bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study on the Improvement Direction of Writing for Academic Purposes as Seen through Meta-analysis
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Han Byeongin
Published: October 2022

This study was attempted to explore the problems in writing for academic purposes and to improve them. The data that is the basis of the study was based on the contents of a survey of university undergraduate students. The main contents of the investigation and analysis are as follows. First, there are problems and improvement directions for ‘reading text’. There are two important things to look at in this part. First, it is a reading methodology that can be accessed in the sense of communication. The other is an analysis of how to solve problems through ‘reading in two directions’. The second of the main contents of the survey and analysis is a study on evaluation criteria and regression. The purpose of this study was to identify the problems and analyze the causes in the method of helping learners understand the standards of feedback. In addition, problems that occur when rewriting is attempted in the process of rewriting are found and methods to improve them are presented. For this study, Cohen’s effect size category, which suggested a methodology for meta-analysis, was used and applied to the analysis.
A Study on Academic Achievement according to the Stress Level of Adolescents in Face-to-face and Non-face-to-face Education after COVID-19
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Lee Jooyoung , Kwon Kihan
Published: October 2022

The purpose of this study is to improve academic achievement through individual stress level management by finding the difference in the stress level perceived by students in 373 high school boys and girls in Seoul-based high school in face-to-face education and non-face-toface education. As a research method, t-test verification and distribution analysis were conducted to find out the correlation between variables using Pearson correlation coefficient, and to find out the difference between variables, and spss 21 was used. The research results derived statistically significant results in which students' learning environment changes before and after COVID-19, that is, face-to-face classes and non-face-to-face classes, affect academic achievement Korean, English, mathematics, society, and science. In addition, learning plan showed significant results in sub-factors of English subject efficacy and self-directed learning ability according to mock education. In future studies, a study on the level of stress according to learners’ academic achievement in a mixed education method of education in a post-pandemic learning environment is suggested.
Higher Education in Heutagogy: Digital Data Narrative
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Choi Wonjae
Published: October 2022

The purpose of this paper is to introduce Heutagogy and the educational model ‘digital data narrative’ that reflects it as a next-generation educational methodology and to examine students’ feedback in an elective course ‘History Database’ in history major where they used Protégé (ontology software). Heutagogy is an educational trend in which learners determine A-Z necessary to create their learning. Digital data narrative refers to an educational model with which students learn and teachers educate digital literacy and data literacy in a narrative fashion - the reconstruction of thinking. In this respect, narrative education theory is the realization of the self-determined learning, Heutagogy. In ‘History Database’ composed of this model, learners showed improvement in digital data literacy and spontaneous motivation for studying occurred.
A Study on the Intention to Use of Issue Tracking System for the Information Security Management System: Focused on Experts and Managers in Information Security
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Hong Bosung , Yoon Byungseop , Chae Myungsin
Published: October 2022

Recently, it is very difficult to flexibly and efficiently operate the ISMS to achieve the purpose of information security of companies, because service complexity is increasing and IT is also being changed very quickly. This study analyzed the intention to apply the Issue tracking system as a tool to efficiently operate the ISMS using the ‘UTAUT’ model because the ITS, a flexible collaboration tool, is applied to various ranges. As a result, it was confirmed that ‘Performance Expectancy’, ‘Social Influence’, and additional variables ‘Future Expansion Expectation’ had a significant effect on usefulness, and that usefulness and ‘Facilitating Conditions’ had a significant effect on ‘Behavioral Intention’. However, it was confirmed that ‘Effort Expectancy’ was not significantly related to ‘Use Behavior’. This study is different from previous studies in that the model was constructed by adding a belief variable based on trust to the existing ‘UTAUT’ model. The insufficient number of sample targets and not applying the moderating effect of the ‘UTAUT’ model are points to be supplemented through follow-studies.
Hermann Kantorowicz’ Concept of Legal Science and the Social Role of Legal Scholarship Today
Authors: Jansen Nils
Published: October 2022

Hermann Kantorowicz was a great legal scholar, who taught not only in Germany, but also in the United States, at Oxford and at Cambridge. His work bridges the intellectual divide between the common and civil laws not just because of his cosmopolitan biography, but also because of the exceptional breadth of his academic interests. In Germany, Kantorowicz has always been known best as a leading figure of the free law movement ( Freirechtsbewegung). This paper focuses instead on Kantorowicz’ idea of legal science. There are at least two reasons why Kantorowicz’ contributions to the issue are worth re-reading today. On the one hand, he discussed these questions in a manner which engages deeply with philosophical scholarship, relying primarily on concepts developed by Heinrich Rickert, Wilhelm Windelband, and Max Weber. On the other hand, Kantorowicz developed his ideas of legal science wholly independently of nineteenth century (or contemporary) programmes to re-construct the law in the form of a fully rational, internally coherent system. In this respect Kantorowicz’ ideas fit in well with modern, more fluid and complex notions of law and multi-layered legal systems.
GREEN TREND OF STRUCTURAL CHANGES AND BUSINESS INITIATIVES FOR THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF THE ECONOMY AT THE GLOBAL AND NATIONAL LEVELS
Authors:   National Transport University, Kozak Liudmyla , Fedoruk Olesia ,   National Transport University
Published: October 2022

