bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Castor Oil in Bowel Preparation Regimens for Colon Capsule Endoscopy: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis
Authors: Deding Ulrik , Jensen Sofie Sajan , Schelde-Olesen Benedicte , Kaalby Lasse , Bjørsum-Meyer Thomas , Koulaouzidis Anastasios
Published: November 2022

Completing colon capsule endoscopy (CCE) investigations rely on successful transit and acceptable bowel preparation quality. We investigated the effect of adding castor oil to the CCE bowel preparation regimen on the completion rate using a meta-analysis of existing literature. We conducted a systematic literature search in PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase. Included studies underwent quality assessment, and data for meta-analysis were extracted. Pooled estimates for excretion rate and acceptable bowel preparation rate were calculated. We identified 72 studies matching our search criteria, and six were included in the meta-analysis. Three of the studies had control groups, although two used historical cohorts. The pooled excretion rate (92%) was significantly higher in patients who received castor oil than in those who did not (73%). No significant difference in acceptable colonic cleanliness was observed. Castor oil has been used in a few studies as a booster for CCE. This meta-analysis shows the potential for this medication to improve excretion rates, and castor oil could be actively considered in conjunction with other emerging laxative regimens in CCE. Still, prospective randomized trials with appropriate control groups should be conducted before any conclusions can be drawn. Prospero ID: CRD42022338939.
Circuit Modelling of Broadband Antenna Using Vector Fitting and Foster Form Approaches for IoT Applications
Authors: Ez-zaki Fatima , Belaid Khaoula Ait , Ahmad Sarosh , Belahrach Hassan , Ghammaz Abdelilah , Al-Gburi Ahmed Jamal Abdullah , Parchin Naser Ojaroudi
Published: November 2022

Computation of the broadband antenna impedance behavior requires the wideband lumped equivalent circuit. This work aims to provide a comprehensive study of broadband antenna equivalent circuit models over broad frequency ranges for Internet of Things (IoT) applications using multiple approaches. The first approach is a Foster approximation, which is based on the antenna-simulated scattering parameters and impedance data. The second concerns a vector-fitting fitting approximation, which is based on the antenna-simulated impedance/admittance data. The studied antenna is modeled based on the radiating element’s geometry and the multifractal slots, in addition to the DGS (Defected Ground Plane) effects. Applying these techniques, wideband lumped equivalent circuits of the antenna have been computed which are in good agreement with measurement data. These models could be useful for the enhancement of the performance of a broadband antenna and its systematic design as well as offering the advantage of saving computation time for full-wave simulations and facilitating the solution of problems that have both an electromagnetic part as well as a circuit part. For further analysis, the Gaussian pulse has been generated to drive a time-domain analysis of the current and power response waveforms antenna behavior under load.
Null-Space-Based Multi-Player Pursuit-Evasion Games Using Minimum and Maximum Approximation Functions
Authors: Guo Xinxin , Guo An , Zhao Suping
Published: November 2022

In this article, pursuit and evasion policies are developed for multi-player pursuit–evasion games, while obstacle avoidance and velocity constraints are considered simultaneously. As minimum and maximum approximation functions are both differentiable, pursuit and evasion objectives can be transformed into solving the corresponding differential expressions. For obstacle avoidance, a modified null-space-based approach is designed, which can ensure that all pursuers and evaders of pursuit–evasions are safe to minimize pursuit objective and maximize evasion objective, respectively. Rigorous theoretical analyses are provided to design constrained pursuit and evasion policies with obstacle avoidance. Finally, the performance of proposed policies is demonstrated by simulation results in 3-dimensional space.
Metaverse for Cultural Heritages
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Yang Deling , Yow Cheun Hoe , Huang Lihui , Wu Xiaoqun , Huang Xijun , Guo Jia , Zhou Shujun , Cai Yiyu
Published: November 2022

The metaverse has gained popularity recently in many areas including social media, healthcare, education and manufacturing. This work explores the use of the metaverse concept for cultural heritage applications. The motivation is to develop a systematic approach for the construction of a cultural heritage metaverse and to offer, potentially, more effective solutions for tourism guidance, site maintenance, heritage object conservation, etc. We propose a framework for this cultural heritage metaverse with an emphasis on fundamental elements and on characterization of the mapping between the physical and virtual cultural heritage worlds. Efforts are made to analyze the dimensional structures of the cultural heritage metaverse. Specifically, five different dimensions, linearity, planarity, space, time and context, are discussed to better understand this metaverse. The proposed framework and methodology are novel and can be applied to the digitalization of cultural heritage via its metaverse development. This is followed by a detailed case study to illustrate the tangible procedure, constructing a cultural heritage metaverse with a complex and dynamic nature which can be used for different applications, including heritage conservation.
Measurement of Forest Carbon Sink Efficiency and Its Influencing Factors Empirical Evidence from China
Authors: Wang Jinfang , Shi Kehan , Hu Mingxing
Published: November 2022

