bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hey Leaders, It’s Time to Train the Workforce: Critical Skills in the Digital Workplace
Authors: Weritz Pauline
Published: August 2022

Businesses are confronted with digital challenges and require skilled employees to work effectively in the digital workplace. Drawing on the theoretical background of digital workplace transformation and the conceptual learning framework, we conducted a qualitative study. With the help of a cross-case analysis of nine multinational corporations, we provide a skillset for leaders on how to train the workforce in the digital workplace. The insights showed that an entrepreneurial mindset, digital responsible thinking, digital literacy, transformative skills, personal development skills, communication skills, community management skills, data analytic skills, and web development skills are critical in the digital workplace. These findings contribute to the literature by offering an exploratory understanding of essential skills for the digital workplace. Furthermore, we provide a theoretical foundation for future empirical investigations of cognitive and metacognitive, social-emotional, and practical skills. The study also offers practical implications for businesses and leaders on how to upskill the workforce and what kind of employees to recruit in the future workplace.
An Update on Applications of Cattle Mesenchymal Stromal Cells
Authors: Merlo Barbara , Gugole Penelope Maria , Iacono Eleonora
Published: August 2022

Attention on mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) research has increased in the last decade mainly due to the promising results about their plasticity, self-renewal, differentiation potential, immune modulatory and anti-inflammatory properties that have made stem cell therapy more clinically attractive. Furthermore, MSCs can be easily isolated and expanded to be used for autologous or allogenic therapy following the administration of either freshly isolated or previously cryopreserved cells. The scientific literature on the use of stromal cells in the treatment of several animal health conditions is currently available. Although MSCs are not as widely used for clinical treatments in cows as for companion and sport animals, they have the potential to be employed to improve productivity in the cattle industry. This review provides an update on state-of-the-art applications of bovine MSCs to clinical treatments and reproductive biotechnologies.
Virulence Genes of Pathogenic Escherichia coli in Wild Red Foxes (Vulpes vulpes)
Authors: Bertelloni Fabrizio , Cagnoli Giulia , Biagini Fabrizio , Poli Alessandro , Bibbiani Carlo , Ebani Valentina Virginia
Published: August 2022

Different pathotypes of Escherichia coli can cause severe diseases in animals and humans. Wildlife may contribute to the circulation of pathogenic pathotypes, including enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC), Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), and enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC). This study analyzed 109 DNA samples previously extracted from fecal specimens collected from red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) to detect E. coli virulence genes eaeA, hlyA, stx1, and stx2, that characterize the EPEC, STEC, and EHEC strains. Thirty-one (28.4%) samples were positive for at least one investigated virulence gene: eaeA gene was detected in 21 (19.2%) samples, hlyA in 10 (9.1%), stx1 in 6 (5.5%), and stx2 in 4 (3.6%). Nine DNA samples resulted positive for two or three virulence genes: five (4.6%) samples were positive for eaeA and hlyA genes, two (1.8%) for eaeA and stx1, one (0.9%) for hlyA and stx1, one (0.9%) for eaeA, hlyA and stx2. Red foxes seem to be involved in the epidemiology of these infections and their role could be relevant because they may be source of pathogenic E. coli for other wild animals, as well as domestic animals and humans.
Effects of Intestinal Microorganisms on Metabolism and Toxicity Mitigation of Zearalenone in Broilers
Authors: Jia Sifan , Ren Chenxi , Yang Ping , Qi Desheng
Published: August 2022

Zearalenone (ZEN) is an estrogenic mycotoxin, and chickens are relatively insensitive to it. In this study, the effects of intestinal microorganisms on ZEN metabolism and toxicity mitigation in broilers were studied by two experiments. Firstly, in vitro, ZEN was incubated anaerobically with chyme from each part of the chicken intestine to study its intestinal microbial metabolism. Then, in vivo, we explored the effects of intestinal microbiota on ZEN by inhibiting intestinal microorganisms. Broilers were fed a control diet, 2.5 mg/kg ZEN diet, microbial inhibition diet or ‘microbial inhibition +2.5 mg/kg ZEN’ diet. In vitro, the results showed that the rates of ZEN degradation by microorganisms in the duodenum, ileum, caecum, and colon were 56%, 12%, 15%, and 17%, respectively, and the microorganisms could convert ZEN into Zearalenol (ZOL). After microbial inhibition in vivo, the content of ZEN and its metabolites in excreta of broilers increased significantly, and antioxidant damage and liver damage were aggravated. 16S rRNA sequencing results showed that antioxidant indices and the content of ZEN and its metabolites in excreta were significantly correlated with the relative abundance of Streptococcus, Lactococcus and Enterococcus, etc. In conclusion, the intestinal microorganisms of broilers play an important role in ZEN metabolism and ZEN-induced antioxidant and liver injury mitigation, among which the key bacteria include Streptococcus, Lactococcus and Enterococcus, etc.
Assessment of Temperature and Precipitation Forecasts of the WRF Model in the Bahía de Banderas Region (Mexico)
Authors: Velázquez-Ruiz Antonio , Rodríguez-Uribe María Carolina , Carrillo-González Fátima Maciel , Morales-Hernández Julio Cesar , Cruz-Romero Bartolo , Bravo-Olivas Myrna Leticia
Published: August 2022

