bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcriptomics of developing wild sunflower seeds from the extreme ends of a latitudinal gradient differing in seed oil composition
Authors: Barnhart Max H. , McAssey Edward V. , Dittmar Emily L. , Burke John M.
Published: July 2022

Seed oil composition, an important agronomic trait in cultivated sunflower, varies latitudinally across the native range of its wild progenitor. This pattern is thought to be driven by selection for a higher proportion of saturated fatty acids in southern populations compared with northern populations, likely due to the different temperatures experienced during seed germination. To investigate whether these differences in fatty acid composition between northern and southern populations correspond to transcriptional variation in the expression of genes involved in fatty acid metabolism, we sequenced RNA from developing seeds of sunflowers from Texas, USA, and Saskatchewan, Canada (the extreme ends of sunflower's latitudinal range) grown in a common garden. We found 4,741 genes to be differentially expressed between Texas and Canada, including several genes involved in lipid metabolism. Several differentially expressed lipid metabolism genes also colocalized with known oil quantitative trait loci (QTL). The genes producing stearoyl‐ACP‐desaturases (SAD) were of particular interest because of their known role in the conversion of fully saturated into unsaturated fatty acids. Two SAD genes were more highly expressed in seeds from Canadian populations, consistent with the observation of increased levels of unsaturated fatty acids in seeds from that region. We also constructed a gene co‐expression network to investigate regional variation in network modules. The results of this analysis revealed regional differentiation for eight of 12 modules but no clear relationship with oil biosynthesis. Overall, the differential expression of SAD genes offers a partial explanation for the observed differences in seed oil composition between Texas and Canada, while the expression patterns of other metabolic genes suggest complex regulation of fatty acid production and usage across latitudes.
Application Progress of Green Carbon Dots in Analysis and Detection
Authors: Ma Peirong , Zuo Jiale , Li Zheng , Xiao Douxin , Wu Haixia , Zhang Yanling , Dong Alideertu
Published: July 2022

Green chemistry is currently attracting more and more attention due to its eco‐friendly, and green carbon dots (g‐CDs) are creating a research boom. The g‐CDs have huge application prospects in analysis and detection due to their excellent optical properties, high biocompatibility, and low toxicity compared to other fluorescent materials. Based on the study of g‐CDs, the optical properties, synthesis methods, surface modification methods, and sensing mechanisms of g‐CDs are outlined, and the application in analysis and detection of environmental, food, biomolecules, and other organic small molecules are reviewed. At the same time, the challenges faced by g‐CDs are outlined. This review provides valuable references for further research and wider application of g‐CDs.
In Situ Laser Light Scattering for Temporally and Locally Resolved Studies on Nanoparticle Trapping in a Gas Aggregation Source
Authors: Drewes Jonas , Rehders Stefan , Strunskus Thomas , Kersten Holger , Faupel Franz , Vahl Alexander
Published: July 2022

Gas phase synthesis of nanoparticles (NPs) via magnetron sputtering in a gas aggregation source (GAS) has become a well‐established method since its conceptualization three decades ago. NP formation is commonly described in terms of nucleation, growth, and transport alongside the gas stream. However, the NP formation and transport involve complex non‐equilibrium processes, which are still the subject of investigation. The development of in situ investigation techniques such as UV–Vis spectroscopy and small angle X‐ray scattering enabled further insights into the dynamic processes inside the GAS and have recently revealed NP trapping at different distances from the magnetron source. The main drawback of these techniques is their limited spatial resolution. To understand the spatio‐temporal behavior of NP trapping, an in situ laser light scattering technique is applied in this study. By this approach, silver NPs are made visible inside the GAS with good spatial and temporal resolution. It is found that the argon gas pressure, as well as different gas inlet configurations, have a strong impact on the trapping behavior of NPs inside the GAS. The different gas inlet configurations not only affect the trapping of NPs, but also the size distribution and deposition rate of NPs.
Silver oxide nanostructures as a new trend to control strawberry charcoal rot induced by Macrophomina phaseolina
Authors: Derbalah Aly , Essa Tarek , Kamel Said Mohamed , Omara Reda Ibrahim , Abdelfatah Mahmoud , Elshaer Abdelhamed , Elsharkawy Mohsen Mohamed
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND

Silver oxide (Ag2O) nanostructures were fabricated and their ability to induce antifungal activity against Macrophomina phaseolina, which causes charcoal rot disease in strawberries, was evaluated under laboratory, greenhouse and field conditions. A real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to monitor expression of defense‐related genes, which is essential to evaluate the potential of the manufactured nanoparticles to promote strawberry resistance against charcoal rot. The effect of Ag2O nanoparticles on growth characteristics in strawberry plants was also studied.

RESULTS

The results showed that Ag2O significantly inhibited M. phaseolina growth compared with untreated controls under in vitro conditions. Strawberry plants treated with Ag2O showed a significant decrease in the severity of charcoal rot disease in the greenhouse compared with untreated plants. Strawberry plants treated with Ag2O nanoparticles expressed defense gene (PR‐1) involved in the salicylic acid signaling pathways at levels three to five times higher than in the control group. Ag2O nanoparticles significantly improved the growth and yield of the strawberry crop.