The efficiency and productivity improvement are the core requirements of high-quality development, while improving the efficiency of forest carbon sinks is an important means and fundamental way to achieve their high-quality development. Based on the forests and socioeconomic development data of 31 provinces (cities and districts) in China from 2004 to 2018, the biomass method and DEA-Tobit panel regression model were used to analyze the level of forest carbon stock, carbon sink and carbon sink efficiency, and factors influencing forest carbon sink efficiency in China’s provinces. The results indicated that: ① nationwide forest carbon stocks and carbon sinks increased successively while carbon density decreased. The regions with higher carbon stock, carbon sink, and carbon density were concentrated in the northeast and southwest forest areas with abundant forest resources. ② During the 7th to 9th forest inventory, the efficiency of forest carbon sinks was on a low and decreasing trend. The mean values of comprehensive efficiency in general for the 7th to 9th forest inventory periods were 0.421 and 0.336, respectively. The scale efficiency in the decomposition efficiency was above 0.650 for both inventory periods, and gradually increased, showing that the gap between the actual scale and the optimal production scale of forestry carbon sink was decreasing. The pure technical efficiency level represented the production efficiency of input factors at the optimal scale of forestry carbon sinks. The mean values of the two periods are 0.639 and 0.514, respectively, while the differences within the production frontier surface are 0.361 and 0.486, which indicates that there is input redundancy or output deficiency in the two periods as a whole. ③ The total annual precipitation and the level of socioeconomic development have significant driving effects on the improvement of forest carbon sink efficiency, while the incidence of pests and diseases, abnormal changes in temperature, afforestation area and the development of population urbanization have significant inhibiting effects on the improvement of forest carbon sink efficiency in China.
Development of Ready-to-Eat Organic Protein Snack Bars: Assessment of Selected Changes of Physicochemical Quality Parameters and Antioxidant Activity Changes during Storage
Authors: Szydłowska Aleksandra , Zielińska Dorota , Trząskowska Monika , Neffe-Skocińska Katarzyna , Łepecka Anna , Okoń Anna , Kołożyn-Krajewska Danuta
Published: November 2022

Novel organic high-protein bars (HPB) were developed and produced from organic ingredients such as prebiotic and pro-healthy additives or whey protein concentrate (WPC-80). The influence of temperature and time on the selected physicochemical parameters and antioxidant activity of three formulations of HPBs when stored (at 4 °C and 22 °C for 3 months) was investigated. The fresh products varied on the basis of available carbohydrates, crude lipids, amino acid profile, and fatty acid profile resulting from the used formulations. A total of 17 amino acids (AA), including 10 essential amino acids (EAA), were identified in HPBs. The concentrations of all essential amino acids determined by EAA scores (AAS), except Histidine (His), were higher than the FAO/WHO/UNU (2007) pattern; for the WPC-80 however, in the case of the developed HPB, the scores were lower (0.21–0.48). The first limiting amino acid in HPB was Val (Valine). The temperature and time of storage significantly affected the proximate chemical composition and an assessment of the products’ antioxidant activity. The amino acid and fatty acid composition of stored products slightly changed. However, stored HPBs had a low content of trans fatty acids (TFAs). The optimal method of storage for the investigated bars was at the temperature of 4 °C for 3 months.
Impact of Green Extraction on Curcuminoid Content, Antioxidant Activities and Anti-Cancer Efficiency (In Vitro) from Turmeric Rhizomes (Curcuma longa L.)
Authors: Singh Kanjana , Srichairatanakool Somdet , Chewonarin Teera , Prommaban Adchara , Samakradhamrongthai Rajnibhas Sukeaw , Brennan Margaret Anne , Brennan Charles Stephen , Utama-ang Niramon
Published: November 2022

Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) powder is widely used as a spice and seasoning in Asian countries. This study investigated the effect of turmeric extracts on the anticancer activity of Huh7 and HCT 116 cells. The curcumin bioactive compounds were extracted using various methods such as microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) and traditional extraction (TDE). The yield of dried extracts from MAE was found to be the highest at 17.89%, followed by UAE and TDE, with 11.34% and 5.54%, respectively. Antioxidant activities such as TPC, DPPH and FRAP from MAE were higher than those of UAE and TDE. The total curcuminoid contents from the novel extractions were higher than those from traditional extraction methods. For instance, curcuminoid contents from MAE, UAE and TDE were 326.79, 241.17 and 215.83 mg/g, respectively. Due to having the highest bioactive compounds and extraction yield, turmeric extract from MAE was used to investigate the potential anticancer properties. The extract showed significant cytotoxic potential against the human liver (Huh7) and human colon (HCT116) cell lines, in concentrations ranging from 31.25 to 1000.00 µg/mL. Turmeric extracts using MAE have potential anticancer effects on Huh7 and HCT116 cells. This study serves as scientific data for the chemotherapeutic properties of turmeric extracts and their use as functional ingredients.
Purification of Camellia Oil by Inorganic Ceramic Membrane
Authors: Cao Danyu , Gai Lili , Niu Debao , Li Yarong , Li Jianbin , Tian Run , Li Kai
Published: November 2022

Camellia oil is an edible health oil with high medicinal value. While phospholipids, peroxides, and free fatty acids are present in unrefined camellia virgin oil (CVO), which has a negative impact on the quality characteristics and storage stability. This paper is to investigate the testing effects of transmembrane pressure and temperature on the membrane flux and degumming (the removal of colloidal substances from crude oil and which is mainly phospholipids) to determine the optimum process parameters for the purification of CVO. On this basis, the effects of purification treatments applied by using a membrane system with membranes of different pore sizes (200, 140, 20, 15, and 10 nm) on CVO were tested. The results indicate that the purification treatments of ceramic membrane on CVO reduced the contents of phospholipids (87.0% reduction), peroxides (29.2% reduction), and free fatty acids (16.2% reduction) at a transmembrane pressure of 0.4 MPa and temperature of 60 °C. At the same time, these treatments did not significantly alter the fatty acid composition. Thus, ceramic membranes have the potential for the purification of camellia oil, which could be an effective way to achieve the purification of camellia oil.
On the Basic Theory of Some Generalized and Fractional Derivatives
Authors: Gholizadeh Zivlaei Leila , Mingarelli Angelo B.
Published: November 2022