The Centro de Ciencias de la Atmósfera at UNAM, in Mexico, uses the Water Research and Forecasting model to provide weather forecasts to the country. In this study, we downloaded the mean temperature and precipitation forecasts of the first 24 h generated by the WRF model in the center of the country. Only the time series of our study region (Bahía de Banderas) was processed from this database, from June to October 2010, and these data were compared with the data recorded in six stations to evaluate the performance of the model at a local level. Data from 12 stations were used to construct the observed temperature and precipitation maps for spatial validation. The results show that the model performance was partially acceptable. The correlation coefficient for hourly temperatures was an average of r=0.84. Errors were less than 2 °C with a BIAS of ±1 °C. For the accumulated 24 h precipitation, however, the results were not satisfactory (r=0.26). The model predicted only 25.7% of the rainy days observed. In terms of spatial distribution, ~2.3 times more rain was observed than had been predicted by the model.
Prediction of Monthly PM2.5 Concentration in Liaocheng in China Employing Artificial Neural Network
Authors: He Zhenfang , Guo Qingchun , Wang Zhaosheng , Li Xinzhou
Published: August 2022

Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) affects climate change and human health. Therefore, the prediction of PM2.5 level is particularly important for regulatory planning. The main objective of the study is to predict PM2.5 concentration employing an artificial neural network (ANN). The annual change in PM2.5 in Liaocheng from 2014 to 2021 shows a gradual decreasing trend. The air quality in Liaocheng during lockdown and after lockdown periods in 2020 was obviously improved compared with the same periods of 2019. The ANN employed in the study contains a hidden layer with 6 neurons, an input layer with 11 parameters, and an output layer. First, the ANN is used with 80% of data for training, then with 10% of data for verification. The value of correlation coefficient (R) for the training and validation data is 0.9472 and 0.9834, respectively. In the forecast period, it is demonstrated that the ANN model with Bayesian regularization (BR) algorithm (trainbr) obtained the best forecasting performance in terms of R (0.9570), mean absolute error (4.6 μg/m3), and root mean square error (6.6 μg/m3), respectively. The ANN model has produced accurate results. These results prove that the ANN is effective in monthly PM2.5 concentration predicting due to the fact that it can identify nonlinear relationships between the input and output variables.
Comparative Analysis, Use Recommendations, and Application Cases of Methods for Develop Ship Emission Inventories
Authors: Li Yue , Zhang Yonglin , Cheng Jinxiang , Zheng Chaohui , Li Mingjun , Xu Honglei , Wang Renjie , Chen Dongsheng , Wang Xiaotong , Fu Xinyi , Zhao Yuehua , Wu Rui , Yang Xiaowen , Shi Lan
Published: August 2022

Ship exhaust emissions have been considered as a significant source of air pollution that has an adverse impact on the global climate and human health. It is of vital importance to create an accurate ship emission inventory for the purpose of formulating effective control measures. A wide range of inventory compilation methods have been proposed around the globe, and there has long been a pressing need to analyze and compare these methods in depth. This study sorted out and categorized inventory compilation methods of ship emissions in recent decades. Five main methods were compared and analyzed by their applicability, complexity, time of calculation, accuracy of results, etc. In addition, a new method was proposed to develop an emission inventory based on a vessel energy consumption reporting system. This method is believed to have the potential advantages to produce results of higher accuracy and temporal and spatial resolutions. To perform the validation, three cases at different scales were selected in part of China and surrounding maritime waters (large-scale), the Yangtze River Delta region (medium-scale), and Tianjin Port (small-scale), respectively. The analysis results show that: each of methods have different technical characteristics. Computed results significantly between methods, with the maximum deviation of up to 87%. It is advisable that the optimal method should be chosen based on the actual needs in inventory compilation and the data available. In terms of accuracy of results, Methods 1 and 5 offer moderately high accuracy; Method 2 provides average accuracy; while Methods 3 and 4 produce low accuracy. In terms of resolution of results, Methods 1 and 5 provide high-resolution temporal and spatial distribution of ship emissions; Method 2 delivers low-resolution spatial distribution; while Methods 3 and 4 are incapable of spatial distribution. In terms of applicability, Method 1 applies to the calculation of inventories of varying scales; Method 2 is more applicable to small-scale calculations, such as a port; Methods 3, 4, and 5 are more desirable for large-scale calculations, such as a country. The author recommends Methods 5, 1, 3, and 2/4 in a descending order of preference for large-scale ship emissions inventory compilations; recommends Method 5 (if accuracy is the first priority) or Method 1 (if temporal and spatial resolutions are given first priority), followed by Methods 2, 3, and 4 in a descending order of preference for small/medium-scale ship emissions inventory compilations. These results may serve to help inventory compilers choose an applicable method and support improvements in inventory compilation methods.
Impact of NH3 Emissions on Particulate Matter Pollution in South Korea: A Case Study of the Seoul Metropolitan Area
Authors: Shim Changsub , Han Jihyun , Henze Daven K. , Shephard Mark W. , Zhu Liye , Moon Nankyoung , Kharol Shailesh K. , Dammers Enrico , Cady-Pereira Karen
Published: August 2022