CONCLUSION

Use of Ag2O nanoparticles can be considered a new strategy to control M. phaseolina and this is the first report of this effect. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Herbicide use in conventional cereal production in northern Greece: An appraisal through the theory of planned behavior
Authors: Damalas Christos A. , Koutroubas Spyridon D. , Abdollahzadeh Gholamhossein
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND

Herbicides are the major method of weed control in most conventional cropping systems, but what affects farmers' intention to use herbicides has not been studied extensively. This study examined herbicide use among cereal farmers of northern Greece and tested for the first time whether the theory of planned behavior (TPB) can explain farmers' behavior in the adoption of herbicide use.

RESULTS

Most farmers showed favorable attitudes towards herbicide use (71.2%), high levels of perceived behavioral control (PBC) of herbicide use (62.4%), and positive intention to use herbicides (67.6%). By contrast, most farmers (60.4%) were negative in following the advice of others in the adoption of herbicides. Finally, most farmers (82.8%) used herbicides in cereal production. The TPB explained 47.6% of the variation in farmers' intention to use herbicides. Logistic regression showed that intention and PBC positively affected (P < 0.01) farmers' behavior in herbicide use, explaining 45.8–76.2% of the variation in farmers' behavior. Path analysis showed that attitudes, subjective norms, and PBC had a direct impact on intention. Gender had an indirect impact on intention through PBC, while age and farming as a main profession had an indirect impact on intention through attitudes and subjective norms. Furthermore, education had an indirect impact on intention through attitudes and PBC.

CONCLUSION

Farmers' intentions and behavior in the use of herbicides in cereal production could be explained by the TPB. Attitudes showed the strongest total effect on the intention to use herbicides. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Reproductive attributes and functional response ofAnastatus japonicuson eggs ofAntheraea pernyi, a factitious host
Authors: Mi Qian‐Qian , Zhang Jin‐Ping , Ali Muhammad Yasir , Zhong Yong‐Zhi , Mills Nicholas J , Li Dun‐Song , Lei Yu‐Ming , Zhang Feng
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND

Anastatus japonicusAshmead (Hymenoptera: Eupelmidae) is a solitary egg endoparasitoid that has been studied for inundative biological control ofHalyomorpha halysStål (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) in China. In this study, we assessed the reproductive attributes and functional response ofAnastatus japonicuson a factitious host,Antheraea pernyi(Guérin‐Méneville) (Lepidoptera: Anthelidae) at 25 ± 1 °C, 70 ± 5% relative humidity and 16 h:8 h light/dark photoperiod.

RESULTS

The mean lifetime fecundity ofAnastatus japonicusfemales was 404.3 progeny produced over an average oviposition period of 42.3 days. The sex ratio of adult progeny was slightly male biased (51.2%), whereas more female progeny were produced before day 20 of a female's life. Single 1‐day‐old matedAnastatus japonicusfemales exhibited a type II functional response to increasing host densities (1–50 eggs), with an inverse host density‐dependent pattern of percent parasitism. The upper limit to the daily attack rate was estimated as 7.6Antheraea pernyieggs. Furthermore, mutual interference amongAnastatus japonicusfemales occurred when increasing densities of parasitoids (1, 2, 4, 8, 16) were exposed to 30 host eggs.

CONCLUSION

Laboratory functional response result revealed that individualAnastatus japonicusmight be unable to respond effectively to increasing host density in the field, which could be compensated by releasing larger numbers of wasps. Strong mutual interference among foragingAnastatus japonicusfemales should be considered in any future inundative biological control programs for the sustainable management ofHalyomorpha halysor other host insect pests. © 2022 The Authors.Pest Management Sciencepublished by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Fungicides have transgenerational effects on Rhopalosiphum padi but not their endosymbionts
Authors: Chirgwin Evatt , Yang Qiong , Umina Paul A , Gill Alex , Soleimannejad Safi , Gu Xinyue , Ross Perran , Hoffmann Ary A
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND

While several agricultural fungicides are known to directly affect invertebrate pests, including aphids, the mechanisms involved are often unknown. One hypothesis is that fungicides with antibacterial activity suppress bacterial endosymbionts present in aphids which are important for aphid survival. Endosymbiont‐related effects are expected to be transgenerational, given that these bacteria are maternally inherited. Here, we test for these associations using three fungicides (chlorothalonil, pyraclostrobin and trifloxystrobin) against the bird cherry‐oat aphid, Rhopalosiphum padi, using a microinjected strain that carried both the primary endosymbiont Buchnera and the secondary endosymbiont Rickettsiella.

