bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Study on Infrared Radiation Characteristics of Stealth Coating for Turbofan Engine Tail Nozzle
Authors: Yuan Yuwei , Zeng Hao , Li Yiwen , He Liming , Chen Lihai
Published: October 2022

Infrared stealth technology plays a vital role in improving the survivability of future aircraft. The exhaust system is the main source of infrared radiation on the rear side of the aircraft, and stealth coating is an effective measure to reduce the infrared radiation on the solid wall of the nozzle. Mature commercial computational fluid dynamics software was used to obtain and analyze accurate data of the flow field to study the infrared radiation characteristics of the stealth coating on the turbofan engine nozzle. Furthermore, infrared simulation software based on the reverse Monte Carlo method, line-by-line calculation technique, and database technology for high-temperature gas parameters of a narrowband model were used to numerically simulate the exhaust system of a turbofan engine with infrared suppression coating. Assuming that the damage percentage of the external adjusting plate is constant, the findings reveal that the overall infrared radiation intensity exhibits a steadily increasing trend with the increase in the number of damaged adjusting plates. The maximum change in the infrared radiation intensity between eight damaged adjusting plates and one damaged adjusting plate was 11.67%. Thus, regular inspection and maintenance are required for the stealth coating on the external adjusting plate of the aero-engine tail nozzle to maintain stealth integrity.
Performance Evaluation and Optimization of a Photovoltaic/Thermal (PV/T) System according to Climatic Conditions
Authors: Assareh Ehsanolah , Jafarian Masoud , Nedaei Mojtaba , Firoozzadeh Mohammad , Lee Moonyong
Published: October 2022

Population and economic growth, industrial activities, development of technology, and depletion of fossil fuels have all led to increasing energy demand. As a result, there is an increasing ambition towards implementation of sustainable energy sources. In this study, first, a review of the literature is conducted to learn about various methods and objectives for optimization of photovoltaic and thermal (PV/T) systems. Then, a case study is considered, and the seasonal and hourly solar radiation are studied. Further, two methods of multiobjective evolutionary algorithm based on decomposition (MOEA/D) and multiobjective particle swarm optimization (MOPSO) are compared. On this basis, the energy and exergy efficiencies are analyzed for a proposed PV/T system. The outcomes are validated by taking into account the previous studies, and a sufficient agreement is found indicating the validity and accuracy of the results. It is also found that the efficiency rates for both energy and exergy soar with a rise in the ambient temperature. Additionally, a growth in the warm water flow rate from 0.4 to 1 kg/s increases the exergy efficiency by 0.6%. It is concluded that the MOEA/D method outperforms the MOPSO in terms of the optimization of the proposed PV/T system.
Research on Energy Conversion in the Arc-Extinguishing Process of a Long-Gap Gas Lightning-Protection Device
Authors: He Qiwen , Wang Jufeng , Lu Yang , Song Yongfeng , Jia Zhenghao , Li Hao , Wang Yanlei , Zhang Yiyi
Published: October 2022

In this paper, a two-dimensional axisymmetric module of gas arc extinguishing was simulated using energy balance theories. We used simulation to study the energy distribution change during the gas arc-extinguishing process. We built a lightning impulse current experimental platform according to the IEC standard, and experiments verified the preliminary conclusions of the simulation. Comparison curves of the experimental data and simulation calculations were drawn in the range of 20 kV to 70 kV. Simulation and experimental results showed that the arc-extinguishing ability of long-gap gas arcs is negatively correlated with voltage level and positively correlated with distance. Furthermore, within the allowable range of conditions, increasing the length of the chamber rather than shortening it helps to extinguish the arc more effectively and quickly.
Industrial CHP with Steam Systems: A Review of Recent Case Studies, Trends and Relevance to Malaysian Industry
Authors: Pariasamy Shankar Ganesh , Venkiteswaran Vinod Kumar , Kumar Jeyanandan , Awad Mohamed M.
Published: October 2022

Malaysia’s energy intensity (GWh/GDP) shows an increasing trend since the 1990s, leading to the government’s efforts to promote energy efficiency via policies such as the National Energy Efficiency Action Plan (NEEAP), which includes the Energy Performance Contracting (EPC) initiative. This paper reviews recent publications in industrial Combined Heat and Power (CHP) with a focus on international case studies relevant to Malaysian industries that use industrial steam and highlights trends within the research area. It also provides the basis for more case studies to be performed in the Malaysian industry to improve energy efficiency while also supporting further academic research in the area. Additionally, the paper documents the importance of data collection and analysis as well as demand forecasting, not only for a better understanding of industrial energy systems but also to increase profitability since system loads may vary throughout a typical year. A multi-criteria and comprehensive approach is recommended in future case studies to ensure energy efficiency, economic returns and environmental impact are considered to ensure long-term sustainability. A summary of barriers to CHP implementation in the industry is also included to provide a broad understanding of industrial CHP.
Interaction between a Cyclically Heated Building and the Ground, for Selected Locations in Europe
Authors: Nawalany Grzegorz , Sokołowski Paweł
Published: October 2022

