bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protocol Comparison for Organic Residue Analyses from Waterproofing Materials and Shards of Roman Archaeological Amphorae
Authors: Chassouant Louise , Olmer Fabienne , Delpino Chiara , Celant Alessandra , Vieillescazes Cathy , Magri Donatella , Mathe Carole
Published: October 2021

With the aim of addressing the impact of extractive protocols in molecular characterization of ceramic content, sixteen archaeological shards and waterproofing coatings of Roman amphorae were studied to compare the extractive capacities of protocols prevalently mentioned in wine amphorae analysis. A microwave-assisted protocol is developed in order to esterify grape-derivative markers from archaeological pitch and shard. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry is used to highlight the great capacities of a two-step protocol that combines organic extraction with BF3-etherate complex butylation applied on archaeological shards. Instead, simultaneous alkaline fusion and direct-resin acid-catalyzed butylation are favored for the characterization of waterproofing material. The identification of tartaric acid, together with succinic, fumaric pyruvic and syringic acids provide valuable insights on the archaeological grape-derivative content, possibly wine. Diterpenic markers highlighted Pinus pitch and wood tar, originally used to waterproof the amphorae. Since markers are reliable tools in organic residue analyses, protocols exhibiting high extractive capacities are favored to avoid false conclusions drawn through the absence of markers.
Improving the Strength and Leaching Characteristics of Pb-Contaminated Silt through MICP
Authors: Zha Fusheng , Wang Hao , Kang Bo , Liu Congmin , Xu Long , Tan Xiaohui
Published: October 2021

Microbial-induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) is an effective technology for repairing sites contaminated by heavy metals. In this work, Sporosarcina pasteurii was cultured and mixed with a cementing fluid as a binder to remediate Pb-contaminated silt. The effects of varying experimental parameters, including Pb concentration and dry density, were also tested and analyzed. The leaching and strength characteristics and the MICP improvement mechanism of the Pb-contaminated silt were studied. Samples with dry densities of 1.50 g/cm3 and 1.55 g/cm3 exhibited the highest unconfined compression strengths (UCS). Scanning electron microscopy showed that not all CaCO3 crystals produced a cementation effect, with some filling pores in an invalid cementation form. The results showed that MICP remediation of low Pb2+ concentration-contaminated silt could meet the relevant Chinese environmental safety standards. Low Pb concentrations helped improve MICP-treated, Pb-contaminated silt strength, whereas high Pb concentrations significantly reduced this strength. Testing to determine the tolerance of an active microbe, Sporosarcina pasteurii, showed that trace amounts of Pb promoted its growth, thus improving the MICP effect, whereas excessive Pb had a toxic effect, which reduced MICP effectiveness. Mercury injection experiments showed that MICP produced CaCO3; this mainly filled soil mesopores and macropores and, thus, improved the soil UCS. Scanning electron microscopy showed that not all CaCO3 crystals produced a cementation effect, with some filling pores in an invalid cementation form. MICP was innovatively applied to silt sites with heavy metal pollutants while considering the soil compaction in actual construction, thus broadening the application scope of MICP, optimizing the construction process, and reducing the construction cost.
Contrasting Patterns of Sensory Adaptation in Living and Extinct Flightless Birds
Authors: Johnston Peter , Mitchell Kieren J.
Published: October 2021

Avian cranial anatomy is constrained by the competing (or complementary) requirements and costs of various facial, muscular, sensory, and central neural structures. However, these constraints may operate differently in flighted versus flightless birds. We investigated cranial sense organ morphology in four lineages of flightless birds: kiwi (Apteryx), the Kakapo (Strigops habroptilus), and the extinct moa (Dinornithiformes) from New Zealand; and the extinct elephant birds from Madagascar (Aepyornithidae). Scleral ring and eye measurements suggest that the Upland Moa (Megalapteryx didinus) was diurnal, while measurements for the Kakapo are consistent with nocturnality. Kiwi are olfactory specialists, though here we postulate that retronasal olfaction is the dominant olfactory route in this lineage. We suggest that the Upland Moa and aepyornithids were also olfactory specialists; the former additionally displaying prominent bill tip sensory organs implicated in mechanoreception. Finally, the relative size of the endosseous cochlear duct revealed that the Upland Moa had a well-developed hearing sensitivity range, while the sensitivity of the kiwi, Kakapo, and aepyornithids was diminished. Together, our results reveal contrasting sensory strategies among extant and extinct flightless birds. More detailed characterisation of sensory capacities and cranial anatomy in extant birds may refine our ability to make accurate inferences about the sensory capacities of fossil taxa.
Skin Mycetoma in an 11-Year-Old African Boy: Case Presentation with Emphasis on Histopathological Features and Differential Diagnosis
Authors: Cazzato Gerardo , Colagrande Anna , Cimmino Antonietta , Lospalluti Lucia , Demarco Aurora , Foti Caterina , Romita Paolo , Arezzo Francesca , Loizzi Vera , Parente Paola , Resta Leonardo , Ingravallo Giuseppe
Published: October 2021

