bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of a Five-Month Lockdown Due to COVID-19 on Physical Fitness Parameters in Adolescent Students: A Comparison between Cohorts
Authors: Tsoukos Athanasios , Bogdanis Gregory C.
Published: December 2021

Background: This study examined the effects of a five-month lockdown due to COVID-19 pandemic on physical fitness parameters in urban adolescent male and female students. Methods: Two hundred and ninety-three male and female students (age: 15.8 ± 0.3 years) who attended the fourth grade of the same high school during the years 2016–2017 (first control group), 2018–2019 (second control group) and 2020–2021 (lockdown group) took part in the present study. Results: The percentage of overweight and obese students, according to body mass index, increased in males from 16.0% (2016–2017) and 14.6% (2018–2019), to 36.7% in 2020–2021 (p < 0.01), and in females from 8.6% (2016–2017) and 7.0% (2016–2017), to 25.6% in 2020–2021 (p < 0.01). Lower body fitness, as assessed by jumping, sprinting and agility tests, was impaired for both males and females after the lockdown compared with the 2016–2017 and 2018–2019 cohorts (vertical jumps: 10.4–15.1%; p < 0.01; d = 0.58–1.01, 30 m sprint: 3.7–4.9%; p < 0.01; d = 0.62–0.74; 505 agility test: from 6.1% to 9.4%; p < 0.01; d = 0.80–1.04). However, flexibility and performance in upper-body fitness tests (handgrip maximum isometric strength and medicine ball throws with different loads) was significantly reduced only in males after the lockdown (p < 0.05 to 0.01). Conclusions: These results suggest that a five-month lockdown negative influenced the physical fitness of adolescent students. Notably, greater reductions were observed in upper body strength, power and flexibility in males than in females. These results highlight the need to maintain strength, power and body mass during long periods of inactivity in adolescent populations.
Spanish Adaptation of the Overall Anxiety and Depression Severity and Impairment Scales in University Students
Authors: Osma Jorge , Martínez-Loredo Víctor , Díaz-García Amanda , Quilez-Orden Alba , Peris-Baquero Óscar
Published: December 2021

The lifetime prevalence of emotional disorders in Spain is 4.1% for anxiety and 5.2% for depression, increasing among university students. Considering the scarcity of screenings with adequate psychometric properties, this study aims to explore the validity evidence of the Overall Anxiety/Depression Severity and Impairment Scales (OASIS and ODSIS). A total of 382 university students from the general population were assessed on anxiety and depressive symptoms, as well as quality of life. The one-dimensional structure of both the OASIS and ODSIS explained 87.53% and 90.60% of variance, with excellent internal consistency (α = 0.94 and 0.95, respectively) and optimal cut-offs of 4 and 5, respectively. Both scales show a significant moderate association with other measures of anxiety, depression and quality of life. The OASIS and ODSIS have shown good reliability and sound validity evidence that recommend their use for the assessment and early detection of anxiety and depressive symptoms, and associated quality of life impairment in Spanish youth.
Expiration-Day Effects of Index Futures in a Frontier Market: The Case of Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange
Authors: Nguyen Anh Thi Kim , Truong Loc Dong , Friday H. Swint
Published: December 2021

This study employs OLS, GARCH and EGARCH regression models to test the expiration-day effects of index stock futures on market returns, volatility and trading volume for the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange (HOSE). Data used in this study is from a daily return series of the VN30-Index for the period from 10August 2017 through 30 June 2020. The results derived from GARCH(1,1) and EGARCH(1,1) models consistently confirm that Index futures expiration-day effects on market returns exists in the HOSE. Specifically, the average market return for expiration days is significantly lower than other trading days, by 0.13% at the 5% level of significance. However, the results obtained from the regression models indicate that the expiration-day has no impact on market volatility and trading volume.
Polypropylene Graft Poly(methyl methacrylate) Graft Poly(N-vinylimidazole) as a Smart Material for pH-Controlled Drug Delivery
Authors: López-Saucedo Felipe , López-Barriguete Jesús Eduardo , Flores-Rojas Guadalupe Gabriel , Gómez-Dorantes Sharemy , Bucio Emilio
Published: December 2021

Surface modification of polypropylene (PP) films was achieved using gamma-irradiation-induced grafting to provide an adequate surface capable of carrying glycopeptide antibiotics. The copolymer was obtained following a versatile two-step route; pristine PP was exposed to gamma rays and grafted with methyl methacrylate (MMA), and afterward, the film was grafted with N-vinylimidazole (NVI) by simultaneous irradiation. Characterization included Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscope (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and physicochemical analysis of swelling and contact angle. The new material (PP-g-MMA)-g-NVI was loaded with vancomycin to quantify the release by UV-vis spectrophotometry at different pH. The surface of (PP-g-MMA)-g-NVI exhibited pH-responsiveness and moderate hydrophilicity, which are suitable properties for controlled drug release.
Post-Ischemic Neurodegeneration of the Hippocampus Resembling Alzheimer’s Disease Proteinopathy
Authors: Pluta Ryszard , Januszewski Sławomir , Czuczwar Stanisław J.
Published: December 2021

In this review, we summarize, inter alia, the protein and gene changes associated with Alzheimer’s disease and their role in post-ischemic hippocampal neurodegeneration. In the hippocampus, studies have revealed dysregulation of the genes for the amyloid protein precursor metabolism and tau protein that is identical in nature to Alzheimer’s disease. Data indicate that amyloid and tau protein, derived from brain tissue and blood due to increased permeability of the blood–brain barrier after ischemia, play a key role in post-ischemic neurodegeneration of the hippocampus, with concomitant development of full-blown dementia. Thus, the knowledge of new neurodegenerative mechanisms that cause neurodegeneration of the hippocampus after ischemia, resembling Alzheimer’s disease proteinopathy, will provide the most important therapeutic development goals to date.
Pathomechanisms of Vascular Depression in Older Adults
Authors: Jellinger Kurt A.
Published: December 2021

