bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations of Neurocognition and Social Cognition With Brain Structure and Function in Early-Onset Schizophrenia
Authors: Guo Pengfei , Hu Shuwen , Jiang Xiaolu , Zheng Hongyu , Mo Daming , Cao Xiaomei , Zhu Jiajia , Zhong Hui
Published: February 2022

Background

Cognitive impairment is a core feature of schizophrenia that is more serious in patients with early-onset schizophrenia (EOS). However, the neuroimaging basis of cognitive functions, including neurocognition and social cognition, remains unclear in patients with EOS.

Methods

Forty-three patients with EOS underwent structural and resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging scans. Brain structure and function were evaluated through the analysis of brain gray matter volume (GMV) and amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (ALFF). They underwent comprehensive assessments for neurocognition (verbal memory, verbal expression, attention, and executive function) and social cognition (theory of mind and attributional bias). Correlation analyses were conducted to detect the potential link between cognitive function indices and brain imaging parameters.

Results

First, neurocognition was linked to brain structure characterized by higher immediate recall scores associated with increased GMV in the left temporal pole, higher verbal fluency scores associated with increased GMV in the left temporal pole: middle temporal gyrus, and higher Stroop-word scores associated with increased GMV in the right middle frontal gyrus. Second, social cognition was related to brain function characterized by lower sense of reality scores associated with increased ALFF in the left precentral gyrus, higher scores of accidental hostility bias associated with increased ALFF in the right middle temporal gyrus, and higher scores of accidental aggression bias associated with increased ALFF in the left precentral gyrus.

Conclusion

These findings may add to the existing knowledge about the cognitive function-brain relationship. They may have clinical significance for studying the mechanism of neurocognitive and social cognitive impairment in patients with EOS and providing potential neural targets for their treatment and intervention.
The Association Between Cadmium Exposure and Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lin Yu , Li Ting , Xiao Jiangbo , Xie Kaipeng , Shi Zhonghua
Published: February 2022

Objective

Several studies have evaluated the association of cadmium exposure with the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). However, the findings among these studies have been inconsistent. To further investigate the relationship, we carried out a meta-analysis to clarify the relationship between cadmium exposure and GDM risk.

Methods

Five databases (Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, and CNKI) were searched for eligible studies until September 09, 2021. The quality of eligible studies was evaluated using the Newcastle–Ottawa quality assessment scale (NOS). The summary odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated by random-effects models due to high heterogeneity. Sensitivity analysis was performed to explore the robustness of the results. Publication bias was evaluated by Egger's test and Begg's test. We also conducted meta-regression analysis and subgroup analysis to assess the potential sources of heterogeneity.

Results

A total of 10 studies with 32,000 participants related to our issue were included. Comparing the highest vs. lowest categories of cadmium exposure, no significant association was observed between cadmium exposure and the risk of GDM (OR = 1.16, 95% CI = 0.92–1.46, and P = 0.206). No publication bias was found in Begg's and Egger's tests (all P > 0.05). Meta-regression suggested that publication year was the potentially heterogeneous source (P = 0.034). Subgroup analysis of publication year showed that the OR of studies before the year of 2016 was 4.05 (95% CI = 1.87–8.76, P < 0.001), and prospective cohort studies showed a borderline increased GDM risk (OR = 1.15, 95% CI = 0.99–1.33, and P = 0.061).

Conclusion

Our results indicated no significant association between cadmium exposure and GDM risk. Further high-quality prospective studies, especially those using standard analytic methods for cadmium exposure, are warranted to confirm the results.
The Temporal and Spatial Changes of Health Inequality in Rural China
Authors: Jiang Jinqi , Huang Wanzhen , Liu Yunru , Wang Zhenhua
Published: February 2022

This article estimates the temporal and spatial changes of health inequality in rural China from 2010 to 2018. Based on a panel database of 29,616 rural residents, the Health Utility Index (HUI) and a spatial econometric model are used for analysis. The results show that, on the temporal dimension, the health inequality of rural China first expands and then deflates. On the spatial dimension, the health inequality gradually deflates from eastern to western China. Furthermore, from 2010 to 2018, the high and low-value areas constantly changed among different provinces. After decomposing the causes of health inequality, it is found that behind the health inequality is the difference of socioeconomic-related status. Moreover, narrowing the difference in socioeconomic-related status is the key to improving health inequality.
Integrating Cognitive Dysfunction Accommodation Strategies Into Behavioral Interventions for Persons on Medication for Opioid Use Disorder
Authors: Mistler Colleen B. , Idiong Christie I. , Copenhaver Michael M.
Published: February 2022

Background

Cognitive dysfunction is disproportionately prevalent among persons with opioid use disorder (OUD). Specific domains of cognitive dysfunction (attention, executive functioning, memory, and information processing) may significantly impede treatment outcomes among patients on medication for OUD (MOUD). This limits patient's ability to learn, retain, and apply information conveyed in behavioral intervention sessions. Evidence-based accommodation strategies have been integrated into behavioral interventions for other patient populations with similar cognitive profiles as persons with OUD; however, the feasibility and efficacy of these strategies have not yet been tested among patients on MOUD in a drug treatment setting.

