bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pressurized Liquid Extraction for the Recovery of Bioactive Compounds from Seaweeds for Food Industry Application: A Review
Authors: Perez-Vazquez Ana , Carpena Maria , Barciela Paula , Cassani Lucia , Simal-Gandara Jesus , Prieto Miguel A.
Published: March 2023

Seaweeds are an underutilized food in the Western world, but they are widely consumed in Asia, with China being the world’s larger producer. Seaweeds have gained attention in the food industry in recent years because of their composition, which includes polysaccharides, lipids, proteins, dietary fiber, and various bioactive compounds such as vitamins, essential minerals, phenolic compounds, and pigments. Extraction techniques, ranging from more traditional techniques such as maceration to novel technologies, are required to obtain these components. Pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) is a green technique that uses high temperatures and pressure applied in conjunction with a solvent to extract components from a solid matrix. To improve the efficiency of this technique, different parameters such as the solvent, temperature, pressure, extraction time and number of cycles should be carefully optimized. It is important to note that PLE conditions allow for the extraction of target analytes in a short-time period while using less solvent and maintaining a high yield. Moreover, the combination of PLE with other techniques has been already applied to extract compounds from different matrices, including seaweeds. In this way, the combination of PLE-SFE-CO2 seems to be the best option considering both the higher yields obtained and the economic feasibility of a scaling-up approximation. In addition, the food industry is interested in incorporating the compounds extracted from edible seaweeds into food packaging (including edible coating, bioplastics and bio-nanocomposites incorporated into bioplastics), food products and animal feed to improve their nutritional profile and technological properties. This review attempts to compile and analyze the current data available regarding the application of PLE in seaweeds to determine the use of this extraction technique as a method to obtain active compounds of interest for food industry application.
Differential Apoptotic Effects of Bee Product Mixtures on Normal and Cancer Hepatic Cells
Authors: Sánchez-Martín Vanesa , Morales Paloma , Iriondo-DeHond Amaia , Hospital Xavier F. , Fernández Manuela , Hierro Eva , Haza Ana I.
Published: March 2023

Most effective anticancer drugs normally generate considerable cytotoxicity in normal cells; therefore, the preferential activation of apoptosis in cancer cells and the reduction of toxicity in normal cells is a great challenge in cancer research. Natural products with selective anticancer properties used as complementary medicine can help to achieve this goal. The aim of the present study was to analyze the effect of the addition of bee products [propolis (PR) or royal jelly (RJ) or propolis and royal jelly (PR+RJ), 2–10%] to thyme (TH) and chestnut honeys (CH) on the differential anticancer properties, mainly the cytotoxic and pro-apoptotic effects, in normal and cancer hepatic cells. The cytotoxic effects of samples were analyzed using the MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay (0–250 mg/mL) and the effects on apoptosis were analyzed using cell cycle analysis, TdT-dUTP terminal nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assay, DR5 (Death Receptor 5) and BAX (BCL-2-Associated X) activation, and caspases 8, 9, and 3 activities. Both honey samples alone and honey mixtures had no or very little apoptotic effect on normal cells. Antioxidant honey mixtures enhanced the apoptotic capacity of the corresponding honey alone via both extrinsic and intrinsic pathways. Of all the samples, chestnut honey enriched with 10% royal jelly and 10% propolis (sample 14, CH+10RJ+10PR) showed the highest apoptotic effect on tumor liver cells. The enrichment of monofloral honey with bee products could be used together with conventional anticancer treatments as a dietary supplement without side effects. On the other hand, it could be included in the diet as a natural sweetener with high added value.
Polyunsaturated Lipids in the Light-Exposed and Prooxidant Retinal Environment
Authors: Longoni Biancamaria , Demontis Gian Carlo
Published: March 2023

The retina is an oxidative stress-prone tissue due to high content of polyunsaturated lipids, exposure to visible light stimuli in the 400–480 nm range, and high oxygen availability provided by choroidal capillaries to support oxidative metabolism. Indeed, lipids’ peroxidation and their conversion into reactive species promoting inflammation have been reported and connected to retinal degenerations. Here, we review recent evidence showing how retinal polyunsaturated lipids, in addition to oxidative stress and damage, may counteract the inflammatory response triggered by blue light-activated carotenoid derivatives, enabling long-term retina operation despite its prooxidant environment. These two aspects of retinal polyunsaturated lipids require tight control over their synthesis to avoid overcoming their protective actions by an increase in lipid peroxidation due to oxidative stress. We review emerging evidence on different transcriptional control mechanisms operating in retinal cells to modulate polyunsaturated lipid synthesis over the life span, from the immature to the ageing retina. Finally, we discuss the antioxidant role of food nutrients such as xanthophylls and carotenoids that have been shown to empower retinal cells’ antioxidant responses and counteract the adverse impact of prooxidant stimuli on sight.
Preparation of Vanillin-Taurine Antioxidant Compound, Characterization, and Evaluation for Improving the Post-Harvest Quality of Litchi
Authors: Javed Hafiz Umer , Liu Ruofan , Li Cuijin , Zhong Sixia , Lai Jiechang , Hasan Murtaza , Shu Xugang , Zeng Li-Yan
Published: March 2023