RESULTS

We show that the fungicide chlorothalonil did not cause an immediate effect on aphid survival, whereas both strobilurin fungicides (pyraclostrobin and trifloxystrobin) decreased survival after 48 h exposure. However, chlorothalonil substantially reduced the lifespan and fecundity of the F1 generation. Trifloxystrobin also reduced the lifespan and fecundity of F1 offspring, however, pyraclostrobin did not affect these traits. None of the fungicides consistently altered the density of Buchnera or Rickettsiella in whole aphids.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest fungicides have sublethal impacts on R. padi that are not fully realized until the generation after exposure, and these sublethal impacts are not associated with the density of endosymbionts harbored by R. padi. However, we cannot rule out other effects of fungicides on endosymbionts that might influence fitness, like changes in their tissue distribution. We discuss these results within the context of fungicidal effects on aphid suppression across generations and point to potential field applications. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Review on the Microstructure of Ferroelectric Hafnium Oxides
Authors: Lederer Maximilian , Lehninger David , Ali Tarek , Kämpfe Thomas
Published: July 2022

Ferroelectric hafnium oxide is of major interest for a multitude of applications in microelectronics, ranging from neuromorphic devices to actuators and sensors. While the electrical performance is commonly discussed in depth, the influence of the microstructure is often disregarded. However, in recent years, more research groups shed light into the microstructural background of ferroelectric behavior in hafnium oxide films. To give a more general and complete picture of the different influences on the microstructure and its relevance for the applications, the process and stack influences on the microstructure are reviewed and summarized. While a few mechanisms are not yet understood in depth, a coherent picture on the formation of the microstructure in ferroelectric hafnium oxide layers can be gained.
Ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography combined with electrospray ionization quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry and molecular networking analysis to investigate the chemodiversity of bioactive extracts of Annona jahnii Saff. fungi from the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Xavier Luciana Araújo , do Nascimento Odilair Letícia Maciel , de Sousa Gilmara Prado , Souza Edineide Cristina A. , Pilau Eduardo Jorge , Porto Carla , de Souza Antônia Queiroz Lima , de Souza Afonso Duarte Leão , Flach Adriana , da Costa Luiz Antonio M. A.
Published: July 2022

Rationale

Annona species are of interest for the isolation of bioactive molecules; however, studies of Annona jahnii Saff. are limited. The exploration of bioactive metabolites of endophytes isolated from this species is unprecedented and allows the preservation of the host plant, in addition to enabling the discovery of compounds with promising biological activities.

Methods

Ethyl acetate extracts from the cultured media of five fungi were obtained. The antioxidant capacity of the extracts was measured using the 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl free radical method. Antimicrobial activity was determined using the microdilution method in broth in 96‐well plates. The exploration of the metabolic profile of the extracts and dereplication of the compounds were performed using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization/tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC/ESI‐MS/MS) combined with analysis using molecular networking (MN).

Results

A total of 1818 MS features were detected in the five selected extracts, of which 39 compounds were putatively identified. The secondary metabolites with the highest abundance were alkaloids, naphthopyrons, and cytochalasins. Other secondary metabolites include fumonisins, coumarin, and a meroterpenoid. Most of these compounds are related to specific biological properties such as antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, and antitumor activities. Extracts F398 and F403 showed inhibitory activity of the four pathogens tested. Extracts F475 and F506 did not inhibit the growth of Staphylococcus aureus, and F407 did not inhibit the growth of Escherichia coli in addition to having potent antioxidant activity, with IC50 values of 10 μg/mL or less.

Conclusions

The use of UHPLC/ESI‐MS/MS data combined with MN proved useful in the dereplication of bioactive molecules of complex extracts that are still unexplored. These initial investigations should significantly assist in further research and increase the efficiency and speed in the discovery of new sources of secondary metabolites and new natural products.
Biomimetic Vasculatures by 3D‐Printed Porous Molds
Authors: Ching Terry , Vasudevan Jyothsna , Chang Shu‐Yung , Tan Hsih Yin , Sargur Ranganath Anupama , Lim Chwee Teck , Fernandez Javier G. , Ng Jun Jie , Toh Yi‐Chin , Hashimoto Michinao
Published: July 2022

Despite recent advances in biofabrication, recapitulating complex architectures of cell‐laden vascular constructs remains challenging. To date, biofabricated vascular models have not yet realized four fundamental attributes of native vasculatures simultaneously: freestanding, branching, multilayered, and perfusable. In this work, a microfluidics‐enabled molding technique combined with coaxial bioprinting to fabricate anatomically relevant, cell‐laden vascular models consisting of hydrogels is developed. By using 3D porous molds of poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate as casting templates that gradually release calcium ions as a crosslinking agent, freestanding, and perfusable vascular constructs of complex geometries are fabricated. The bioinks can be tailored to improve the compatibility with specific vascular cells and to tune the mechanical modulus mimicking native blood vessels. Crucially, the integration of relevant vascular cells (such as smooth muscle cells and endothelial cells) in a multilayer and biomimetic configuration is highlighted. It is also demonstrated that the fabricated freestanding vessels are amenable for testing percutaneous coronary interventions (i.e., drug‐eluting balloons and stents) under physiological mechanical states such as stretching and bending. Overall, a versatile fabrication technique with multifaceted possibilities of generating biomimetic vascular models that can benefit future research in mechanistic understanding of cardiovascular diseases and the development of therapeutic interventions is introduced.
Building empirical knowledge on the relationship between code smells and design patterns: An exploratory study
Authors: Santos José Amancio M. , Petronilo Gadiel Xavier Antunes
Published: July 2022

