bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Pathophysiological Roles of Regulatory T Cells in the Early Phase of Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Kobayashi Satomi , Nagafuchi Yasuo , Shoda Hirofumi , Fujio Keishi
Published: May 2022

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease that is characterized by vascular damage and fibrosis. Both clinical manifestations and immunological disturbances are diverse according to the disease duration. Particularly, changes in immunological processes are prominent in the early phase of SSc. The orchestration of several subsets of immune cells promotes autoimmune responses and inflammation, and eventually stimulates pro-fibrotic processes. Many reports have indicated that CD4+T cells play pivotal roles in pathogenesis in the early phase of SSc. In particular, the pathogenic roles of regulatory T (Treg) cells have been investigated. Although the results were controversial, recent reports suggested an increase of Treg cells in the early phase of SSc patients. Treg cells secrete transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), which promotes myofibroblast activation and fibrosis. In addition, the dysfunction of Treg cells in the early phase of SSc was reported, which results in the development of autoimmunity and inflammation. Notably, Treg cells have the plasticity to convert to T-helper17 (Th17) cells under pro-inflammatory conditions. Th17 cells secrete IL-17A, which could also promote myofibroblast transformation and fibrosis and contributes to vasculopathy, although the issue is still controversial. Our recent transcriptomic comparison between the early and late phases of SSc revealed a clear difference of gene expression patterns only in Treg cells. The gene signature of an activated Treg cell subpopulation was expanded in the early phase of SSc and the oxidative phosphorylation pathway was enhanced, which can promote Th17 differentiation. And this result was accompanied by the increase in Th17 cells frequency. Therefore, an imbalance between Treg and Th17 cells could also have an important role in the pathogenesis of the early phase of SSc. In this review, we outlined the roles of Treg cells in the early phase of SSc, summarizing the data of both human and mouse models. The contributions of Treg cells to autoimmunity, vasculopathy, and fibrosis were revealed, based on the dysfunction and imbalance of Treg cells. We also referred to the potential development in treatment strategies in SSc.
Condensed Tannins Improve Glycolipid Metabolism but Induce Liver Injury of Chinese Seabass (Lateolabrax maculatus)
Authors: Peng Kai , Chen Bing , Zhao Hongxia , Wang Yuxi , Huang Wen
Published: May 2022

A 63-day feeding trial with 640 juvenile L. maculatus was conducted to assess the effects of dietary CT on serum metabolites, antioxidant and immune response, liver histomorphology and glycometabolism enzyme activities of fish. Four diets were formulated to contain 0 (T1), 1 (T2), 2 (T3), and 2 g/kg of CT plus 4 g/kg of polyethylene glycol (PEG) (T4). PEG specifically binds with CT to neutralize CT activity. Fish were randomly distributed into 16 tanks (4 tanks per group and 40 fish per tank) and were fed to apparent satiation twice daily. Results indicated that fish fed T2 and T3 had lower (P<0.05) concentrations of serum albumin, total cholesterol and triacylglycerol, but higher (P<0.05) alanine aminotransferase activity than T1 and T4. T3 had lower (P<0.05) serum glucose but higher (P<0.05) insulin concentrations than other groups. Fish fed T2 and T3 had higher (P<0.05) liver superoxide dismutase, catalase, lysozyme and immune globulin M than T1 and T4. Compared with T1 and T4, hepatocytes in T2 and T3 were shown to have obvious vacuolar degeneration along with different degree of inflammatory cell infiltration. Fish fed T2 and T3 had higher (P<0.05) values of eosinophilic infiltrate and necrosis and greater (P<0.05) pyruvate kinase, but lower (P<0.05) glucokinase activities than those of fish fed T1 and T4. All parameters were similar (P>0.05) between T1 and T4. In summary, dietary CT up to 2 g/kg reduced serum lipid and glucose concentrations, enhanced liver antioxidant and immune response, improved glucose utilization but of L. maculatus. CT induced liver injury of L. maculatus which provided a caution for its application in aquaculture.
Enhancing the Antibiofilm Activity of β-1,3-Glucanase-Functionalized Nanoparticles Loaded With Amphotericin B Against Candida albicans Biofilm
Authors: Tan Yulong , Ma Su , Ding Ting , Ludwig Roland , Lee Jintae , Xu Jiaman
Published: May 2022

Candida biofilm-related infections cause increased morbidity and mortality in patients with a reduced immune response. Traditional antifungal therapies have proven to be insufficient as the biofilm matrix acts as a perfusion barrier. Thus, novel methods are required to improve drug delivery and kill Candida within the biofilm. In this study, chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs) loaded with Amphotericin B (AMB), which were functionalized with β-1,3-glucanase (Gls), were fabricated (CSNPs-AMB-Gls), and their antibiofilm activity against Candida albicans biofilm was evaluated in vitro. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) were employed to examine biofilm architecture and cell viability. CSNPs-AMB-Gls inhibited planktonic cell growth and biofilm formation effectively and exhibited the highest efficacy on the removal of a mature biofilm than free AMB or CSNPs-AMB. The created nanoparticles (NPs) were found to penetrate the biofilm so as to directly interfere with the cells inside and disassemble the biofilm matrix. CSNPs-AMB-Gls could also eradicate biofilms from clinical isolates. These results suggest the potential applicability of CSNPs-AMB-Gls for the treatment of Candida biofilm-related infections.
Genetic Code Engineering by Natural and Unnatural Base Pair Systems for the Site-Specific Incorporation of Non-Standard Amino Acids Into Proteins
Authors: Kimoto Michiko , Hirao Ichiro
Published: May 2022