We analyzed the multi-year relationship between particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) concentrations and possible precursors including NO2, SO2, and NH3 based on local observations over the Seoul Metropolitan Area (SMA) from 2015 to 2017. Surface NH3 concentrations were obtained from Cross-track Infrared Sounder (CrIS) retrievals, while other pollutants were observed at 142 ground sites. We found that NH3 had the highest correlation with PM2.5 (R = 0.51) compared to other precursors such as NO2 and SO2 (R of 0.16 and 0.14, respectively). The correlations indicate that NH3 emissions are likely a limiting factor in controlling PM2.5 over the SMA in a high-NOx environment. This implies that the current Korean policy urgently requires tools for controlling local NH3 emissions from the livestock industry (for example, from hog manure). These findings provide the first satellite-based trace gas evidence that implementing an NH3 control strategy could play a key role in improving air quality in the SMA.
A Targeted Proteomics Approach for Screening Serum Biomarkers Observed in the Early Stage of Type I Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Ura Blendi , Capaci Valeria , Aloisio Michelangelo , Di Lorenzo Giovanni , Romano Federico , Ricci Giuseppe , Monasta Lorenzo
Published: August 2022

Endometrial cancer (EC) is the most common gynecologic malignancy, and it arises in the inner part of the uterus. Identification of serum biomarkers is essential for diagnosing the disease at an early stage. In this study, we selected 44 healthy controls and 44 type I EC at tumor stage 1, and we used the Immuno-oncology panel and the Target 96 Oncology III panel to simultaneously detect the levels of 92 cancer-related proteins in serum, using a proximity extension assay. By applying this methodology, we identified 20 proteins, associated with the outcome at binary logistic regression, with a p-value below 0.01 for the first panel and 24 proteins with a p-value below 0.02 for the second one. The final multivariate logistic regression model, combining proteins from the two panels, generated a model with a sensitivity of 97.67% and a specificity of 83.72%. These results support the use of the proposed algorithm after a validation phase.
IL-15/IL-15Rα in SJS/TEN: Relevant Expression of IL15 and IL15RA in Affected Skin
Authors: Bellón Teresa , González-Valle Olga , Sendagorta Elena , Lerma Victoria , Martínez del Río Javier , Martínez Celia , Servera Guillermo , González-Herrada Carlos , Cachafeiro Lucía , Lorente José A. , Cabañas Rosario , Herranz Pedro , de Abajo Francisco
Published: August 2022

Stevens–Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN) is a life-threatening hypersensitivity reaction to medications characterized by keratinocyte apoptosis and skin detachment. IL-15 serum levels have been associated with severity and prognosis of SJS/TEN. We have measured IL-15 concentrations in serum and blister fluid (BF) from patients with SJS/TEN by ELISA and used quantitative RT-PCR to analyze the expression of IL15 and IL15RA (encoding for IL-15 Receptor-α chain) genes in peripheral blood and BF cells, including isolated monocytes, and in affected skin. A positive correlation was found between IL-15 serum levels and a percent of detached skin. BF concentrations were higher, but no correlation was found. Higher IL15 and IL15RA gene expression levels were found in skin-infiltrating blister fluid cells compared to peripheral mononuclear cells. Moreover, IL15RA transcripts were barely detected in healthy skin, being the highest expression levels found in samples from two SJS/TEN patients who did not survive. The cutaneous expression of IL-15Rα in SJS/TEN may provide an explanation to the tissue-specific immune cytotoxic response in this clinical entity, and the results suggest that the effects of IL-15 in SJS/TEN patients may be dependent on the expression of its private receptor IL-15Rα in affected skin.
Miniaturized Raman Instruments for SERS-Based Point-of-Care Testing on Respiratory Viruses
Authors: Ali Ahmed , Nettey-Oppong Ezekiel Edward , Effah Elijah , Yu Chan Yeong , Muhammad Riaz , Soomro Toufique Ahmed , Byun Kyung Min , Choi Seung Ho
Published: August 2022

As surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) has been used to diagnose several respiratory viruses (e.g., influenza A virus subtypes such as H1N1 and the new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2), SERS is gaining popularity as a method for diagnosing viruses at the point-of-care. Although the prior and quick diagnosis of respiratory viruses is critical in the outbreak of infectious disease, ELISA, PCR, and RT-PCR have been used to detect respiratory viruses for pandemic control that are limited for point-of-care testing. SERS provides quantitative data with high specificity and sensitivity in a real-time, label-free, and multiplex manner recognizing molecular fingerprints. Recently, the design of Raman spectroscopy system was simplified from a complicated design to a small and easily accessible form that enables point-of-care testing. We review the optical design (e.g., laser wavelength/power and detectors) of commercialized and customized handheld Raman instruments. As respiratory viruses have prominent risk on the pandemic, we review the applications of handheld Raman devices for detecting respiratory viruses. By instrumentation and commercialization advancements, the advent of the portable SERS device creates a fast, accurate, practical, and cost-effective analytical method for virus detection, and would continue to attract more attention in point-of-care testing.
Complementary Strategy Enhancing Broad-Specificity for Multiplexed Immunoassay of Adulterant Sulfonylureas in Functional Food
Authors: Li Zhaodong , Xie Haihuan , Fu Tingdan , Li Yingying , Shen Xing , Li Xiangmei , Lei Yi , Yao Xiaojun , Koidis Anastasios , Liu Yingju , Huang Xinan , Lei Hongtao
Published: August 2022

