bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genotype X Environment Response of ‘Matooke’ Hybrids (Naritas) to Pseudocercospora fijiensis, the Cause of Black Sigatoka in Banana
Authors: Kimunye Janet , Jomanga Kennedy , Tazuba Anthony Fredrick , Were Evans , Viljoen Altus , Swennen Rony , Mahuku George
Published: June 2021

Growing bananas resistant to Pseudocercospora fijiensis, the cause of black Sigatoka, is the preferred disease control strategy for resource-poor farmers. Banana breeding programs in east Africa have developed 27 Matooke hybrids (commonly known as NARITAs) with higher yields than local landraces. To assess the response of NARITA hybrids to P. fijiensis, 22 hybrids were evaluated under natural field conditions in four locations—Kawanda and Mbarara in Uganda, and Maruku, and Mitarula in Tanzania—between 2016 and 2018 for three crop cycles. Black Sigatoka was visually assessed and the area under the disease progress curve calculated for each plant over time. Significant differences (p < 0.001) were observed between genotypes, environments, and their interaction. The highest contributor to black Sigatoka severity (39.1%) was the environment, followed by the genotype (37.5%) and the genotype Χ environment interaction (GEI) (23.4%). NARITA 2, 7, 14, 21 and 23 were resistant and the most stable hybrids across locations. If other attributes such as the yield and taste are acceptable to end-users, these hybrids can be released to farmers in the region to replace highly susceptible landraces. Mitarula was identified as an ideal site for evaluating banana against black Sigatoka and should be used as a representative location to minimize costs of disease evaluations.
A Grain-Based SARA Challenge Affects the Composition of Epimural and Mucosa-Associated Bacterial Communities throughout the Digestive Tract of Dairy Cows
Authors: Plaizier Jan C. , Danscher Anne-Mette , Azevedo Paula A. , Derakhshani Hooman , Andersen Pia H. , Khafipour Ehsan
Published: June 2021

The effects of a subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA) challenge on the composition of epimural and mucosa-associated bacterial communities throughout the digestive tract were determined in eight non-lactating Holstein cows. Treatments included feeding a control diet containing 19.6% dry matter (DM) starch and a SARA-challenge diet containing 33.3% DM starch for two days after a 4-day grain step-up. Subsequently, epithelial samples from the rumen and mucosa samples from the duodenum, proximal, middle and distal jejunum, ileum, cecum and colon were collected. Extracted DNA from these samples were analyzed using MiSeq Illumina sequencing of the V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene. Distinct clustering patterns for each diet existed for all sites. The SARA challenge decreased microbial diversity at all sites, with the exception of the middle jejunum. The SARA challenge also affected the relative abundances of several major phyla and genera at all sites but the magnitude of these effects differed among sites. In the rumen and colon, the largest effects were an increase in the relative abundance of Firmicutes and a reduction of Bacteroidetes. In the small intestine, the largest effect was an increase in the relative abundance of Actinobacteria. The grain-based SARA challenge conducted in this study did not only affect the composition and cause dysbiosis of epimural microbiota in the rumen, it also affected the mucosa-associated microbiota in the intestines. To assess the extent of this dysbiosis, its effects on the functionality of these microbiota must be determined in future.
Real-Time PCR as an Alternative Technique for Detection of Dermatophytes in Cattle Herds
Authors: Łagowski Dominik , Gnat Sebastian , Nowakiewicz Aneta , Trościańczyk Aleksandra
Published: June 2021

Dermatophytes are filamentous fungi with the ability to digest and grow on keratinized substrates. The ongoing improvements in fungal detection techniques give new scope for clinical implementations in laboratories and veterinary clinics, including the monitoring of the disease and carrier status. The technologically advanced methods for dermatophyte detection include molecular methods based on PCR. In this context, the aim of this study was to carry out tests on the occurrence of dermatophytes in cattle herds using qPCR methods and a comparative analysis with conventional methods. Each sample collected from ringworm cases and from asymptomatic cattle was divided into three parts and subjected to the real-time PCR technique, direct light microscopy analysis, and culture-based methods. The use of the real-time PCR technique with pan-dermatophyte primers detected the presence of dermatophytes in the sample with a 10.84% (45% vs. 34.17%) higher efficiency than direct analysis with light microscopy. Moreover, a dermatophyte culture was obtained from all samples with a positive qPCR result. In conclusion, it seems that this method can be used with success to detect dermatophytes and monitor cowsheds in ringworm cases and carriers in cattle.
Smartphone-Based Pelvic Movement Asymmetry Measures for Clinical Decision Making in Equine Lameness Assessment
Authors: Marunova Eva , Dod Leea , Witte Stefan , Pfau Thilo
Published: June 2021

