bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endothelial Cell Metabolism in Vascular Functions
Authors: Filippini Antonio , Tamagnone Luca , D’Alessio Alessio
Published: April 2022

The endothelium is the innermost layer of all blood and lymphatic vessels composed of a monolayer of specialized endothelial cells (ECs). It is regarded as a dynamic and multifunctional endocrine organ that takes part in essential processes, such as the control of blood fluidity, the modulation of vascular tone, the regulation of immune response and leukocyte trafficking into perivascular tissues, and angiogenesis. The inability of ECs to perform their normal biological functions, known as endothelial dysfunction, is multi-factorial; for instance, it implicates the failure of ECs to support the normal antithrombotic and anti-inflammatory status, resulting in the onset of unfavorable cardiovascular conditions such as atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, hypertension, heart problems, and other vascular pathologies. Notably, it is emerging that the ability of ECs to adapt their metabolic status to persistent changes of the tissue microenvironment could be vital for the maintenance of vascular functions and to prevent adverse vascular events. The main purpose of the present article is to shed light on the unique metabolic plasticity of ECs as a prospective therapeutic target; this may lead to the development of novel strategies for cardiovascular diseases and cancer.
Effect of Ceria Doping in Different Impregnation Steps on Ni-Based Catalysts Loading on TiO2-SiC for CO Methanation
Authors: Liu Chen , Zheng Qin , Zhang Yusheng
Published: April 2022

A series of TiO2-SiC supported Ni-based catalysts with and without ceria doping were prepared by a traditional impregnation method. CeO2 was introduced into the catalyst in different steps of the impregnation process. All the samples were characterized by N2 physisorption, XRD, TPR, and TGA, and were tested for the performance of CO methanation in a fixed-bed reactor under atmospheric conditions through the steam of H2/CO = 3 without diluent gas. All the Ni-based catalysts supported by TiO2-SiC exhibited the property of anti-sintering and could efficiently avoid carbon deposition occurring on catalysts. The experimental results show that the performance of all CeO2 doping samples (more than 80% of CO conversion) was better than the sample without CeO2 (around 20% of CO conversion). Introducing CeO2 after the dry step of impregnation achieved complete CO conversion at a lower temperature compared with its introduction through doping at the co-impregnation and step-impregnation methods. The results of further characterization indicate that the addition of CeO2 in different impregnation steps affected the dispersion of nickel on support, made the size of metal particles smaller, and changed the reducibility of catalysts.
Assessment of the Preventive Effect of L-carnitine on Post-statin Muscle Damage in a Zebrafish Model
Authors: Niedbalska-Tarnowska Joanna , Ochenkowska Katarzyna , Migocka-Patrzałek Marta , Dubińska-Magiera Magda
Published: April 2022

Statins, such as lovastatin, are lipid-lowering drugs (LLDs) that have been used to treat hypercholesterolaemia, defined as abnormally elevated cholesterol levels in the patient’s blood. Although statins are considered relatively safe and well tolerated, recipients may suffer from adverse effects, including post-statin myopathies. Many studies have shown that supplementation with various compounds may be beneficial for the prevention or treatment of side effects in patients undergoing statin therapy. In our study, we investigated whether L-carnitine administered to zebrafish larvae treated with lovastatin alleviates post-statin muscle damage. We found that exposure of zebrafish larvae to lovastatin caused skeletal muscle disruption observed as a reduction of birefringence, changes in muscle ultrastructure, and an increase in atrogin-1. Lovastatin also affected heart performance and swimming behaviour of larvae. Our data indicated that the muscle-protective effect of L-carnitine is partial. Some observed myotoxic effects, such as disruption of skeletal muscle and increase in atrogin-1 expression, heart contraction could be rescued by the addition of L-carnitine. Others, such as slowed heart rate and reduced locomotion, could not be mitigated by L-carnitine supplementation.
Sensitivity Analysis and Cost Estimation of a CO2 Capture Plant in Aspen HYSYS
Authors: Shirdel Shirvan , Valand Stian , Fazli Fatemeh , Winther-Sørensen Bernhard , Aromada Solomon Aforkoghene , Karunarathne Sumudu , Øi Lars Erik
Published: April 2022

A standard CO2 capture process is implemented in Aspen HYSYS, simulated, and evaluated based on available data from Fortum’s waste burning facility at Klemetsrud in Norway. Since amine-based CO2 removal has high costs, the main aim is cost-optimizing. A simplified carbon-capture unit with a 20-m absorber packing height, 90% CO2 removal efficiency, and a minimum approach temperature for the lean/rich amine heat exchanger (ΔTmin) of 10 °C was considered the base case simulation model. A sensitivity analysis was performed to optimize these parameters. For the base case study, CO2 captured cost was calculated as 37.5 EUR/t. When the sensitivity analysis changes the size, the Power Law method adjusts the equipment cost. A comparison of the Enhanced Detailed Factor (EDF) and the Power Law approach was performed for all simulations to evaluate the uncertainties in the findings from the Power Law method. The optimums calculated for ΔTmin and CO2 capture rate were 15 °C and 87% for both methods, with CO2 removal costs of 37 EUR/t CO2 and 36.7 EUR/t CO2, respectively. With 19 m of packing height to absorber, the minimum CO2 capture cost was calculated as 37.3 EUR/t and 37.1 EUR/t for the EDF and Power Law methods, respectively. Since there was a difference between the Power Law method and the EDF method, a size factor exponent derivation was performed. The derivation resulted in the following exponents: for the lean heat exchanger 0.74, for the lean/rich heat exchanger 1.03, for the condenser 0.68, for the reboiler 0.92, for the pump 0.88, and for the fan 0.23.
Parents’ Time Perspective as a Predictor of Child’s Postsurgical Pain, Emergence Delirium, and Parents’ Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms after Child’s Surgery
Authors: Sobol Małgorzata , Sobol Marek Krzysztof
Published: April 2022

