bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shock Wave Characterization Using Different Diameters of an Optoacoustic Carbon Nanotube Composite Transducer
Authors: Lee Jooho , Zaigham Sheher Bano , Paeng Dong-Guk
Published: July 2022

Carbon nanotube–polymethyl siloxane (CNT-PDMS) composite transducers generate shock waves using optoacoustic technology. A thin layer of thermally conductive CNT and elastomeric polymer, PDMS, is applied on the concave surface of transparent polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) to convert laser energy to acoustic energy using the thermoelastic effect of the composite transducer. The efficient conversion of laser energy requires an optimum utilization of the different properties of composite transducers. Among these properties, the diameter of composite transducers is a significant parameter. To practically verify and understand the effect of the diameter of composite transducers on the properties of shock waves, CNT-PDMS composite transducers with different diameters and focal lengths were constructed. Increases in the diameter of the composite transducer and input laser energy resulted in increased peak pressures of the shock waves. The maximum positive and negative pressures of the shock waves generated were 53 MPa and −25 MPa, respectively. This practically demonstrates that high peak amplitudes of shock waves can be achieved using larger transducers, which are suitable for practical applications in transcranial studies.
Responses of Soil N2O Emission and CH4 Uptake to N Input in Chinese Forests across Climatic Zones: A Meta-Study
Authors: Zhang Bei , Huang Yuanyuan , Qu Zhi , Zhu Tongbin , Yu Longfei
Published: July 2022

Enhanced nitrogen (N) deposition has shown significant impacts on forest greenhouse gas emissions. Previous studies have suggested that Chinese forests may exhibit stronger N2O sources and dampened CH4 sinks under aggravated N saturation. To gain a common understanding of the N effects on forest N2O and CH4 fluxes, many have conducted global-scale meta-analyses. However, such effects have not been quantified particularly for China. Here, we present a meta-study of the N input effects on soil N2O emission and CH4 uptake in Chinese forests across climatic zones. The results suggest that enhanced N inputs significantly increase soil N2O emission (+115.8%) and decrease CH4 uptake (−13.4%). The mean effects were stronger for N2O emission and weaker for CH4 uptake in China compared with other global sites, despite being statistically insignificant. Subtropical forest soils have the highest emission factor (2.5%) and may respond rapidly to N inputs; in relatively N-limited temperate forests, N2O and CH4 fluxes are less sensitive to N inputs. Factors including forest type, N form and rate, as well as soil pH, may also govern the responses of N2O and CH4 fluxes. Our findings pinpoint the important role of Southern Chinese forests in the regional N2O and CH4 budgets.
Prevention of Health Risks Related to Occupational Solar Ultraviolet Radiation Exposure in Times of Climate Change and COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Modenese Alberto
Published: July 2022

Occupational exposure to solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a recognized work-related risk, as is associated with the induction of long-term adverse health effects such as Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers and cataracts. Recent research provided new data suggesting an increased risk of specific forms of malignant melanoma, i.e., Lentigo Maligna Melanoma, for outdoor workers, while the relation of cumulative exposure to solar radiation with ocular diseases, such as uveal melanoma and macular degeneration, is still debated. Nowadays, one of the main focuses of prevention activities is the organization of multicomponent sun safety initiatives, which are proved to be effective, particularly when including technologies that are able to directly interact with individuals, such as phone apps, such as the recently released SunSmart Global UV App. Nevertheless, we should not forget that we are living in an era of profound changes, and phenomena such as climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic have an impact on all aspects of our lives, including how and when we perform, as well as the perception of, outdoor activities. In the future, this may result in possible changes in the scenario of occupational and leisure-time solar radiation exposure-related health risks.
Urban Aerobiome and Effects on Human Health: A Systematic Review and Missing Evidence
Authors: Franchitti Elena , Caredda Chiara , Anedda Elisa , Traversi Deborah
Published: July 2022

Urban air pollutants are a major public health concern and include biological matters which composes about 25% of the atmospheric aerosol particles. Airborne microorganisms were traditionally characterized by culture-based methods recognizing just 1.5–15.3% of the total bacterial diversity that was evaluable by genome signature in the air environment (aerobiome). Despite the large number of exposed people, urban aerobiomes are still weakly described even if recently advanced literature has been published. This paper aims to systematically review the state of knowledge on the urban aerobiome and human health effects. A total of 24 papers that used next generation sequencing (NGS) techniques for characterization and comprised a seasonal analysis have been included. A core of Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, and Bacteroides and various factors that influenced the community structure were detected. Heterogenic methods and results were reported, for both sampling and aerobiome diversity analysis, highlighting the necessity of in-depth and homogenized assessment thus reducing the risk of bias. The aerobiome can include threats for human health, such as pathogens and resistome spreading; however, its diversity seems to be protective for human health and reduced by high levels of air pollution. Evidence of the urban aerobiome effects on human health need to be filled up quickly for urban public health purposes.
Source Identification of PM2.5 during a Smoke Haze Period in Chiang Mai, Thailand, Using Stable Carbon and Nitrogen Isotopes
Authors: Kawichai Sawaeng , Prapamontol Tippawan , Cao Fang , Song Wenhuai , Zhang Yanlin
Published: July 2022