Litchi’s post-harvest pericarp browning is one of the main constraints that drastically affect its visual attributes and market potential. Therefore, the vanillin-taurine Schiff base (VTSB) compound prepared from natural compounds of vanillin and taurine exhibited higher DPPH-radical-scavenging invitro antioxidant activity than vanillin. VTSB first-time report to mitigate the postharvest browning of litchi fruit. In this study, litchi fruits were dipped in 0.3 mM (based on pre-experiment) VTSB solution and stored at 25 ± 1 °C for six days to examine their effects on browning and postharvest quality. Fruit treated with VTSB had lower levels of browning degree (BD), browning index (BI), weight loss, soluble quinone (SQ), relative electrolyte leakage (REL), and malondialdehyde (MDA) than control fruit. Additionally, total anthocyanins and phenolic concentrations, Total soluble solids (TSS), and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl-free radical scavenging activity (DPPH-RSA) were preserved higher in VTSB-treated litchi fruit. The levels of Ascorbate peroxidase (APX), Superoxide dismutase (SOD), and Catalase (CAT) were higher in treated fruit, whereas polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and Peroxidase (POD) were decreased during the postharvest period. This study suggested that VTSB would be very useful for different post-harvest problems in the fruit and vegetable industry.
Modeling and Position Control of Fiber Braided Bending Actuator Using Embedded System
Authors: Nasir Mohd Nizar Muhammad , Nordin Ili Najaa Aimi Mohd , Faudzi Ahmad Athif Mohd , Muftah Mohamed Naji , Yusoff Mohd Akmal Mhd , Mohamaddan Shahrol
Published: March 2023

The System identification (SI) black box method is used in this study to obtain the mathematical model of a fiber braided bending actuator (FBBA) using MATLAB Simulink. Data from the system input and output are used by the black box method. Thus, the voltage supplied to the electro-pneumatic regulators and the position (angle) of the FBBA system are used to collect input–output data in this study. In the system, PRBS generators are used to generate an input signal for the electro-pneumatic valve. The auto-regressive with exogenous input (ARX) model is chosen. As the controller for the FBBA position system, PID with the Genetic Algorithm (GA) tuning method and auto-tuned tuning method is proposed. The reference angle, simulation, and actual test are compared. The mathematical model gained from the SI method is verified through the simulation and test result of the position control. It was found that the model obtained through SI able represent the actual plant.
Continuous Monitoring of Transmission Lines Sag through Angular Measurements Performed with Wireless Sensors
Authors: Zanelli Federico , Mauri Marco , Castelli-Dezza Francesco , Ripamonti Francesco
Published: March 2023

High voltage transmission lines are crucial infrastructure that are demanded to supply an increasing request of electric energy. In the design and operations stages, sag represents a key parameter which must respect specific constraints. Therefore, sag continuous monitoring is becoming essential to guarantee the correct functioning of the line and to optimize the current flow. Different solutions have been proposed in literature, but they are still lacking efficiency and reliability to be used during operations. In this work, a simple and efficient method, based on conductor parabolic approximation, is developed and used to compute the sag through the measurement of the conductor slope in proximity of the span extremities. The angular measurements are obtained using wireless sensors equipped with MEMS accelerometers developed by authors and employed for HVTL conductor vibration monitoring. The proposed method and its implementation in the monitoring system was tested in a laboratory environment on a real conductor. The values of sag at different tensile loads have been obtained and compared to the measured ones, with satisfactory results according to the accelerometer resolution. The solution developed therefore represents a complete and innovative tool to be adopted in the field to monitor, in real time, both the sag and the level of vibration due to the wind action, allowing to increase the performance reliability of HVTL.
A Review on the Implementation of the BIM Methodology in the Operation Maintenance and Transport Infrastructure
Authors: Cepa Jorge Jerez , Pavón Rubén M. , Alberti Marcos G. , Ciccone Angelo , Asprone Domenico
Published: March 2023

There has been a significant increase in studies related to Industry 4.0 alongside the development of new technologies, devices and software, becoming one of the most relevant topics for years within the so-called Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). The Architecture, Engineering and Construction sector (AEC) sector is one step behind other engineering fields in productivity, and digitalisation can help reduce this gap. Building Information Modelling (BIM) implementation in various project phases with other technologies such as the Internet of Things, Big Data, Blockchain or Geographic Information System (GIS) are the main drivers of Smart Construction. This paper provides an updated state-of-art of the BIM applications through different civil engineering projects and towards the use of new Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). Hence, the integration of BIM in the Facility Management through ICTs allows decision making based on data analysis and the optimization of available resources.
Democratizing Deep Learning Applications in Earth and Climate Sciences on the Web: EarthAIHub
Authors: Sit Muhammed , Demir Ibrahim
Published: March 2023