The article examines the content and features of the green economy. The principles of sustainable development and the formation of a green economy are analyzed. The scientific foundations of ensuring sustainable development and the green trend of structural changes are substantiated. Business initiatives related to the sustainable development of the economy at the global and national levels have been studied. The basic principles of the implementation of the green economy model in Ukraine have been formed. The goal of the green growth policy is to create added value with little loss to the environment, as well as conditions for innovation and investment capable of tapping into new sources of economic growth. The tool of the green economy is the implementation of reforms aimed at introducing the most effective principles, mechanisms and models of management of socio-economic processes in the countries of the world. At the same time, the practical implementation of the model of sustainable development, which provides an integral combination of economic efficiency, social justice, resource balance and eco-safety, should become an unconditional imperative of society. Sustainable development involves the synergy of three components – economic, social and environmental. The concept of the green economy is designed to ensure a more harmonious coordination between these components, primarily due to resource and energy efficiency, as well as the participation of the business sector. The identification and active implementation of Ukraine's innovative development priorities in the green format should contribute to strengthening the image of Ukraine at the global and European levels as a country with significant scientific and educational potential, capable of creating high-tech products. The success of Ukraine's innovation policy on the global market should be determined not only by the amount of investment it receives from outside, but also from internal sources for the development of high-tech production, the dynamics of the growth of the export share, and the increase in the interest of foreign companies and highly qualified specialists to cooperate with Ukrainian enterprises.
MANAGEMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL MOBILITY IN THE ORGANIZATION OF CITY PASSENGER TRANSPORTATION
Authors:   National Transport University, Hrebelnyk Mykola , Dekhtiarenko Dmytro ,   National Transport University, Porfirenko Volodymyr ,   National Transport University
Published: October 2022

The article is devoted to the study of congestion on city roads in Ukraine, which has significantly increased. Special attention is paid to city bus transport. The development of ecological public transport is the most effective method of combating harmful emissions. Today, hybrid, hydrogen, and electric technologies in road transport are considered to be such. The object of the study is the level of congestion of city roads in Ukraine and their assessment. The purpose of the work is to model the reduction of traffic jams and the development of ecological transport in megapoles of Ukraine. Research methods – statistical methods, mathematical modeling. An analysis of the level of congestion on the roads of the largest cities of Ukraine was carried out. The analysis of the development trends of urban passenger transport was carried out. An analysis of the traffic level of Ukrainian cities was carried out. A comparative analysis of the main advantages and disadvantages of electric cars over cars running on gasoline and diesel fuel was carried out. An analysis of the ways of development and use of electric buses in large cities of the developed countries of the world was carried out. On the basis of the analyzed data on the level of traffic jams in the cities-megapolises of Ukraine, it is proposed to optimize the routes and the structure of the rolling stock during linear operation in different seasons of the year, days of the week and hours of the day using a modular type of electric buses: an electric tractor and salons - electric trailers of different lengths and capacities: small, medium and large.
Cerámicas de la Edad del Hierro de Alcácer do Sal (Portugal): los platos
Authors: Arruda Ana Margarida , Sousa Elisa
Published: October 2022

En los numerosos conjuntos cerámicos de la Edad del Hierro recogidos en Alcácer do Sal, tanto en la necrópolis del Olival do Senhor dos Mártires, como en el poblado correspondiente (Castillo) y en el santuario de la Travessa do Rato, en el área ribereña, los platos, (de engobe rojo, de cerámica gris y de cerámica común) son una presencia constante. Muchos corresponden a modelos “clásicos” y así bien conocidos en el mundo orientalizante peninsular. Otros, en cambio, tienen una morfología muy particular, que se desarrolla en el siglo V a.n.e., pudiendo considerarse una evolución local de los platos de engobe rojo de origen fenicia.
Navigating patients with atopic dermatitis or chronic spontaneous urticaria during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Haddad Isabelle , Kozman Kathia , Kibbi Abdul-Ghani
Published: October 2022

A rapid spread of different strains of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has led to an unprecedented pandemic. Since the onset of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the medical body has encountered major obstacles concerning disease management at different levels. Even though patients infected with this virus mainly present with respiratory symptoms, it has been associated with a plethora of well-documented cutaneous manifestations in the literature. However, little investigations have been conducted concerning COVID-19 and its impact on skin disorders mediated by type 2 inflammation leaving multiple dermatologists and other specialists perplexed by the lack of clinical guidelines or pathways. This review focuses on the effects of this pandemic in patients with skin disorders mediated by type 2 inflammation, specifically atopic dermatitis and chronic spontaneous urticaria. In addition, it will provide clinicians a guide on treatment and vaccination considerations for this stated set of patients.
Statistical genetics concepts in biomass-based materials engineering
Authors: Pennells Jordan , Martin Darren J.
Published: October 2022