Open biomass burning (BB) has contributed severely to the ambient levels of particulate matter of less than 2.5 μm diameter (PM2.5) in upper northern Thailand over the last decade. Some methods have been reported to identify the sources of burning using chemical compositions, i.e., ions, metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, etc. However, recent advances in nuclear techniques have been limited in use due to their specific instrumentation. The aims of this study were to investigate the sources of ambient PM2.5 in Chiang Mai city using stable carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen isotopes (δ15N). The mean concentrations of total carbon (TC) and total nitrogen (TN) in PM2.5 were 12.2 ± 5.42 and 1.91 ± 1.07 μg/m3, respectively, whereas δ13C and δ15N PM2.5 were −26.1 ± 0.77‰ and 10.3 ± 2.86‰, respectively. This isotopic analysis confirmed that biomass burning was the source of PM2.5 and that C3 and C4 plants contributed about 74% and 26%, respectively. These study results confirm that the stable isotope is an important tool in identifying the sources of aerosols.
Using 3D Ray Tracing Technology to Study the Disturbance Effect of Rocket Plume on Ionosphere
Authors: Li Qingfeng , Li Zeyun , Fang Hanxian
Published: July 2022

In this paper, the initial neutral atmospheric parameters, background ionospheric parameters and geomagnetic field parameters of the ionosphere are obtained by NRLMSISE-00 model, IRI-2016 model and IGRF-13 model, respectively. Considering the neutral gas diffusion process, ion chemical reaction and plasma diffusion process, a three-dimensional dynamic model of chemical substances released by rocket plume disturbing the ionosphere is constructed. The influence of the disturbance on the echo path of high frequency radio waves with different incident frequencies is simulated by using three-dimensional digital ray-tracing technology. Using this model, the process of ionospheric disturbance caused by the main chemical substances H2 and H2O in the rocket plume under three different release conditions: fixed-point release at 300 km, vertical path at 250–350 km and parabolic path at 250–350 km, and the influence of the ionospheric cavity on the radio wave propagation of high frequency radio waves at different frequencies are simulated. The main purpose of the article is to focus on the effect of the cavity generated by the rocket exhaust on the propagation of radio waves. It mainly studies the perturbation effect on the ionosphere under different release conditions, considers the neutral gas diffusion process, ion chemical reaction and plasma diffusion process, and establishes the three-dimensional dynamics of the ionospheric electron density and the spatiotemporal distribution of the plume plasma learning model. Finally, the three-dimensional ray-tracing algorithm is used to simulate the propagation path of the radio wave through the disturbance area. We considered three different release conditions, including fixed-point release, vertical path and parabolic path. The ionospheric disturbances produced by these different releases are compared and analyzed, and their effects on the propagation path of radio waves are studied.
A Framework on Analyzing Long-Term Drought Changes and Its Influential Factors Based on the PDSI
Authors: Yang Bing , Kong Liang , Lai Chengguang , Huang Dong , Cheng Xiangju
Published: July 2022

Drought is one of the most frequent and most widespread natural disasters worldwide, significantly impacting agricultural production and the ecological environment. An investigation of long-term drought changes and its influencing factors provides not only an understanding of historical droughts but also a scientific basis for the protection of future water resources. This study investigated the temporal characteristics of drought in a study site located in the center of Southwest China (SWC) over a 700-year period (AD 1300–2005) using the Palmer Drought Severity Index (PDSI). The linkage between drought and its influencing factors is discussed. An algorithm based on the random forest (RF) method was proposed to analyze the dynamic influence of the factors on drought. We also examined the linkages between the demise of two dynasties and historical drought events. The results showed that the study site was a drought-prone area in the study period and experienced a non-significant drying trend in all centuries, except for the 17th century; a total of 232 droughts were detected in the study site from AD 1300–2005. The wavelet spectrum of the PDSI series showed the existence of 4-, 8-, 16-, 32-, and 128-year-periods. A strong correlation existed between the sunspot numbers and the PDSI. The correlation of the period between the PDSI and El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) series in the same frequency domain was weak, while the ENSO exhibited a strong interaction with the PDSI in some time periods. The Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) and PDSI had no resonance period in the low-frequency region, but there was a period of 80–130 years in the high-frequency region. The relative rates of influence of the ENSO, sunspot numbers, and PDO during AD 1700–1996 were 38.40%, 31.81%, and 29.8%, respectively. However, the mechanism of the interaction between droughts and the influential factors is complex, and the dominant factor changed over time. The analysis of long-term drought changes based on the PDSI series may provide clues to understand the development of historical events.
Dynamic Physical Activity Recommendation Delivered through a Mobile Fitness App: A Deep Learning Approach
Authors: Vairavasundaram Subramaniyaswamy , Varadarajan Vijayakumar , Srinivasan Deepthi , Balaganesh Varshini , Damerla Srijith Bharadwaj , Swaminathan Bhuvaneswari , Ravi Logesh
Published: July 2022