Most deep learning application studies have limited accessibility and reproducibility for researchers and students in many domains, especially in earth and climate sciences. In order to provide a step towards improving the accessibility of deep learning models in such disciplines, this study presents a community-driven framework and repository, EarthAIHub, that is powered by TensorFlow.js, where deep learning models can be tested and run without extensive technical knowledge. In order to achieve this, we present a configuration data specification to form a middleware, an abstraction layer, between the framework and deep learning models. Once an easy-to-create configuration file is generated for a model by the user, EarthAIHub seamlessly makes the model publicly available for testing and access using a web platform. The platform and community-enabled model repository will benefit students and researchers who are new to the deep learning domain by enabling them to access and test existing models in the community with their datasets, and researchers to share their novel deep learning models with the community. The platform will help researchers test models before adapting them to their research and learn about a model’s details and performance.
Exploring the Advancements and Future Research Directions of Artificial Neural Networks: A Text Mining Approach
Authors: Kariri Elham , Louati Hassen , Louati Ali , Masmoudi Fatma
Published: March 2023

Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) are machine learning algorithms inspired by the structure and function of the human brain. Their popularity has increased in recent years due to their ability to learn and improve through experience, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. ANNs are often used as part of deep learning, which enables them to learn, transfer knowledge, make predictions, and take action. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of ANNs and explore potential directions for future research. To achieve this, the paper analyzes 10,661 articles and 35,973 keywords from various journals using a text-mining approach. The results of the analysis show that there is a high level of interest in topics related to machine learning, deep learning, and ANNs and that research in this field is increasingly focusing on areas such as optimization techniques, feature extraction and selection, and clustering. The study presented in this paper is motivated by the need for a framework to guide the continued study and development of ANNs. By providing insights into the current state of research on ANNs, this paper aims to promote a deeper understanding of ANNs and to facilitate the development of new techniques and applications for ANNs in the future.
Numerical Study on Cooling Performance Characteristics of 22 kW Traction Inverter Using MHD Pump-Based Cooling System
Authors: Hwang Seong-Guk , Kudriavskyi Yurii , Garud Kunal Sandip , Lee Moo-Yeon
Published: March 2023

The transportation sector is sharply shifting towards electric vehicles (EVs) to reduce environmental issues and the energy crisis. To enhance the driving range and performance of EVs, the integral parts of EVs are being developed with higher energy densities and compact structures. Traction inverters are one of the important parts of EVs which are continuously updating to higher power densities with smaller sizes. This has led to issues of high heat generation, which causes the performance degradation and failure of traction inverters. Therefore, an efficient cooling strategy needs to be proposed for the effective thermal management of traction inverters in EVs. In the present work, the magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) pump-based cooling system is developed for the thermal management of traction inverter for EVs. The cooling performance of traction inverters is investigated using a MHD pump-based cooling system with water and ferrofluid as coolants. The outlet velocity, inverter maximum temperature, and Nusselt number are numerically simulated as the cooling performance characteristics for various operating conditions of inlet velocity, magnetic field intensity, voltage, and volume fraction of ferrofluid. The coupled numerical model is developed using COMSOL Multiphysics commercial software to simulate the cooling performance of a traction inverter with an MHD pump-based cooling system under various conditions. The MHD pump improves the cooling performance of a traction inverter for ferrofluid cooling over water cooling. The cooling performance of the traction inverter improves with an increase in inlet velocity for both water and ferrofluid cooling. However, with an increase in voltage, magnetic field intensity, and volume fraction, the cooling performance of the traction inverter improves only for ferrofluid cooling. The outlet velocity, inverter maximum temperature and Nusselt number in the case of water cooling are 4.03 mm/s and 7.02 mm/s, 49.65 °C, respectively, whereas that in the case of ferrofluid cooling are 40.96 °C, 15.35, and 18.49, respectively. Further, the cooling performance improves for ferrofluid cooling at a magnetic field intensity of 0.4 T and volume fraction of 10% with outlet velocity, inverter maximum temperature, and Nusselt number approach to 12.08 mm/s, 32 °C and 21.43, respectively.
Effective Techniques for Protecting the Privacy of Web Users
Authors: Bubukayr Maryam , Frikha Mounir
Published: March 2023

With the rapid growth of web networks, the security and privacy of online users are becoming more compromised. Especially, the use of third-party services to track users’ activities and improve website performance. Therefore, it is unavoidable that using personal information to create unique profiles may violate individuals’ privacy. Recently, several tools have been developed such as anonymity, anti-tracking, and browser plugins to ensure the protection of users from third-party tracking methods by blocking JavaScript programs and other website components. However, the current state lacks an efficient approach that provides a comprehensive solution. In this paper, we conducted a systematic analysis of the most common privacy protection tools based on their accuracy and performance by evaluating their effectiveness in correctly classifying tracking and functional JavaScript programs, then evaluating the estimated time the browser takes to render the pages for each tool. To achieve this, we automatically browsed the most 50 websites determined in 2022 and categorized them according to different fields to get the in-page (as part of HTML script tags), and all external JavaScript programs. Then we collected data and datasets of 1578 JavaScript elements and obtained six diverse Firefox profiles when the tools were enabled. The results found that Ghostery has the highest percentage of allowing most functioning scripts with the lowest average error rate (AER). While at the same time NoScript achieved the highest percentage of blocking most tracking scripts since it is the highest blocker of third-party services. After that, we examined the speed of the browser finding that, Ghostery improved the load time by 36.2% faster than the baseline, while Privacy Badger only reduced the load time by 7.1%. We believe that our findings can help users decide on a privacy tool that meets their needs. Moreover, researchers and developers can use our findings to improve the privacy of internet users by designing more effective privacy protection techniques.
Encoding the Intensity and Phase Gradient of Light Beams with Arbitrary Shapes
Authors: Serrano-Trujillo Alejandra , Ruiz-Cortés Víctor
Published: March 2023