We continue the development of the basic theory of generalized derivatives as introduced and give some of their applications. In particular, we formulate necessary conditions for extrema, Rolle’s theorem, the mean value theorem, the fundamental theorem of calculus, integration by parts, along with an existence and uniqueness theorem for a generalized Riccati equation, each of which provides simple proofs of the corresponding version for the so-called conformable fractional derivatives considered by many. Finally, we show that for each α>1 there is a fractional derivative and a corresponding function whose fractional derivative fails to exist everywhere on the real line.
Deflagration-to-Detonation Transition in Stochiometric Propane–Hydrogen–Air Mixtures
Authors: Shamshin Igor O. , Kazachenko Maxim V. , Frolov Sergey M. , Basevich Valentin Y.
Published: November 2022

Hydrocarbon–hydrogen blends are often considered as perspective environmentally friendly fuels for power plants, piston engines, heating appliances, home stoves, etc. However, the addition of hydrogen to a hydrocarbon fuel poses a potential risk of accidental explosion due to the high reactivity of hydrogen. In this manuscript, the detonability of stoichiometric C3H8–H2–air mixtures is studied experimentally in terms of the run-up time and distance of deflagration to detonation transition (DDT). The hydrogen volume fraction in the mixtures varied from 0 to 1. Three different configurations of detonation tubes were used to ensure the DDT in the mixtures of the various compositions. The measured dependences of the DDT run-up time and distance on the hydrogen volume fraction were found to be nonlinear and, in some cases, nonmonotonic with local maxima. Blended fuel detonability is shown to increase sharply only at a relatively large hydrogen volume fraction (above 70%), i.e., the addition of hydrogen to propane in amounts less than 70% vol. does not affect the detonability of the blended fuel significantly. The observed nonlinear/nonmonotonic dependences are shown to be the manifestation of the physicochemical properties of hydrogen-containing mixtures. An increase in the hydrogen volume fraction is accompanied by effects leading to both an increase and a decrease in mixture sensitivity to the DDT. Thus, on the one hand, the increase in the hydrogen volume fraction increases the mixture sensitivity to DDT due to an increase in the laminar flame velocity and a decrease in the self-ignition delay at isotherms above 1000 K and pressures relevant to DDT. On the other hand, the mixture sensitivity to DDT decreases due to the increase in the speed of sound in the hydrogen-containing mixture, thus leading to a decrease in the Mach number of the lead shock wave propagating ahead of the flame, and to a corresponding increase in the self-ignition delay. Moreover, for C3H8–H2–air mixtures at isotherms below 1000 K and pressures relevant to DDT, the self-ignition delay increases with hydrogen volume fraction.
Potential of In Vitro Culture of Scutellaria baicalensis in the Formation of Genetic Variation Confirmed by ScoT Markers
Authors: Gawroński Jacek , Dyduch-Siemińska Magdalena
Published: November 2022

The in vitro culture technique can be used for micropropagation of medicinal plants as well as for creating genotypes with an improved profile of phytochemical compounds. For this purpose, somaclonal variability may be used for the induction of genetic diversity among regenerants. The paper presents a protocol for obtaining Scutellaria baicalensis regenerants by indirect organogenesis and the assessment of their genetic variability with the use of start codon-targeted markers. The most intense process of indirect shoot organogenesis was observed on Murashige and Skoog medium supplemented with kinetin and 6-Benzylaminopurine (0.5 mg × dm−3 each)—7.4 shoot per explant on average. The callogenesis process occurred on the medium supplemented with TDZ, while the medium supplemented with GA3 allowed for direct shoot organogenesis and was used for the micropropagation of regenerants. In the analysis of plantlets obtained by indirect organogenesis, 11 ScoT markers generated a total of 130 amplicons, 45 of which were polymorphic. This analysis showed genetic diversity of regenerants in relation to the donor plant as well as within them, with mean similarity among the analyzed genotypes at the level of 0.90. This study confirms that the use of in vitro cultures allows for the possibility to generate genetic variability in Scutellaria baicalensis, which can be effectively revealed with the use of the SCoT marker.
Congenital Heart Diseases: Genetic Risk Variants and Their Methylation Status
Authors: Calzada-Dávila Melissa , Calvo-Anguiano Geovana , Martínez-de-Villarreal Laura E. , Lugo-Trampe José J. , González-Peña Sandra M. , Ancer-Rodríguez Patricia R. , Hernández-Almaguer María D. , Campos-Acevedo Luis D.
Published: November 2022