With the rise of biomass-based materials such as nanocellulose, there is a growing need to develop statistical methods capable of leveraging inter-dependent experimental data to improve material design, product development, and process optimisation. Statistical approaches are essential given the multifaceted nature of variability in lignocellulosic biomass, which includes a range of different biomass feedstock types, a combinative arrangement of different biomass processing routes, and an array of different product formats depending on the focal application. To account for this large degree of variability and to extract meaningful patterns from research studies, there is a requirement to generate larger datasets of biomass-derived material properties through well-designed experimental systems that enable statistical analysis. To drive this trend, this article proposes the cross-disciplinary utilisation of statistical modelling approaches commonly applied within the field of statistical genetics to evaluate data generated in the field of biomass-based material research and development. The concepts of variance partitioning, heritability, hierarchical clustering, and selection gradients have been explained in their native context of statistical genetics and subsequently applied across the disciplinary boundary to evaluate relationships within a model experimental study involving the production of sorghum-derived cellulose nanofibres and their subsequent fabrication into nanopaper material. Variance partitioning and heritability calculates the relative influence of biomass vs. processing factors on material performance, while hierarchical clustering highlights the obscured similarity between experimental samples or characterisation metrics, and selection gradients elucidate the relationships between characterisation metrics and material quality. Ultimately, these statistical modelling approaches provide more depth to the investigation of biomass-processing-structure-property-performance relationships through outlining a framework for product characterisation, quality evaluation, and data visualisation, not only applicable to nanocellulose production but for all biomass-based materials and products.
Nanocellulose/two dimensional nanomaterials composites for advanced supercapacitor electrodes
Authors: Liang Qidi , Wang Yaxuan , Yang Yanfan , Xu Ting , Xu Ying , Zhao Qingshuang , Heo Su-Hak , Kim Min-Seok , Jeong Young-Hwan , Yao Shuangquan , Song Xueping , Choi Sun-Eun , Si Chuanling
Published: October 2022

With the emerging of the problems of environmental pollution and energy crisis, the development of high-efficiency energy storage technology and green renewable energy is imminent. Supercapacitors have drawn great attention in wearable electronics because of their good performance and portability. Electrodes are the key to fabricate high-performance supercapacitors with good electrochemical properties and flexibility. As a biomass based derived material, nanocellulose has potential application prospects in supercapacitor electrode materials due to its biodegradability, high mechanical strength, strong chemical reactivity, and good mechanical flexibility. In this review, the research progress of nanocellulose/two dimensional nanomaterials composites is summarized for supercapacitors in recent years. First, nanocellulose/MXene composites for supercapacitors are reviewed. Then, nanocellulose/graphene composites for supercapacitors are comprehensively elaborated. Finally, we also introduce the current challenges and development potential of nanocellulose/two dimensional nanomaterials composites in supercapacitors.
Decellularized esophageal tubular scaffold microperforated by quantum molecular resonance technology and seeded with mesenchymal stromal cells for tissue engineering esophageal regeneration
Authors: Marzaro Maurizio , Pozzato Gianantonio , Tedesco Stefano , Algeri Mattia , Pozzato Alessandro , Tomao Luigi , Montano Ilaria , Torroni Filippo , Balassone Valerio , Contini Anna Chiara Iolanda , Guerra Luciano , D’Angelo Tommaso , Federici di Abriola Giovanni , Lupoi Lorenzo , Caristo Maria Emiliana , Boškoski Ivo , Costamagna Guido , Francalanci Paola , Astori Giuseppe , Bozza Angela , Bagno Andrea , Todesco Martina , Trovalusci Emanuele , Oglio Luigi Dall’ , Locatelli Franco , Caldaro Tamara
Published: October 2022

Current surgical options for patients requiring esophageal replacement suffer from several limitations and do not assure a satisfactory quality of life. Tissue engineering techniques for the creation of customized “self-developing” esophageal substitutes, which are obtained by seeding autologous cells on artificial or natural scaffolds, allow simplifying surgical procedures and achieving good clinical outcomes. In this context, an appealing approach is based on the exploitation of decellularized tissues as biological matrices to be colonized by the appropriate cell types to regenerate the desired organs. With specific regard to the esophagus, the presence of a thick connective texture in the decellularized scaffold hampers an adequate penetration and spatial distribution of cells. In the present work, the Quantum Molecular Resonance® (QMR) technology was used to create a regular microchannel structure inside the connective tissue of full-thickness decellularized tubular porcine esophagi to facilitate a diffuse and uniform spreading of seeded mesenchymal stromal cells within the scaffold. Esophageal samples were thoroughly characterized before and after decellularization and microperforation in terms of residual DNA content, matrix composition, structure and biomechanical features. The scaffold was seeded with mesenchymal stromal cells under dynamic conditions, to assess the ability to be repopulated before its implantation in a large animal model. At the end of the procedure, they resemble the original esophagus, preserving the characteristic multilayer composition and maintaining biomechanical properties adequate for surgery. After the sacrifice we had histological and immunohistochemical evidence of the full-thickness regeneration of the esophageal wall, resembling the native organ. These results suggest the QMR microperforated decellularized esophageal scaffold as a promising device for esophagus regeneration in patients needing esophageal substitution.
A detailed methodology to model the Non Contact Tonometry: a Fluid Structure Interaction study
Authors: Redaelli Elena , Grasa Jorge , Calvo Begoña , Rodriguez Matas Jose Felix , Luraghi Giulia
Published: October 2022

