bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal Conditions of Paint Wastewater Coagulation With Gastropod Shell Conchiolin Using Response Surface Design and Artificial Neural Network-Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Ejimofor M.I , Ezemagu I.G , Menkiti M.C , Ugonabo V.I , Ejimofor B.U
Published: January 2022

The potential of gastropod shell conchiolin (GSC) (a waste product of the deprotenization stage of chitosan production) as one of the alternatives to chemical coagulants has been explored for treatment of paint industrial wastewater (PW). The accuracy of response surface design (RSD) and the precision of artificial intelligence (AI) in predicting and optimizing the process conditions were harnessed in raising experimental design matrix and response optimization, respectively for the bench scale jar test coagulation experiment. PW was characterized using American public health association (APHA) standard methods. Extraction of conchiolin was done via alkaline extraction method. PW contains 2098mg/l total suspended solid (TSS) above discharge limit (1905mg/l). Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrum of GSC revealed a broad N–H wagging band at 750 – 650 cm−1 indicating the presence of secondary amine linked to the presence of protein. Turbidity removal from PW via one factor at a time (OFAT) was found to be a function of pH, GSC dosage, temperature and time. Artificial neural network (ANN) response prediction shows 92% correlation with the response surface design (RSD) experimental result. The optimal conditions obtained via genetic algorithm (GA) for the response optimization at the best pH of 4 indicate optimal turbidity removal of 98% at GSC dosage, time and temperature of 4 g, 20 min and 45oC, respectively.
Evaluation of Gait Characteristics in Subjects With Locomotive Syndrome Using the Wearable Gait Sensors
Authors: Saito Yuki , Ishida Tomoya , Kataoka Yoshiaki , Takeda Ryo , Tadano Shigeru , Suzuki Teppei , Nakamura Kentaro , Nakata Akimi , Osuka Satoshi , Yamada Satoshi , Samukawa Mina , Tohyama Harukazu
Published: January 2022

Background: Locomotive syndrome (LS) is a condition where a person requires nursing care services due to problems with locomotive abilities and musculoskeletal systems. Individuals with LS have a reduced walking speed compared to those without LS. However, differences in lower-limb kinematics and during walking between individuals with and without LS are not fully understood. The purpose of this study is to clarify the characteristics of gait kinematics using wearable sensors for individuals with LS.Methods: We assessed 125 people aged 65 years and older who utilized a public health promotion facility. The participants were grouped into Non-LS, LS-stage 1, LS-stage 2 (large number indicate worse locomotive ability) based on 25-question Geriatric Locomotive Function Scale (GLFS-25). Spatiotemporal parameters and lower-limb kinematics during 10-m walking test were analyzed by 7-inertia-sensors based motion analysis system. Peak joint angles during stance and swing phase as well as gait speed, cadence and step length were compared among all groups.Results: The number of each LS stage was 69, 33, 23 for Non-LS, LS-stage 1, LS-stage 2, respectively. LS-stage2 group showed significantly smaller peak hip extension angle, hip flexion angle and knee flexion angle than Non-LS group (hip extension: Non-LS: 9.5 ± 5.3°, LS-stage 2: 4.2 ± 8.2°, P = 0.002; hip flexion: No-LS: 34.2 ± 8.8°, LS-stage 2: 28.5 ± 9.5°, P = 0.026; knee flexion: Non-LS: 65.2 ± 18.7°, LS-stage 2: 50.6 ± 18.5°, P = 0.005). LS-stage 1 and LS-stage 2 groups showed significantly slower gait speed than Non-LS group (Non-LS 1.3 ± 0.2 m/s, LS-stage1 1.2 ± 0.2 m/s, LS-stage2 1.1 ± 0.2 m/s, P < 0.001).Conclusions: LS-stage2 group showed significantly different lower-limb kinematics compared with Non-LS group including smaller hip extension, hip flexion and knee flexion. The intervention based on these kinematic characteristics measured by wearable sensors would be useful to improve the locomotive ability for individuals classified LS-stage2.
Early and Strong Antibody Responses to SARS-CoV-2 Predict Disease Severity in COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Plūme Jānis , Galvanovskis Artis , Šmite Sindija , Romanchikova Nadezda , Zayakin Pawel , Linē Aija
Published: January 2022

Background
Antibody response to SARS-CoV-2 is a valuable biomarker for the assessment of the spread of the virus in a population and evaluation of the vaccine candidates. Recent data suggest that antibody levels also may have a prognostic significance in COVID-19. Most of the serological studies so far rely on testing antibodies against spike (S) or nucleocapsid (N) protein, however antibodies can be directed against other structural and nonstructural proteins of the virus, whereas their frequency, biological and clinical significance is unknown.
Methods
A novel antigen array comprising 30 SARS-CoV-2 antigens or their fragments was developed and used to examine IgG, IgA, IgE and IgM responses to SARS-CoV-2 in sera from 103 patients with COVID-19 including 34 patients for whom sequential samples were available, and 20 pre-pandemic healthy controls.
Results
Antibody responses to various antigens are highly correlated and the frequencies and peak levels of antibodies are higher in patients with severe/moderate disease than in those with mild disease. This finding supports the idea that antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 may exacerbate the severity of the disease via antibody-dependent enhancement. Moreover, early IgG and IgA responses to full length S protein may be used as an additional biomarker for the identification of patients who are at risk of developing severe disease. Importantly, this is the first study reporting that SARS-CoV-2 elicits IgE responses and their serum levels positively correlate with the severity of the disease thus suggesting a link between high levels of antibodies and mast cell activation.
Conclusions
This is the first study assessing the prevalence and dynamics IgG, IgA, IgE and IgM responses to multiple SARS-CoV-2 antigens simultaneously. Results provide important insights into the pathogenesis of COVID-19 and have implications in planning and interpreting antibody-based epidemiological studies.
A Bolder Conservation Future for Indonesia: Conserving Biodiversity, Carbon And Unique Ecosystem In Sulawesi
Authors: Pusparini Wulan , Cahyana Andi , Grantham Hedley , Maxwell Sean , Soto-Navarro Carolina , Andayani Noviar , Macdonald David , Linkie Matthew
Published: January 2022

