bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ВИЗНАЧЕННЯ ЕФЕКТИВНОЇ СИСТЕМИ УДОБРЕННЯ БАТАТА ( IPOMOЕA BATАTAS) ДЛЯ ІНТЕНСИВНИХ ТА ОРГАНІЧНИХ ТЕХНОЛОГІЙ ВИРОЩУВАННЯ В УМОВАХ ЛІСОСТЕПУ УКРАЇНИ
Authors: Shevchenko S. V.
Published: April 2022

Мета. Встановити вплив різних систем удобрення на біометричні параметри рослин протягом всього періоду вегетації, урожайність та якість бульб за вирощування в умовах Лісостепу України. Методи: польові, лабораторні та розрахунково-статистичні дослідження. Результати. Наведено результати ефективності використання різних видів добрив та мікробних препаратів в технології вирощування батату (Ipomoea batatas) в умовах Лісостепу України. Доведено позитивну дію використання мінеральних добрив на ростові процеси рослин батату, особливо в першій половині вегетації. За використання органічних добрив активне наростання листко-стебельної маси зазначається в другій половині вегетації, що, більш за все пов’язане з поступовим надходженням елементів живлення до ґрунтового розчину за повільної мінералізації органічної речовини. Максимальне наростання площі листків батату відмічається на 40–70 день після висадки розсади. В третій декаді червня на початку розгалуження пагонів батату без використання добрив сформувалась мінімальна площа листків (1,68 тис. м2/га), за використання добрив даний показник складав 2,75–4,54 тис. м2/га в залежності від видів та доз добрив для сорту батату Слобожанський рубін максимальний рівень урожйності забезпечує внесення N370P370K450 в комплексі з позакореневими підживленнями «Нутрівант плюс універсальний» (20,65 т/га), також позитивний вплив мало застосування N185P185K225, що забезпечило врожайність 18,34 т/га. Для сорту Адмірал максимальний рівень урожайності отримано за використання органічних добрив, золи та комплексу мікробних препартів (10,45 т/га). Висновки. Використання мінеральних добрив зумовлює активне наростання вегетативної та кореневої маси, площі листкового апарату рослин батату впродовж всієї вегетації батату. За використання органічних добрив зазначається інтенсивне розвинення коренів рослин в другій половині вегетації та гальмування процесів формування листо-стебельної маси. Отже, для умов Лівобережного Лісостепу України для інтенсивних технологій вирощування батату краще використовувати дозу мінеральних добрив N185P185K225, що забезпечує зростання урожайності на 19,37-19,64 т/га (12,0–24,7%). Для технологій органічного виробництва для сорту Слобожанський рубін більш ефективним є застосування перегною 20 т/га та зола 1 т/га, для сорту Адмірал – у комплексі з мікробними препаратами, що забезпечує отримання прирост урожайності бульб на рівні 9,79-10,45 т/га (30,9-39,7%) відповідно.
Pelatihan Pengembangan Media Pembelajaran 3D Pada Guru PAUD Desa Gabusbanaran
Authors: Nasrulloh Muhammad Farid , Khotimah Khusnul , Apriliana Zumroturrohma Dwi , Muadhom Mokhamad Choirul , Puspasetya Titik Puspasetya
Published: April 2022

Early Childhood Education (PAUD) as preschool education is actually a new educational institution in Indonesia when compared to the existence of Kindergartens (TK) under the authority of the Ministry of Education and Culture, as well as Raudhatul Atfal (RA) under the responsibility of the Ministry of Religion. These two preschool educational institutions have been active in educating the nation's children through playing while learning. The purpose of community service regarding the implementation of 3D learning media for PAUD about animals is to achieve PAUD children's understanding of tame animals or wild animals. The approach or method used is Service Learning (SL). The Service Learning service method is one approach in teaching that combines academic goals in an effort to raise awareness in solving problems directly. Implementation of community service on the application of learning media about animals for PAUD students get satisfactory results. This is because when the process of applying the learning media, almost 80% of students take part in learning with enthusiasm. They were very enthusiastic about listening to the explanation from the community service maker because of the learning media that was packaged like a mini zoo so that students felt interested.
Penguatan Kompetensi Guru Melalui Pelatihan Dan Pendampingan Pembuatan Media Pembelajaran Kartu BiZi Bagi Guru Bahasa Arab Di Jombang
Authors: Nashoih Afif Kholisun , Fadhli Khotim , Taqiyuddin Akhmad , Khorib Abdul , Sholikhah Ima Niâ€™matus , Putriningtyas Chumairoh
Published: April 2022

The preservation of conservative traditional methods in learning Arabic at the elementary level is a classic problem that needs to be given a sustainable solution. The innovation and creativity of teachers in conveying information has an impact on the success of learning and or the achievement of learning objectives. Utilization of learning media is one solution to these problems. The results of this study became the issues raised in mentoring and training activities to make BiZi card learning media for teachers at MI Muhammadiyah Rejosopinggir Jombang, with the hope that Arabic language learning would become attractive and effective learning. The implementation of this community service uses the Community Based Research (CBR) method which is carried out through training and mentoring for teachers at MI Muhammadiyah Rejosopinggir for 5 days. The activity stages started with the presentation of material about the importance of learning media, the practice of designing computing-based cards, and making BiZi cards of various sizes, then closed with an evaluation. The results of this service indicate that teachers gain new motivation and knowledge in order to improve their competence in utilizing and using learning media. After the training was carried out, the Arabic learning process could take place in a pleasant atmosphere, and students seemed actively involved in learning. In the practice carried out during mentoring, the teacher began to apply arabic language skills which included maharah istima', kalam, qira'ah, and kitabah during the learning process. And in the practice carried out during mentoring, it is known that teachers are starting to facilitate more and more students to be actively involved in the learning process, because there is reciprocity with students.
Kegiatan Peningkatan Pengetahuan Masyarakat Melalui Pendidikan dan Pelatihan Kewirausahaan Di Desa Gejlik Pekalongan
Authors: Munadaroh Aisatul , Syaifuddin Mohammad , Winarto Wahid Wachyu Adi
Published: April 2022