Visual evaluation of hindlimb lameness in the horse is challenging. Objective measurements, simultaneous to visual assessment, are used increasingly to aid clinical decision making. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of pelvic movement asymmetry with lameness scores (UK scale 0–10) of one experienced veterinarian. Absolute values of pelvic asymmetry measures, quantifying differences between vertical minima (AbPDMin), maxima (AbPDMax) and upward movement amplitudes (AbPDUp), were recorded during straight-line trot with a smartphone attached to the sacrum (n = 301 horses). Overall, there was a significant difference between lameness grades for all three asymmetry measures (p < 0.001). Five pair-wise differences (out of 10) were significant for AbPDMin (p ≤ 0.02) and seven for AbPDMax (p ≤ 0.03) and AbPDUp (p ≤ 0.02). Receiver operating curves assessed sensitivity and specificity of asymmetry measures against lameness scores. AbPDUp had the highest discriminative power (area under curve (AUC) = 0.801–0.852) followed by AbPDMax (AUC = 0.728–0.813) and AbPDMin (AUC = 0.688–0.785). Cut-off points between non-lame (grade 0) and lame horses (grades 1–4) with a minimum sensitivity of 75% were identified as AbPDUp ≥ 7.5 mm (67.6% specificity), AbPDMax ≥ 4.5 mm (51.9% specificity) and AbPDMin ≥ 2.5 mm (33.3% specificity). In conclusion, pelvic upward movement amplitude difference (AbPDUp) was the asymmetry parameter with the highest discriminative power in this study.
Sperm Metabolomics through Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
Authors: Lombó Marta , Ruiz-Díaz Sara , Gutiérrez-Adán Alfonso , Sánchez-Calabuig María-Jesús
Published: June 2021

This report reviews current knowledge of sperm metabolomics analysis using proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1 H-NMR) with particular emphasis on human and farm animals. First, we present the benefits of NMR over other techniques to identify sperm metabolites and then describe the specific methodology required for NMR sperm analysis, stressing the importance of analyzing metabolites extracted from both the hydrophilic and lipophilic phases. This is followed by a description of advances produced to date in the use of NMR to diagnose infertility in humans and to identify metabolic differences among the sperm of mammalian herbivore, carnivore, and omnivore species. This last application of NMR mainly seeks to explore the possible use of lipids to fuel sperm physiology, contrary to previous theories that glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) are the only sources of sperm energy. This review describes the use of NMR to identify sperm and seminal plasma metabolites as possible indicators of semen quality, and to examine the metabolites needed to maintain sperm motility, induce their capacitation, and consequently, to predict animal fertility.
Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Meropenem by Extended or Continuous Infusion in Low Body Weight Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Luque Sonia , Benítez-Cano Adela , Larrañaga Leire , Sorlí Luisa , Navarrete María Eugenia , Campillo Nuria , Carazo Jesús , Ramos Isabel , Adalia Ramón , Grau Santiago
Published: June 2021

Background: Pathophysiological changes such as extreme body weights in critically ill patients with severe infections may alter the pharmacokinetics (PK) of antimicrobials, leading to treatment failure or toxicity. There are almost no PK data on meropenem in critically ill patients with low body weight (LwBW) and therefore information is lacking on the most appropriate dosing regimens, especially when administered by extended infusion. Objectives: To assess if the current administered doses of meropenem could lead to supratherapeutic concentrations in LwBW patients and to identify the factors independently associated with overexposure. Methods: A matched case-control 1:1 study of surgical critically ill patients treated with meropenem administered by extended or continuous infusion and undergoing therapeutic drug monitoring was conducted. Cases (patients with LwBW (body mass index (BMI) < 18.5 kg/m2)) were matched with normal body weight controls (NBW) (patients with BMI ≥ 18.5 kg/m2 and ≤30 kg/m2)) by age, gender, baseline renal function and severity status (APACHE II score). A 100% fT > MIC was considered an optimal pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) target and 100% fT > 10 × MIC as supratherapeutic exposure. Results: Thirty-six patients (18 cases and 18 controls) were included (median (range) age, 57.5 (26–75) years; 20 (55.6% male)). Meropenem was administered by 6 h (extended) or 8 h (continuous) infusion at a median (range) daily dose of 5 (1–6) g/day. Similar median meropenem trough plasma concentrations (Cmin,ss), measured pre-dose on day three to four of treatment) were observed in the two groups (19.9 (22.2) mg/L vs 22.4 (25.8) mg/L, p > 0.999). No differences in the proportion of patients with an optimal or a supratherapeutic PKPD target between cases and controls were observed. A baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 90 mL/min was the only factor independently associated with a supratherapeutic PK/PD target. Conclusions: LwBW seems not to be a risk factor for achieving a supratherapeutic PK/PD target in critically ill patients receiving meropenem at standard doses by extended or continuous infusion.
The Rediscovery of Honey for Skin Repair: Recent Advances in Mechanisms for Honey-Mediated Wound Healing and Scaffolded Application Techniques
Authors: Angioi Roberta , Morrin Aoife , White Blánaid
Published: June 2021