As more ambitious protected area (PA) targets for the post-2020 global biodiversity framework is set beyond Aichi Target 11, new spatial prioritisation thinking is required to expand protected areas to maximise different environmental values. Our study focuses on the biodiversity and forest-rich Indonesian island of Sulawesi, which has a terrestrial PA network that covers 10% of the island. We run scenarios to identified areas outside the current PA network and their representativeness of conservation features. We use Marxan to investigate trade-offs in the design of a larger PA network with varying coverage targets (17%, 30%, and 50%) that prioritises forest area, karst ecosystem, and carbon value as conservation features. Our first scenario required PAs to be selected at all times, and it required larger areas to meet these targets than our second scenario, which did not include existing PAs. The vast Mekongga, Banggai, and Popayato-Paguat landscapes were consistently identified as high priorities for protection in the various scenarios. The final section of our analysis used a spatially explicit three-phase approach to achieve this through PA expansion, the creation of new PAs, and the creation of corridors to connect existing PAs. Our findings identified 13,039 km2 of priority areas to be included in the current PA network, potentially assisting Indonesia in meeting the post-2020 GBF target if our approach is replicated elsewhere across Indonesia as a national or sub-national analysis like this study. We discuss various land management options through OECMs and the costs to deliver this strategy.
Research on the Formation Mechanism of Surface Morphology in Three-Excitation Ultrasonic Spatial Vibration-Assisted Turning
Authors: Duan Jingwei , Zou Ping , Wei Shiyu , Fang Rui , Fang Liting
Published: January 2022

To improve the machining performance of different processing materials, a three-excitation ultrasonic spatial vibration-assisted turning system is proposed, which realizes the non-unity of the plane where the cutting trajectory of the tool is located. The influence and formation law of three-excitation ultrasonic spatial vibration-assisted turning on the surface roughness of the workpiece under different vibration parameters (amplitude) and machining parameters (cutting speed, cutting depth, and feed) were analyzed by response surface methodology. The results show that in terms of vibration parameters, the influence of ultrasonic vibration applied in the horizontal direction on surface roughness is significantly greater than that of ultrasonic vibration applied in the vertical direction, while the feed has the greatest influence on surface roughness, followed by cutting speed. The surface roughness of common turning, one-dimensional ultrasonic vibration-assisted turning, ultrasonic elliptical vibration-assisted turning, and three-excitation ultrasonic spatial vibration-assisted turning were theoretically analyzed and experimentally compared. The results show that compared with the other three turning methods, the three-excitation ultrasonic spatial vibration-assisted turning can obtain a lower surface roughness and have good machinability.
Derivations of Equality Algebras
Authors: Rezaei Gholam Reza , Kologani Mona Aaly , Borzooei Rajab Ali , Takallo Mohammad Mohseni
Published: January 2022

In this paper, we introduced the concept of derivation on equality algebra E by using the notions of inner and outer derivations. Then we investigated some properties of (inner, outer) derivation and we introduced some suitable conditions that they help us to define a derivation on E. We introduced kernel and fixed point sets of derivation on E and prove that under which condition they are filters of E. Finally we prove that the equivalence relations on (E,⇝, 1) coincide with the equivalence relations on E with derivation d.(2010) MSC: 03G25, 06B10, 06B99.
Public Understanding on Rip Currents and Beach Safety at Teluk Cempedak Recreational Beach of Pahang, Malaysia
Authors: Ramli Muhammad Zahir , Aliziyad Yusairah Amani Mohd , Mohamed Juliana , Othman Siti Fairuz Che , Yusof Muhammad Zubir , Pa'suya Muhammad Faiz , Ghafar Abdul Nasir Abdul , Jabbar Waheb A.
Published: January 2022

A cross-sectional study was conducted to examine the public understanding of rips currents at Teluk Cempedak Recreational Beach of Pahang, Malaysia, from November 2020 to March 2021 via a questionnaire survey. Convenient sampling was used to collect data from 300 respondents. The questionnaire consisted of 24 questions, encompassing five sections, i.e., the demographic background, frequency of visiting the beach, swimming ability, their knowledge of rip currents, and understanding of beach safety. Associations between the study variables and the knowledge of both rip currents and beach safety were evaluated using the independent sample t-test, Chi-square test, and multiple logistic regressions at the confidence level of 0.05. In general, only 86% of the respondent knew about the rip currents. For beach safety knowledge, 83% of the respondents on the lifeguard facilities, 44% for the yellow red-flag and 93.7% for the red flag. Variables such as gender (knowledge of rip currents: Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 0.647, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.487 - 0.60, p = 0.003; beach safety: AOR = 0.665, 95% CI = 1.14 - 5.02, p = 0.021), locality (knowledge of rip currents: AOR = 2.482, 95% CI = 1.407 - 4.380, p = 0.002, beach safety: AOR = 1.821, 95% CI = 1.022 - 3.245, p = 0.042), and respondents’ experience of having problems in water activities (knowledge of rip currents: AOR = 0.170, 95% CI = 0.635 - 6.379, p = 0.000) were significantly associated with the knowledge of both rip currents and beach safety. Further studies are essential to enhance public understanding of rip currents and hence the beach safety in Malaysia.
Recurrent Nephrotic Plasma Activates Pro-fibrotic Signalling Pathways Downstream of Protease-activated Receptor 1
Authors: Chesor Musleeha , Tuffin Jack , May Carl , Ghobrial Irene , Little Melissa , Welsh Gavin , Saleem Moin
Published: January 2022