Sulfonylureas, a family of anti-diabetic drugs widely used in the clinical treatment of type 2 diabetes, have recently emerged as an illegal adulterant in functional foods, to enhance the claimed anti-diabetic activity. To establish a screening assay method against their adulteration, with the aid of molecular simulation of hapten, two antibodies were raised and complementarily used to enhance the broad-specificity of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), which demonstrated simultaneous detection capability to 6 sulfonylureas; the detection limits ranged from 0.02 to 1.0 ng/mL, and recoveries were between 78.3% to 104.5%. Liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) confirmed the reliability of the proposed ELISA, based on real samples. These results suggest that the proposed ELISA could be an ideal method for screening to monitor for illicit adulteration of sulfonylureas in functional pill products.
Thigh and Shank, Kinetic and Potential Energies during Gait Swing Phase in Healthy Adults and Stroke Survivors
Authors: Litinas Krisanne , Roenigk Kristen L. , Daly Janis J.
Published: August 2022

Background/Problem. Given the treatment-resistant gait deficits after stroke and known elevated energy cost of gait after stroke, it is important to study the patterns of mechanical energies of the lower limb segments. There is a dearth of information regarding mechanical energies specifically for the thigh and shank across the gait cycle. Therefore, the purpose of the current work was to characterize the following: (1) relative patterns of oscillation kinetic energy (KE) and potential energy (PE) within lower limb segments and across lower limb segments in healthy adults during the swing phase at chosen and slow gait speeds; (2) KE and PE swing phase patterns and values for stroke survivors versus healthy adults walking at slow speed; and (3) KE and PE patterns during the swing phase for two different compensatory gait strategies after stroke,. Methods. This was a gait characterization study, a two-group, parallel-cohort study of fourteen stroke survivors with gait deficits, walking at <0.4 m/s and eight adults with no gait deficits. For testing, the eight healthy adults walked at their chosen speed, and then at the imposed slow speed of <0.04 m/s. We used a standard motion capture system and calculation methods to acquire, calculate, and characterize oscillation patterns of KE and PE of the limb segments (thigh and shank) across the gait cycle. Results. In healthy adults, we identified key energy conservation mechanisms inherent in the interactions of KE and PE, both within the thigh and shank segments and across those limb segments, partially explaining the low cost of energy of the normal adult chosen speed gait pattern, and the underlying mechanism affording the known minimal set of activated muscles during walking, especially during the early swing phase. In contrast, KE was effectively absent for both healthy adults at imposed slow walking speed and stroke survivors at their very slow chosen speed, eliminating the normal conservation of energy between KE and PE within the thigh and across the thigh and shank. Moreover, and in comparison to healthy adult slow speed, stroke survivors exhibited greater abnormalities in mechanical energies patterns, reflected in either a compensatory stepping strategy (over-flexing the hip) or circumducting strategy (stiff-legged gait, with knee extended throughout the swing phase). Conclusions and contribution to the field. Taken together, these findings support targeted training to restore normal balance control and normal activation and de-activation coordination of hip, knee, and ankle muscles, respectively (agonist/antagonist at each joint), so as to eliminate the known post-stroke abnormal co-contractions; this motor training is critical in order to release the limb to swing normally in response to mechanical energies and afford the use of conservation of KE and PE energies within the thigh and across thigh and shank.
Study on Durability and Piezoresistivity of Cement-Based Piezoelectric Materials Mixed with Carbon Fiber and Iron Tailings under Salt-Freezing Erosion
Authors: Xu Jin , Wang Sheliang , Bai Jiaojiao , Li Yifan , Quan Xiaoyi
Published: August 2022

Under the complex working conditions in cold areas, in order to achieve health monitoring of engineering structures, carbon fiber and iron tailings sand were added to ordinary cement-based materials to prepare cement-based piezoelectric composites, and the deterioration of their pressure-sensitive properties and mechanical properties under the action of the sulfate-freeze-thaw cycle was studied. Six groups of specimens and a set of benchmark specimens were prepared according to different contents of carbon fiber and iron tailings sand, and the specimens of each group were analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively after 50, 100, and 150 freeze-thaw cycles. Based on the external damage analysis, it was concluded that with the increase in the number of freeze-thaw cycles, the apparent morphology of the specimens in each group continued to deteriorate. After 150 freeze-thaw cycles, the addition of a certain proportion of carbon fiber and iron tailings can improve the compactness of cement-based composites, effectively inhibit the development of cracks, maintain the integrity of the apparent morphology of the specimen, and the quality loss rate of the specimen does not exceed 5%. Based on the internal damage analysis, it is concluded that the specimen mixed with carbon fiber and iron tailings has undergone the freeze-thaw cycles, and its relative dynamic elastic modulus generally shows a trend of first rising and then falling, and after 150 freeze-thaw cycles, the relative dynamic elastic modulus of C04T30 specimen is 85.5%, and its compressive strength loss rate is 20.2%, indicating that its freeze resistance is optimal. The compressive stress and resistivity change rate of each group of cement-based piezoelectric composite specimens that have not undergone freeze-thaw cycles are approximately consistent with the linear attenuation relationship. Those that have undergone 150 freeze-thaw cycles approximately conform to the polynomial attenuation relationship. The correlation coefficient between the compressive stress and the resistivity rate of the change fitting curve are all above 0.9, and the correlation is high; therefore, the deterioration of the structural mechanical properties after freeze-thaw cycles can be reflected by the resistivity change rate. After 150 freeze-thaw cycles, the pressure sensitivity coefficient of the C04T30 specimen is 0.007294, which has good pressure sensitivity. So, cement-based piezoelectric composite material can be embedded as an impedance sensor to monitor the health of engineering structures.
Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells May Decrease Success of Cancer Treatment by Inducing Resistance to Chemotherapy in Cancer Cells
Authors: Ramuta Taja Železnik , Kreft Mateja Erdani
Published: August 2022