Mycetoma is an uncommon, chronic infective disease of the skin and subcutaneous tissues, characterized by the triad of tumefaction, draining sinuses, and the presence in the exudate of colonial grains. In cases of long-term disease, the presence of colonial grains together with the host’s derivative material can lead to the formation of real sinuses. Histological analysis is of fundamental importance to allow an accurate etiological diagnosis and to understand if the basic pathogen is an actinomycete (bacterium) or a real fungus (eumycetic mycetomas) and is also fundamental for therapy, which is quite different. Here, we present a case of Mycetoma in an 11-year-old patient who emigrated from Djibouti, Somalia, and showed the essential histopathological features of this rare and forgotten nosographic entity in the industrialized world and briefly discuss the major and most important differential diagnoses.
From Immune Dysregulations to Therapeutic Perspectives in Myelodysplastic Syndromes: A Review
Authors: Comont Thibault , Treiner Emmanuel , Vergez François
Published: October 2021

The pathophysiology of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDSs) is complex and often includes immune dysregulation of both the innate and adaptive immune systems. Whereas clonal selection mainly involves smoldering inflammation, a cellular immunity dysfunction leads to increased apoptosis and blast proliferation. Addressing immune dysregulations in MDS is a recent concept that has allowed the identification of new therapeutic targets. Several approaches targeting the different actors of the immune system have therefore been developed. However, the results are very heterogeneous, indicating the need to improve our understanding of the disease and interactions between chronic inflammation, adaptive dysfunction, and somatic mutations. This review highlights current knowledge of the role of immune dysregulation in MDS pathophysiology and the field of new drugs.
Dual-Energy Lung Perfusion in Portal Venous Phase CT—A Comparison with the Pulmonary Arterial Phase
Authors: Praël Isabelle , Wuest Wolfgang , Heiss Rafael , Wiesmueller Marco , Kopp Markus , Uder Michael , May Matthias S.
Published: October 2021

Pulmonary arterial dual-energy (aDE) CT is an established technique for evaluating pulmonary perfusion blood volume (PBV). As DECT protocols are increasingly used for thoraco-abdominal CT, this study assessed image quality and clinical findings in portal–venous phase dual-energy (vDE) CT and compared it to aDE. In 95 patients, vDE-CT was performed using a dual-source scanner (70/Sn150 kV, 560/140 ref.mAs). Pulmonary triggered aDE-CT served as reference (n = 94). PBV was reconstructed using a dedicated algorithm. Mean relative attenuation was measured in the pulmonary trunk, aorta, and segmented lung parenchyma. A distribution ratio (DL) between vessels and parenchyma was calculated to assess the iodine uptake of the lung parenchyma. Subjective overall diagnostic image quality was assessed for PBV images on a five-point Likert scale. Image artifacts were classified into five groups based on scale rating and compared between vDE and aDE. Pathological findings were correlated with the anatomical image datasets. Mean relative attenuation of the lung parenchyma was comparable in both groups (vDE: 23 ± 6 HU and aDE: 22 ± 7 HU), but significantly lower in the vessels of vDE. Therefore, iodine uptake of the lung parenchyma was significantly higher in vDE (DL: 10% vs. 8%, p < 0.01). The subjective overall image quality of the PBV images was comparable (p = 0.5). Rotation and streak artifacts were found in most of the patients (>86%, both p > 0.6). Dual-source artifacts were found in only a few patients in both groups (vDE 5%, aDE 7%, p = 0.5). Recess and subpleural artifacts were increased in vDE (vDE 53/27%, aDE 24/7%, both p < 0.001). Pathological findings were found in 19% of the vDE patients and 59% of the aDE patients. Comparable objective and subjective image quality of lung perfusion can be obtained in vDE and aDE. Iodine uptake of the lung parenchyma is increased in vDE compared to aDE, suggesting an interstitial pooling effect. Knowledge of the different appearances of artifacts will aid in the interpretation of the images. Additional clinical information about the lung parenchyma can be provided by PBV evaluation in vDE.
Ensemble Machine Learning Model to Predict SARS-CoV-2 T-Cell Epitopes as Potential Vaccine Targets
Authors: Bukhari Syed Nisar Hussain , Jain Amit , Haq Ehtishamul , Mehbodniya Abolfazl , Webber Julian
Published: October 2021