Methods

We conducted a series of focus groups with 25 key informants (10 drug treatment providers and 15 patients on MOUD) in a drug treatment program in New Haven, CT. Using an inductive approach, we examined how cognitive dysfunction impedes participant's ability to retain, recall, and utilize HIV prevention information in the context of drug treatment.

Results

Two main themes capture the overall responses of the key informants: (1) cognitive dysfunction issues and (2) accommodation strategy suggestions. Subthemes of accommodation strategies involved suggestions about particular evidence-based strategies that should be integrated into behavioral interventions for persons on MOUD. Specific accommodation strategies included: use of a written agenda, mindfulness meditation, multi-modal presentation of information, hands-on demonstrations, and a formal closure/summary of sessions.

Conclusions

Accommodation strategies to compensate for cognitive dysfunction were endorsed by both treatment providers and patients on MOUD. These accommodation strategies have the potential to enhance the efficacy of behavioral interventions to reduce HIV transmission among persons on MOUD as well as addiction severity, and overdose.
Forensic Identification of Fentanyl and its Analogs by Electrochemical-Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (EC-SERS) for the Screening of Seized Drugs of Abuse
Authors: Ott Colby E. , Perez-Estebanez Martin , Hernandez Sheila , Kelly Kendra , Dalzell Kourtney A. , Arcos-Martinez M. Julia , Heras Aranzazu , Colina Alvaro , Arroyo Luis E.
Published: February 2022

Reliable identification of fentanyl and fentanyl analogs present in seized drug samples is imperative to the safety of first responders and laboratory personnel and informs the future analysis process and handling procedures. The electrochemical-surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (EC-SERS) method developed in this work allows the in-situ preparation of the SERS substrate providing a rapid, efficient, and accurate approach to detect fentanyl, even at low percent by weight concentrations common in seized drugs. Optimization of the electrochemical potentials suitable for the SERS substrate preparation and adsorption of the analyte was achieved using multi-pulse amperometric detection. This method demonstrated large enhancement of the SERS response. This method was applied to six fentanyl analogs with substitutions to the amide group, representing small changes in the fentanyl core structure. Identification of these analogs through differences in the EC-SERS spectra was evident. Interference studies incorporating analytes frequently encountered with fentanyl including heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, naltrexone, and naloxone were assessed and found to offer limited to no interference. The limits of detection of the fentanyl compounds were in the low to mid nanograms per milliliter range, with the most sensitive compound detected at 10 ng/ml. Application of the method to simulated drug mixtures was performed to determine fit-for-purpose. In all mixtures with fentanyl as the minor contributor, fentanyl was correctly identified, including mixture samples comprised of 5 and 1% fentanyl. This approach represents the first in-situ EC-SERS analysis of fentanyl and its analogs and provides accurate and efficient screening for fentanyl in seized drug samples.
Criterion Validity and Test-Retest Reliability of a Modified Version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire–Short Form (IPAQ-SF) in Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Kohlbrenner Dario , von Moos Seraina , Schmid-Mohler Gabriela
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Accelerometry, the clinically valued standard of physical activity monitoring, has limited acceptance in transplantation rehabilitation; therefore, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) self-report instrument is widely used. However, while the IPAQ's repeatability is good, its criterion validity is unsatisfactory. We hypothesized that adding a concise oral introduction would help overcome this shortfall.

Materials and Methods

This is a secondary analysis of a RCT in a sample of kidney transplant recipients that underwent observational follow-up. We assessed criterion validity of our modified version of the four-item IPAQ–Short Form (mIPAQ–SF) via Pearson, and test-retest reliability via intraclass correlation coefficients. The main difference in the new version is an oral pre-measurement introduction to the questionnaire's concepts. We compared our results with those of published studies.

Results

Post-kidney-transplantation data of 92 patients were analyzed. Across the four IPAQ-SF/mIPAQ–SF items, values of correlations between mIPAQ-SF responses and accelerometry records ranged from 0.07 (min in vigorous activity) to 0.35 (min in moderate activity) for criterion validity, and from 0.19 (days with moderate activity) to 0.58 (min in moderate activity) for test-retest reliability.

Discussion

Regarding moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, mIPAQ-SF self-reports' correlations to accelerometry records improved considerably on those of the IPAQ-SF (r = 0.18 vs. r = 0.33), i.e., improved criterion validity. We therefore conclude that a pre-measurement oral explanation of key IPAQ-SF/mIPAQ concepts enhances criterion validity regarding self-reported moderate-to-vigorous physical activity.
Post-termination Effects of Cover Crop Monocultures and Mixtures on Soil Inorganic Nitrogen and Microbial Communities on Two Organic Farms in Illinois
Authors: Lucadamo Eleanor E. , Holmes Ashley A. , Wortman Sam E. , Yannarell Anthony C.
Published: February 2022