The part that needs to be improved from the Gejlik Village community is increasing the community's ability to master knowledge in terms of entrepreneurship and how to market their products. The service team teaches regularly in Gejlik Village once a week, to be precise on Sundays, to improve the ability of the people in Gejlik Village. Continuous training is needed to have a profound effect on increasing these abilities. Teaching is carried out by a service team that has an educational background both from a scientific background and several successful entrepreneurial practitioners. The training has resulted in a significant improvement because this program has actually been going on for 2 months. The community's motivation to learn also becomes greater as evidenced by their great enthusiasm in practicing what is exemplified by the teacher. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that the implementation of this PKM has been effective. In addition, the knowledge of the village community towards the material that has been delivered has increased.
Pelatihan Memahami Fiqih Praktis Melalui Pembelajaran Kitab Fathul Qarib Di Pondok Pesantren Alif Lam Mim
Authors: Rikza Ghulam Akhyar , Raniasati Rifani , Musa Muhammad Maskur , Adila Amma Chorida , Tiara Elsa , Priyatun Inayah , Febriyanti Ayu , Handoyo Teguh , Chonitsa Ana , Salamah Siti , Amalia Adinda Riski , Adinugraha Hendri Hermawan
Published: April 2022

F
Fiqh has a very broad scope of study and has high urgency. Unfortunately, many of the younger generation neglect and even underestimate the basic laws of fiqh, such as procedures for purification, prayer procedures, and others. A human being will certainly feel the need for fiqh along with his awareness as a Muslim, especially for a student who is an agent of change and is seen as intellectuals. This training aims to increase students' understanding and awareness of practical fiqh through studying the book of Fathul Qarib. The learning method carried out in this activity is using the bandongan method, and asking the bandongan method is a method in teaching the yellow book in which the kyai or ustadz reads, translates and explains the yellow book, then students listen and write the translation (ngapsahi). While the question and answer method is a method that is also carried out by providing opportunities to ask questions in accordance with the chapters discussed in the study of the Fathul Qarib book, the question and answer method is carried out after the bandongan.answer method. Based on the results of the Fathul Qarib training activities at the Alif Lam Mim Islamic boarding school, it can be concluded that. students can evaluate themselves regarding their understanding of practical fiqh. The students can also add and improve knowledge and understanding of the science of fiqh. From this learning, the students can apply the science of fiqh in everyday life correctly and in accordance with existing laws.
Pineal melatonin deprivation alters the mRNA expression of melatonin and steroidogenic-related receptor genes in rat oviduct and uterus during the estrus stage of estrous cycle
Authors: Coelho Lia A , Gomes Patrícia R.L , Scialfa Julieta H , Maganhin Carla C , Soares Jr. José M , Amaral Fernanda G , Reiter Russel J. , Cipolla-Neto José
Published: April 2022

The effects of pinealectomy and melatonin replacement therapy on the mRNA expression of melatonin (Mt1, Mt2 and Rora), steroidogenic (Era - Estrogen a, Erb - Estrogen b, Ar - Androgen, Pgr - Progesterone, Lhr - LH and Oxr - Oxytocin receptors) -related receptors and melatonin-synthetic enzyme genes (Tph1, Asmt and Aanat) in oviduct and uterus of Wistar rats were studied. Tissues were collected from sham-pinealectomized (Control), pinealectomized (Pinx) and Pinx plus melatonin- supplemented (Pinx-Mel) females during the estrus stage of both the light (ZT6) and dark (ZT18) phases of the light-dark cycle. In oviduct, Pinx altered the mRNA expression of Mt1, Mt2, Rora, Era, Pgr, Oxr, Asmt and Aanat genes. In uterus, Pinx altered the mRNA expression of Mt1, Mt2, Rora, Lhr, Pgr, Oxr and Tph1 genes. Melatonin treatment partially or completely restored the Mt2, Rora, Era, Oxr, Asmt and Aanat mRNA expressions in oviduct and the Mt1, Mt2 and Rora mRNA expressions in uterus. These alterations varied according to the phase of light-dark cycle. The results suggest that pineal melatonin regulates the daily mRNA expression of melatonin and steroidogenic-related receptors in the rat oviduct and uterus during the estrus stage of estrous cycle. Melatonin also regulates the daily mRNA expression of Asmt and Aanat in oviduct and Tph1 in uterus.
Melatonin as a microenvironmental cue for parasite development inside the host
Authors: Honorio Rute Isabel , Dias Barbara Karina Menezes , Przyborski Jude Marek , Garcia Celia Regina
Published: April 2022

