bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Postoperative Ovarian Reserve Function Following Laparoscopic Hysterectomy and Laparoscopic Myomectomy: A Prospective Comparative Pilot Study
Authors: Cho Hye-Yon , Kyung Min Sun
Published: July 2021

This prospective study aimed to investigate the impact of laparoscopic hysterectomy (LH) and laparoscopic myomectomy (LM) on ovarian reserve by comparing serum anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) changes following surgery. Serum AMH levels were measured preoperatively (AMH0), and 7 days (AMH1), 2 months (AMH2), and 6 months (AMH3) after LH and LM in 79 premenopausal women (LH = 59; LM = 20). AMH0, AMH1, AMH2, and AMH3 were significantly higher in the LM group than in the LH group (p = 0.012, 0.001, 0.001, and 0.015, respectively). Since there are differences in indications between myomectomy and hysterectomy, logically, women who underwent myomectomy were younger and had higher AMH baseline levels. In addition, AMH changes at 7 days postoperatively from the baseline level were significantly decreased in the LH group compared to those in the LM group (p = 0.042). However, AMH changes at 2 months and 6 months postoperatively, compared to the baseline level, were not different between the two groups (p = 0.053 and 0.752, respectively). Moreover, the significant decrease in AMH (more than 60% decrease from the baseline level) was not different at 7 days, 2 months, and 6 months postoperatively between the two groups (p = 0.415, 487, and 0.364, respectively). Our data suggest that serum AMH levels were significantly decreased directly after LH, which suggests that LH may have adverse effects on ovarian reserve. However, mid-term follow-up showed that the damaged ovarian reserve in women who underwent LH may be partially restored in 6 months.
Atypia and Follicular Lesions of Undetermined Significance in Subsequent Biopsy Result: What Clinicians Need to Know
Authors: Kaliszewski Krzysztof , Diakowska Dorota , Rzeszutko Marta , Nowak Łukasz , Tokarczyk Urszula , Rudnicki Jerzy
Published: July 2021

Atypia and follicular lesions of undetermined significance (AUS/FLUS) is the most controversial category of The Bethesda System. The risk of malignancy (ROM) in this group is estimated as 5–15%, however, the occurrence of two or more subsequent biopsy results with AUS/FLUS diagnosis makes these clinical situations more complex. We evaluated the ROM and prognostic value of aggressive ultrasound (US) features in 342 patients with thyroid nodules (TNs) with subsequent biopsy results of AUS/FLUS. We assessed US features and compared them with the final histopathological diagnosis. Overall, 121 (35.4%) individuals after first AUS/FLUS diagnosis underwent surgery and 221 (64.6%) patients had repeated biopsies. The ROM after first, second, and third biopsies with subsequent AUS/FLUS diagnosis were 7.4%, 18.5%, and 38.4% respectively. We demonstrated significantly higher rates of occurrence of aggressive US features in patients with malignancy (p < 0.0001). The age <55 years old was also a significant risk factor for TC (p = 0.044). Significant associations were found between aggressive US features and malignancy in patients after first diagnosis of AUS/FLUS (p < 0.05). The juxtaposition of US features with the number of biopsy repetitions of TN with consecutive AUS/FLUS diagnoses may simplify the decision-making process in surgical management. Two or three consecutive biopsy results with AUS/FLUS diagnosis increases the ROM.
DCNet: Noise-Robust Convolutional Neural Networks for Degradation Classification on Ancient Documents
Authors: Arnia Fitri , Saddami Khairun , Munadi Khairul
Published: July 2021

Analysis of degraded ancient documents is challenging due to the severity and combination of degradation present in a single image. Ancient documents also suffer from additional noise during the digitalization process, particularly when digitalization is done using low-specification devices and/or under poor illumination conditions. The noises over the degraded ancient documents certainly cause a troublesome document analysis. In this paper, we propose a new noise-robust convolutional neural network (CNN) architecture for degradation classification of noisy ancient documents, which is called a degradation classification network (DCNet). DCNet was constructed based on the ResNet101, MobileNetV2, and ShuffleNet architectures. Furthermore, we propose a new self-transition layer following DCNet. We trained the DCNet using (1) noise-free document images and (2) heavy-noise (zero mean Gaussian noise (ZMGN) and speckle) document images. Then, we tested the resulted models with document images containing different levels of ZMGN and speckle noise. We compared our results to three CNN benchmarking architectures, namely MobileNet, ShuffleNet, and ResNet101. In general, the proposed architecture performed better than MobileNet, ShuffleNet, ResNet101, and conventional machine learning (support vector machine and random forest), particularly for documents with heavy noise.
Noble Pen Shell (Pinna nobilis) Mortalities along the Eastern Adriatic Coast with a Study of the Spreading Velocity
Authors: Mihaljević Željko , Pavlinec Željko , Zupičić Ivana Giovanna , Oraić Dražen , Popijač Aleksandar , Pećar Osvin , Sršen Ivan , Benić Miroslav , Habrun Boris , Zrnčić Snježana
Published: July 2021