Cover crops can continue to affect agricultural systems even after they have been terminated by influencing nitrogen dynamics and by altering soil microbial communities. These post-termination effects can influence soil fertility, weed pressure, and the dynamics of potential plant pathogens in the narrow window of time between cover crop termination and cash crop emergence. We evaluated the post-termination effects of 12 different spring-sown cover crop mixtures and monocultures on soil nitrogen and microbial communities on two different organic farms in Central Illinois (on Lawson silt loam soil) and Northern Illinois (on Virgil silt loam soil). In comparison to control plots with no cover crops, all cover crop treatments significantly reduced soil nitrate levels but increased the potentially mineralizable nitrogen pool following termination. Nitrate levels of cover crop plots approached those of controls after 2 and 4 weeks, respectively, but potentially mineralizable nitrogen levels in cover plots remained elevated for at least 4 weeks following termination. Monocultures of Brassica cover crops showed the greatest decrease in soil nitrate, while Brassicas and unplanted control plots containing high biomass of weeds showed the greatest increase in potentially mineralizable nitrogen in comparison to plant-free control plots. In contrast to their effect on soil nitrogen, cover crops had very limited impact on the composition of soil microbial communities. Overall microbial community composition varied across sites and years, and only soil fungi significantly responded to cover cropping treatments. Nevertheless, we found that some highly correlated groups of soil microbes showed significant responses to soil nitrate and to high plant biomass. Key members of these correlated groups included ammonia-oxidizing organisms and saprotrophic fungi. Our results suggest that cover crops may reduce the potential for springtime nitrogen leaching losses by retaining nitrogen in the soil organic pool, and they may also have impacts on the soil microbial community that are particularly relevant for nitrogen cycling and decomposition of plant residues.
Beyond Least Squares Assumptions: Quantile Regression Estimates of the Heterogeneity in Commercialization–The Case of Sunflower-Producing Households in North West Province, South Africa
Authors: Abafe Ejovi Akpojevwe , Oduniyi Oluwaseun Samuel , Tekana Sibongile Sylvia
Published: February 2022

The seamless, strong positive relationship across numerous nations, years, livestock, and crops on the welfare effects of commercialization highlights its importance in achieving the United Nations food security goals. This article examines the drivers of commercialization and heterogeneities existing at household levels. Here, the benefit of using a quantile regression technique is compared with the ordinary least square estimate to examine the relationships between smallholder commercialization and predictors. Using 177 observations from a single district in North West Province, South Africa, this paper empirically investigates the auxiliary benefit of the quantile regression technique as a strategic policy instrument to assess determinants and variations of agricultural commercialization. The principal finding of this study indicates that the degree of sunflower commercialization differs significantly across households in the study area. In addition, sunflower commercialization, at mean, is uniquely associated with hectares cultivated for sunflower production, household head, and market outlet. However, the emphasis of the ordinary least square is whether variation counts on average. This supposition may inaccurately depict the response distribution. For this reason, bootstrap quantile regression (QR) was implemented to tackle this limitation. The results of the QR indicate that heterogeneity in sunflower commercialization cannot be disregarded for the case of household size, market outlet, hectares cultivated for sunflower production, education, access to information, and gender. In addition, the market outlet and farming system appear to maintain their significant impact, although with varying magnitudes across all quantiles. Finally, the findings indicate that those in policy space promoting smallholder commercialization should be cognizant of the heterogeneity and potential benefits of efficacious sunflower promotion in South Africa and other African nations.
From Neo-Weberian to Hybrid Governance Models in Public Administration: Differences between State and Local Self-Government
Authors: Aristovnik Aleksander , Murko Eva , Ravšelj Dejan
Published: February 2022

Public administration and public governance play a crucial role in society today by ensuring that social needs are met. Due to the constantly changing environment, public governance models have transformed many times, creating differences in public governance practices among public administration institutions, with combinations of contradictory structures and principles that coexist. Accordingly, this paper aims to provide an overview of different public governance models, extract quantifiable elements based on models’ principles and examine the extent of layering of different governance models at different levels of public administration in the specific case of the Slovenian administration. Thus, the main focus is on identifying the differences in characteristics of public governance practices between state administration and local self-government. The results show state administration institutions are more strongly characterised by the Neo-Weberian model’s principles. In contrast, local self-government institutions are more oriented to managerial public governance and Digital-Era Governance practices. Public managers may regard the results as additional resources for democratic and efficient governing. At the same time, they may provide policymakers with in-depth insights to consider while determining the trajectories of future public administration reforms.
The Effect of 8-Hydroxyquinoline Sulphate and Gibberellic Acid on Postharvest Viola odorata L. Leaf Longevity
Authors: Ulczycka-Walorska Maria P. , Krzymińska Agnieszka
Published: February 2022