(1) Background: The interaction between single nucleotide variants (SNVs) associated with congenital heart diseases (CHDs) and their gene methylation status has not been well researched. The aim of the present study was to determine if there is a relationship between the methy lation status (MS) of genes and the allelic variants associated with CHDs. (2) Methods: Seven SNVs of the genes AXIN1, TBX1, TBX20, and MTHFR were selected from the literature. DNA extraction, genotyping, and a methylation analysis were performed on healthy subjects and subjects with CHDs. (3) Results: Twenty-two subjects with CHDs were selected as the case group (15 with ventricular septal defects (VSDs) and 7 with atrial septal defects (ASDs)), and 44 healthy subjects comprised the control group. The MTHFR and AXIN1 genes were hypermethylated in the control group when compared to the case group. When analyzed separately, those with atrial septum defects exhibited greater methylation, except for the gene MTHFR where there were no differences. Only the alternate alleles of MTHFR showed a significantly different methylation status in those without cardiopathy. (4) Conclusions: The MTHFR and AXIN genes were hypermethylated in the control group; however, only the alternate alleles of MTHFR (rs1801133 and rs1801131) showed a significantly different methylation status.
Comparative Analysis of the Chloroplast Genome of Cardamine hupingshanensis and Phylogenetic Study of Cardamine
Authors: Huang Sunan , Kang Zujie , Chen Zhenfa , Deng Yunfei
Published: November 2022

Cardamine hupingshanensis (K. M. Liu, L. B. Chen, H. F. Bai and L. H. Liu) is a perennial herbal species endemic to China with narrow distribution. It is known as an important plant for investigating the metabolism of selenium in plants because of its ability to accumulate selenium. However, the phylogenetic position of this particular species in Cardamine remains unclear. In this study, we reported the chloroplast genome (cp genome) for the species C. hupingshanensis and analyzed its position within Cardamine. The cp genome of C. hupingshanensis is 155,226 bp in length and exhibits a typical quadripartite structure: one large single copy region (LSC, 84,287 bp), one small single copy region (17,943 bp) and a pair of inverted repeat regions (IRs, 26,498 bp). Guanine-Cytosine (GC) content makes up 36.3% of the total content. The cp genome contains 111 unique genes, including 78 protein-coding genes, 29 tRNA genes and 4 rRNA genes. A total of 115 simple sequences repeats (SSRs) and 49 long repeats were identified in the genome. Comparative analyses among 17 Cardamine species identified the five most variable regions (trnH-GUG-psbA, ndhK-ndhC, trnW-CCA-trnP-UGG, rps11-rpl36 and rpl32-trnL-UAG), which could be used as molecular markers for the classification and phylogenetic analyses of various Cardamine species. Phylogenetic analyses based on 79 protein coding genes revealed that the species C. hupingshanensis is more closely related to the species C. circaeoides. This relationship is supported by their shared morphological characteristics.
Development of Aerobic Exercise Equipment Using Universal Design: Treadmill and Arm Ergometer
Authors: Yi Eunsurk , Byun Hyun , Oh Ahra
Published: November 2022

Exercise products based on universal design, which reduce restrictions on the exercise environment and ensure convenience and safe use, are beneficial for people with a disability; however, the current universal design only considers the preferences of the general population, which is not suitable for the disabled population. This results in the exclusivity of the sports facilities and supplies for people with a disability. Consequently, we explored the components of universal design and product satisfaction by considering users with disabilities and proposed the direction for designing extended universal exercise equipment that is suitable for them. Specifically, this study focuses on developing exercise equipment for people with a disability. Based on the results from the evaluation of acceptance and satisfaction of universal sports products for people with a disability using design thinking, we suggest the following. First, it is necessary to consider safety devices for exercise products. Second, the user interface should be improved in terms of convenience. Third, the ergonomic instrument design should be improved. Finally, the instrument design should be centered on user convenience.
Resilience in Stroke Patients: A Concept Analysis
Authors: Yan Huey-Yeu , Lin Hung-Ru
Published: November 2022

(1) Background: Resilience enables individuals to develop positive coping strategies when faced with adversity. However, knowledge on resilience in stroke patients remains limited, and resilience assessment methods continue to be debated. (2) Aim: To perform a concept analysis of resilience in stroke patients. (3) Methods: The Walker and Avant approach to concept analysis was adopted. Searches were performed in the PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE), and Chinese Electronic Periodical Services (CEPS) databases and grey literature using the keywords “stroke patient”, “resilience”, and “concept analysis”. (4) Results: The defining attributes of resilience in stroke patients were classified into internal personality traits and external environmental support. Antecedents included physical, mental, and familial and social impairments caused by the disease, and the consequences were good adaptation, which included active cooperation with rehabilitation activities, positive thinking, goal setting, and harboring hope for the future. (5) Conclusion: Resilience is of a diverse and complex nature. Optimism and positivity, problem-solving ability, and familial and social support may assist in re-adjusting or restoring the balance between physical and mental health when a stroke patient faces adversity. Key factors affecting resilience in stroke patients should be further investigated in future research to assist in the development of effective interventional treatment measures.
In Search of Differences in the Perception of Safety Climate by Employees of an International Manufacturing Company
Authors: Znajmiecka Marta , Roszko-Wójtowicz Elżbieta , Stasiła-Sieradzka Marta
Published: November 2022