Depression in older individuals is a common complex mood disorder with high comorbidity of both psychiatric and physical diseases, associated with high disability, cognitive decline, and increased mortality The factors predicting the risk of late-life depression (LLD) are incompletely understood. The reciprocal relationship of depressive disorder and age- and disease-related processes has generated pathogenic hypotheses and provided various treatment options. The heterogeneity of depression complicates research into the underlying pathogenic cascade, and factors involved in LLD considerably differ from those involved in early life depression. Evidence suggests that a variety of vascular mechanisms, in particular cerebral small vessel disease, generalized microvascular, and endothelial dysfunction, as well as metabolic risk factors, including diabetes, and inflammation that may induce subcortical white and gray matter lesions by compromising fronto–limbic and other important neuronal networks, may contribute to the development of LLD. The “vascular depression” hypothesis postulates that cerebrovascular disease or vascular risk factors can predispose, precipitate, and perpetuate geriatric depression syndromes, based on their comorbidity with cerebrovascular lesions and the frequent development of depression after stroke. Vascular burden is associated with cognitive deficits and a specific form of LLD, vascular depression, which is marked by decreased white matter integrity, executive dysfunction, functional disability, and poorer response to antidepressive therapy than major depressive disorder without vascular risk factors. Other pathogenic factors of LLD, such as neurodegeneration or neuroimmune regulatory dysmechanisms, are briefly discussed. Treatment planning should consider a modest response of LLD to antidepressants, while vascular and metabolic factors may provide promising targets for its successful prevention and treatment. However, their effectiveness needs further investigation, and intervention studies are needed to assess which interventions are appropriate and effective in clinical practice.
Evaluation of the Relationships between Intestinal Regional Lymph Nodes and Immune Responses in Viral Infections in Children
Authors: Aoki Yayoi , Ikeda Tomoya , Tani Naoto , Watanabe Miho , Ishikawa Takaki
Published: December 2021

Viral infections increase the risk of developing allergies in childhood, and disruption of mucosal homeostasis is presumed to be involved. However, no study has reported a role for viral infections in such disruption. In this study, we clarified the mechanism of immunoglobulin A (IgA) overproduction in viral infections. Autopsies were performed on 33 pediatric cases, IgA and interferon (IFN)β levels were measured, and histopathological and immunohistochemical examinations were conducted. Furthermore, we cultured human cells and measured IFNβ and IgA levels to examine the effect of viral infections on IgA production. Blood IgA levels in viral infections were higher than in bacterial infections. Moreover, IFNβ levels in most viral cases were below the detection limit. Cell culture revealed increased IgA in gastrointestinal lymph nodes, especially in Peyer’s patches, due to enhanced IFNβ after viral stimulation. Conversely, respiratory regional lymph nodes showed enhanced IgA with no marked change in IFNβ. Overproduction of IgA, identified as an aberration of the immune system and resulting from excessive viral infection-induced IFNβ was observed in the intestinal regional lymph nodes, particularly in Peyer’s patches. Further, increased IgA without elevated IFNβ in the respiratory system suggested the possibility of a different mechanism from the gastrointestinal system.
Down-Regulation of miR-194-5p for Predicting Metastasis in Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Yen Yu-Ting , Yang Jou-Chun , Chang Jiun-Bo , Tsai Shih-Chang
Published: December 2021

MicroRNAs (miRNAs), as key negative regulators of gene expression, are closely related to tumor occurrence and progression. miR-194-5p (miR-194-1) has been shown to play a regulatory role in various cancers however, its biological function and mechanism of action in breast cancer have not yet been well explored. In this study, we use the UALCAN and LinkedOmics databases to analyze transcription expression in The Cancer Genome Atlas Breast Invasive Carcinoma (TCGA-BRCA). The epithelial-mesenchymal transition status of breast cancer cells was evaluated by wound-healing assay, trans-well assays, and gelatin zymography, while protein expression was assessed by Western blotting. miR-194-5p expression was found to be up-regulated in breast cancer clinical specimens but down-regulated in the triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell line MDA-MB-231 and breast cancer clinical specimens in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). miR-194-5p significantly inhibited the expression of the epithelial marker ZO-1 and increased the expression of mesenchymal markers, including ZEB-1 and vimentin, in MDA-MB-231 cells. miR-194-5p significantly reduced the gelatin-degrading activity of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and MMP-9 in zymography assays. In MDA-MB-231 cells and TCGA patient samples, ZEB-1 expression was significantly inversely correlated with miR-194-5p expression. High levels of miR-194-5p were associated with good overall survival. miR-194-5p regulates epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) in TNBC. Our findings suggest that miR-194-5p functions as a tumor biomarker in breast cancer, providing new insights for the study of breast cancer development and metastasis.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv Strain Increases the Frequency of CD3+TCR+ Macrophages and Affects Their Phenotype, but Not Their Migration Ability
Authors: Ramon-Luing Lucero A. , Carranza Claudia , Téllez-Navarrete Norma A. , Medina-Quero Karen , Gonzalez Yolanda , Torres Martha , Chavez-Galan Leslie
Published: December 2021