Background: The aim of this study was to predict children’s postsurgical pain, emergence delirium and parents’ posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms after a child’s surgery based on the parents’ time perspective. Method: A total of 98 children, aged 2 to 15, and their accompanying parents participated in this study. Measures of parents’ time perspective and posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms were obtained based on questionnaires. The level of children’s postsurgical pain and delirium were rated by nurses and anaesthesiologist. Results: Parents’ future-negative perspective was a predictor of emergence delirium in the group of children aged 8–15 years. Low parents’ past-positive perspective turned out to be a predictor of parents’ posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms after child’s surgery. Conclusions: The results provide evidence for associations between parents’ time perspective with child’s emergence delirium and parents’ posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms after child’s surgery.
Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework 67-Derived Ce-Doped CoP@N-Doped Carbon Hollow Polyhedron as High-Performance Anodes for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhai Yanjun , Zhou Shuli , Guo Linlin , Xin Xiaole , Zeng Suyuan , Qu Konggang , Wang Nana , Zhang Xianxi
Published: April 2022

Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework 67 (ZIF-67) and its derivates have attracted extensive interest for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Here, Cerium-doped cobalt phosphide@nitrogen-doped carbon (Ce-doped CoP@NC) with hollow polyhedron structure materials were successfully synthesized via ionic-exchange with Co and Ce ions using the ZIF-67 as a template followed with a facile low-temperature phosphorization treatment. Benefitting from the well-designed hollow polyhedron, steady carbon network, and Ce-doping structural merits, the as-synthesized Ce-doped CoP@NC electrode demonstrated superior performance as the anode in LIBs: a superior cyclability (400 mA h g−1 after 500 cycles) and outstanding rate-capability (590 mA h g−1, reverted to 100 mA g−1). These features not only produced more lithium-active sites for LIBs anode and a shorter Li-ion diffusion pathway to expedite the charge transfer, but also the better tolerance against volume variation of CoP during the repeated lithiation/delithiation process and greater electronic conductivity properties. These results provide a methodology for the design of well-organized ZIFs and rare earth element-doped transition metal phosphate with a hollow polyhedron structure.
Comparative Degradation Studies of Carmine Dye by Photocatalysis and Photoelectrochemical Oxidation Processes in the Presence of Graphene/N-Doped ZnO Nanostructures
Authors: El-Sayed Fatma , Hussien Mai S. A. , AlAbdulaal Thekrayat H. , Ismail Ahmed , Zahran Heba Y. , Yahia Ibrahim S. , Abdel-wahab Mohamed Sh. , Khairy Yasmin , Ali Tarik E. , Ibrahim Medhat A.
Published: April 2022

The goal of this study was to synthesize a UV-light-active ZnO photocatalyst by modifying it with nitrogen and graphene, then applying it to the degradation of carmine dye utilizing two promising technologies: photocatalysis and electrochemical oxidation (E.O.). Different techniques were used to analyze the prepared photocatalysts, such as Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). According to XRD measurements, the produced nanocomposite possesses a hexagonal wurtzite structure, indicating ZnO and markedly crystalline. For photocatalytic applications, the results revealed that the 0.001 g of G/N-doped ZnO catalyst achieved 66.76% degradation of carmine and kinetic degradation rates of 0.007 min−1 within 185 min by photocatalysis under UV light irradiation. In comparison, the same sample reached 100% degradation of carmine and kinetic degradation rates of 0.202 min−1 within 15 min using the electrochemical oxidation method. The improved photocatalytic activity of as-produced nanocomposites can be attributed to intermediate levels in the prohibited bandgap energy and the enhanced oxygen vacancies caused by nitrogen doping. The electrolyte (NaCl) on the degradation of the carmine dye was tested, and the findings indicated that the dye molecules were photodegraded by the 0.001 g of G/N-doped ZnO nanocomposite after a 15 min time interval. The data presented in this work for the carmine breakdown in water give intriguing contrasts between photocatalytic, indirect electrochemical oxidation, and photoelectrochemical oxidation. The action of chlorinated oxidative species, predominantly HClO, which were electrogenerated at the electrode surface due to the chloride ion’s oxidation in solution, induced indirect electrochemical oxidation degradation. This study also revealed that the modifications made to ZnO were beneficial by improving its photocatalytic activities under UV light, as well as a comparison of photocatalysis and electrochemical oxidation processes to determine which technique is best for treating carmine in effluents with high chloride ions.
Time, Mediated through Plant Versatility, Is a Better Predictor of Medicinal Status of Alien Plants
Authors: Yessoufou Kowiyou , Ambani Annie Estelle , Elansary Hosam O. , El-Sabrout Ahmed M. , Shokralla Shadi
Published: April 2022