The aim of the study was to verify the impact of the location of a cyclically heated building on its energy needs and interaction with the environment. The model building was a large-scale broiler house located in southern Poland. In the examined facility, year-round measurements of selected parameters of the internal and external microclimate were carried out. The tests also covered the temperature of the soil in three measurement columns. The obtained measurement results were used for further computer analyses. A geometric model of the building was made and a calculation model specification was introduced, supported by specialized software for the physics of WUFI®plus structures. The numerical analysis included validation. The validation results were assessed on the basis of the Coefficient of Determination method (R2) and the Goodness of Fit (GOF) method. Due to the lack of normality of the data distribution, a Rang-Spearman correlation analysis was carried out, which showed a very strong data correlation (0.94). The analysis of the R2 coefficient of determination confirmed the high reliability of the model (83%). In the case of the GOF method, a compliance value of 87% was obtained. Differentiated locations were adopted for further analysis, while maintaining the structure of the examined building in reality. Six European locations were selected: Kraków (Poland), Málaga (Spain), Brest (France), Visby (Sweden), Umea (Sweden), and Kiruna (Sweden). The analysis included three variants, in which the length of the technological break was adopted accordingly. A technological break between production cycles was assumed, the three variants of which lasted 3, 7, and 14 days. The analysis of the obtained results showed that the external microclimate significantly determines the energy interaction between the building and the ground. The length of the technological break is very important in a climate dominated by low temperatures (Northern Scandinavia). The south-western part of Europe allows the technological break to be extended without significant differences for heating purposes. The length of the technological break in the range of 3 to 14 days does not significantly affect the intensity of heat exchange with the ground on a yearly basis, regardless of the location of the building. There were differences of no more than 2% between the technological break lasting 3 days and the 14-day break.
Analysis of a Hybrid Nuclear Renewable Energy Resource in a Distributed Energy System for a Rural Area in Nigeria
Authors: Ayo-Imoru Ronke M. , Ali Ahmed A. , Bokoro Pitshou N.
Published: October 2022

Climate change is one of the global issues being combatted in recent times. One of the measures is a worldwide cutdown on carbon emissions. This has brought about the rapid development of technologies that can best actualise this goal. The decentralised energy system is designed to harness the strengths of small power-generating sources such as renewable energy sources in a noncentralised manner to help meet the global need for clean energy. Renewable energy sources are faced with the challenge of intermittency, which brings about instability in the grid. Another source of clean energy is nuclear energy, which is traditionally large and not flexible; however, the recent development of technology has resulted in a scaled-down version of the large nuclear plants that are more flexible yet provide clean and stable electricity. This paper explores the possibility of deploying nuclear microreactors in the decentralised energy system and describes the features and the challenges of a decentralised energy system. The features of the small modular reactor that make it a viable candidate for the generating source in the decentralised energy system are explored. A case study for a DES system with a microreactor was conducted for a rural area in Nigeria. The HOMER software was used in simulating the optimum system, while TOPSIS was used in ranking the systems. The result showed that the PV/nuclear/battery system ranked first, followed by the PV/nuclear/wind and battery system.
The Physiological and Psychological Effects Benefits of Forest Therapy (FT) on Tourists in the Kranjska Gora Destination
Authors: Cvikl Darija , Avguštin Cvetka , Kreft Samo
Published: October 2022

To explore the effects of forest therapy in the Kranjska Gora tourist destination, experimental research on 50 tourists was implemented. By designing and following a specific forest therapy protocol, the physiological stress markers and psychological effects on tourists were measured. The results provide clear evidence of positive effects and health benefits on tourists. Additionally, the forest therapy experience is presented through the tourists’ fit-back and perception. The research results could be very useful for destination management, tourist providers, and the development of a forest therapy tourism activities, as well as the well-being forest tourism.
The Pink Teeth Phenomenon in Dogs and a Cat
Authors: Stern Adam W. , Clark AnnMarie , Byrd Jason H. , Leser Katrina M. , Russo Haley
Published: October 2022

The observance of pink teeth during the postmortem period in humans is known as the pink teeth phenomenon. In contrast, postmortem pink discoloration of teeth is rarely reported in veterinary medicine. We examined the teeth of nine dogs and a cat postmortem, all of which had varying degrees of pink discoloration of the teeth. Pink discoloration occurred in all types of teeth (incisors, canine, premolar, and molar). The roots of several teeth were discolored, ranging from pink to red, and over a 2–3 week period one dog’s lower incisors’ color changed from pink to red. Although the mechanism causing teeth to change color is suspected to be the uptake of hemoglobin within dentin tubules, the trigger for this phenomenon is not well understood. Our findings confirm the occurrence of the pink teeth phenomenon in dogs and a cat.
MSTN Regulatory Network in Mongolian Horse Muscle Satellite Cells Revealed with miRNA Interference Technologies
Authors: Budsuren Undarmaa , Ulaangerel Tseweendolmaa , Shen Yingchao , Liu Guiqin , Davshilt Toli , Yi Minna , Bold Demuul , Zhang Xinzhuang , Bai Dongyi , Dorjgotov Dulguun , Davaakhuu Gantulga , Jambal Tuyatsetseg , Li Bei , Du Ming , Dugarjav Manglai , Bou Gerelchimeg
Published: October 2022