Amino acid sequences of proteins are encoded in nucleic acids composed of four letters, A, G, C, and T(U). However, this four-letter alphabet coding system limits further functionalities of proteins by the twenty letters of amino acids. If we expand the genetic code or develop alternative codes, we could create novel biological systems and biotechnologies by the site-specific incorporation of non-standard amino acids (or unnatural amino acids, unAAs) into proteins. To this end, new codons and their complementary anticodons are required for unAAs. In this review, we introduce the current status of methods to incorporate new amino acids into proteins by in vitro and in vivo translation systems, by focusing on the creation of new codon-anticodon interactions, including unnatural base pair systems for genetic alphabet expansion.
Long Non-Coding RNA AP000695.2 Acts as a Novel Prognostic Biomarker and Regulates the Cell Growth and Migration of Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Wang Chunyan , Guo Jishu , Jiang Rongyan , Wang Chenyang , Pan Chenglong , Nie Zhi , Jiang Xiulin
Published: May 2022

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are tumor-associated biological molecules and have been found to be implicated in the progression of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). LncRNA-AP000695.2 (ENSG00000248538) is a long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) that is widely increased in many tumor types including lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). However, the aberrant expression profile, clinical significance, and biological function of AP000695.2 in human lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) need to be further investigated. This study mines key prognostic AP000695.2 and elucidates its potential role and molecular mechanism in regulating the proliferation and metastasis of LUAD. Here, we discovered that AP000695.2 was significantly upregulated in lung adenocarcinoma tissues compared with healthy adjacent lung tissue and higher in LUAD cell lines than in normal human bronchial epithelial cell lines. A higher expression of AP000695.2 was positively correlated with aggressive clinicopathological characteristics, and AP000695.2 served as an independent prognostic indicator for the overall survival, disease-free survival, and progression-free survival in patients with LUAD. Receiver operating curve (ROC) analysis revealed the significant diagnostic ability of AP000695.2 (AUC = 0.838). Our in vivo data confirmed that AP000695.2 promotes the proliferation, migration, and invasion of LUAD cells. GSEA results suggested that AP000695.2 co-expressed genes were mainly enriched in immune-related biological processes such as JAK-STAT signaling pathway and toll-like receptor signaling pathway. Single-sample GSEA analysis showed that AP000695.2 is correlated with tumor-infiltrating immune cells in lung adenocarcinoma. Our findings confirmed that AP000695.2 was involved in the progression of lung adenocarcinoma, providing a novel prognostic indicator and promising diagnostic biomarker in the future.
COVID-19 and the National Lockdown: How Food Choice and Dietary Habits Changed for Families in the United Kingdom
Authors: Scott L. , Ensaff H.
Published: May 2022

COVID-19 changed the way families in the UK live, with as yet uncertain impacts to food choice and dietary habits. This study sought to explore food-related experiences and changes to behavior of families with children, during the pandemic. Semi-structured one-to-one interviews with parents (n= 20) and, separately, their children (n= 22; aged 8–10 years) were conducted. An inductive thematic approach was adopted for the data analysis, and four main themes emerged: commensality; elevated place of food in the home; snacking; and food shopping. Study findings highlighted several changes: some related to increased snacking and more takeaway food; others were more favorable, including spending more time together, increased home cooking, more efficient shopping practices and reduced food waste. Overall, an elevation of the place of food within the home was apparent, alongside enhanced food literacy, and some evidence of the relocalisation of food. This study contributes to the international literature on the impact of COVID-19 and national lockdowns on family lifestyle behaviors, specifically food choice and dietary habits; further research into the longer-term effects of COVID-19 on family food practices is required.
Practical Implementation of the BLW Method During the Expansion of the Infant Diet—A Study Among Polish Children
Authors: Białek-Dratwa Agnieszka , Szczepańska Elżbieta , Trzop Paulina , Grot Martina , Grajek Mateusz , Kowalski Oskar
Published: May 2022

The aim of the study was to verify the knowledge of mothers of children under 3 years of age about the Baby Led Weaning (BLW) feeding model and their practical implementation of this method. The study involved 761 mothers and their children. After analysis of the inclusion and exclusion criterion, the information provided by women 699 aged 21–48 years was included in the final data analysis. In the study group, most children were breastfed for 6 months to 1 year (n = 256, 36.7%), 1 year to 2 years (n = 179, 25.6%) and over 2 years (n = 71, 10.2%). Starting dietary expansion before 17 weeks of age was implemented in 47 (6.7%) children, between and 17–26 weeks of age in 328 (46.9%) children, and after 26 weeks of age in 324 (46.3%) children. Feeding food and dishes from the family table was practiced by 518 (74.1%) mothers. Spoon-feeding was practiced by 529 (75.6%) children, 157 (22.4%) children were fed this way sometimes. Taking into account the above data, feeding with the BLW method was used in 170 children (24.2%). In the examined group of mothers the use of the BLW method in feeding their children, especially during diet expansion, was declared by 408 women (74.8%). The child's independent decision concerning what the child will eat and what is according to the BLW method is accepted by 434 (62.1%) mothers. Among the positive aspects of using the BLW method, the women surveyed indicated the child's independence, while among the disadvantages, the omnipresent mess and chaos when eating meals.
Uptake and Transport of Naringenin and Its Antioxidant Effects in Human Intestinal Epithelial Caco-2 Cells
Authors: Zhang Zhen-Dong , Tao Qi , Qin Zhe , Liu Xi-Wang , Li Shi-Hong , Bai Li-Xia , Yang Ya-Jun , Li Jian-Yong
Published: May 2022