Recurrence of steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS) is thought to be due to an unknown “circulating factor”, the identity of which has so far remained elusive. Our previous work suggests a signaling role for protease-activated receptor-1 (PAR-1), leading to impaired podocyte function. Here, we show that relapse nephrotic plasma (NP), but not paired remission plasma, induced a pro-fibrotic response. This change was inhibited by PAR-1 inhibitors, but not by TGF-β1 inhibition. Four PAR-1 inhibitors demonstrated distinct antagonistic properties. The phosphorylation of VASP and JNK in a 3D spheroid model (GlomSpheres) and kidney organoids corroborated the finding from a 2D ciPods model. Functionally, relapse NP induced podocyte motility, and podocyte loss from spheroids both of which were also selectively rescued by PAR-1 inhibitors. Also, it induced the loss of podocyte-specific markers in kidney organoids. We propose that the circulating factor acts as a pro-fibrotic effector by activating PAR-1, leading to increased podocyte injury.
IL-1β Promotes A7r5 and HASMC Migration and Invasion via the p38-MAPK/Ang2 Pathway
Authors: Xu anyu , Pei jingchun , Yang Yunhong , Hua Baotong , Wang Jing
Published: January 2022

Background: The migration, proliferation, and inflammatory factor secretion of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are involved in the important pathological processes of several vascular occlusive diseases, including coronary atherosclerosis (CAS). IL-1β, as a bioactive mediator of VSMC synthesis and secretion, can promote the pathological progress of CAS. In this study, we further explored the underlying molecular mechanisms by which IL-1β regulates VSMC migration, invasion.Methods: We pretreated A7r5 and HASMC with IL-1β for 24 hours, and measured the expression of IL-1β, PCNA, cyclin D1, MMP2 and MMP9 in the cells by Western blotting. Cell migration and invasion ability were measured by Transwell and wound healing assays. Cell viability was measured by an MTT assay. Results: We found that IL-1β up-regulated the expression of proliferation-related proteins (PCNA and Cyclin D1) in A7r5 and HASMC, and induces the secretion of MMP2 and MMP9, promotes cell invasion and migration. In addition, in A7r5 and HASMCs treated with IL-1β, the expression of Ang2 increased in a time-dependent manner, transfection with si-Ang2 suppressed cell migration and invasion, with down-regulated MMP2 and MMP9 expression. In parallely, we further found that the p38-MAPK pathway is activated in cells induced by IL-1β, p38-MAPK inhibitors can down-regulate the expression of Ang2. Conclusions: These data demonstrated that IL-1β promotes A7r5 and HASMC migration and invasion via the p38-MAPK/Ang2 pathway.
AlG3 Induces AURKA to Promote Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Metastasis
Authors: huang shuixian , YANG Li-Yun , Qiao Peipei , Hu An
Published: January 2022

Objectives To investigate the relationship between ALG3 and AURKA, the expression and potential prognostic value of ALG3 in LSCC, and to then explore the impact of ALG3 in tumorigenic effects.Methods Co-immunoprecipitation assay was detected the relationship between ALG3 and AURKA, Rt-PCR and Western blot was detected the expression of related mRNA and proteins. CCK8 assay, plate colony formation assay Cells, wound healing, migration and invasion assays were used to examine the ability of proliferation, movement, migration and invasion of LSCC cells.Results ALG3 immediately induced AURKA to promote LSCC metastasis. Moreover, ALG3 highly expressed in LSCC tissues and cells and the expression of ALG3 was positively related to tumor size, lymphatic metastasis and poor clinical prognosis. Furthermore, knockdown ALG3 in LSCC cells remarkably restrain cellular proliferation, migration and invasion in vitro and vivo.Conclusion AlG3 induced AURKA to promote LSCC metastasis and ALG3 maybe potential prognostic value for LSCC.Brief AbstractAlG3 induces AURKA to promote laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma metastasis
Large crop production losses induced by global ozone stress based on interval evaluation
Authors: Cai Andong , Wang Bin , Ren Tianjing , Zhang Wenju , Wang Xiaoke , Dong Hongmin , Li Yue
Published: January 2022

Global crop yield loss due to ground-level ozone (O3) concentrations is a major challenge to food security, but a dose-response association is not easy to quantify. Here, we propose using a new metric, O3 sensitivity of crop yield (Yo), to estimate yield loss under different O3 time intervals using four observational databases. The Yo metric shows a non-linear parabola with elevated atmospheric O3 for wheat, maize, rice, soybean, and assorted vegetables. Spatial heterogeneity of yield loss varies as a function of crop type and O3 intervals. Estimates of yield loss from ozone suggest recent losses (2017-2019) may reach as high as 537 million tonnes, with a significant proportion coming with lower (30-40 ppb) exposure (325 million tonnes). Our results suggest that previous research, which only included higher (>40 ppb ozone), may have had grossly underestimated the negative effect of atmospheric O3 on crop production. Suppose these results are endemic to global crop production. In that case, additional research will be necessary to reassess ozone sensitivity and dose-responses, both spatially and temporally, to determine future air pollution impacts.
Cross-Sectional Associations Between 24-hour Activity Behaviours and Motor Competence in Youth: A Compositional Data Analysis
Authors: Tyler Richard , Atkin Andrew J. , Dainty Jack R. , Dumuid Dorothea , Fairclough Stuart J.
Published: January 2022

