRNAs during viral infections and cancer are comprehensively analyzed. The aim is to provide a solid foundation of information for conducting further detailed studies on lncRNAs and RIG-I in the future and also contribute to clinical drug development.
Exogenous glycogen utilization effects the transcriptome and pathogenicity of Streptococcus suis serotype 2
Authors: Tan Mei-Fang , Tan Jia , Zhang Fan-Fan , Li Hai-Qin , Ji Hua-Yuan , Fang Shao-Pei , Wu Cheng-Cheng , Rao Yu-Ling , Zeng Yan-Bin , Yang Qun
Published: November 2022

Streptococcus suis serotype 2 (SS2) is an important zoonotic pathogen that causes severe infections in humans and the swine industry. Acquisition and utilization of available carbon sources from challenging host environments is necessary for bacterial pathogens to ensure growth and proliferation. Glycogen is abundant in mammalian body and may support the growth of SS2 during infection in hosts. However, limited information is known about the mechanism between the glycogen utilization and host adaptation of SS2. Here, the pleiotropic effects of exogenous glycogen on SS2 were investigated through transcriptome sequencing. Analysis of transcriptome data showed that the main basic metabolic pathways, especially the core carbon metabolism pathways and virulence-associated factors, of SS2 responded actively to glycogen induction. Glycogen induction led to the perturbation of the glycolysis pathway and citrate cycle, but promoted the pentose phosphate pathway and carbohydrate transport systems. Extracellular glycogen utilization also promoted the mixed-acid fermentation in SS2 rather than homolactic fermentation. Subsequently, apuA, a gene encoding the unique bifunctional amylopullulanase for glycogen degradation, was deleted from the wild type and generated the mutant strain ΔapuA. The pathogenicity details of the wild type and ΔapuA cultured in glucose and glycogen were investigated and compared. Results revealed that the capsule synthesis or bacterial morphology were not affected by glycogen incubation or apuA deletion. However, extracellular glycogen utilization significantly enhanced the hemolytic activity, adhesion and invasion ability, and lethality of SS2. The deletion of apuA also impaired the pathogenicity of bacteria cultured in glucose, indicating that ApuA is indeed an important virulence factor. Our results revealed that exogenous glycogen utilization extensively influenced the expression profile of the S. suis genome. Based on the transcriptome response, exogenous glycogen utilization promoted the carbon adaption and pathogenicity of SS2.
Bridging a sensory gap between deaf and hearing people–A plea for a situated design approach to sensory augmentation
Authors: Witter Michel , de Rooij Alwin , van Dartel Michel , Krahmer Emiel
Published: November 2022

Deaf and hearing people can encounter challenges when communicating with one another in everyday situations. Although problems in verbal communication are often seen as the main cause, such challenges may also result from sensory differences between deaf and hearing people and their impact on individual understandings of the world. That is, challenges arising from a sensory gap. Proposals for innovative communication technologies to address this have been met with criticism by the deaf community. They are mostly designed to enhance deaf people's understanding of the verbal cues that hearing people rely on, but omit many critical sensory signals that deaf people rely on to understand (others in) their environment and to which hearing people are not tuned to. In this perspective paper, sensory augmentation, i.e., technologically extending people's sensory capabilities, is put forward as a way to bridge this sensory gap: (1) by tuning to the signals deaf people rely on more strongly but are commonly missed by hearing people, and vice versa, and (2) by sensory augmentations that enable deaf and hearing people to sense signals that neither person is able to normally sense. Usability and user-acceptance challenges, however, lie ahead of realizing the alleged potential of sensory augmentation for bridging the sensory gap between deaf and hearing people. Addressing these requires a novel approach to how such technologies are designed. We contend this requires a situated design approach.
Association between serum Klotho levels and the prevalence of diabetes among adults in the United States
Authors: Wang Kai , Mao Yukang , Lu Miao , Liu Xianling , Sun Yan , Li Zhongming , Li Yansong , Ding Yinzhang , Zhang Jing , Hong Jian , Xu Di
Published: November 2022

Background

Diabetes is a critical contributor to the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. Klotho is an anti−aging protein with cardiovascular-renal protective effects. However, the relationship between serum Klotho levels and diabetes remains poorly understood.