Throughout the evolutionary process, parasites have

acquired characteristics that function as survival mechanisms. It has been

reported that melatonin, a molecule present in virtually all living organisms,

has several roles in parasite biology such as preventing tissue damage,

regulating gene expression and inflammatory processes, and acting as a free

radical scavenger.  Additionally,

melatonin produced by the hosts accelerates the intra-erythrocytic cycle of the

human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum and the rodent malaria

parasite P. chabaudi, respectively. These findings have recently led to

an increased research enthusiasm to find how melatonin influences the

biological cycle of parasites. Therefore, this review aims to gather and

analyze the potential relationships of host produced melatonin with the

parasites Plasmodium sp., Trypanosoma cruzi, Leishmania

spp., Toxoplasma gondii, Schistosoma mansoni, Opisthorchis viverrini, and Entamoeba

histolytica, respectively.
Enzymatic Biocatalysis of Biomass from Aquatic Plant Phragmite Karka for Second-Generation Bioethanol Production
Authors: Kouwanou Cosme Sagbo , Adjou Euloge Sènan , Agbangnan Dossa Cokou Pascal , Koko Sohounhloué Dominique Codjo
Published: April 2022

In the context of energy transition and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, the production of second-generation bioethanol is also recognized as a promising way to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. Then, the present studies aim to evaluate the enzymatic biocatalysis of biomass from aquatic plant Phragmite karka in the second-generation bioethanol production. Results obtained revealed a rapid decrease of °Brix during the fermentation of musts and underlined the efficacy of enzyme hydrolysis. The rate of sugar consumption by yeasts is between 32.43 and 70.27%. The yield of ethanol production of yeasts indicated that Angel Brand Thermal-tolerant alcohol active dry yeast was the best yeast strain for this fermentation. These findings underline the potential of Phragmite karka plant materials in the perspective of intensive production of second-generation bioethanol.
ESG-Based Sustainability Performance and its Impact on Cost of Capital: International Evidence from the Energy Sector
Authors: Yilmaz Ilker
Published: April 2022

The purpose of this article is to examine the impact of firms’ sustainability performance, measured through their ESG (environmental, social, and governance) scores, on their cost of capital. Using the data of 125 companies from 24 countries for an eleven-year period from 2009 to 2019, we run panel data regressions to find out the impact of ESG scores on two measures of cost of capital: cost of debt, and cost of equity. We run pooled and panel regressions. The results reveal an inverse relationship between cost of capital and overall ESG scores. As a robustness check, we run the analyses according to the generalized method of moments, leading to similar results. For the individual scores of the environmental, social, and governance pillars, the results are mixed. The results imply that companies should adopt a holistic approach and engage in all dimensions of sustainability.
Impact of Infrastructure and Institutional Quality on Economic Growth in ECOWAS Countries
Authors: Funlayo Akeju Kemi , Jeremiah OLUSANJO Oluwaseun , Thomas AKODE
Published: April 2022

Developing countries are often faced with poor infrastructure and inadequate social welfare. It is debatable how much of these are needed for growth and what role institutional quality plays. Previous studies over decades have identified the significance of infrastructure in the growth and development of countries and regions, with most research focussing on the effect of aggregate infrastructure on economic growth. The literature on infrastructure’s role in economic growth is extended by the inclusion of access to electricity, the internet, and water supply and their effect on economic growth using recent data from 2006 to 2020 on ECOWAS countries. A structural model of growth is built with consideration of the role of institutional quality at the regional level. A one-step difference Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) estimation technique is employed to control the issue of endogeneity resulting in a negative relationship between physical infrastructure and growth. The pooled panel result reveals that interaction between infrastructural and institutional quality negatively impacts economic growth, while variant estimates of government effectiveness as an institutional quality have a positive impact on growth.
The Impact of Workplace Interpersonal Conflict on Job Performance, Job Depression and Turnover Intention
Authors: Beenish Khan  , Amir Azam
Published: April 2022

The objective of the current study is to check the impact of workplace interpersonal conflict’s impact on job performance, job depression and turnover intention. The current study is been set to make cross sectional analysis of employees working in both public and private organizations. A pre-planned and well-structured questioner is been designed and provided to 350 respondents. 215 respondents returned the fill questioners. Simple statistical tools are been used to find the demographic features and average behavior of the respondents. Regression technique is been used for hypothesis testing and inferential statistics. The findings of regression analysis showed the interpersonal conflicts reduces job performance. Increase in interpersonal conflict increase the job depression. The impact of interpersonal conflict on turnover intention is been observed positive and statistically significant at 1%. All three-null hypotheses are been rejected while alternative hypotheses are been accepted. The moderating and mediating factors i.e. organizational maturity and supervisor behavior help reducing the interpersonal conflicts. It is been suggested that the organization need to promote employees frankly strategies and policies.
How Providing the Opportunity for Industries to Compete Benefits the Pavement Market : And How Agencies Can Use it to Lower their Pavement Cost
Authors: Mack James , Wathne Leif
Published: April 2022