Understanding the corneal mechanical properties has great importance in the study of corneal pathologies and the prediction of refractive surgery outcomes. Non-Contact Tonometry (NCT) is a non-invasive diagnostic tool intended to characterize the corneal tissue response in vivo by applying a defined air-pulse. The biomarkers inferred from this test can only be considered as indicators of the global biomechanical behaviour rather than the intrinsic biomechanical properties of the corneal tissue. A possibility to isolate the mechanical response of the corneal tissue is the use of an inverse finite element method, which is based on accurate and reliable modelling. Since a detailed methodology is still missing in the literature, this paper aims to construct a high-fidelity finite-element model of an idealized 3D eye for in silico NCT. A fluid-structure interaction (FSI) simulation is developed to virtually apply a defined air-pulse to a 3D idealized eye model comprising cornea, limbus, sclera, lens and humors. Then, a sensitivity analysis is performed to examine the influence of the intraocular pressure (IOP) and the structural material parameters on three biomarkers associated with corneal deformation. The analysis reveals the requirements for the in silico study linked to the correct reproduction of three main aspects: the air pressure over the cornea, the biomechanical properties of the tissues, and the IOP. The adoption of an FSI simulation is crucial to capture the correct air pressure profile over the cornea as a consequence of the air-jet. Regarding the parts of the eye, an anisotropic material should be used for the cornea. An important component is the sclera: the stiffer the sclera, the lower the corneal deformation due to the air-puff. Finally, the fluid-like behavior of the humors should be considered in order to account for the correct variation of the IOP during the test which will, otherwise, remain constant. The development of a strong FSI tool amenable to model coupled structures and fluids provides the basis to find the biomechanical properties of the corneal tissue in vivo.
Assessment of corneal biomechanics in anisometropia using Scheimpflug technology
Authors: Gao Rongrong , Ren Yuecheng , Li Siheng , Xu Huilin , Lin Xuanqiao , McAlinden Colm , Ye Junming , Huang Jinhai , Yu Jinjin
Published: October 2022

Purpose: To investigate the relationship between corneal biomechanical and ocular biometric parameters, and to explore biomechanical asymmetry between anisometropic eyes using the corneal visualization Scheimpflug technology device (Corvis ST).

Methods: 180 anisometropic participants were included. Participants were divided into low (1.00≤△Spherical equivalent (SE) < 2.00D), moderate (2.00D≤△SE < 3.00D) and high (△SE ≥ 3.00D) anisometropic groups. Axial length (AL), keratometry, anterior chamber depth (ACD) and corneal biomechanical parameters were assessed using the OA-2000 biometer, Pentacam HR and Corvis ST, respectively.

Results: The mean age of participants was 16.09 ± 5.64 years. Stress-Strain Index (SSI) was positively correlated with SE (r = 0.501, p < 0.001) and negatively correlated with AL (r = -0.436, p < 0.001). Some other Corvis ST parameters had weak correlation with SE or AL. Corneal biomechanical parameters except for time of first applanation (A1T), length of second applanation (A2L), deformation amplitude (DA), first applanation stiffness parameter (SPA1) and ambrosia relational thickness-horizontal (ARTh) were correlated with ametropic parameters (SE or AL) in multiple regression analyses. A1T, velocity of first applanation (A1V), time of second applanation (A2T), A2L, velocity of second applanation (A2V), corneal curvature radius at highest concavity (HCR), peak distance (PD), DA, deformation amplitude ratio max (2 mm) (DAR), SPA1, integrated radius (IR), and SSI showed significant differences between fellow eyes (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in asymmetry of corneal biomechanics among the three groups (p > 0.05). Asymmetry of some biomechanical parameters had weak correlation with asymmetry of mean corneal curvatures and ACD. However, asymmetry of corneal biomechanical parameters was not correlated with asymmetry of SE or AL (p > 0.05).