Regular physical activity has a positive impact on our physical and mental health. Adhering to a fixed physical activity regimen is essential for good health and mental wellbeing. Today, fitness trackers and smartphone applications are used to promote physical activity. These applications use step counts recorded by accelerometers to estimate physical activity. In this research, we performed a two-level clustering on a dataset based on individuals’ physical and physiological features, as well as past daily activity patterns. The proposed model exploits the user data with partial or complete features. To include the user with partial features, we trained the proposed model with the data of users who possess exclusive features. Additionally, we classified the users into several clusters to produce more accurate results for the users. This enables the proposed system to provide data-driven and personalized activity planning recommendations every day. A personalized physical activity plan is generated on the basis of hourly patterns for users according to their adherence and past recommended activity plans. Customization of activity plans can be achieved according to the user’s historical activity habits and current activity objective, as well as the likelihood of sticking to the plan. The proposed physical activity recommendation system was evaluated in real time, and the results demonstrated the improved performance over existing baselines.
On Implicit Time–Fractal–Fractional Differential Equation
Authors: Omaba McSylvester Ejighikeme , Mukiawa Soh Edwin , Nwaeze Eze R.
Published: July 2022

An implicit time–fractal–fractional differential equation involving the Atangana’s fractal–fractional derivative in the sense of Caputo with the Mittag–Leffler law type kernel is studied. Using the Banach fixed point theorem, the well-posedness of the solution is proved. We show that the solution exhibits an exponential growth bound, and, consequently, the long-time (asymptotic) property of the solution. We also give examples to illustrate our problem.
Metabolomics of Non-Saccharomyces Yeasts in Fermented Beverages
Authors: Ellis Daniel J. , Kerr Edward D. , Schenk Gerhard , Schulz Benjamin L.
Published: July 2022

Fermented beverages have been consumed for millennia and today support a global industry producing diverse products. Saccharomyces yeasts currently dominate the fermented beverage industry, but consumer demands for alternative products with a variety of sensory profiles and actual or perceived health benefits are driving the diversification and use of non-Saccharomyces yeasts. The diversity of flavours, aromas, and other sensory characteristics that can be obtained by using non-Saccharomyces yeasts in fermentation is, in large part, due to the diverse secondary metabolites they produce compared to conventional Saccharomyces yeast. Here, we review the use of metabolomic analyses of non-Saccharomyces yeasts to explore their impact on the sensory characteristics of fermented beverages. We highlight several key species currently used in the industry, including Brettanomyces, Torulaspora, Lachancea, and Saccharomycodes, and emphasize the future potential for the use of non-Saccharomyces yeasts in the production of diverse fermented beverages.
Technical Modifications for the Application of the Total Difference Method for Frontal Sinus Comparison
Authors: Campbell Jessica L. , Butaric Lauren N.
Published: July 2022

Despite being used in personal identification since the 1920s, frontal sinus-based methods are rarely validated. This study is a validation test of the Total Difference Method (TDM). The posterior-anterior radiographs of 10 adults were assessed by two observers using three modes: the Freehand Mode largely followed the original protocols; the Overlay Mode utilized a tracing overlay; and the Semi-Auto Mode used the overlay and macro, walking the user through multiple steps. The modes were evaluated for the time taken to complete each image and the accuracy and repeatability of the line lengths, midline assessment, and angle placement. The repeated measures analysis of variance results for the intra-observer error revealed differences in bias in the angle placement and line length mean error between the rounds and modes. The differences between the rounds were approximately consistent for each mode, suggesting observer error. Significant differences in the inaccuracy of the angle placement and the line lengths between observers by mode were evident; in post hoc testing, the Freehand Mode and Overlay Mode had the greatest error in both variables (p.adj < 0.0001). The Semi-Auto Mode retained no significant error for angle inaccuracy and had the fewest errors for line length inaccuracy (p.adj < 0.01). When using the Semi-Auto Mode, the time was 46.1% faster than that of the Freehand Mode and 34% faster than that of the Overlay Mode (F2,18 = 52.71, p < 0.0001); time slightly improved with method familiarity. The results suggest that the technique required for the TDM can reliably be repeated, and the semi-automated macro improves accuracy and efficiency, but only after the users are familiar with the method and macro procedures. All resources needed to repeat this study are freely available on GitHub.
Transcriptome Analysis and HPLC Profiling of Flavonoid Biosynthesis in Citrus aurantium L. during Its Key Developmental Stages
Authors: Chen Jing , Shi Yaliang , Zhong Yicheng , Sun Zhimin , Niu Juan , Wang Yue , Chen Tianxin , Chen Jianhua , Luan Mingbao
Published: July 2022

Citrus aurantium L. (sour orange) is a significant Chinese medicinal and fruit crop rich in flavonoids. However, the pathways and genes involved in flavonoid biosynthesis at the key developmental stages of Citrus aurantium L. are not fully understood. This study found that the total flavonoid concentration gradually decreased as the fruit developed. Additionally, it showed that neohesperidin was the main flavonoid in the early stages of sour orange fruit development. However, as the development stage progressed, naringin content increased rapidly and emerged as the main flavonoid component. From 27 cDNA libraries, RNA sequencing yielded 16.64 billion clean bases, including 8989 differentially expressed genes. We identified 74 flavonoid related unigenes mapped to the phenylalanine, tyrosine, and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathways. A total of 152 UDP-glucuronosyltransferase genes (UGTs) were identified from C. aurantium L. transcriptome database, in which 22 key flavonoid-correlated UGTs were divided into five main AtGT groups: E, G, I, L, M. We observed that the ethylene responsive factors (ERF) and myeloblastosis (MYB) family mainly regulated the key genes involved in flavonoid biosynthesis. Overall, our study generated extensive and detailed transcriptome data on the development of C. aurantium L. and characterized the flavonoid biosynthesis pattern during its fruit developmental stages. These results will benefit genetic modification or selection to increase the flavonoid content in sour oranges.
Tandem Mass Tag-Based Quantitative Proteomics Analysis of Gonads Reveals New Insight into Sexual Reversal Mechanism in Chinese Soft-Shelled Turtles
Authors: Zhou Tong , Chen Guobin , Chen Meng , Wang Yubin , Zou Guiwei , Liang Hongwei
Published: July 2022