In 2018, the U.S. spent an estimated $187 billion on its highways and roadways, with the majority of funding coming from state and local governments (~$141B from states and local governments vs ~$45B from the Federal Government) (Urban Institute, n.d.) Despite this enormous outlay of funds, the U.S. highway infrastructure needs are at an all-time high. The road system earned a D grade from the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) on their 2021 report card, which is the same grade roads have received on every ASCE Report Card. Over 40% of U.S. roadways are in a poor/deficient condition and the number of vehicle miles traveling on roads in “poor” condition has risen from 15% to more than 17% over the last decade. Overall, there is about a $435 billion backlog of highway road repair projects and the poor US road system is costing the country an additional $130 billion in extra vehicle repairs and operating costs, or over $1,000 per motorist per year (ASCE, 2021) Improvement of the system is needed and the primary approach to address this challenge to date has been to increase funding. While more funding is needed, agencies also need to find ways to be more efficient within their constrained budgets in order to get more out of their roadway and pavement investments. This paper will show how competition in the pavement bidding process and across paving industries can bring value to Transportation Agencies by lowering pavement unit costs.
COMPARATIVE STUDY THROUGH TESTS OF THE DIFFERENT CONCRETE PAVEMENT SYSTEMS
Authors: M. Lago Carrera Jose , Badaoui Aida
Published: April 2022

When the design of a concrete pavement is addressed, one of the most important points is to determine which type is the most appropriate to satisfy the requirements. Based on the classification of concrete pavements indicated in ACI 360[1] (Plain concrete, continuously reinforced (bars or welded wire reinforcement), fiber reinforced concrete, shrinkage- compensating and post-tensioned), a series of tests have been developed that allow us to establish a comparison at the level of load capacity. To evaluate the capacity to bending and shear a battery of tests were performed including a beam test and square slab testing. Different systems were designed: Continuously reinforced, steel and macro-synthetic fibers, combined solutions, post-tensioned and shrinkage-compensating concrete pavement. The results show that with an equal amount of steel the load capacity of the continuously reinforced is more than 50\% higher than the fiber, and this difference increases when increasing thickness. With equal volume of fiber, the capacity with steel fiber is 25\% higher than the synthetic. In Shrinkage-compensating, an expansion of 300 microns/meter was generated, increasing the flexural strength at 0.3 Mpa, improving load capacity and energy absorption. In the post-tensioning system, an effective post-tensioning tension of 2 Mpa was introduced and, consequently, this increase was observed in the appearance of the first crack. In the square slab test the formation and development of the yield lines was observed. Based on the results of the tests and having analyzed the ACI 360 and TR34 to determine the moment capacity of fiber-reinforced concrete and continuously reinforced, it is considered that in the case of continuously reinforced the guides should incorporate a nonlinear method with plasticity considering the ultimate tensile strength of steel. In this way, the comparison between both systems would be closer to reality. Considering only moment capacity and punching shear capacity, it is concluded that solutions with continuous reinforcement (bars or welded wire reinforcement) are more effective for high loads than fibers.
Financing Stipend: The Post-Reformation Established Church in Edinburgh
Authors: Sawkins John W.
Published: April 2022

This paper describes and analyses the means by which the stipends of the established church’s ministers in Scotland’s capital city were financed from the time of the Reformation to the passing of the Church of Scotland (Property and Endowments) Act in 1925. Offering a preliminary calibration with commentary on the operation of the ministerial labour market, it throws new light on our understanding of the established church functioning as a business organisation, at a time when it was highly influential in the political, economic, social and religious life of the nation.
THE COST OF RULING: AN EXPLORATION IN U.S. GUBERNATORIAL ELECTIONS
Authors: Heggen Richard , Cuzan Alfred
Published: April 2022

The cost of ruling is a well-established inductive law in political science. In the developed democracies, incumbent parties incur a penalty of 2 to 3 percentage points per term, on average. We argue that this estimate obscures the fact that the share of the vote going to the incumbents does not decrease the longer they stay in office. Rather, as long as they are re-elected, incumbents win about the same share of the vote. This stays relatively constant until they are defeated, at which time the loss averages 12 percentage points independent of the number of terms the party has been in control.
Phytonutrients in Red Amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus, L.) and Feed Ratios Enhanced Rumen Fermentation Dynamics, Suppress Protozoal Population, and Methane Production
Authors: Ampapon Thiwakorn , Viennasay Bounnaxay , Matra Maharach , Totakul Pajaree , Wanapat Metha
Published: April 2022

The search for alternative modifiers of rumen fermentation to improve the production efficiency of livestock production is highly essential. Thisin vitrofermentation experiment was conducted using a factorial arrangement of two ratios of roughage to concentrate and seven levels of red amaranth (Amaranthus cruentusL.) leaf powder (RALP) as a percentage of total substrate in a completely randomized design (CRD). There were two factors: factor A was two ratios of roughage (R) to concentrate (C) at 60:40 and 40:60 and factor B was levels of RALP supplementation at 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12% dry matter (DM) of total dietary substrate. The results revealed that a R:C ratio at 40:60 increased rumen fermentation and reduced methane production (p< 0.05). The RALP incorporation as a feed additive was highly promising in enhancing propionate (C3) concentration, reducing acetate (C2) to (C3) ratio, and the protozoal population, while mitigating methane (CH4) production. Furthermore, DM degradation percentages were remarkably enhanced by increasing the RALP levels and R:C ratio at 40:60. In conclusion, plants rich in phytonutrients and minerals such as RALP and the lower R:C ratio showed a promising role in modulating rumen fermentation, mitigating methane production, as well as increasing substrate DM degradability.
Improved Mobilome Delineation in Fragmented Genomes
Authors: Mageeney Catherine M. , Trubl Gareth , Williams Kelly P.
Published: April 2022