Myostatin (MSTN), a member of the transforming growth factor-β superfamily, inhibits the activation of muscle satellite cells. However, the role and regulatory network of MSTN in equine muscle cells are not well understood yet. We discovered that MSTN knockdown significantly reduces the proliferation rate of equine muscle satellite cells. In addition, after the RNA sequencing of equine satellite cells transfected with MSTN-interference plasmid and control plasmid, an analysis of the differentially expressed genes was carried out. It was revealed that MSTN regulatory networks mainly involve genes related to muscle function and cell-cycle regulation, and signaling pathways, such as Notch, MAPK, and WNT. Subsequent real-time PCR in equine satellite cells and immunohistochemistry on newborn and adult muscle also verified the MSTN regulatory network found in RNA sequencing analysis. The results of this study provide new insight into the regulatory mechanism of equine MSTN.
Use of High-Resolution Multi-Temporal DEM Data for Landslide Detection
Authors: Azmoon Behnam , Biniyaz Aynaz , Liu Zhen
Published: October 2022

Landslides in urban areas have been relatively well-documented in landslide inventories despite issues in accuracy and completeness, e.g., the absence of small landslides. By contrast, less attention has been paid to landslides in sparsely populated areas in terms of their occurrences and locations. This study utilizes high-resolution and LiDAR-derived digital elevation models (DEMs) at two different times for landslide detection to (1) improve the localization and detection accuracies in landslide inventories, (2) minimize human intervention in the landslide detection process, and (3) identify landslides that cannot be easily documented in the current state of the practice. To achieve this goal, multiple preprocessing steps were used to ensure the spatial alignment of the multi-temporal DEMs. Map algebra was then used to calculate the vertical displacement for each cell and create a DEM of Difference (DoD) to obtain a quantitative estimation of ground deformations. Next, the elevation changes were filtered via an appropriate Level of Detection (LoD) threshold to mark potential landslide candidates. The landslide candidates were further assessed with the aid of customized topographic maps as auxiliary data and pattern recognition to distinguish landslides (true positive changes) from construction, erosion, and deposition (false positives). The results from the proposed method were compared with existing landslide inventories and reports to evaluate its performance. The new method was also validated with temporal high-resolution Google Earth images. The results showed the successful application of the method in landslide detection and mapping. Compared with traditional methods, the proposed method provides a semi-automatic way to obtain landslide inventories with publicly available yet lowly utilized DEM data, which can be valuable in preliminary analysis for landslide detection.
Case Report: α-Spectrin Mutation Associated with αLELY Polymorphism Responsible for Hereditary Pyropoikilocytosis
Authors: Sánchez Villalobos María , Salido Fiérrez Eduardo , Martínez Nieto Jorge , García Garay Mª Carmen , Beltrán Videla Asunción , Pérez Oliva Ana Belen , Blanquer Blanquer Miguel , Moraleda Jiménez José María
Published: October 2022

Hereditary pyropoikilocytosis (HPP) is characterised by severe hemolytic anemia due to membrane instability. We report the case of a 13-day-old boy with neonatal jaundice and severe hemolytic anemia. A peripheral smear examination showed severe anisopoikylocytosis. DNA sequencing revealed compound double heterozygous for mutant α-spectrin SPTA1 (Arg28His) and homozygous αLELY polymorphism (low expression α-spectrin allele), compatible with diagnosis of HPP.The patient required a blood transfusion initially, but spontaneously improved after two years. Our case illustrates that, despite the presence of the allele αLELY in homozygous, the clinical phenotype is similar to cases with a mutation in SPTA1 associated with αLELY in trans.
Molecular Research on Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Agnello Luisa , Ciaccio Marcello
Published: October 2022

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a rare, progressive, lethal, and degenerative disease of motor neurons for which there is no treatment currently available [...]
Insight in Superiority of the Hydrophobized Gentamycin in Terms of Antibiotics Delivery to Bone Tissue
Authors: Kwiecień Konrad , Pudełko Iwona , Knap Karolina , Reczyńska-Kolman Katarzyna , Krok-Borkowicz Małgorzata , Ochońska Dorota , Brzychczy-Włoch Monika , Pamuła Elżbieta
Published: October 2022