The aim of the study was to evaluate the postharvest longevity of cut leaves of Viola odorata and determine their usefulness as a florist green. The research also involved the study of the influence of chemical compounds used as plant preservatives on the longevity of leaves of V. odorata. The leaf stalks of V. odorata were soaked in water or conditioned in a 200 mg·dm−3 solution of 8–hydroxyquinoline sulphate, or a 50 or 100 mg·dm−3 solution of gibberellic acid. After one day, the leaves were kept in water or 200 mg·dm−3 of 8–hydroxyquinoline sulphate. The leaves of V. odorata had a longevity of about 31 days in water. Both the conditioning in gibberellic acid and 8–hydroxyquinoline sulphate and the maintenance in 8–hydroxyquinoline sulphate reduced the vase life of cut V. odorata leaves. The application of conditioners resulted in a significantly greater reduction of the leaf mass. The Soil Plant Analysis Development value of the leaves was best affected by conditioning them in 100 mg·dm−3 gibberellic acid followed by keeping them in water. Cut leaves of V. odorata with water treatment may be used as a florist green.
Is the Two-Line Hybrid Rice a Hindrance to the Efficient Use of Nitrogen Fertilizer in China?
Authors: Yang Zhiyuan , Cheng Qingyue , Lai Ruining , Zhu Yuemei , Zhang Jinyue , Shu Chuanhai , Li Feijie , Lv Tengfei , Sun Yongjian , Ma Jun , Li Na
Published: February 2022

Two-line hybrid rice (2LH) is accompanied by more nitrogen (N) input. To explore the difference in response of two-line and three-line hybrid rice (3LH) to N application, a three-year split-plot experiment was conducted. Three 2LHs and three 3LHs were set as main plots, and four N rates including 0 kg ha−1 (N0), 90 kg ha−1 (N90), 150 kg ha−1 (N150), and 210 kg ha−1 (N210) were set as subplots. 3LH had more panicles and yielded 7.95%, 6.31%, and 5.48% higher than 2LH in N0, N90, and N150, respectively. 2LH had a greater panicle weight in N210 and yielded 1.45% higher than 3LH. Leaf area index (LAI) had the greatest effect on the yields of both 2LH and 3LH, while the contribution of light extinction coefficient (K) was 46.35% and 12.80% those of LAI, respectively. The LAI, K, and radiation interception rate (RIR) of 2LH were smaller than those of 3LH in N0 and N90. The K of 2LH increased significantly as the N rate increased from 150 kg ha−1 to 210 kg ha−1, while that of 3LH showed no significant change, making the maximum RIR of 2LH greater than that of 3LH. 2LH, which intercepted more radiation through greater leaf extension to achieve higher yields, was able to use nitrogen fertilizer efficiently under a high N rate in China.
Metabolic Profiling Reveals That the Olfactory Cues in the Duck Uropygial Gland Potentially Act as Sex Pheromones
Authors: Liu Hehe , Yang Zhao , He Yifa , Yang Qinglan , Tang Qian , Yang Zhenghui , Qi Jingjing , Hu Qian , Bai Lili , Li Liang
Published: February 2022

The exchange of information between animals is crucial for maintaining social relations, individual survival, and reproduction, etc. The uropygial gland is a particular secretion gland found in birds. We speculated that uropygial gland secretions might act as a chemical signal responsible for sexual communication. We employed non-targeted metabolomic technology through liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry (LC-MS) to identifying duck uropygial gland secretions. We observed 11,311 and 14,321 chemical substances in the uropygial gland secretion for positive and negative ion modes, respectively. Based on their relative contents, principal component analysis (PCA) showed that gender significantly affects the metabolite composition of the duck uropygial gland. A total of 3831 and 4510 differential metabolites were further identified between the two sexes at the positive and negative ion modes, respectively. Of them, 139 differential metabolites were finally annotated. Among the 80 differential metabolites that reached an extremely significant difference (p < 0.01), we identified 24 volatile substances. Moreover, we further demonstrated that five kinds of volatile substances are highly repeatable in all testing ducks, including picolinic acid, 3-Hydroxypicolinic acid, indoleacetaldehyde, 3-hydroxymethylglutaric acid, and 3-methyl-2-oxovaleric acid. All these substances are significantly higher in males than in females, and their functions are involved in the reproduction processes of birds. Our data implied that these volatile substances act as sex pheromones and may be crucial olfactory clues for mate selection between birds. Our findings laid the foundation for future research on whether uropygial gland secretion can affect ducks’ reproduction and production.
H2O2/Ca2+/Zn2+ Complex Can Be Considered a “Collaborative Sensor” of the Mitochondrial Capacity?
Authors: Di Filippo Ester Sara , Checcaglini Franco , Fanò-Illic Giorgio , Fulle Stefania
Published: February 2022

In order to maintain a state of well-being, the cell needs a functional control center that allows it to respond to changes in the internal and surrounding environments and, at the same time, carry out the necessary metabolic functions. In this review, we identify the mitochondrion as such an “agora”, in which three main messengers are able to collaborate and activate adaptive response mechanisms. Such response generators, which we have identified as H2O2, Ca2+, and Zn2+, are capable of “reading” the environment and talking to each other in cooperation with the mitochondrion. In this manner, these messengers exchange information and generate a holistic response of the whole cell, dependent on its functional state. In this review, to corroborate this claim, we analyzed the role these actors, which in the review we call “sensors”, play in the regulation of skeletal muscle contractile capacities chosen as a model of crosstalk between Ca2+, Zn2+, and H2O2.
Spectral Shaping of a Superluminescent Diode for Terahertz Cross-Correlation Spectroscopy
Authors: Tybussek Kai-Henning , Kolpatzeck Kevin , Cherniak Vladyslav , Engelbrecht Sebastian , Fischer Bernd , Balzer Jan C.
Published: February 2022