Naringenin, a flavanone, has been reported for a wide range of pharmacological activities. However, there are few reports on the absorption, transport and antioxidant effects of naringenin. The study was to explore the uptake, transport and antioxidant effects of naringenin in vitro. Cell transmembrane resistance, lucifer yellow transmission rate, and alkaline phosphatase activity were used to evaluate the successful construction of cell model. The results showed that the absorption and transport of naringenin by Caco-2 cells were time- and concentration-dependent. Different temperatures (37 and 4°C) had a significant effect on the uptake and transport of naringenin. Verapamil, potent inhibitor of P-glycoprotein, significantly inhibit naringenin transport in Caco-2 cells. The results revealed that naringenin was a moderately absorbed biological macromolecule and can penetrate Caco-2 cells, mainly mediated by the active transport pathway involved in P-glycoprotein. At the same time, naringenin pretreatment could significantly increase the viability of H2O2-induced Caco-2 cells. Twenty four differential metabolites were identified based on cellular metabolite analysis, mainly including alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism, histidine metabolism, taurine and hypotaurine metabolism, pyruvate metabolism, purine metabolism, arginine biosynthesis, citrate cycle, riboflavin metabolism, and D-glutamine and D-glutamate metabolism. We concluded that the transport of naringenin by Caco-2 cells is mainly involved in active transport mediated by P-glycoprotein and naringenin may play an important role in oxidative stress-induced intestinal diseases.
Effect of Static Magnetic Field Assisted Thawing on Physicochemical Quality and Microstructure of Frozen Beef Tenderloin
Authors: Jiang Junbo , Zhang Liyuan , Yao Jianbo , Cheng Yue , Chen Zhongrong , Zhao Gang
Published: May 2022

Although freezing is the most common and widespread way to preserve food for a long time, the accumulation of microstructural damage caused by ice crystal formation during freezing and recrystallization phenomena during thawing tends to degrade the quality of the product. Thus, the side effects of the above processes should be avoided as much as possible. To evaluate the effect of different magnetic field strength assisted thawing (MAT) on beef quality, the indicators associated with quality of MAT-treated (10–50 Gs) samples and samples thawed without an external magnetic field were compared. Results indicated that the thawing time was reduced by 21.5–40% after applying MAT. Meat quality results demonstrated that at appropriate magnetic field strengths thawing loss, TBARS values, cooking loss, and shear force were significantly decreased. Moreover, by protecting the microstructure of the muscle, MAT significantly increased the a∗ value and protein content. MAT treatment significantly improved the thawing efficiency and quality of frozen beef, indicating its promising application in frozen meat thawing.
Low Prevalence of ETV6::RUNX1 Fusion Gene in a Hispanic Population
Authors: Mata-Rocha Minerva , Rangel-López Angelica , Jimenez-Hernandez Elva , Nuñez-Enríquez Juan Carlos , Morales-Castillo Blanca Angélica , Sánchez-Escobar Norberto , Sepúlveda-Robles Omar Alejandro , Bravata-Alcántara Juan Carlos , Nájera-Cortés Alan Steve , Pérez-Saldivar María Luisa , Flores-Lujano Janet , Duarte-Rodríguez David Aldebarán , Oviedo de Anda Norma Angélica , Romero Tlalolini Maria de los Angeles , Alaez Verson Carmen , Martín-Trejo Jorge Alfonso , Muñoz Medina Jose Esteban , Gonzalez-Bonilla Cesar Raul , Hernandez Cueto Maria de los Angeles , Bekker-Méndez VC. , Jiménez-Morales Silvia , Medina-Sansón Aurora , Amador-Sánchez Raquel , Peñaloza-González José Gabriel , Torres-Nava José Refugio , Espinosa-Elizondo Rosa Martha , Cortés-Herrera Beatriz , Flores-Villegas Luz Victoria , Merino-Pasaye Laura Elizabeth , Gutierrez-Rivera Maria de Lourdes , Velazquez-Aviña Martha Margarita , Santillan-Juarez Jessica Denisse , Gurrola-Silva Alma , Hernández Echáurregui Gabriela Alicia , Hidalgo-Miranda Alfredo , Arellano Galindo José , Rosas-Vargas Haydeé , Mejía-Aranguré Juan Manuel
Published: May 2022