Chinese soft-shelled turtles display obvious sex dimorphism. The exogenous application of hormones (estradiol and methyltestosterone) can change the direction of gonadal differentiation of P. sinensis to produce sex reversed individuals. However, the molecular mechanism remains unclear. In this study, TMT-based quantitative proteomics analysis of four types of P. sinensis (female, male, pseudo-female, and pseudo-male) gonads were compared. Quantitative analysis of 6107 labeled proteins in the four types of P. sinensis gonads was performed. We identified 440 downregulated and 423 upregulated proteins between pseudo-females and males, as well as 394 downregulated and 959 upregulated proteins between pseudo-males and females. In the two comparisons, the differentially expressed proteins, including K7FKG1, K7GIQ2, COL4A6, K7F2U2, and K7FF80, were enriched in some important pathways, such as focal adhesion, endocytosis, apoptosis, extracellular matrix-receptor interaction, and the regulation of actin cytoskeleton, which were upregulated in pseudo-female vs. male and downregulated in pseudo-male vs. female. In pathways such as ribosome and spliceosome, the levels of RPL28, SRSF3, SNRNP40, and HNRNPK were increased from male to pseudo-female, while they decreased from female to pseudo-male. All differentially expressed proteins after sexual reversal were divided into six clusters, according to their altered levels in the four types of P. sinensis, and associated with cellular processes, such as embryonic development and catabolic process, that were closely related to sexual reversal. These data will provide clues for the sexual reversal mechanism in P. sinensis.
Prevalence and Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Bovine Mycoplasma Species in Egypt
Authors: Ammar Ahmed M. , Abd El-Hamid Marwa I. , Mohamed Yousreya H. , Mohamed Heba M. , Al-khalifah Dalal H. M. , Hozzein Wael N. , Selim Samy , El-Neshwy Wafaa M. , El-Malt Rania M. S.
Published: July 2022

Among many bovine Mycoplasma species (spp.), Mycoplasma bovis is recognized as a significant causative agent of respiratory diseases in cattle. In recent years, resistant M. bovis isolates, especially to fluoroquinolones, have been reported globally as a result of the extensive usage of antimicrobials in the treatment of bovine pneumonia. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of bovine Mycoplasma spp. isolated from the respiratory tracts of cattle in Egypt and to assess the fluoroquinolones resistance in the recovered mycoplasma isolates via broth microdilution and conventional PCR techniques. Conventional phenotypic methods identified 128 mycoplasma isolates (32%) from 400 different samples, with M. bovis being the predominant spp. (61%), followed by M. bovirhinis (15%). Of note, mycoplasma isolates were rarely isolated from total healthy lung tissues (7/55, 12.7%), but they were frequently isolated from pneumonic lungs (31/45, 68.9%). All the examined mycoplasma isolates (n = 76) were sensitive to tilmicosin, tylosin, tulathromycin, spiramycin, and spectinomycin (100% each), while 60.5% and 43.4% of the examined isolates had high minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values to enrofloxacin and doxycycline, respectively. Three and two mycoplasma isolates with high enrofloxacin MICs were confirmed to be M. bovis and M. bovirhinis, respectively, by PCR assays. All molecularly confirmed mycoplasma isolates (n = 5) were positive for the gyrA gene (100%); meanwhile, three isolates (60%) were positive for the parC gene. In conclusion, our findings revealed alarming resistance to enrofloxacin and doxycycline antibiotics; thus, antimicrobial usage must be restricted and molecular techniques can help in the rapid detection of the resistant strains.
Effects of a Multicomponent Exercise Program on Improving Frailty in Post-COVID-19 Older Adults after Intensive Care Units: A Single-Group Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Cuenca-Zaldivar Juan Nicolás , Monroy Acevedo Álvaro , Fernández-Carnero Josué , Sánchez-Romero Eleuterio A. , Villafañe Jorge Hugo , Barragán Carballar Carlos
Published: July 2022