An ongoing outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by a single-stranded RNA virus called severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has caused a worldwide pandemic that continues to date. Vaccination has proven to be the most effective technique, by far, for the treatment of COVID-19 and to combat the outbreak. Among all vaccine types, epitope-based peptide vaccines have received less attention and hold a large untapped potential for boosting vaccine safety and immunogenicity. Peptides used in such vaccine technology are chemically synthesized based on the amino acid sequences of antigenic proteins (T-cell epitopes) of the target pathogen. Using wet-lab experiments to identify antigenic proteins is very difficult, expensive, and time-consuming. We hereby propose an ensemble machine learning (ML) model for the prediction of T-cell epitopes (also known as immune relevant determinants or antigenic determinants) against SARS-CoV-2, utilizing physicochemical properties of amino acids. To train the model, we retrieved the experimentally determined SARS-CoV-2 T-cell epitopes from Immune Epitope Database and Analysis Resource (IEDB) repository. The model so developed achieved accuracy, AUC (Area under the ROC curve), Gini, specificity, sensitivity, F-score, and precision of 98.20%, 0.991, 0.994, 0.971, 0.982, 0.990, and 0.981, respectively, using a test set consisting of SARS-CoV-2 peptides (T-cell epitopes and non-epitopes) obtained from IEDB. The average accuracy of 97.98% was recorded in repeated 5-fold cross validation. Its comparison with 05 robust machine learning classifiers and existing T-cell epitope prediction techniques, such as NetMHC and CTLpred, suggest the proposed work as a better model. The predicted epitopes from the current model could possess a high probability to act as potential peptide vaccine candidates subjected to in vitro and in vivo scientific assessments. The model developed would help scientific community working in vaccine development save time to screen the active T-cell epitope candidates of SARS-CoV-2 against the inactive ones.
A Tolman-like Compact Model with Conformal Geometry
Authors: Kileba Matondo Didier , Maharaj Sunil D.
Published: October 2021

In this investigation, we study a model of a charged anisotropic compact star by assuming a relationship between the metric functions arising from a conformal symmetry. This mechanism leads to a first-order differential equation containing pressure anisotropy and the electric field. Particular forms of the electric field intensity, combined with the Tolman VII metric, are used to solve the Einstein–Maxwell field equations. New classes of exact solutions generated are expressed in terms of elementary functions. For specific parameter values based on the physical requirements, it is shown that the model satisfies the causality, stability and energy conditions. Numerical values generated for masses, radii, central densities, surface redshifts and compactness factors are consistent with compact objects such as PSR J1614-2230 and SMC X-1.
“We Really Have to Come Together”: Understanding the Role of Solidarity in Asian American College Students’ Social Justice Activism and Advocacy
Authors: Museus Samuel D. , Espiritu Gabriel Lê , Ng Caitlin
Published: October 2021

Structural oppression continues to be one of the most pressing problems in U.S. society, and college students have always played a major role in addressing systemic inequities. Yet, much remains to be learned about the experiences of students advocating social justice in higher education, and there is a paucity of research on Asian American students involved in such efforts. This study sought to understand how Asian American undergraduates understand the role of solidarity in social justice work. The authors analyzed interviews with Asian American students engaged in social justice activism and advocacy in the Midwest. Findings show that participants recognized interconnected realities among oppressed communities, centered solidarity in social justice work because of this recognition, and utilized intersectional approaches to integrate solidarity into social justice activism and advocacy. Implications for future research and practice are discussed.
Social Welfare Maximization of Competitive Congested Power Market Considering Wind Farm and Pumped Hydroelectric Storage System
Authors: Dawn Subhojit , Gope Sadhan , Das Shreya Shree , Ustun Taha Selim
Published: October 2021

The utilization of wind energy sources with energy storage systems has been increased in the power sector to satisfy the consumer’s energy demand with minimum price. This paper presents the impact of a wind farm (WF) and pumped hydroelectric storage (PHS) system in the competitive electricity market under a congested transmission system. The PHS system is used to compensate for the deviation of WF generation in the real-time electricity market. To investigate the impact of the proposed method, initially, the market-clearing power problem is solved without consideration of WF and PHS systems, and again it is solved with the WF and PHS systems. The optimal location of the WF and PHS systems is decided by the bus sensitivity factor (BSF) of these systems. The analysis is carried out by using generator sensitivity factor (GSF) with the help of the moth flame optimization (MFO) algorithm and thereby calculating market clearing price (MCP) and market clearing volume (MCV). The MFO algorithm is used here for the first time for solving the congested market-clearing power problem with the integration of WF and PHS systems under deregulated environment. The presented approach shows the improvement of social welfare after the placement of WF and PHS in the congested deregulated system. Modified IEEE 30 bus system is used to solve the market-clearing power problem and results obtained from the MFO algorithm are compared with the firefly algorithm (FA). Three different real-time wind speed data have been considered here to verify the proposed approach with uncertainty and the continuously changing nature of wind flow. It is discovered that social welfare is improved with the quantity addition of wind power, regardless of optimization techniques.
Integration Strategy and Tool between Formal Ontology and Graph Database Technology
Authors: Ferilli Stefano
Published: October 2021

Ontologies, and especially formal ones, have traditionally been investigated as a means to formalize an application domain so as to carry out automated reasoning on it. The union of the terminological part of an ontology and the corresponding assertional part is known as a Knowledge Graph. On the other hand, database technology has often focused on the optimal organization of data so as to boost efficiency in their storage, management and retrieval. Graph databases are a recent technology specifically focusing on element-driven data browsing rather than on batch processing. While the complementarity and connections between these technologies are patent and intuitive, little exists to bring them to full integration and cooperation. This paper aims at bridging this gap, by proposing an intermediate format that can be easily mapped onto the formal ontology on one hand, so as to allow complex reasoning, and onto the graph database on the other, so as to benefit from efficient data handling.
Understanding the Performance Characteristics of Computational Storage Drives: A Case Study with SmartSSD
Authors: Kim Hwajung , Yeom Heon Y. , Sung Hanul
Published: October 2021