ETV6::RUNX1 is a genetic rearrangement of good prognosis in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). In Mexico, its prevalence is low in comparison with Caucasian populations. We developed a novel TaqMan one-step RT-qPCR approach to assess the prevalence of four genetic rearrangements in a cohort of Hispanic children with ALL from Mexico City. The prevalence of common fusion gene transcripts was as follows: TCF3::PBX1 7.7%; BCR::ABL1p190 3.3%; and KMT2A::AFF1 2.8%, and ETV6::RUNX1was observed with low prevalence (10.5%) in comparison to that reported for developed countries. This is consistent with previous findings on Mexican children with ALL and similar to those reported on children from Hispanic populations. The confirmation of a low prevalence of ETV6::RUNX1 in children of a Hispanic origin represents an advancement in the description of genetic factors of ALL in these populations.
Efficacy of the Combination of Teriparatide and Denosumab in the Treatment of Postmenopausal Osteoporosis: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sun Yang , Li Yue , Li Jiangbi , Xie Xiaoping , Gu Feng , Sui Zhenjiang , Zhang Ke , Yu Tiecheng
Published: May 2022

Aim: Evidence on the efficacy of combination treatment of teriparatide and denosumab for osteoporosis remains controversial. We aim to compare the efficacy between the combination treatment and monotherapy among patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Methods and results: We systematically searched PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science up to 26 January 2022, for relevant studies. This meta-analysis reviewed all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that reported on the combination treatment of teriparatide and denosumab in patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis. The articles were examined individually by two reviewers, and the relevant data was extracted. We combined weighted mean difference (WMD) for bone mineral density (BMD) using random- or fixed- effect models and conducted subgroup analyses. Sensitivity analyses were performed, and possible publication bias was also assessed. Overall, combination treatment enhanced the mean percent change of bone mineral density in lumbar spine than monotherapy (WMD = 2.91, 95%CI: 1.983.83; p = 0.00). And, combination treatment has been beneficial for enhancing the mean percent change of BMD in hip (WMD = 3.19, 95%CI: 2.25∼4.13; p = 0.00). There was no significant difference between combination treatment and monotherapy in terms of the adverse events (RR = 0.81, 95%CI: 0.45∼1.45; p = 0.472).

Conclusion: The meta-analysis indicates that combination treatment led to greater BMD at the lumbar spine and hip in comparison to monotherapy, without an increased incidence of adverse events.

Systematic Review Registration: (https://inplasy.com/), identifier (Inplasy Protocol 2734).
Altered Metabolomics in Bipolar Depression With Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Authors: Guo Xiang-Jie , Xiong Yan-Bing , Jia Yuan , Cui Xiao-Hong , Wu Wen-Ze , Tian Jun-Sheng , Yang Hong , Ren Yan
Published: May 2022

Objective

Although gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms are very common in patients with bipolar disorder (BD), Few studies have researched the pathomechanism behind these symptoms. In the present study, we aim at elucidate the pathomechanism of GI symptoms in BD through metabolomic analysis.

Method

BD patients were recruited from Shanxi Bethune Hospital that divided into two groups, each group assessed with the 24-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD-24) according to the presence or absence of GI symptoms. Healthy controls were recruited from the medical examination center of the same hospital. Differential metabolites were identified and further analyzed using Metabo Analyst 3.0 to identify associated metabolic pathways.

Results

There were significantly higher HAMD-24 scores in the GI symptoms group than that of non-GI symptoms group (p = 0.007). Based on metabolomic analysis results, we found that the common disturbances metabolic pathway of both two patients groups was ketone body metabolism, and the unique disturbances metabolic pathways of BD with GI symptoms were fatty acid biosynthesis and tyrosine metabolism, and these changes were independent of dietary habits.

Conclusion

BD patients with GI symptoms exhibited disturbances in fatty acid and tyrosine metabolism, perhaps suggesting that the GI symptoms in BD patients are related to disturbances of the gut microbiome. Both groups of patients jointly exhibit disturbances of ketone body metabolism, which may serve as a biomarker for the pathogenesis of BD patients.
Examining the Prediction of COVID-19 Contact-Tracing App Adoption Using an Integrated Model and Hybrid Approach Analysis
Authors: Alkhalifah Ali , Bukar Umar Ali
Published: May 2022

COVID-19 contact-tracing applications (CTAs) offer enormous potential to mitigate the surge of positive coronavirus cases, thus helping stakeholders to monitor high-risk areas. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) is among the countries that have developed a CTA known as the Tawakkalna application, to manage the spread of COVID-19. Thus, this study aimed to examine and predict the factors affecting the adoption of Tawakkalna CTA. An integrated model which comprises the technology acceptance model (TAM), privacy calculus theory (PCT), and task-technology fit (TTF) model was hypothesized. The model is used to understand better behavioral intention toward using the Tawakkalna mobile CTA. This study performed structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis as well as artificial neural network (ANN) analysis to validate the model, using survey data from 309 users of CTAs in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The findings revealed that perceived ease of use and usefulness has positively and significantly impacted the behavioral intention of Tawakkalna mobile CTA. Similarly, task features and mobility positively and significantly influence task-technology fit, and significantly affect the behavioral intention of the CTA. However, the privacy risk, social concerns, and perceived benefits of social interaction are not significant factors. The findings provide adequate knowledge of the relative impact of key predictors of the behavioral intention of the Tawakkalna contact-tracing app.
Potentials of Low-Budget Microdrones: Processing 3D Point Clouds and Images for Representing Post-Industrial Landmarks in Immersive Virtual Environments
Authors: Weißmann Marco , Edler Dennis , Rienow Andreas
Published: May 2022