The mobilome of a microbe, i.e., its set of mobile elements, has major effects on its ecology, and is important to delineate properly in each genome. This becomes more challenging for incomplete genomes, and even more so for metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs), where misbinning of scaffolds and other losses can occur. Genomic islands (GIs), which integrate into the host chromosome, are a major component of the mobilome. Our GI-detection software TIGER, unique in its precise mapping of GI termini, was applied to 74,561 genomes from 2,473 microbial species, each species containing at least one MAG and one isolate genome. A species-normalized deficit of ∼1.6 GIs/genome was measured for MAGs relative to isolates. To test whether this undercount was due to the higher fragmentation of MAG genomes, TIGER was updated to enable detection of split GIs whose termini are on separate scaffolds or that wrap around the origin of a circular replicon. This doubled GI yields, and the new split GIs matched the quality of single-scaffold GIs, except that highly fragmented GIs may lack central portions. Cross-scaffold search is an important upgrade to GI detection as fragmented genomes increasingly dominate public databases. TIGER2 better captures MAG microdiversity, recovering niche-defining GIs and supporting microbiome research aims such as virus-host linking and ecological assessment.
Altered Muscle Contributions are Required to Support the Stance Limb During Voluntary Toe-Walking
Authors: De Pieri Enrico , Romkes Jacqueline , Wyss Christian , Brunner Reinald , Viehweger Elke
Published: April 2022

Toe-walking characterizes several neuromuscular conditions and is associated with a reduction in gait stability and efficiency, as well as in life quality. The optimal choice of treatment depends on a correct understanding of the underlying pathology and on the individual biomechanics of walking. The objective of this study was to describe gait deviations occurring in a cohort of healthy adult subjects when mimicking a unilateral toe-walking pattern compared to their normal heel-to-toe gait pattern. The focus was to characterize the functional adaptations of the major lower-limb muscles which are required in order to toe walk. Musculoskeletal modeling was used to estimate the required muscle contributions to the joint sagittal moments. The support moment, defined as the sum of the sagittal extensive moments at the ankle, knee, and hip joints, was used to evaluate the overall muscular effort necessary to maintain stance limb stability and prevent the collapse of the knee. Compared to a normal heel-to-toe gait pattern, toe-walking was characterized by significantly different lower-limb kinematics and kinetics. The altered kinetic demands at each joint translated into different necessary moment contributions from most muscles. In particular, an earlier and prolonged ankle plantarflexion contribution was required from the soleus and gastrocnemius during most of the stance phase. The hip extensors had to provide a higher extensive moment during loading response, while a significantly higher knee extension contribution from the vasti was necessary during mid-stance. Compensatory muscular activations are therefore functionally required at every joint level in order to toe walk. A higher support moment during toe-walking indicates an overall higher muscular effort necessary to maintain stance limb stability and prevent the collapse of the knee. Higher muscular demands during gait may lead to fatigue, pain, and reduced quality of life. Toe-walking is indeed associated with significantly larger muscle forces exerted by the quadriceps to the patella and prolonged force transmission through the Achilles tendon during stance phase. Optimal treatment options should therefore account for muscular demands and potential overloads associated with specific compensatory mechanisms.
3D Bioprinted Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering: State-Of-The-Art and Emerging Technologies
Authors: Yazdanpanah Zahra , Johnston James D. , Cooper David M. L. , Chen Xiongbiao
Published: April 2022

Treating large bone defects, known as critical-sized defects (CSDs), is challenging because they are not spontaneously healed by the patient’s body. Due to the limitations associated with conventional bone grafts, bone tissue engineering (BTE), based on three-dimensional (3D) bioprinted scaffolds, has emerged as a promising approach for bone reconstitution and treatment. Bioprinting technology allows for incorporation of living cells and/or growth factors into scaffolds aiming to mimic the structure and properties of the native bone. To date, a wide range of biomaterials (either natural or synthetic polymers), as well as various cells and growth factors, have been explored for use in scaffold bioprinting. However, a key challenge that remains is the fabrication of scaffolds that meet structure, mechanical, and osteoconductive requirements of native bone and support vascularization. In this review, we briefly present the latest developments and discoveries of CSD treatment by means of bioprinted scaffolds, with a focus on the biomaterials, cells, and growth factors for formulating bioinks and their bioprinting techniques. Promising state-of-the-art pathways or strategies recently developed for bioprinting bone scaffolds are highlighted, including the incorporation of bioactive ceramics to create composite scaffolds, the use of advanced bioprinting technologies (e.g., core/shell bioprinting) to form hybrid scaffolds or systems, as well as the rigorous design of scaffolds by taking into account of the influence of such parameters as scaffold pore geometry and porosity. We also review in-vitro assays and in-vivo models to track bone regeneration, followed by a discussion of current limitations associated with 3D bioprinting technologies for BTE. We conclude this review with emerging approaches in this field, including the development of gradient scaffolds, four-dimensional (4D) printing technology via smart materials, organoids, and cell aggregates/spheroids along with future avenues for related BTE.
Biomechanical Effect of Coronal Alignment and Ligament Laxity in Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Simulation Study
Authors: Ro Jaehun , Ro Du Hyun , Kang Yeokyung , Han Hyuk-Soo , Shin Choongsoo S.
Published: April 2022