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between serum Klotho levels and diabetes in US adults.

Methods

We analyzed the cross-sectional data obtained from 13751 subjects aged 40-79 years in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) (2007–2016). Serum Klotho concentration was measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and categorized into four quartiles (Q1-Q4). Multivariate logistic regression and restricted cubic spline (RCS) regression were conducted to explore the association between serum Klotho levels and the prevalence of diabetes.

Results

As compared with quartile 1, serum Klotho levels in quartiles 2-4 yielded odds ratios (OR) (95% CI) of diabetes of 0.96 (0.80–1.15), 0.98 (0.82–1.18), and 1.25 (1.04–1.50), respectively, after covariate adjustment (P for trend = 0.018). The results implied an increased risk of diabetes. The RCS plot showed a U-shaped relationship linking serum Klotho levels with diabetes (P for nonlinearity = 0.003).

Conclusions

In summary, a nonlinear and positive association was found between serum Klotho levels and the prevalence of diabetes. Further study is needed to verify the causality of this association and elucidate the underlying mechanisms.
The transcriptome pattern of liver, spleen and hypothalamus provides insights into genetic and biological changes in roosters in response to castration
Authors: Li Wenpeng , Li Hui , Yan Chao , Chen Siyu , Zhao Xingbo
Published: November 2022

Chicken is widely accepted by consumers because of its delicate taste and abundant animal protein. The rooster after castration (capon) is believed to show better flavor, however, the molecular changes of the underpinned metabolism after castration is not yet understood. In this study, we aimed to figure out the alternation of meat quality and underpinned molecular mechanismviatranscriptomic profiling of liver, spleen and hypothalamus as targeted organs in response to the castration. We identified differential expressed genes and their enriched functions and pathways in these organs between capon and rooster samples through RNA-seq analysis. In the liver, the lipid metabolism with targetedFABP1gene was found significantly enriched, which may be as one of the factors contributing to increased fat deposition and thus better meat flavor in capons than roosters, as predicted by the significantly lower shear force in capons than in roosters in meat quality experiments. However, the ability to xenobiotic detoxification and excretion, vitamin metabolism, and antioxidative effect of hemoglobin evidenced of the capon may be compromised by the alternation ofSULT,AOX1,CYP3A5,HBA1,HBBA, andHBAD. Besides, in both the spleen and hypothalamus,PTAFR,HPX,CTLA4,LAG3,ANPEP,CD24,ITGA2B,ITGB3,CD2,CD7, andBLB2may play an important role in the immune system including function of platelet and T cell, development of monocyte/macrophage and B cell in capons as compared to roosters. In conclusion, our study sheds lights into the possible molecular mechanism of better meat flavor, fatty deposit, oxidative detoxification and immune response difference between capons and roosters.
Genomic analysis and biochemical profiling of an unaxenic strain of Synechococcus sp. isolated from the Peruvian Amazon Basin region
Authors: Cobos Marianela , Condori Ruth C. , Grandez Miguel A. , Estela Segundo L. , Del Aguila Marjorie T. , Castro Carlos G. , Rodríguez Hicler N. , Vargas Jhon A. , Tresierra Alvaro B. , Barriga Luis A. , Marapara Jorge L. , Adrianzén Pedro M. , Ruiz Roger , Castro Juan C.
Published: November 2022