Conclusion: More myopic eyes had weaker biomechanical properties than the contralateral eye in anisometropia. However, a certain linear relationship between anisometropia and biomechanical asymmetry was not found.
Mesenchymal stem cells: A new therapeutic tool for chronic kidney disease
Authors: Wang Jiali , Lin Yongda , Chen Xiutian , Liu Yiping , Zhou Tianbiao
Published: October 2022

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has a major impact on public health, which could progress to end-stage kidney disease (ESRD) and consume many medical resources. Currently, the treatment for CKD has many flaws, so more effective treatment tools are urgently required for CKD. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are primitive cells with self-renewal and proliferation capacity and differentiation potential. Extensive preclinical and clinical data has shown that cell-based therapies using MSCs can modulate immunity, inhibit inflammatory factors, and improve renal function in CKD, suggesting that MSCs have the potential to be a new, effective therapeutic tool for CKD. In this review, we will describe different kinds of MSCs and MSCs products for the treatment of CKD in experimental models and clinical trials, potential signaling pathways, therapeutic efficacy, and critical issues that need to be addressed before therapeutic application in humans.
How cell migration helps immune sentinels
Authors: Delgado Maria–Graciela , Lennon-Duménil Ana-Maria
Published: October 2022

The immune system relies on the migratory capacity of its cellular components, which must be mobile in order to defend the host from invading micro-organisms or malignant cells. This applies in particular to immune sentinels from the myeloid lineage, i.e. macrophages and dendritic cells. Cell migration is already at work during mammalian early development, when myeloid cell precursors migrate from the yolk sac, an extra embryonic structure, to colonize tissues and form the pool of tissue-resident macrophages. Later, this is accompanied by a migration wave of precursors and monocytes from the bone marrow to secondary lymphoid organs and the peripheral tissues. They differentiate into DCs and monocyte-derived macrophages. During adult life, cell migration endows immune cells with the ability to patrol their environment as well as to circulate between peripheral tissues and lymphoid organs. Hence migration of immune cells is key to building an efficient defense system for an organism. In this review, we will describe how cell migratory capacity regulates the various stages in the life of myeloid cells from development to tissue patrolling, and migration to lymph nodes. We will focus on the role of the actin cytoskeletal machinery and its regulators, and how it contributes to the establishment and function of the immune system.
Cortical tension regulates desmosomal morphogenesis
Authors: Moch Marcin , Schieren Jana , Leube Rudolf E.
Published: October 2022

Mechanical stability is a fundamental and essential property of epithelial cell sheets. It is in large part determined by cell-cell adhesion sites that are tightly integrated by the cortical cytoskeleton. An intimate crosstalk between the adherens junction-associated contractile actomyosin system and the desmosome-anchored keratin intermediate filament system is decisive for dynamic regulation of epithelial mechanics. A major question in the field is whether and in which way mechanical stress affects junctional plasticity. This is especially true for the desmosome-keratin scaffold whose role in force-sensing is virtually unknown. To examine this question, we inactivated the actomyosin system in human keratinocytes (HaCaT) and canine kidney cells (MDCK) and monitored changes in desmosomal protein turnover.

Partial inhibition of myosin II by para-nitro-blebbistatin led to a decrease of the cells' elastic modulus and to reduced desmosomal protein turnover in regions where nascent desmosomes are formed and, to a lower degree, in regions where larger, more mature desmosomes are present. Interestingly, desmosomal proteins are affected differently: a significant decrease in turnover was observed for the desmosomal plaque protein desmoplakin I (DspI), which links keratin filaments to the desmosomal core, and the transmembrane cadherin desmoglein 2 (Dsg2). On the other hand, the turnover of another type of desmosomal cadherin, desmocollin 2 (Dsc2), was not significantly altered under the tested conditions. Similarly, the turnover of the adherens junction-associated E-cadherin was not affected by the low doses of para-nitro-blebbistatin. Inhibition of actin polymerization by low dose latrunculin B treatment and of ROCK-driven actomyosin contractility by Y-27632 treatment also induced a significant decrease in desmosomal DspI turnover. Taken together, we conclude that changes in the cortical force balance affect desmosome formation and growth. Furthermore, they differentially modulate desmosomal protein turnover resulting in changes of desmosome composition. We take the observations as evidence for a hitherto unknown desmosomal mechanosensing and mechanoresponse pathway responding to an altered force balance.
Simultaneous visualization of RNA transcripts and proteins in whole-mount mouse preimplantation embryos using single-molecule fluorescence in situ hybridization and immunofluorescence microscopy
Authors: Hazra Rasmani , Spector David L.
Published: October 2022