Background

The study aimed to examine the cross-sectional associations between 24-hour activity compositions and motor competence in children and adolescents, while stratifying by sex and school type, and investigate the predicted differences in motor competence when time was reallocated between activity behaviours.
Methods

Data were collected from 359 participants (aged 11.5±1.4 years; 49.3% boys; 96.9% White British). Seven-day 24-hour activity behaviours (sleep, sedentary time, light physical activity (LPA), moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA)) were assessed using wrist-worn accelerometers. Motor competence outcomes were obtained using the Dragon Challenge (process, product, time, and overall scores). Linear mixed models examined associations between activity behaviour compositions and motor competence outcomes for all participants and stratified by school type (primary or secondary) and sex. Post-hoc analyses modelled the influence of reallocating fixed durations of time between activity behaviours on outcomes.
Results

In all participants, relative to other activity behaviours, MVPA had the strongest associations with motor competence outcomes. The stratified models displayed that MVPA had the strongest associations with outcomes in both sexes, irrespective of school type. The largest positive, and negative predicted differences occurred when MVPA replaced LPA or sleep, and when LPA or sleep replaced MVPA, respectively.
Conclusions

Relative to other activity behaviours, MVPA appears to have the greatest influence overall on motor competence outcomes. Reallocating time from LPA or sleep to MVPA reflected the largest positive predicted changes in motor competence outcomes. Therefore, our findings reinforce the key role of MVPA for children’s and adolescents’ motor competence.
GPR55 in B cells limits atherosclerosis development and regulates plasma cell maturation
Authors: Guillamat-Prats Raquel , Hering Daniel , Rami Martina , Haerdner Carmen , Santovito Donato , Rinne Petteri , Bindila Laura , Hristov Michael , Pagano Sabrina , Vuilleumier Nicolas , Schmid Sofie , Janjic Aleksandar , Enard Wolfgang , Weber Christian , Maegdefessel Lars , Faussner Alexander , Hilgendorf Ingo , Steffens Sabine
Published: January 2022

Identifying novel pathways regulating the adaptive immune response in chronic inflammatory diseases such as atherosclerosis is of particular interest in view of developing new therapeutic drugs. Here we report that the lipid receptor GPR55 is highly expressed by splenic B cells and inversely correlates with atheroma plaque size in mice. In human carotid endarterectomy specimen, GPR55 transcript levels were significantly lower in unstable compared to stable carotid plaques. To study the impact of GPR55 deficiency in atherosclerosis, we crossed Gpr55 knockout mice with apolipoprotein E (ApoE) knockout mice and subjected the mice to Western diet for 4 to 16 weeks. Compared to ApoE-/- controls, ApoE-/-Gpr55-/- mice developed larger plaques with increased necrotic core size, associated with elevated circulating and aortic leukocyte counts. Flow cytometry, immunofluorescence and RNA-sequencing analysis of splenic B cells in these mice revealed a hyperactivated B cell phenotype with disturbed plasma cell maturation and immunoglobulin (Ig)G antibody overproduction. The specific contribution of B cell GPR55 in atherosclerosis was further studied in mixed Gpr55-/-/µMT bone marrow chimeras on low density receptor deficiency (Ldlr-/-) background, revealing that B-cell specific depletion of Gpr55 was sufficient to promote plaque development. Conversely, adoptive transfer of wildtype B cells into ApoE-/-Gpr55-/- mice blunted the proatherogenic phenotype. In vitro stimulation of splenocytes with the endogenous GPR55 ligand LPI promoted plasma cell proliferation and enhanced B cell activation marker expression, which was inhibited by the GPR55 antagonist CID16020046. Collectively, these discoveries provide new evidence for GPR55 as key modulator of the adaptive immune response in atherosclerosis. Targeting GPR55 could be useful to limit inflammation and plaque progression in patients suffering from atherosclerosis.
Quantitative And Qualitative Analysis Of The Quality Of Life Of Type 1 Diabetes Patients Using Insulin Pumps And Of Those Receiving Multiple Daily Insulin Injections
Authors: Tzivian Lilian , Sokolovska Jelizaveta , Grike Anna E , Kalcenaua Agate , Seidmann Abraham , Benis Arriel , Mednis Martins , Danovska Ieva , Berzins Ugis , Bogdanovs Arnolds , Syundyukov Emil
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Insulin pump therapy represents an alternative to multiple daily injections and can improve glycemic control and quality of life (QoL) in Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) patients. We aimed to explore the differences and factors related to the T1DM-specific QoL of such patients in Latvia.Design and methods: A mixed-method cross-sectional study on 87 adult T1DM patients included 20 pump users and 67 users of injections who participated in the quantitative part of the study; 8 pump users and 13 injection users participated in the qualitative part. Patients were invited to participate using a dedicated digital platform. Their QoL and self-management habits were assessed using specially developed questionnaires adapted to Latvian conditions. Multiple logistic regression models were built to investigate the association between social and self-management factors and patients’ QoL. In addition, qualitative analysis of answers was performed. Results: Insulin pump users were younger, had higher incomes, and reported higher T1DM expenses than users of multiple daily injections. There were no differences in self-management between the groups; Total QoL differed at the 0.1 significance level. In fully adjusted multiple logistic regression models, the most important factor that increased Total QoL was lower T1DM-related expenses (odds ratio, OR = 7.02 [95% confidence interval 1.29; 38.0]). Men and those with more years of living with T1DM had better QoL (OR = 9.62 [2.20; 42.1] and OR = 1.16 [1.05; 1.29], respectively), but the method of administration was not significantly associated with QoL (OR = 7.38 [0.87; 62.9]). Qualitative data supported the results of quantitative analysis. Conclusions: QoL was the main reason to use an insulin pump, while the expense was the main reason to avoid the use of it or to stop using it. Reimbursement policies thus should be considered to enable patients to choose the more convenient method for themselves.
A novel scalable electrode array and system for non-invasively assessing gastric function using flexible electronics
Authors: Gharibans Armen , Hayes Tommy , Carson Daniel , Calder Stefan , Varghese Chris , Du Peng , Yarmut Yaara , Waite Stephen , Keane Celia , Woodhead Jon , Andrews Christopher , O'Grady Gregory
Published: January 2022