Ethnobotany has been, for too long, a descriptive discipline. However, ethnobotanists are increasingly calling for a paradigm shift towards the formulation of unifying theories and hypothesis-driven research in ethnobotany. Here, we formulated a theory, termed time-since-introduction theory, to explain the integration of alien plants into local pharmacopoeias in their recipient environment. This theory suggests that the factor time is paramount in determining which alien plants are more likely to be included in the medicinal flora of the areas they are introduced in. The theory relies on three hypotheses, the availability and versatility hypotheses alongside the residence time hypothesis newly proposed in the present study. We tested this theory by fitting a structural equation model to ethnobotanical data collected on South Africa’s alien woody flora. Although residence time is a direct predictor of the medicinal status of alien plants, it is a better predictor when mediated through plant versatility. These findings are in support of the theory, and we consequently proposed a framework that can be used to understand different paths linking all three hypotheses. Collectively, our study shows the value of time in the development of ethnobotanical knowledge and fully responds to the pressing call for a paradigm shift in ethnobotany.
Panel Sequencing for Clinically Oriented Variant Screening and Copy Number Detection in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Patients
Authors: Ibáñez Mariam , Such Esperanza , Liquori Alessandro , Avestisyan Gayane , Andreu Rafael , Vicente Ana , Macián María José , Melendez Mari Carmen , Morote-Faubel Mireya , Asensi Pedro , Lloret María Pilar , Jarque Isidro , Picón Isabel , Pacios Alejandro , Donato Eva , Mas-Ochoa Carmen , Alonso Carmen , Cañigral Carolina , Sempere Amparo , Romero Samuel , Santiago Marta , Sanz Guillermo F. , de la Rubia Javier , Senent Leonor , Luna Irene
Published: April 2022

According to current guidelines, in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), only the TP53 molecular status must be evaluated prior to every treatment’s initiation. However, additional heterogeneous genetic events are known to confer a proliferative advantage to the tumor clone and are associated with progression and treatment failure in CLL patients. Here, we describe the implementation of a comprehensive targeted sequencing solution that is suitable for routine clinical practice and allows for the detection of the most common somatic single-nucleotide and copy number variants in genes relevant to CLL. We demonstrate that this cost-effective strategy achieves variant detection with high accuracy, specificity, and sensitivity. Furthermore, we identify somatic variants and copy number variations in genes with prognostic and/or predictive value, according to the most recent literature, and the tool provides evidence about subclonal events. This next-generation sequencing (NGS) capture-based target assay is an improvement on current approaches in defining molecular prognostic and/or predictive variables in CLL patients.
The Optimal Power Allocation for Sum Rate and Energy Efficiency of Full-Duplex Two-Way Communication Network
Authors: Ye Hengdong , Chen Zhengchuan , Jia Yunjian , Chen Shutong
Published: April 2022

Full-duplex (FD) transmission holds a great potential of improving the sum data rate of wireless communication systems. However, the self-interference introduced by the full-duplex transmitter brings a big challenge to enhance the energy efficiency. This paper investigates the power allocation problem in a full-duplex two-way (FDTW) communication network over an OFDM channel, aiming at improving the sum data rate and energy efficiency. We first characterize the sum rate and energy efficiency achieved in a single-carrier FDTW system. The optimal transmit power that achieves the maximal sum data rate is presented. The energy efficiency maximization problem is solved by using fractional programming. Then we further formulate sum rate and energy efficiency maximization problem in a multi-subcarrier FDTW system. In particular, the sub-optimal transmit power allocation which achieves a decent sum rate improvement is found by using a proposed iterative algorithm. By combining the iterative algorithm and fractional programming, we further maximize the energy efficiency of the multi-subcarrier system. With our proposed algorithm, we can easily obtain an optimal transmit power that approximates the global optimal solution. Simulation results show that using the obtained optimal transmit power allocation algorithm can significantly improve the sum rate and energy efficiency in both single-carrier and multi-subcarrier systems.
Assisted Discovery Based Learning of the Electric Force with Scaffolding for Novice Students
Authors: Aquines Gutiérrez Osvaldo , Galloway Ross K. , Santos Ayax , Martínez-Huerta Humberto , González Héctor
Published: April 2022

Despite being one of the pillars of physics and a well-known subject, the electric force is sometimes not immediately evident to students. Discovery-based learning has proven to be very effective in science education; nevertheless, it can become stressful for students if they don’t have the necessary scaffolding and training to construct knowledge by themselves. In this work, examples of obstacles to students were the absence of the necessary background knowledge, distractions in multimedia environments, and that some students prefer regular instruction in order not to be left alone in the face of active learning dynamics. Therefore, we designed and implemented an assisted active learning sequence that includes moderated intervention from two different lecturers on an Electricity and Magnetism course at a private university in Mexico to compare the normalized learning changes with a standard directed lecture. The primary objective of the active learning sequence was to introduce students to the discovery of the electric force via a simulated experiment using a web-based physics simulation, Newtondreams. By comparing normalized learning changes between four groups, two control, and two experimental groups, we show that students in the experimental groups performed significantly better than the control groups (⟨c⟩ = 0.469 and 0.435 for the experimental groups, and ⟨c⟩ = 0.08 and 0.077 for the control groups). We performed a Wilcoxon Rank-Sum Test to examine the normalized gains between the groups. Observed p-values show that there is significant difference between experimental and control groups: CG1 vs. EG1 (p = 0.00109), CG2 vs. EG2 (p = 0.00079). On the contrary there are no observed significance on the effect of the instructor CG1 vs. CG2 (p = 1), EG1 vs. EG2 (p = 1). Then, that active learning is more effective than regular instruction. Studying the concentration factors we also found that active learning develop better comprehension that regular instruction lecture. At the end of the experiments, we performed student interviews that also showed they felt less stressed and more involved when using the assisted active learning sequence, making the learning experience more amenable when the instructor changes their role from presenter to a guide.
Experimental Assessment of the Thermal Conductivity of Basalt Fibres at High Temperatures
Authors: Vankov Yuri , Bazukova Elvira , Emelyanov Dmitry , Fedyukhin Alexander , Afanaseva Olga , Akhmetova Irina , Berardi Umberto
Published: April 2022