The implementation of effective workforce safety programmes ought to be linked to an understanding of the specificity of the work in the organisation concerned, taking into consideration the assessment of the level of safety expressed by the professional group representing it at the executive level. The main purpose of the study presented in the paper, which is part of a broader project of researching safety culture in the organisation, is a diagnosis of the safety climate in the Polish branch of an international manufacturing company. The following research question was formulated: Is the examined international manufacturing company a homogeneous organisation from the point of view of assessing its safety culture? The research was exploratory. In total, 203 respondents, which amounts to 35% of the employees, participated in the study. The selection of the sample was representative—in proportion to the number of employees in individual departments and their positions in the examined organisation. The presented paper includes an analysis of the results obtained on the basis of the abbreviated version of the Safety Climate Questionnaire, a self-developed tool to assess ten separate dimensions of safety climate. The results of a single-factor analysis of variance (ANOVA) along with post hoc tests prove that there is a statistically significant difference between the respondents representing different positions in the organisation and different areas of employment. The position held in the company significantly differentiates the employees in a statistically significant way—in eight out of eleven diagnostic areas, including the Summary Safety Climate Indicator (SSCI). In the case of department, statistically significant differences were found in seven out of eleven diagnostic areas. Education proved to be the factor that differentiates the respondents the least in terms of the assessment of workplace safety climate. Statistically significant differences occurred only in three out of eleven diagnostic areas. The observed differences in the assessment of the dimensions of workplace safety climate point to the need for the promotion of more diversified and individualised measures, taking into account the specificity of work and the nature of hazards in a given position, and the creation of practical safety programmes not only in the procedural and technical dimensions but also in social and psychological ones.
Phytoplankton Community Structure Dynamics in Relation to Water Environmental Factors in Zhalong Wetland
Authors: Li Xiaoyu , Zhao Yuxi , Chai Fangying , Yu Hongxian , Sun Xu , Liu Di
Published: November 2022

Phytoplankton, as the primary producer of the wetland water ecosystem’s food chain, are very sensitive to environmental changes. In order to explore the significance of phytoplankton in protecting ecosystem integrity, the wetland ecosystem in Zhalong wetland, one of the most important international wetlands, was selected as the research area. For the study, 81 sampling sites were set up in the whole wetland, and phytoplankton samples and water quality environmental factors were measured in spring, summer, and autumn of 2019. The phytoplankton community structure and water environmental factors were evaluated by canonical correspondence analysis (CCA). The main research findings are as follows: a total of 292 species and variants of phytoplankton belonging to 8 phyla and 110 genera were identified within Zhalong wetland in spring, summer, and autumn 2019. The total phytoplankton abundance and biomass in summer were higher than in spring and autumn, and Cyclotella meneghiniana was the most dominant species in three seasons and three areas. The results of random forest are generally consistent with the results of CCA in spring, when the main environmental factors affecting phytoplankton were NTU and WT; the result in summer and autumn agreed with those of CCA, which awaits further study. In addition, the phytoplankton is mainly affected by WT, depth, and DO in the lake area, TP, DO, and NTU in the river area, and WT in the wetland area.
Exposure Assessment of Aflatoxin B1 through Consumption of Rice in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Alwan Nisreen , Bou Ghanem Haneen , Dimassi Hani , Karam Layal , Hassan Hussein F.
Published: November 2022

Rice is one of the most consumed staple foods worldwide and a major part of the diet for half of the global population. Being primarily cultivated in countries with warm and humid environments increases rice’s susceptibility for mycotoxins contamination, especially the hepatotoxic and carcinogenic aflatoxin B1 (AFB1). Since no study was published before on the exposure to AFB1 from consuming rice in the UAE, our study aims to assess the levels of AFB1 in rice marketed in the country and determine the estimated daily exposure of the population for this carcinogenic metabolite and its associated liver cancer risk. All white, brown, and parboiled rice brands available in the retail markets in the UAE were procured twice. Using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method, AFB1 was detected in 48 out of 128 rice samples (38%). The average contamination ± standard deviation of AFB1 among positive samples (above the detection limit) was found to be 1.66 ± 0.89 μg/kg, ranging from 1 μg/kg (detection limit) to 4.69 μg/kg. The contamination level in all the samples was below the limit set by the Gulf Cooperation Council Standardization Organization (≤5 μg/kg), while 10 (20.8%) of the positive samples had a contamination level above the maximum limit set by the European Union (≥2 μg/kg). The moisture content in all the assessed samples was ≤14%. Furthermore, there was a significant difference in AFB1 between samples in both collections (p-value = 0.043). However, the rice type, grain size, packing country, packing season, country of origin, collection season, and packing to purchasing time had no significant effect on AFB1. The calculated mean daily exposure level of the Emirati population to AFB1 from consuming rice was 4.83 ng/kg.
Deciphering the Role and Signaling Pathways of PKCα in Luminal A Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Serrano-López Emilio M. , Coronado-Parra Teresa , Marín-Vicente Consuelo , Szallasi Zoltan , Gómez-Abellán Victoria , López-Andreo María José , Gragera Marcos , Gómez-Fernández Juan C. , López-Nicolás Rubén , Corbalán-García Senena
Published: November 2022

