bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-Performance Charge Pump Regulator with Integrated CMOS Voltage Sensing Control Circuit
Authors: Lee Chan-Soo , Monebi Ayodeji Matthew , Bayarsaikhan Dansran , Xu Songyuan , Ahn Bierng-Chearl , Lee In-Sung
Published: June 2023

This paper introduces a design for a charge pump DC-DC boost regulator with an integrated low-voltage control circuit. With a charge pump and feedback circuits implemented in 0.35 µm CMOS technology, the proposed DC-DC boost regulator offers an efficient device solution for low-power applications. The proposed design employs an error amplifier, oscillator, and comparator in the control circuit which is designed with a supply voltage of 1.8–3.5 V and 2 MHz frequency. Stability is obtained via a pole-zero compensation in the feedback circuit. The charge pump regulator with four pump stages and the whole regulator circuit are analyzed using the Cadence simulation tool. Measurements of the fabricated 0.35 µm CMOS regulator show that the transient time of the error amplifier is controlled within 1.0 µsec and the output voltage is accurately controlled from 7.8 V to 9.4 V with 27–38 mV ripple and 4.5 mA maximum current.
Human Power Production and Energy Harvesting
Authors: Cicchella Antonio
Published: June 2023

This entry presents a holistic examination of the problem of harvesting energy from the human body. With the advent of the industrial revolution, in modern times, there is less and less need for physical human work; at the same time, motion is essential for health. Thus, sports and physical leisure activities have seen a dramatic increase in popularity. Until several decades ago, energy consumption was not an issue, at least in developed countries, but in recent years, it has become more and more evident that energy resources are finite and that there are limits to how much anthropic pressure the environment can sustain; one evident outcome is global warming. The repurposing of human energy also has psychological benefits, making people socially responsible and transforming otherwise wasted potential into a rewarding activity. Thus, on a small scale, over time, it has become evident that re-using and saving energy are vital. Humans can produce a large amount of energy through physical work, but over the past few decades, technologies have been developed to store and reuse energy that would otherwise be wasted. Some interesting applications and a critical review of the problem, which is linked to human metabolism and sport, are presented.
Effects of Intergeneric Grafting of Schisandraceae on Root Morphology, Anatomy and Physiology of Rootstocks
Authors: Liao Hong-Yi , Wang Sen , Zhou Chun-Yu
Published: June 2023

Kadsura coccinea (Lem.) A. C. Smith and Schisandra sphenantha rehd. et wils. are different genus plants of Schisandraceae, distributed in the north and south of China, respectively. These species are non-wood forest trees with important medicinal value. Grafting is one of the technical means by which plants migrate to other regions to adapt to different habitats. However, the current research on the grafting of Schisandraceae only focuses on the effect of the rootstock on the scion, and lacks investigations on the effect of the scion on the rootstock, leading to the mechanism of the rootstock–scion interaction being still unclear. In this study, Kadsura coccinea (K) and Schisandra sphenanthera (S) were used as scion and rootstock for reciprocal grafting, and four grafted combinations, K/S (scion/rootstock), S/S, S/K, and K/K, were obtained, with S/S and K/K being the controls. Comparative analyses of the morphological, anatomical, and physiological characteristics of rootstocks were conducted at 10 d, 30 d, 50 d, and 70 d after grafting. The results showed that compared with the control, the total root length, root volume, root tips, and root biomass of K/S and S/K decreased. However, the root average diameter and root surface area of K/S increased, while those of S/K decreased. All the differences between the above indices and the control were about 10%, and almost all of them changed most significantly at 70 d after grafting. Anatomically, the root cross section, stele diameter, and xylem area of K/S increased, while those of S/K decreased. In addition, the cortex thicknesses of K/S and S/K increased. These anatomical changes were mainly reflected in the second-order and third-order roots. Meanwhile, the changes in root endogenous hormone (IAA, ZR, GA3, ABA) contents in K/S and S/K in relation to days after grafting could explain the differences in root morphology. Moreover, both K/S and S/K had lower root activity and soluble sugar content than the control, and S/K had lower soluble protein and higher malondialdehyde content. This study indicated that the intergeneric grafting of Schisandraceae inhibited the growth of rootstocks, and the degree of inhibition was potentially related to the relative strength of the rootstock and scion, which provides a theoretical basis for further research on the rootstock–scion interaction mechanism.
Attraction of Male Pine Sawflies, Diprion jingyuanensis, to Synthetic Pheromone Candidates: Synergism between Two Stereoisomers
Authors: Anderbrant Olle , Zhang Qing-He , Chen Guo-Fa , Östrand Fredrik , Bergström Gunnar , Wassgren Ann-Britt , Zhang Zhen , Hedenström Erik , Högberg Hans-Erik
Published: June 2023