Background: Older adult patients with post-COVID-19 syndrome present greater physical impairment accompanied by frailty than younger patients, which is why multicomponent exercise programs (MEP) are recommended for their positive effects on improving frailty and physical capacity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a short MEP (Vivifrail; <4 weeks) on improving frailty in post-COVID-19 older adults after intensive care units. Methods: To develop a retrospective cohort study, data were collected from the functional gait training program based on selected Vivifrail MEP in a single-group and applied to patients admitted with a diagnosis of post-COVID-19 functional impairment. The MEP was carried out for 3 weeks, with daily sessions lasting 40 min. Patients included were assessed at the beginning and at the end of the protocol by using the Short Performance Physical Battery (SPPB), the number of falls in the last year, the number of falls with medical attention, the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, the presence of dementia, the Trunk Control Test (TCT), the Tinetti balance and gait test, Barthel Index, Medical Research Council Sum Score (MRCSS) and handgrip strength dynamometry. Results: The results of this study show statistically significant improvements in physical fitness and frailty with increases in the Short Physical Performance Battery (Z = 9.12, p < 0.001) by means of the MET applied in its short version (<4 weeks) showing even clinically relevant improvements (>2.5 points). Statistically significant improvements were also found in Medical Research Council Sum Score (Z = 12.345, p < 0.001), Barthel Index Score (Z = 12.272, p < 0.001), Trunk Control Test (Z = 12. 36, p < 0.001), Tinetti–POMA (Z = 12.293, p < 0.001) including the balance (Z = 12.11, p < 0.001), gait (Z = 12.164, p < 0.001) subscales and in the hand dynamometry (Z = 12.172, p < 0.001). Conclusions: The selected Vivifrail MEP is effective and safe for improving frailty in post-COVID-19 older adult’s patients.
Benthic Macrofauna Community Bioirrigation Potential (BIPc): Regional Map and Utility Validation for the South-Western Baltic Sea
Authors: Gogina Mayya , Renz Judith Rahel , Forster Stefan , Zettler Michael L.
Published: July 2022

Benthic community bioirrigation potential (BIPc), an index developed to quantify the anticipated capacity of macrofauna to influence the solute exchange at the sediment–water interface, was calculated for the south-western Baltic Sea. This index can be regarded as an effect trait that is useful for predicting ecosystem processes impacted by animal burrow ventilation. The special feature, and presumably an advantage, of BIPc, compared to alternative recently developed benthic macrofauna-based bioirrigation indices, lies in its ability to distinguish the taxa-specific score values between diffusion- and advection-dominated sediment systems. The usefulness of the BIPc index was compared against the estimates of the well-established community bioturbation potential index (BPc). The BIPc index displayed a moderately but significantly stronger correlation with estimates of irrigation rates derived from tracer experiments. Using a random forest machine learning approach and a number of available relevant environmental predictor layers, we have modelled and mapped the spatial differences in this ecosystem functioning expression. The key species contributing to bioirrigation potential in the study area were identified. The interannual variation in BIPc was assessed on a small exemplary dataset. The scores required to calculate the index, that were assigned to 120 taxa dominating abundance and biomass in the region, are provided for reuse. The utility, temporal variability and uncertainty of the distribution estimate are discussed.
Biostimulant Capacity of Chlorella and Chlamydopodium Species Produced Using Wastewater and Centrate
Authors: Morillas-España Ainoa , Ruiz-Nieto Ángela , Lafarga Tomás , Acién Gabriel , Arbib Zouhayr , González-López Cynthia V.
Published: July 2022

The aim of the present study was to assess the potential of producing four microalgal strains using secondary-treated urban wastewater supplemented with centrate, and to evaluate the biostimulant effects of several microalgal extracts obtained using water and sonication. Four strains were studied: Chlorella vulgaris UAL-1, Chlorella sp. UAL-2, Chlorella vulgaris UAL-3, and Chlamydopodium fusiforme UAL-4. The highest biomass productivity was found for C. fusiforme, with a value of 0.38 ± 0.01 g·L−1·day−1. C. vulgaris UAL-1 achieved a biomass productivity of 0.31 ± 0.03 g·L−1·day−1 (the highest for the Chlorella genus), while the N-NH4+, N-NO3−, and P-PO43− removal capacities of this strain were 51.9 ± 2.4, 0.8 ± 0.1, and 5.7 ± 0.3 mg·L−1·day−1, respectively. C. vulgaris UAL-1 showed the greatest potential for use as a biostimulant—when used at a concentration of 0.1 g·L−1, it increased the germination index of watercress seeds by 3.5%. At concentrations of 0.5 and 2.0 g·L−1, the biomass from this microalga promoted adventitious root formation in soybean seeds by 220% and 493%, respectively. The cucumber expansion test suggested a cytokinin-like effect from C. vulgaris UAL-1; it was also the only strain that promoted the formation of chlorophylls in wheat leaves. Overall, the results of the present study suggest the potential of producing C. vulgaris UAL-1 using centrate and wastewater as well as the potential utilisation of its biomass to develop high-value biostimulants.
High-Throughput Proteomic Analysis of Human Dermal Fibroblast Response to Different Blood Derivatives: Autologous Topical Serum Derived from Plasma Rich in Growth Factors (PRGF) versus Leukocyte- and Platelet-Rich Plasma (L-PRP)
Authors: Anitua Eduardo , Pino Ander , Azkargorta Mikel , Elortza Felix , Prado Roberto
Published: July 2022