Cyanobacteria are diverse photosynthetic microorganisms able to produce a myriad of bioactive chemicals. To make possible the rational exploitation of these microorganisms, it is fundamental to know their metabolic capabilities and to have genomic resources. In this context, the main objective of this research was to determine the genome features and the biochemical profile of Synechococcus sp. UCP002. The cyanobacterium was isolated from the Peruvian Amazon Basin region and cultured in BG-11 medium. Growth parameters, genome features, and the biochemical profile of the cyanobacterium were determined using standardized methods. Synechococcus sp. UCP002 had a specific growth rate of 0.086 ± 0.008 μ and a doubling time of 8.08 ± 0.78 h. The complete genome of Synechococcus sp. UCP002 had a size of ∼3.53 Mb with a high coverage (∼200x), and its quality parameters were acceptable (completeness = 99.29%, complete and single-copy genes = 97.5%, and contamination = 0.35%). Additionally, the cyanobacterium had six plasmids ranging from 24 to 200 kbp. The annotated genome revealed ∼3,422 genes, ∼ 3,374 protein-coding genes (with ∼41.31% hypothetical protein-coding genes), two CRISPR Cas systems, and 61 non-coding RNAs. Both the genome and plasmids had the genes for prokaryotic defense systems. Additionally, the genome had genes coding the transcription factors of the metalloregulator ArsR/SmtB family, involved in sensing heavy metal pollution. The biochemical profile showed primary nutrients, essential amino acids, some essential fatty acids, pigments (e.g., all-trans-β-carotene, chlorophyll a, and phycocyanin), and phenolic compounds. In conclusion, Synechococcus sp. UCP002 shows biotechnological potential to produce human and animal nutrients and raw materials for biofuels and could be a new source of genes for synthetic biological applications.
ZC3H11A loss of function enhances NF-κB signaling through defective IκBα protein expression
Authors: Darweesh Mahmoud , Younis Shady , Hajikhezri Zamaneh , Ali Arwa , Jin Chuan , Punga Tanel , Gupta Soham , Essand Magnus , Andersson Leif , Akusjärvi Göran
Published: November 2022

ZC3H11A is a cellular protein associated with the transcription export (TREX) complex that is induced during heat-shock. Several nuclear-replicating viruses exploit the mRNA export mechanism of ZC3H11A protein for their efficient replication. Here we show that ZC3H11A protein plays a role in regulation of NF-κB signal transduction. Depletion of ZC3H11A resulted in enhanced NF-κB mediated signaling, with upregulation of numerous innate immune related mRNAs, including IL-6 and a large group of interferon-stimulated genes. IL-6 upregulation in the absence of the ZC3H11A protein correlated with an increased NF-κB transcription factor binding to the IL-6 promoter and decreased IL-6 mRNA decay. The enhanced NF-κB signaling pathway in ZC3H11A deficient cells correlated with a defect in IκBα inhibitory mRNA and protein accumulation. Upon ZC3H11A depletion The IκBα mRNA was retained in the cell nucleus resulting in failure to maintain normal levels of the cytoplasmic IκBα mRNA and protein that is essential for its inhibitory feedback loop on NF-κB activity. These findings indicate towards a previously unknown mechanism of ZC3H11A in regulating the NF-κB pathway at the level of IkBα mRNA export.
The long multi-epitope peptide vaccine combined with adjuvants improved the therapeutic effects in a glioblastoma mouse model
Authors: Tran Thi-Anh-Thuy , Kim Young-Hee , Kim Ga-Eun , Jung Shin , Kim In-Young , Moon Kyung-Sub , Kim Young-Jin , Lee Tae-Kyu , Yun Hyosuk , Lee Je-Jung , Lee Hyun-Ju , Lee Chul Won , Jung Tae-Young
Published: November 2022