Bone infections are a serious problem to cure, as systemic administration of antibiotics is not very effective due to poor bone vascularization. Therefore, many drug delivery systems are investigated to solve this problem. One of the potential solutions is the delivery of antibiotics from poly(L-actide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) nanoparticles suspended in the gellan gum injectable hydrogel. However, the loading capacity and release kinetics of the system based on hydrophilic drugs (e.g., gentamycin) and hydrophobic polymers (e.g., PLGA) may not always be satisfying. To solve this problem, we decided to use hydrophobized gentamycin obtained by ion-pairing with dioctyl sulfosuccinate sodium salt (AOT). Herein, we present a comparison of the PLGA nanoparticles loaded with hydrophobic or hydrophilic gentamycin and suspended in the hydrogel in terms of physicochemical properties, drug loading capacity, release profiles, cytocompatibility, and antibacterial properties. The results showed that hydrophobic gentamycin may be combined in different formulations with the hydrophilic one and is superior in terms of encapsulation efficiency, drug loading, release, and antibacterial efficacy with no negative effect on the NPs morphology or hydrogel features. However, the cytocompatibility of hydrophobic gentamycin might be lower, consequently more extensive study on its biological properties should be provided to evaluate a safe dose.
Importance of Heparan Sulfate Proteoglycans in Pancreatic Islets and β-Cells
Authors: Takahashi Iwao
Published: October 2022

β-cells in the islets of Langerhans of the pancreas secrete insulin in response to the glucose concentration in the blood. When these pancreatic β-cells are damaged, diabetes develops through glucose intolerance caused by insufficient insulin secretion. High molecular weight polysaccharides, such as heparin and heparan sulfate (HS) proteoglycans, and HS-degrading enzymes, such as heparinase, participate in the protection, maintenance, and enhancement of the functions of pancreatic islets and β-cells, and the demand for studies on glycobiology within the field of diabetes research has increased. This review introduces the roles of complex glycoconjugates containing high molecular weight polysaccharides and their degrading enzymes in pancreatic islets and β-cells, including those obtained in studies conducted by us earlier. In addition, from the perspective of glycobiology, this study proposes the possibility of application to diabetes medicine.
Transcriptomic and Metabolomic Analysis of a Pseudomonas-Resistant versus a Susceptible Arabidopsis Accession
Authors: Orf Isabel , Tenenboim Hezi , Omranian Nooshin , Nikoloski Zoran , Fernie Alisdair R. , Lisec Jan , Brotman Yariv , Bromke Mariusz A.
Published: October 2022

Accessions of one plant species may show significantly different levels of susceptibility to stresses. The Arabidopsis thaliana accessions Col-0 and C24 differ significantly in their resistance to the pathogen Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato (Pst). To help unravel the underlying mechanisms contributing to this naturally occurring variance in resistance to Pst, we analyzed changes in transcripts and compounds from primary and secondary metabolism of Col-0 and C24 at different time points after infection with Pst. Our results show that the differences in the resistance of Col-0 and C24 mainly involve mechanisms of salicylic-acid-dependent systemic acquired resistance, while responses of jasmonic-acid-dependent mechanisms are shared between the two accessions. In addition, arginine metabolism and differential activity of the biosynthesis pathways of aliphatic glucosinolates and indole glucosinolates may also contribute to the resistance. Thus, this study highlights the difference in the defense response strategies utilized by different genotypes.
Methylome Profiling in Fabry Disease in Clinical Practice: A Proof of Concept
Authors: Di Risi Teodolinda , Cuomo Mariella , Vinciguerra Roberta , Ferraro Sara , Della Monica Rosa , Costabile Davide , Buonaiuto Michela , Trio Federica , Capoluongo Ettore , Visconti Roberta , Riccio Eleonora , Pisani Antonio , Chiariotti Lorenzo
Published: October 2022

Anderson–Fabry disease (FD) is an X-linked disease caused by a functional deficit of the α-galactosidase A enzyme. FD diagnosis relies on the clinical manifestations and research of GLA gene mutations. However, because of the lack of a clear genotype/phenotype correlation, FD diagnosis can be challenging. Recently, several studies have highlighted the importance of investigating DNA methylation patterns for confirming the correct diagnosis of different rare Mendelian diseases, but to date, no such studies have been reported for FD. Thus, in the present investigation, we analyzed for the first time the genome-wide methylation profile of a well-characterized cohort of patients with Fabry disease. We profiled the methylation status of about 850,000 CpG sites in 5 FD patients, all carrying the same mutation in the GLA gene (exon 6 c.901C>G) and presenting comparable low levels of α-Gal A activity. We found that, although the whole methylome profile did not discriminate the FD group from the unaffected one, several genes were significantly differentially methylated in Fabry patients. Thus, we provide here a proof of concept, to be tested in patients with different mutations and in a larger cohort, that the methylation state of specific genes can potentially identify Fabry patients and possibly predict organ involvement and disease evolution.
Subacute Pulmonary Toxicity of Glutaraldehyde Aerosols in a Human In Vitro Airway Tissue Model
Authors: Wang Yiying , Wu Qiangen , Ren Baiping , Muskhelishvili Levan , Davis Kelly , Wynne Rebecca , Rua Diego , Cao Xuefei
Published: October 2022