Whole-mount single-molecule RNA fluorescence in situ hybridization (smRNA FISH) in combination with immunofluorescence (IF) offers great potential to study long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs): their subcellular localization, their interactions with proteins, and their function. Here, we describe a step-by-step, optimized, and robust protocol that allows detection of multiple RNA transcripts and protein molecules in whole-mount preimplantation mouse embryos. Moreover, to simultaneously detect protein and enable RNA probe penetration for the combined IF/smRNA FISH technique, we performed IF before smRNA FISH. We removed the zona pellucida, used Triton X-100 to permeabilize the embryos, and did not use a proteinase digestion step so as to preserve the antigens. In addition, we modified the IF technique by using RNase-free reagents to prevent RNA degradation during the IF procedure. Using this modified sequential IF/smRNA FISH technique, we have simultaneously detected protein, lncRNA, and mRNA in whole-mount preimplantation embryos. This reliable and robust protocol will contribute to the developmental biology and RNA biology fields by providing information regarding 3D expression patterns of RNA transcripts and proteins, shedding light on their biological function.
Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of constituents isolated from Dendrobium nobile (Lindl.)
Authors: Lei Hui , Zou Shunmei , Lin Jiafu , Zhai Longfei , Zhang Yifeng , Fu Xiujuan , Chen Siwei , Niu Hong , Liu Feifei , Wu Chunlian , Zhang Dan
Published: October 2022

Dendrobium nobile (Lindl.) have long been used as herbal tea and a traditional herbal medicine to treat Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In the current study, nineteen compounds (1–19), including two new vitamin E homologues (1–2), one new sesquiterpene (6), and two new dendrobines (7, 8), were isolated and identified from stems of Dendrobium nobile. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of NMR, 13C NMR calculation, and DP4+ probability analyses. The absolute configurations of new compounds were determined by electronic circular dichroism (ECD) data analysis. Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic activities of isolated compounds were evaluated. Among them, compound 2 demonstrated significant antioxidant activity compared with ascorbic acid (VC), while compounds 2 and 4 also exhibited an equal effect to positive control cisplatin. This study on the biological activity of the new vitamin E homologues from Dendrobium nobile may indicate its potential application in the pharmaceutical and food industries.
Inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus biofilm formation by gurmarin, a plant-derived cyclic peptide
Authors: Chang Adeline W. , Dowd Scot E. , Brackee Gordon , Fralick Joe A. , Vediyappan Govindsamy
Published: October 2022

Staphylococcus aureus (Sa) is an opportunistic pathogen capable of causing various infections ranging from superficial skin infections to life-threatening severe diseases including pneumonia and sepsis. Sa produces biofilms readily on biotic and abiotic surfaces. Biofilm cells are embedded in a protective polysaccharide matrix and show an innate resistance to antibiotics, disinfectants, and clearance by host defenses. Additionally, biofilms serve as a source for systemic dissemination. Moreover, infections associated with biofilms may result in longer hospitalizations, a need for surgery, and may even result in death. Agents that inhibit the formation of biofilms and virulence without affecting bacterial growth to avoid the development of drug resistance could be useful for therapeutic purposes. In this regard, we identified and purified a small cyclic peptide, gurmarin, from a plant source that inhibited the formation of Sa biofilm under in vitro growth conditions without affecting the viability of the bacterium. The purified peptide showed a predicted molecular size of ~4.2 kDa on SDS-PAGE. Transcriptomic analysis of Sa biofilm treated with peptide showed 161 differentially affected genes at a 2-fold change, and some of them include upregulation of genes involved in oxidoreductases and downregulation of genes involved in transferases and hydrolases. To determine the inhibitory effect of the peptide against Sa biofilm formation and virulence in vivo, we used a rat-implant biofilm model. Sa infected implants with or without peptide were placed under the neck skin of rats for seven days. Implants treated with peptide showed a reduction of CFU and lack of edema and sepsis when compared to that of control animals without peptide. Taken together, gurmarin peptide blocks Sa biofilm formation in vitro and in vivo and can be further developed for therapeutic use.
Development of a high-sensitivity and short-duration fluorescence in situ hybridization method for viral mRNA detection in HEK 293T cells
Authors: Hu Dailun , Wang Tao , Uddin Jasim , Greene Wayne K. , Hu Dakang , Ma Bin
Published: October 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an extremely contagious illness caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Early disease recognition of COVID-19 is crucial not only for prompt diagnosis and treatment of the patients, but also for effective public health surveillance and response. The reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) is the most common method for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 viral mRNA and is regarded as the gold standard test for COVID-19. However, this test and those for antibodies (IgM and IgG) and antigens have certain limitations (e.g., by yielding false-negative and false-positive results). We have developed an RNA fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) method for high-sensitivity detection of SARS-CoV-2 mRNAs in HEK 293T cell cultures as a model. After transfection of HEK 293T cells with plasmids, Spike (S)/envelope (E) proteins and their mRNAs were clearly detected inside the cells. In addition, hybridization time could be reduced to 2 hours for faster detection when probe concentration was increased. Our approach might thus significantly improve the sensitivity and specificity of SARS-CoV-2 detection and be widely applied for the high-sensitivity single-molecular detection of other RNA viruses (e.g., Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), Hepatitis A virus, all influenza viruses, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)) in various types of samples including tissue, body fluid, blood, and water. RNA FISH can also be utilized for the detection of DNA viruses (e.g., Monkeypox virus, human papillomavirus (HPV), and cytomegalovirus (CMV)) by detection of their mRNAs inside cells or body fluid.
Gamifying rehabilitation: MILORD platform as an upper limb motion rehabilitation service
Authors: Fotopoulos Dimitris , Ladakis Ioannis , Kilintzis Vassilis , Chytas Achilleas , Koutsiana Elisavet , Loizidis Theodoros , Chouvarda Ioanna
Published: October 2022