Disorders of gastric function are highly prevalent, but diagnosis often remains symptom-based and inconclusive. Body surface gastric mapping is an emerging diagnostic solution, but current approaches lack scalability and are cumbersome and clinically impractical. We present a novel scalable system for non-invasively mapping gastric electrophysiology in high-resolution (HR) at the body-surface. The system comprises a custom-designed flexible HR sensor array and portable data-logger synchronized to an App, with automated analysis and visualization algorithms. The novel system underwent performance testing then validation in 24 healthy subjects. In all subjects, gastric electrophysiology and meal responses were successfully captured and mapped non-invasively (mean frequency 2.9 ± 0.3 cycles per minute; peak amplitude at mean 60 m postprandially with return to baseline in <4 h). Spatiotemporal mapping showed regular and consistent wave activity of mean direction 182.7°±73 (74.7% antegrade, 7.8% retrograde, 17.5% indeterminate). The presented system is a new diagnostic tool for assessing gastric function that is scalable, validated, and ready for clinical applications, offering several biomarkers that are new to gastroenterology practice.
Neuroinflammation in the anterior cingulate cortex: the potential supraspinal mechanism underlying the mirror-image pain following motor fiber injury
Authors: Li Qiao-Yun , Yao Pei-Wen , Liu Jin-Yu , Duan Yi-Wen , Chen Shao-Xia , Li Yong-Yong , Zang Ying
Published: January 2022

Background: Peripheral nerve inflammation or lesion can affect contralateral healthy structures, and thus results in mirror-image pain. Supraspinal structures play important roles in the occurrence of mirror pain. The anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) is a first order cortical region that responds to painful stimuli. In the present study, we systematically investigate and compare the neuroimmune changes in the bilateral ACC region using unilateral- (spared nerve injury, SNI) and mirror-(L5 ventral root transection, L5-VRT) pain models, aiming to explore the potential supraspinal neuroimmune mechanism underlying the mirror-image pain. Methods: The up-and-down method with von Frey hairs was used to measure the mechanical allodynia. Viral injections for the designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADD) were used to modulate ACC pyramidal neurons. Immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, western blotting, protein microarray were used to detect the regulation of inflammatory signaling.Results: Increased expressions of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and chemokine CX3CL1 in ACC induced by unilateral nerve injury were observed on the contralateral side in the SNI group but on the bilateral side in the L5-VRT group, representing a stronger immune response to L5-VRT surgery. In remote ACC, both SNI and L5-VRT induced robust bilateral increase in the protein level of Nav1.6 (SCN8A), a major voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSC) that regulates neuronal activity in the mammalian nervous system. However, the L5-VRT-induced Nav1.6 response occurred at PO 3d, earlier than the SNI-induced one, 7 days after surgery. Modulating ACC pyramidal neurons via DREADD-Gq or DREADD-Gi greatly changed the ACC CX3CL1 levels and the mechanical paw withdrawal threshold. Neutralization of endogenous ACC CX3CL1 by contralateral anti-CX3CL1 antibody attenuated the induction and the maintenance of mechanical allodynia and eliminated the upregulation of CX3CL1, TNF-α and Nav1.6 protein levels in ACC induced by SNI. Furthermore, contralateral ACC anti-CX3CL1 also inhibited the expression of ipsilateral spinal c-Fos, Iba1, CD11b, TNF-α and IL-6. Conclusions: The descending facilitation function mediated by CX3CL1 and its downstream cascade may play a pivotal role, leading to enhanced pain sensitization and even mirror-image pain. Strategies that target chemokine-mediated ACC hyperexcitability may lead to novel therapies for the treatment of neuropathic pain.
In Vitro Morphophysiological Responses of Alternanthera Tenella Colla (Amaranthaceae) to Stress Induced by Cadmium and the Attenuating Action of Silicon
Authors: Rossini Franciele Pereira , Martins João Paulo Rodrigues , Moreira Samuel Werner , Conde Lorenzo Toscano , Clairvil Evens , Braga Priscila da Conceição de Souza , Falqueto Antelmo , Gontijo Andreia Barcelos Passos Lima
Published: January 2022