We present an approach for engineering the intensity trajectory and phase gradient of light beams with arbitrary shapes by estimating their parametric equations using Freeman chain code and by applying the fast Fourier transform. The analysis of the electric field distribution expected for a given curve allows the phase extraction over each local coordinate, generating a phase pattern to be displayed over a spatial light modulator. The intensity and phase gradient of eight different shapes is encoded during our experiments. The far field intensity profiles are captured and compared in shape to those designed, while the encoded phase is demonstrated by implementing a common path interference setup with a pair of beams from the spatial light modulator. The designed beams, initially drawn either by hand or generated with software, exhibit both the intensity and phase profiles encoded onto them.
Airborne Brake Wear Emissions from a Battery Electric Vehicle
Authors: Bondorf Linda , Köhler Lennart , Grein Tobias , Epple Fabius , Philipps Franz , Aigner Manfred , Schripp Tobias
Published: March 2023

Although traffic exhaust emissions in Europe have been drastically reduced, airborne particle emissions caused by brakes and tires are still increasing with the number of vehicles. The measurement of non-exhaust emissions is an emerging technological challenge. We present a custom measurement setup to investigate the brake- and tire-wear emissions of an in-use battery electric vehicle. A separate brake housing and HEPA ventilation enabled airborne brake wear emissions to be measured under realistic conditions without external influences. The emission tests on a chassis dynamometer included particle number concentrations and particle size distribution for diameters of 4 nm to 10 μm. Emission indices were determined for three driving cycles: WLTC Class 3b, WLTC Brake Part 10, and a real driving cycle. Further investigations focused on emission control through regenerative braking and brake coating. Driving with regenerative braking reduced emissions by up to 89.9%, which related to the concentration of particles in the ultrafine/fine size range. Hard-metal brake coating led to a further significant reduction in emissions of up to 78.9%. The results point the way to future RDE measurement of non-exhaust emissions and show the potential of regenerative braking and brake coating to reduce airborne brake wear emissions.
Life Cycle Assessment of Post-Combustion CO2 Capture and Recovery by Hydrophobic Polypropylene Cross-Flow Hollow Fiber Membrane Contactors with Activated Methyldiethanolamine
Authors: Akan Aytac Perihan , Chau John , Gullu Gulen , Sirkar Kamalesh K.
Published: March 2023

The present study evaluated the environmental impacts of post-combustion CO2 capture and recovery via membrane–gas absorption processes. We have used SimaPro v.9 packages with the Ecoinvent v3.5 database employing two different methods, ReCiPe 2016 Endpoint (H) and Midpoint (H), considering a fundamental methodological framework to determine the most environmentally friendly experimental condition. Life cycle impact categories were examined and assessed supposing a functional unit of 1 kgCO2/h recovered. Fourteen environmental impact categories including global warming, ozone depletion, eutrophication, and toxicity potentials have been evaluated within the context of a gate-to-gate approach focusing on only the process stage. Simulation results showed that the maximum liquid flow rate, sweep helium flow rate together with the minimum solvent concentration demonstrated the highest impact on human health, ecosystem, and resources. The usage of pure methyldiethanolamine (MDEA) activated by piperazine as a reactive absorbent provided the lowest environmental impact due to the elimination of the energy needed to heat and evaporate water present in aqueous absorbent solutions and the prevention of the excess water consumption depending on meeting the water needed for reactive absorption of CO2 in tertiary amine MDEA from simulated humidified flue gas stream. The study highlights the importance of LCA in the determination of an environmentally more sustainable condition during the capture and recovery of post-combustion CO2 by gas absorption and stripping using membrane contactors in tertiary amine MDEA.
Induction and Cancellation of Self-Motion Misperception by Asymmetric Rotation in the Light
Authors: Pettorossi Vito Enrico , Occhigrossi Chiara , Panichi Roberto , Botti Fabio Massimo , Ferraresi Aldo , Ricci Giampietro , Faralli Mario
Published: March 2023

Asymmetrical sinusoidal whole-body rotation sequences with half-cycles at different velocities induce self-motion misperception. This is due to an adaptive process of the vestibular system that progressively reduces the perception of slow motion and increases that of fast motion. It was found that perceptual responses were conditioned by four previous cycles of asymmetric rotation in the dark, as the perception of self-motion during slow and fast rotations remained altered for several minutes. Surprisingly, this conditioned misperception remained even when asymmetric stimulation was performed in the light, a state in which vision completely cancels out the perceptual error. This suggests that vision is unable to cancel the misadaptation in the vestibular system but corrects it downstream in the central perceptual processing. Interestingly, the internal vestibular perceptual misperception can be cancelled by a sequence of asymmetric rotations with fast/slow half-cycles in a direction opposite to that of the conditioning asymmetric rotations.
Entire Gaussian Functions: Probability of Zeros Absence
Authors: Kuryliak Andriy , Skaskiv Oleh
Published: March 2023