Post-industrial areas in Europe, such as the Rhine-Ruhr Metropolitan region in Germany, include cultural heritage sites fostering local and regional identities with the industrial past. Today, these landmarks are popular places of interest for visitors. In addition to portable camera devices, low-budget ultra-lightweight unmanned aerial vehicles, such as micro quadcopter drones, are on their way to being established as mass photography equipment. This low-cost hardware is not only useful for recreational usage but also supports individualized remote sensing with optical images and facilitates the acquisition of 3D point clouds of the targeted object(s). Both data sets are valuable and accurate geospatial data resources for further processing of textured 3D models. To experience these 3D models in a timely way, these 3D visualizations can directly be imported into game engines. They can be extended with modern interaction techniques and additional (semantic) information. The visualization of the data can be explored in immersive virtual environments, which allows, for instance, urban planners to use low-cost microdrones to 3D map the human impact on the environment and preserve this status in a 3D model that can be analyzed and explored in following steps. A case example of the old wage hall of the Zeche “Bonifacius” (Essen, Germany) with its simple building structure showed that it is possible to generate a detailed and accurate 3D model based on the microdrone data. The point cloud which the 3D model of the old wage hall was based on represented partly better data accuracy than the point clouds derived from airborne laser scanning and offered by public agencies as open data. On average, the distance between the point clouds was 0.7 m, while the average distance between the airborne laser scanning point cloud and the 3D model was −0.02 m. Matching high-quality textures of the building facades brings in a new aspect of 3D data quality which can be adopted when creating immersive virtual environments using the Unity engine. The example of the wage hall makes it clear that the use of low-cost drones and the subsequent data processing can result in valuable sources of point clouds and textured 3D models.
Common Considerations for Genotoxicity Assessment of Nanomaterials
Authors: Elespuru Rosalie K. , Doak Shareen H. , Collins Andrew R. , Dusinska Maria , Pfuhler Stefan , Manjanatha Mugimane , Cardoso Renato , Chen Connie L.
Published: May 2022

Genotoxicity testing is performed to determine potential hazard of a chemical or agent for direct or indirect DNA interaction. Testing may be a surrogate for assessment of heritable genetic risk or carcinogenic risk. Testing of nanomaterials (NM) for hazard identification is generally understood to require a departure from normal testing procedures found in international standards and guidelines. A critique of the genotoxicity literature in Elespuru et al., 2018, reinforced evidence of problems with genotoxicity assessment of nanomaterials (NM) noted by many previously. A follow-up to the critique of problems (what is wrong) is a series of methods papers in this journal designed to provide practical information on what is appropriate (right) in the performance of genotoxicity assays altered for NM assessment. In this “Common Considerations” paper, general considerations are addressed, including NM characterization, sample preparation, dosing choice, exposure assessment (uptake) and data analysis that are applicable to any NM genotoxicity assessment. Recommended methods for specific assays are presented in a series of additional papers in this special issue of the journal devoted to toxicology methods for assessment of nanomaterials: the In vitro Micronucleus Assay, TK Mutagenicity assays, and the In vivo Comet Assay. In this context, NM are considered generally as insoluble particles or test articles in the nanometer size range that present difficulties in assessment using techniques described in standards such as OECD guidelines.
ERAS Is Constitutively Expressed in the Tissues of Adult Horses and May Be a Key Player in Basal Autophagy
Authors: De Falco Francesca , Perillo Antonella , Del Piero Fabio , Del Prete Chiara , Zizzo Nicola , Marcus Ioan , Roperto Sante
Published: May 2022

ERas is a new gene of the Ras family found in murine embryonic stem (ES) cells. Its human ortholog is not expressed in human ES cells. So far ERas gene has only been found to be expressed in the tissues of adult cynomolgus monkeys and cattle; however, information about ERAS expression or its potential functions in equine tissues is lacking. This study was performed to investigate whether Eras is an equine functional gene and whether ERAS is expressed in the tissues of adult horses and determine its potential physiological role. Expression of the ERas gene was detected in all examined adult tissues, and the RT-PCR assay revealed ERAS transcripts. Protein expression was also detected by Western blot analysis. Quantitative real time RT-qPCR analysis revealed that different expression levels of ERAS transcripts were most highly expressed in the testis. Immunohistochemically, ERAS was found to be localized prevalently in the plasmatic membrane as well as cytoplasm of the cells. ERAS was a physical partner of activated PDGFβR leading to the AKT signaling. ERAS was found to interact with a network of proteins (BAG3, CHIP, Hsc70/Hsp70, HspB8, Synpo2, and p62) known to play a role in the chaperone-assisted selective autophagy (CASA), which is also known as BAG3-mediated selective macroautophagy, an adaptive mechanism to maintain cellular homeostasis. Furthermore, ERAS was found to interact with parkin. PINK1, BNIP3, laforin. All these proteins are known to play a role in parkin-dependent and -independent mitophagy. This is the first study demonstrating that Eras is a functional gene, and that ERAS is constitutively expressed in the tissues of adult horses. ERAS appears to play a physiological role in cellular proteostasis maintenance, thus mitigating the proteotoxicity of accumulated misfolded proteins and contributing to protection against disease. Finally, it is conceivable that activation of AKT pathway by PDGFRs promotes actin reorganization, directed cell movements, stimulation of cell growth.
Development of the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s Facilities Status Dashboard for the COVID-19 Pandemic: Approach and Challenges
Authors: Baxter Lisa , Baynes Jeremy , Weaver Anne , Neale Anne , Wade Timothy , Mehaffey Megan , Lobdell Danelle , Widener Kelly , Cascio Wayne
Published: May 2022

Objectives: Develop a tool for applying various COVID-19 re-opening guidelines to the more than 120 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) facilities.