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is nowadays used in the treatment of different types of cutaneous lesions. However, different compositions can influence clinical outcomes. Among them, the inclusion of leukocytes is controversial. High-throughput proteomics techniques were used to analyze the proteins that are differentially expressed in human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) after treatment for 24 h with two PRP types, autologous topical serum (Endoret serum—ES) derived from plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF) and leukocyte- and platelet-rich plasma (L-PRP). The identified proteins were then classified by both Gene Ontology and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis. The obtained results show that the compositions of ES and L-PRP differ in such a way that they induce different responses in HDFs. ES-treated HDFs overexpress growth factor-related proteins, leading to protein synthesis, cell proliferation and migration. By contrast, L-PRP treatment induces a response similar to that caused by proinflammatory molecules. These data could explain the contradictory clinical results obtained for the different types of PRP, especially with respect to their leukocyte contents.
Immunohistochemical Demonstration of the pGlu79 α-Synuclein Fragment in Alzheimer’s Disease and Its Tg2576 Mouse Model
Authors: Bluhm Alexandra , Schrempel Sarah , Schilling Stephan , von Hörsten Stephan , Schulze Anja , Roßner Steffen , Hartlage-Rübsamen Maike
Published: July 2022

The deposition of β-amyloid peptides and of α-synuclein proteins is a neuropathological hallmark in the brains of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD) subjects, respectively. However, there is accumulative evidence that both proteins are not exclusive for their clinical entity but instead co-exist and interact with each other. Here, we investigated the presence of a newly identified, pyroglutamate79-modified α-synuclein variant (pGlu79-aSyn)—along with the enzyme matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3) and glutaminyl cyclase (QC) implicated in its formation—in AD and in the transgenic Tg2576 AD mouse model. In the human brain, pGlu79-aSyn was detected in cortical pyramidal neurons, with more distinct labeling in AD compared to control brain tissue. Using immunohistochemical double and triple labelings and confocal laser scanning microscopy, we demonstrate an association of pGlu79-aSyn, MMP-3 and QC with β-amyloid plaques. In addition, pGlu79-aSyn and QC were present in amyloid plaque-associated reactive astrocytes that were also immunoreactive for the chaperone heat shock protein 27 (HSP27). Our data are consistent for the transgenic mouse model and the human clinical condition. We conclude that pGlu79-aSyn can be generated extracellularly or within reactive astrocytes, accumulates in proximity to β-amyloid plaques and induces an astrocytic protein unfolding mechanism involving HSP27.
Small-Molecule Inhibitors Targeting FEN1 for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Yang Fan , Hu Zhigang , Guo Zhigang
Published: July 2022

DNA damage repair plays a key role in maintaining genomic stability and integrity. Flap endonuclease 1 (FEN1) is a core protein in the base excision repair (BER) pathway and participates in Okazaki fragment maturation during DNA replication. Several studies have implicated FEN1 in the regulation of other DNA repair pathways, including homologous recombination repair (HRR) and non-homologous end joining (NHEJ). Abnormal expression or mutation of FEN1 in cells can cause a series of pathological responses, leading to various diseases, including cancers. Moreover, overexpression of FEN1 contributes to drug resistance in several types of cancers. All this supports the hypothesis that FEN1 could be a therapeutic target for cancer treatment. Targeting FEN1 has been verified as an effective strategy in mono or combined treatment of cancer. Small-molecule compounds targeting FEN1 have also been developed and detected in cancer regression. In this review, we summarize the recent development of small-molecule inhibitors targeting FEN1 in recent years, thereby expanding their therapeutic potential and application.
Obesity and Endothelial Function
Authors: Kajikawa Masato , Higashi Yukihito
Published: July 2022

Obesity is a major public health problem and is related to increasing rates of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Over 1.9 billion adults are overweight or obese worldwide and the prevalence of obesity is increasing. Obesity influences endothelial function through obesity-related complications such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. The excess fat accumulation in obesity causes adipocyte dysfunction and induces oxidative stress, insulin resistance, and inflammation leading to endothelial dysfunction. Several anthropometric indices and imaging modalities that are used to evaluate obesity have demonstrated an association between obesity and endothelial function. In the past few decades, there has been great focus on the mechanisms underlying endothelial dysfunction caused by obesity for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular events. This review focuses on pathophysiological mechanisms of obesity-induced endothelial dysfunction and therapeutic targets of obesity.
NAFLD: From Mechanisms to Therapeutic Approaches
Authors: Gariani Karim , Jornayvaz François R.
Published: July 2022

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) now represents the most frequent chronic liver disease worldwide [...]
Interleukin-18 Binding Protein in Immune Regulation and Autoimmune Diseases
Authors: Park Seung Yong , Hisham Yasmin , Shin Hyun Mu , Yeom Su Cheong , Kim Soohyun
Published: July 2022

Natural soluble antagonist and decoy receptor on the surface of the cell membrane are evolving as crucial immune system regulators as these molecules are capable of recognizing, binding, and neutralizing (so-called inhibitors) their targeted ligands. Eventually, these soluble antagonists and decoy receptors terminate signaling by prohibiting ligands from connecting to their receptors on the surface of cell membrane. Interleukin-18 binding protein (IL-18BP) participates in regulating both Th1 and Th2 cytokines. IL-18BP is a soluble neutralizing protein belonging to the immunoglobulin (Ig) superfamily as it harbors a single Ig domain. The Ig domain is essential for its binding to the IL-18 ligand and holds partial homology to the IL-1 receptor 2 (IL-1R2) known as a decoy receptor of IL-1α and IL-1β. IL-18BP was defined as a unique soluble IL-18BP that is distinct from IL-18Rα and IL-18Rβ chain. IL-18BP is encoded by a separated gene, contains 8 exons, and is located at chr.11 q13.4 within the human genome. In this review, we address the difference in the biological activity of IL-18BP isoforms, in the immunity balancing Th1 and Th2 immune response, its critical role in autoimmune diseases, as well as current clinical trials of recombinant IL-18BP (rIL-18BP) or equivalent.
The Effect of SGLT2 Inhibitor Dapagliflozin on Serum Levels of Apelin in T2DM Patients with Heart Failure
Authors: Berezin Alexander A. , Fushtey Ivan M. , Berezin Alexander E.
Published: July 2022