This paper investigates fibrous thermal insulation materials of various densities to assess the change in their thermophysical properties at high temperatures. The thermal conductivity of fibrous thermal insulation materials is discussed as a function of the temperature in the range from 50 °C to 500 °C. It is shown that the thermal insulating properties depend not only on the physical properties of the material (e.g., density or diameter of fibres), but also on the geometric parameters of the structure and on the orientation of the fibres. The influence of high temperatures on the mass change of fibrous materials associated with the burnout of synthetic binders is shown. These features should be taken into account during the design of thermal insulation operating at high temperatures to provide the optimal selection of the material and to guarantee the stability of their thermal properties.
Power Systems’ Connectivity and Resiliency: Modeling, Simulation and Analysis
Authors: Andrei Paul Cristian , Andrei Horia
Published: April 2022

Over the last decade, online data acquisition and processing of power systems’ parameters led to significant improvements in power systems’ operability, control and reliability [...]
Solar Energy Deployment for the Sustainable Future of Vietnam: Hybrid SWOC-FAHP-WASPAS Analysis
Authors: Thanh Nguyen Van , Lan Nguyen Thi Kim
Published: April 2022

In recent years, solar power has developed significantly in Vietnam, making an important contribution to ensuring energy conservation and decreasing greenhouse gas exposure. Recently, Vietnam has experienced impressive growth in the solar and wind energy sectors, showing the high potential of using renewable electricity in addressing energy needs. The target of this study was to construct a fuzzy multicriteria decision-making, model including strengths-weaknesses-opportunities-challenges (SWOC) analysis, the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (F-AHP) model, and the weighted aggregates sum product assessment (WASPAS) model, to select the location of a solar power plant in south Vietnam. The proposed fuzzy multicriteria decision-making model (MCDM) model is the first solar power plant location selection in southern Vietnam that utilizes literature reviews and expert interviews. Moreover, this is the first study to provide a case study on evaluating locations during solar power plant location selection that utilizes a combination of the SWOC, FAHP, and WASPAS models. The findings of this study provide valuable knowledge for the assessment and selection of suitable locations for renewable energy projects, including both solar power energy projects and other renewable energy projects.
Characteristics of Soil Mites Communities Structure under Vegetation Vertical Gradient in the Shibing World Natural Heritage Property, China
Authors: Zhou Yuanyuan , Wei Qiang , Xiao Niejia , Huang Ju , Gong Tong , Fei Yifan , Shi Zheng , Chen Hu
Published: April 2022

In montane environments, as elevation increases, the combination of hydrothermal factors changing and vegetation types changing can cause changes to the soil mite community. To reveal the influence of different vertical vegetation types on the structure and diversity of soil mite communities in the Shibing Karst World Natural Heritage Property, in September 2021, specimen collection and identification of soil mites were carried out under the four typical vegetation zones of coniferous broad-leaved mixed forests (CBF), evergreen broad-leaved forests (EBF), deciduous broad-leaved forests (DBF), and river beach scrubs (RBS) in the Heritage Property. This occurred in order to analyze the community structure of soil mites. A total of 10,563 soil mites were captured in this region, belonging to 3 orders, 67 families, 137 genera; Perscheloribates and Scheloribates are the dominant groups in the area. The number of soil mite genera (CBF > EBF > DBF > RBS) and the number of individuals (RBS > DBF > CBF > EBF) differed between vegetation types. The dominant soil mite genera were not entirely consistent, with the highest values for each soil mite community diversity parameter being in the EBF habitat. The number of soil mite genera and individuals differed among vegetation types in different soil layers. It showed an apparent aggregation towards the surface layer, with complex diversity and richness indices changes. The highest community similarity indices were found between CBF and DBF, which were moderately similar. The cluster analysis results further showed that soil mite communities differed in different vegetation zones and among the same vegetation zones. The predatory gamasid mite structure is mainly r-selective. The ecological groups of oribatid mites are all O-type in the number of groups and P-type in the number of individuals. Lasiobelba, Nanhermannia, Tectocepheus, and Mochlozetes, among others, represent the group of nutrient functions that make up the soil mites in the study area. The study shows that the soil mite community of the Shibing Karst World Natural Heritage Property is rich in groups and shows gradient differences with the vegetation spectrum, and based on the unique subtropical canyon karst habitat of the Heritage Property, the community structure of soil mites will be in the process of adaptation and dynamic change, so long-term dynamic monitoring and in-depth study of the soil mites community structure of the Heritage Property are needed.
Bioprocess Strategy of Haematococcus lacustris for Biomass and Astaxanthin Production Keys to Commercialization: Perspective and Future Direction
Authors: Oslan Siti Nur Hazwani , Oslan Siti Nurbaya , Mohamad Rosfarizan , Tan Joo Shun , Yusoff Abdul Hafidz , Matanjun Patricia , Mokhtar Ruzaidi Azli Mohd , Shapawi Rossita , Huda Nurul
Published: April 2022