Honey is a honey-bee product obtained mainly by the enzymatic processing of nectar from a variety of plants, which leads to the wide range of colours and flavours available on the market. These organoleptic and nutritional features are influenced by the chemical composition, which in turn depends on the botanical origin. Bioactive compounds account for honey beneficial activity in medical applications, which explains the extensive use of honey in ethno-pharmacology since antiquity, from cough remedies to dermatological treatments. Wound healing is one of the main therapeutic uses of honey, and various design options in pharmaceutical technology such as smart delivery systems and advanced dressings are currently being developed to potentiate honey’s valuable properties for better performance and improved final outcome. In this review, we will focus on the latest research that discloses crucial factors in determining what properties are most beneficial when considering honey as a medicinal product. We will present the most recent updates on the possible mechanisms responsible for the exceptional effects of this ageless therapeutical remedy on skin repair. Furthermore, the state-of-the-art in application techniques (incorporation into scaffolds as an alternative to direct administration) used to enhance honey-mediated wound-healing properties are explored.
Relative Hand Grip and Back Muscle Strength, but Not Mean Muscle Strength, as Risk Factors for Incident Metabolic Syndrome and Its Metabolic Components: 16 Years of Follow-Up in a Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Jeon Yoo Jeong , Lee Seung Ku , Shin Chol
Published: June 2021

Muscle strength is associated with health outcomes and can be considered an important disease predictor. There are several studies examining the relationship between hand grip strength (HGS) and metabolic syndrome (MetS). However, no results have been reported for long term longitudinal studies. In this study, we investigated the relationship between mean HGS, back muscle strength (BMS), relative HGS and BMS, and MetS. A total of 2538 non-MetS subjects aged 40–69 years (1215 women and 1323 men) in the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES) Ansan cohort were followed for 16 years. The relationships between incident MetS (iMetS) and muscle strength were estimated using Cox proportional hazard regression models after adjusting for the confounding factors. Increases in standard deviation (SD) and the lower quartile groups for relative HGS and BMS were significantly associated with iMetS in men and women. Moreover, increases in SD and high quintile groups (decreased HGS group) for the delta change in the mean and relative HGS were significantly associated with iMetS in men only. In addition, SD increases for the relative HGS and BMS were significantly associated with iMetS components in men and women. The present study suggests that lower relative HGS and BMS are associated with high risk for the future development of MetS.
Novel Approaches for the Treatment of Necrotic Immature Teeth Using Regenerative Endodontic Procedures: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Castro-Gutiérrez María Eugenia Marcela , Argueta-Figueroa Liliana , Fuentes-Mascorro Gisela , Moreno-Rodríguez Adriana , Torres-Rosas Rafael
Published: June 2021

The induction of a blood clot allowing apical revascularization with a subsequent apical closure was reported several decades ago. Recent research has been focused on examining different scaffolds for regenerative endodontic procedures (REPs). The aim of this study was to analyze the main outcomes in novel REP reported in the literature. The search was conducted using six databases. Only clinical trials aiming at the study of scaffolds for REP in the treatment of necrotic immature teeth were included. The risk of bias was assessed by the Risk of Bias 2 tool. Additionally, the quality of the included studies was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria. A summary of individual studies and a meta-analysis were performed. Relative risks of data from clinical success and root length changes were used from the studies, and these were combined using a random-effects meta-analysis. The meta-analysis results reveal that the main outcomes showed no differences between the patients who received REP with scaffolds or only REP. Limitations include that the certainty of evidence was low and that there was significant heterogeneity in the scaffolds used in the included studies. The data suggest that the blood clot remains as the gold standard for REP.
Cartilage Conduction Hearing and Its Clinical Application
Authors: Nishimura Tadashi , Hosoi Hiroshi , Shimokura Ryota , Morimoto Chihiro , Kitahara Tadashi
Published: June 2021

Cartilage conduction (CC) is a form of conduction that allows a relatively loud sound to be audible when a transducer is placed on the aural cartilage. The CC transmission mechanism has gradually been elucidated, allowing for the development of CC hearing aids (CC-HAs), which are clinically available in Japan. However, CC is still not fully understood. This review summarizes previous CC reports to facilitate its understanding. Concerning the transmission mechanism, the sound pressure level in the ear canal was found to increase when the transducer was attached to the aural cartilage, compared to an unattached condition. Further, inserting an earplug and injecting water into the ear canal shifted the CC threshold, indicating the considerable influence of cartilage–air conduction on the transmission. In CC, the aural cartilage resembles the movable plate of a vibration speaker. This unique transduction mechanism is responsible for the CC characteristics. In terms of clinical applications, CC-HAs are a good option for patients with aural atresia, despite inferior signal transmission compared to bone conduction in bony atretic ears. The advantages of CC, namely comfort, stable fixation, esthetics, and non-invasiveness, facilitate its clinical use.
On a Class of Isoperimetric Constrained Controlled Optimization Problems
Authors: Treanţă Savin
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we investigate the Lagrange dynamics generated by a class of isoperimetric constrained controlled optimization problems involving second-order partial derivatives and boundary conditions. More precisely, we derive necessary optimality conditions for the considered class of variational control problems governed by path-independent curvilinear integral functionals. Moreover, the theoretical results presented in the paper are accompanied by an illustrative example. Furthermore, an algorithm is proposed to emphasize the steps to be followed to solve a control problem such as the one studied in this paper.
Electrochemical Biosensing of Dopamine Neurotransmitter: A Review
Authors: Lakard Sophie , Pavel Ileana-Alexandra , Lakard Boris
Published: June 2021