After 20 years of terahertz cross-correlation spectroscopy (THz-CCS), the performance of the systems has been improved to practical relevance by reaching a bandwidth of ~2 THz. For the development of high-performance THz-CCS systems, it is necessary to get a deeper knowledge of the signal generation from incoherent light sources. In this work, the bandwidth, dynamic range, and peak-to-peak amplitude of a THz-CCS systems using a superluminescent diode as light source and a programmable optical filter for spectral shaping was investigated to obtain a better understanding of the relationship between the optical spectrum and the generated terahertz spectrum. By a periodic structuring of the continuous optical spectrum, an enhancement of the peak dynamic range of more than 10 dB was achieved with a bandwidth of 1.6 THz. The experimental results are confirmed by numerical simulations.
The Usefulness and Limitations of Ultrasonic Lamb Waves in Preventing the Failure of the Wind Turbine Blades
Authors: Draudvilienė Lina , Meškuotienė Asta , Raišutis Renaldas , Griškevičius Paulius , Stasiškienė Žaneta , Žukauskas Egidijus
Published: February 2022

The Lamb waves are named one of the promising solutions for future wind turbine blade (WTB) failure prevention. The compliance with safety assurance of WTBs by detecting structural changes during the manufacture and performing their monitoring during the service life are effective tools for environmental sustainability. This work presents the basic characteristics of Lamb waves and highlights two main unusual limitations—the dispersion and an infinite number of modes—as a great challenge that complicates the application of such waves. This requires the investigation and development of new signal processing methods (SPMs) for conducting accuracy assessments according to the requirements of ISO 17025. The general principles for the accuracy assessment of the signal processing methods applied to evaluate the dispersion of Lamb waves are presented here, and a suitable procedure for estimation of errors and uncertainties is proposed. These should facilitate the verification analysis of any signal processing method used for the dispersion evaluation of Lamb waves. This information allows determining parameters that define the measurement reliability and facilitates the application and utilisation of the proposed methods and their choice. Moreover, it is a necessary prerequisite for setting reliable testing, inspecting, and monitoring standards for WTBs certification.
Numerical Simulation of Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow at Different Stacking Modes in a Refrigerated Room: Application of Pyramidal Stacking Modes
Authors: Sun Yuyao , Wang Jinfeng , Xie Jing
Published: February 2022

By means of the porous media theory, computational fluid dynamic models of heat transfer and fluid flow at different pack stacking modes in a refrigerated room are elaborated. A practical case is simulated, where brick-shaped packs with aquatic products, partially frozen to 261.15 K, are loaded in the room to complete the freezing process down to 255.15 K, followed by long-term frozen food storage at the latter standard temperature. The best freezing completion effect (defined as the maximum reduction of the highest product temperature during a certain residence time) is achieved by using the pyramidal stacking mode whose upper package is in the center of four lower packages (UPF-PSM) with two piles. The highest temperature of aquatic products at a two-pile-UPF-PSM can be reduced from 261.15 to 255.60 K for a residence time of 24 h. Within the same time, the product temperature becomes most uniform at a UPF-PSM. Simultaneously, the best uniformity of flow distribution and highest efficiency of air circulation in a refrigerated room are obtained by using the neat stacking mode (NSM) during the long-term frozen storage. Furthermore, a comprehensive stacking mode is proposed (using UPF-PSM for freezing completion and NSM for long-term frozen storage), which enhances both the freezing completion effect and the efficiency of air circulation in the studied refrigerated room.
Key Recovery for Content Protection Using Ternary PUFs Designed with Pre-Formed ReRAM
Authors: Cambou Bertrand Francis , Jain Saloni
Published: February 2022

Physical unclonable functions, embedded in terminal devices, can be used as part of the recovery process of session keys that protect digital files. Such an approach is only valuable when the physical element offers sufficient tamper resistance. Otherwise, error correcting codes should be able to handle any variations arising from aging, and environmentally induced drifts of the terminal devices. The ternary cryptographic protocols presented in this paper, leverage the physical properties of resistive random-access memories operating at extremely low power in the pre-forming range to create an additional level of security, while masking the most unstable cells during key generation cycles. The objective is to reach bit error rates below the 10−3 range from elements subjected to drifts and environmental effects. We propose replacing the error correcting codes with light search engines, that use ciphertexts as helper data to reduce information leakage. The tamper-resistant schemes discussed in the paper include: (i) a cell-pairing differential method to hide the physical parameters; (ii) an attack detection system and a low power self-destruct mode; (iii) a multi-factor authentication, information control, and a one-time read-only function. In the experimental section, we describe how prototypes were fabricated to test and quantify the performance of the suggested methods, using static random access memory devices as the benchmark.
Nanoencapsulated Boron Foliar Supply Increased Expression of NIPs Aquaporins and BOR Transporters of In Vitro Ipomoea batatas Plants
Authors: Nicolas-Espinosa Juan , Garcia-Gomez Pablo , Rios Juan J. , Piqueras Abel , Bárzana Gloria , Carvajal Micaela
Published: February 2022