The emerging computational storage drives (CSDs) provide new opportunities by moving data computation closer to the storage. Performing computation within storage drives enables data pre/post-processing without expensive data transfers. Moreover, large amounts of data can be processed in parallel thanks to the nature of the field-programmable gate array (FPGA) included in CSDs. In a CSD, there are several implementation techniques that support parallel processing, each of which provides a different degree of parallelism. However, without sufficient understanding of the parallel processing techniques of CSD, it can lead to overhead due to misuse rather than benefiting from task offloading. Thus, to exploit the best performance of CSDs, it is important to properly adjust the degree of parallelism of each implementation technique. In this paper, we focus on the study of the differences in CSD performance according to various combinations of parallel processing techniques. To investigate the performance differences, we implement and offload the data verification algorithm to the CSD and analyze the performance and resource utilization. The experimental results show that implementing the data verification algorithm with a sufficient understanding of CSD’s parallel processing techniques can improve the performance by up to 20 times. Moreover, even with the same degree of parallelism, the performance can differ by 59% depending on the combination of implementation techniques. These results imply that proper orchestration of different implementation techniques leads to better performance and efficient resource utilization.
Optimization of UAV-Aided Millimeter-Wave IoT Systems
Authors: Zuo Xingxuan , Shen Lingfeng , Han Gangtao , Mu Xiaomin
Published: October 2021

Due to their maneuverability, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have grown into a promising enabler of the Internet of Things (IoTs). In addition to the benefits of the bandwidth and communication quality of millimeter-wave (mmWave) systems, a UAV-aided mmWave multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO) communication system is investigated in this paper for the data collection of IoT systems, in which single-antenna IoT devices are divided into several clusters, and the UAV aided mmWave base station (UAV-BS) collects data from each cluster using the time division scheme. The joint optimization of the beam selection, UAV trajectory, user clustering, power allocation and transmission duration is studied in this paper to improve the data collection efficiency. The solution of the problem is then given in three steps. Firstly, the incremental K-means clustering and ant colony optimization algorithm are utilized to handle the UAV trajectory planning and user clustering problem. Secondly, an incremental beam selection scheme is employed to ensure that all the devices in each cluster can communicate with the UAV. Thirdly, an iterative algorithm is proposed by alternately optimizing the power allocation and transmission duration of the IoT devices. Finally, the simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed solution for the UAV-aided mmWave communication system.
Fault Diagnosis of Electric Motors Using Deep Learning Algorithms and Its Application: A Review
Authors: Yang Yuanyuan , Haque Md Muhie Menul , Bai Dongling , Tang Wei
Published: October 2021

Electric motors are used extensively in numerous industries, and their failure can result not only in machine damage but also a slew of other issues, such as financial loss, injuries, etc. As a result, there is a significant scope to use robust fault diagnosis technology. In recent years, interesting research results on fault diagnosis for electric motors have been documented. Deep learning in the fault detection of electric equipment has shown comparatively better results than traditional approaches because of its more powerful and sophisticated feature extraction capabilities. This paper covers four traditional types of deep learning models: deep belief networks (DBN), autoencoders (AE), convolutional neural networks (CNN), and recurrent neural networks (RNN), and highlights their use in detecting faults of electric motors. Finally, the issues and obstacles that deep learning encounters in the fault detection mechanism as well as the prospects are discussed and summarized.
Optimum Multi-Mini-Channels Height for Heat Enhancement under Forced Convection Condition
Authors: Saghir M. Z. , Alhajaj Z.
Published: October 2021

Heat enhancement and heat removal remain important topics in engineering. Furthermore, flow in a laminar regime can reduce the cost of cooling. In the present study, flow in mini channels in a rectangular cavity is investigated with water as a circulating fluid. The height of the channel in the cavity is varied and interaction of the free flow above the channel with flow through the channel has been investigated. It is shown that a combination of these two flows can provide the optimum heat removal at a Reynolds number of 750. This finding is valid if one ignores the friction effect to the wall. The best configuration is for an aspect ratio AR = 6. If the pressure drop is taken into consideration, then the performance evaluation criterion shows that the mini-channel with aspect ratio AR = 12 is the best configuration. Different correlations have been obtained between the Nusselt number, pressure drop, friction factor, performance evaluation criterion, and the Reynolds number and the height of the channels.
Endocrinological and Nutritional Implications of Anorexia of Aging
Authors: Molfino Alessio , Imbimbo Giovanni , Muscaritoli Maurizio
Published: October 2021