The tumour microenvironment, which is comprised of various cell types and the extracellular matrix, substantially impacts tumour initiation, progression, and metastasis. Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) are one of the key stromal cells in the tumour microenvironment, and their interaction with cancer cells results in the transformation of naïve MSCs to tumour-associated MSCs. The latter has an important impact on tumour growth and progression. Recently, it has been shown that they can also contribute to the development of chemoresistance in cancer cells. This review provides an overview of 42 studies published between 1 January 2001 and 1 January 2022 that examined the effect of MSCs on the susceptibility of cancer cells to chemotherapeutics. The studies showed that MSCs affect various signalling pathways in cancer cells, leading to protection against chemotherapy-induced damage. Promising results emerged from the use of inhibitors of various signalling pathways that are affected in cancer cells due to interactions with MSCs in the tumour microenvironment. These studies present a good starting point for the investigation of novel treatment approaches and demonstrate the importance of targeting the stroma in the tumour microenvironment to improve treatment outcomes.
Conventional Therapeutics in BPDCN Patients—Do They Still Have a Place in the Era of Targeted Therapies?
Authors: Poussard Margaux , Angelot-Delettre Fanny , Deconinck Eric
Published: August 2022

No benchmark treatment exists for blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN). Since the malignancy is chemo-sensitive, chemotherapy followed by hematopoietic stem cell transplantation remains an effective treatment. However, relapses frequently occur with the development of resistance. New options arising with the development of therapies targeting signaling pathways and epigenetic dysregulation have shown promising results. In this review, we focus on conventional therapies used to treat BPDCN and the novel therapeutic approaches that guide us toward the future management of BPDCN.
Refining the Role of Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Kinases in Glioblastoma Development
Authors: Larrieu Claire M. , Storevik Simon , Guyon Joris , Pagano Zottola Antonio C. , Bouchez Cyrielle L. , Derieppe Marie-Alix , Tan Tuan Zea , Miletic Hrvoje , Lorens James , Tronstad Karl Johan , Daubon Thomas , Røsland Gro Vatne
Published: August 2022

Glioblastoma (GB) are the most frequent brain cancers. Aggressive growth and limited treatment options induce a median survival of 12–15 months. In addition to highly proliferative and invasive properties, GB cells show cancer-associated metabolic characteristics such as increased aerobic glycolysis. Pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) is a key enzyme complex at the crossroads between lactic fermentation and oxidative pathways, finely regulated by PDH kinases (PDHKs). PDHKs are often overexpressed in cancer cells to facilitate high glycolytic flux. We hypothesized that targeting PDHKs, by disturbing cancer metabolic homeostasis, would alter GB progression and render cells vulnerable to additional cancer treatment. Using patient databases, distinct expression patterns of PDHK1 and PDHK2 in GB tissues were obvious. To disturb protumoral glycolysis, we modulated PDH activity through the genetic or pharmacological inhibition of PDHK in patient-derived stem-like spheroids. Striking effects of PDHKs inhibition using dichloroacetate were observed in vitro on cell morphology and metabolism, resulting in increased intracellular ROS levels and decreased proliferation and invasion. In vivo findings confirmed a reduction in tumor size and better survival of mice implanted with PDHK1 and PDHK2 knockout cells. Adding a radiotherapeutic protocol further resulted in a reduction in tumor size and improved mouse survival in our model.
Stimulation of Akt Phosphorylation and Glucose Transport by Metalloporphyrins with Peroxynitrite Decomposition Catalytic Activity
Authors: Eccardt Amanda M. , Pelzel Ross J. , Bell Thomas P. , Fisher Jonathan S.
Published: August 2022

Iron porphyrin molecules such as hemin and iron(III) 4,4′,4″,4‴-(porphine-5,10,15,20-tetrayl)tetrakis(benzoic acid) (FeTBAP) have previously been shown to influence insulin signaling and glucose metabolism. We undertook this study to determine whether a catalytic action of iron porphyrin compounds would be related to their stimulation of insulin signaling and glucose uptake in C2C12 myotubes. FeTBAP did not display nitrite reductase activity or alter protein S-nitrosylation in myotubes, eliminating this as a candidate mode by which FeTBAP could act. FeTBAP displayed peroxynitrite decomposition catalytic activity in vitro. Additionally, in myotubes FeTBAP decreased protein nitration. The peroxynitrite decomposition catalyst Fe(III)5,10,15,20-tetrakis(4-sulfonatophenyl)porphyrinato chloride (FeTPPS) also decreased protein nitration in myotubes, but the iron porphyrin Fe(III)tetrakis(1-methyl-4-pyridyl)porphyrin pentachlorideporphyrin pentachloride (FeTMPyP) did not. FeTBAP and FeTPPS, but not FeTMPyP, showed in vitro peroxidase activity. Further, FeTBAP and FeTPPs, but not FeTMPyP, increased Akt phosphorylation and stimulated glucose uptake in myotubes. These findings suggest that iron porphyrin compounds with both peroxynitrite decomposition activity and peroxidase activity can stimulate insulin signaling and glucose transport in skeletal muscle cells.
Rewiring of Glucose and Lipid Metabolism Induced by G Protein-Coupled Receptor 17 Silencing Enables the Transition of Oligodendrocyte Progenitors to Myelinating Cells
Authors: Marangon Davide , Audano Matteo , Pedretti Silvia , Fumagalli Marta , Mitro Nico , Lecca Davide , Caruso Donatella , Abbracchio Maria P.
Published: August 2022