Methods: A geographic information system boundary was created for each EPA facility encompassing the county where the EPA facility is located and the counties where employees commuted from. This commuting area is used for display in the Dashboard and to summarize population and COVID-19 health data for analysis.

Results: Scientists in EPA’s Office of Research and Development developed the EPA Facility Status Dashboard, an easy-to-use web application that displays data and statistical analyses on COVID-19 cases, testing, hospitalizations, and vaccination rates.

Conclusion: The Dashboard was designed to provide readily accessible information for EPA management and staff to view and understand the COVID-19 risk surrounding each facility. It has been modified several times based on user feedback, availability of new data sources, and updated guidance. The views expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views or the policies of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Integrating Process Mining with Discrete-Event Simulation for Dynamic Productivity Estimation in Heavy Civil Construction Operations
Authors: Rashid Khandakar M. , Louis Joseph
Published: May 2022

Construction companies are increasingly utilizing sensing technologies to automatically record different steps of the construction process in detail for effective monitoring and control. This generates a significant amount of event data that can be used to learn the underlying behavior of agents in a construction site using process mining. While process mining can be used to discover the real process and identify and analyze deviations and bottlenecks in operations, it is a backward-looking approach. On the other hand, discrete event simulation (DES) provides a means to forecast future performance from historical data to enable proactive decision-making by operation managers relating to their projects. However, this method is largely unused by the industry due to the specialized knowledge required to create the DES models. This paper thus proposes a framework that extends the utility of collecting event data and their process models, by transforming them into DES models for forecasting future performance. This framework also addresses another challenge of using DES relating to its inability to update itself as the project progresses. This challenge is addressed by using the Bayesian updating technique to continuously update the input parameters of the simulation model for the most up-to-date estimation based on data collected from the field. The proposed framework was validated on a real-world case study of an earthmoving operation. The results show that the process mining techniques could accurately discover the process model from the event data collected from the field. Furthermore, it was noted that continuous updating of DES model input parameters can provide accurate and reliable productivity estimates based on the actual data generated from the field. The proposed framework can help stakeholders to discover the underlying sequence of their operations, and enable timely, data-driven decisions regarding operations control.
Selection of Forage Resources by Juvenile Goats in a Cafeteria Trial: Effect of Browsing Experience, Nutrient and Secondary Compound Content
Authors: Ortíz-Domínguez Gabriel Andrés , Marin-Tun Cindy Goretti , Torres-Fajardo Rafael Arturo , González-Pech Pedro Geraldo , Capetillo-Leal Concepción Manuela , Torres-Acosta Juan Felipe de Jesús , Ventura-Cordero Javier , Sandoval-Castro Carlos Alfredo
Published: May 2022

We evaluated the effect of browsing experience, nutritional quality and secondary compounds of forage resources, and the interaction between these factors on the selection and intake of goats in a cafeteria trial. Twelve juvenile Criollo goats from 7 to 9 months of age, weighing 22 ± 3 kg, were divided into two groups: (a) browser goats group (n = 6, BG), and (b) naïve goats group (n = 6, NG), formed according to their previous browsing experience (with and without, respectively). Animals were housed in individual pens. The cafeteria experiment lasted 21 days considering pen adaptation, foliage adaptation, and measurements, which included the selection index (SI) of experimental forage resources (Chesson’s alpha) and their dry matter intake (DMI/Kg0.75), using a multiple Latin square design. Furthermore, correlation and regression analyses were used to assess the relationship between the aforementioned factors. The NG did not show any selection pattern, while the BG selected Piscidia piscipula and Senegalia gaumeri (p = 0.0002). The BG consumed smaller amounts of secondary compounds compared to NG (p = 0.0001). In the BG, the flavonoids affected negatively their selection (R2 = 97.51, p = 0.0001), while the DMI was affected by in vitro DM digestibility and flavonoids (R2 = 99.85; p = 0.0001). For the NG, the crude protein and organic matter contents were associated with DMI, but none had a significant relationship with SI. The BG selected and consumed forages with suitable nutritional quality avoiding those with high content of secondary compounds such as flavonoids. Conversely, NG did not show a clear pattern for their selection or intake.
β-Carotene Increases Activity of Cytochrome P450 2E1 during Ethanol Consumption
Authors: Sandoval Cristian , Mella Luciana , Godoy Karina , Adeli Khosrow , Farías Jorge
Published: May 2022