Despite having the ability to bioaccumulate trace elements such as cadmium (Cd), many species also present morphophysiological disorders that can hamper their use as phytoremediation plants. Since it can lead to alterations in biomass accumulation. The employment of elements that mitigate stress, such as silicon (Si), can diminish the deleterious effects caused by trace elements. The objective of this study was to analyze the anatomical and physiological modulations induced by the synergy between Cd and Si in Alternanthera tenella plants, as well as to elucidate whether Si can mitigate the harmful effects caused by Cd under in vitro conditions. Nodal segments were cultured in media containing a concentration gradient of Cd (0, 50, 100, or 200 μM) combined with two levels of Si (0 or 40 μM) for a total of eight treatments. After 34 days, the plants' anatomy, physiology, and tolerance index were analyzed. The plants presented anatomical adjustments (such as lower stomatal index and number of vessel elements), suggesting lower translocation of Cd to the aerial part. When cultured with 200 μM Cd, the plants presented the lowest Chl a/b ratio. In the presence of Si, the decline of this ratio was smaller. Plants exposed to Cd concentrations of 50 μM without Si presented a significant decrease in the performance of the photosynthetic apparatus and tolerance index. The presence of Si in the medium reduced the damages caused by cadmium to the plants' physiology, resulting in greater growth and higher tolerance to this element.
Comparative Genomics Reveals Insights into the Divergent Evolution of Astigmatic Mites and Household Pest Adaptations
Authors: Xiong Qing , Wan Angel Tsz-Yau , Liu Xiao-Yu , Fung Cathy Sin-Hang , Xiao Xiaojun , Malainual Nat , Hou Jinpao , Wang Lingyi , Wang Mingqiang , Yang Kevin , Cui Yubao , Leung Elaine , Nong Wenyan , Shin Soo-Kyung , Au Shannon , Jeong Kyoung Yong , Chew Fook Tim , Hui Jerome , Leung Ting Fan , Tungtrongchitr Anchalee , Zhong Nanshan , Liu Zhigang , Tsui Stephen
Published: January 2022

Highly diversified astigmatic mites comprise many medically important human household pests such as house dust mites causing roughly 1–2% of the allergic diseases globally; however, their evolutionary origin, diverse lifestyles including reversible parasitism and quick adaptation to rather new human household environments have not been illustrated at genomic level, which hamper the allergy prevention and our exploration of these household pests. Using six high-quality assembled and annotated genomes, this comparative genomics study not only refuted the monophyly of mites and ticks, but also thoroughly explored the divergence of Acariformes and the divergent evolution of astigmatic mites. In the monophyletic Acariformes, Prostigmata known as notorious plant pests first evolved, then rapidly evolving Astigmata diverged from soil oribatid mites. Within astigmatic mites, a wide range of gene families rapidly expanded via tandem gene duplications, including ionotropic glutamate receptors, triacylglycerol lipases, serine proteases and UDP glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs), which enriched their capacities of adapting to rapidly changing household environments. The gene diversification after tandem duplications provided plenty of genetic resources for their adaptations of sensing environmental signals, digestion, and detoxification. Whilst many gene decay events only occurred in the skin-burrowing parasitic mite Sarcoptes scabiei. Throughout the evolution of Acariformes, massive horizontal gene transfer events occurred in gene families such as UGTs and several important fungal cell wall lytic enzymes, which enable the detoxification and associated digestive functions and provide perfect drug targets for pest control. Our comparative study sheds light on the rapid divergent evolution of astigmatic mites from the divergence of Acariformes to their diversification and provides novel insights into the genetic adaptations and even control of human household pests.
In Vitro Ballooned Hepatocytes Can Be Produced By Primary Human Hepatocytes and Hepatic Stellate Cell Sheets
Authors: Hasui Nobuhiro , Sakaguchi Katsuhisa , Shimizu Tatsuya , Sakamoto Yoshihiro , Ogawa Tetsuya
Published: January 2022

Background
Despite the increasing prevalence of Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) worldwide, there is no effective treatment available for this disease. “Ballooned hepatocyte” is a characteristic finding in NASH and is correlated with disease prognosis, but their mechanisms of action are poorly understood; furthermore, neither animal nor in vitro models of NASH have been able to adequately represent ballooned hepatocytes. Herein, we engineered cell sheets to develop a new in vitro model of ballooned hepatocytes.
Methods
Primary human hepatocytes (PHH) and Hepatic stellate cells (HSC) were co-cultured to produce cell sheets, which were cultured in glucose and lipid containing medium, following which histological and functional analyses were performed.
Results
Histological findings showed hepatocyte ballooning, accumulation of fat droplets, abnormal cytokeratin arrangement, and the presence of Mallory-Denk bodies and abnormal organelles. These findings are similar to those of ballooned hepatocytes in human NASH. Functional analysis showed elevated levels of TGFβ-1, SHH, and p62, but not TNF-α, IL-8.
Conclusions
Exposure of PHH/HSC sheets to a glucolipotoxicity environment induces ballooned hepatocyte without inflammation. Moreover, fibrosis is an important mechanism underlying ballooned hepatocytes and could be the basis for the development of a new in vitro NASH model with ballooned hepatocytes.
LncRNA HOXB-AS3 Promotes Proliferation, Migration, Invasion, and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition of Gallbladder Cancer Cells by Activating the MEK/ERK Pathway
Authors: Wu Jiayan , Zhu Hongquan , Yu Jiandong , Chen Zhiping , Lin Zeyu , Liang Yongling , Chen Qin , Li Guolin , Wan Yun-Le
Published: January 2022