Haematococcus lacustris (formerly called Haematococcus pluvialis) is regarded as the most promising microalgae for the production of natural astaxanthin, which is secondary metabolism used as a dietary supplement, also for cosmetic applications, due to its high anti-oxidant activity. Astaxanthin has a wide range of biological activities and high economic potential, and currently dominates the market in its synthetic form. Furthermore, because of the difficulty of bioprocess and the high cost of cultivation, astaxanthin extracted from this microalga is still expensive due to its low biomass and pigment productivities. Large-scale biomass production in biotechnological production necessitates the processing of a large number of cultures as well as the use of both indoor and outdoor systems, such as open pond raceway systems and photo-bioreactors (PBR). The photo-bioreactors systems are suitable for mass production because growth conditions can be controlled, and the risk of contamination can be reduced to a certain extent and under specific culture parameters. This review discusses current technologies being developed to improve cultivation and operation efficiency and profitability, as well as the effect of parameter factors associated with H. lacustris cultivation on biomass and astaxanthin bioproduction, and even strategies for increasing bioproduction and market potential for H. lacustris astaxanthin.
Shear and Flexural Behavior of Flat Slabs Casted with Polyolefin Fiber-Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Abbas Abdulnasser M. , Hussain Haleem K. , Ojaimi Mohammed Farhan
Published: April 2022

This paper presents the influence of polyolefin fiber on the flexural and shear attitude on the flat slabs. Three slab sets (80 cm × 80 cm) were tested, each with a thickness of 10 cm. In the first set (S1), the effect of fiber content on the flexural behavior of the flat slab was considered. Therefore, four slab specimens were cast, one of which was considered as a control specimen with no fiber content, while the other three included fibers at 0.5, 1, and 1.5 percent of the total concrete volume. The second series of experiments studied the flexural behavior of flat slabs (S2) with an opening of 15 cm × 15 cm. The first specimen contained nil polyolefin, while the second included 1% polyolefin. In the third set (S3), consideration was taken for 0 and 1% of Polyolefin to realize the shear behavior of the flat slab. The increase in polyolefin fiber content from 0 to 1.5% (for slab set 1) will decrease the deflection from 4.5 mm to 2.3 mm, with an average of 3.58 mm, which is close to the deflection of a 1% polyolefin fiber specimen. Three dimensional models for the tested slabs were simulated numerically via ABAQUS software program. The ratio of the maximum deflection between the experimental and the numerical outcomes were varied with a range of 1.01 to 1.28, with an average of 1.14.
Reformulation of Traditional Fermented Tea Sausage Utilizing Novel (Digital) Methods of Analysis
Authors: Simunovic Stefan , Đorđević Vesna Ž. , Rašeta Mladen , Lukić Mirjana , Lorenzo José M. , Djekic Ilija , Tomašević Igor
Published: April 2022

The main objective of this paper was to investigate the effect of fat reduction on different quality traits of tea sausage. This study also aimed to deploy the following digital methods of analysis: three-dimensional (3D) laser imaging, computer vision system and oral processing. Three batches of tea sausage with different amounts of pork back fat were manufactured: control (25%), medium fat (17.5%) and low fat (10%). Samples for the analyses were taken on the production day and after 7, 14, 21, 28 and 35 days of ripening. The fat level significantly influenced shrinkage, texture, pH, aw, moisture and ash contents, peroxide value, acid number, number of chewing strokes, consumption time, eating rate and fat intake rate. Oxidative stability, colour and microbiological parameters were not affected by fat reduction. The results of the sensory analysis showed that the fat level can be reduced to 17.5% without negatively affecting the quality and sensory properties of the product. The ripening time of the fat-reduced tea sausage should be reduced to 28 days. A strong correlation between shrinkage and weight loss suggests the possibility of using 3D laser imaging in predicting weight loss and moisture content of dry sausages.
Physicochemical, Microbiological and Microstructural Characteristics of Sucrose-Free Probiotic-Frozen Yogurt during Storage
Authors: Atallah Atallah A. , Ismail Elsayed A. , Yehia Hany M. , Elkhadragy Manal F. , Aloufi Abeer S. , Gemiel Dalia G.
Published: April 2022