The pine sawfly Diprion jingyuanensis Xiao and Zhang (Hymenoptera: Diprionidae) is a serious pest of Pinus tabulaeformis Carr. in the Shanxi, Gansu, and Inner Mongolia provinces in P. R. China. The sex pheromone of D. jingyuanensis was shown to be the propionate ester of 3,7-dimethyl-2-tridecanol. Virgin females contained an approximate 1:3 blend of the pheromone precursors erythro-(2S,3S,7R/S and 2R,3R,7R/S)-3,7-dimethyl-2-tridecanol and threo-(2S,3R,7R/S and 2R,3S,7R/S)-3,7-dimethyl-2-tridecanol, but the exact stereoisomers were not determined. Males responded the strongest to the propionate ester of the two threo-isomers, (2S,3R,7R) and (2S,3R,7S), in electroantennogram (EAG) recordings, followed by a significant EAG response to the (2S,3R,7R) propionate of diprionol (pheromone component of D. similis), whereas the remaining two isomers (2S,3S,7S and 2S,3S,7R) of the propionate ester of 3,7-dimethyl-2-tridecanol and the acetate of the (2S,3R,7R) isomer (one of the two pheromone components of D. pini) did not elicit any significant increase in antennal response. In the field, the strongly EAG-active (2S,3R,7R)-isomer alone was only weakly (but significantly) attractive to D. jingyuanensis males at 100 µg, while the equally EAG- active (2S,3R,7S)-isomer alone at the same loading was 8–14 times more attractive than was the (2S,3R,7R)-isomer alone. Traps baited with the same amounts of the two threo-isomers ((2S,3R,7R) and (2S,3R,7S), 100 µg + 100 µg) caught significantly more males than did traps baited with other isomers, either of the two isomers alone or other proportions of the two isomers. Thus, the (2S,3R,7S)-isomer is considered as a strong and essential sex-attractant component for D. jingyuanensis males, whereas the (2S,3R,7R)-isomer is a weak but synergistic sex-attractant. This is one of the few examples of a pine sawfly responding significantly stronger to a binary blend of stereoisomers in a synergistic fashion than to a single stereoisomer alone.
Integrated Sustainability Score Implementation as an Objective Function in Sustainable Metabolic Engineering
Authors: Muiznieks Reinis , Dace Elina , Stalidzans Egils
Published: June 2023

The sustainable metabolic engineering (SME) concept was defined by Stalidzans and Dace as an approach to the selection of the most sustainable metabolic engineering designs taking the economic, environmental and social components of sustainability into account. At the centre of the sustainability calculations is a genome-scale metabolic model that provides full balance of all incoming and outgoing metabolic fluxes at steady state. Therefore, sustainability indicators are assigned for each exchange reaction, enabling the calculation of sustainability features of consumption or production of each metabolite. The further development of the SME concept depends on its implementation at the computational level to acquire applicable results—sustainable production strain designs. This study proposes for the first time a workflow and tools of SME implementation using constraint-based stoichiometric modelling, genome-scale metabolic models and growth-coupled product synthesis approach. To demonstrate the application of SME, a relatively simple engineering task has been carried out. The most sustainable designs have been identified using Escherichia coli as the chassis organism, glucose as a substrate and gene deletions as a metabolic engineering tool. A growth-coupled production design tool has been used to reduce the variability of sustainability. The 10,000 most sustainable designs are found to produce succinate as the main product with the number of deleted genes ranging from two to seven. Many similar designs were identified due to the combinatorial explosion of different alternative combinations of gene deletion sets that have the same impact on the metabolism.
A Blockchain Self-Sovereign Identity for Open Banking Secured by the Customer’s Banking Cards
Authors: Ahmed Khaled A. M. , Saraya Sabry F. , Wanis John F. , Ali-Eldin Amr M. T.
Published: June 2023

Open finance is evolving and extending open banking. This creates a large context that implies a financial and identity data exchange paradigm, which faces challenges to balance customer experience, security, and the self-control over personal identity information. We propose Self-Sovereign Banking Identity (SSBI), a Blockchain-based self-sovereign identity (SSI) to secure private data sharing by utilizing trusted customer’s banking cards as a key storage and identity transaction-signing enclave. The design and implementation of the SSI framework is based on the Veramo SDK and Ethereum to overcome the limitation of signing curve availability on the current banking Java Cards needed for Hyperledger Indy. SSBI uses the elliptic curve SECP256K1 for transaction signing, which exists for several payment cards in the market. SSBI enables automated financial services and trust in the service provider communication. This work analyzes the flow and framework components, and evaluates the usability, integration, and performance in terms of throughput, latency, security, and complexity. Furthermore, the proposed approach is compared with related solutions. The presented prototype implementation is based on a test Ethereum network and signing transactions on the banking card. The preliminary results show that SSBI provides an effective solution for integrating the customer’s banking cards to secure open banking identity exchange. Furthermore, it allows the integration of several scenarios to support trusted open banking. The Blockchain layer settings need to be scaled and improved before real-world implementation.
Nonlinear Inverse Problems for Equations with Dzhrbashyan–Nersesyan Derivatives
Authors: Fedorov Vladimir E. , Plekhanova Marina V. , Melekhina Daria V.
Published: June 2023