Emerging data have suggested that single short peptides have limited success as a cancer vaccine; however, extending the short peptides into longer multi-epitope peptides overcame the immune tolerance and induced an immune response. Moreover, the combination of adjuvants such as lenalidomide and anti-programmed cell death protein 1 (PD1) with a peptide vaccine showed potential vaccine effects in previous studies. Therefore, the effects of a long multi-epitope peptide vaccine in combination with lenalidomide and anti-PD1 were analyzed in this study. Long multi-epitope peptides from two MHCI peptides (BIRC597-104and EphA2682-689) and the pan-human leukocyte antigen-DR isotype (HLA-DR) binding epitope (PADRE) were synthesized. The therapeutic effects of long multi-epitope peptides in combination with lenalidomide and anti-PD1 were confirmed in the murine GL261 intracranial glioma model. Immune cells’ distribution and responses to the long multi-epitope peptides in combination with these adjuvants were also estimated in the spleens, lymph nodes, and tumor tissues. The difference between long multi-epitope peptides and a cocktail of multi-epitope peptides combined with lenalidomide and anti-PD1 was also clarified. As a result, long multi-epitope peptides combined with lenalidomide and anti-PD1 prolonged the survival of mice according to the suppression of tumor growth in an intracranial mouse model. While long multi-epitope peptides combined with these adjuvants enhanced the percentages of activated and memory effector CD8+T cells, the increase in percentages of regulatory T cells (Tregs) was observed in a cocktail of multi-epitope peptides combined with lenalidomide and anti-PD1 group in the tumors. Long multi-epitope peptides combined with these adjuvants also enhanced the function of immune cells according to the enhanced pro-inflammatory cytokines and cytotoxicity against GL261 cells inex vivo. In conclusion, long multi-epitope peptides composed of MHCI peptides, BIRC5 and EphA2, and the MHCII peptide, PADRE, in combination with lenalidomide and anti-PD1 has the potential to improve the therapeutic effects of a vaccine against GBM.
Designing a multi-epitope vaccine against coxsackievirus B based on immunoinformatics approaches
Authors: Huang Sichao , Zhang Congcong , Li Jianing , Dai Zongmao , Huang Jingjing , Deng Fengzhen , Wang Xumeng , Yue Xinxin , Hu Xinnan , Li Yuxuan , Deng Yushu , Wang Yanhang , Zhao Wenran , Zhong Zhaohua , Wang Yan
Published: November 2022

Coxsackievirus B (CVB) is one of the major viral pathogens of human myocarditis and cardiomyopathy without any effective preventive measures; therefore, it is necessary to develop a safe and efficacious vaccine against CVB. Immunoinformatics methods are both economical and convenient as in-silico simulations can shorten the development time. Herein, we design a novel multi-epitope vaccine for the prevention of CVB by using immunoinformatics methods. With the help of advanced immunoinformatics approaches, we predicted different B-cell, cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL), and helper T lymphocyte (HTL) epitopes, respectively. Subsequently, we constructed the multi-epitope vaccine by fusing all conserved epitopes with appropriate linkers and adjuvants. The final vaccine was found to be antigenic, non-allergenic, and stable. The 3D structure of the vaccine was then predicted, refined, and evaluated. Molecular docking and dynamics simulation were performed to reveal the interactions between the vaccine with the immune receptors MHC-I, MHC-II, TLR3, and TLR4. Finally, to ensure the complete expression of the vaccine protein, the sequence of the designed vaccine was optimized and further performed in-silico cloning. In conclusion, the molecule designed in this study could be considered a potential vaccine against CVB infection and needed further experiments to evaluate its safety and efficacy.
The novel oligopeptide utilizing species Anaeropeptidivorans aminofermentans M3/9T, its role in anaerobic digestion and occurrence as deduced from large-scale fragment recruitment analyses
Authors: Maus Irena , Wibberg Daniel , Belmann Peter , Hahnke Sarah , Huang Liren , Spröer Cathrin , Bunk Boyke , Blom Jochen , Sczyrba Alexander , Pühler Alfred , Klocke Michael , Schlüter Andreas
Published: November 2022