In mycobacterial infections, the number of cells from two newly discovered subpopulations of CD3+ myeloid cells are increased at the infection site; one type expresses the T cell receptor (CD3+TCRαβ+) and the other does not (CD3+TCRαβ−). The role of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) virulence in generating these subpopulations and the ability of these cells to migrate remains unclear. In this study, monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) infected in vitro with either a virulent (H37Rv) or an avirulent (H37Ra) Mtb strain were phenotypically characterized based on three MDM phenotypes (CD3−, CD3+TCRαβ+, and CD3+TCRαβ−); then, their migration ability upon Mtb infection was evaluated. We found no differences in the frequency of CD3+ MDMs at 24 h of infection with either Mtb strain. However, H37Rv infection increased the frequency of CD3+TCRαβ+ MDMs at a multiplicity of infection of 1 and altered the expression of CD1b, CD1c, and TNF on the surface of cells from both the CD3+ MDM subpopulations; it also modified the expression of CCR2, CXCR1, and CCR7, thus affecting CCL2 and IL-8 levels. Moreover, H37Rv infection decreased the migration ability of the CD3− MDMs, but not CD3+ MDMs. These results confirm that the CD3+ macrophage subpopulations express chemokine receptors that respond to chemoattractants, facilitating cell migration. Together, these data suggest that CD3+ MDMs are a functional subpopulation involved in the immune response against Mtb.
Interrogating the Behaviour of a Styryl Dye Interacting with a Mesoscopic 2D-MOF and Its Luminescent Vapochromic Sensing
Authors: di Nunzio Maria Rosaria , Gutiérrez Mario , Moreno José María , Corma Avelino , Díaz Urbano , Douhal Abderrazzak
Published: December 2021

In this contribution, we report on the solid-state-photodynamical properties and further applications of a low dimensional composite material composed by the luminescent trans-4-(dicyanomethylene)-2-methyl-6-(4-dimethylaminostyryl)-4H-pyran (DCM) dye interacting with a two-dimensional-metal organic framework (2D-MOF), Al-ITQ-HB. Three different samples with increasing concentration of DCM are synthesized and characterized. The broad UV-visible absorption spectra of the DCM/Al-ITQ-HB composites reflect the presence of different species of DCM molecules (monomers and aggregates). In contrast, the emission spectra are narrower and exhibit a bathochromic shift upon increasing the DCM concentration, in agreeance with the formation of adsorbed aggregates. Time-resolved picosecond (ps)-experiments reveal multi-exponential behaviors of the excited composites, further confirming the heterogeneous nature of the samples. Remarkably, DCM/Al-ITQ-HB fluorescence is sensitive to vapors of electron donor aromatic amine compounds like aniline, methylaniline, and benzylamine due to a H-bonding-induced electron transfer (ET) process from the analyte to the surface-adsorbed DCM. These findings bring new insights on the photobehavior of a well-known dye when interacting with a 2D-MOF and its possible application in sensing aniline derivatives.
Integrative Study of the Structural and Dynamical Properties of a KirBac3.1 Mutant: Functional Implication of a Highly Conserved Tryptophan in the Transmembrane Domain
Authors: Fagnen Charline , Bannwarth Ludovic , Oubella Iman , Zuniga Dania , Haouz Ahmed , Forest Eric , Scala Rosa , Bendahhou Saïd , De Zorzi Rita , Perahia David , Vénien-Bryan Catherine
Published: December 2021

ATP-sensitive potassium (K-ATP) channels are ubiquitously expressed on the plasma membrane of cells in several organs, including the heart, pancreas, and brain, and they govern a wide range of physiological processes. In pancreatic β-cells, K-ATP channels composed of Kir6.2 and SUR1 play a key role in coupling blood glucose and insulin secretion. A tryptophan residue located at the cytosolic end of the transmembrane helix is highly conserved in eukaryote and prokaryote Kir channels. Any mutation on this amino acid causes a gain of function and neonatal diabetes mellitus. In this study, we have investigated the effect of mutation on this highly conserved residue on a KirBac channel (prokaryotic homolog of mammalian Kir6.2). We provide the crystal structure of the mutant KirBac3.1 W46R (equivalent to W68R in Kir6.2) and its conformational flexibility properties using HDX-MS. In addition, the detailed dynamical view of the mutant during the gating was investigated using the in silico method. Finally, functional assays have been performed. A comparison of important structural determinants for the gating mechanism between the wild type KirBac and the mutant W46R suggests interesting structural and dynamical clues and a mechanism of action of the mutation that leads to the gain of function.
OMICS in Chronic Kidney Disease: Focus on Prognosis and Prediction
Authors: Provenzano Michele , Serra Raffaele , Garofalo Carlo , Michael Ashour , Crugliano Giuseppina , Battaglia Yuri , Ielapi Nicola , Bracale Umberto Marcello , Faga Teresa , Capitoli Giulia , Galimberti Stefania , Andreucci Michele
Published: December 2021

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients are characterized by a high residual risk for cardiovascular (CV) events and CKD progression. This has prompted the implementation of new prognostic and predictive biomarkers with the aim of mitigating this risk. The ‘omics’ techniques, namely genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and transcriptomics, are excellent candidates to provide a better understanding of pathophysiologic mechanisms of disease in CKD, to improve risk stratification of patients with respect to future cardiovascular events, and to identify CKD patients who are likely to respond to a treatment. Following such a strategy, a reliable risk of future events for a particular patient may be calculated and consequently the patient would also benefit from the best available treatment based on their risk profile. Moreover, a further step forward can be represented by the aggregation of multiple omics information by combining different techniques and/or different biological samples. This has already been shown to yield additional information by revealing with more accuracy the exact individual pathway of disease.
Novel Insights into Anthocyanin Metabolism and Molecular Characterization of Associated Genes in Sugarcane Rinds Using the Metabolome and Transcriptome
Authors: Rao Muhammad Junaid , Duan Mingzheng , Yang Mingchong , Fan Hongzeng , Shen Songhao , Hu Lihua , Wang Lingqiang
Published: December 2021