Poor appetite—known as anorexia—is a common condition in aging and is associated with poor outcomes, including reduced survival and impaired quality of life. The anorexia of aging is mainly the result of several complex endocrinological, metabolic, and nutritional changes occurring with later age. The modulation of different peptides and hormones has been identified as an important determinant for the development of low appetite; in particular, an altered imbalance of plasma ghrelin, leptin, and cholecystokinin and increased inflammatory markers are implicated in its pathophysiology, and robust evidence of their involvement in anorexia of aging has been produced in the clinical setting. More recently, researchers identified that the gut microbiome composition significantly varies according to the appetite status. Other important clinical factors may worsen the symptoms of the anorexia in the elderly, in particular the potential concomitant presence of chronic catabolic comorbidities. Importantly, data indicate that anorexia is prevalent in frail older adults, negatively impacting body composition and specifically in altering muscle mass and function. For all these reasons, a prompt and early diagnosis of anorexia in the elderly is crucial to implement personalized metabolic and nutrition interventions to improve the outcomes and ameliorate quality of life.
Conducting Importance–Performance Analysis for Human–Elephant Conflict Management Surrounding a National Park in Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Van Viet , Phan Thi Thanh Thuy , Ferdin Arockia E J , Lee Chun-Hung
Published: October 2021

In this paper, we present a conceptual framework of human–elephant conflict (HEC) management embodying community aspects gleaned from the importance–performance analysis (IPA) for a National Park in Vietnam. Nine approaches were proposed to prevent and mitigate HEC (HEC indicators), of which six fell into different quadrants based on the respective estimations of farmer and non-farmer respondents. Both the levels of importance and performance (I-P) of the HEC indicators are evaluated between (I-P) among farmers and non-farmers. Locals perceived the importance of all HEC indicators highly, but they thought its performance is poor. Third, we confirm the factors affecting the locals’ participation behavior towards HEC management based on their demographics, awareness, and behavior in terms of HEC, and their perceptions of HEC. Compared to the non-farmer residents, the farmers recognized that the management strategy of HEC must focus on the aspects of building an insurance scheme and implementing appropriate land use planning. The characteristics that affect the differentiation of the locals’ participation of HEC management are: (1) higher income residents, (2) farmers, (3) residents who would like to participate in an insurance scheme, and (4) the HEC management factors. Theoretical insights and management implications are also addressed in this study.
Cattle and Pigs Are Easy to Move and Handle Will Have Less Preslaughter Stress
Authors: Grandin Temple
Published: October 2021

Previous research has clearly shown that short-term stresses during the last few minutes before stunning can result in Pale Soft Exudative (PSE) pork in pigs or increased toughness in beef. Electric prods and other aversive handling methods during the last five minutes are associated with poorer meat quality. Handlers are more likely to use aversive methods if livestock constantly stop and are difficult to move into the stun box. Factors both inside and outside the slaughter plant contribute to handling problems. Some in-plant factors are lighting, shadows, seeing motion up ahead, or air movement. Non-slip flooring is also very important for low-stress handling. During the last ten years, there have been increasing problems with on-farm factors that may make animals more difficult to move at the abattoir. Cattle or pigs that are lame or stiff will be more difficult to move and handle. Some of the factors associated with lame cattle are either poor design or lack of adequate bedding in dairy cubicles (free stalls) and housing beef cattle for long periods on concrete floors. Poor leg conformation in both cattle and pigs may also be associated with animals that are reluctant to move. Indiscriminate breeding selection for meat production traits may be related to some of the leg conformation problems. Other on-farm factors that may contribute to handling problems at the abattoir are high doses of beta-agonists or cattle and pigs that have had little contact with people.
New Trends in Photodynamic Inactivation (PDI) Combating Biofilms in the Food Industry—A Review
Authors: Wang Dan , Kyere Emmanuel , Ahmed Sadiq Faizan
Published: October 2021

Biofilms cause problems in the food industry due to their persistence and incompetent hygiene processing technologies. Interest in photodynamic inactivation (PDI) for combating biofilms has increased in recent years. This technique can induce microbial cell death, reduce cell attachment, ruin biofilm biomolecules and eradicate structured biofilms without inducing microbial resistance. This review addresses microbial challenges posed by biofilms in food environments and highlights the advantages of PDI in preventing and eradicating microbial biofilm communities. Current findings of the antibiofilm efficiencies of this technique are summarized. Additionally, emphasis is given to its potential mechanisms and factors capable of influencing biofilm communities, as well as promising hurdle strategies.
Reinforcement of Alginate-Gelatin Hydrogels with Bioceramics for Biomedical Applications: A Comparative Study
Authors: Avila-Ramirez Alan , Catzim-Ríos Kevin , Guerrero-Beltrán Carlos Enrique , Ramírez-Cedillo Erick , Ortega-Lara Wendy
Published: October 2021

This study states the preparation of novel ink with potential use for bone and cartilage tissue restoration. 3Dprint manufacturing allows customizing prostheses and complex morphologies of any traumatism. The quest for bioinks that increase the restoration rate based on printable polymers is a need. This study is focused on main steps, the synthesis of two bioceramic materials as WO3 and Na2Ti6O13, its integration into a biopolymeric-base matrix of Alginate and Gelatin to support the particles in a complete scaffold to trigger the potential nucleation of crystals of calcium phosphates, and its comparative study with independent systems of formulations with bioceramic particles as Al2O3, TiO2, and ZrO2. FT-IR and SEM studies result in hydroxyapatite’s potential nucleation, which can generate bone or cartilage tissue regeneration systems with low or null cytotoxicity. These composites were tested by cell culture techniques to assess their biocompatibility. Moreover, the reinforcement was compared individually by mechanical tests with higher results on synthesized materials Na2Ti6O13 with 35 kPa and WO3 with 63 kPa. Finally, the integration of these composite materials formulated by Alginate/Gelatin and bioceramic has been characterized as functional for further manufacturing with the aid of novel biofabrication techniques such as 3D printing.
Effects of Dual-Task Training on Gait Parameters in Elderly Patients with Mild Dementia
Authors: Koo Dong-Kyun , Jang Tae-Su , Kwon Jung-Won
Published: October 2021