Glutaraldehyde (GA) has been cleared by the Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH) of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a high-level disinfectant for disinfecting heat-sensitive medical equipment in hospitals and healthcare facilities. Inhalation exposure to GA is known to cause respiratory irritation and sensitization in animals and humans. To reproduce some of the known in vivo effects elicited by GA, we used a liquid aerosol exposure system and evaluated the tissue responses in a human in vitro airway epithelial tissue model. The cultures were treated at the air interface with various concentrations of GA aerosols on five consecutive days and changes in tissue function and structure were evaluated at select timepoints during the treatment phase and after a 7-day recovery period. Exposure to GA aerosols caused oxidative stress, inhibition of ciliary beating frequency, aberrant mucin production, and disturbance of cytokine and matrix metalloproteinase secretion, as well as morphological transformation. Some effects, such as those on goblet cells and ciliated cells, persisted following the 7-day recovery period. Of note, the functional and structural disturbances observed in GA-treated cultures resemble those found in ortho-phthaldehyde (OPA)-treated cultures. Furthermore, our in vitro findings on GA toxicity partially and qualitatively mimicked those reported in the animal and human survey studies. Taken together, observations from this study demonstrate that the human air-liquid-interface (ALI) airway tissue model, integrated with an in vitro exposure system that simulates human inhalation exposure, could be used for in vitro-based human hazard identification and the risk characterization of aerosolized chemicals.
Phenotypical Flexibility of the EGFRvIII-Positive Glioblastoma Cell Line and the Multidirectional Influence of TGFβ and EGF on These Cells—EGFRvIII Appears as a Weak Oncogene
Authors: Włodarczyk Aneta , Tręda Cezary , Rutkowska Adrianna , Grot Dagmara , Dobrewa Weronika , Kierasińska Amelia , Węgierska Marta , Wasiak Tomasz , Strózik Tadeusz , Rieske Piotr , Stoczyńska-Fidelus Ewelina
Published: October 2022

Background: The biological role of EGFRvIII (epidermal growth factor receptor variant three) remains unclear. Methods: Three glioblastoma DK-MG sublines were tested with EGF (epidermal growth factor) and TGFβ (transforming growth factor β). Sublines were characterized by an increased percentage of EGFRvIII-positive cells and doubling time (DK-MGlow to DK-MGextra-high), number of amplicons, and EGFRvIII mRNA expression. The influence of the growth factors on primary EGFRvIII positive glioblastomas was assessed. Results: The overexpression of exoEGFRvIII in DK-MGhigh did not convert them into DK-MGextra-high, and this overexpression did not change DK-MGlow to DK-MGhigh; however, the overexpression of RASG12V increased the proliferation of DK-MGlow. Moreover, the highest EGFRvIII phosphorylation in DK-MGextra-high did not cause relevant AKT (known as protein kinase B) and ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinase) activation. Further analyses indicate that TGFβ is able to induce apoptosis of DK-MGhigh cells. This subline was able to convert to DK-MGextra-high, which appeared resistant to this proapoptotic effect. EGF acted as a pro-survival factor and stimulated proliferation; however, simultaneous senescence induction in DK-MGextra-high cells was ambiguous. Primary EGFRvIII positive (and SOX2 (SRY-Box Transcription Factor 2) positive or SOX2 negative) glioblastoma cells differentially responded to EGF and TGFβ. Conclusions: The roles of TGFβ and EGF in the EGFRvIII context remain unclear. EGFRvIII appears as a weak oncogene and not a marker of GSC (glioma stem cells). Hence, it may not be a proper target for CAR-T (chimeric antigen receptor T cells).
Functions of the Zinc-Sensing Receptor GPR39 in Regulating Intestinal Health in Animals
Authors: Xia Pengpeng , Yan Li , Ji Xingduo , Wu Yunping , Lian Siqi , Zhu Guoqiang
Published: October 2022

G protein-coupled receptor 39 (GPR39) is a zinc-sensing receptor (ZnR) that can sense changes in extracellular Zn2+, mediate Zn2+ signal transmission, and participate in the regulation of numerous physiological activities in living organisms. For example, GPR39 activates the extracellular signal-regulated kinase/mitogen-activated protein kinase (ERK/MAPK) and phosphatidylinositol3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) signaling pathways upon Zn2+ stimulation, enhances the proliferation and differentiation of colonic cells, and regulates ion transport, as well as exerting other functions. In recent years, with the increased attention to animal gut health issues and the intensive research on GPR39, GPR39 has become a potential target for regulating animal intestinal health. On the one hand, GPR39 is involved in regulating ion transport in the animal intestine, mediating the Cl− efflux by activating the K+/Cl− synergistic protein transporter, and relieving diarrhea symptoms. On the other hand, GPR39 can maintain the homeostasis of the animal intestine, promoting pH restoration in colonic cells, regulating gastric acid secretion, and facilitating nutrient absorption. In addition, GPR39 can affect the expression of tight junction proteins in intestinal epithelial cells, improving the barrier function of the animal intestinal mucosa, and maintaining the integrity of the intestine. This review summarizes the structure and signaling transduction processes involving GPR39 and the effect of GPR39 on the regulation of intestinal health in animals, with the aim of further highlighting the role of GPR39 in regulating animal intestinal health and providing new directions and ideas for studying the prevention and treatment of animal intestinal diseases.
Non-Genetic Modifiers of Synaptic Plasticity and Neurotransmission in the Central Nervous System (CNS) in Health and Disease
Authors: Grabrucker Andreas M.
Published: October 2022