In this paper, we consider a random entire function of the form f(z,ω)=∑n=0+∞εn(ω1)×ξn(ω2)fnzn, where (εn) is a sequence of independent Steinhaus random variables, (ξn) is the a sequence of independent standard complex Gaussian random variables, and a sequence of numbers fn∈C is such that lim¯n→+∞|fn|n=0 and #{n:fn≠0}=+∞. We investigate asymptotic estimates of the probability P0(r)=P{ω:f(z,ω) has no zeros inside rD} as r→+∞ outside of some set E of finite logarithmic measure, i.e., ∫E∩[1,+∞)dlnr<+∞. The obtained asymptotic estimates for the probability of the absence of zeros for entire Gaussian functions are in a certain sense the best possible result. Furthermore, we give an answer to an open question of A. Nishry for such random functions.
Safety Issues of Layered Nickel-Based Cathode Materials for Lithium-Ion Batteries: Origin, Strategies and Prospects
Authors: Tang Zhongfeng , Feng Dandan , Xu Yali , Chen Lei , Zhang Xiangdan , Ma Qiang
Published: March 2023

Layered lithium transition metal (TM) oxides LiTMO2 (TM = Ni, Co, Mn, Al, etc.) are the most promising cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries because of their high energy density, good rate capability and moderate cost. However, the safety issue arising from the intrinsic thermal instability of nickel-based cathode materials is still a critical challenge for further applications in electric vehicles and energy storage power stations. The main reasons include side reactions between the highly reactive Ni3+/4+ and liquid electrolyte, oxygen release accompanied by structural phase transition, and internal microcrack propagation owing to the low strength of spherical secondary particles. Great efforts have been invested to modify nickel-based cathode materials such as stabilization of bulk structure by element doping, surface engineering, nanostructure design, and particle mono-crystallization. In this review, we summarize these advances and try to give an in-depth insight into the origin of the thermal instability of nickel-based cathode materials. More importantly, some effective strategies to improve thermal stability are outlined, expecting to accelerate the future development of layered TM oxides with high safety.
Recent Advances in Coupled MBS and FEM Models of the Spine—A Review
Authors: Nispel Kati , Lerchl Tanja , Senner Veit , Kirschke Jan S.
Published: March 2023

How back pain is related to intervertebral disc degeneration, spinal loading or sports-related overuse remains an unanswered question of biomechanics. Coupled MBS and FEM simulations can provide a holistic view of the spine by considering both the overall kinematics and kinetics of the spine and the inner stress distribution of flexible components. We reviewed studies that included MBS and FEM co-simulations of the spine. Thereby, we classified the studies into unidirectional and bidirectional co-simulation, according to their data exchange methods. Several studies have demonstrated that using unidirectional co-simulation models provides useful insights into spinal biomechanics, although synchronizing the two distinct models remains a key challenge, often requiring extensive manual intervention. The use of a bidirectional co-simulation features an iterative, automated process with a constant data exchange between integrated subsystems. It reduces manual corrections of vertebra positions or reaction forces and enables detailed modeling of dynamic load cases. Bidirectional co-simulations are thus a promising new research approach for improved spine modeling, as a main challenge in spinal biomechanics is the nonlinear deformation of the intervertebral discs. Future studies will likely include the automated implementation of patient-specific bidirectional co-simulation models using hyper- or poroelastic intervertebral disc FEM models and muscle forces examined by an optimization algorithm in MBS. Applications range from clinical diagnosis to biomechanical analysis of overload situations in sports and injury prediction.
Gene Editing of the Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Gene to Sterilize Channel Catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, Using a Modified Transcription Activator-like Effector Nuclease Technology with Electroporation
Authors: Qin Guyu , Qin Zhenkui , Lu Cuiyu , Ye Zhi , Elaswad Ahmed , Jin Yulin , Khan Mohd Golam Quader , Su Baofeng , Dunham Rex A.
Published: March 2023

Follicle-stimulating hormone (fsh) plays an important role in sexual maturation in catfish. Knocking out the fsh gene in the fish zygote should suppress the reproduction of channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus). In this study, transcription activator-like effector nuclease (TALEN) plasmids targeting the fsh gene were electroporated into fertilized eggs with the standard double electroporation technique. Targeted fsh cleavage efficiency was 63.2% in P1fsh-knockout catfish. Ten of fifteen (66.7%) control pairs spawned, and their eggs had 32.3–74.3% average hatch rates in 2016 and 2017. Without hormone therapy, the spawning rates of P1 mutants ranged from 33.3 to 40.0%, with an average egg hatching rate of 0.75%. After confirmation of the low fertility of P1 mutants in 2016, human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) hormone therapy improved the spawning rates by 80% for female mutants and 88.9% for male mutants, and the mean hatch rate was 35.0% for F1 embryos, similar to that of the controls (p > 0.05). Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) identification showed no potential TALEN plasmid integration into the P1 channel catfish genome. Neither the P1 nor the F1 mutant fish showed any noticeable changes in in body weight, survival rate, and hatching rate when the reproductive gene was knocked out. F1 families had a mean inheritance rate of 50.3%. The results brought us one step closer to allowing implementation of certain genetic techniques to aquaculture and fisheries management, while essentially eliminating the potential environment risk posed by transgenic, hybrid, and exotic fish as well as domestic fish.
Genetic Variants in Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase Non-Receptor Type 23 Are Responsible for Mesiodens Formation
Authors: Adisornkanj Ploy , Chanprasit Rajit , Eliason Steven , Fons Juan M. , Intachai Worrachet , Tongsima Sissades , Olsen Bjorn , Arold Stefan T. , Ngamphiw Chumpol , Amendt Brad A. , Tucker Abigail S. , Kantaputra Piranit
Published: March 2023