This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of dual-task training (DTT) compared to single-task training (STT), on gait parameters in elderly patients with mild dementia (MD). Twenty-four elderly patients with MD were randomly assigned to the DTT (n = 13) or the STT group (n = 11). The DTT group performed a specific cognitive-motor DTT, while the STT group received only motor task training. Both training sessions lasted 8 weeks, with a frequency of 3 days per week, and the cognitive functions and gait parameters were measured. A statistically significant interaction effect was found between the two groups in stride length, stride velocity, cadence, step length, swing phase, stance phase, and double support phase (p < 0.05). After 8 weeks, the DTT group showed significant improvement in spatiotemporal parameters, except for the kinematic parameters (p < 0.05). In the between-group analysis, the DTT group showed more improvement than the STT group in stride velocity, step length, swing phase, stance phase, and double support (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that improvements in spatiotemporal gait parameters after DTT are reported in patients with MD. Our results can guide therapists to include dual tasks in their gait rehabilitation programs for the treatment of mild dementia.
Interactive Maps for the Production of Knowledge and the Promotion of Participation from the Perspective of Communication, Journalism, and Digital Humanities
Authors: Molina Rodríguez-Navas Pedro , Muñoz Lalinde Johamna , Medranda Morales Narcisa
Published: October 2021

New technologies have allowed traditional map production criteria to be modified or even subverted. Starting from the communication sciences—journalism in particular—and digital humanities via the history of communication, we show how to use interactive digital maps for the production and publication of knowledge through and/or for participation. Firstly, we establish the theoretical-conceptual framework necessary to base the practices, dividing the elements into three areas: interactive maps and knowledge production (decentralization, pluralization, reticularization, and humanization), maps as instruments to promote political and social participation (egalitarianism, horizontality, and criticism), and maps as instruments for the visualization of data that favors the user experience (interactivity, multimediality, reticularity of reading, and participation). Next, we present two cases that we developed to put into practice the theoretical concepts that we established: the Mapa Infoparticipa (Infoparticipa Map), which shows the results of the evaluation of the transparency of public administrations, and the Ciutadania Plural (Plural Citizenship) web platform for the production of social knowledge about the past and the present. This theoretical and practical model shows the possibilities of interactive maps as tools to promote political participation and as instruments for the construction of social knowledge in a collaborative, participatory, networked way.
In a Prediabetic Model, Empagliflozin Improves Hepatic Lipid Metabolism Independently of Obesity and before Onset of Hyperglycemia
Authors: Hüttl Martina , Markova Irena , Miklankova Denisa , Zapletalova Iveta , Poruba Martin , Haluzik Martin , Vaněčkova Ivana , Malinska Hana
Published: October 2021

Recent studies suggest that treatment with SGLT-2 inhibitors can reduce hepatic lipid storage and ameliorate non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) development beyond their glycemic benefits. However, the exact mechanism involved is still unclear. We investigated the hepatic metabolic effect of empagliflozin (10 mg/kg/day for eight weeks) on the development of NAFLD and its complications using HHTg rats as a non-obese prediabetic rat model. Empagliflozin treatment reduced neutral triacylglycerols and lipotoxic diacylglycerols in the liver and was accompanied by significant changes in relative mRNA expression of lipogenic enzymes (Scd-1, Fas) and transcription factors (Srebp1, Pparγ). In addition, alterations in the gene expression of cytochrome P450 proteins, particularly Cyp2e1 and Cyp4a, together with increased Nrf2, contributed to the improvement of hepatic lipid metabolism after empagliflozin administration. Decreased circulating levels of fetuin-A improved lipid metabolism and attenuated insulin resistance in the liver and in peripheral tissues. Our results highlight the beneficial effect of empagliflozin on hepatic lipid metabolism and lipid accumulation independent of obesity, with the mechanisms understood to involve decreased lipogenesis, alterations in cytochrome P450 proteins, and decreased fetuin-A. These changes help to alleviate NAFLD symptoms in the early phase of the disease and before the onset of diabetes.
Insight into Details of the Photosynthetic Light Reactions and Selected Metabolic Changes in Tomato Seedlings Growing under Various Light Spectra
Authors: Kula-Maximenko Monika , Niewiadomska Ewa , Maksymowicz Anna , Ostrowska Agnieszka , Oklestkova Jana , Pěnčík Aleš , Janeczko Anna
Published: October 2021