The purposes of this study were to develop a cruciate-retaining total knee arthroplasty musculoskeletal model, which enables the adjustment of ligament length and implant alignment; validate the model; and evaluate the effects of varus/valgus alignment adjustment and unbalanced medial/lateral ligament laxity during gait. A cruciate-retaining total knee arthroplasty musculoskeletal model was constructed and validated against the in vivo contact forces. This model was transformed to 2° varus/valgus alignment of femoral or tibial replacement models and 2° medial/lateral laxity models. The contact forces and ligament tensions of the adjusted models were calculated. The contact forces in the model showed good agreement with the in vivo contact forces. Valgus replacement alignment with balanced ligament models showed a lower contact force at the medial compartment than at the neutral alignment model, whereas the varus replacement alignment with balanced ligament models showed a greater contact force at the medial compartment and medial/posterior cruciate ligament tension. The medial laxity with neutral alignment model showed a similar contact force with decreased medial ligament tension compared to the balanced neutral alignment model, whereas the lateral laxity with the neutral alignment model showed a greater contact force and decreased lateral ligament tension. The cruciate-retaining total knee arthroplasty model was validated using in vivo contact forces (r = 0.939) Two degrees of valgus alignment adjustment with balanced ligament or neutral alignment with 2° of medial laxity can be safe without increasing contact force or ligament tension compared to neutral alignment with a balanced extension gap. However, 2° of varus alignment adjustment with balanced ligament or neutral alignment with 2° of lateral laxity may be unfavorable due to the overloading of the joints and knee ligaments.
Low-Illumination Image Enhancement Algorithm Based on Improved Multi-Scale Retinex and ABC Algorithm Optimization
Authors: Sun Ying , Zhao Zichen , Jiang Du , Tong Xiliang , Tao Bo , Jiang Guozhang , Kong Jianyi , Yun Juntong , Liu Ying , Liu Xin , Zhao Guojun , Fang Zifan
Published: April 2022

In order to solve the problems of poor image quality, loss of detail information and excessive brightness enhancement during image enhancement in low light environment, we propose a low-light image enhancement algorithm based on improved multi-scale Retinex and Artificial Bee Colony (ABC) algorithm optimization in this paper. First of all, the algorithm makes two copies of the original image, afterwards, the irradiation component of the original image is obtained by used the structure extraction from texture via relative total variation for the first image, and combines it with the multi-scale Retinex algorithm to obtain the reflection component of the original image, which are simultaneously enhanced using histogram equalization, bilateral gamma function correction and bilateral filtering. In the next part, the second image is enhanced by histogram equalization and edge-preserving with Weighted Guided Image Filtering (WGIF). Finally, the weight-optimized image fusion is performed by ABC algorithm. The mean values of Information Entropy (IE), Average Gradient (AG) and Standard Deviation (SD) of the enhanced images are respectively 7.7878, 7.5560 and 67.0154, and the improvement compared to original image is respectively 2.4916, 5.8599 and 52.7553. The results of experiment show that the algorithm proposed in this paper improves the light loss problem in the image enhancement process, enhances the image sharpness, highlights the image details, restores the color of the image, and also reduces image noise with good edge preservation which enables a better visual perception of the image.
Microbial Utilization of Next-Generation Feedstocks for the Biomanufacturing of Value-Added Chemicals and Food Ingredients
Authors: Zhang Congqiang , Ottenheim Christoph , Weingarten Melanie , Ji LiangHui
Published: April 2022

Global shift to sustainability has driven the exploration of alternative feedstocks beyond sugars for biomanufacturing. Recently, C1 (CO2, CO, methane, formate and methanol) and C2 (acetate and ethanol) substrates are drawing great attention due to their natural abundance and low production cost. The advances in metabolic engineering, synthetic biology and industrial process design have greatly enhanced the efficiency that microbes use these next-generation feedstocks. The metabolic pathways to use C1 and C2 feedstocks have been introduced or enhanced into industrial workhorses, such as Escherichia coli and yeasts, by genetic rewiring and laboratory evolution strategies. Furthermore, microbes are engineered to convert these low-cost feedstocks to various high-value products, ranging from food ingredients to chemicals. This review highlights the recent development in metabolic engineering, the challenges in strain engineering and bioprocess design, and the perspectives of microbial utilization of C1 and C2 feedstocks for the biomanufacturing of value-added products.
Nutrient Transporter Gene Expression in the Early Conceptus—Implications From Two Mouse Models of Diabetic Pregnancy
Authors: Kappen Claudia , Kruger Claudia , Jones Sydney , Salbaum J. Michael
Published: April 2022