Code smell is a concept describing potential problems in software design. In opposition, design pattern describes good design solutions in terms of maintainability and reusability. Code smell and design pattern might be perceived as metaphors supporting software design activity in terms of understanding and communication. However, empirical evaluation is needed to investigate their effect in terms of programming activity. Our objective is to build empirical knowledge on the relationship between code smells and design patterns. We carried out an exploratory study based on mining software repositories and in a baseline study addressing software evolution. In total, we analyzed 61 software. Their classes were identified as linked to both code smells and design patterns metaphors. Then, we analyzed the co‐occurrence of these metaphors. Our findings indicate that the relationship between smells and design patterns is software dependent. Some software present many smells linked to design patterns while for other software, smelly classes are not linked to design patterns. We also found that the instability metric weakly reflects this idea. Our study supports better understanding of the topic. It presents results in the opposite direction of expectations that the presence of smells is correlated with the absence of design patterns and vice versa.
Magnesium Phosphate Bioceramics for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Bavya Devi K. , Lalzawmliana V. , Saidivya Maktumkari , Kumar Vinod , Roy Mangal , Kumar Nandi Samit
Published: July 2022

Magnesium phosphate (MgP) is a family of newly developed resorbable bioceramics for bone tissue engineering. Although calcium phosphates (CaP) are the most commonly used bioceramics, low solubility, and slow degradation, when implanted in vivo, are their main drawbacks. Magnesium (Mg) is an essential element in the human body as it plays important role in bone metabolism, DNA stabilization, and skeletal development. Recent research on magnesium phosphates has established their higher degradability, in vitro, and in vivo biocompatibility. Compared to CaP, very limited research work has been found in the area of MgP. The prime goal of this review is to bring out the importance of magnesium phosphate ceramics for biomedical applications. In this review, we have discussed the synthesis methods, mechanical properties, in vitro and in vivo biocompatibility of MgP bioceramics. Moreover, we have highlighted the recent developments in metal ion‐doped MgPs and MgP scaffolds for bone tissue engineering.
Electrochemical Nitrogen Reduction to Ammonia Under Ambient Conditions: Stakes and Challenges
Authors: Smita Biswas Suchi , Chakraborty Soumita , Saha Arunava , Eswaramoorthy Muthusamy
Published: July 2022

Aqueous electrochemical nitrogen reduction (ENR) to ammonia (NH3) under ambient conditions is considered as an alternative to the energy‐intensive Haber‐Bosch process for ammonia production. Many metal, non‐metal, carbon‐based materials along with metal‐chalcogenides, metal‐nitrides have been explored for their ENR activity. The reported NH3 production through ENR is still in the micro‐gram level and often falls in the range of NH3 and NOx contaminations from the surrounding. The quantification of NH3 at very low concentration possess enormous challenge in this field and thus many reported ENR electrocatalysts suffer from reproducibility issue. This review highlights in detail the challenges associated with ENR in aqueous medium and necessitates standardization of protocols to quantify the low concentration of NH3 free of false‐positives. It concludes the prospects of electrochemical NH3 production through lithium‐mediated N2 reduction.
OrthoC−H Functionalizations of 2‐Aryl‐2H‐Indazoles
Authors: Ghosh Sumit , Pyne Pranjal , Ghosh Anogh , Hajra Alakananda
Published: July 2022

C−H Functionalization is ubiquitously considered as a powerful, efficient and handy tool for installing various functional groups in complex organic heterocycles in an easier and step‐economic way. Similarly, indazole is endowed as a potent heterocycle and is eminent for its profound impact in biological, medicinal and industrial chemistry. In this scenario, C−H functionalization at the selectiveorthoposition of 2‐arylindazole in assistance of a metal catalyst is also becoming an appealing approach in synthetic organic chemistry. This review addressed the recent findings and developments onorthoC−H functionalization of 2‐aryl‐2H‐indazazoles with literature coverage extending from 2018 to May 2022.
A natural halogenated fluoride adenosine analog 5′‐fluorodeoxy adenosine induced anticolon cancer activity in vivo and in vitro
Authors: Ma Long , Liu Taohua , Lu Yingying , Dong Yanan , Zhao Xia , Man Shuli
Published: July 2022

Adenosine (ADO) and its analogs have been introduced into the anticancer clinical trials, especial for the ADO derivatives with fluoride. The biosynthesis of fluorinase produces a fluorine‐containing ADO analog 5′‐fluorodeoxy adenosine (5′‐FDA). The toxicity and application of 5′‐FDA has not been evaluated, which limits the application of ADO analogs. In order to study its potential mechanism, we carried out the following experiments. In our research, 5′‐FDA displayed good antitumor activity in colon cancer cells and two colon cancer models. As a result, 5′‐FDA concentration‐dependently inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion in colon cancer cells through its proapoptosis and cell cycle arrest pathway. Furthermore, 5′‐FDA inhibited the growth of colon cancer and its pulmonary metastasis in CT26 inbred mice without affecting their body weight. It was found that 5′‐FDA remarkably increased the protein levels of Caspase 3 and cleaved‐Caspase 9 and decreased Cyclin A2 and CDK2 via the regulation of p53 signaling pathway, and increased the protein levels of Caspase 8 and cleaved‐Caspase 8 which participated in apoptosis pathway. All in all, 5′‐FDA displayed excellent therapeutic effects on colon cancer and its pulmonary metastasis. We believed that our study provided a theoretical basis for further preclinical research of 5′‐FDA in the treatment of cancer.
A strip with constant stresses on the cut: Exact solutions
Authors: Kovalenko Mikhail D. , Menshova Irina V. , Kerzhaev Alexander P. , Yu Guangming
Published: July 2022