Nanoencapsulation with proteoliposomes from natural membranes has been proposed as a carrier for the highly efficient delivery of mineral nutrients into plant tissues. Since Boron deficiency occurred frequently in crops, and is an element with low movement in tissues, in this work, nanoencapsulated B vs free B was applied to in vitro sweet potato plants to investigate the regulation of B transporters (aquaporins and specific transporters). Additionally, an metabolomic analysis was performed, and mineral nutrient and pigment concentrations were determined. The results showed high increases in B concentration in leaves when B was applied as encapsulated, but also Fe and Mn concentration increased. Likewise, the metabolomics study showed that single carbohydrates of these plants could be related to the energy need for increasing the expression of most NIP aquaporins (NIP1;2, NIP1;3; NIP4;1, NIP4;2, NIP5;1, NIP6;1, and NIP7) and boron transporters (BOR2, BOR4 and BOR7;1). Therefore, the results were associated with the higher mobility of encapsulated B into leaves and the stimulation of transport into cells, since after applying encapsulated B, the aforementioned NIPs and BORs increased in expression.
Enhancement of Astaxanthin and Fatty Acid Production in Haematococcus pluvialis Using Strigolactone
Authors: Mahadi Rendi , Vahisan Laxmi Priya Sathiya , Ilhamsyah Dea Prianka Ayu , Kim Sangui , Kim Bolam , Lee Nakyeong , Oh You-Kwan
Published: February 2022

Improving the production rate of high-value nutraceutical compounds, such as astaxanthin and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), is important for the commercialization of Haematococcus pluvialis biorefineries. Here, the effects of a phytohormone, strigolactone analog rac-GR24, on cell growth and astaxanthin and fatty acid biosynthesis in H. pluvialis were investigated. Four concentrations (2, 4, 6, and 8 µM) of rac-GR24 were initially added during 30 days of photoautotrophic cultivation. The addition of rac-GR24 improved cell number density and chlorophyll concentration in H. pluvialis cultures compared to the control; the optimal concentration was 8 µM. Despite a slightly reduced astaxanthin content of 30-d-old cyst cells, the astaxanthin production (26.1 ± 1.7 mg/L) improved by 21% compared to the rac-GR24-free control (21.6 ± 1.5 mg/L), owing to improved biomass production. Notably, at the highest dosage of 8 µM rac-GR24, the total fatty acid content of the treated H. pluvialis cells (899.8 pg/cell) was higher than that of the untreated cells (762.5 pg/cell), resulting in a significant increase in the total fatty acid production (361.6 ± 48.0 mg/L; 61% improvement over the control). The ratio of PUFAs, such as linoleic (C18:2) and linolenic (C18:3) acids, among total fatty acids was high (41.5–44.6% w/w) regardless of the rac-GR24 dose.
A Drug Stability Study Using Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering on Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Yilmaz Hulya , Culha Mustafa
Published: February 2022

Pharmaceutical product quality is of vital importance for patient safety. Impurities and potential degradation products can cause changes in chemistry, pharmacological and toxicological properties by having a significant impact on product quality and safety. Stress-testing (forced degradation) studies of pharmaceutical preparations became necessary to assure degradation mechanisms and potential degradation products. Consequently, it is crucial to understand the nature of possible degradation products. Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is a powerful vibrational spectroscopic technique that can provide valuable information about changes in a molecular structure with its intrinsic finger-print property. In this study, a forced degradation study was conducted on pemetrexed (PMT), an antifolate chemotherapy drug, in order to identify its likely chemical degradation products. The degradation mechanism of PMT was investigated under various experimental conditions; basic (0.1 M NaOH), acidic (0.1 M HCl), and oxidative (3% H2O2v/v). We used silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) of average size 60 nm as SERS substrates. The study shows that SERS can be a fast and reliable technique to study the stability and possible degradation mechanisms of drugs under several different conditions.
FENGYUN-4A Advanced Geosynchronous Radiation Imager Layered Precipitable Water Vapor Products’ Comprehensive Evaluation Based on Quality Control System
Authors: Zhang Yong , Li Jun , Li Zhenglong , Zheng Jing , Wu Danqing , Zhao Hongyu
Published: February 2022

A physical retrieval algorithm has been developed for deriving the layered precipitable water vapor (LPWs) product from infrared radiances of the Advanced Geosynchronous Radiation Imager (AGRI) onboard FengYun-4A (FY-4A), the first of the new generation of Chinese geostationary weather satellites (FengYun-4, or FY-4 Series). The FY-4A AGRI LPWs are evaluated with different types of reference datasets based on Quality Control System (QCS), including those from Himawari-8 AHI (Advanced Himawari Imager), MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer), Radiosonde, ERA5 (European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts Reanalysis v5), NCEP (National Centers for Environmental Prediction) reanalysis and CMA (China Meteorological Administration) forecast product from global medium range numerical weather prediction (NWP) system. QCS is one of the important components of FY-4A ground segment, which mainly focuses on the satellite products’ evaluation and validation. It is found that the AGRI LPW product has a good agreement with different evaluating sources and the quality is favorable and stable. With the capability of frequent (5-min interval) observations over the East Asia and Western Pacific regions, the AGRI LPW products can be used to investigate the atmospheric temporal and spatial variations in the pre-landfall environment for typhoons. The QCS is a useful tool to monitor, evaluate, and validate the AGRI LPW products.
Evaluation of Empirical Atmospheric Models Using Swarm-C Satellite Data
Authors: Yin Lirong , Wang Lei , Zheng Wenfeng , Ge Lijun , Tian Jiawei , Liu Yan , Yang Bo , Liu Shan
Published: February 2022