Neurotransmitters are biochemical molecules that transmit a signal from a neuron across the synapse to a target cell, thus being essential to the function of the central and peripheral nervous system. Dopamine is one of the most important catecholamine neurotransmitters since it is involved in many functions of the human central nervous system, including motor control, reward, or reinforcement. It is of utmost importance to quantify the amount of dopamine since abnormal levels can cause a variety of medical and behavioral problems. For instance, Parkinson’s disease is partially caused by the death of dopamine-secreting neurons. To date, various methods have been developed to measure dopamine levels, and electrochemical biosensing seems to be the most viable due to its robustness, selectivity, sensitivity, and the possibility to achieve real-time measurements. Even if the electrochemical detection is not facile due to the presence of electroactive interfering species with similar redox potentials in real biological samples, numerous strategies have been employed to resolve this issue. The objective of this paper is to review the materials (metals and metal oxides, carbon materials, polymers) that are frequently used for the electrochemical biosensing of dopamine and point out their respective advantages and drawbacks. Different types of dopamine biosensors, including (micro)electrodes, biosensing platforms, or field-effect transistors, are also described.
Targeted Treatment of Head and Neck (Pre)Cancer: Preclinical Target Identification and Development of Novel Therapeutic Applications
Authors: van Harten Anne M. , Brakenhoff Ruud H.
Published: June 2021

Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) develop in the mucosal lining of the upper-aerodigestive tract. In carcinogen-induced HNSCC, tumors emerge from premalignant mucosal changes characterized by tumor-associated genetic alterations, also coined as ‘fields’ that are occasionally visible as leukoplakia or erythroplakia lesions but are mostly invisible. Consequently, HNSCC is generally diagnosed de novo at more advanced stages in about 70% of new diagnosis. Despite intense multimodality treatment protocols, the overall 5-years survival rate is 50–60% for patients with advanced stage of disease and seems to have reached a plateau. Of notable concern is the lack of further improvement in prognosis despite advances in treatment. This can be attributed to the late clinical presentation, failure of advanced HNSCC to respond to treatment, the deficit of effective targeted therapies to eradicate tumors and precancerous changes, and the lack of suitable markers for screening and personalized therapy. The molecular landscape of head and neck cancer has been elucidated in great detail, but the absence of oncogenic mutations hampers the identification of druggable targets for therapy to improve outcome of HNSCC. Currently, functional genomic approaches are being explored to identify potential therapeutic targets. Identification and validation of essential genes for both HNSCC and oral premalignancies, accompanied with biomarkers for therapy response, are being investigated. Attentive diagnosis and targeted therapy of the preceding oral premalignant (preHNSCC) changes may prevent the development of tumors. As classic oncogene addiction through activating mutations is not a realistic concept for treatment of HNSCC, synthetic lethality and collateral lethality need to be exploited, next to immune therapies. In recent studies it was shown that cell cycle regulation and DNA damage response pathways become significantly altered in HNSCC causing replication stress, which is an avenue that deserves further exploitation as an HNSCC vulnerability for treatment. The focus of this review is to summarize the current literature on the preclinical identification of potential druggable targets for therapy of (pre)HNSCC, emerging from the variety of gene knockdown and knockout strategies, and the testing of targeted inhibitors. We will conclude with a future perspective on targeted therapy of HNSCC and premalignant changes.
Evaluation of Somatic Mutations in Solid Metastatic Pan-Cancer Patients
Authors: Roosan Moom R. , Mambetsariev Isa , Pharaon Rebecca , Fricke Jeremy , Baroz Angel R. , Chao Joseph , Chen Chen , Nasser Mohd W. , Chirravuri-Venkata Ramakanth , Jain Maneesh , Smith Lynette , Yost Susan E. , Reckamp Karen L. , Pillai Raju , Arvanitis Leonidas , Afkhami Michelle , Wang Edward W. , Chung Vincent , Cristea Mihaela , Fakih Marwan , Koczywas Marianna , Massarelli Erminia , Mortimer Joanne , Yuan Yuan , Batra Surinder K. , Pal Sumanta , Salgia Ravi
Published: June 2021

Metastasis continues to be the primary cause of all cancer-related deaths despite the recent advancements in cancer treatments. To evaluate the role of mutations in overall survival (OS) and treatment outcomes, we analyzed 957 metastatic patients with seven major cancer types who had available molecular testing results with a FoundationOne CDx® panel. The most prevalent genes with somatic mutations were TP53, KRAS, APC, and LRP1B. In this analysis, these genes had mutation frequencies higher than in publicly available datasets. We identified that the somatic mutations were seven mutually exclusive gene pairs and an additional fifty-two co-occurring gene pairs. Mutations in the mutually exclusive gene pair APC and CDKN2A showed an opposite effect on the overall survival. However, patients with CDKN2A mutations showed significantly shorter OS (HR: 1.72, 95% CI: 1.34–2.21, p < 0.001) after adjusting for cancer type, age at diagnosis, and sex. Five-year post metastatic diagnosis survival analysis showed a significant improvement in OS (median survival 28 and 43 months in pre-2015 and post-2015 metastatic diagnosis, respectively, p = 0.00021) based on the year of metastatic diagnosis. Although the use of targeted therapies after metastatic diagnosis prolonged OS, the benefit was not statistically significant. However, longer five-year progression-free survival (PFS) was significantly associated with targeted therapy use (median 10.9 months (CI: 9.7–11.9 months) compared to 9.1 months (CI: 8.1–10.1 months) for non-targeted therapy, respectively, p = 0.0029). Our results provide a clinically relevant overview of the complex molecular landscape and survival mechanisms in metastatic solid cancers.
Eribulin and Paclitaxel Differentially Alter Extracellular Vesicles and Their Cargo from Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Pederson Petra J. , Liang Huiyun , Filonov Daria , Mooberry Susan L.
Published: June 2021