We construct exact solutions of three boundary value problems in the theory of elasticity for an infinite strip with a central transverse cut on which constant normal stresses are specified (even‐symmetric deformation). We consider three variants of homogeneous boundary conditions on the strip sides: (1) free sides, (2) firmly clamped sides, and (3) there are identical stiffeners on the strip sides. The solutions of all problems are represented as series in Papkovich–Fadle eigenfunctions whose coefficients are determined from simple closed formulas.
Migration Studies with a Compositional Data Approach: A Case Study of Population Structure in the Capital Region of Denmark
Authors: Elío Javier , Georgati Marina , Hansen Henning S. , Keßler Carsten
Published: July 2022

Computing percentages or proportions for removing the influence of population density has recently gained popularity, as it offers a deep insight into compositional variability. However, data are constrained to a constant sum and therefore are not independent observations, a fundamental limitation for applying standard multivariate statistical tools. Compositional Data (CoDa) techniques address the issue of standard statistical tools being insufficient for the analysis of closed data (i.e., spurious correlations, predictions outside the range, and sub-compositional incoherence) but they are not widely used in the field of population geography. Hence, in this article, we present a case study where we analyse at parish level the spatial distribution of Danes, Western migrants and non-Western migrants in the Capital region of Denmark. By applying CoDa techniques, we have been able to identify the spatial population segregation in the area and we have recognised patterns in the distribution of various demographic groups that can be used for interpreting housing prices variations. Our exercise is a basic example of the potentials of CoDa techniques which generate more robust and reliable results than standard statistical procedures in order to interpret the relations among various demographic groups. It can be further generalised to other population datasets with more complex structures.
Stellungnahme zu Acetaldehyd als Aromastoff: Aspekte der Risikobewertung
Authors: Hengstler Jan G. , Baum Matthias , Cartus Alexander T. , Diel Patrick , Eisenbrand Gerhard , Engel Karl-Heinz , Engeli Barbara , Epe Bernd , Grune Tilman , Guth Sabine , Haller Dirk , Heinz Volker , Hellwig Michael , Henle Thomas , Humpf Hans-Ulrich , Jäger Henry , Joost Hans-Georg , Kulling Sabine E. , Lachenmeier Dirk W. , Lampen Alfonso , Leist Marcel , Mally Angela , Marko Doris , Nöthlings Ute , Röhrdanz Elke , Roth Angelika , Spranger Joachim , Stadler Richard , Steinberg Pablo , Vieths Stefan , Wätjen Wim
Published: July 2022

Opinion on acetaldehyde as a flavouring substance: considerations for risk assessment

Acetaldehyde occurs naturally in many foods and is also used as a flavouring due to its fruity aroma. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified acetaldehyde as possibly carcinogenic to humans and, in combination with oral intake via alcoholic beverages, as carcinogenic to humans. Therefore, the question arises whether the use of acetaldehyde as a flavouring agent is still justifiable. The Senate Commission on Food Safety (SKLM) of the German Research Foundation (DFG) reviewed the scientific basis for health risk assessment of the use of acetaldehyde as a flavouring substance and adopted an opinion. Based on the available data, it is at present not possible to conclude if acetaldehyde is genotoxic and mutagenic in vivo after oral exposure. There is also uncertainty regarding the contribution of acetaldehyde as a flavouring substance to the overall exposure to acetaldehyde. Therefore, a science-based assessment on health risk related to the use of acetaldehyde as a flavouring is not possible at present. Considering the genotoxic potential as well as numerous data gaps that need to be closed for a full risk assessment, the SKLM is concerned about the safety of acetaldehyde as a flavouring substance. For reasons of precautionary consumer protection, the SKLM considers that the use of acetaldehyde as a food additive should be re-evaluated.
Moxifloxacin rescues SMA phenotypes in patient-derived cells and animal model
Authors: Januel Camille , Menduti Giovanna , Mamchaoui Kamel , Martinat Cecile , Artero Ruben , Konieczny Piotr , Boido Marina
Published: July 2022

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a genetic disease resulting in the loss of α-motoneurons followed by muscle atrophy. It is caused by knock-out mutations in thesurvival of motor neuron 1(SMN1) gene, which has an unaffected, but due to preferential exon 7 skipping, only partially functional human-specificSMN2copy. We previously described aDrosophila-based screening of FDA-approved drugs that led us to discover moxifloxacin. We showed its positive effect on theSMN2exon 7 splicing in SMA patient-derived skin cells and its ability to increase the SMN protein level. Here, we focus on moxifloxacin's therapeutic potential in additional SMA cellular and animal models. We demonstrate that moxifloxacin rescues the SMA-related molecular and phenotypical defects in muscle cells and motoneurons by improving theSMN2splicing. The consequent increase of SMN levels was higher than in case of risdiplam, a potent exon 7 splicing modifier, and exceeded the threshold necessary for a survival improvement. We also demonstrate that daily subcutaneous injections of moxifloxacin in a severe SMA murine model reduces its characteristic neuroinflammation and increases the SMN levels in various tissues, leading to improved motor skills and extended lifespan. We show that moxifloxacin, originally used as an antibiotic, can be potentially repositioned for the SMA treatment.
Control design of a reciprocating high-speed wire feed system for 7-axis robotic electric discharge machining
Authors: Almeida Sergio , Mo John , Ding Songlin , Bil Cees
Published: July 2022