Saccharum officinarum (sugarcane) is the fifth major cultivated crop around the world. Sugarcane rind is a promising source for anthocyanin pigments; however, limited information is available on the anthocyanin and its biosynthesis in sugarcane rinds. In this study, we have quantified 49 compounds including 6 flavonoids and 43 anthocyanins in the rind of 6 sugarcane cultivars by using LCMS/MS approach. Thirty of them were quantified for the first time in sugarcane. The 43 anthocyanins included 10 cyanidin (Cya), 11 pelargonidin (Pel), 9 peonidin (Peo), 5 malvidin (Mal), 4 delphinidin (Del), and 4 petunidin (Pet) metabolites. High contents of Cya derivatives were observed in the rind of YT71/210 (dark purple rind), such as cya-3-O-(6-O-malonyl)-glu 1283.3 µg/g and cya-3-O-glu 482.67 µg/g followed by ROC22 (red rind) 821.3 µg/g and 409 µg/g, respectively, whereas the YT93/159 (green rind) showed a minimum level of these compounds. Among six cultivars, ROC22 rind has high levels of Peo derivatives such as peo-3-O-glu (197 µg/g), peo-3-O-(6-O-malonyl)-glu (69 µg/g) and peo-3-O-(6-O-p-coumaryl)-glu (55.17 µg/g). The gene expression analysis revealed that some genes, including a MYB(t) gene, were highly associated with the color phenotype. Thus, we cloned and overexpressed the gene in Arabidopsis and found the pinkish brown color in the hypocotyl of all transgenic lines compared with the wild type. Hence, we have quantified a wide range of anthocyanins in major sugarcane cultivars, reported many new anthocyanins for the first time, and concluded that Cya and Peo derivatives are the major contributing factor of dissimilar colors in sugarcane. The finding and the verification of a novel MYB gene involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis have demonstrated that our study was very valuable for gene discovery and genetic improvement of sugarcane cultivars to harvest high anthocyanin contents.
Dietary Interventions Ameliorate Infectious Colitis by Restoring the Microbiome and Promoting Stem Cell Proliferation in Mice
Authors: Ahmed Ishfaq , Yusuf Kafayat , Roy Badal C. , Stubbs Jason , Anant Shrikant , Attard Thomas M. , Sampath Venkatesh , Umar Shahid
Published: December 2021

Decreases in short-chain-fatty-acids (SCFAs) are linked to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Yet, the mechanisms through which SCFAs promote wound healing, orchestrated by intestinal stem cells, are poorly understood. We discovered that, in mice with Citrobacter rodentium (CR)-induced infectious colitis, treatment with Pectin and Tributyrin diets reduced the severity of colitis by restoring Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes and by increasing mucus production. RNA-seq in young adult mouse colon (YAMC) cells identified higher expression of Lgr4, Lgr6, DCLK1, Muc2, and SIGGIR after Butyrate treatment. Lineage tracing in CR-infected Lgr5-EGFP-IRES-CreERT2/ROSA26-LacZ (Lgr5-R) mice also revealed an expansion of LacZ-labeled Lgr5(+) stem cells in the colons of both Pectin and Tributyrin-treated mice compared to control. Interestingly, gut microbiota was required for Pectin but not Tributyrin-induced Lgr5(+) stem cell expansion. YAMC cells treated with sodium butyrate exhibited increased Lgr5 promoter reporter activity due to direct Butyrate binding with Lgr5 at −4.0 Kcal/mol, leading to thermal stabilization. Upon ChIP-seq, H3K4me3 increased near Lgr5 transcription start site that contained the consensus binding motif for a transcriptional activator of Lgr5 (SPIB). Thus, a multitude of effects on gut microbiome, differential gene expression, and/or expansion of Lgr5(+) stem cells seem to underlie amelioration of colitis following dietary intervention.
Effect of Everolimus versus Bone Marrow-Derived Stem Cells on Glomerular Injury in a Rat Model of Glomerulonephritis: A Preventive, Predictive and Personalized Implication
Authors: Zedan Mohamed M. , Mansour Ahmed K. , Bakr Ashraf A. , Sobh Mohamed A. , Khodadadi Hesam , Salles Evila Lopes , Alhashim Abdulmohsin , Baban Babak , Golubnitschaja Olga , Elmarakby Ahmed A.
Published: December 2021