OBJECTIVE: Long non-coding RNA HOXB-AS3 has been implicated in tumor progression in a variety of carcinomas. However, its biological role in gallbladder cancer (GBC) is unknown. The biological function and underlying mechanism of the lncRNA HOXB-AS3 for GBC were investigated in this study.MATERIALS AND METHODS: To investigate the function of lncRNA HOXB-AS3 in GBC, the level of lncRNA HOXB-AS3 in GBC cells was detected by quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. The cell viability was tested by cell counting kit-8 assay and colony formation assay. Flow cytometry was performed to investigate cell apoptosis and cell cycle. In addition, cell migration ability was assessed by wound healing assay and cell invasion ability by transwell invasion assay. RESULTS: It was found that HOXB-AS3 was obviously elevated in GBC tissues and cells. However, inhibition of HOXB-AS3 could depress NOZ and GBC-SD cell viability as well as induce cell apoptosis. Also, the gallbladder cancer cell cycle was blocked in the G1 phase. Meanwhile, NOZ and GBC-SD cell migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition were obviously suppressed by knockdown of HOXB-AS3. What is more, we found that HOXB-AS3 might promote gallbladder progress by activating the MEK/ERK pathway.CONCLUSION: The results show that lncRNA HOXB-AS3 serves as a key regulator in GBC progression, which provides a new treatment strategy for GBC.
Building a synthesis of economic costs of biological invasions in New Zealand
Authors: Bodey Thomas W. , Carter Zachary T. , Haubrock Phillip J. , Cuthbert Ross N. , Welsh Melissa J. , Diagne Christophe , Courchamp Franck
Published: January 2022

Biological invasions are a major component of anthropogenic environmental change, incurring substantial economic costs across all sectors of society and ecosystems. However, the economic costs of invasions have been disparately reported, lacking synthesis across taxonomic and sectorial scales. Using the newly compiled InvaCost database, we analyse reported economic damage and management costs incurred by biological invasions in New Zealand — a country renowned for its approaches to invasive species management — from 1968 to 2020. In total, US$69 billion (NZ$97 billion) is currently reported over this ~50 year period, with approximately US$9 billion of this considered highly reliable, observed (c.f. projected) costs. Most (82%) of these observed economic costs are associated with damage, with comparatively little invested in management (18%). Reported costs are increasing over time, with damage averaging US$120 million per year and exceeding management expenditure in all decades. Where specified, most reported costs are from terrestrial plants and animals, with damages most often borne by primary industries such as agriculture and forestry. Management costs are associated more with interventions by authorities and stakeholders. However, some known ecologically (c.f. economically) impactful invasive species are notably absent from estimated damage costs, and management costs are not reported for a number of game animals and agricultural pathogens. Given these gaps for known and potentially damaging invaders, we urge improved cost reporting at the national scale, including improving public accessibility through increased access and digitisation of records, particularly in overlooked socioeconomic sectors and habitats. This also further highlights the importance of investment in management to curtail future damages across all sectors.
Participatory surveillance for COVID-19 trends detection in Brazil
Authors: Wittwer Salome , Neto Onicio Batista Leal , Paolotti Daniela , Lichand Guilherme
Published: January 2022

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has emphasized the necessity of a well-functioning surveillance system to detect and mitigate disease outbreaks. Traditional surveillance (TS) usually relies on healthcare providers and generally suffers from reporting lags that prevent immediate response plans. Participatory surveillance (PS), an innovative digital approach whereby individuals voluntarily monitor and report on their own health status via Web-based surveys, has emerged in the past decade to complement traditional data collections approaches. This study compares novel PS data on COVID-19 infection rates across nine Brazilian cities with official TS data to examine the opportunities and challenges of using the former, and the potential advantages of combining the two approaches. We find that high participation rates are key for PS data to adequately mirror TS infection rates. Where participation was high, we document a significant trend correlation between lagged PS data and TS infection rates, suggesting that the former could be used for early detection. In our data, forecasting models integrating both approaches increased accuracy up to 3% relative to a 14-day forecast horizon model based exclusively on TS data. Furthermore, we show that the PS data captures a population that significantly differs from the traditional observation. These results corroborate previous studies when it comes to the benefits of an integrated and comprehensive surveillance system, but also shed lights on its limitations, and on the need for additional research to improve future implementations of PS platforms.
A Diversity-Aware Memetic Algorithm for the Linear Ordering Problem: Improving Best-Known Solutions for Standard Benchmarks
Authors: Lugo Lázaro , Segura Carlos , Miranda Gara
Published: January 2022