Extracellular vesicles play a central role in intercellular communication and contribute to cancer progression, including the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Microtubule targeting agents (MTAs) including eribulin and paclitaxel continue to provide significant value in cancer therapy and their abilities to inhibit oncogenic signaling pathways, including eribulin’s capacity to reverse EMT are being revealed. Because microtubules are involved in the intracellular trafficking required for the formation and cargo loading of small extracellular vesicles (sEVs), we investigated whether MTA-mediated disruption of microtubule-dependent transport would impact sEV release and their cargo. Eribulin and paclitaxel caused an intracellular accumulation of CD63, a tetraspanin component of sEVs, in late/multivesicular endosomes of triple-negative breast cancer cells, consistent with the disruption of endosomal sorting and exosome cargo loading in these cells. While the concentrations of sEVs released from MTA-treated cells were not significantly altered, levels of CD63 and the CD63-associated cargos, ILK and β-integrin, were reduced in sEVs isolated from eribulin-treated HCC1937 cells as compared to vehicle or paclitaxel-treated cells. These results show that eribulin can reduce specific sEV cargos, including ILK, a major transducer of EMT in the tumor microenvironment, which may contribute to eribulin’s ability to reverse EMT to promote anticancer efficacy.
Extracellular Vesicles as a Novel Liquid Biopsy-Based Diagnosis for the Central Nervous System, Head and Neck, Lung, and Gastrointestinal Cancers: Current and Future Perspectives
Authors: Testa Anna , Venturelli Emilio , Brizzi Maria Felice
Published: June 2021

Early diagnosis, along with innovative treatment options, are crucial to increase the overall survival of cancer patients. In the last decade, extracellular vesicles (EVs) have gained great interest in biomarker discovery. EVs are bilayer lipid membrane limited structures, released by almost all cell types, including cancer cells. The EV cargo, which consists of RNAs, proteins, DNA, and lipids, directly mirrors the cells of origin. EVs can be recovered from several body fluids, including blood, cerebral spinal fluid (CSF), saliva, and Broncho-Alveolar Lavage Fluid (BALF), by non-invasive or minimally invasive approaches, and are therefore proposed as feasible cancer diagnostic tools. In this review, methodologies for EV isolation and characterization and their impact as diagnostics for the central nervous system, head and neck, lung, and gastrointestinal cancers are outlined. For each of these tumours, recent data on the potential clinical applications of the EV’s unique cargo, alone or in combination with currently available tumour biomarkers, have been deeply discussed.
Reduced Levels of Drp1 Protect against Development of Retinal Vascular Lesions in Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Kim Dongjoon , Sesaki Hiromi , Roy Sayon
Published: June 2021

High glucose (HG)-induced Drp1 overexpression contributes to mitochondrial dysfunction and promotes apoptosis in retinal endothelial cells. However, it is unknown whether inhibiting Drp1 overexpression protects against the development of retinal vascular cell loss in diabetes. To investigate whether reduced Drp1 level is protective against diabetes-induced retinal vascular lesions, four groups of mice: wild type (WT) control mice, streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice, Drp1+/− mice, and STZ-induced diabetic Drp1+/− mice were examined after 16 weeks of diabetes. Western Blot analysis indicated a significant increase in Drp1 expression in the diabetic retinas compared to those of WT mice; retinas of diabetic Drp1+/− mice showed reduced Drp1 level compared to those of diabetic mice. A significant increase in the number of acellular capillaries (AC) and pericyte loss (PL) was observed in the retinas of diabetic mice compared to those of the WT control mice. Importantly, a significant decrease in the number of AC and PL was observed in retinas of diabetic Drp1+/− mice compared to those of diabetic mice concomitant with increased expression of pro-apoptotic genes, Bax, cleaved PARP, and increased cleaved caspase-3 activity. Preventing diabetes-induced Drp1 overexpression may have protective effects against the development of vascular lesions, characteristic of diabetic retinopathy.
TGF-β/Smad Signalling in Neurogenesis: Implications for Neuropsychiatric Diseases
Authors: Hiew Lih-Fhung , Poon Chi-Him , You Heng-Ze , Lim Lee-Wei
Published: June 2021