Protein kinase C (PKC) comprises a family of highly related serine/threonine protein kinases involved in multiple signaling pathways, which control cell proliferation, survival, and differentiation. The role of PKCα in cancer has been studied for many years. However, it has been impossible to establish whether PKCα acts as an oncogene or a tumor suppressor. Here, we analyzed the importance of PKCα in cellular processes such as proliferation, migration, or apoptosis by inhibiting its gene expression in a luminal A breast cancer cell line (MCF-7). Differential expression analysis and phospho-kinase arrays of PKCα-KD vs. PKCα-WT MCF-7 cells identified an essential set of proteins and oncogenic kinases of the JAK/STAT and PI3K/AKT pathways that were down-regulated, whereas IGF1R, ERK1/2, and p53 were up-regulated. In addition, unexpected genes related to the interferon pathway appeared down-regulated, while PLC, ERBB4, or PDGFA displayed up-regulated. The integration of this information clearly showed us the usefulness of inhibiting a multifunctional kinase-like PKCα in the first step to control the tumor phenotype. Then allowing us to design a possible selection of specific inhibitors for the unexpected up-regulated pathways to further provide a second step of treatment to inhibit the proliferation and migration of MCF-7 cells. The results of this study suggest that PKCα plays an oncogenic role in this type of breast cancer model. In addition, it reveals the signaling mode of PKCα at both gene expression and kinase activation. In this way, a wide range of proteins can implement a new strategy to fine-tune the control of crucial functions in these cells and pave the way for designing targeted cancer therapies.
Transcription Factor IAA27 Positively Regulates P Uptake through Promoted Adventitious Root Development in Apple Plants
Authors: Zhao Shuo , Zhao Xuewen , Xu Xuefeng , Han Zhenhai , Qiu Changpeng
Published: November 2022

Phosphate (P) deficiency severely limits the growth and production of plants. Adventitious root development plays an essential role in responding to low phosphorus stress for apple plants. However, the molecular mechanisms regulating adventitious root growth and development in response to low phosphorus stress have remained elusive. In this study, a mutation (C-T) in the coding region of the apple AUXIN/INDOLE-3-ACETIC ACID 27 (IAA27) gene was identified. MdIAA27T-overexpressing transgenic apple improved the tolerance to phosphorus deficiency, which grew longer and denser adventitious roots and presented higher phosphorous content than the control plants under low phosphorus conditions, while the overexpression of MdIAA27C displayed the opposite trend. Moreover, the heterologous overexpression of MdIAA27 in tobacco yielded the same results, supporting the aforementioned findings. In vitro and in vivo assays showed that MdIAA27 directly interacted with AUXIN RESPONSE FACTOR (ARF8), ARF26 and ARF27, which regulated Small Auxin-Up RNA 76 (MdSAUR76) and lateral organ boundaries domain 16 (MdLBD16) transcription. The mutation in IAA27 resulted in altered interaction modes, which in turn promoted the release of positive ARFs to upregulate SAUR76 and LBD16 expression in low phosphorus conditions. Altogether, our studies provide insights into how the allelic variation of IAA27 affects adventitious root development in response to low phosphorus stress.
Physiological Adaptation Mechanisms to Drought and Rewatering in Water-Saving and Drought-Resistant Rice
Authors: Wang Lele , Zhang Xuenan , She Yehong , Hu Chao , Wang Quan , Wu Liquan , You Cuicui , Ke Jian , He Haibing
Published: November 2022

Water-saving and drought-resistant rice (WDR) has high a yield potential in drought. However, the photosynthetic adaptation mechanisms of WDR to drought and rehydration have yet to be conclusively determined. Hanyou 73 (HY73, WDR) and Huanghuazhan (HHZ, drought-sensitive cultivar) rice cultivars were subjected to drought stress and rewatering when the soil water potential was −180 KPa in the booting stage. The leaf physiological characteristics were dynamically determined at 0 KPa, −30 KPa, −70 KPa, −180 KPa, the first, the fifth, and the tenth day after rewatering. It was found that the maximum net photosynthetic rate (Amax) and light saturation point were decreased under drought conditions in both cultivars. The change in dark respiration rate (Rd) in HY73 was not significant, but was markedly different in HHZ. After rewatering, the photosynthetic parameters of HY73 completely returned to the initial state, while the indices in HHZ did not recover. The antioxidant enzyme activities and osmoregulatory substance levels increased with worsening drought conditions and decreased with rewatering duration. HY73 had higher peroxidase (POD) activity as well as proline levels, and lower catalase (CAT) activity, ascorbate peroxidase (APX) activity, malondialdehyde (MDA) level, and soluble protein (SP) content during all of the assessment periods compared with HHZ. In addition, Amax was markedly negatively correlated with superoxide dismutase (SOD), POD, CAT, and SP in HY73 (p < 0.001), while in HHZ, it was negatively correlated with SOD, CAT, APX, MDA, Pro, and SP, and positively correlated with Rd (p < 0.001). These results suggest that WDR has a more simplified adaptation mechanism to protect photosynthetic apparatus from damage in drought and rehydration compared with drought-sensitive cultivars. The high POD activity and great SP content would be considered as important physiological bases to maintain high photosynthetic production potential in WDR.
Integrated Transcriptomic, Metabolomic, and Physiological Analyses Reveal New Insights into Fragrance Formation in the Heartwood of Phoebe hui
Authors: Yang Hanbo , An Wenna , Wang Fang , Gu Yunjie , Guo Hongying , Jiang Yongze , Peng Jian , Liu Minhao , Chen Lianghua , Zhang Fan , Zhu Peng , Huang Xiong , Wan Xueqin
Published: November 2022