For decades, researchers have struggled to solve 6-axis robotic vibration while machining hard-to-cut materials. On the other hand, wire electric discharge machining (WEDM) stands out as a non-conventional machining process able to cut large and complex profiles of any conductive hard-to-cut material with minor non-contact forces. Thus, WEDM is a promising process to be combined into a robot to overcome vibration and low accuracy. However, the robot characteristics of a high degree of freedom combined with payload limitation oblige to separate the heavy wire winding system from the robot end-effector, demanding an equally high degree of freedom and unconventional solutions to feed and control the wire electrode. This study designs and reports experimental findings of the first robotic WEDM apparatus based on a high-speed winding system with 600 m of wire length, capable of controlling the wire speed from 1 to 10 m/s and wire tension from 0.1 to 10 N. The system adopts flexible outer cases to travel and reciprocate the wire into a 7-axis robotic system composed of a 6-axis robot and an external rotating axis. The proposed design is a highly dynamic process whose wire tension and speed are achieved by a hybrid controller to cope with the non-linear relation of speed and tension provided by the magnetic clutch. It combines a regression open-loop control for optimality and wire breakage avoidance with a closed-loop control to guarantee admissibility while coping with wire friction disturbances. The findings review a novel wire winding system capable of controlling usual wire disturbance and stepped surface of reciprocating high-speed WEDM as well as additional friction and elastic behaviour of the flexible case, delivering wire tension of ± 12% along with stable EDM process and uniform surface roughness between wire reciprocation areas with a Ra of 2.94 μm. Potential adoption of the method can finally make 6-axis robots a feasible and advantageous technique compared to computer numeric control (CNC) while shaping monolithic and complex workpieces of conductive and hard-to-cut materials.
The isogeometric collocated contact surface approach
Authors: Fahrendorf Frederik , De Lorenzis Laura
Published: July 2022

We propose a frictionless contact formulation for isogeometric analysis, which combines a collocated formulation for the contact surfaces with a standard Galerkin treatment of the bulk. We denote it as isogeometric Collocated Contact Surface (CCS) formulation. The approach is based on a simple pointwise enforcement of the contact constraints, performed in this study with the penalty method. Unlike pointwise (node-to-surface or point-to-surface) contact algorithms in the Galerkin framework, the CCS formulation passes the contact patch test to machine precision by naturally exploiting the favorable properties of isogeometric collocation. Compared with approaches where the discretization of both bulk and contact surfaces is based on collocation, the CCS approach does not need enhancements to remove oscillations for highly non-uniform meshes. With respect to integral contact approaches, the CCS algorithm is less computationally expensive, due to the reduced amount of contact evaluation points. In addition, the CCS approach is easy to code and can be added to a pre-existing isogeometric analysis code with minimal effort. Numerical examples in both small and large deformations are investigated to compare the CCS approach with some available contact formulations and to demonstrate its accuracy.
Black hole algorithm with convolutional neural networks for the creation of brain-computer interface based in visual perception and visual imagery
Authors: Llorella Fabio R. , Azorín José M. , Patow Gustavo
Published: July 2022

Non-invasive brain-computer interfaces can be implemented through different paradigms, the most used one being motor imagery and evoked potentials, although recently there has been an interest in paradigms based on perception and visual imagery. Following this approach, this work demonstrates the classification of visual imagery, visual perception and also the possibility of knowledge transfer between these two domains from EEG signals using convolutional neural networks. Also, we propose an adequate framework for such classification, which uses convolutional neural networks and the black hole heuristic algorithm for the search for optimal neural network structures.
Postoperative results and complications of fecal diversion for anorectal Crohn’s disease
Authors: Kuroki Hirosuke , Sugita Akira , Koganei Kazutaka , Tatsumi Kenji , Nakao Eiichi , Obara Nao
Published: July 2022

Purpose

Fecal diversion is a less-invasive technique that can alleviate symptoms in patients with refractory anorectal Crohn’s disease. However, complications, including recurrence of residual anorectal Crohn’s disease, may develop. We aimed to evaluate the postoperative results and complications associated with fecal diversion in patients with refractory anorectal Crohn’s disease.

Methods

We enrolled 1218 Crohn’s disease patients who underwent laparotomy at our institute. We retrospectively analyzed the clinical features of 174 patients who underwent fecal diversion for refractory anorectal Crohn’s disease, complications of the diverted colorectum, and the incidence and risk factors for proctectomy after fecal diversion.

Results

After fecal diversion, 74% of patients showed improved symptoms. However, bowel continuity restoration was successful in four patients (2.2%), and anorectal Crohn’s disease recurred in all patients. Seventeen patients developed cancer with a poor prognosis. The rate of conversion to proctectomy after fecal diversion was 41.3%, and the risk factors included rectal involvement (p = 0.02), loop-type stoma (p < 0.01), and the absence of treatment with biologics after fecal diversion (p = 0.03).