In the mature central nervous system (CNS), oligodendrocytes (OLs) provide support and insulation to axons thanks to the production of a myelin sheath. During their maturation to myelinating cells, OLs require energy and building blocks for lipids, which implies a great investment of energy fuels and molecular sources of carbon. The oligodendroglial G protein-coupled receptor 17 (GPR17) has emerged as a key player in OL maturation; it reaches maximal expression in pre-OLs, but then it has to be internalized to allow terminal maturation. In this study, we aim at elucidating the role of physiological GPR17 downregulation in OL metabolism by applying transcriptomics, metabolomics and lipidomics on differentiating OLs. After GPR17 silencing, we found a significant increase in mature OL markers and alteration of several genes involved in glucose metabolism and lipid biosynthesis. We also observed an increased release of lactate, which is partially responsible for the maturation boost induced by GPR17 downregulation. Concomitantly, GPR17 depletion also changed the kinetics of specific myelin lipid classes. Globally, this study unveils a functional link between GPR17 expression, lactate release and myelin composition, and suggests that innovative interventions targeting GPR17 may help to foster endogenous myelination in demyelinating diseases.
MicroRNAs as Indicators of Malignancy in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and Cystic Pancreatic Lesions
Authors: Prinz Christian , Fehring Leonard , Frese Robin
Published: August 2022

The dysregulation of microRNAs has recently been associated with cancer development and progression in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and cystic pancreatic lesions. In solid pancreatic tumor tissue, the dysregulation of miR-146, miR-196a/b, miR-198, miR-217, miR-409, and miR-490, as well as miR-1290 has been investigated in tumor biopsies of patients with PDAC and was reported to predict cancer presence. However, the value of the predictive biomarkers may further be increased during clinical conditions suggesting cancer development such as hyperinsulinemia or onset of diabetes. In this specific context, the dysregulation of miR-486 and miR-196 in tumors has been observed in the tumor tissue of PDAC patients with newly diagnosed diabetes mellitus. Moreover, miR-1256 is dysregulated in pancreatic cancer, possibly due to the interaction with long non-coding RNA molecules that seem to affect cell-cycle control and diabetes manifestation in PDAC patients, and, thus, these three markers may be of special or “sentinel value”. In blood samples, Next-generation sequencing (NGS) has also identified a set of microRNAs (miR-20a, miR-31-5p, miR-24, miR-25, miR-99a, miR-185, and miR-191) that seem to differentiate patients with pancreatic cancer remarkably from healthy controls, but limited data exist in this context regarding the prediction of cancer presences and outcomes. In contrast to solid pancreatic tumors, in cystic pancreatic cancer lesions, as well as premalignant lesions (such as intraductal papillary neoplasia (IPMN) or mucinous-cystic adenomatous cysts (MCAC)), the dysregulation of a completely different expression panel of miR-31-5p, miR-483-5p, miR-99a-5p, and miR-375 has been found to be of high clinical value in differentiating benign from malignant lesions. Interestingly, signal transduction pathways associated with miR-dysregulation seem to be entirely different in patients with pancreatic cysts when compared to PDAC. Overall, the determination of these different dysregulation “panels” in solid tumors, pancreatic cysts, obtained via fine-needle aspirate biopsies and/or in blood samples at the onset or during the treatment of pancreatic diseases, seems to be a reasonable candidate approach for predicting cancer presence, cancer development, and even therapy responses.
Serum of Post-COVID-19 Syndrome Patients with or without ME/CFS Differentially Affects Endothelial Cell Function In Vitro
Authors: Flaskamp Lavinia , Roubal Constanze , Uddin Steven , Sotzny Franziska , Kedor Claudia , Bauer Sandra , Scheibenbogen Carmen , Seifert Martina
Published: August 2022

A proportion of COVID-19 reconvalescent patients develop post-COVID-19 syndrome (PCS) including a subgroup fulfilling diagnostic criteria of Myalgic encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (PCS/CFS). Recently, endothelial dysfunction (ED) has been demonstrated in these patients, but the mechanisms remain elusive. Therefore, we investigated the effects of patients’ sera on endothelia cells (ECs) in vitro. PCS (n = 17), PCS/CFS (n = 13), and healthy controls (HC, n = 14) were screened for serum anti-endothelial cell autoantibodies (AECAs) and dysregulated cytokines. Serum-treated ECs were analysed for the induction of activation markers and the release of small molecules by flow cytometry. Moreover, the angiogenic potential of sera was measured in a tube formation assay. While only marginal differences between patient groups were observed for serum cytokines, AECA binding to ECs was significantly increased in PCS/CFS patients. Surprisingly, PCS and PCS/CFS sera reduced surface levels of several EC activation markers. PCS sera enhanced the release of molecules associated with vascular remodelling and significantly promoted angiogenesis in vitro compared to the PCS/CFS and HC groups. Additionally, sera from both patient cohorts induced the release of molecules involved in inhibition of nitric oxide-mediated endothelial relaxation. Overall, PCS and PCS/CFS patients′ sera differed in their AECA content and their functional effects on ECs, i.e., secretion profiles and angiogenic potential. We hypothesise a pro-angiogenic effect of PCS sera as a compensatory mechanism to ED which is absent in PCS/CFS patients.
Hybrid Tri-Cure Organo-Silicon Coatings for Monument Preservation
Authors: Sims Cory B. , Lenora Chamika U. , Furgal Joseph C.
Published: August 2022