Maternal diabetes in early pregnancy increases the risk for birth defects in the offspring, particularly heart, and neural tube defects. While elevated glucose levels are characteristic for diabetic pregnancies, these are also accompanied by hyperlipidemia, indicating altered nutrient availability. We therefore investigated whether changes in the expression of nutrient transporters at the conception site or in the early post-implantation embryo could account for increased birth defect incidence at later developmental stages. Focusing on glucose and fatty acid transporters, we measured their expression by RT-PCR in the spontaneously diabetic non-obese mouse strain NOD, and in pregnant FVB/N mouse strain dams with Streptozotocin-induced diabetes. Sites of expression in the deciduum, extra-embryonic, and embryonic tissues were determined by RNAscope in situ hybridization. While maternal diabetes had no apparent effects on levels or cellular profiles of expression, we detected striking cell-type specificity of particular nutrient transporters. For examples, Slc2a2/Glut2 expression was restricted to the endodermal cells of the visceral yolk sac, while Slc2a1/Glut1 expression was limited to the mesodermal compartment; Slc27a4/Fatp4 and Slc27a3/Fatp3 also exhibited reciprocally exclusive expression in the endodermal and mesodermal compartments of the yolk sac, respectively. These findings not only highlight the significance of nutrient transporters in the intrauterine environment, but also raise important implications for the etiology of birth defects in diabetic pregnancies, and for strategies aimed at reducing birth defects risk by nutrient supplementation.
Cold-Induced Lipoprotein Clearance in Cyp7b1-Deficient Mice
Authors: Evangelakos Ioannis , Kuhl Anastasia , Baguhl Miriam , Schlein Christian , John Clara , Rohde Julia K. , Heine Markus , Heeren Joerg , Worthmann Anna
Published: April 2022

Brown adipose tissue (BAT) has emerged as an appealing therapeutic target for cardio metabolic diseases. BAT is a heat-producing organ and upon activation substantially lowers hyperlipidemia. In response to cold exposure, not only the uptake of lipids into BAT is increased but also the Cyp7b1-mediated synthesis of bile acids (BA) from cholesterol in the liver is triggered. In addition to their role for intestinal lipid digestion, BA act as endocrine signals that can activate thermogenesis in BAT. When exposed to cold temperatures, Cyp7b1−/− mice have compromised BAT function along with reduced fecal bile acid levels. Here, we aim to evaluate the role of Cyp7b1 for BAT-dependent lipid clearance. Using metabolic studies with radioactive tracers, we show that in response to a cold stimulus, BAT-mediated clearance of fatty acids derived from triglyceride-rich lipoproteins (TRL), and their remnants are reduced in Cyp7b1−/− mice. The impaired lipid uptake can be explained by reduced BAT lipoprotein lipase (LPL) levels and compromised organ activity in Cyp7b1−/− mice, which may be linked to impaired insulin signaling. Overall, our findings reveal that alterations of systemic lipoprotein metabolism mediated by cold-activated BAT are dependent, at least in part, on CYP7Β1.
Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells Ameliorate Kidney Injury in MRL/Ipr Mice Through the TGF-β1 Pathway
Authors: Huang Chunkai , Meng Mingyao , Li Shuo , Liu Shiyuan , Li Lin , Su Yanjun , Gao Hui , He Shan , Zhao Yiyi , Zhang Min , Hou Zongliu , Wang Wenju , Wang Xiaodan
Published: April 2022

The therapeutic effects and mechanism of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSC) on kidney injury in MRL/Ipr mice were studied. UC-MSC, methylprednisolone (MP), and their combination were used to treat MRL/Ipr mice. The therapeutic effects were evaluated by renal function assessment, and HE, PAS, and Masson staining were carried out on renal tissues and visualized by electron microscopy. Subsequently, podocyte injury was detected by the presence of podocin in renal tissues by immunofluorescence. To further explore the mechanism, serum TGF-β1 was measured, and TGF-β1, p-Smad3, and TRAF6 in the renal tissue were detected by Western blotting. In vitro, TGF-β1 was used to stimulate podocytes, and the podocyte activity and changes in synaptopodin were observed after UC-MSC treatment. Significant improvements in renal function and pathological injury were observed in the UC-MSC group compared to the lupus nephritis (LN) model group. UC-MSC and MP treatment improved podocyte injury in MRL/Ipr mice. Western blot examination showed a significant increase in TGF-β1, p-Smad3, and TRAF6 expression in renal tissues of the LN model group, while significant downregulation of those proteins was observed in the UC-MSC group. After TGF-β1 stimulation in vitro, podocyte activity decreased, and UC-MSC treatment improved podocyte activity and restored synaptopodin expression. UC-MSC therapy could improve the deterioration of renal function and the pathological changes of the renal tissues in MRL/Ipr mice. Our study suggested that UC-MSC may improve kidney injury and podocyte injury in LN mice by inhibiting the TGF-β1 pathway.
Intermediate Filaments in Cellular Mechanoresponsiveness: Mediating Cytoskeletal Crosstalk From Membrane to Nucleus and Back
Authors: Ndiaye Anne-Betty , Koenderink Gijsje H. , Shemesh Michal
Published: April 2022

The mammalian cytoskeleton forms a mechanical continuum that spans across the cell, connecting the cell surface to the nucleus via transmembrane protein complexes in the plasma and nuclear membranes. It transmits extracellular forces to the cell interior, providing mechanical cues that influence cellular decisions, but also actively generates intracellular forces, enabling the cell to probe and remodel its tissue microenvironment. Cells adapt their gene expression profile and morphology to external cues provided by the matrix and adjacent cells as well as to cell-intrinsic changes in cytoplasmic and nuclear volume. The cytoskeleton is a complex filamentous network of three interpenetrating structural proteins: actin, microtubules, and intermediate filaments. Traditionally the actin cytoskeleton is considered the main contributor to mechanosensitivity. This view is now shifting owing to the mounting evidence that the three cytoskeletal filaments have interdependent functions due to cytoskeletal crosstalk, with intermediate filaments taking a central role. In this Mini Review we discuss how cytoskeletal crosstalk confers mechanosensitivity to cells and tissues, with a particular focus on the role of intermediate filaments. We propose a view of the cytoskeleton as a composite structure, in which cytoskeletal crosstalk regulates the local stability and organization of all three filament families at the sub-cellular scale, cytoskeletal mechanics at the cellular scale, and cell adaptation to external cues at the tissue scale.
Synthesis and Evaluation of a Non-Peptide Small-Molecule Drug Conjugate Targeting Integrin αVβ3
Authors: Paulus Jannik , Sewald Norbert
Published: April 2022