The objective of our study was to characterise the growth of tomato seedlings under various light spectra, but special attention has been paid to gaining a deeper insight into the details of photosynthetic light reactions. The following light combinations (generated by LEDs, constant light intensity at 300 μmol m−2 s−1) were used: blue/red light; blue/red light + far red; blue/red light + UV; white light that was supplemented with green, and white light that was supplemented with blue. Moreover, two combinations of white light for which the light intensity was changed by imitating the sunrise, sunset, and moon were also tested. The reference point was also light generated by high pressure sodium lamps (HPS). Plant growth/morphological parameters under various light conditions were only partly correlated with the photosynthetic efficiency of PSI and PSII. Illumination with blue/red as the main components had a negative effect on the functioning of PSII compared to the white light and HPS-generated light. On the other hand, the functioning of PSI was especially negatively affected under the blue/red light that was supplemented with FR. The FT-Raman studies showed that the general metabolic profile of the leaves (especially proteins and β-carotene) was similar in the plants that were grown under the HPS and under the LED-generated white light for which the light intensity changed during a day. The effect of various light conditions on the leaf hormonal balance (auxins, brassinosteroids) is also discussed.
Management and Medical Therapy of Mild Hypercortisolism
Authors: Favero Vittoria , Cremaschi Arianna , Falchetti Alberto , Gaudio Agostino , Gennari Luigi , Scillitani Alfredo , Vescini Fabio , Morelli Valentina , Aresta Carmen , Chiodini Iacopo
Published: October 2021

Mild hypercortisolism (mHC) is defined as an excessive cortisol secretion, without the classical manifestations of clinically overt Cushing’s syndrome. This condition increases the risk of bone fragility, neuropsychological alterations, hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular events and mortality. At variance with Cushing’s syndrome, mHC is not rare, with it estimated to be present in up to 2% of individuals older than 60 years, with higher prevalence (up to 10%) in individuals with uncontrolled hypertension and/or diabetes or with unexplainable bone fragility. Measuring cortisol after a 1 mg overnight dexamethasone suppression test is the first-line test for searching for mHC, and the degree of cortisol suppression is associated with the presence of cortisol-related consequences and mortality. Among the additional tests used for diagnosing mHC in doubtful cases, the basal morning plasma adrenocorticotroph hormone, 24-h urinary free cortisol and/or late-night salivary cortisol could be measured, particularly in patients with possible cortisol-related complications, such as hypertension and diabetes. Surgery is considered as a possible therapeutic option in patients with munilateral adrenal incidentalomas and mHC since it improves diabetes and hypertension and reduces the fracture risk. In patients with mHC and bilateral adrenal adenomas, in whom surgery would lead to persistent hypocortisolism, and in patients refusing surgery or in whom surgery is not feasible, medical therapy is needed. Currently, promising though scarce data have been provided on the possible use of pituitary-directed agents, such as the multi-ligand somatostatin analog pasireotide or the dopamine agonist cabergoline for the—nowadays—rare patients with pituitary mHC. In the more frequently adrenal mHC, encouraging data are available for metyrapone, a steroidogenesis inhibitor acting mainly against the adrenal 11-βhydroxylase, while data on osilodrostat and levoketoconazole, other new steroidogenesis inhibitors, are still needed in patients with mHC. Finally, on the basis of promising data with mifepristone, a non-selective glucocorticoid receptor antagonist, in patients with mild cortisol hypersecretion, a randomized placebo-controlled study is ongoing for assessing the efficacy and safety of relacorilant, a selective glucocorticoid receptor antagonist, for patients with mild adrenal hypercortisolism and diabetes mellitus/impaired glucose tolerance and/or uncontrolled systolic hypertension.
Subnormal GM1 in PBMCs: Promise for Early Diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease?
Authors: Alselehdar Samar K. , Chakraborty Monami , Chowdhury Suman , Alcalay Roy N. , Surface Matthew , Ledeen Robert
Published: October 2021

The fact that Parkinson’s disease (PD) pathologies are well advanced in most PD patients by the time of clinical elucidation attests to the importance of early diagnosis. Our attempt to achieve this has capitalized on our previous finding that GM1 ganglioside is expressed at subnormal levels in virtually all tissues of sporadic PD (sPD) patients including blood cells. GM1 is present in most vertebrate cells, is especially abundant in neurons where it was shown essential for their effective functioning and long term viability. We have utilized peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) which, despite their low GM1, we found to be significantly lower in sPD patients compared to age-matched healthy controls. To quantify GM1 (and GD1a) we used high performance thin-layer chromatography combined with cholera toxin B linked to horseradish peroxidase, followed by densitometric quantification. GM1 was also deficient in PBMCs from PD patients with mutations in the glucocerebrosidase gene (PD-GBA), apparently even lower than in sPD. Reasons are given why we believe these results obtained with patients manifesting fully developed PD will apply as well to PD patients in preclinical stages—a topic for future study. We also suggest that these findings point to a potential disease altering therapy for PD once the early diagnosis is established.
Increase in the Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Euterpe oleracea Martius Oil Complexed in β-Cyclodextrin and Hydroxypropyl-β-Cyclodextrin
Authors: de Almeida Magalhães Thalita Sévia Soares , de Oliveira Macedo Pollyana Cristina , da Costa Érika Cibely Pinheiro , de Aragão Tavares Emanuella , da Silva Valéria Costa , Guerra Gerlane Coelho Bernardo , Pereira Joquebede Rodrigues , de Araújo Moura Lemos Telma Maria , de Negreiros Marília Medeiros Fernandes , de Oliveira Rocha Hugo Alexandre , Converti Attilio , de Lima Ádley Antonini Neves
Published: October 2021