Glomerular endothelial injury and effectiveness of glomerular endothelial repair play a crucial role in the progression of glomerulonephritis. Although the potent immune suppressive everolimus is increasingly used in renal transplant patients, adverse effects of its chronic use have been reported clinically in human glomerulonephritis and experimental renal disease. Recent studies suggest that progenitor stem cells could enhance glomerular endothelial repair with minimal adverse effects. Increasing evidence supports the notion that stem cell therapy and regenerative medicine can be effectively used in pathological conditions within the predictive, preventive and personalized medicine (PPPM) paradigm. In this study, using an experimental model of glomerulonephritis, we tested whether bone marrow-derived stem cells (BMDSCs) could provide better effect over everolimus in attenuating glomerular injury and improving the repair process in a rat model of glomerulonephritis. Anti-Thy1 glomerulonephritis was induced in male Sprague Dawley rats by injection of an antibody against Thy1, which is mainly expressed on glomerular mesangial cells. Additional groups of rats were treated with the immunosuppressant everolimus daily after the injection of anti-Thy1 or injected with single bolus dose of BMDSCs after one week of injection of anti-Thy1 (n = 6–8). Nine days after injection of anti-Thy1, glomerular albumin permeability and albuminuria were significantly increased when compared to control group (p < 0.05). Compared to BMDSCs, everolimus was significantly effective in attenuating glomerular injury, nephrinuria and podocalyxin excretion levels as well as in reducing inflammatory responses and apoptosis. Our findings suggest that bolus injection of BMDSCs fails to improve glomerular injury whereas everolimus slows the progression of glomerular injury in Anti-Thy-1 induced glomerulonephritis. Thus, everolimus could be used at the early stage of glomerulonephritis, suggesting potential implications of PPPM in the treatment of progressive renal injury.
Microporous Carbon and Carbon/Metal Composite Materials Derived from Bio-Benzoxazine-Linked Precursor for CO2 Capture and Energy Storage Applications
Authors: Mohamed Mohamed Gamal , Samy Maha Mohamed , Mansoure Tharwat Hassan , Li Chia-Jung , Li Wen-Cheng , Chen Jung-Hui , Zhang Kan , Kuo Shiao-Wei
Published: December 2021

There is currently a pursuit of synthetic approaches for designing porous carbon materials with selective CO2 capture and/or excellent energy storage performance that significantly impacts the environment and the sustainable development of circular economy. In this study we prepared a new bio-based benzoxazine (AP-BZ) in high yield through Mannich condensation of apigenin, a naturally occurring phenol, with 4-bromoaniline and paraformaldehyde. We then prepared a PA-BZ porous organic polymer (POP) through Sonogashira coupling of AP-BZ with 1,3,6,8-tetraethynylpyrene (P-T) in the presence of Pd(PPh3)4. In situ Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry revealed details of the thermal polymerization of the oxazine rings in the AP-BZ monomer and in the PA-BZ POP. Next, we prepared a microporous carbon/metal composite (PCMC) in three steps: Sonogashira coupling of AP-BZ with P-T in the presence of a zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF-67) as a directing hard template, affording a PA-BZ POP/ZIF-67 composite; etching in acetic acid; and pyrolysis of the resulting PA-BZ POP/metal composite at 500 °C. Powder X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) measurements revealed the properties of the as-prepared PCMC. The PCMC material exhibited outstanding thermal stability (Td10 = 660 °C and char yield = 75 wt%), a high BET surface area (1110 m2 g–1), high CO2 adsorption (5.40 mmol g–1 at 273 K), excellent capacitance (735 F g–1), and a capacitance retention of up to 95% after 2000 galvanostatic charge–discharge (GCD) cycles; these characteristics were excellent when compared with those of the corresponding microporous carbon (MPC) prepared through pyrolysis of the PA-BZ POP precursors with a ZIF-67 template at 500 °C.
Endogenous Polyamines and Ethylene Biosynthesis in Relation to Germination of Osmoprimed Brassica napus Seeds under Salt Stress
Authors: Lechowska Katarzyna , Wojtyla Łukasz , Quinet Muriel , Kubala Szymon , Lutts Stanley , Garnczarska Małgorzata
Published: December 2021

Currently, seed priming is reported as an efficient and low-cost approach to increase crop yield, which could not only promote seed germination and improve plant growth state but also increase abiotic stress tolerance. Salinity represents one of the most significant abiotic stresses that alters multiple processes in plants. The accumulation of polyamines (PAs) in response to salt stress is one of the most remarkable plant metabolic responses. This paper examined the effect of osmopriming on endogenous polyamine metabolism at the germination and early seedling development of Brassica napus in relation to salinity tolerance. Free, conjugated and bound polyamines were analyzed, and changes in their accumulation were discussed with literature data. The most remarkable differences between the corresponding osmoprimed and unprimed seeds were visible in the free (spermine) and conjugated (putrescine, spermidine) fractions. The arginine decarboxylase pathway seems to be responsible for the accumulation of PAs in primed seeds. The obvious impact of seed priming on tyramine accumulation was also demonstrated. Moreover, the level of ethylene increased considerably in seedlings issued from primed seeds exposed to salt stress. It can be concluded that the polyamines are involved in creating the beneficial effect of osmopriming on germination and early growth of Brassica napus seedlings under saline conditions through moderate changes in their biosynthesis and accumulation.
New Insights into the Efficacy of Aspalathin and Other Related Phytochemicals in Type 2 Diabetes—A Review
Authors: Muller Christo J. F. , Joubert Elizabeth , Chellan Nireshni , Miura Yutaka , Yagasaki Kazumi
Published: December 2021