Conclusion

Fecal diversion for refractory anorectal Crohn’s disease can improve clinical symptoms. Patients with rectal involvement or loop-type stoma have a greater risk of requiring proctectomy following fecal diversion. The administration of biologic may decrease the rate of proctectomy.
Mineral Composition and Grain Size Effects on the Fracture and Acoustic Emission (AE) Characteristics of Rocks Under Compressive and Tensile Stress
Authors: Du Kun , Sun Yu , Zhou Jian , Khandelwal Manoj , Gong Fengqiang
Published: July 2022

The influence of rock mineral composition and mineral grain size on basic rock strength performance and AE characteristics have been studied, 13 different rocks microstructures are analyzed in an optical microscope thin section using petrographic image analysis, making it possible to determine the mineral composition and mineral texture characteristics of rocks. Then, the basic strength parameters of rock and AE signals generated during fracture propagation were obtained by UCT (uniaxial compression test) and BIT (Brazilian intension test). Finally, the relationship between basic strength parameters and AE characteristics of rock with mineral composition and grain size was analyzed. The results showed that different mineral constituents have significant effects on rock strength. The positive influence of plagioclase content on igneous strength was obtained. Sedimentary rocks strength increases initially and then decreases with the increase of plagioclase content. Besides, with the increase in quartz and K-feldspar content, the strength of the rock was weakened obviously. It is also found that the greater the dimensional deviation of mineral grain, the greater the strength of the rock. The strength of igneous rocks was inversely proportional to the mineral grain size, but there is no correlation between the sedimentary rocks strength and the mineral grain size. Furthermore, the tension–shear crack propagation of rock can effectively distinguish by judging that the data set of the AF–RA density graph was nearby the AF axis or RA axis and the peak frequency data sets of below 100 kHz or more than. Alterations in the rock nature are the main key reasons for the differences between AE hit rate, AE count rate, AE energy, and cumulative energy. The plagioclase content and grain size play a decisive role in AE signal characteristics and failure mode.
Training in virtual reality enables learning of a complex sports movement
Authors: Pastel Stefan , Petri K. , Chen C. H. , Wiegand Cáceres Ana Milena , Stirnatis M. , Nübel C. , Schlotter L. , Witte K.
Published: July 2022

Despite the increased use in sports, it is still unclear to what extent VR training tools can be applied for motor learning of complex movements. Previous VR studies primarily relate to realize performances rather than learning motor skills. Therefore, the current study compared VR with video training realizing the acquisition of karate technique, the Soto Uke moving forward in Zenkutsu Dachi, without being accompanied by a trainer or partner. Further analyses showed whether a less lavished forearm compared to a whole-body visualization in VR is necessary to acquire movements’ basics sufficiently. Four groups were tested: 2 groups conducted VR training (VR-WB: whole-body visualization, and VR-FA having only visualized the forearms), the third group passed through a video-based learning method (VB), and the control group (C) had no intervention. In consultation with karate experts, a scoring system was developed to determine the movements’ quality divided, into upper- and lower body performance and the fist pose. The three-way ANOVA with repeated measurements, including the between-subject factor group [VR-WB, VR-FA, VB, C] and the within-subject factors time [pre, post, retention] and body regions [upper body, lower body, fist pose], shows that all groups improved significantly (except for C) with the similar course after four training sessions in all body regions. Accordingly, VR training seems to be as effective as video training, and the transfer from VR-adapted skills into the natural environment was equally sufficient, although presenting different body visualization types. Further suggestions are made related to the features of future VR training simulations.
High rate of missed Barrett’s esophagus when screening with forceps biopsies
Authors: Singer Mendel E. , Odze Robert D.
Published: July 2022

Background

Screening for Barrett’s esophagus (BE) with endoscopy plus forceps biopsy (FB) has poor compliance with the recommended Seattle protocol and fails to sample large areas of mucosa. This statistical modeling study estimates, for the first time, the actual frequency of missed BE cases by FB.

Methods

Published, calibrated models in the literature were combined to calculate the age-specific prevalence of BE in white males with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). We started with estimates of the prevalence of BE and GERD, and applied the relative risk for BE in patients with GERD based on the literature. This created estimates of the true prevalence of BE in white males with GERD by decade of life. The proportion of BE missed was calculated as the difference between the prevalence and the proportion with a positive screen.

Results

The prevalence of BE in white males with GERD was 8.9%, 12.1%, 15.3%, 18.7% and 22.0% for the third through eighth decades of life. Even after assuming no false positives, missed cases of BE were about 50% when estimated for patients of ages 50 or 60 years, and over 60% for ages of 30, 40 or 70 years. Sensitivity analysis was done for all variables in the model calculations. For ages 50 and 60 years, this resulted in values from 30.3 to 57.3% and 36.4 to 60.9%.