Frozen yogurt is known as ice cream with some properties of yogurt. Frozen yogurts are a rich source of sucrose levels between 15% and 28% of total ingredients. Consumers suffering from lactose intolerance and metabolic syndrome are looking for sugar-free products. The current study investigates the sugar replacements by using sweeteners (stevia, sucralose and sorbitol) on physicochemical, microbiological, microstructural and sensory characteristics of probiotic-frozen yogurt. Four different treatments of probiotic-frozen yogurts were studied (control probiotic-frozen yogurt with sucrose (F1), probiotic-frozen yogurt with stevia (F2), probiotic-frozen yogurt with sucralose (F3) and probiotic-frozen yogurt with sorbitol (F4)). The chemical properties were not significantly present p > 0.05) during storage in all treatments. In the F1 treatment, sucrose value was higher (14.87%) and not detected in the F2, F3 and F4 treatments. The highest values of overrun, hardness and viscosity (p < 0.05) were detected in the F2, F3 and F3 samples, but the lowest value was detected in the F1 treatment. Total Str. thermophilus and Lb. delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus counts were gradually decreased (p < 0.05) during storage periods. At 1 day, the Bifidobacteria counts ranged from 7.56 to 7.60 log10 CFU g−1 in all groups and gradually decreased during storage, but these bacterial counts remained viable (>6.00 log10 CFU g−1) during storage periods up to 60 d. During storage periods, the highest scores of total acceptability were detected in the F3, F4 and F2 treatments. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) micrographs of all probiotic-frozen yogurt treatments illustrated that the microstructures showed a difference with a fine network, size pores and structure between the frozen yogurt with sweeteners (F2, F3 and F3) and control frozen yogurt (F1).
A Time-Dependent Hierarchical Model for Elastic and Inelastic Scattering Data Analysis of Aerogels and Similar Soft Materials
Authors: Gommes Cedric J.
Published: April 2022

Soft nanomaterials like aerogels are subject to thermal fluctuations, so that their structure randomly fluctuates with time. Neutron elastic and inelastic scattering experiments provide unique structural and dynamic information on such systems with nanometer and nanosecond resolution. The data, however, come in the form of space- and time-correlation functions, and models are required to convert them into time-dependent structures. We present here a general time-dependent stochastic model of hierarchical structures, with scale-invariant fractals as a particular case, which enables one to jointly analyze elastic and inelastic scattering data. In order to describe thermal fluctuations, the model builds on time-dependent generalisations of the Boolean model of penetrable spheres, whereby each sphere is allowed to move either ballistically or diffusively. Analytical expressions are obtained for the correlation functions, which can be used for data fitting. The model is then used to jointly analyze previously published small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) and neutron spin-echo (NSE) data measured on silica aerogels. In addition to structural differences, the approach provides insight into the different scale-dependent mobility of the aggregates that make up the aerogels, in relation with their different connectivities.
An Alternatively Spliced Variant of METTL3 Mediates Tumor Suppression in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Xu Rui-Yao , Ding Zhan , Zhao Qing , Ke Tiao-Ying , Chen Shu , Wang Xing-Yu , Wang Yao-Yun , Sheng Meng-Fei , Wang Wei , Long Ni , Shen Yu-Xian , Xu Yong-Zhen , Shao Wei
Published: April 2022

Many post-transcriptional mRNA processing steps play crucial roles in tumorigenesis and the progression of cancers, such as N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification and alternative splicing. Upregulation of methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3), the catalytic core of the m6A methyltransferase complex, increases m6A levels and results in significant effects on the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, alternative splicing of METTL3 has not been fully investigated, and the functions of its splice variants remain unclear. Here, we analyzed both our and online transcriptomic data, obtaining 13 splice variants of METTL3 in addition to canonical full-length METTL3-A in HCC cell lines and tissues. Validated by RT–qPCR and Western blotting, we found that METTL3-D, one of the splice variants expressing a truncated METTL3 protein, exhibits higher levels than METTL3-A in normal human livers but lower levels than METTL3-A in HCC tumor tissues and cell lines. Further functional assays demonstrated that METTL3-D expression decreased cellular m6A modification, inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of HCC cells, and was negatively associated with the malignancy of patient tumors, exhibiting functions opposite to those of full-length METTL3-A. This study demonstrates that the METTL3-D splice variant is a tumor suppressor that could potentially be used as a target for HCC therapy.
LigaSure versus Conventional Parotidectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Chen Sonia Wei-Ting , Hsin Li-Jen , Lin Wan-Ni , Tsai Yao-Te , Tsai Ming-Shao , Lee Yi-Chan
Published: April 2022

Surgery with parotidectomy is the preferable treatment for most parotid tumors. Our meta-analysis compared the differences between the use of the LigaSure (LS) device and the conventional suture ligation technique (CT) in parotidectomies. A literature search in databases including EMBASE, MEDLINE, and the Cochrane Library was carried out. Studies including parotidectomy using LS and CT were included with the intraoperative and postoperative parameters collected. Continuous operative time data were measured by mean differences (MDs). Discrete data on postoperative complications, including facial palsy, postoperative bleeding, and salivary complications, were evaluated with risk differences (RDs). All values were reported with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Five studies were included in our meta-analysis. The pooled analysis demonstrated a significant reduction in operative time in the LS group (MD: −21.92; 95% CI, −30.18 to −13.66). In addition, the analysis indicated that the incidence of postoperative complications, including permanent facial palsy (RD, −0.01; 95% CI, −0.06 to 0.05), temporary facial palsy (RD, 0.00; 95% CI, −0.03 to 0.04), salivary complications (RD, −0.01; 95% CI, −0.08 to 0.06), and postoperative bleeding (RD, −0.02; 95% CI, −0.07 to 0.04), were all similar between the LS group and the CT group. According to the results, the LS device appears to be a safe and useful tool and could shorten the operative time in patients needing parotidectomy.
Mixed Neuroendocrine Non-Neuroendocrine Neoplasms of the Gastrointestinal Tract: A Case Series
Authors: Guerrera Luigi Pio , Suarato Gabriella , Napolitano Rossella , Perrone Alessandra , Caputo Vincenza , Ventriglia Anna , Martini Giulia , Della Corte Carminia Maria , Orditura Michele , Martinelli Erika , Ciardiello Fortunato , Montella Marco , Franco Renato , Troiani Teresa , Napolitano Stefania
Published: April 2022