Phoebe hui is an extremely valuable tree that is the main source of the fragrant golden-thread nanmu wood. Although the fragrance of wood has been investigated in several trees, the potential substances and gene regulation mechanisms that are involved in fragrance formation are poorly understood. Here, three radial tissues, sapwood (SW), heartwood (HW), and the transition zone (TZ) in between them, were compared via integrative physiological, volatile-metabolomic, and transcriptomic analyses to identify the key metabolites and regulatory mechanisms involved in fragrance formation. During heartwood formation, gradual starch grain loss was accompanied by the deposition of lipids and extractives in the cell lumen. Extracts of terpenoids were synthesized and accumulated in the heartwood, including monoterpenoids (limonene and p-cymene) and sesquiterpenes (cubebene and guaiadiene); these were identified as being closely related to the special fragrance of the wood. Additionally, the expression of transcripts showed that the genes related to primary metabolism were specifically upregulated in the SW, whereas genes annotated in terpenoid biosynthesis were specifically upregulated in the HW. Therefore, we speculated that terpenoid biosynthesis occurs in situ in the HW via the HW formation model of Type-III (Santalum) using the precursors that were produced by primary metabolism in the SW. The expression levels of transcription factors (e.g., MYB, WRKY, and C2H2) acted as the major regulatory factors in the synthesis of terpenoids. Our results explain the special fragrance in P. hui and broaden the current knowledge of the regulatory mechanisms of fragrance formation. This work provides a framework for future research that is focused on improving wood quality and value.
Whole Genome Analysis of SLs Pathway Genes and Functional Characterization of DlSMXL6 in Longan Early Somatic Embryo Development
Authors: Zhang Xueying , Lai Chunwang , Liu Mengyu , Xue Xiaodong , Zhang Shuting , Chen Yan , Xiao Xuechen , Zhang Zihao , Chen Yukun , Lai Zhongxiong , Lin Yuling
Published: November 2022

Strigolactones (SLs), a new class of plant hormones, are implicated in the regulation of various biological processes. However, the related family members and functions are not identified in longan (Dimocarpus longan Lour.). In this study, 23 genes in the CCD, D27, and SMXL family were identified in the longan genome. The phylogenetic relationships, gene structure, conserved motifs, promoter elements, and transcription factor-binding site predictions were comprehensively analysed. The expression profiles indicated that these genes may play important roles in longan organ development and abiotic stress responses, especially during early somatic embryogenesis (SE). Furthermore, GR24 (synthetic SL analogue) and Tis108 (SL biosynthesis inhibitor) could affect longan early SE by regulating the levels of endogenous IAA (indole-3-acetic acid), JA (jasmonic acid), GA (gibberellin), and ABA (abscisic acid). Overexpression of SMXL6 resulted in inhibition of longan SE by regulating the synthesis of SLs, carotenoids, and IAA levels. This study establishes a foundation for further investigation of SL genes and provides novel insights into their biological functions.
Preparation and Characterization of Nanofibrous Membranes Electro-Spun from Blended Poly(l-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) and Recombinant Spider Silk Protein as Potential Skin Regeneration Scaffold
Authors: Wang Suyang , Zhu Hongnian , Meng Qing
Published: November 2022

Biomaterial scaffolding serves as an important strategy in skin tissue engineering. In this research, recombinant spider silk protein (RSSP) and poly(L-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) (PLCL) were blended in different ratios to fabricate nanofibrous membranes as potential skin regeneration scaffolds with an electro-spinning process. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), water contact angles measurement, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, wide angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD), tensile mechanical tests and thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA) were carried out to characterize the nanofibrous membranes. The results showed that the blending of RSSP greatly decreased the nanofibers’ average diameter, enhanced the hydrophilicity, changed the microstructure and thermal properties, and could enable tailored mechanical properties of the nanofibrous membranes. Among the blended membranes, the PLCL/RSSP (75/25) membrane was chosen for further investigation on biocompatibility. The results of hemolysis assays and for proliferation of human foreskin fibroblast cells (hFFCs) confirmed the membranes potential use as skin-regeneration scaffolds. Subsequent culture of mouse embryonic fibroblast cells (NIH-3T3) demonstrated the feasibility of the blended membranes as a human epidermal growth factor (hEGF) delivery matrix. The PLCL/RSSP (75/25) membrane possessed good properties comparable to those of human skin with high biocompatibility and the ability of hEGF delivery. Further studies can be carried out on such membranes with chemical or genetic modifications to make better scaffolds for skin regeneration.
Sphingosine 1-Phosphate and Apolipoprotein M Levels and Their Correlations with Inflammatory Biomarkers in Patients with Untreated Familial Hypercholesterolemia
Authors: Juhász Lilla , Lőrincz Hajnalka , Szentpéteri Anita , Nádró Bíborka , Varga Éva , Paragh György , Harangi Mariann
Published: November 2022