Conclusion

Screening for BE with endoscopy and FB misses approximately 50% of BE cases. More sensitive methods of BE detection or better adherence to the Seattle protocol are needed.
Addressing Mental Health and Trauma-Related Needs of Sheltered Children and Families with Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
Authors: Spiegel Jamie A. , Graziano Paulo A. , Arcia Emily , Cox Shana K. , Ayala Muriel , Carnero Nicole A. , O’Mara Noelle L. ,   Sundari Foundation
Published: July 2022

Children and adolescents (“youth”) experiencing homelessness are at a disproportionately high risk of exposure to potentially traumatic events (PTE). However, limited evidence exists as to what interventions are effective when implemented with this high-risk population. The purpose of this study was to (1) document the mental health and trauma-related needs of sheltered youth and their mothers, and (2) examine the feasibility/effectiveness of Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) administered within the context of a homeless shelter. Three hundred and twenty-one youth (Mage = 10.06 years, SD = 3.24 years, 56.4% male, 70.1% Black/African American, 34.6% Hispanic/Latinx) and their mothers were recruited from a homeless shelter and provided 10 weeks of TF-CBT, with the option for up to eight additional weeks of therapy based on clinical need. Families completed pre- and post-intervention assessments. Results demonstrated clinically elevated pre-intervention PTSD symptoms and rates of exposure to PTE in sheltered youth well above those previously reported in the general population. TF-CBT resulted in substantial reductions in both maternal and self-reported severity of youth PTSD symptomology, which were largely attributable to reductions in re-experiencing and arousal. Effectiveness of TF-CBT varied by age and the number of exposures to PTE. Overall, these findings illustrate the importance of assessing and addressing the mental health and trauma-related needs of sheltered youth and the feasibility and efficacy of embedding an evidence-based trauma-focused treatment protocol within a shelter environment. Additional implications of these findings are discussed.
A comparative analysis of conventional and speckle-tracking strain echocardiographic findings in diabetic and non-diabetic kidney disease patients with normal ejection fraction
Authors: Paramasivam Ganesh , Rao Indu Ramachandra , Samanth Jyothi , Nayak Krishnananda , Nayak Rakshitha , Martis Simran Agnes , Jerome Rinkle , Nagaraju Shankar Prasad , Prabhu Ravindra Attur , Devasia Tom
Published: July 2022

This study aimed to compare the differences in echocardiographic and strain parameters in patients with diabetic kidney disease (DKD) and non-diabetic kidney disease (NDKD) in a cohort with pre-dialysis chronic kidney disease (CKD) and normal ejection fraction (EF). In this single-center prospective study, patients with CKD stages 3–5 and EF > 55% were included. We compared cardiac structure and function using conventional and speckle-tracking strain echocardiography among DKD and NDKD groups. Cardiovascular outcomes were assessed at the end of the study. Of the included 117 patients, 56 (47.9%) had DKD, and 61 (52.1%) had NDKD. Patients with DKD had higher ratios of early mitral inflow velocity and mitral annular early diastolic velocity (E/e’) (11.9 ± 4.4 vs. 9.8 ± 3.5; p = 0.004), lower septal e’ velocity (7.1 ± 2.5 vs. 8.2 ± 2.8; p = 0.031), lower lateral e’ velocity (9.2 ± 2.9 vs. 10.4 ± 3.8; p = 0.045) and longer deceleration times (209.2 ± 41.5 vs. 189.1 ± 48.0; p = 0.017), compared to those with NDKD. Left ventricular mass index (LVMI), global longitudinal strain (GLS), early diastolic strain rate (SRE), and E/SRE were similar. At a median follow-up of 239 days, 3-P MACE (11.5% vs. 4.9%; p = 0.047) and 4-P MACE (28.6% vs. 11.5%; p = 0.020) were observed to be higher in the DKD group. Diastolic dysfunction was more common in patients with DKD, compared to those with NDKD, although both groups had similar LVMI and GLS. Those with DKD also had poorer cardiovascular outcomes. This highlights the importance of the assessment of diastolic function in CKD, particularly in those with diabetic CKD.
Electrochemotherapy of skin metastases from malignant melanoma: a PRISMA-compliant systematic review
Authors: Ferioli Martina , Lancellotta Valentina , Perrone Anna Myriam , Arcelli Alessandra , Galuppi Andrea , Strigari Lidia , Buwenge Milly , De Terlizzi Francesca , Cammelli Silvia , Iezzi Roberto , De Iaco Pierandrea , Tagliaferri Luca , Morganti Alessio G.
Published: July 2022

The main treatment of MM metastases are systemic therapies, surgery, limb perfusion, and intralesional talimogene laherparepvec. Electrochemotherapy (ECT) is potentially useful also due to the high response rates recorded in cancers of any histology. No randomized studies comparing ECT with other local therapies have been published on this topic. We analyzed the available evidence on efficacy and toxicity of ECT in this setting. PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane databases were screened for paper about ECT on MM skin metastases. Data about tumor response, mainly in terms of overall response rate (ORR), toxicity (both for ECT alone and in combination with systemic treatments), local control (LC), and overall survival (OS) were collected. The methodological quality was assessed using a 20-item validated quality appraisal tool for case series. Overall, 18 studies were included in our analysis. In studies reporting “per patient” tumor response the pooled complete response (CR) was 35.7% (95%CI 26.0–46.0%), and the pooled ORR was 80.6% (95%CI 68.7–90.1%). Regarding “per lesion” response, the pooled CR was 53.5% (95%CI 42.1–64.7%) and the pooled ORR was 77.0% (95%CI 56.0–92.6%). One-year LC rate was 80%, and 1-year OS was 67–86.2%. Pain (24.2–92.0%) and erythema (16.6–42.0%) were the most frequent toxicities. Two studies reported 29.2% and 41.6% incidence of necrosis. ECT is effective in terms of tumor response and tolerated in patients with skin metastases from MM, albeit with a wide variability of reported results. Therefore, prospective trials in this setting are warranted.