Mixed neuroendocrine non-neuroendocrine neoplasms (MiNENs) refer to heterogenous rare neoplasms constituted of at least a neuroendocrine population—either well-differentiated, or more frequently poorly differentiated—and a non-neuroendocrine population, both accounting for at least 30% of the whole tumor mass. Several studies recently focused on the key genetic and epigenetic changes underlying MiNENs to better understand how they develop, and explore biological similarities among the two components and their pure counterparts. However, their molecular landscape still remains poorly understood. NGS may represent a useful tool to study this orphan disease by detecting the main genetic alterations and possible therapeutic targets. NGS analysis on tissue and/or blood samples through the Foundation One (F1) platform was performed on consecutive samples collected from four patients diagnosed with MiNENs of the gastroenteric tract. Several genetic alterations were shared among samples from the same patients, thus suggesting a common origin between them, although morphology sometimes changed at histopathological evaluation. Common molecular alterations among samples from different patients that had not been previously described to our knowledge were also detected. Finally, it is of the utmost importance to clarify if the maintenance of the 30% cut-off is still essential in defining MiNENs and really manages to include all of the mixed neoplasms.
Fine Crop Classification Based on UAV Hyperspectral Images and Random Forest
Authors: Wang Zhihua , Zhao Zhan , Yin Chenglong
Published: April 2022

The classification of unmanned aerial vehicle hyperspectral images is of great significance in agricultural monitoring. This paper studied a fine classification method for crops based on feature transform combined with random forest (RF). Aiming at the problem of a large number of spectra and a large amount of calculation, three feature transform methods for dimensionality reduction, minimum noise fraction (MNF), independent component analysis (ICA), and principal component analysis (PCA), were studied. Then, RF was used to finely classify a variety of crops in hyperspectral images. The results showed: (1) The MNF–RF combination was the best ideal classification combination in this study. The best classification accuracies of the MNF–RF random sample set in the Longkou and Honghu areas were 97.18% and 80.43%, respectively; compared with the original image, the RF classification accuracy was improved by 6.43% and 8.81%, respectively. (2) For this study, the overall classification accuracy of RF in the two regions was positively correlated with the number of random sample points. (3) The image after feature transform was less affected by the number of sample points than the original image. The MNF transform curve of the overall RF classification accuracy in the two regions varied with the number of random sample points but was the smoothest and least affected by the number of sample points, followed by the PCA transform and ICA transform curves. The overall classification accuracies of MNF–RF in the Longkou and Honghu areas did not exceed 0.50% and 3.25%, respectively, with the fluctuation of the number of sample points. This research can provide reference for the fine classification of crops based on UAV-borne hyperspectral images.
Psycho-Neuro-Endocrine-Immunological Basis of the Placebo Effect: Potential Applications beyond Pain Therapy
Authors: Ortega Ángel , Salazar Juan , Galban Néstor , Rojas Milagros , Ariza Daniela , Chávez-Castillo Mervin , Nava Manuel , Riaño-Garzón Manuel E. , Díaz-Camargo Edgar Alexis , Medina-Ortiz Oscar , Bermúdez Valmore
Published: April 2022

The placebo effect can be defined as the improvement of symptoms in a patient after the administration of an innocuous substance in a context that induces expectations regarding its effects. During recent years, it has been discovered that the placebo response not only has neurobiological functions on analgesia, but that it is also capable of generating effects on the immune and endocrine systems. The possible integration of changes in different systems of the organism could favor the well-being of the individuals and go hand in hand with conventional treatment for multiple diseases. In this sense, classic conditioning and setting expectations stand out as psychological mechanisms implicated in the placebo effect. Recent advances in neuroimaging studies suggest a relationship between the placebo response and the opioid, cannabinoid, and monoaminergic systems. Likewise, a possible immune response conditioned by the placebo effect has been reported. There is evidence of immune suppression conditioned through the insular cortex and the amygdala, with noradrenalin as the responsible neurotransmitter. Finally, a conditioned response in the secretion of different hormones has been determined in different studies; however, the molecular mechanisms involved are not entirely known. Beyond studies about its mechanism of action, the placebo effect has proved to be useful in the clinical setting with promising results in the management of neurological, psychiatric, and immunologic disorders. However, more research is needed to better characterize its potential use. This review integrates current knowledge about the psycho-neuro-endocrine-immune basis of the placebo effect and its possible clinical applications.
Investigating Biomarkers for USH2A Retinopathy Using Multimodal Retinal Imaging
Authors: Gill Jasdeep S. , Theofylaktopoulos Vasileios , Mitsios Andreas , Houston Sarah , Hagag Ahmed M. , Dubis Adam M. , Moosajee Mariya
Published: April 2022