High-density lipoprotein (HDL)-bound apolipoprotein M/sphingosine 1-phosphate (ApoM/S1P) complex in cardiovascular diseases serves as a bridge between HDL and endothelial cells, maintaining a healthy endothelial barrier. To date, S1P and ApoM in patients with untreated heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH) have not been extensively studied. Eighty-one untreated patients with HeFH and 32 healthy control subjects were included in this study. Serum S1P, ApoM, sCD40L, sICAM-1, sVCAM-1, oxLDL, and TNFα concentrations were determined by ELISA. PON1 activities were measured spectrophotometrically. Lipoprotein subfractions were detected by Lipoprint. We diagnosed FH using the Dutch Lipid Clinic Network criteria. Significantly higher serum S1P and ApoM levels were found in HeFH patients compared to controls. S1P negatively correlated with large HDL and positively with small HDL subfractions in HeFH patients and the whole study population. S1P showed significant positive correlations with sCD40L and MMP-9 levels and PON1 arylesterase activity, while we found significant negative correlation between sVCAM-1 and S1P in HeFH patients. A backward stepwise multiple regression analysis showed that the best predictors of serum S1P were large HDL subfraction and arylesterase activity. Higher S1P and ApoM levels and their correlations with HDL subfractions and inflammatory markers in HeFH patients implied their possible role in endothelial protection.
Heat Flow and Thermal Stress Analysis to Enhance the Temperature Distribution and Service Life of Stone Grill Plates in Barbecue Ovens
Authors: Chen Wei-Long , Liao Kuo-Chien , Wu Hom-Yu , Wen Hung-Ta
Published: November 2022

The causes of the fracturing of stone grills in barbecue ovens were analyzed using a coupled analysis model that combined combustion thermodynamics with heat conduction and the finite element method. The proportion of mixed air for combustion was simulated, and the stone grill plate temperature and thermal stress distribution were the two factors taken to enhance the design of stone grill plates. Moreover, thermal images were used to compare the performance of the original and the improved plates to quantify the improvements, and validate the accuracy of the simulations. The results showed that the temperature distribution was uniform across the stone grill plate. When comparing the simulation model and the actual experiment, the simulation model can generate an optimal design with fewer errors in a shorter period. The combustion tube is deemed to have considerable influence on the performance of the barbecue oven. The surface temperature distribution of the stone grill plate was improved by controlling the amount of fuel entering the combustion system and/or changing the material and shape of the stone grill. On the other hand, the analysis results of the improved stone grill plate in this study showed that we can correct the temperature difference and thermal stress difference caused by the opening of the upper cover of the oven. According to our study, the average thermal stress on the surface of the stone grill plate was effectively reduced by 45.3 MPa. The average temperature difference decreased by 91 °C. At the same time, by improving the intake position and method of the combustion tube, the air mass flow in the combustion tube increased by 12%, which effectively improved the combustion efficiency of the combustion tube. In particular, a more uniform distribution was achieved by decreasing the temperature of the mixed air entering the combustion tube, which in turn increased the flow rate and velocity of the air flowing through the top of the flame to the bottom surface of the stone grill plate. The strategies employed can prevent the thermal-stress-induced fracturing of stone grill plates and prolong their service life.
Outcome after Surgery for Iatrogenic Acute Type A Aortic Dissection
Authors: Biancari Fausto , Pettinari Matteo , Mariscalco Giovanni , Mustonen Caius , Nappi Francesco , Buech Joscha , Hagl Christian , Fiore Antonio , Touma Joseph , Dell’Aquila Angelo M. , Wisniewski Konrad , Rukosujew Andreas , Perrotti Andrea , Hervé Amélie , Demal Till , Conradi Lenard , Pol Marek , Kacer Petr , Onorati Francesco , Rossetti Cecilia , Vendramin Igor , Piani Daniela , Rinaldi Mauro , Ferrante Luisa , Quintana Eduard , Pruna-Guillen Robert , Rodriguez Lega Javier , Pinto Angel G. , Mäkikallio Timo , Acharya Metesh , El-Dean Zein , Field Mark , Harky Amer , Gerelli Sebastien , Di Perna Dario , Jormalainen Mikko , Gatti Giuseppe , Mazzaro Enzo , Juvonen Tatu , Peterss Sven
Published: November 2022

(1) Background: Acute Stanford type A aortic dissection (TAAD) may complicate the outcome of cardiovascular procedures. Data on the outcome after surgery for iatrogenic acute TAAD is scarce. (2) Methods: The European Registry of Type A Aortic Dissection (ERTAAD) is a multicenter, retrospective study including patients who underwent surgery for acute TAAD at 18 hospitals from eight European countries. The primary outcomes were in-hospital mortality and 5-year mortality. Twenty-seven secondary outcomes were evaluated. (3) Results: Out of 3902 consecutive patients who underwent surgery for acute TAAD, 103 (2.6%) had iatrogenic TAAD. Cardiac surgery (37.8%) and percutaneous coronary intervention (36.9%) were the most frequent causes leading to iatrogenic TAAD, followed by diagnostic coronary angiography (13.6%), transcatheter aortic valve replacement (10.7%) and peripheral endovascular procedure (1.0%). In hospital mortality was 20.5% after cardiac surgery, 31.6% after percutaneous coronary intervention, 42.9% after diagnostic coronary angiography, 45.5% after transcatheter aortic valve replacement and nihil after peripheral endovascular procedure (p = 0.092), with similar 5-year mortality between different subgroups of iatrogenic TAAD (p = 0.710). Among 102 propensity score matched pairs, in-hospital mortality was significantly higher among patients with iatrogenic TAAD (30.4% vs. 15.7%, p = 0.013) compared to those with spontaneous TAAD. This finding was likely related to higher risk of postoperative heart failure (35.3% vs. 10.8%, p < 0.0001) among iatrogenic TAAD patients. Five-year mortality was comparable between patients with iatrogenic and spontaneous TAAD (46.2% vs. 39.4%, p = 0.163). (4) Conclusions: Iatrogenic origin of acute TAAD is quite uncommon but carries a significantly increased risk of in-hospital mortality compared to spontaneous TAAD.