The unique solvability in the sense of classical solutions for nonlinear inverse problems to differential equations, solved for the oldest Dzhrbashyan–Nersesyan fractional derivative, is studied. The linear part of the equation contains a bounded operator, a continuous nonlinear operator that depends on lower-order Dzhrbashyan–Nersesyan derivatives, and an unknown element. The inverse problem is given by an equation, special initial value conditions for lower Dzhrbashyan–Nersesyan derivatives, and an overdetermination condition, which is defined by a linear continuous operator. Applying the fixed-point method for contraction mapping a theorem on the existence of a local unique solution is proved under the condition of local Lipschitz continuity of the nonlinear mapping. Analogous nonlocal results were obtained for the case of the nonlocally Lipschitz continuous nonlinear operator in the equation. The obtained results for the problem in arbitrary Banach spaces were used for the research of nonlinear inverse problems with time-dependent unknown coefficients at lower-order Dzhrbashyan–Nersesyan time-fractional derivatives for integro-differential equations and for a linearized system of dynamics of fractional Kelvin–Voigt viscoelastic media.
Statistical and Predictive Analyses of the Strength Development of a Cement-Treated Clayey Soil
Authors: Abdallah Adel , Russo Giacomo , Cuisinier Olivier
Published: June 2023

The mechanical efficiency of soil stabilization with cement is mainly controlled by various parameters, namely, the amount of binder, the compaction soil state and the curing conditions. The strength of the treated soil is the result of a complex combination of several factors that condition the physicochemical processes involved in cement hydration, which are difficult to monitor. The objective of this study is to identify the relevant parameters governing the bonding in cement-treated soil and suggest a predictive model for strength evolution using these parameters as input. To this purpose, an extensive testing program is presented to assess the impact of the initial water content (11–18%) and dry density (1.6–1.87 Mg/m3) as well as cement dosage (3 and 6%) in sealed curing conditions for 0, 7, 28 and 90 days. The water content variation, the total suction and the compressive strength were measured after different curing durations. The experimental results are first discussed in the parameters’ space, and then through a principal components analysis to overcome the complexity due to the parameters’ interdependency. The PCA revealed that the cement dosage explained 40% of the dataset variance, the remaining 60% being related to a combination of the initial state and curing time. Finally, a predictive model based on an artificial neural network was developed and tested. The predicted results were excellent, with an R2 of +0.99 with the training data and +0.93 with the testing data. These results should be improved by extending the dataset to include different soils and additional compaction conditions.
R.A.O. Project Recovery: Methods and Approaches for the Recovery of a Photographic Archive for the Creation of a Photogrammetric Survey of a Site Unreachable over Time
Authors: Lauro Vittorio , Giovannangelo Marco , De Riggi Mariella , Lanzaro Nicola , Murtas Vittorio
Published: June 2023

The goal of this research is to make photogrammetric surveys of the walls of Cortona from 2012 accessible using new methodologies for recovering photographic material. This will allow a team of archaeologists to carry out a virtual reconnaissance of the surveyed stretch of wall as well as provide the basis for future investigations into any potential changes that may have occurred in the wall since 2012. Photogrammetry is a widely used technique in archaeology that can help researchers accurately measure, reconstruct, and analyze different architectural components of the wall. By using state-of-the-art photogrammetric techniques, including advanced computer vision algorithms, our team aims to produce high-quality 3D models and accurate measurements of different parts of the wall. The results of this research project will enable archaeologists to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the layout of the fortifications and the role of the Cortonese walls in the historical context of the area. Additionally, the research project will provide a detailed documentation of the wall that will be useful for both archaeological researchers and cultural heritage organizations. Finally, the research project will also provide the basis for future investigations into potential changes that may have occurred in the wall since 2012, which will be important for monitoring conservation and restoration efforts and providing an up-to-date record of the wall’s state of preservation.
The Need for Nigeria to Embrace the Hygiene Rating Scheme
Authors: Akegbe Hope , Onyeaka Helen , Omotosho Adeola Dolapo , Ochulor Chidinma Ezinne , Njoagwuani Esther Ibe , Mazi Ifeanyi Michael , Oladunjoye Iyiola Olatunji , Nwaiwu Ogueri , Odeyemi Olumide A. , Tamasiga Phemelo
Published: June 2023

Foodborne diseases pose a primary global health concern, affecting people across high- and low-income countries, with the less privileged often suffering the most. This research proposes the adoption of a Hygiene Rating Scheme (HRS) to help customers make informed decisions about where and what to eat. The scheme has already demonstrated success in countries such as the United States, Northern Ireland, Wales, and England in reducing the risk of foodborne diseases. This article highlights the significance of Nigeria embracing the HRS and its potential to combat foodborne diseases. Adopting the scheme will incentivize food business owners to improve their sanitary conditions and food quality by implementing Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs). The scheme’s transparent inspection results make it easier for customers to choose higher-rated outlets, reducing the cost of disease outbreaks and promoting public health. In conclusion, the HRS provides a practical solution to addressing the issue of foodborne diseases and promoting food safety.
Developing Co-Creation Research in Food Retail Environments: A Descriptive Case Study of a Healthy Supermarket Initiative in Regional Victoria, Australia
Authors: Vargas Carmen , Whelan Jillian , Feery Louise , Greenslade Deborah , Farrington Melissa , Brimblecombe Julie , Thuruthikattu Freddy , Allender Steven
Published: June 2023