One of the key routes through which ethanol induces oxidative stress appears to be the activation of cytochrome P450 2E1 at different levels of ethanol intake. Our aim was to determine if oral β-carotene intake had an antioxidant effect on CYP2E1 gene expression in mice that had previously consumed ethanol. C57BL/6 mice were used and distributed into: control (C), low-dose alcohol (LA), moderate-dose alcohol (MA), β-carotene (B), low-dose alcohol+β-carotene (LA + B), and moderate-dose alcohol+β-carotene (MA + B). Animals were euthanized at the end of the experiment, and liver tissue was taken from each one. CYP2E1 was measured using qPCR to detect liver damage. The relative expression level of each RNA was estimated using the comparative threshold cycle (Ct) technique (2−ΔΔCT method) by averaging the Ct values from three replicates. The LA+B (2267 ± 0.707) and MA+B (2.307 ± 0.384) groups had the highest CYP2E1 fold change values. On the other hand, the C (1.053 ± 0.292) and LA (1.240 ± 0.163) groups had the lowest levels. These results suggest that ethanol feeding produced a fold increase in CYP2E1 protein in mice as compared to the control group. Increased CYP2E1 activity was found to support the hypothesis that β-carotene might be dangerous during ethanol exposure in animal models. Our findings imply that β-carotene can increase the hepatic damage caused by low and high doses of alcohol. Therefore, the quantity of alcohol ingested, the exposure period, the regulatory mechanisms of alcoholic liver damage, and the signaling pathways involved in the consumption of both alcohol and antioxidant must all be considered.
A Clustered PD-NOMA in an Ultra-Dense Heterogeneous Network with Improved System Capacity and Throughput
Authors: Hasan Naureen , Rizvi Safdar , Shabbir Amna
Published: May 2022

In the current era of exponentially growing demand for user connectivity, spectral efficiency (SE), and high throughput, the performance goals have become even more challenging in ultra-dense 5G networks. The conventional orthogonal frequency division multiple access (OFDMA) tech-niques are mature but have not proven sufficient to address the growing user demand for high data rates and increased capacity. Therefore, to achieve an improved throughput in an ultra-dense 5G network with an expanded network capacity, the unified non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) technique is considered to be a more promising and effective solution. Throughput can be im-proved by implementing PD-NOMA, as the interference is managed with the successive inter-ference cancellation (SIC) technique, but the issue of increased complexity and capacity with compromised data rate persists. This study implements the clustered PD-NOMA algorithm to enhance user association and network performance by managing the users in clusters with fewer users per cluster with the implementation of the cooperative PD-NOMA within the clusters. In this study, we enhanced the user association in a network and ultimately improved the throughput, sum rate, and system capacity in an ultra-dense heterogeneous network (HetNet). By imple-menting the proposed clustered PD-NOMA scheme, the system throughput has improved by 23% when compared to the unified PD-NOMA scheme and 65% when compared to the OFDMA scheme with a varied number of randomly deployed users, along with an improvement in system capacity of 8% as compared to the unified PD-NOMA and almost 80% as compared to the conventional OFDMA scheme in a randomly deployed ultra-dense multi-tier heterogeneous network. Thus, we improved the network performance with the proposed algorithm and achieved increased capacity, throughput, and sum rate by outperforming the unified PD-NOMA scheme in an ultra-dense heterogeneous network.
Study on Dynamic Characterization and Vibration Reduction of Scrubber Structures Using Fluid Structure Interaction Analysis
Authors: Cha Woon-Yong
Published: May 2022

A scrubber is an important structure in post-semiconductor processes. It is impossible to completely modify the entire structure of an already installed and operating scrubber if a vibration problem occurs. Therefore, it is essential to determine the cause of vibrations and reinforce the structure. Vibration is majorly caused by the pump, and as considerable vibration is generated around the pump, it is essential to analyze it. However, as various equipment is operated in buildings where scrubbers are installed, the vibration data measured by attaching sensors are invalid owing to surrounding problems. Therefore, in this study, vibration data on the periphery of a pump according to the pump driving force was confirmed using a two-way fluid structure interaction analysis. To this end, a case run was conducted within a changeable design range, and an efficient design for vibration reduction was suggested by comparing the data with a change in the design factor.
Effects of Endurance Cycling on Mechanomyographic Median Power Frequency of the Vastus Lateralis
Authors: Perez Sergio , Olmos Alex A. , Sontag Stephanie A. , Parra Mandy E. , Dimmick Hannah L. , Sterczala Adam J. , Miller Jonathan D. , Deckert Jake A. , Herda Trent J. , Trevino Michael A.
Published: May 2022