An integrin αVβ3-targeting linear RGD mimetic containing a small-molecule drug conjugate (SMDC) was synthesized by combining the antimitotic agent monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE), an enzymatically cleavable Val-Ala-PABC linker with a linear conjugable RGD mimetic. The structure proposal for the conjugable RGD mimetic was suggested upon the DAD mapping analysis of a previously synthesized small-molecule RGD mimetic array based on a tyrosine scaffold. Therefore, a diversifying strategy was developed as well as a novel method for the partial hydrogenation of pyrimidines in the presence of the hydrogenolytically cleavable Cbz group. The small-molecule RGD mimetics were evaluated in an ELISA-like assay, and the structural relationships were analyzed by DAD mapping revealing activity differences induced by structural changes as visualized in dependence on special structural motifs. This provided a lead structure for generation of an SMDC containing the antimitotic drug MMAE. The resulting SMDC containing a linear RGD mimetic was tested in a cell adhesion and an in vitro cell viability assay in comparison to reference SMDCs containing cRGDfK or cRADfK as the homing device. The linear RGD SMDC and the cRGDfK SMDC inhibited adhesion of αVβ3-positive WM115 cells to vitronectin with IC50 values in the low µM range, while no effect was observed for the αVβ3-negative M21-L cell line. The cRADfK SMDC used as a negative control was about 30-fold less active in the cell adhesion assay than the cRGDfK SMDC. Conversely, both the linear RGD SMDC and the cRGDfK SMDC are about 55-fold less cytotoxic than MMAE against the αVβ3-positive WM115 cell line with IC50 values in the nM range, while the cRADfK SMDC is 150-fold less cytotoxic than MMAE. Hence, integrin binding also influences the antiproliferative activity giving a targeting index of 2.8.
From Mouth to Brain: Distinct Supragingival Plaque Microbiota Composition in Cerebral Palsy Children With Caries
Authors: Liu Mingxiao , Shi Yuhan , Wu Kaibin , Xie Wei , Ser Hooi-Leng , Jiang Qianzhou , Wu Lihong
Published: April 2022

Children with cerebral palsy (CP) present a higher prevalence and severity of caries. Although researchers have studied multiple risk factors for caries in CP, the role of microorganisms in caries remains one of the critical factors worth exploring. In order to explore the differences in the supragingival plaque microbiota (SPM), supragingival plaque samples were collected from 55 CP children and 23 non-CP children for 16S rRNA sequencing. Distinct SPM composition was found between CP children with severe caries (CPCS) and non-CP children with severe caries (NCPCS). Further subanalysis was also done to identify if there were any differences in SPM among CP children with different degrees of caries, namely, caries-free (CPCF), mild to moderate caries (CPCM), and severe caries (CPCS). After selecting the top 15 most abundant species in all groups, we found that CPCS was significantly enriched for Fusobacterium nucleatum, Prevotella intermedia, Campylobacter rectus, Porphyromonas endodontalis, Catonella morbi, Alloprevotella tannerae, Parvimonas micra, Streptobacillus moniliformis, and Porphyromonas canoris compared to NCPCS. By comparing CPCF, CPCM, and CPCS, we found that the core caries-associated microbiota in CP children included Prevotella, Alloprevotella, Actinomyces, Catonella, and Streptobacillus, while Capnocytophaga and Campylobacter were dental health-associated microbiota in CP children. Alpha diversity analysis showed no significant difference between NCPCS and CPCS, but the latter had a much simpler core correlation network than that of NCPCS. Among CP children, CPCM and CPCF displayed lower bacterial diversity and simpler correlation networks than those of CPCS. In summary, the study showed the specific SPM characteristics of CPCS compared to NCPCS and revealed the core SPM in CP children with different severities of caries (CPCF, CPCM, and CPCS) and their correlation network. Hopefully, the study would shed light on better caries prevention and therapies for CP children. Findings from the current study offer exciting insights that warrant larger cohort studies inclusive of saliva and feces samples to investigate the potential pathogenic role of oral microbiota through the oral–gut–brain axis in CP children with caries.
Recent Progress Towards a Gonococcal Vaccine
Authors: Maurakis Stavros A. , Cornelissen Cynthia Nau
Published: April 2022

Gonorrhea is a global health concern. Its etiological agent, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, rapidly acquires antimicrobial resistance and does not confer protective immunity as a consequence of infection. Attempts to generate an effective vaccine for gonorrhea have thus far been unsuccessful, as many structures on the bacterial envelope have the propensity to rapidly change, thus complicating recognition by the human immune system. In response to recent efforts from global health authorities to spur the efforts towards development of a vaccine, several new and promising steps have been made towards this goal, aided by advancements in computational epitope identification and prediction methods. Here, we provide a short review of recent progress towards a viable gonococcal vaccine, with a focus on antigen identification and characterization, and discuss a few of the tools that may be important in furthering these efforts.