Swarm-C satellite, a new instrument for atmospheric study, has been the focus of many studies to evaluate its usage and accuracy. This paper takes the Swarm-C satellite as a research object to verify the Swarm-C accelerometer’s inversion results. This paper uses the two-row orbital elements density inversion to verify the atmospheric density accuracy results of the Swarm-C satellite accelerometer. After the accuracy of the satellite data is verified, this paper conducts comparative verification and empirical atmospheric model evaluation experiments based on the Swarm-C accelerometer’s inversion results. After comparing with the inversion results of the Swarm-C semi-major axis attenuation method, it is found that the atmospheric density obtained by inversion using the Swarm-C accelerometer is more dynamic and real-time. It shows that with more available data, the Swarm-C satellite could be a new high-quality instrument for related studies along with the well-established satellites. After evaluating the performance of the JB2008 and NRLMSISE-00 empirical atmospheric models using the Swarm-C accelerometer inversion results, it is found that the accuracy and real-time performance of the JB2008 model at the altitude where the Swarm-C satellite is located are better than the NRLMSISE-00 model.
Leaf Fluxes of Carbon Dioxide, Methane and Biogenic Volatile Organic Compounds of the Urban Trees Platanus × acerifolia and Schinus molle in Santiago, Chile
Authors: Farías Iván , Préndez Margarita , Bown Horacio E.
Published: February 2022

This study assessed leaf fluxes of CO2, CH4 and biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOC) for two common urban tree species, Platanus × acerifolia (exotic) and Schinus molle (native), widely distributed in Santiago, Chile. The emission factors (EF) and the Photochemical Ozone Creation Index (POCI) for S. molle and P. × acerifolia were estimated. The global EF was 6.4 times higher for P. × acerifolia compared with S. molle, with similar rates of photosynthesis for both species. Isoprene represented more than 86% of the total BVOCs leaf fluxes being 7.6 times greater for P. × acerifolia than S. molle. For P. × acerifolia, BVOCs represented 2% of total carbon fixation while representing 0.24% for S. molle. These results may suggest that plant species growing outside their ecological range may exhibit greater BVOCs leaf fluxes, proportional to photosynthesis, compared to well-adapted ones. The results found may contribute to better urban forest planning.
A New Equilibrium Version of Ekeland’s Variational Principle and Its Applications
Authors: Feng Yuqiang , Xie Juntao , Wu Bo
Published: February 2022

In this note, a new equilibrium version of Ekeland’s variational principle is presented. It is a modification and promotion of previous results. Subsequently, the principle is applied to discuss the equilibrium points for binary functions and the fixed points for nonlinear mappings.
Positive Numerical Approximation of Integro-Differential Epidemic Model
Authors: Messina Eleonora , Pezzella Mario , Vecchio Antonia
Published: February 2022

In this paper, we study a dynamically consistent numerical method for the approximation of a nonlinear integro-differential equation modeling an epidemic with age of infection. The discrete scheme is based on direct quadrature methods with Gregory convolution weights and preserves, with no restrictive conditions on the step-length of integration h, some of the essential properties of the continuous system. In particular, the numerical solution is positive and bounded and, in cases of interest in applications, it is monotone. We prove an order of convergence theorem and show by numerical experiments that the discrete final size tends to its continuous equivalent as h tends to zero.
Bounded Sets in Topological Spaces
Authors: Bors Cristina , Ferrer María , Hernández Salvador
Published: February 2022

Let G be a monoid that acts on a topological space X by homeomorphisms such that there is a point x0∈X with GU=X for each neighbourhood U of x0. A subset A of X is said to be G-bounded if for each neighbourhood U of x0 there is a finite subset F of G with A⊆FU. We prove that for a metrizable and separable G-space X, the bounded subsets of X are completely determined by the bounded subsets of any dense subspace. We also obtain sufficient conditions for a G-space X to be locally G-bounded, which apply to topological groups. Thereby, we extend some previous results accomplished for locally convex spaces and topological groups.
Oncometabolites—A Link between Cancer Cells and Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Baryła Maksymilian , Semeniuk-Wojtaś Aleksandra , Róg Letycja , Kraj Leszek , Małyszko Maciej , Stec Rafał
Published: February 2022