TGF-β/Smad signalling has been the subject of extensive research due to its role in the cell cycle and carcinogenesis. Modifications to the TGF-β/Smad signalling pathway have been found to produce disparate effects on neurogenesis. We review the current research on canonical and non-canonical TGF-β/Smad signalling pathways and their functions in neurogenesis. We also examine the observed role of neurogenesis in neuropsychiatric disorders and the relationship between TGF-β/Smad signalling and neurogenesis in response to stressors. Overlapping mechanisms of cell proliferation, neurogenesis, and the development of mood disorders in response to stressors suggest that TGF-β/Smad signalling is an important regulator of stress response and is implicated in the behavioural outcomes of mood disorders.
Weight Loss during Calcination and Sintering Process of Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3–Bi1/2(Mg2/3Nb1/3)O3 Composite Lead-Free Piezoelectric Ceramics
Authors: Afzal Syed , Hussain Fayaz , Siyal Sajid , Javed Muhammad , Saleem Muhammad , Imran Muhammad , Assiri Mohammed , Bahajjaj Aboud , Ghfar Ayman , AL-Anazy Murefah , Ouladsmane Mohamed , Al-Tamrah Saad , Ali Shafaqat
Published: June 2021

(1 − x)(Na0.5Bi0.5)TiO3–xBi(Mg2/3Nb1/3)O3 ceramics with x = 0.00 mol.% (0BMN), 0.01 mol.% (1BMN), 0.03 mol.% (3BMN), and 0.05 mol.% (5BMN) were synthesized using a solid-state processing technique. The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) of uncalcined samples up to 730 °C showed that the maximum weight loss was observed for 3BMN, whereas the minimum weight loss was attributed to the 0BMN sample. After that, calcination was performed at 800 °C for 4 h. The XRD of calcined samples showed the successful formation of the perovskite phase with no impurity phases. 1BMN and 3BMN samples showed some of the lattice strain; however, a morphotropic phase boundary (MPB) existed around x = 0.03 between the rhombohedral and tetragonal structure. The TGA of the green pellets showed weight loss up to the sintering temperature (1100 °C) and during the 3 h holding period. 5BMN showed the maximum weight loss up to sintering temperature, as well as during the holding period, whereas 0BMN displayed the minimum weight loss up to sintering temperature, as well as some weight gain during the holding period. The relative permittivity (εr) was maximum at low frequencies, but the addition of BMN improved the εr. The frequency dependence of dielectric loss (tanδ) showed that the maximum loss was observed for 3BMN at lower frequencies, and 5BMN showed the maximum loss at higher frequency among all samples.
Study on the ZrN/Ag2O Micro–Nano Gradient Composite Structure Constructed on Pure Ti for Biomaterials
Authors: Tian Tian , Dang Bo , Ding Feng , Li Fengkun , Yang Kai , Yuan Jianzhi , Wei Dongbo , Zhang Pingze
Published: June 2021

Titanium and titanium alloys have been extensively utilized in biomedical implants due to their excellent comprehensive mechanical properties and biocompatibility. In this study, a ZrN/Ag2O micro–nano gradient composite structure was prepared on the surface of pure Ti by multi-arc ion plating (MAIP) technique and metal vapor vacuum arc (MEVVA) ion implantation technology. This study indicated that a dramatic improvement in performance in the surface hardness (~1800 HV0.1) was attributed to the presence of the ceramic phase (ZrN) with high hardness included in composite structure. The relatively low wear rate of gradient composite structure confirmed its excellent performance in abrasion resistance and the abrasion mechanism of gradient composite structure was mainly abrasive wear. After the potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) tests, because of the synergy effect of ZrN micron coating and Ag2O nanoparticles, the ZrN/Ag2O gradient coatings indicated the highest free corrosion potential (Ecorr) and lowest corrosion current density (icorr) in Ringer’s solution, and the polarization resistances of multilayer coatings were greater than that of the substrate, exhibiting positive effects on retarding localized corrosion tendency. Additionally, the suitable dose of ZrN/Ag2O gradient composite coating can obtain antibacterial ability, which exerts no significant cytotoxicity and even excellent cytocompatibility over a longer service process. Furthermore, this study is conducive to design and develop for multifunctional coatings of implant materials.
Comment on Lionte et al. Association of Multiple Glycemic Parameters at Hospital Admission with Mortality and Short-Term Outcomes in Acutely Poisoned Patients. Diagnostics 2021, 11, 361
Authors: Ferrés-Padró Vicenç , Solà-Muñoz Silvia , Jiménez-Fàbrega Francesc Xavier , Nogué-Xarau Santiago
Published: June 2021

We have read with great interest the article by Lionte et al., “Association of multiple glycemic parameters at hospital admission with mortality and short-term outcomes in acutely poisoned patients”, recently published in your journal [...]
Risk Stratification for ECMO Requirement in COVID-19 ICU Patients Using Quantitative Imaging Features in CT Scans on Admission
Authors: Gresser Eva , Reich Jakob , Sabel Bastian O. , Kunz Wolfgang G. , Fabritius Matthias P. , Rübenthaler Johannes , Ingrisch Michael , Wassilowsky Dietmar , Irlbeck Michael , Ricke Jens , Puhr-Westerheide Daniel
Published: June 2021