This Special Edition intends to focus on the influence of non-genetic factors as modifiers of synaptic plasticity and neurotransmission in health and disease [...]
The Protective Effect of CBD in a Model of In Vitro Ischemia May Be Mediated by Agonism on TRPV2 Channel and Microglia Activation
Authors: Lana Daniele , Landucci Elisa , Mazzantini Costanza , Magni Giada , Pellegrini-Giampietro Domenico Edoardo , Giovannini Maria Grazia
Published: October 2022

Cannabinoids, used for centuries for recreational and medical purposes, have potential therapeutic value in stroke treatment. Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound and partial agonist of TRPV2 channels, is efficacious in many neurological disorders. We investigated the effects of CBD or Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in rat organotypic hippocampal slices exposed to oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD), an in vitro model of ischemia. Neuronal TRPV2 expression decreased after OGD, but it increased in activated, phagocytic microglia. CBD increased TRPV2 expression, decreased microglia phagocytosis, and increased rod microglia after OGD. THC had effects contrary to those of CBD. Our results show that cannabinoids have different effects in ischemia. CBD showed neuroprotective effects, mediated, at least in part, by TRPV2 channels, since the TRPV2 antagonist tranilast blocked them, while THC worsened the neurodegeneration caused by ischemia. In conclusion, our results suggest that different cannabinoid molecules play different roles in the mechanisms of post-ischemic neuronal death. These different effects of cannabinoid observed in our experiments caution against the indiscriminate use of cannabis or cannabinoid preparations for recreational or therapeutic use. It was observed that the positive effects of CBD may be counteracted by the negative effects caused by high levels of THC.
Engineered Immature Testicular Tissue by Electrospun Mats for Prepubertal Fertility Preservation in a Bioluminescence Imaging Transgenic Mouse Model
Authors: Chen Chi-Huang , Shih Tsai-Chin , Liu Yung-Liang , Peng Yi-Jen , Huang Ya-Li , Chen Brian Shiian , Tseng How
Published: October 2022

Prepubertal boys with cancer may suffer from reduced fertility and maturity following gonadotoxic chemoradiotherapy. Thus, a viable method of immature testicular tissue (ITT) preservation is required in this cohort. In this study, we used poly-L-lactic acid electrospun scaffolds with two levels of fineness to support the development of ITT transplanted from transgenic donors to wild-type recipient mice. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the potential of ITT transplantation and spermatogenesis after using the two scaffolds, employing bioluminescence imaging for evaluation. The results suggest that ITT from 4-week-old mice possessed the most potential in spermatogenesis on the 70th day, together with the fine electrospun scaffolds. Moreover, bioluminescent imaging intensity was observed in recipient mice for up to 107 days, approximately six times more than the coarse electrospun scaffold and the control group. This occurs since the fine scaffold is more akin to the microenvironment of native testicular tissue as it reduces stiffness resulting from micronization and body fluid infiltration. The thermal analysis also exhibited recrystallization during the biodegradation process, which can lead to a more stable microenvironment. Overall, these findings present the prospect of fertility preservation in prepubertal males and could serve as a framework for future applications.
Understanding Bacteriophage Tail Fiber Interaction with Host Surface Receptor: The Key “Blueprint” for Reprogramming Phage Host Range
Authors: Taslem Mourosi Jarin , Awe Ayobami , Guo Wenzheng , Batra Himanshu , Ganesh Harrish , Wu Xiaorong , Zhu Jingen
Published: October 2022

Bacteriophages (phages), as natural antibacterial agents, are being rediscovered because of the growing threat of multi- and pan-drug-resistant bacterial pathogens globally. However, with an estimated 1031 phages on the planet, finding the right phage to recognize a specific bacterial host is like looking for a needle in a trillion haystacks. The host range of a phage is primarily determined by phage tail fibers (or spikes), which initially mediate reversible and specific recognition and adsorption by susceptible bacteria. Recent significant advances at single-molecule and atomic levels have begun to unravel the structural organization of tail fibers and underlying mechanisms of phage–host interactions. Here, we discuss the molecular mechanisms and models of the tail fibers of the well-characterized T4 phage’s interaction with host surface receptors. Structure–function knowledge of tail fibers will pave the way for reprogramming phage host range and will bring future benefits through more-effective phage therapy in medicine. Furthermore, the design strategies of tail fiber engineering are briefly summarized, including machine-learning-assisted engineering inspired by the increasingly enormous amount of phage genetic information.
Language Identification-Based Evaluation of Single Channel Speech Separation of Overlapped Speeches
Authors: Aysa Zuhragvl , Ablimit Mijit , Yilahun Hankiz , Hamdulla Askar
Published: October 2022