In the pursuit of bioactive phytochemicals as a therapeutic strategy to manage metabolic risk factors for type 2 diabetes (T2D), aspalathin, C-glucosyl dihydrochalcone from rooibos (Aspalathus linearis), has received much attention, along with its C-glucosyl flavone derivatives and phlorizin, the apple O-glucosyl dihydrochalcone well-known for its antidiabetic properties. We provided context for dietary exposure by highlighting dietary sources, compound stability during processing, bioavailability and microbial biotransformation. The review covered the role of these compounds in attenuating insulin resistance and enhancing glucose metabolism, alleviating gut dysbiosis and associated oxidative stress and inflammation, and hyperuricemia associated with T2D, focusing largely on the literature of the past 5 years. A key focus of this review was on emerging targets in the management of T2D, as highlighted in the recent literature, including enhancing of the insulin receptor and insulin receptor substrate 1 signaling via protein tyrosine phosphatase inhibition, increasing glycolysis with suppression of gluconeogenesis by sirtuin modulation, and reducing renal glucose reabsorption via sodium-glucose co-transporter 2. We conclude that biotransformation in the gut is most likely responsible for enhancing therapeutic effects observed for the C-glycosyl parent compounds, including aspalathin, and that these compounds and their derivatives have the potential to regulate multiple factors associated with the development and progression of T2D.
Applying Synthetic Biology with Rational Design to Nature’s Greatest Challenges: Bioengineering Immunotherapeutics for the Treatment of Glioblastoma
Authors: Mashouf Leila A. , Wu Janet Y. , Shah Pavan , Kannapadi Nivedha , Lim Michael
Published: December 2021

Improvements in bioengineering methodology and tools have allowed for significant progress in the development of therapeutics and diagnostics in medicine, as well as progress in many other diverse industries, such as materials manufacturing, food and agriculture, and consumer goods. Glioblastomas present significant challenges to adequate treatment, in part due to their immune-evasive and manipulative nature. Rational-design bioengineering using novel scaffolds, biomaterials, and inspiration across disciplines can push the boundaries in treatment development to create effective therapeutics for glioblastomas. In this review, we will discuss bioengineering strategies currently applied across diseases and disciplines to inspire creative development for GBM immunotherapies.
Athlete’s Heart in Elite Biathlon, Nordic Cross—Country and Ski-Mountaineering Athletes: Cardiac Adaptions Determined Using Echocardiographic Data
Authors: Zimmermann Paul , Moser Othmar , Eckstein Max L. , Wüstenfeld Jan , Schöffl Volker , Zimmermann Lukas , Braun Martin , Schöffl Isabelle
Published: December 2021

Twelve world elite Biathlon (Bia), ten Nordic Cross Country (NCC) and ten ski-mountaineering (Ski-Mo) athletes were evaluated for pronounced echocardiographic physiological cardiac remodeling as a primary aim of our descriptive preliminary report. In this context, sports-related cardiac remodeling was analyzed by performing two-dimensional echocardiography including speckle tracking analysis as left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LV-GLS). A multicenter retrospective analysis of echocardiographic data was performed in 32 elite world winter sports athletes, which were obtained between 2020 and 2021 during the annual medical examination. The matched data of the elite world winter sports athletes (14 women, 18 male athletes, age: 18–35 years) were compared for different echocardiographic parameters. Significant differences could be revealed for left ventricular systolic function (LV-EF, p = 0.0001), left ventricular mass index (LV Mass index, p = 0.0078), left atrial remodeling by left atrial volume index (LAVI, p = 0.0052), and LV-GLS (p = 0.0003) between the three professional winter sports disciplines. This report provides new evidence that resting measures of cardiac structure and function in elite winter sport professionals can identify sport specific remodeling of the left heart, against the background of training schedule and training frequency.
Liver Injury and Elevated FIB-4 Define a High-Risk Group in Patients with COVID-19
Authors: Crisan Dana , Avram Lucretia , Grapa Cristiana , Dragan Alexandra , Radulescu Dan , Crisan Sorin , Grosu Alin , Militaru Valentin , Buzdugan Elena , Stoicescu Laurentiu , Radulescu Liliana , Ciovicescu Felix , Jivanescu Delia Bunea , Mocan Oana , Micu Bogdan , Donca Valer , Marinescu Luminita , Macarie Antonia , Rosu Marina , Nemes Andrada , Craciun Rares
Published: December 2021

Liver involvement in Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been widely documented. However, data regarding liver-related prognosis are scarce and heterogeneous. The current study aims to evaluate the role of abnormal liver tests and incidental elevations of non-invasive fibrosis estimators on the prognosis of hospitalized COVID-19 patients. We conducted a retrospective cohort study to investigate the impact of elevated liver tests, non-invasive fibrosis estimators (the Fibrosis-4 (FIB-4), Forns, APRI scores, and aspartate aminotransferase/alanine aminotransferase (AST/ALT) ratio), and the presence of computed tomography (CT)-documented liver steatosis on mortality in patients with moderate and severe COVID-19, with no prior liver disease history. A total of 370 consecutive patients were included, of which 289 patients (72.9%) had abnormal liver biochemistry on admission. Non-survivors had significantly higher FIB-4, Forns, APRI scores, and a higher AST/ALT ratio. On multivariate analysis, severe FIB-4 (exceeding 3.25) and elevated AST were independently associated with mortality. Severe FIB-4 had an area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) of 0.73 for predicting survival. The presence of steatosis was not associated with a worse outcome. Patients with abnormal liver biochemistry on arrival might be susceptible to a worse disease outcome. An FIB-4 score above the threshold of 3.25, suggestive of the presence of fibrosis, is associated with higher mortality in hospitalized COVID-19 patients.
COVID-19 in Elderly Patients Surgically Treated for Lower Limbs Fracture
Authors: Colombini Alessandra , Lombardo Michele Davide Maria , de Girolamo Laura , De Vecchi Elena , Giorgino Riccardo , Peretti Giuseppe Maria , Banfi Giuseppe , Mangiavini Laura
Published: December 2021