Research into the co-creation of healthy food retail is in its early stages. One way to advance co-creation research is to explore and understand how co-creation was applied in developing, implementing, and evaluating a heath-enabling initiative in a supermarket in regional Victoria, Australia. A case study design was used to explore and understand how co-creation was applied in the Eat Well, Feel Good Ballarat project. Six documents and reports related to the Eat Well, Feel Good Ballarat project were analyzed with findings from the focus groups and interviews. Motivations to develop or implement health-enabling supermarket initiatives differed among the participants. Participants considered that initial negotiations were insufficient to keep the momentum going and to propose the value to the retailers to scale up the project. Presenting community-identified needs to the supermarket helped gain the retailer’s attention, whilst the co-design process helped the implementation. Showcasing the project to the community through media exposure kept the supermarket interested. Retailers’ time constraints and staff turnover were considered significant barriers to partnership building. This case study contributes insights into applying co-creation to health-enabling strategies in food retail outlets using two co-creation frameworks.
“My Cross-Border PhD Journey”: A Qualitative Study on the Educational and Life Challenges of Mainland Chinese PhD Students in Hong Kong
Authors: Jia Jing , Yeung Nelson C. Y.
Published: June 2023

PhD students’ poor mental health has been increasingly concerning. However, challenges among PhD students studying aboard are understudied. The Educational and Life Transitions (ELT) model postulates that international PhD students are subject to both academic and acculturative stressors; however, relevant research is limited in the Chinese context. We examined mainland Chinese PhD students’ study and living experiences in Hong Kong using a qualitative approach. Through purposive sampling, 37 mainland Chinese PhD students in different disciplines from public-funded universities in Hong Kong were recruited to participate in online focus group interviews (December 2020–February 2021). The interviews were analyzed using the framework analysis method. Ten themes of academic/acculturative stressors were identified. The academic stressors included: (1) high expectations from the supervisors; (2) emphasis on self-discipline as PhD students; (3) peer comparison in academia; (4) difficulties shifting research directions/academic disciplines; (5) uncertainties about future career. The acculturative stressors included: (1) differences in the political environment; (2) language barriers; (3) difficulties living in Hong Kong; (4) limited social interaction with others; (5) local people’s discriminatory behaviors. This study sheds light on the stressors experienced by mainland Chinese PhD students in Hong Kong. To better address those students’ academic and acculturative stressors, cross-cultural training and additional support from supervisors/the university could be provided.
Adolescent Cyberbullies’ Attributions: Longitudinal Linkages to Cyberbullying Perpetration
Authors: Wright Michelle F.
Published: June 2023

The aim of the present study was to examine cyberbullies’ attributions pertaining to their perpetration of cyberbullying, and how such attributions relate to their cyberbullying behaviors six months later. Participants were 216 adolescents (M = 13.46, SD = 0.62 years; 55% female) from the suburbs of a large Midwestern city in the United States. They were interviewed face-to-face in the fall of 2018 concerning why they acted in negative ways toward peers online or through text messages. They also answered questionnaires regarding how often they perpetrated face-to-face bullying and cyberbullying during the fall of 2018 and spring of 2019. The attributions of revenge, convenience, anger, and anonymity each predicted cyberbullying at the second time point while controlling for face-to-face bullying perpetration. Results from this study provide important information to the literature regarding cyberbullies’ attributions for perpetrating cyberbullying, and how such attributions predict future cyberbullying perpetration. These findings are important for the development of antibullying programs that might aim to change adolescents’ attributions for cyberbullying perpetration to reduce continued engagement in these behaviors.
The Emerging Roles of the Cephalic Neural Crest in Brain Development and Developmental Encephalopathies
Authors: Bruet Emmanuel , Amarante-Silva Diego , Gorojankina Tatiana , Creuzet Sophie
Published: June 2023

The neural crest, a unique cell population originating from the primitive neural field, has a multi-systemic and structural contribution to vertebrate development. At the cephalic level, the neural crest generates most of the skeletal tissues encasing the developing forebrain and provides the prosencephalon with functional vasculature and meninges. Over the last decade, we have demonstrated that the cephalic neural crest (CNC) exerts an autonomous and prominent control on the development of the forebrain and sense organs. The present paper reviews the primary mechanisms by which CNC can orchestrate vertebrate encephalization. Demonstrating the role of the CNC as an exogenous source of patterning for the forebrain provides a novel conceptual framework with profound implications for understanding neurodevelopment. From a biomedical standpoint, these data suggest that the spectrum of neurocristopathies is broader than expected and that some neurological disorders may stem from CNC dysfunctions.
Dementia in Diabetes: The Role of Hypoglycemia
Authors: Husain Khaled Hameed , Sarhan Saud Faisal , AlKhalifa Haya Khaled Ali Abdulla , Buhasan Asal , Moin Abu Saleh Md , Butler Alexandra E.
Published: June 2023