In multi-lingual, multi-speaker environments (e.g., international conference scenarios), speech, language, and background sounds can overlap. In real-world scenarios, source separation techniques are needed to separate target sounds. Downstream tasks, such as ASR, speaker recognition, speech recognition, VAD, etc., can be combined with speech separation tasks to gain a better understanding. Since most of the evaluation methods for monophonic separation are either single or subjective, this paper used the downstream recognition task as an overall evaluation criterion. Thus, the performance could be directly evaluated by the metrics of the downstream task. In this paper, we investigated a two-stage training scheme that combined speech separation and language identification tasks. To analyze and optimize the separation performance of single-channel overlapping speech, the separated speech was fed to a language identification engine to evaluate its accuracy. The speech separation model was a single-channel speech separation network trained with WSJ0-2mix. For the language identification system, we used an Oriental Language Dataset and a dataset synthesized by directly mixing different proportions of speech groups. The combined effect of these two models was evaluated for various overlapping speech scenarios. When the language identification network model was based on single-person single-speech frequency spectrum features, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Indonesian, and Vietnamese had significantly improved recognition results over the mixed audio spectrum.
Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events in Coronary Type 2 Diabetic Patients: Identification of Associated Factors Using Electronic Health Records and Natural Language Processing
Authors: González-Juanatey Carlos , Anguita-Sánchez Manuel , Barrios Vivencio , Núñez-Gil Iván , Gómez-Doblas Juan José , García-Moll Xavier , Lafuente-Gormaz Carlos , Rollán-Gómez María Jesús , Peral-Disdier Vicente , Martínez-Dolz Luis , Rodríguez-Santamarta Miguel , Viñolas-Prat Xavier , Soriano-Colomé Toni , Muñoz-Aguilera Roberto , Plaza Ignacio , Curcio-Ruigómez Alejandro , Orts-Soler Ernesto , Segovia Javier , Fanjul Víctor , Cequier Ángel ,   SAVANA Research Group
Published: October 2022

Patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and coronary artery disease (CAD) are at high risk of developing major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). This is a multicenter, retrospective, and observational study performed in Spain aimed to characterize these patients in a real-world setting. Unstructured data from the Electronic Health Records were extracted by EHRead®, a technology based on Natural Language Processing and machine learning. The association between new MACE and the variables of interest were investigated by univariable and multivariable analyses. From a source population of 2,184,662 patients, we identified 4072 adults diagnosed with T2DM and CAD (62.2% male, mean age 70 ± 11). The main comorbidities observed included arterial hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and obesity, with metformin and statins being the treatments most frequently prescribed. MACE development was associated with multivessel (Hazard Ratio (HR) = 2.49) and single coronary vessel disease (HR = 1.71), transient ischemic attack (HR = 2.01), heart failure (HR = 1.32), insulin treatment (HR = 1.40), and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) (HR = 2.27), whilst statins (HR = 0.73) were associated with a lower risk of MACE occurrence. In conclusion, we found six risk factors associated with the development of MACE which were related with cardiovascular diseases and T2DM severity, and treatment with statins was identified as a protective factor for new MACE in this study.
Strengthening Peer Mentoring Relationships for New Mothers: A Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Law Kwok Hong , Jackson Ben , Tan Xuan Hui , Teague Samantha , Krause Amanda , Putter Kaila , Du’cane Monique , Gibson Lisa , Bulles Kelby F. , Barkin Jennifer , Dimmock James A.
Published: October 2022

(1) Background: The transition to motherhood can be challenging, especially for first-time mothers, and can accompany maternal distress. Social support—such as that offered by peers—can be important in assisting mothers to manage such distress. Although primiparous mothers often seek out and value peer support programs, few researchers have investigated factors that may influence the strength of relationships in non-professional maternal peer support programs. Insight into these factors can be key to enhancing the success of future peer support interventions. (2) Methods: Reflexive thematic analysis was applied to data gathered from 36 semi-structured interviews conducted with 14 primiparous mothers and 17 peer mentors in a peer support program. (3) Results: Four themes related to successful mentorship were identified: expectations of peer relationship, independence of peer mentor, contact, and similarities. (4) Conclusions: For primiparous mothers who are developing their support network, these factors appear important for promoting close and effective peer support relationships. Interventions that harness the dynamics between these factors may contribute to more successful peer support relationships and mental health outcomes for participants.
Intelligent Control of Seizure-Like Activity in a Memristive Neuromorphic Circuit Based on the Hodgkin–Huxley Model
Authors: Bessa Wallace Moreira , Lima Gabriel da Silva
Published: October 2022

Memristive neuromorphic systems represent one of the most promising technologies to overcome the current challenges faced by conventional computer systems. They have recently been proposed for a wide variety of applications, such as nonvolatile computer memory, neuroprosthetics, and brain–machine interfaces. However, due to their intrinsically nonlinear characteristics, they present a very complex dynamic behavior, including self-sustained oscillations, seizure-like events, and chaos, which may compromise their use in closed-loop systems. In this work, a novel intelligent controller is proposed to suppress seizure-like events in a memristive circuit based on the Hodgkin–Huxley equations. For this purpose, an adaptive neural network is adopted within a Lyapunov-based nonlinear control scheme to attenuate bursting dynamics in the circuit, while compensating for modeling uncertainties and external disturbances. The boundedness and convergence properties of the proposed control scheme are rigorously proved by means of a Lyapunov-like stability analysis. The obtained results confirm the effectiveness of the proposed intelligent controller, presenting a much improved performance when compared with a conventional nonlinear control scheme.
Diabetes Mellitus and Heart Failure
Authors: Siao Wun-Zhih , Chen Yong-Hsin , Tsai Chin-Feng , Lee Chun-Ming , Jong Gwo-Ping
Published: October 2022