A mesiodens is a supernumerary tooth located in the midline of the premaxilla. To investigate the genetic cause of mesiodens, clinical and radiographic examination were performed on 23 family members of a two-generation Hmong family. Whole exome sequencing (WES) or Sanger sequencing were performed in 22 family members and two unrelated Thai patients with mesiodens. WES in the Hmong family revealed a missense mutation (c.1807G>A;p.Glu603Lys) in PTPN23 in seven affected members and six unaffected members. The mode of inheritance was autosomal dominance with incomplete penetrance (53.84%). Two additional mutations in PTPN23, c.2248C>G;p.Pro750Ala and c.3298C>T;p.Arg1100Cys were identified in two unrelated patients with mesiodens. PTPN23 is a regulator of endosomal trafficking functioning to move activated membrane receptors, such as EGFR, from the endosomal sorting complex towards the ESCRT-III complex for multivesicular body biogenesis, lysosomal degradation, and subsequent downregulation of receptor signaling. Immunohistochemical study and RNAscope on developing mouse embryos showed broad expression of PTPN23 in oral tissues, while immunofluorescence showed that EGFR was specifically concentrated in the midline epithelium. Importantly, PTPN23 mutant protein was shown to have reduced phosphatase activity. In conclusion, mesiodens were associated with genetic variants in PTPN23, suggesting that mesiodens may form due to defects in endosomal trafficking, leading to disrupted midline signaling.
Arthropod Ectoparasites of Two Rodent Species Occurring in Varied Elevations on Tanzania’s Second Highest Mountain
Authors: Gebrezgiher Genet B. , Makundi Rhodes H. , Katakweba Abdul A. S. , Belmain Steven R. , Lyimo Charles M. , Meheretu Yonas
Published: March 2023

Climate change causes organisms, including species that act as parasite reservoirs and vectors, to shift their distribution to higher altitudes, affecting wildlife infestation patterns. We studied how ectoparasite distributions varied with altitude using two rodent species, Montemys delectorum and Rhabdomys dilectus, at different elevations (1500–3500 m). The ectoparasites infesting the two rodent species were influenced by the host sex, species, and temperature. We expected host density to predict parasite infestation patterns, because hosts in higher densities should have more parasites due to increased contact between individuals. However, temperature, not host density, affected ectoparasite distribution. Since temperatures decrease with elevation, parasite prevalences and abundances were lower at higher elevations, highlighting that the cold conditions at higher elevations limit reproduction and development—this shows that higher elevation zones are ideal for conservation. The rodents and ectoparasite species described in this study have been reported as vectors of diseases of medical and veterinary importance, necessitating precautions. Moreover, Mount Meru is a refuge for a number of endemic and threatened species on the IUCN Red List. Thus, the parasitic infection can also be an additional risk to these critical species as well as biodiversity in general. Therefore, our study lays the groundwork for future wildlife disease surveillance and biodiversity conservation management actions. The study found a previously uncharacterized mite species in the Mesostigmata group that was previously known to be a parasite of honeybees. Further investigations may shed light into the role of this mite species on Mount Meru.
Hepatocyte Toll-Like Receptor 4 Mediates Alcohol-Induced Insulin Resistance in Mice
Authors: Wickramasinghe Piumi B. , Qian Shuwen , Langley Lyndsey E. , Liu Chen , Jia Lin
Published: March 2023

Accumulating evidence has demonstrated the association between alcohol overconsumption and the development of insulin resistance. However, the underlying mechanisms are not completely understood. To investigate the requirement and sufficiency of hepatocyte toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in alcohol-induced insulin resistance, we used two mouse models (Tlr4fl/fl and Tlr4LoxTB) that allow ablation of TLR4 only in hepatocytes (Tlr4LKO) and restoration of endogenous TLR4 expression in hepatocytes on a TLR4-null background (Tlr4LoxTB × Alb-Cre), respectively. A Lieber-DeCarli feeding model was used to induce glucose intolerance and insulin resistance in mice. Glucose tolerance test, insulin tolerance test, and insulin signaling experiments were performed to examine systemic and tissue-specific insulin sensitivity. We found that alcohol-fed hepatocyte TLR4 deficient mice (Tlr4LKO) had lower blood glucose levels in response to intraperitoneal injection of insulin. Moreover, increased phosphorylation of glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK3β) was observed in the liver of Tlr4LKO mice after chronic alcohol intake. In contrast, when hepatic TLR4 was reactivated in mice (Tlr4LoxTB × Alb-Cre), alcohol feeding caused glucose intolerance in these mice compared with littermate controls (Tlr4LoxTB). In addition, AKT phosphorylation was dramatically reduced in the liver and epididymal white adipose tissue (eWAT) of alcohol-fed Tlr4LoxTB × Alb-Cre mice, which was similar to that of mice with whole-body TLR4 reactivation (Tlr4LoxTB × Zp3-Cre). Collectively, these findings suggest that hepatocyte TLR4 is both required and sufficient in the development of insulin resistance induced by alcohol overconsumption.
Protein Design Using Physics Informed Neural Networks
Authors: Omar Sara Ibrahim , Keasar Chen , Ben-Sasson Ariel J. , Haber Eldad
Published: March 2023