Apelin is a multifunctional peptide that plays a pivotal role in cardiac remodeling and HF manifestation because of counteracting angiotensin-II. We hypothesized that positive influence of sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitor on cardiac function in T2DM patients with HF might be mediated by apelin and that its levels seem to be a target of management. A total of 153 type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients with II/III HF NYHA class and average left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF) of 46% have been enrolled and treated with dapagliflosin. The serum levels of apelin and N-terminal brain natriuretic pro-peptide (NT-proBNP) were measured at baseline and over a 6-month period of dapagliflosin administration. We noticed that administration of dapagliflozin was associated with a significant increase in apelin levels of up to 18.3% and a decrease in NT-proBNP of up to 41.0%. Multivariate logistic regression showed that relative changes of LVEF, LA volume index, and early diastolic blood filling to longitudinal strain ratio were strongly associated with the levels of apelin, whereas NT-proBNP exhibited a borderline significance in this matter. In conclusion, dapagiflosin exerted a positive impact on echocardiographic parameters in close association with an increase in serum apelin levels, which could be a surrogate target for HF management.
Millimeter Wave-Based Non-Destructive Biosensor System for Live Fish Monitoring
Authors: Wang Meng , Yang Yunyue , Mu Boyu , Nikitina Marina A. , Xiao Xinqing
Published: July 2022

Waterless transportation for live grouper is a novel mode of transport that not only saves money, but also lowers wastewater pollution. Technical obstacles remain, however, in achieving intelligent monitoring and a greater survival rate. During live grouper waterless transportation, the stress response is a key indicator that affects the survival life-span of the grouper. Studies based on breathing rate analysis have demonstrated that among many stress response parameters, breathing rate is the most direct parameter to reflect the intensity. Conventional measurement methods, which set up sensors on the gills of groupers, interfere with the normal breathing of living aquatic products and are complex in system design. We designed a new breathing monitoring system based on a completely non-destructive approach. The system allows the real-time monitoring of living aquatic products’ breathing rate by simply placing the millimeter wave radar on the inner wall of the incubator and facing the gills. The system we developed can detect more parameters in the future, and can replace the existing system to simplify the study of stress responses.
Biosensors and Microfluidic Biosensors: From Fabrication to Application
Authors: Kulkarni Madhusudan B. , Ayachit Narasimha H. , Aminabhavi Tejraj M.
Published: July 2022

Biosensors are ubiquitous in a variety of disciplines, such as biochemical, electrochemical, agricultural, and biomedical areas. They can integrate various point-of-care applications, such as in the food, healthcare, environmental monitoring, water quality, forensics, drug development, and biological domains. Multiple strategies have been employed to develop and fabricate miniaturized biosensors, including design, optimization, characterization, and testing. In view of their interactions with high-affinity biomolecules, they find application in the sensitive detection of analytes, even in small sample volumes. Among the many developed techniques, microfluidics have been widely explored; these use fluid mechanics to operate miniaturized biosensors. The currently used commercial devices are bulky, slow in operation, expensive, and require human intervention; thus, it is difficult to automate, integrate, and miniaturize the existing conventional devices for multi-faceted applications. Microfluidic biosensors have the advantages of mobility, operational transparency, controllability, and stability with a small reaction volume for sensing. This review addresses biosensor technologies, including the design, classification, advances, and challenges in microfluidic-based biosensors. The value chain for developing miniaturized microfluidic-based biosensor devices is critically discussed, including fabrication and other associated protocols for application in various point-of-care testing applications.
Effect of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy on Nocturnal Autonomic Activity in Patients with Fibromyalgia: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Prados Germán , Miró Elena , Martínez M. Pilar , Sánchez Ana I. , Pichot Vincent , Medina-Casado Marta , Chouchou Florian
Published: July 2022

Objective: fibromyalgia is a complex chronic pain syndrome characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, insomnia and autonomic alterations. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is regarded as a promising treatment in fibromyalgia, but its impact on autonomic function remains uncertain. In this research, we studied the effect of CBT on autonomic functions in fibromyalgia. Methods: Twenty-five participants underwent overnight polysomnographic recordings before and after CBT programs focused on pain (CBT-P) or a hybrid modality focused on pain and insomnia (CBT-C). Sleep quality, daily pain, depression and anxiety were assessed by self-reported questionnaires. We analyzed heart rate variability (HRV) using high-frequency power (HF) as a marker for parasympathetic activity, and low-frequency power (LF) and the LF/HF ratio as relative sympathetic markers during wakefulness and at each sleep stage. Results: After treatment, 14 patients (/25, 58.0%) reported improvement in their sleep: 6 in the CBT-P condition (/12, 50%), and 8 in the CBT-C condition (/13, 61.5%). We found that, regardless of the type of CBT, patients who reported improvement in sleep quality (n = 14, 58%) had an increase in HF during stages N2 (p < 0.05) and N3 (p < 0.05). These changes were related to improvement in sleep quality (N2, r = −0.43, p = 0.033) but not to pain, depression or anxiety. Conclusions: This study showed an improvement in parasympathetic cardiac control during non-rapid-eye-movement sleep following CBT in fibromyalgia participants who reported better sleep after this therapy. CBT may have a cardio-protective effect and HRV could be used as a sleep monitoring tool in fibromyalgia.
The Prevalence of Dizziness and Vertigo in COVID-19 Patients: A Systematic Review
Authors: Korres George , Kitsos Dimitrios K. , Kaski Diego , Tsogka Anthi , Giannopoulos Sotirios , Giannopapas Vasileios , Sideris Giorgos , Tyrellis Giorgos , Voumvourakis Konstantine
Published: July 2022