The Linear Ordering Problem (LOP) is a very popular NP-hard combinatorial optimization problem with many practical applications that may require the use of large instances. The Linear Ordering Library (LOLIB) gathers a set of standard benchmarks widely used in the validation of solvers for the LOP. Among them, the xLOLIB2 collects some of the largest and most challenging instances in current literature. In this work, we present new best-known solutions for each of the 200 complex instances that comprises xLOLIB2. Moreover, the proposal devised in this research is able to achieve all current best-known solutions in the rest of instances of LOLIB and improve them in other 93 cases out of 485, meaning that important advances in terms of quality and robustness are attained. This important advance in the field of the LOP has been possible thanks to the development of a novel Memetic Algorithm (MA) that was designed by taking into account some of the weaknesses of state-of-the-art LOP solvers. One of the keys to success is that the novel proposal allows for a gradual shift from exploration to exploitation, which is done by taking into account the stopping criterion and elapsed period of execution to alter the internal decisions taken by the optimizer. The novel diversity-aware proposal is called the Memetic Algorithm with Explicit Diversity Management (MA-EDM) and extensive comparisons against state-of-the-art techniques provide insights into the reasons for the superiority of MA-EDM.
Slug and Vimentin Downregulation at the Metastatic Site Is Associated With Skip-N2 Metastasis of Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: SAYGIDEGER Yasemin , AVCI Alper , BAGIR Emine , DEMİR Burcu SAYGIDEĞER , Ms Aycan SEZAN , EKICI Mucahit , BAYDAR Oya , ERKIN Ozgur Cem
Published: January 2022

Objective: Lung cancer displays heterogeneity both in the tumor itself and in its metastatic regions. One interesting behavior of the tumor is known as Skip N2 metastasis, which N2 lymph nodes contain tumor cells while N1 are clean. In this study, mRNA levels of epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) related genes in skip N2 and normal N2 involvements of non-small cell lung cancer tissues were investigated to evaluate the possible molecular background that may contribute to the pathogenesis of Skip N2 metastasis. Materials and Methods: Eighty-three surgically resected and paraffin embedded lymph node samples of lung cancer patients were analyzed in this study, which 40 of them were Skip N2. N2 tissues were sampled from 50% tumor containing areas and total RNA was extracted. mRNA levels for 18S, E-cadherin, Vimentin, ZEB1 and SLUG were analyzed via qPCR and E-cadherin and vimentin protein levels via immunohistochemistry (IHC). Bioinformatic analysis were adopted using online datasets to evaluate significantly co-expressed genes with SLUG in lung cancer tissue samples.Results: Skip-N2 patients who had adenocarcinoma subtype had better survival rates. Comparative analysis of PCR results indicated that Skip N2 tumor tissues had increased E-Cadherin/Vimentin ratio and ZEB1 mRNA expression, and significantly decreased levels of SLUG. E-cadherin IHC staining were higher in Skip N2 and Vimentin were in Non-Skip N2. TP63 had a strong correlation with SLUG expression in the bioinformatics analyses.Conclusion: The results indicate that, at molecular level, Skip N2 pathogenesis has different molecular background and regulation of SLUG expression may orchestrate the process.
Measured distribution of cloud chamber tracks from radioactive decay: a new empirical approach to investigating the quantum measurement problem
Authors: Schonfeld Jonathan
Published: January 2022

Using publicly available video of a diffusion cloud chamber with a very smallradioactive source, I measure the spatial distribution of where tracks start, and consider possibleimplications. This is directly relevant to the quantum measurement problem and its possibleresolution, and appears never to have been done before. The raw data are relatively uncontrolled,leading to caveats that should guide future, more tailored experiments. Results may suggest amodification to Born’s rule at very small wavefunction, with possibly profound implications forthe detection of extremely rare events such as proton decay. I introduce two candidate smallwavefunctionBorn rule modifications, a hard cutoff and an offset model; the data may favor theoffset model, which has a stronger underlying physical rationale. Track distributions from decaysin cloud chambers represent a previously unappreciated way to probe the foundations of quantummechanics, and a novel case of wavefunctions with macroscopic signatures.
Discrete Approximate Solution of Differential Inclusion with Normal Cone and Prox-Regular Set.
Authors: Beddani Abdallah , Sahraoui Rahma
Published: January 2022

Our aim is to calculate the discrete approximate solution of di⁄erential inclusion with normal cone and prox-regular set, the question is how to calculate this solution? We use the discrete approximation property of a new variant of nonconvex sweeping processes involving normal cone and a nite element method. Knowing that The majority of mathematicians have proved only the existence and uniqueness of the solution for this type of inclusions, like: Mordukhovich, Thibault, Aubin, Messaoud, ...etc.
Use of Dexmedetomidine in a Patient Allergic to Clonidine Presenting for an Awake Craniotomy: A Case Report
Authors: Srita Yasmin , Cornell Brett , Maggard Brittany
Published: January 2022

Introduction: The use of dexmedetomidine with concurrent scalp block is increasingly being utilized as an effective and safe anesthetic approach for awake craniotomy (AC). Dexmedetomidine is an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor (α2-AR) agonist with dose-dependent sedative, analgesic, and anxiolytic properties while preserving respiratory function. The challenge with the use of dexmedetomidine arises when the patient in question has a clonidine allergy that is also an α2-AR agonist. Currently there aren’t any published literature regarding the use of dexmedetomidine in a patient allergic to clonidine. Case Presentation: A 48-year-old male with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, obstructive sleep apnea, and body mass index of 54 with clonidine allergy presents for an AC. Given the goals of the surgery and patient comorbidities, we planned for monitored anesthesia care with intravenous (IV) dexmedetomidine, remifentanil, and propofol. We discussed the use of dexmedetomidine with the patient and the potential risk of allergic reaction given his allergy to clonidine. Patient understood the risk and consented to the anesthetic plan. AC was successfully performed with IV dexmedetomidine, remifentanil, and propofol.Conclusion: Although both dexmedetomidine and clonidine have some functional similarities in terms of acting on the central and peripheral nervous system, there are marked differences between the two based on chemical structure, receptor affinity, and metabolism of the drug. This case highlights the successful use of dexmedetomidine in a patient with known allergy of rash to clonidine.