(1) Background: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) therapy in intensive care units (ICUs) remains the last treatment option for Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients with severely affected lungs but is highly resource demanding. Early risk stratification for the need of ECMO therapy upon admission to the hospital using artificial intelligence (AI)-based computed tomography (CT) assessment and clinical scores is beneficial for patient assessment and resource management; (2) Methods: Retrospective single-center study with 95 confirmed COVID-19 patients admitted to the participating ICUs. Patients requiring ECMO therapy (n = 14) during ICU stay versus patients without ECMO treatment (n = 81) were evaluated for discriminative clinical prediction parameters and AI-based CT imaging features and their diagnostic potential to predict ECMO therapy. Reported patient data include clinical scores, AI-based CT findings and patient outcomes; (3) Results: Patients subsequently allocated to ECMO therapy had significantly higher sequential organ failure (SOFA) scores (p < 0.001) and significantly lower oxygenation indices on admission (p = 0.009) than patients with standard ICU therapy. The median time from hospital admission to ECMO placement was 1.4 days (IQR 0.2–4.0). The percentage of lung involvement on AI-based CT assessment on admission to the hospital was significantly higher in ECMO patients (p < 0.001). In binary logistic regression analyses for ECMO prediction including age, sex, body mass index (BMI), SOFA score on admission, lactate on admission and percentage of lung involvement on admission CTs, only SOFA score (OR 1.32, 95% CI 1.08–1.62) and lung involvement (OR 1.06, 95% CI 1.01–1.11) were significantly associated with subsequent ECMO allocation. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves showed an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.83 (95% CI 0.73–0.94) for lung involvement on admission CT and 0.82 (95% CI 0.72–0.91) for SOFA scores on ICU admission. A combined parameter of SOFA on ICU admission and lung involvement on admission CT yielded an AUC of 0.91 (0.84–0.97) with a sensitivity of 0.93 and a specificity of 0.84 for ECMO prediction; (4) Conclusions: AI-based assessment of lung involvement on CT scans on admission to the hospital and SOFA scoring, especially if combined, can be used as risk stratification tools for subsequent requirement for ECMO therapy in patients with severe COVID-19 disease to improve resource management in ICU settings.
A Cross-Sectional Study of Educational Aspects and Self-Reported Learning Difficulties among Female Prisoners in Norway
Authors: Jones Lise Øen , Tveit Leila Våland , Asbjørnsen Arve , Eikeland Ole Johan , Hetland Hilde , Manger Terje
Published: June 2021

The aim of this cross-sectional study was to analyse the educational background, educational desires and participation in education among three samples of female prisoners with Norwegian citizenship in Norwegian prisons over the period from 2009 to 2015. The female participants were n = 106 in 2009, n = 74 in 2012 and n = 79 in 2015, respectively, with a mean age of 38 years. Moreover, the study examined whether self-reported learning difficulties could predict participation in education activity while incarcerated. The results show that the female prisoners included in this study increased their educational level over the studied years. Similar education patterns were observed in the 2009 and 2012 samples regarding all educational levels for the female prisoners. A different pattern was observed in the 2015 data, with 44.3 % having mandatory education as their highest level compared to 57.6 in 2009 and 53.4 in 2012, respectively. However, these differences in percent between the samples at any education level were not significant. Significant differences were, however, found regarding the desire for upper secondary education between the samples in 2009 and 2012, and 2009 and 2015, respectively. In 2009, 20.2% reported upper secondary education as an educational desire, whereas 35.2% reported this as a desire in 2012, and 36.7% in 2015. Participation in educational activity during incarceration also changed during the time period of these studies. Many of the female prisoners participate in educational activity, but a significant difference was found between the samples in 2012 and 2015 as there was a decrease in activity. In 2012, 41.9% did not participate, whereas in 2015, almost 60% (58.2) of the female prisoners did not participate in any educational activity. Both the highest completed education level and self-reported learning difficulties predicted participation in education activity among the female prisoners in the 2015 sample.
A Novel Single-Switch Single-Stage LED Driver with Power Factor Correction and Current Balancing Capability
Authors: Yan Yih-Her , Cheng Hung-Liang , Cheng Chun-An , Chang Yong-Nong , Wu Zong-Xun
Published: June 2021

A novel single-switch single-stage high power factor LED driver is proposed by integrating a flyback converter, a buck–boost converter and a current balance circuit. Only an active switch and a corresponding control circuit are used. The LED power can be adjusted by the control scheme of pulse–width modulation (PWM). The flyback converter performs the function of power factor correction (PFC), which is operated at discontinuous-current mode (DCM) to achieve unity power factor and low total current harmonic distortion (THDi). The buck–boost converter regulates the dc-link voltage to obtain smooth dc voltage for the LED. The current–balance circuit applies the principle of ampere-second balance of capacitors to obtain equal current in each LED string. The steady-state analyses for different operation modes is provided, and the mathematical equations for designing component parameters are conducted. Finally, a 90-W prototype circuit with three LED strings was built and tested. Experimental results show that the current in each LED string is indeed consistent. High power factor and low THDi can be achieved. LED power is regulated from 100% to 25% rated power. Satisfactory performance has proved the feasibility of this circuit.
Environmental Assessment of the Impacts and Benefits of a Salinity Gradient Energy Pilot Plant
Authors: Marin-Coria Etzaguery , Silva Rodolfo , Enriquez Cecilia , Martínez M. Luisa , Mendoza Edgar
Published: June 2021