Hypoglycemia, a common consequence of diabetes treatment, is associated with severe morbidity and mortality and has become a major barrier to intensifying antidiabetic therapy. Severe hypoglycemia, defined as abnormally low blood glucose requiring the assistance of another person, is associated with seizures and comas, but even mild hypoglycemia can cause troubling symptoms such as anxiety, palpitations, and confusion. Dementia generally refers to the loss of memory, language, problem-solving, and other cognitive functions, which can interfere with daily life, and there is growing evidence that diabetes is associated with an increased risk of both vascular and non-vascular dementia. Neuroglycopenia resulting from a hypoglycemic episode in diabetic patients can lead to the degeneration of brain cells, with a resultant cognitive decline, leading to dementia. In light of new evidence, a deeper understating of the relationship between hypoglycemia and dementia can help to inform and guide preventative strategies. In this review, we discuss the epidemiology of dementia among patients with diabetes, and the emerging mechanisms thought to underlie the association between hypoglycemia and dementia. Furthermore, we discuss the risks of various pharmacological therapies, emerging therapies to combat hypoglycemia-induced dementia, as well as risk minimization strategies.
Iodine-Biofortified Lettuce Can Promote Mitochondrial Dependent Pathway of Apoptosis in Human Gastrointestinal Cancer Cells
Authors: Sularz Olga , Koronowicz Aneta , Smoleń Sylwester , Boycott Cayla , Stefanska Barbara
Published: June 2023

Previously, our research provided evidence that exposure of gastric and colon cancer cells to extracts from iodine-biofortified lettuce leads to a reduction of cell viability and proliferation through cell cycle arrest and upregulation of pro-apoptotic genes. The aim of the present study was to determine the potential cellular mechanisms of induction of cell death in human gastrointestinal cancer cell lines after treatment with iodine-biofortified lettuce. We demonstrated that extracts from lettuce enriched with iodine induce apoptosis in gastric AGS and colon HT-29 cancer cells and the mechanism of programmed cell death may be triggered and executed through different signaling pathways, depending on the type of cells. Western blot analysis revealed that iodine-fortified lettuce leads to cell death through the release of cytochrome c to the cytosolic fraction and activation of the primary drivers of apoptosis: caspase-3, caspase-7, and caspase-9. Furthermore, we have reported that apoptotic effects of lettuce extracts may be mediated by poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) and activation of pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins such as Bad, Bax, and BID. We also observed mitochondrial dysfunction with the dissipation of the mitochondrial membrane potential in cells exposed to lettuce extracts. Taken together, these results indicate that the organic form of iodine such as 5-ISA and 3,5-diISA is an important factor in the activation of intrinsic mitochondrial apoptotic pathway in AGS and HT-29 cancer cells in a p53-independent manner.
Tannic Acid Mitigates Rotenone-Induced Dopaminergic Neurodegeneration by Inhibiting Inflammation, Oxidative Stress, Apoptosis, and Glutamate Toxicity in Rats
Authors: Azimullah Sheikh , Meeran Mohamed Fizur Nagoor , Ayoob Khatija , Arunachalam Seenipandi , Ojha Shreesh , Beiram Rami
Published: June 2023

Parkinson’s disease (PD), a movement disorder, is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) region of the brain. The etiopathogenesis of PD involves increased oxidative stress, augmented inflammation, impaired autophagy, accumulation of α-synuclein, and α-Glutamate neurotoxicity. The treatment of PD is limited and there is a lack of agents to prevent the disease/delay its progression and inhibit the onset of pathogenic events. Many agents of natural and synthetic origin have been investigated employing experimental models of PD, mimicking human PD. In the present study, we assessed the effect of tannic acid (TA) in a rodent model of PD induced by rotenone (ROT), a pesticide and an environmental toxin of natural origin reported to cause PD in agricultural workers and farmers. Rotenone (2.5 mg/kg/day, i.p.) was administered for 28 days, and TA (50 mg/kg, orally) was administered 30 min before ROT injections. The study results showed an increase in oxidative stress, as evidenced by the depletion of endogenous antioxidants and enhanced formation of lipid peroxidation products, along with the onset of inflammation following a rise in inflammatory mediators and proinflammatory cytokines. ROT injections have also augmented apoptosis, impaired autophagy, promoted synaptic loss, and perturbed α-Glutamate hyperpolarization in rats. ROT injections also induced the loss of dopaminergic neurons subsequent to the activation of microglia and astrocytes. However, TA treatment was observed to reduce lipid peroxidation, prevent loss of endogenous antioxidants, and inhibit the release and synthesis of proinflammatory cytokines, in addition to the favorable modulation of apoptosis and autophagic pathways. Treatment with TA also attenuated the activation of microglia and astrocytes along with preservation of dopaminergic neurons following reduced loss of dopaminergic neurodegeneration and inhibition of synaptic loss and α-Glutamate cytotoxicity. The effects of TA in ROT-induced PD were attributed to the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and neurogenesis properties. Based on the present study findings, it can be concluded that TA may be a promising novel therapeutic candidate for pharmaceutical as well as nutraceutical development owing to its neuroprotective properties in PD. Further regulatory toxicology and translational studies are suggested for future clinical usage in PD.
Impact of Two Phosphorus Fertilizer Formulations on Wheat Physiology, Rhizosphere, and Rhizoplane Microbiota
Authors: Bourak Kaoutar , Sare Abdoul Razack , Allaoui Abdelmounaaim , Jijakli M. Haissam , Massart Sébastien
Published: June 2023