The inverse protein folding problem, also known as protein sequence design, seeks to predict an amino acid sequence that folds into a specific structure and performs a specific function. Recent advancements in machine learning techniques have been successful in generating functional sequences, outperforming previous energy function-based methods. However, these machine learning methods are limited in their interoperability and robustness, especially when designing proteins that must function under non-ambient conditions, such as high temperature, extreme pH, or in various ionic solvents. To address this issue, we propose a new Physics-Informed Neural Networks (PINNs)-based protein sequence design approach. Our approach combines all-atom molecular dynamics simulations, a PINNs MD surrogate model, and a relaxation of binary programming to solve the protein design task while optimizing both energy and the structural stability of proteins. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our design framework in designing proteins that can function under non-ambient conditions.
Cysteine Residues in Region 6 of the Plasmodium yoelii Erythrocyte-Binding-like Ligand That Are Related to Its Localization and the Course of Infection
Authors: Otsuki Hitoshi , Kaneko Osamu , Ito Daisuke , Kondo Yoko , Iriko Hideyuki , Ishino Tomoko , Tachibana Mayumi , Tsuboi Takafumi , Torii Motomi
Published: March 2023

Plasmodium malaria parasites use erythrocyte-binding-like (EBL) ligands to invade erythrocytes in their vertebrate host. EBLs are released from micronemes, which are secretory organelles located at the merozoite apical end and bind to erythrocyte surface receptors. Because of their essential nature, EBLs have been studied as vaccine candidates, such as the Plasmodium vivax Duffy binding protein. Previously, we showed through using the rodent malaria parasite Plasmodium yoelii that a single amino acid substitution within the EBL C-terminal Cys-rich domain (region 6) caused mislocalization of this molecule and resulted in alteration of the infection course and virulence between the non-lethal 17X and lethal 17XL strains. In the present study, we generated a panel of transgenic P. yoelii lines in which seven of the eight conserved Cys residues in EBL region 6 were independently substituted to Ala residues to observe the consequence of these substitutions with respect to EBL localization, the infection course, and virulence. Five out of seven transgenic lines showed EBL mislocalizations and higher parasitemias. Among them, three showed increased virulence, whereas the other two did not kill the infected mice. The remaining two transgenic lines showed low parasitemias similar to their parental 17X strain, and their EBL localizations did not change. The results indicate the importance of Cys residues in EBL region 6 for EBL localization, parasite infection course, and virulence and suggest an association between EBL localization and the parasite infection course.
Novel scFv against Notch Ligand JAG1 Suitable for Development of Cell Therapies toward JAG1-Positive Tumors
Authors: Silva Gabriela , Rodrigues Ana F. , Ferreira Susana , Matos Carolina , Eleutério Rute P. , Marques Gonçalo , Kucheryava Khrystyna , Lemos Ana R. , Sousa Pedro M. F. , Castro Rute , Barbas Ana , Simão Daniel , Alves Paula M.
Published: March 2023

The Notch signaling ligand JAG1 is overexpressed in various aggressive tumors and is associated with poor clinical prognosis. Hence, therapies targeting oncogenic JAG1 hold great potential for the treatment of certain tumors. Here, we report the identification of specific anti-JAG1 single-chain variable fragments (scFvs), one of them endowing chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells with cytotoxicity against JAG1-positive cells. Anti-JAG1 scFvs were identified from human phage display libraries, reformatted into full-length monoclonal antibodies (Abs), and produced in mammalian cells. The characterization of these Abs identified two specific anti-JAG1 Abs (J1.B5 and J1.F1) with nanomolar affinities. Cloning the respective scFv sequences in our second- and third-generation CAR backbones resulted in six anti-JAG1 CAR constructs, which were screened for JAG1-mediated T-cell activation in Jurkat T cells in coculture assays with JAG1-positive cell lines. Studies in primary T cells demonstrated that one CAR harboring the J1.B5 scFv significantly induced effective T-cell activation in the presence of JAG1-positive, but not in JAG1-knockout, cancer cells, and enabled specific killing of JAG1-positive cells. Thus, this new anti-JAG1 scFv represents a promising candidate for the development of cell therapies against JAG1-positive tumors.
Compounds Inhibiting Noppera-bo, a Glutathione S-transferase Involved in Insect Ecdysteroid Biosynthesis: Novel Insect Growth Regulators
Authors: Ebihara Kana , Niwa Ryusuke
Published: March 2023

Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) are conserved in a wide range of organisms, including insects. In 2014, an epsilon GST, known as Noppera-bo (Nobo), was shown to regulate the biosynthesis of ecdysteroid, the principal steroid hormone in insects. Studies on fruit flies, Drosophila melanogaster, and silkworms, Bombyx mori, demonstrated that loss-of-function mutants of nobo fail to synthesize ecdysteroid and die during development, consistent with the essential function of ecdysteroids in insect molting and metamorphosis. This genetic evidence suggests that chemical compounds that inhibit activity of Nobo could be insect growth regulators (IGRs) that kill insects by disrupting their molting and metamorphosis. In addition, because nobo is conserved only in Diptera and Lepidoptera, a Nobo inhibitor could be used to target IGRs in a narrow spectrum of insect taxa. Dipterans include mosquitoes, some of which are vectors of diseases such as malaria and dengue fever. Given that mosquito control is essential to reduce mosquito-borne diseases, new IGRs that specifically kill mosquito vectors are always in demand. We have addressed this issue by identifying and characterizing several chemical compounds that inhibit Nobo protein in both D. melanogaster and the yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti. In this review, we summarize our findings from the search for Nobo inhibitors.
Application of Biodegradable Magnesium Membrane Shield Technique for Immediate Dentoalveolar Bone Regeneration
Authors: Elad Akiva , Rider Patrick , Rogge Svenja , Witte Frank , Tadić Dražen , Kačarević Željka Perić , Steigmann Larissa
Published: March 2023

For the first time, the clinical application of the first CE registered magnesium membrane is reported. Due to the material characteristics of magnesium metal, new treatment methodologies become possible. This has led to the development of a new technique: the magnesium membrane shield technique, used to rebuild the buccal or palatal walls of compromised extraction sockets. Four clinical cases are reported, demonstrating the handling options of this new technique for providing a successful regenerative outcome. Using the technique, immediate implant placement is possible with a provisional implant in the aesthetic zone. It can also be used for rebuilding both the buccal and palatal walls simultaneously. For instances where additional mechanical support is required, the membrane can be bent into a double layer, which additionally provides a rounder edge for interfacing with the soft tissue. In all reported clinical cases, there was a good bone tissue regeneration and soft tissue healing. In some instances, the new bone had formed a thick cortical bone visible in cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) radiographs of the regenerated sites, which is known to be remodeled in the post treatment period. Overall, the magnesium membrane shield technique is presented as an alternative treatment option for compromised extraction sockets.
Human Plasma Xanthine Oxidoreductase Activity in Cardiovascular Disease: Evidence from a Population-Based Study
Authors: Kotozaki Yuka , Satoh Mamoru , Nasu Takahito , Tanno Kozo , Tanaka Fumitaka , Sasaki Makoto
Published: March 2023

Xanthine oxidoreductase (XOR) and its products contribute to the development of chronic inflammation and oxidative stress. Excessive XOR activity is believed to promote inflammatory responses and atherosclerotic plaque formation, which are major cardiovascular risk factors. The mechanisms of XOR activity in the development and progression of cardiovascular disease (CVD), coupled with the complexity of the relationship between XOR activity and the biological effects of uric acid; reactive oxygen species; and nitric oxide, which are the major products of XOR activity, have long been debated, but have not yet been clearly elucidated. Recently, a system for measuring highly sensitive XOR activity in human plasma was established, and there has been progress in the research on the mechanisms of XOR activity. In addition, there are accumulating findings about the relationship between XOR activity and CVD. In this narrative review, we summarize existing knowledge regarding plasma XOR activity and its relationship with CVD and discuss future perspectives.
Label-Free Electrochemical Biosensor Platforms for Cancer Diagnosis: Recent Achievements and Challenges
Authors: Sanko Vildan , Kuralay Filiz
Published: March 2023

With its fatal effects, cancer is still one of the most important diseases of today’s world. The underlying fact behind this scenario is most probably due to its late diagnosis. That is why the necessity for the detection of different cancer types is obvious. Cancer studies including cancer diagnosis and therapy have been one of the most laborious tasks. Since its early detection significantly affects the following therapy steps, cancer diagnosis is very important. Despite researchers’ best efforts, the accurate and rapid diagnosis of cancer is still challenging and difficult to investigate. It is known that electrochemical techniques have been successfully adapted into the cancer diagnosis field. Electrochemical sensor platforms that are brought together with the excellent selectivity of biosensing elements, such as nucleic acids, aptamers or antibodies, have put forth very successful outputs. One of the remarkable achievements of these biomolecule-attached sensors is their lack of need for additional labeling steps, which bring extra burdens such as interference effects or demanding modification protocols. In this review, we aim to outline label-free cancer diagnosis platforms that use electrochemical methods to acquire signals. The classification of the sensing platforms is generally presented according to their recognition element, and the most recent achievements by using these attractive sensing substrates are described in detail. In addition, the current challenges are discussed.