Research on biogas-producing microbial communities aims at elucidation of correlations and dependencies between the anaerobic digestion (AD) process and the corresponding microbiome composition in order to optimize the performance of the process and the biogas output. Previously,Lachnospiraceaespecies were frequently detected in mesophilic to moderately thermophilic biogas reactors. To analyze adaptive genome features of a representativeLachnospiraceaestrain,Anaeropeptidivorans aminofermentansM3/9Twas isolated from a mesophilic laboratory-scale biogas plant and its genome was sequenced and analyzed in detail. Strain M3/9Tpossesses a number of genes encoding enzymes for degradation of proteins, oligo- and dipeptides. Moreover, genes encoding enzymes participating in fermentation of amino acids released from peptide hydrolysis were also identified. Based on further findings obtained from metabolic pathway reconstruction, M3/9Twas predicted to participate in acidogenesis within the AD process. To understand the genomic diversity between the biogas isolate M3/9Tand closely relatedAnaerotignumtype strains, genome sequence comparisons were performed. M3/9Tharbors 1,693 strain-specific genes among others encoding different peptidases, a phosphotransferase system (PTS) for sugar uptake, but also proteins involved in extracellular solute binding and import, sporulation and flagellar biosynthesis. In order to determine the occurrence of M3/9Tin other environments, large-scale fragment recruitments with the M3/9Tgenome as a template and publicly available metagenomes representing different environments was performed. The strain was detected in the intestine of mammals, being most abundant in goat feces, occasionally used as a substrate for biogas production.
Soil microbial abundance was more affected by soil depth than the altitude in peatlands
Authors: Zhao Meiling , Wang Ming , Zhao Yantong , Hu Nanlin , Qin Lei , Ren Zhibin , Wang Guodong , Jiang Ming
Published: November 2022

Soil microbial abundance is a key factor to predict soil organic carbon dynamics in peatlands. However, little is known about the effects of altitude and soil depth and their interaction on soil microbial abundance in peatlands. In this study, we measured the microbial abundance and soil physicochemical properties at different soil depths (0–30 cm) in peatlands along an altitudinal gradient (from 200 to 1,500 m) on Changbai Mountain, China. The effect of soil depth on soil microbial abundance was stronger than the altitude. The total microbial abundance and different microbial groups showed the same trend along the soil depth and altitudinal gradients, respectively. Microbial abundance in soil layer of 5–10 cm was the highest and then decreased with soil depth; microbial abundance at the altitude of 500–800 m was the highest. Abiotic and biotic factors together drove the change in microbial abundance. Physical variables (soil water content and pH) and microbial co-occurrence network had negative effects on microbial abundance, and nutrient variables (total nitrogen and total phosphorus) had positive effects on microbial abundance. Our results demonstrated that soil depth had more effects on peatland microbial abundance than altitude. Soil environmental change with peat depth may lead to the microorganisms receiving more disturbances in future climate change.
Oculomotor impairments in de novo Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Zhou Meng-Xi , Wang Qin , Lin Yin , Xu Qian , Wu Li , Chen Ya-Jing , Jiang Yu-Han , He Qing , Zhao Lei , Dong You-Rong , Liu Jian-Ren , Chen Wei
Published: November 2022

Objective

Reliable electrophysiological indicators are urgently needed in the precise evaluation of Parkinson’s disease (PD). It is still elusive whether oculomotor performance is impaired or has clinical value in early PD. This study aims to explore oculomotor performance in newly diagnosed, drug-naïve PD and its correlation with clinical phenotype.

Methods

Seventy-five patients with de novo PD, 75 patients with essential tremor (ET), and 46 gender-and age-matched healthy controls (HCs) were included in this cross-sectional study. All subjects underwent oculomotor test via videonystagmography. Visually guided saccade latency, saccadic accuracy and gain in smooth pursuit eye movement (SPEM) at three frequencies of the horizontal axis were compared among the three groups. Patients with PD also received detailed motor and non-motor evaluation by serial scales. The association between key oculomotor parameters and clinical phenotypes were explored in PD patients.