Although the technologies involved in converting saline gradient energy (SGE) are rapidly developing, few studies have focused on evaluating possible environmental impacts. In this work, the environmental impacts of a hypothetical 50 kW RED plant installed in La Carbonera Lagoon, Yucatan, Mexico, are addressed. The theoretical support was taken from a literature review and analysis of the components involved in the pressure retarded osmosis (PRO) and reverse electrodialysis (RED) technologies. The study was performed under a three-stage scheme (construction, operation, and dismantling) for which the stress-inducing factors that can drive changes in environmental elements (receptors) were determined. In turn, the possible modifications to the dynamics of the ecosystem (responses) were assessed. Since it is a small-scale energy plant, only local impacts are expected. This study shows that a well-designed SGE plant can have a low environmental impact and also be of benefit to local ecotourism and ecosystem conservation while contributing to a clean, renewable energy supply. Moreover, the same plant in another location in the same system could lead to huge modifications to the flows and resident times of the coastal lagoon water, causing great damage to the biotic and abiotic environment.
Metatranscriptome Analysis of Bisphenol A-Exposed Aerobic Granular Sludge
Authors: Cydzik-Kwiatkowska Agnieszka , Grzyb Martyna , Jachimowicz Piotr
Published: June 2021

Understanding of the metabolic pathways connected with a removal of micropollutant bisphenol A (BPA) may help to better design effective wastewater treatment processes. The aim of this study was to determine changes in gene expression in an aerobic granular sludge (AGS) community exposed to BPA. In the study, AGS adapted to BPA degradation was used. In this sludge, BPA was dosed; as a control sample, granules without BPA addition were used. mRNA was isolated from both samples and sequenced using the Illumina platform. Metatranscriptome analysis of AGS exposed to BPA indicated direct biodegradation as the main mechanism of BPA removal from wastewater. High expression of genes coding pilus and flagellin proteins in the BPA-exposed biomass indicated that exposition to BPA stimulated aggregation of microbial cells and formation of biofilm. In the BPA-exposed biomass, nitrogen was mainly used as an energy source, as indicated by the presence of genes coding nitrification enzymes and urease. Moreover, exposition to BPA stimulated expression of genes coding proteins responsible for xenobiotic degradation, including enzymes responsible for benzoate degradation. These results increase knowledge about BPA metabolism in complex microbial communities in wastewater treatment systems and indicate that AGS is suitable for efficiently removing BPA from wastewater.
Novel Features and PRPD Image Denoising Method for Improved Single-Source Partial Discharges Classification in On-Line Hydro-Generators
Authors: Araújo Ramon C. F. , de Oliveira Rodrigo M. S. , Brasil Fernando S. , Barros Fabrício J. B.
Published: June 2021

In this paper, a novel image denoising algorithm and novel input features are proposed. The algorithm is applied to phase-resolved partial discharge (PRPD) diagrams with a single dominant partial discharge (PD) source, preparing them for automatic artificial-intelligence-based classification. It was designed to mitigate several sources of distortions often observed in PRPDs obtained from fully operational hydroelectric generators. The capabilities of the denoising algorithm are the automatic removal of sparse noise and the suppression of non-dominant discharges, including those due to crosstalk. The input features are functions of PD distributions along amplitude and phase, which are calculated in a novel way to mitigate random effects inherent to PD measurements. The impact of the proposed contributions was statistically evaluated and compared to classification performance obtained using formerly published approaches. Higher recognition rates and reduced variances were obtained using the proposed methods, statistically outperforming autonomous classification techniques seen in earlier works. The values of the algorithm’s internal parameters are also validated by comparing the recognition performance obtained with different parameter combinations. All typical PD sources described in hydro-generators PD standards are considered and can be automatically detected.
Zero Energy Building Economic and Energetic Assessment with Simulated and Real Data Using Photovoltaics and Water Flow Glazing
Authors: del Ama Gonzalo Fernando , Moreno Santamaria Belen , Ferrándiz Gea José Antonio , Griffin Matthew , Hernandez Ramos Juan A.
Published: June 2021

The new paradigm of Net Zero Energy buildings is a challenge for architects and engineers, especially in buildings with large glazing areas. Water Flow Glazing (WFG) is a dynamic façade technology shown to reduce heating and cooling loads for buildings significantly. Photovoltaic panels placed on building roofs can generate enough electricity from solar energy without generating greenhouse gases in operation or taking up other building footprints. This paper investigates the techno-economic viability of a grid-connected solar photovoltaic system combined with water flow glazing. An accurate assessment of the economic and energetic feasibility is carried out through simulation software and on-site tests on an actual prototype. The assessment also includes the analysis of global warming potential reduction. A prototype with WFG envelope has been tested. The WFG prototype actual data reported primary energy savings of 62% and 60% CO2 equivalent emission reduction when comparing WFG to a reference triple glazing. Finally, an economic report of the Photovoltaic array showed the Yield Factor and the Levelized Cost of Energy of the system. Savings over the operating lifetime can compensate for the high initial investment that these two technologies require.