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic outbreak has posed new problems in the context of patients suffering from other diseases. In particular, musculoskeletal sequelae related to the state of debilitation associated with COVID-19 are important to consider in elderly patients undergoing surgery after lower limbs fracture, especially in the post-operative period. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether COVID-19 influenced biochemical parameter, recovery and mortality of surgically treated patients suffering from lower extremity fractures. Methods: Laboratory and clinical data of 30 patients were extrapolated and analyzed in the pre-operative and post-operative periods. Among these patients, 13 had COVID-19 infection (COVID-19 +), whereas 17 had no signs of COVID-19 infections (COVID-19 −). Long-term clinical and functional outcomes were also analyzed. Results: Lower calcium, slightly higher values of CRP and much higher values of CPK and AST were observed pre-operatively in COVID-19 + patients, who also showed higher prevalence of long-term sequelae than COVID-19 − patients. Conclusions: COVID-19 affects long-term outcome of elderly patients with lower limb fractures in a multifactorial way. First, the virus directly damages the muscle tissue. Secondly, the lung function impairment worsens the overall performance, making rehabilitation more challenging.
Review of Recent Offshore Wind Turbine Research and Optimization Methodologies in Their Design
Authors: Chen Jieyan , Kim Moo-Hyun
Published: December 2021

As international efforts to address climate change grow, an increasing number of countries and companies have put forward a clear “net zero” goal through accelerated renewable-energy development. As a renewable energy source, offshore wind energy has received particular attention from many countries and is a highly active research area. However, the design of offshore wind turbine structures faces challenges due to the large and complex design parameter space as well as different operational requirements and environmental conditions. Advanced optimization technology must be employed to address these challenges. Using an efficient optimization algorithm, it is possible to obtain optimized parameters for offshore wind turbine structures, balancing energy generation performance and the life of the floating wind turbine. This paper presents a review of the types and fundamental principles of several critical optimization technologies along with their application in the design process, with a focus on offshore wind turbine structures. It concludes with a discussion of the future prospects of optimization technology in offshore wind research.
Experimental and Numerical Studies on Fluid-Structure Interaction for Underwater Drop of a Stone-Breaking Crusher
Authors: Sohn Jung Min , Kim Ji Woo , Kim Sang Ho
Published: December 2021

There are many methods for crushing seabed rock such as a using a free-falling crusher, blasting, and chemical liquid expansion. Blasting and chemical liquid expansion can lead to environmental destruction, noise pollution, and civil complaints. Therefore, a free-falling crusher is generally recommended for use. Understanding the characteristics of a crusher in water and the impact force on the ground is helpful for designing a crusher and dredge work. In this study, drop tests of 50 and 70 ton crusher models that were scaled down by 15 times were investigated. The tests were conducted in a water basin by the Research Institute of Medium and Small Shipbuilding (RIMS) in Korea. Four water depths were considered with different falling locations: water surface and air. Moreover, a numerical study on Fluid-Structure Interaction (FSI) analysis for a free-falling crusher was conducted by applying the Arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian (ALE) element and the Grüneisen Equation of State (EoS) to fluid models. The crusher and ground were modeled as Lagrangian elements to estimate the impact force on the ground. Before comparing the crusher model, a free-falling sphere model was used to develop FSI technologies by comparing past Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and experimental results. Moreover, the recommended mesh size and fluid domain for FSI analysis are provided to achieve good results via convergence tests. Comparison between experimental and numerical methods demonstrated a similar tendency such that impact force increased at a higher depth. Certain numerical results agree with average values of experimental results; however, multiple numerical cases exhibit a moderate difference. This is because of angular rotation between the crusher and ground when the crusher hits the ground during experiments.
Evaluation of 2-[18F]-Fluorodeoxysorbitol PET Imaging in Preclinical Models of Aspergillus Infection
Authors: Lai Jianhao , Shah Swati , Knight Rekeya , Martinez-Orengo Neysha , Patel Reema , Mitchell Amelia , Wang Zeping , Basuli Falguni , Ordonez Alvaro A. , Jain Sanjay K. , Hammoud Dima A.
Published: December 2021

Despite increasing associated mortality and morbidity, the diagnosis of fungal infections, especially with Aspergillus fumigatus (A. fumigatus), remains challenging. Based on known ability of Aspergillus species to utilize sorbitol, we evaluated 2-[18F]-fluorodeoxysorbitol (FDS), a recently described Enterobacterales imaging ligand, in animal models of A. fumigatus infection, in comparison with 2-[18F]-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG). In vitro assays showed slightly higher 3H-sorbitol uptake by live compared with heat-killed A. fumigatus. However, this was 10.6-fold lower than E. coli uptake. FDS positron emission tomography (PET) imaging of A. fumigatus pneumonia showed low uptake in infected lungs compared with FDG (0.290 ± 0.030 vs. 8.416 ± 0.964 %ID/mL). This uptake was higher than controls (0.098 ± 0.008 %ID/mL) and minimally higher than lung inflammation (0.167 ± 0.007 %ID/mL). In the myositis models, FDS uptake was highest in live E. coli infections. Uptake was low in A. fumigatus myositis model and only slightly higher in live compared with the heat-killed side. In conclusion, we found low uptake of 3H-sorbitol and FDS by A. fumigatus cultures and infection models compared with E. coli, likely due to the need for induction of sorbitol dehydrogenase by sorbitol. Our findings do not support FDS as an Aspergillus imaging agent. At this point, FDS remains more selective for imaging Gram-negative Enterobacterales.
Risk Factors and Treatment Outcome Analysis Associated with Second-Line Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis
Authors: Aaina Muralidhar , Venkatesh Kaliyaperumal , Usharani Brammacharry , Anbazhagi Muthukumar , Rakesh Gerard , Muthuraj Muthaiah
Published: December 2021