Motor learning is based on the correct repetition of specific movements for their permanent storage in the central nervous system (CNS). Rehabilitation relies heavily on the repetition of specific movements, and game scenarios are ideal environments to build routines of repetitive exercises that have entertaining characteristics. In this respect, the gamification of the rehabilitation program, through the introduction of game-specific techniques and design concepts, has gained attention as a complementary or alternative to routine rehabilitation programs. A gamified rehabilitation program promises to gain the patient's attention, to reduce the monotony of the process and preserve motivation to attend, and to create virtual incentives through the game, toward maintaining compliance to the “prescribed” program. This is often achieved through goal-oriented tasks and real-time feedback in the form of points and other in-game rewards. This paper describes MILORD rehabilitation platform, an affordable technological solution, which aims to support health professionals and enable remote rehabilitation, while maintaining health service characteristics and monitoring. MILORD is an end-to-end platform that consists of an interactive computer game, utilizing a leap motion sensor, a centralized user management system, an analysis platform that processes the data generated by the game, and an analysis dashboard presenting a set of meaningful features that describe upper limb movement. Our solution facilitates the monitoring of the patients' progress and provides an alternative way to analyze hand movement. The system was tested with normal subjects and patients and experts to record user's experience, receive feedback, identify any problems, and understand the system's value in monitoring and support motion defect and progress. This small-scale study indicated the capacity of the analysis to quantify the movement in a meaningful way and express the differences between normal and pathological movement, and the user experience was positive with both patients and normal subjects.
Early identification of delayed extubation following cardiac surgery: Development and validation of a risk prediction model
Authors: Li Xia , Liu Jie , Xu Zhenzhen , Wang Yanting , Chen Lu , Bai Yunxiao , Xie Wanli , Wu Qingping
Published: October 2022

Background

Successful weaning and extubation after cardiac surgery is an important step of postoperative recovery. Delayed extubation is associated with poor prognosis and high mortality, thereby contributing to a substantial economic burden. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a prediction model estimate the risk of delayed extubation after cardiac surgery based on perioperative risk factors.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study of adult patients undergoing cardiac surgery from 2014 to 2019. Eligible participants were randomly assigned into the development and validation cohorts, with a ratio of 7:3. Variables were selected using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) logistic regression model with 10-fold cross-validation. Multivariable logistic regression was applied to develop a predictive model by introducing the predictors selected from the LASSO regression. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, calibration plot, decision curve analysis (DCA) and clinical impact curve were used to evaluate the performance of the predictive risk score model.

Results

Among the 3,919 adults included in our study, 533 patients (13.6%) experienced delayed extubation. The median ventilation time was 68 h in the group with delayed extubation and 21 h in the group without delayed extubation. A predictive scoring system was derived based on 10 identified risk factors based on 10 identified risk factors including age, BMI ≥ 28 kg/m2, EF < 50%, history of cardiac surgery, type of operation, emergency surgery, CPB ≥ 120 min, duration of surgery, IABP and eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2. According to the scoring system, the patients were classified into three risk intervals: low, medium and high risk. The model performed well in the validation set with AUC of 0.782 and a non-significant p-value of 0.901 in the Hosmer-Lemeshow test. The DCA curve and clinical impact curve showed a good clinical utility of this model.

Conclusions

We developed and validated a prediction score model to predict the risk of delayed extubation after cardiac surgery, which may help identify high-risk patients to target with potential preventive measures.
Predictive value of 10-year atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk equations from the China-PAR for new-onset lower extremity peripheral artery disease
Authors: He Pengkang , Fan Fangfang , Chen Chuyun , Liu Bo , Jia Jia , Sun Pengfei , Li Jianping , Zhou Jing , Zhang Yan
Published: October 2022