Clinical manifestations of COVID-19 include symptoms of vertigo and dizziness, which is rather unsurprising, since SARS-CoV-2 neurotropism may inflict a broad spectrum of neuropathic effects. The widespread nature of central and peripheral audiovestibular pathways suggests that there may be several probable pathophysiological mechanisms. The cytokine storm, CNS infiltration of the virus through ACE 2 receptors, and other systemic factors can be responsible for the significant number of COVID-19 patients reported to experience symptoms of vertigo and dizziness. In this paper, we present a systematic review of clinical studies reporting the detection of dizziness and vertigo as clinical manifestations of COVID-19 and discuss their etiopathogenesis.
A Retrospective Evaluation to Assess Reliability of Electrophysiological Methods for Diagnosis of Hearing Loss in Infants
Authors: Mandalà Marco , Mazzocchin Luca , Ward Bryan Kevin , Viberti Francesca , Bindi Ilaria , Salerni Lorenzo , Colletti Giacomo , Colletti Liliana , Colletti Vittorio
Published: July 2022

Background: An electrophysiological investigation with auditory brainstem response (ABR), round window electrocochleography (RW-ECoG), and electrical-ABR (E-ABR) was performed in children with suspected hearing loss with the purpose of early diagnosis and treatment. The effectiveness of the electrophysiological measures as diagnostic tools was assessed in this study. Methods: In this retrospective case series with chart review, 790 children below 3 years of age with suspected profound hearing loss were tested with impedance audiometry and underwent electrophysiological investigation (ABR, RW-ECoG, and E-ABR). All implanted cases underwent pure-tone audiometry (PTA) of the non-implanted ear at least 5 years after surgery for a long-term assessment of the reliability of the protocol. Results: Two hundred and fourteen children showed bilateral severe-to-profound hearing loss. In 56 children with either ABR thresholds between 70 and 90 dB nHL or no response, RW-ECoG showed thresholds below 70 dB nHL. In the 21 infants with bilateral profound sensorineural hearing loss receiving a unilateral cochlear implant, no statistically significant differences were found in auditory thresholds in the non-implanted ear between electrophysiological measures and PTA at the last follow-up (p > 0.05). Eight implanted children showed residual hearing below 2000 Hz worse than 100 dB nHL and 2 children showed pantonal residual hearing worse than 100 dB nHL (p > 0.05). Conclusion: The audiological evaluation of infants with a comprehensive protocol is highly reliable. RW-ECoG provided a better definition of hearing thresholds, while E-ABR added useful information in cases of auditory nerve deficiency.
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with Tight Glucose Control and Poor Pre-Injury Stair Climbing Capacity May Predict Postoperative Delirium: A Secondary Analysis
Authors: Liu Kaixi , Song Yanan , Yuan Yi , Li Zhengqian , Wang Xiaoxiao , Zhang Wenchao , Li Yue , Mi Xinning , Han Dengyang , Rong Yulan , Guo Xiangyang , Wang Geng
Published: July 2022

(1) Background: Previous evidence demonstrates that tight glycemic control and good physical function could reduce the risk of delirium. This study aimed to investigate whether the occurrence of postoperative delirium (POD) in older hip fracture surgery patients is associated with preoperative glycemic control factors or pre-injury physical performance. (2) Methods: Three-hundred and nine individuals aged over 65 years and scheduled for hip fracture surgery were included at a single center. Glycemic control factors and pre-injury physical performance were assessed preoperatively. The presence of delirium was assessed using the Confusion Assessment Method on postoperative hospitalization days. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression models and a risk prediction model of POD were established. (3) Results: Among the 309 patients, 52 (16.83%) experienced POD during the hospital stay. The numbers of pre-injury physical performance and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients were significantly different in the POD and non-POD groups. The multivariable model showed that development of delirium was significantly explained by preoperative fasting blood glucose (FBG) (OR 0.804, p = 0.004), stair climbing (OR 0.709, p = 0.003), T2DM (odds ratio (OR) 3.654, p = 0.001), and age-adjusted Charlson comorbidity index (ACCI) (OR 1.270, p = 0.038). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of the risk prediction model including those covariates was 0.770. (4) Conclusions: More older T2DM patients develop POD after hip fracture surgery than patients without T2DM. A simple assessment of preoperative FBG and pre-injury stair climbing capacity may identify those at high risk for the development of POD. Higher preoperative FBG and good pre-injury stair climbing capacity are protective factors for POD.