A coating system integrating three distinct chemistries was developed to protect materials used in monuments and construction. Initial curing is achieved using a UV-initiated thiol-ene reaction to form a non-impressionable/non-sticky surface. Second, amine/epoxy reactions form a firm surface adhesion and give mechanical strength through consolidation. Third, alkoxysilane sol-gel curing integrates the siloxane network while adding thermal stability, hydrophobicity, and a hardened surface. The final design utilizes a photoacid generator to increase the reaction speed of the second and third curing steps. The coating can be applied by spray, dip, or wipe on methods and exhibits a rapid non-impressionable surface (as fast as 10 min) that resists graffiti and environmental conditions, and is used and stored as a single-component system with a pot life exceeding six months. A series of experiments were used to determine the coating properties and durability, including field testing and accelerated weathering.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Laser Welded Magnesium Alloy/Steel Joint Using Cu-Si Composite Interlayer
Authors: Yu Kai , Lei Min , Zeng Aori , Zhang Hua
Published: August 2022

In this study, Cu-Si composite powder was used as the interlayer to carry out laser lap deep penetration welding of AZ31B magnesium alloy and DP590 dual-phase steel. The effects of Cu-Si composite powder on the weld formation, microstructure, and mechanical properties of magnesium alloy and steel joint were studied. The results show that the addition of Si can improve the laser absorption rate of the interlayer and increase the melting depth at the magnesium side. In addition, the Cu-Si composite interlayer hindered the diffusion of Al, and reduced the thickness of reactive layer at the magnesium alloy and the steel interface. After adding Si into the interlayer, the reactive layer changed from Fe3Al+α-Mg to Fe-(Al, Si) +α-Mg and the content of intermetallic compounds in the reactive layer decreased, which improved the plastic deformation capacity and the ductility of the reactive layer. As a result, the tensile shear force firstly increased and then decreased with the Si increase. The maximum tensile shear force of 86.2 N/mm was achieved when the Si content was 5%, which was 20.4% higher than that of the Cu interlayer. Plus, the fracture location changed from near the steel side to near the magnesium side weld.
Roholtiella volcanica sp. nov., a New Species of Cyanobacteria from Kamchatkan Volcanic Soils
Authors: Gaysina Lira A. , Johansen Jeffrey R. , Saraf Aniket , Allaguvatova Rezeda Z. , Pal Sagarika , Singh Prashant
Published: August 2022

During a study of biodiversity of cyanobacteria in Gorely volcano soils (Kamchatka Peninsula), a strain of heterocytous, a false branching cyanobacterium with gradually tapered filaments, was isolated. Prominent features of the strain were purplish-grey trichomes and firm, distinct multilayered sheaths. Based on the results obtained from the morphological, ecological, and phylogenetic analysis using the 16S rRNA and 16S–23S ITS region, 16S–23S ITS secondary structure analysis, comparison of flanking regions of BoxB and V3 helices, and the p-distance between the 16S–23S ITS region, we describe our strain K7 as a novel species of the genus Roholtiella with the name Roholtiella volcanica sp. nov., in accordance with the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants. This work continues the rapid expansion of the description of new taxa of cyanobacteria, and particularly demonstrates a coming phase in cyanobacterial taxonomy in which the discovery of new species in recently described genera rapidly increases our understanding of the diversity in this phylum.
Effects of Population Density on Revegetation of Artemisia sphaerocephala and Soil Traits in a Desert Ecosystem
Authors: Zhou Xiangrui , Ju Zeliang , Liang Guoling , Yang Li , Zhou Zhiyu , Zhao Guiqin
Published: August 2022

Soil desertification is a serious problem in arid northwestern China that threatens ecological sustainability. Artemisia sphaerocephala, a dominant shrub species, play an important role in the conservation of water and the restoration of soil in the desert ecosystem. However, the poor establishment of A. sphaerocephala often limits plant revegetation, and the optimal population density for sustainable growth is largely unknown. Here, we determined key soil properties and plant growth characteristics associated with different population densities of A. sphaerocephala (including from 1.1, 2.1, 3.1, 3.9 to 5.3 plants per m2) in the resource-limited Alashan desert of northwestern China. The results showed that plant population density was the primary factor determining the revegetation of A. sphaerocephala, followed by soil water availability. Soil N, P and K content, and soil fractal dimensions also contributed to the vegetation and productivity. Soil nutrients were mostly accumulated in the topsoil layers, coincidental with the root distribution pattern in which 57% to 82% of total roots were distributed in the top 20 cm soil layer. The concentrations of soil nutrients in higher population densities (3.9 to 5.3 plants per m2) were greater than those in lower population densities (1.1 to 2.1 plants per m2), suggesting that A. sphaerocephala may have the ability to promote nutrient cycling in the desert ecosystem. We conclude that the optimal population density for the best growth of revegetated A. sphaerocephala was 3 plants per m2.
Anatomical Features of the Parotid Duct in Sialography as an Aid to Endoscopy—A Retrospective Study
Authors: Avishai Gal , Younes Muhammad , Gilat Hanna , Gillman Leon , Reiser Vadim , Rosenfeld Eli , Chaushu Gavriel , Masri Daya
Published: August 2022