Lower extremity peripheral artery disease (LEPAD) is a common and serious health-threatening disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate the predictive value of 10-year atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk equations from the Prediction for ASCVD Risk in China (China-PAR) project for incident LEPAD after 6.75 ± 0.13 years of follow-up. A total of 3,595 Chinese participants without baseline ASCVD or LEPAD from a community-based cohort were enrolled in our study. The mean (interquartile range) baseline 10-year China-PAR ASCVD risk was 4.35% (2.24–8.44%), and the incidence of new-onset LEPAD during 6.75 ± 0.13 years was 4.23%. In univariable logistic regression analysis, 10-year China-PAR ASCVD risk was significantly associated with LEPAD incidence (odds ratio [OR] for each 1% increase in the risk score = 1.06, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.03–1.08, P < 0.001). After adjusting confounders, the relationship remained significant (OR: 1.09, 95% CI: 1.05–1.1. P < 0.001). Participants with the highest risk (≥10%) had significantly increased risk compared to those with the lowest risk (<5%) (OR = 2.65, 95% CI: 1.15–6.07, P = 0.022). Further interaction analyses showed no evidence of heterogeneity according to sex, age, body mass index (BMI), smoking, drinking, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, renal function, waist circumference, and family history. In conclusion, 10-year China-PAR ASCVD risk independently predicted the risk of new-onset LEPAD in a Chinese community-based population, indicating the importance of polyvascular diseases (PVDs) and the intrinsic interactions of its components.
Left atrial strain and clinical outcome in patients with significant mitral regurgitation after surgical mitral valve repair
Authors: Kim Se-Eun , Kim Dae-Young , Seo Jiwon , Cho Iksung , Hong Geu-Ru , Ha Jong-Won , Shim Chi Young
Published: October 2022

Background

This study aimed to investigate the prognostic value of left atrial (LA) strain in patients with significant mitral regurgitation (MR) after surgical mitral valve (MV) repair.

Methods

A total of 169 patients (age 55 ± 15 years, 88 men) with moderate or severe MR on echocardiogram at least 6 months after surgical MV repair for primary MR were studied. Two-dimensional, Doppler, and speckle tracking echocardiography including MR quantitative measures, chamber size, and LA strain were comprehensively analyzed. The primary outcome was a composite of cardiovascular death, heart failure hospitalization, and MV reoperation.

Results

During a median of 44.4 months [interquartile range (IQR): 18.7–70.3 months] of follow-up, 44 patients (26%) experienced clinical events; these patients had greater MR volume, elevated mean diastolic pressure gradient and pulmonary artery systolic pressure, and enlarged chamber size compared with patients who did not experience events. Patients with events showed significantly lower LA strain [13.3% (IQR: 9.3–23.8%) vs. 24.0% (IQR: 13.1–31.4%), p = 0.003] and higher MR volume/LA strain [3.09 ml/% (IQR: 2.06–5.80 ml/%) vs. 1.57 ml/% (IQR: 1.04–2.72 ml/%), p < 0.001] than those without events. MR volume/LA strain was a good predictor of clinical outcomes (cut-off 1.57 ml/%, area under the curve 0.754, p < 0.001). On multivariable Cox proportional analysis, MR volume/LA strain was independently associated with clinical outcomes (hazard ratio: 1.269, 95% confidence interval: 1.109–1.452, p < 0.001) along with pulmonary artery systolic pressure.

Conclusion

A measure of LA mechanical function relative to MR volume is associated with clinical outcomes in patients with significant MR after surgical MV repair.
Association of the Composite dietary antioxidant index with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Wang Lei , Yi Zhong
Published: October 2022

Background

According to epidemiological and experimental data, high individual dietary antioxidant intake is correlated with reduced cancer risk. The correlations between combined dietary antioxidants and the risk of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality remain unclear. Consequently, this study focused on evaluating the correlation between the food-derived Composite Dietary Antioxidant Index (CDAI) and all-cause and cardiovascular mortality.

Materials and methods

Two years of data collected from participants aged ≥20 years were included in this prospective cohort study, which was obtained from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 1999 to 2018. The US NHANES adopted a complicated, multistage probability sampling method to collect health data representing the US population. Data collection was done through in-person interviews, virtual physical examinations, and laboratory tests. Mortality-related follow-up statistics from the start of the survey to 31 December 2019 were available. The shape of the correlation between CDAI and all-cause and cardiovascular mortality was inspected using a restricted cubic spline model. For CDAI and all-cause and cardiovascular mortality, the univariate- and multivariate-adjusted Cox proportional hazard models were estimated and presented as regression coefficients and 95% confidence intervals.

Results

In total, 44,031 NHANES participants represented 339.4 million non-institutionalized residents of the US (age, 47.2 ± 16.9 years; 52.5% women, 70.2% non-Hispanic whites, 10.8% non-Hispanic black people, and 7.5% Mexican Americans). In the 118-month follow-up, 9,249 deaths were reported, including 2,406 deaths resulting from heart disease and 519 deaths due to cerebrovascular disease. In the restricted cubic spline regression models, a linear relationship between CDAI and all-cause mortality was present. The weighted multivariate hazard ratios for all-cause mortality were computed to be 0.97 (0.87–1.07) for Q2, 0.88 (0.81–0.96) for Q3, and 0.90 (0.80–1.00) for Q4 (P for trend = 0.009) upon comparison with the lowest quartile of CDAI, and an identical trend was observed for cardiovascular mortality.

Conclusion

A high CDAI was linked to decreased all-cause and cardiovascular mortality risk. The intake of an antioxidant-rich diet significantly prevents cardiovascular mortality. To shed more light on these outcomes, more itemized investigations such as randomized control trials are required.