The coexistence of diabetes mellitus (DM) and heart failure (HF) is frequent and is associated with a higher risk of hospitalization for HF and all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. It has been estimated that millions of people are affected by HF and DM, and the prevalence of both conditions has increased over time. Concomitant HF and diabetes confer a worse prognosis than each alone; therefore, managing DM care is critical for preventing HF. This article reviews the prevalence of HF and diabetes and the correlated prognosis as well as provides a basic understanding of diabetic cardiomyopathy, including its pathophysiology, focusing on the relationship between DM and HF with a preserved ejection fraction and summarizes the potential aldosterone and the mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists approaches for managing heart failure and DM. Sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2Is) are an emerging class of glucose-lowering drugs, and the role of SGLT2Is in DM patients with HF was reviewed to establish updated and comprehensive concepts for improving optimal medical care in clinical practice.
Genetic Counselling Needs for Reproductive Genetic Carrier Screening: A Scoping Review
Authors: Edwards Samantha , Laing Nigel
Published: October 2022

Reproductive genetic carrier screening provides individuals and couples with information regarding their risk of having a child affected by an autosomal recessive or X-linked recessive genetic condition. This information allows them the opportunity to make reproductive decisions in line with their own beliefs and values. Traditionally, carrier screening has been accessed by family members of affected individuals. In recent years, improvements to accessibility and updates to recommendations suggest that all women planning or in early pregnancy should be offered reproductive genetic carrier screening. As uptake moves towards the population scale, how can the genetic counselling needs of such large-scale screening be met? A scoping review of the literature was performed to ascertain what the genetic counselling needs of reproductive genetic carrier screening are, and what future research is needed. Four broad themes were identified in the existing literature: (1) The offer—when and in what context to offer screening; (2) Information—the importance of and what to include in education, and pre- and post-test counselling; (3) Who and how—who the genetic counselling is performed by and how; (4) Personalization—how do we find the balance between standardized and individualized approaches? Based on the existing literature, we present a set of recommendations for consideration in implementing population-scale reproductive genetic carrier screening as well as suggested areas for future research.
The Current State of Donor-Derived Cell-Free DNA Use in Allograft Monitoring in Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Kueht Michael L. , Dongur Laxmi Priya , Cusick Matthew , Stevenson Heather L. , Mujtaba Muhammad
Published: October 2022

Renal transplantation is the definitive therapy for patients suffering from end-stage renal disease. Though there have been significant advances in immunosuppression in these patients, there is still up to 30% acute and subclinical rejection. Current standards employ lab markers of renal function and biopsy results for accurate diagnosis. However, donor derived cell-free DNA has been identified as a measurable lab test that may be able to adequately diagnose rejection at early stages, precluding the need for invasive procedures like biopsy. We obtained published data directly from companies that offer ddcfDNA assay tests and additionally conducted a literature review using databases like PUBMED and NIH U.S. National Library of Medicine. We comprehensively compare the most used ddcfDNA assays, delineate their respective limitations, and further explore future directions in the utility of ddcfDNA in renal transplant patients.
Spatio-Temporal Pattern and Spatial Disequilibrium of Cultivated Land Use Efficiency in China: An Empirical Study Based on 342 Prefecture-Level Cities
Authors: Wang Yajuan , Wu Xi , Zhu Hongbo
Published: October 2022

As an important resource for human survival and development, the utilization efficiency of cultivated land is directly related to national food security and social harmony and stability. Based on the stochastic frontier production function, this paper estimated the cultivated land use efficiency of 342 prefecture-level administrative regions in China from 2003 to 2019 and used spatial autocorrelation analysis and the Gini coefficient decomposition model to explore the spatial agglomeration and spatial disequilibrium of cultivated land use efficiency in China. The results showed the following: (1) Overall, the efficiency of cultivated land use in China has steadily improved since 2003, but the overall level remains low. The use efficiency of cultivated land decreases in the order of eastern, northeastern, western, and central regions, and the use efficiency of cultivated land in the central region increased the fastest. (2) From the perspective of the spatial dimension, the cultivated land use efficiency in urban areas of China has a multi-core structure of “high in the south and low in the north, high in the east and low in the west” and an obvious spatial differentiation pattern. At the same time, the spatial aggregation characteristics of cultivated land use efficiency have become more prominent with the passage of time. (3) There are obvious regional differences in cultivated land use efficiency in China, showing a downward trend as a whole, and the gap between regions is the main source of spatial non-equilibrium, followed by the super-variable density and the gap within regions. Revealing the temporal and spatial changes in cultivated land use efficiency is helpful to understand the present situation of cultivated land use and to formulating effective land use policies.