Phosphorus (P) is the second most important macronutrient for crop growth and a limiting factor in food production. Choosing the right P fertilizer formulation is important for crop production systems because P is not mobile in soils, and placing phosphate fertilizers is a major management decision. In addition, root microorganisms play an important role in helping phosphorus fertilization management by regulating soil properties and fertility through different pathways. Our study evaluated the impact of two phosphorous formulations (polyphosphates and orthophosphates) on physiological traits of wheat related to yield (photosynthetic parameters, biomass, and root morphology) and its associated microbiota. A greenhouse experiment was conducted using agricultural soil deficient in P (1.49%). Phenotyping technologies were used at the tillering, stem elongation, heading, flowering, and grain-filling stages. The evaluation of wheat physiological traits revealed highly significant differences between treated and untreated plants but not between phosphorous fertilizers. High-throughput sequencing technologies were applied to analyse the wheat rhizosphere and rhizoplane microbiota at the tillering and the grain-filling growth stages. The alpha- and beta-diversity analyses of bacterial and fungal microbiota revealed differences between fertilized and non-fertilized wheat, rhizosphere, and rhizoplane, and the tillering and grain-filling growth stages. Our study provides new information on the composition of the wheat microbiota in the rhizosphere and rhizoplane during growth stages (Z39 and Z69) under polyphosphate and orthophosphate fertilization. Hence, a deeper understanding of this interaction could provide better insights into managing microbial communities to promote beneficial plant–microbiome interactions for P uptake.
Cognitive Impairments, Neuroinflammation and Blood–Brain Barrier Permeability in Mice Exposed to Chronic Sleep Fragmentation during the Daylight Period
Authors: Puech Clementine , Badran Mohammad , Runion Alexandra R. , Barrow Max B. , Cataldo Kylie , Gozal David
Published: June 2023

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a chronic condition characterized by intermittent hypoxia (IH) and sleep fragmentation (SF). In murine models, chronic SF can impair endothelial function and induce cognitive declines. These deficits are likely mediated, at least in part, by alterations in Blood–brain barrier (BBB) integrity. Male C57Bl/6J mice were randomly assigned to SF or sleep control (SC) conditions for 4 or 9 weeks and in a subset 2 or 6 weeks of normal sleep recovery. The presence of inflammation and microglia activation were evaluated. Explicit memory function was assessed with the novel object recognition (NOR) test, while BBB permeability was determined by systemic dextran-4kDA-FITC injection and Claudin 5 expression. SF exposures resulted in decreased NOR performance and in increased inflammatory markers and microglial activation, as well as enhanced BBB permeability. Explicit memory and BBB permeability were significantly associated. BBB permeability remained elevated after 2 weeks of sleep recovery (p < 0.01) and returned to baseline values only after 6 weeks. Chronic SF exposures mimicking the fragmentation of sleep that characterizes patients with OSA elicits evidence of inflammation in brain regions and explicit memory impairments in mice. Similarly, SF is also associated with increased BBB permeability, the magnitude of which is closely associated with cognitive functional losses. Despite the normalization of sleep patterns, BBB functional recovery is a protracted process that merits further investigation.
Molecular Detection of Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum and Encephalitozoon spp. in Vespertilionid Bats from Central Europe
Authors: Bártová Eva , Marková Jiřina , Sedláčková Jana , Banďouchová Hana , Račka Karol
Published: June 2023

Bats may carry various viruses and bacteria which can be harmful to humans, but little is known about their role as a parasitic source with zoonotic potential. The aim of this study was to test wild bats for the presence of selected parasites: Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum and microsporidia Encephalitozoon spp. In total, brain and small intestine tissues of 100 bats (52 Myotis myotis, 43 Nyctalus noctula and 5 Vespertilio murinus) were used for the DNA isolation and PCR detection of the abovementioned agents. Toxoplasma gondii DNA was detected by real-time PCR in 1% of bats (in one male of M. myotis), while all bats were negative for N. caninum DNA. Encephalitozoon spp. DNA was detected by nested PCR in 25% of bats, including three species (twenty-two M. myotis, two N. noctula and one V. murinus). Positive samples were sequenced and showed homology with the genotypes Encephalitozoon cuniculi II and Encephalitozoon hellem 2C. This is the first study on wild vespertilionid bats from Central Europe and worldwide, with a relatively high positivity of Encephalitozoon spp. detected in bats.
Regulation of PD-L1 Expression by Nuclear Receptors
Authors: Kiriyama Yoshimitsu , Nochi Hiromi
Published: June 2023

The suppression of excessive immune responses is necessary to prevent injury to the body, but it also allows cancer cells to escape immune responses and proliferate. Programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) is a co-inhibitory molecule that is present on T cells and is the receptor for programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1). The binding of PD-1 to PD-L1 leads to the inhibition of the T cell receptor signaling cascade. PD-L1 has been found to be expressed in many types of cancers, such as lung, ovarian, and breast cancer, as well as glioblastoma. Furthermore, PD-L1 mRNA is widely expressed in normal peripheral tissues including the heart, skeletal muscle, placenta, lungs, thymus, spleen, kidney, and liver. The expression of PD-L1 is upregulated by proinflammatory cytokines and growth factors via a number of transcription factors. In addition, various nuclear receptors, such as androgen receptor, estrogen receptor, peroxisome-proliferator-activated receptor γ, and retinoic-acid-related orphan receptor γ, also regulate the expression of PD-L1. This review will focus on the current knowledge of the regulation of PD-L1 expression by nuclear receptors.
Mild Winter Causes Increased Mortality in the Fall Webworm Hyphantria cunea (Lepidoptera: Arctiidae)
Authors: Matsuura Takahiro , Bangay Rohit , Tuno Nobuko
Published: June 2023