Sialography is used for diagnosis of obstructive salivary gland diseases and prior to sialendoscopy. Three-dimensional cone beam computerized tomography (CBCT) sialography allows imaging and measurement of salivary duct structures. Salivary gland endoscopy has a long learning curve. The aim of this retrospective study is to create an anatomical quantitative guide of different distances and angles significant for endoscopy. Twenty-six CBCT sialographies of healthy parotid ducts were included. Outcome parameters included diameters, distances, angles and number of minor tributaries. Results show the average distance from the papilla to the curvature of the gland was 41.5 mm (Q1 36.97 mm–Q3 45.32 mm), with an angle of 126.9° (Q1 107.58°–Q3 135.6°) of the curvature and a distance of 35.25 mm (±7.81 mm) between the curvature and the hilus. The mean width of the duct was 0.8 mm (Q1 0.7 mm–Q3 1.15 mm) at its narrowest and 2 mm (Q1 1.4 mm–Q3 2.2 mm) at its widest. This is the first anatomical quantitative study of the parotid duct in relation to sialendoscopy.
Wildfire Monitoring Based on Energy Efficient Clustering Approach for FANETS
Authors: Bharany Salil , Sharma Sandeep , Frnda Jaroslav , Shuaib Mohammed , Khalid Muhammad Irfan , Hussain Saddam , Iqbal Jawaid , Ullah Syed Sajid
Published: August 2022

Forest fires are a significant threat to the ecological system’s stability. Several attempts have been made to detect forest fires using a variety of approaches, including optical fire sensors, and satellite-based technologies, all of which have been unsuccessful. In today’s world, research on flying ad hoc networks (FANETs) is a thriving field and can be used successfully. This paper describes a unique clustering approach that identifies the presence of a fire zone in a forest and transfers all sensed data to a base station as soon as feasible via wireless communication. The fire department takes the required steps to prevent the spread of the fire. It is proposed in this study that an efficient clustering approach be used to deal with routing and energy challenges to extend the lifetime of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) in case of forest fires. Due to the restricted energy and high mobility, this directly impacts the flying duration and routing of FANET nodes. As a result, it is vital to enhance the lifetime of wireless sensor networks (WSNs) to maintain high system availability. Our proposed algorithm EE-SS regulates the energy usage of nodes while taking into account the features of a disaster region and other factors. For firefighting, sensor nodes are placed throughout the forest zone to collect essential data points for identifying forest fires and dividing them into distinct clusters. All of the sensor nodes in the cluster communicate their packets to the base station continually through the cluster head. When FANET nodes communicate with one another, their transmission range is constantly adjusted to meet their operating requirements. This paper examines the existing clustering techniques for forest fire detection approaches restricted to wireless sensor networks and their limitations. Our newly designed algorithm chooses the most optimum cluster heads (CHs) based on their fitness, reducing the routing overhead and increasing the system’s efficiency. Our proposed method results from simulations are compared with the existing approaches such as LEACH, LEACH-C, PSO-HAS, and SEED. The evaluation is carried out concerning overall energy usage, residual energy, the count of live nodes, the network lifetime, and the time it takes to build a cluster compared to other approaches. As a result, our proposed EE-SS algorithm outperforms all the considered state-of-art algorithms.
Separability Criteria Based on the Weyl Operators
Authors: Huang Xiaofen , Zhang Tinggui , Zhao Ming-Jing , Jing Naihuan
Published: August 2022

Entanglement as a vital resource for information processing can be described by special properties of the quantum state. Using the well-known Weyl basis we propose a new Bloch decomposition of the quantum state and study its separability problem. This decomposition enables us to find an alternative characterization of the separability based on the correlation matrix. We show that the criterion is effective in detecting entanglement for the isotropic states, Bell-diagonal states and some PPT entangled states. We also use the Weyl operators to construct an detecting operator for quantum teleportation.
Tumor Biochemical Heterogeneity and Cancer Radiochemotherapy: Network Breakdown Zone-Model
Authors: Dimou Argyris , Argyrakis Panos , Kopelman Raoul
Published: August 2022

Breakdowns of two-zone random networks of the Erdős–Rényi type are investigated. They are used as mathematical models for understanding the incompleteness of the tumor network breakdown under radiochemotherapy, an incompleteness that may result from a tumor’s physical and/or chemical heterogeneity. Mathematically, having a reduced node removal probability in the network’s inner zone hampers the network’s breakdown. The latter is described quantitatively as a function of reduction in the inner zone’s removal probability, where the network breakdown is described in terms of the largest remaining clusters and their size distributions. The effects on the efficacy of radiochemotherapy due to the tumor micro-environment (TME)’s chemical make-up, and its heterogeneity, are discussed, with the goal of using such TME chemical heterogeneity imaging to inform precision oncology.