The tumor microenvironment is the space between healthy tissues and cancer cells, created by the extracellular matrix, blood vessels, infiltrating cells such as immune cells, and cancer-associated fibroblasts. These components constantly interact and influence each other, enabling cancer cells to survive and develop in the host organism. Accumulated intermediate metabolites favoring dysregulation and compensatory responses in the cell, called oncometabolites, provide a method of communication between cells and might also play a role in cancer growth. Here, we describe the changes in metabolic pathways that lead to accumulation of intermediate metabolites: lactate, glutamate, fumarate, and succinate in the tumor and their impact on the tumor microenvironment. These oncometabolites are not only waste products, but also link all types of cells involved in tumor survival and progression. Oncometabolites play a particularly important role in neoangiogenesis and in the infiltration of immune cells in cancer. Oncometabolites are also associated with a disrupted DNA damage response and make the tumor microenvironment more favorable for cell migration. The knowledge summarized in this article will allow for a better understanding of associations between therapeutic targets and oncometabolites, as well as the direct effects of these particles on the formation of the tumor microenvironment. In the future, targeting oncometabolites could improve treatment standards or represent a novel method for fighting cancer.
Unexpected Relationships: Periodontal Diseases: Atherosclerosis–Plaque Destabilization? From the Teeth to a Coronary Event
Authors: Czerniuk Maciej R. , Surma Stanisław , Romańczyk Monika , Nowak Jacek M. , Wojtowicz Andrzej , Filipiak Krzysztof J.
Published: February 2022

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and periodontal disease (PD) are global health problems. High frequency of ASCVD is associated with the spread of many risk factors, including poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, obesity, smoking, hypertension, chronic kidney disease, hypertension, hyperhomocysteinemia, hyperuricemia, excessive stress, virus infection, genetic predisposition, etc. The pathogenesis of ASCVD is complex, while inflammation plays an important role. PD is a chronic, multifactorial inflammatory disease caused by dysbiosis of the oral microbiota, causing the progressive destruction of the bone and periodontal tissues surrounding the teeth. The main etiological factor of PD is the bacteria, which are capable of activating the immune response of the host inducing an inflammatory response. PD is associated with a mixed microbiota, with the evident predominance of anaerobic bacteria and microaerophilic. The “red complex” is an aggregate of three oral bacteria: Tannerella forsythia Treponema denticola and Porphyromonas gingivalis responsible for severe clinical manifestation of PD. ASCVD and PD share a number of risk factors, and it is difficult to establish a causal relationship between these diseases. The influence of PD on ASCVD should be treated as a factor increasing the risk of atherosclerotic plaque destabilization and cardiovascular events. The results of observational studies indicate that PD significantly increases the risk of ASCVD. In interventional studies, PD treatment was found to have a beneficial effect in the prevention and control of ASCVD. This comprehensive review summarizes the current knowledge of the relationship between PD and ASCVD.
Systemic Treatment with Pioglitazone Reverses Vision Loss in Preclinical Glaucoma Models
Authors: Zeng Huilan , Dumitrescu Alina V. , Wadkins David , Elwood Benjamin W. , Gramlich Oliver W. , Kuehn Markus H.
Published: February 2022

Neuroinflammation significantly contributes to the pathophysiology of several neurodegenerative diseases. This is also the case in glaucoma and may be a reason why many patients suffer from progressive vision loss despite maximal reduction in intraocular pressure. Pioglitazone is an agonist of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) whose pleiotrophic activities include modulation of cellular energy metabolism and reduction in inflammation. In this study we employed the DBA2/J mouse model of glaucoma with chronically elevated intraocular pressure to investigate whether oral low-dose pioglitazone treatment preserves retinal ganglion cell (RGC) survival. We then used an inducible glaucoma model in C57BL/6J mice to determine visual function, pattern electroretinographs, and tracking of optokinetic reflex. Our findings demonstrate that pioglitazone treatment does significantly protect RGCs and prevents axonal degeneration in the glaucomatous retina. Furthermore, treatment preserves and partially reverses vision loss in spite of continuously elevated intraocular pressure. These data suggest that pioglitazone may provide treatment benefits for those glaucoma patients experiencing continued vision loss.
A Comparative Evaluation of the Structural and Dynamic Properties of Insect Odorant Binding Proteins
Authors: Tzotzos George
Published: February 2022

Insects devote a major part of their metabolic resources to the production of odorant binding proteins (OBPs). Although initially, these proteins were implicated in the solubilisation, binding and transport of semiochemicals to olfactory receptors, it is now recognised that they may play diverse, as yet uncharacterised, roles in insect physiology. The structures of these OBPs, the majority of which are known as “classical” OBPs, have shed some light on their potential functional roles. However, the dynamic properties of these proteins have received little attention despite their functional importance. Structural dynamics are encoded in the native protein fold and enable the adaptation of proteins to substrate binding. This paper provides a comparative review of the structural and dynamic properties of OBPs, making use of sequence/structure analysis, statistical and theoretical physics-based methods. It provides a new layer of information and additional methodological tools useful in unravelling the relationship between structure, dynamics and function of insect OBPs. The dynamic properties of OBPs, studied by means of elastic network models, reflect the similarities/dissimilarities observed in their respective structures and provides insights regarding protein motions that may have important implications for ligand recognition and binding. Furthermore, it was shown that the OBPs studied in this paper share conserved structural ‘core’ that may be of evolutionary and functional importance.