This study examined the effects of cycling training on mechanomyographic median power frequency (MMGMDF)–torque relationships of the vastus lateralis (VL). Ten males (Age ± SD; 20.20 ± 1.87 years) and 14 females (21.93 ± 5.33 years) performed isometric trapezoidal muscle actions with the knee extensors at 40% maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) before (PRE) and following 10 weeks of cycling training at the same absolute submaximal torque as pre-training (POSTABS). MMGMDF–torque relationships (increasing and decreasing segment) were log-transformed and b terms (slopes) were calculated. MMGMDF was averaged during steady torque. For POSTABS, the b terms for the females (0.133 ± 0.190) were greater than for the males (−0.083 ± 0.200; p = 0.013) and compared to PRE (0.008 ± 0.161; p = 0.036). At PRE, the b terms for the linearly increasing-muscle action (0.123 ± 0.192) were greater compared to the linearly decreasing-muscle action (−0.061 ± 0.188; p < 0.001), whereas no differences existed between muscle actions for POSTABS (p > 0.05). In conclusion, 10 weeks of cycling training resulted in different motor unit (MU) control strategies between sexes and altered MU control strategies between muscle actions for the VL during a moderate-intensity contraction.
Cervical and Lumbar Disc Arthroplasty: A Review of Current Implant Design and Outcomes
Authors: Wellington Ian J. , Kia Cameron , Coskun Ergin , Torre Barrett B. , Antonacci Christopher L. , Mancini Michael R. , Connors John P. , Esmende Sean M. , Makanji Heeren S.
Published: May 2022

While spinal disc pathology has traditionally been treated using fusion-based procedures, recent interest in motion-preserving disc arthroplasties has grown. Traditional spinal fusion is associated with loss of motion, alteration of native spine kinematics, and increased risks of adjacent segment disease. The motion conferred by disc arthroplasty is believed to combat these complications. While the first implant designs resulted in poor patient outcomes, recent advances in implant design and technology have shown promising radiographic and clinical outcomes when compared with traditional fusion. These results have led to a rapid increase in the utilization of disc arthroplasty, with rates of cervical arthroplasty nearly tripling over the course of 7 years. The purpose of this review was to discuss the evolution of implant design, the current implant designs utilized, and their associated outcomes. Although disc arthroplasty shows significant promise in addressing some of the drawbacks associated with fusion, it is not without its own risks. Osteolysis, implant migration, and the development of heterotopic ossification have all been associated with disc arthroplasty. As interest in these procedures grows, so does the interest in developing improved implant designs aimed at decreasing these adverse outcomes. Though they are still relatively new, cervical and lumbar disc arthroplasty are likely to become foundational methodologies for the treatment of disc pathology.
TGF-β as a Key Modulator of Astrocyte Reactivity: Disease Relevance and Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Luo Jian
Published: May 2022

Astrocytes are essential for normal brain development and functioning. They respond to brain injury and disease through a process referred to as reactive astrogliosis, where the reactivity is highly heterogenous and context-dependent. Reactive astrocytes are active contributors to brain pathology and can exert beneficial, detrimental, or mixed effects following brain insults. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) has been identified as one of the key factors regulating astrocyte reactivity. The genetic and pharmacological manipulation of the TGF-β signaling pathway in animal models of central nervous system (CNS) injury and disease alters pathological and functional outcomes. This review aims to provide recent understanding regarding astrocyte reactivity and TGF-β signaling in brain injury, aging, and neurodegeneration. Further, it explores how TGF-β signaling modulates astrocyte reactivity and function in the context of CNS disease and injury.
Stressing the Regulatory Role of Long Non-Coding RNA in the Cellular Stress Response during Cancer Progression and Therapy
Authors: Wu Yi-Zhen , Su Yong-Han , Kuo Ching-Ying
Published: May 2022

Cellular stress response is an important adaptive mechanism for regulating cell fate decision when cells confront with stress. During tumorigenesis, tumor progression and the course of treatment, cellular stress signaling can activate subsequent response to deal with stress. Therefore, cellular stress response has impacts on the fate of tumor cells and tumor responsiveness relative to therapeutic agents. In recent years, attention has been drawn to long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), a novel class of RNA molecules with more than 200 nucleotides in length, which has little protein-coding potential and possesses various functions in multiple biological processes. Accumulating evidence has shown that lncRNAs are also engaged in the regulation of cellular stress response, particularly in cancers. Here, we summarize lncRNAs that have been reported in the adaptive response to major types of cellular stress including genotoxic, hypoxic, oxidative, metabolic and endoplasmic reticulum stress, all of which are often encountered by cancer cells. Specifically, the molecular mechanisms of how lncRNAs regulate cellular stress response during tumor progression or the development of therapy resistance are emphasized. The potential clinical applications of stress-responsive lncRNAs as biomarkers will also be discussed.
Energy-Efficient, On-Demand Activation of Biosensor Arrays for Long-Term Continuous Health Monitoring
Authors: Lundquist Jonathan , Horstmann Benjamin , Pestov Dmitry , Ozgur Umit , Avrutin Vitaliy , Topsakal Erdem
Published: May 2022

Wearable biosensors for continuous health monitoring, particularly those used for glucose detection, have a limited operational lifetime due to biodegradation and fouling. As a result, patients must change sensors frequently, increasing cost and patient discomfort. Arrays of multiple sensors, where the individual devices can be activated on demand, increase overall operational longevity, thereby reducing cost and improving patient outcomes. This work demonstrates the feasibility of this approach via decomposition of combustible nitrocellulose membranes that protect the individual sensors from exposure to bioanalytes using a current pulse. Metal contacts, connected by graphene-loaded PEDOT:PSS polymer on the surface of the membrane, deliver the required energy to decompose the membrane. Nitrocellulose membranes with a thickness of less than 1 µm consistently transfer on to polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) wells. An electrical energy as low as 68 mJ has been shown to suffice for membrane decomposition.