Pathogenic mutations in USH2A are a leading cause of visual loss secondary to non-syndromic or Usher syndrome-associated retinitis pigmentosa (RP). With an increasing number of RP-targeted clinical trials in progress, we sought to evaluate the photoreceptor topography underlying patterns of loss observed on clinical retinal imaging to guide surrogate endpoint selection in USH2A retinopathy. In this prospective cross-sectional study, twenty-five patients with molecularly confirmed USH2A-RP underwent fundus autofluorescence (FAF), spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and adaptive optics scanning laser ophthalmoscopy (AOSLO) retinal imaging. Analysis comprised measurement of FAF horizontal inner (IR) and outer (OR) hyperautofluorescent ring diameter; SD-OCT ellipsoid zone (EZ) and external limiting membrane (ELM) width, normalised EZ reflectance; AOSLO foveal cone density and intact macular photoreceptor mosaic (IMPM) diameter. Thirty-two eyes from 16 patients (mean age ± SD, 36.0 ± 14.2 years) with USH2A-associated Usher syndrome type 2 (n = 14) or non-syndromic RP (n = 2) met the inclusion criteria. Spatial alignment was observed between IR-EZ and OR-ELM diameters/widths (p < 0.001). The IMPM border occurred just lateral to EZ loss (p < 0.001), although sparser intact photoreceptor inner segments were detected until ELM disruption. EZ width and IR diameter displayed a biphasic relationship with cone density whereby slow cone loss occurred until retinal degeneration reached ~1350 μm from the fovea, beyond which greater reduction in cone density followed. Normalised EZ reflectance and cone density were significantly associated (p < 0.001). As the strongest correlate of cone density (p < 0.001) and best-corrected visual acuity (p < 0.001), EZ width is the most sensitive biomarker of structural and functional decline in USH2A retinopathy, rendering it a promising trial endpoint.
Heterologous Expression of Jatropha curcas Fatty Acyl-ACP Thioesterase A (JcFATA) and B (JcFATB) Affects Fatty Acid Accumulation and Promotes Plant Growth and Development in Arabidopsis
Authors: Liu Ying , Han Jing , Li Zhijie , Jiang Zuojie , Luo Liangfeng , Zhang Yingzhe , Chen Minghao , Yang Yuesheng , Liu Zhenlan
Published: April 2022

Plant fatty acyl-acyl carrier protein (ACP) thioesterases terminate the process of de novo fatty acid biosynthesis in plastids by hydrolyzing the acyl-ACP intermediates, and determine the chain length and levels of free fatty acids. They are of interest due to their roles in fatty acid synthesis and their potential to modify plant seed oils through biotechnology. Fatty acyl-ACP thioesterases (FAT) are divided into two families, i.e., FATA and FATB, according to their amino acid sequence and substrate specificity. The high oil content in Jatropha curcas L. seed has attracted global attention due to its potential for the production of biodiesel. However, the detailed effects of JcFATA and JcFATB on fatty acid biosynthesis and plant growth and development are still unclear. In this study, we found that JcFATB transcripts were detected in all tissues and organs examined, with especially high accumulation in the roots, leaves, flowers, and some stages of developing seeds, and JcFATA showed a very similar expression pattern. Subcellular localization of the JcFATA-GFP and JcFATB-GFP fusion protein in Arabidopsis leaf protoplasts showed that both JcFATA and JcFATB localized in chloroplasts. Heterologous expression of JcFATA and JcFATB in Arabidopsis thaliana individually generated transgenic plants with longer roots, stems and siliques, larger rosette leaves, and bigger seeds compared with those of the wild type, indicating the overall promotion effects of JcFATA and JcFATB on plant growth and development while JcFATB had a larger impact. Compositional analysis of seed oil revealed that all fatty acids except 22:0 were significantly increased in the mature seeds of JcFATA-transgenic Arabidopsis lines, especially unsaturated fatty acids, such as the predominant fatty acids of seed oil, 18:1, 18:2, and 18:3. In the mature seeds of the JcFATB-transgenic Arabidopsis lines, most fatty acids were increased compared with those in wild type too, especially saturated fatty acids, such as 16:0, 18:0, 20:0, and 22:0. Our results demonstrated the promotion effect of JcFATA and JcFATB on plant growth and development, and their possible utilization to modify the seed oil composition and content in higher plants.
Direct Reprograming of Mouse Fibroblasts into Dermal Papilla Cells via Small Molecules
Authors: Ma Yihe , Lin Yumiao , Huang Wenting , Wang Xusheng
Published: April 2022

The reprogramming of somatic fibroblasts into alternative cell linages could provide a promising source of cells for regenerative medicine and cell therapy. However, the direct conversion of fibroblasts into other functional cell types is still challenging. In this study, we show that dermal-papilla-cell-like cells (DPC-LCs) can be generated by treating fibroblasts, including L929 mouse fibroblast cell lines and somatic mouse fibroblasts, with small molecules. Based on alkaline phosphatase activity and other molecular markers, different compounds or their combinations are needed for converting the two different fibroblasts into DPC-LCs. Notably, we found that TTNPB alone can efficiently convert primary adult mouse fibroblasts into DPC-LCs. DPC-LCs generated from mouse fibroblasts showed a stronger hair-inducing capacity. Transcriptome analysis reveals that expression of genes associated with a hair-inducing capacity are increased in DPC-LCs. This pharmacological approach to generating functional dermal papilla cells may have many important implications for hair follicle regeneration and hair loss therapy.