Results

Both de novo PD and ET patients showed prolonged saccadic latency and decreased saccadic accuracy relative to HCs. SPEM gain in PD was uniformly reduced at each frequency. SPEM gain at 0.4 Hz was also decreased in ET compared with HCs. However, there was no significant difference of oculomotor parameters between de novo PD and ET patients. Furthermore, prolonged saccadic latency was correlated with long disease duration, whereas decreased SPEM gain was associated with severe motor symptoms in de novo PD patients.

Conclusion

Ocular movements are impaired in de novo, drug naïve PD patients; these changes could be indicators for disease progression in PD.
The large numbers of minicolumns in the primary visual cortex of humans, chimpanzees and gorillas are related to high visual acuity
Authors: Wallace Mark N. , Zobay Oliver , Hardman Eden , Thompson Zoe , Dobbs Phillipa , Chakrabarti Lisa , Palmer Alan R.
Published: November 2022

Minicolumns are thought to be a fundamental neural unit in the neocortex and their replication may have formed the basis of the rapid cortical expansion that occurred during primate evolution. We sought evidence of minicolumns in the primary visual cortex (V-1) of three great apes, three rodents and representatives from three other mammalian orders: Eulipotyphla (European hedgehog), Artiodactyla (domestic pig) and Carnivora (ferret). Minicolumns, identified by the presence of a long bundle of radial, myelinated fibers stretching from layer III to the white matter of silver-stained sections, were found in the human, chimpanzee, gorilla and guinea pig V-1. Shorter bundles confined to one or two layers were found in the other species but represent modules rather than minicolumns. The inter-bundle distance, and hence density of minicolumns, varied systematically both within a local area that might represent a hypercolumn but also across the whole visual field. The distance between all bundles had a similar range for human, chimpanzee, gorilla, ferret and guinea pig: most bundles were 20–45 μm apart. By contrast, the space between bundles was greater for the hedgehog and pig (20–140 μm). The mean density of minicolumns was greater in tangential sections of the gorilla and chimpanzee (1,243–1,287 bundles/mm2) than in human (314–422 bundles/mm2) or guinea pig (643 bundles/mm2). The minicolumnar bundles did not form a hexagonal lattice but were arranged in thin curving and branched bands separated by thicker bands of neuropil/somata. Estimates of the total number of modules/minicolumns within V-1 were strongly correlated with visual acuity.
The implications of alcohol mixed with energy drinks from medical and socio-legal standpoints
Authors: Sefen Jessica Atef Nassef , Patil Jayaditya Devpal , Cooper Helen
Published: November 2022

Co-ingestion of energy drinks and alcohol has long been in practice and has been poorly regulated despite a growing body of literature of their potential negative health impacts. Co-ingestion of energy drinks with alcohol has multiple counter-active effects such as reduction of body sway, fatigue and sedative effects induced by alcohol, along with increased subjective feeling of alertness, which may lead to increased binge-drinking, intoxication, decreased perception of intoxication, dehydration, and alcohol poisoning. Adding energy drinks to alcohol may also have synergistic effects in causing alcohol dependency and addiction. The association between caffeine, a common active ingredient in energy drinks, and alcohol is relatively well defined, however association with other active ingredients such as taurine, niacin, and pyridoxine, is less understood, pointing to a gap in our knowledge regarding this practice. Nonetheless, the current associations between AMED (Alcohol Mixed with Energy Drinks) and risky behavior secondary to intoxication and cases of alcohol poisoning have led various national governing bodies to regulate this practice. This review highlights the potential effects of AMED on human physiology based on what is known from human and animal models, and sheds light on specific biochemical interactions between alcohol and active ingredients found in energy drinks; Caffeine, Taurine, and Glucuronolactone. The review also touches on the regulation of this practice around the world, and the impact it has on its users, and points researchers to gaps in our knowledge on the interactions between alcohol and EDs and the full extent of their effects.