The present study aimed at analyzing the treatment outcomes and risk factors associated with fluoroquinolone drug resistance having mutations in the gyrA and gyrB genes. A total of 258 pulmonary tuberculosis samples with first-line drug-resistant (H, R, or HR) were subjected to GenoType MTBDRsl assay for the molecular detection of mutations. Among the 258 samples, 251 were drug-resistant tuberculosis and seven were sensitive to all first-line TB drugs. Out of 251 DR-TB cases, 42 cases were MDR TB, 200 were INH mono-resistant and nine cases were RIF mono-resistant tuberculosis. Out of 251 DR-TB cases performed with a MTBDRsl assay, 14 had Pre-XDR-FQ, one patient had pre-XDR-SLID, one had extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB) and 235 cases were sensitive to both FQ and SLID drugs. The study group had a mean average of 42.7 ± 16.4 years. The overall successful treatment outcomes among the MDR, INH mono-resistant, and pre-XRD patients were 70.6%, 82.0%, and 51%, respectively. The percentage of risk for the unfavorable outcomes in the pre-XDR, INH -mono-resistant, and XDR cases were 113.84% increased risk with RR 2.14; 95% CI 0.7821–5.8468. The independent risk factor associated with the unfavorable outcomes to failure was 77.78% increased risk with RR 1.78; 95% CI 0.3375–9.3655. Logistic regression analysis revealed that the percentage relative risk among MDR-TB patients for gender, male (RR: 1.85), age ≥ 61 years (RR: 1.96), and diabetics (RR: 1.05) were 84.62%, 95.83%, and 4.76%, respectively. The independent risk factors associated with INH mono-resistant cases of age 16–60 (RR: 1.86), ≥61 year (RR: 1.18), and treated cases (RR: 5.06). This study presaged the significant risk of INH mono-resistant, pre-XDR, and MDR among males, young adults, diabetics, and patients with previous treatment failure. Timely identification of high-risk patients will give pronounced advantages to control drug resistance tuberculosis diseases.
Effect of Space Flight Factor on Dormant Stages in Aquatic Organisms: A Review of International Space Station and Terrestrial Experiments
Authors: Alekseev Victor R. , Hwang Jiang-Shiou , Levinskikh Margarita A.
Published: December 2021

This work is a review of the experiments carried out in the Russian segment of the ISS (inside and outside) from 2005 to 2016 on the effect of the space flight factor on the resting stages of organisms. In outer space, ultraviolet, a wide range of high and low temperatures, cosmic radiation, altered gravity, modified electromagnetic field, vacuum, factors of technical origin, ultrasound, microwave radiation, etc. and their combination determine the damaging effect on living organisms. At the same time, biological dormancy, known in a wide range of bacteria, fungi, animals and plants, allows them to maintain the viability of their dormant stages in extreme conditions for a long time, which possibly allows them to survive during space flight. From 2005 to 2016, the resting stages (propagules) of micro- and multicellular organisms were tested on the ISS to assess their ability to survive after prolonged exposure to the conditions of open space and space flight. Among the more than 40 species studied, about a third were dormant stages of aquatic organisms (eggs of cyprinodont fish, daphnia embryos, resting eggs of fairy shrimps, tadpole shrimps, copepods and ostracods, diapausing larvae of dipterans, as well as resting cysts of algae). The experiments were carried out within the framework of four research programs: (1) inside the ISS with a limited set of investigated species (Akvarium program); (2) outside the station in outer space without exposure to ultraviolet radiation (Biorisk program); (3) under modified space conditions simulating the surface of Mars (Expose program); and (4) in an Earth-based laboratory where single-factor experiments were carried out with neutron radiation, modified magnetic field, microwave radiation and ultrasound. Fundamentally new data were obtained on the stability of the resting stages of aquatic organisms exposed to the factors of the space environment, which modified the idea of the possibility of bringing Earth life forms to other planets with spacecraft and astronauts. It also can be used for creating an extraterrestrial artificial ecosystem and searching for extraterrestrial life.
Sustained Delivery of Lactoferrin Using Poloxamer Gels for Local Bone Regeneration in a Rat Calvarial Defect Model
Authors: Park Young Eun , Chandramouli Kaushik , Watson Maureen , Zhu Mark , Callon Karen E. , Tuari Donna , Abdeltawab Hani , Svirskis Darren , Musson David Shaun , Sharma Manisha , Cornish Jillian
Published: December 2021

Lactoferrin (LF) is a multifunctional milk glycoprotein that promotes bone regeneration. Local delivery of LF at the bone defect site is a promising approach for enhancement of bone regeneration, but efficient systems for sustained local delivery are still largely missing. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential of the poloxamers for sustained delivery of LF to enhance local bone regeneration. The developed LF/poloxamer formulations were liquid at room temperature (20 °C) transforming to a sustained releasing gel depot at body temperature (37 °C). In vitro release studies demonstrated an initial burst release (~50%), followed by slower release of LF for up to 72 h. Poloxamer, with and without LF, increased osteoblast viability at 72 h (p < 0.05) compared to control, and the immune response from THP-1 cells was mild when compared to the suture material. In rat calvarial defects, the LF/poloxamer group had lower bone volume than the controls (p = 0.0435). No difference was observed in tissue mineral density and lower bone defect coverage scores (p = 0.0267) at 12 weeks after surgery. In conclusion, LF/poloxamer formulations support cell viability and do not induce an unfavourable immune response; however, LF delivery via the current formulation of LF200/poloxamer gel did not demonstrate enhanced bone regeneration and was not compatible with the rat calvarial defect model.