The fall webworm Hyphantria cunea (Drury) is native to North America and Mexico and has currently expanded its distribution to the temperate areas of the Northern Hemisphere including Japan. According to the data on seasonal fluctuations of this moth for 18 years collected in western-central Japan, the abundance of adults of the overwintered generation showed a negative correlation with winter temperature. We investigated survival, weight loss, and fungal infection of diapausing pupae at 3.0 (an approximate temperature of cold winter) and 7.4 °C (a temperature of mild winter). In the results, mortality was higher and weight loss was larger in pupae exposed to 7.4 °C than in those exposed to 3.0 °C. In addition, pupae that were heavier at the start of cold exposure survived longer than lighter ones. Furthermore, almost all pupae that died at 7.4 °C were infected by fungi. It has been reported that the distribution range of this moth shifts to higher latitudes. According to the experiments conducted, it has been observed that warm winters can lead to a decrease in pupae weight and an increase in fungal deaths; however, the impact of warm winters on populations in the field can be more complicated and multifaceted.
The Peroxidase-like Nanocomposites as Hydrogen Peroxide-Sensitive Elements in Cholesterol Oxidase-Based Biosensors for Cholesterol Assay
Authors: Demkiv Olha , Nogala Wojciech , Stasyuk Nataliya , Grynchyshyn Nadiya , Vus Bohdan , Gonchar Mykhailo
Published: June 2023

Catalytically active nanomaterials, in particular, nanozymes, are promising candidates for applications in biosensors due to their excellent catalytic activity, stability and cost-effective preparation. Nanozymes with peroxidase-like activities are prospective candidates for applications in biosensors. The purpose of the current work is to develop cholesterol oxidase-based amperometric bionanosensors using novel nanocomposites as peroxidase (HRP) mimetics. To select the most electroactive chemosensor on hydrogen peroxide, a wide range of nanomaterials were synthesized and characterized using cyclic voltammetry (CV) and chronoamperometry. Pt NPs were deposited on the surface of a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) in order to improve the conductivity and sensitivity of the nanocomposites. The most HRP-like active bi-metallic CuFe nanoparticles (nCuFe) were placed on a previously nano-platinized electrode, followed by conjugation of cholesterol oxidase (ChOx) in a cross-linking film formed by cysteamine and glutaraldehyde. The constructed nanostructured bioelectrode ChOx/nCuFe/nPt/GCE was characterized by CV and chronoamperometry in the presence of cholesterol. The bionanosensor (ChOx/nCuFe/nPt/GCE) shows a high sensitivity (3960 A·M−1·m−2) for cholesterol, a wide linear range (2–50 µM) and good storage stability at a low working potential (−0.25 V vs. Ag/AgCl/3 M KCl). The constructed bionanosensor was tested on a real serum sample. A detailed comparative analysis of the bioanalytical characteristics of the developed cholesterol bionanosensor and the known analogs is presented.
Multi-Response Optimization and Influence of Expanded Graphite on Performance of WEDM Process of Ti6Al4V
Authors: Vora Jay , Shah Yug , Khanna Sakshum , Patel Vivek K. , Jagdale Manoj , Chaudhari Rakesh
Published: June 2023

Wire electrical discharge machining (WEDM) is widely preferred for machining difficult-to-cut materials like Ti6Al4V. In the present study, current, pulse-off-duration (Toff), and pulse-on-duration (Toff) were identified as vital input factors for the WEDM process of Ti6Al4V. Material removal rate (MRR) and surface roughness (SR) were selected as output measures for the study. The experiments were carried out by employing Taguchi’s L9 design at three levels. Empirical models were generated, which give the relationship between the input and output factors of the process. To check the acceptability of the model terms, analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used. The regression mode was observed to be significant for the output measures. For MRR, Toff was recorded as the highly significant factor affecting the response values with 74.95% impact, followed by Ton with 16.39%, and current with 6.56%. In the case of SR, Ton was found to be a highly significant factor with a 50.24% impact, followed by current with 43.99%, and Toff with 1.47%. Further, multi-objective optimization by using the HTS technique was performed. The effect of expanded graphite (EG) nano-powder has been studied on the output factors of MRR and SR. The use of EG nano-powder was found to improve WEDM operations as MRR was increased by 45.35%, and simultaneously, SR was reduced by 36.16%. Lastly, the surface morphology of the machined surface was investigated by employing SEM to understand the effect of EG nano-powder. The results have shown a reduction in surface defects by using EG nano-powder compared to the conventional WEDM process.
The Role of Leukemia Inhibitory Factor in Counteracting the Immunopathology of Acute and Chronic Lung Inflammatory Diseases
Authors: Yu Howard , Zaveri Sahil , Pillai Meshach , Taluru Harsha , Schaible Michael , Chaddha Sahil , Ahmed Asad , Tfaili Said , Geraghty Patrick
Published: June 2023

Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), a member of the IL-6 cytokine family, is highly expressed throughout the body in multiple tissues and cell types. LIF is primarily known to induce the differentiation of myeloid leukemia cells, but recent studies show that LIF has many other functions, including playing multiple roles in cancer and normal physiology. LIF expression is linked to cellular proliferation, metastasis, inflammation, and chemoresistance. LIF expression and secretion are triggered by many means and its downstream signaling can vary based on tissue types. Recent publications suggest that LIF may play a role in pulmonary diseases and its regulation is altered through external factors, such as cigarette smoke, inflammation stimuli, or infections. This review outlines the current knowledge of the function of LIF protein, mediators of LIF expression, receptors it interacts with, downstream LIF signaling, and possible pulmonary outcomes mediated by LIF.
The Pathophysiology, Identification and Management of Fracture Risk, Sublesional Osteoporosis and Fracture among Adults with Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Craven Beverley Catharine , Cirnigliaro Christopher M. , Carbone Laura D. , Tsang Philemon , Morse Leslie R.
Published: June 2023

Background: The prevention of lower extremity fractures and fracture-related morbidity and mortality is a critical component of health services for adults living with chronic spinal cord injury (SCI). Methods: Established best practices and guideline recommendations are articulated in recent international consensus documents from the International Society of Clinical Densitometry, the Paralyzed Veterans of America Consortium for Spinal Cord Medicine and the Orthopedic Trauma Association. Results: This review is a synthesis of the aforementioned consensus documents, which highlight the pathophysiology of lower extremity bone mineral density (BMD) decline after acute SCI. The role and actions treating clinicians should take to screen, diagnose and initiate the appropriate treatment of established low bone mass/osteoporosis of the hip, distal femur or proximal tibia regions associated with moderate or high fracture risk or diagnose and manage a lower extremity fracture among adults with chronic SCI are articulated. Guidance regarding the prescription of dietary calcium, vitamin D supplements, rehabilitation interventions (passive standing, functional electrical stimulation (FES) or neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES)) to modify bone mass and/or anti-resorptive drug therapy (Alendronate, Denosumab, or Zoledronic Acid) is provided. In the event of lower extremity fracture, the need for timely orthopedic consultation for fracture diagnosis and interprofessional care following definitive fracture management to prevent health complications (venous thromboembolism, pressure injury, and autonomic dysreflexia) and rehabilitation interventions to return the individual to his/her pre-fracture functional abilities is emphasized. Conclusions: Interprofessional care teams should use recent consensus publications to drive sustained practice change to mitigate fracture incidence and fracture-related morbidity and mortality among adults with chronic SCI.
Optimal Recommendation Strategies for AI-Powered E-Commerce Platforms: A Study of Duopoly Manufacturers and Market Competition
Authors: Zhou Chi , Li He , Zhang Linlin , Ren Yufei
Published: June 2023

Artificial intelligence-powered recommendation systems have gained popularity as a tool to enhance user experience and boost sales. Platforms often need to make decisions about which seller to recommend and the strength of the recommendation when conducting recommendations. Therefore, it is necessary to explore the recommendation strategy of the platform in the case of duopoly competition. We develop a game model where two competing manufacturers sell products through an agency contract on a common platform, and they can decide whether or not to provide recommendations to the manufacturers. Our highlight lies in the endogenous recommendation strength of the platform. The findings suggest that it is optimal for the platform to offer recommendation services when the commission rate is high. The platform also prefers to only recommend one manufacturer in the market with low or high competition, but it prefers to recommend both manufacturers in moderately competitive markets. From the view of manufacturers, they can benefit from the recommendation service as long as the commission rate is not too low. Moreover, recommending only one manufacturer consistently yields stronger recommendations compared to recommending multiple manufacturers. However, the impact of recommendation on prices is influenced by the commission rate and product substitutability. These results have significant implications for platform decision making and provide valuable insights into the trade-offs involved in the development of recommendation systems.
4,5-Di-tert-butyl-1,3,6,8-tetraphenyl-4,5,8a,8b-tetrahydro-as-indacene
Authors: Colon-Madera Shakira I. , Jennings Abby R. , Iacono Scott T. , Balaich Gary J.
Published: June 2023

Reaction of triplet O2 with the bridged dipotassium dicyclopentadienyl salt, ansa-[(CHBut)2(Ph2C5H2)2]K2(THF)3 1, in dry MeCN facilitated an intramolecular cyclopentadienyl ring-C to ring-C bond formation and the precipitation of the crude product 4,5-di-tert-butyl-1,3,6,8-tetraphenyl-4,5,8a,8b-tetrahydro-as-indacene 2 as an off-white solid in a 73% yield (>95% pure, 1H NMR). Characterization of 2 was carried out using multinuclear NMR spectroscopy (1H and 13C), single-crystal X-ray crystallography, FTIR spectroscopy, and thermal analytical techniques (SDT, DSC). The molecular structure consisted of a rigid, C2-symmetric six-membered ring in a chair conformation with four of the ring-C atoms fused to 1,3-diphenylcyclopentadiene rings and the other two ring-C atoms substituted with trans di-axial But groups.