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are aerobic products generated during cellular respiration, but in the case of oxidative stress, they become key factors in the development of inflammatory processes and chronic diseases such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis. In this work, Euterpe oleracea oil (EOO), as well as the complexes produced by slurry (S) and kneading (K), were analyzed for antioxidant capacity in vitro, while only the β-cyclodextrin complex obtained by kneading (EOO-βCD-K), which showed better complexation, was selected for anti-inflammatory assays in vivo. In the scavenging activity of OH·, the hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin complex obtained by kneading (EOO-HPβCD-K) exhibited an activity 437% higher than the pure oil. In the paw edema assay, EOO-βCD-K reduced edema by 200% and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity by 112%. In an air pouch model, this treatment showed a reduction in leukocyte, MPO, and Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) levels; meanwhile those of glutathione and IL-10 were increased, demonstrating its ability to potentiate the anti-inflammatory effect of EOO.
The Influences of Sulphation, Salt Type, and Salt Concentration on the Structural Heterogeneity of Glycosaminoglycans
Authors: Samantray Suman , Olubiyi Olujide O. , Strodel Birgit
Published: October 2021

The increasing recognition of the biochemical importance of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) has in recent times made them the center of attention of recent research investigations. It became evident that subtle conformational factors play an important role in determining the relationship between the chemical composition of GAGs and their activity. Therefore, a thorough understanding of their structural flexibility is needed, which is addressed in this work by means of all-atom molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Four major GAGs with different substitution patterns, namely hyaluronic acid as unsulphated GAG, heparan-6-sulphate, chondroitin-4-sulphate, and chondroitin-6-sulphate, were investigated to elucidate the influence of sulphation on the dynamical features of GAGs. Moreover, the effects of increasing NaCl and KCl concentrations were studied as well. Different structural parameters were determined from the MD simulations, in combination with a presentation of the free energy landscape of the GAG conformations, which allowed us to unravel the conformational fingerprints unique to each GAG. The largest effects on the GAG structures were found for sulphation at position 6, as well as binding of the metal ions in the absence of chloride ions to the carboxylate and sulphate groups, which both increase the GAG conformational flexibility.
Classification and Functional Analysis between Cancer and Normal Tissues Using Explainable Pathway Deep Learning through RNA-Sequencing Gene Expression
Authors: Park Sangick , Huang Eunchong , Ahn Taejin
Published: October 2021

Deep learning has proven advantageous in solving cancer diagnostic or classification problems. However, it cannot explain the rationale behind human decisions. Biological pathway databases provide well-studied relationships between genes and their pathways. As pathways comprise knowledge frameworks widely used by human researchers, representing gene-to-pathway relationships in deep learning structures may aid in their comprehension. Here, we propose a deep neural network (PathDeep), which implements gene-to-pathway relationships in its structure. We also provide an application framework measuring the contribution of pathways and genes in deep neural networks in a classification problem. We applied PathDeep to classify cancer and normal tissues based on the publicly available, large gene expression dataset. PathDeep showed higher accuracy than fully connected neural networks in distinguishing cancer from normal tissues (accuracy = 0.994) in 32 tissue samples. We identified 42 pathways related to 32 cancer tissues and 57 associated genes contributing highly to the biological functions of cancer. The most significant pathway was G-protein-coupled receptor signaling, and the most enriched function was the G1/S transition of the mitotic cell cycle, suggesting that these biological functions were the most common cancer characteristics in the 32 tissues.
Small RNA F6 Provides Mycobacterium smegmatis Entry into Dormancy
Authors: Grigorov Artem , Bychenko Oksana , Salina Elena G. , Skvortsova Yulia , Mazurova Arina , Skvortsov Timofey , Kaprelyants Arseny , Azhikina Tatyana
Published: October 2021

Regulatory small non-coding RNAs play a significant role in bacterial adaptation to changing environmental conditions. Various stresses such as hypoxia and nutrient starvation cause a reduction in the metabolic activity of Mycobacterium smegmatis, leading to entry into dormancy. We investigated the functional role of F6, a small RNA of M. smegmatis, and constructed an F6 deletion strain of M. smegmatis. Using the RNA-seq approach, we demonstrated that gene expression changes that accompany F6 deletion contributed to bacterial resistance against oxidative stress. We also found that F6 directly interacted with 5′-UTR of MSMEG_4640 mRNA encoding RpfE2, a resuscitation-promoting factor, which led to the downregulation of RpfE2 expression. The F6 deletion strain was characterized by the reduced ability to enter into dormancy (non-culturability) in the potassium deficiency model compared to the wild-type strain, indicating that F6 significantly contributes to bacterial adaptation to non-optimal growth conditions.