Noble pen shells (Pinna nobilis) along the Eastern Adriatic coast were affected by mass mortalities similarly to the populations across the Mediterranean basin. Samples of live animals and organs originating from sites on Mljet Island on the south and the Istrian peninsula on the north of the Croatian Adriatic coast were analyzed using histology and molecular techniques to detect the presence of the previously described Haplosporidium pinnae and Mycobacterium spp. as possible causes of these mortalities. To obtain more information on the pattern of the spread of the mortalities, a study was undertaken in Mljet National Park, an area with a dense population of noble pen shells. The results of the diagnostic analysis and the velocity of the spread of the mortalities showed a significant correlation between increases in water temperature and the onset of mortality. Moderate to heavy lesions of the digestive glands were observed in specimens infected with H. pinnae. A phylogenetic analysis of the detected Haplosporidium pinnae showed an identity of 99.7 to 99.8% with isolates from other Mediterranean areas, while isolated Mycobacterium spp. showed a higher heterogeneity among isolates across the Mediterranean. The presence of Mycobacterium spp. in clinically healthy animals a few months before the onset of mortality imposes the need for further clarification of its role in mortality events.
Success Factors and Barriers in Combining Personalized Medicine and Patient Centered Care in Breast Cancer. Results from a Systematic Review and Proposal of Conceptual Framework
Authors: de Belvis Antonio , Pellegrino Rossella , Castagna Carolina , Morsella Alisha , Pastorino Roberta , Boccia Stefania
Published: July 2021

Breast Cancer (BC) is the leading cause of death due to cancer in women. Ensuring equitable, quality-assured and effective care has increased the complexity of BC management. This systematic review reports on the state-of-the art of available literature investigating the enactment of personalized treatment and patient-centered care models in BC clinical practice, building a framework for the delivery of personalized BC care within a Patient-Centered model. Databases were searched for articles (from the inception to December 2020) reporting on Patient-Centered or Personalized Medicine BC management models, assessing success factors or limits. Out of 1885 records, 25 studies were included in our analysis. The main success factors include clearly defined roles and responsibilities within a multi-professional collaboration, appropriate training programs and adequate communication strategies and adopting a universal genomic language to improve patients’ involvement in the decision-making process. Among detected barriers, delays in the use of genetic testing were linked to the lack of public reimbursement schemes and of clear indications in timing and appropriateness. Overall, both care approaches are complementary and necessary to effectively improve BC patient management. Our framework attempts to bridge the gap in assigning a central role played by shared decision-making, still scarcely investigated in literature.
Impacts of Infectious Disease Outbreaks on Firm Performance and Risk: The Forest Industries during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Størdal Ståle , Lien Gudbrand , Trømborg Erik
Published: July 2021

We examine the financial performance of the forest products industry in the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, employing data for publicly trading companies in the industry globally. We first examine the market investor reaction to the declaration of a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) in March 2020 by conducting an event-study analysis. Then, we analyze medium-term changes in stock returns and their systematic risk by an econometric estimation of the capital asset pricing model. Our event-study analysis of the forest products industry shows that the forestry subsector was impacted more than the paper subsector when the WHO declared the pandemic. The effect was most prominent in North America. We find that the systematic risk for the forestry subsector tended to increase during 2020, until October. Again, this effect was most clear in North America. Conversely, the impact on the paper subsector was more stable.
A Neural Network Monte Carlo Approximation for Expected Utility Theory
Authors: Zhu Yichen , Escobar-Anel Marcos
Published: July 2021

This paper proposes an approximation method to create an optimal continuous-time portfolio strategy based on a combination of neural networks and Monte Carlo, named NNMC. This work is motivated by the increasing complexity of continuous-time models and stylized facts reported in the literature. We work within expected utility theory for portfolio selection with constant relative risk aversion utility. The method extends a recursive polynomial exponential approximation framework by adopting neural networks to fit the portfolio value function. We developed two network architectures and explored several activation functions. The methodology was applied on four settings: a 4/2 stochastic volatility (SV) model with two types of market price of risk, a 4/2 model with jumps, and an Ornstein–Uhlenbeck 4/2 model. In only one case, the closed-form solution was available, which helps for comparisons. We report the accuracy of the various settings in terms of optimal strategy, portfolio performance and computational efficiency, highlighting the potential of NNMC to tackle complex dynamic models.
Human–Robot Collaboration Trends and Safety Aspects: A Systematic Review
Authors: Arents Janis , Abolins Valters , Judvaitis Janis , Vismanis Oskars , Oraby Aly , Ozols Kaspars
Published: July 2021

Smart manufacturing and smart factories depend on automation and robotics, whereas human–robot collaboration (HRC) contributes to increasing the effectiveness and productivity of today’s and future factories. Industrial robots especially in HRC settings can be hazardous if safety is not addressed properly. In this review, we look at the collaboration levels of HRC and what safety actions have been used to address safety. One hundred and ninety-three articles were identified from which, after screening and eligibility stages, 46 articles were used for the extraction stage. Predefined parameters such as: devices, algorithms, collaboration level, safety action, and standards used for HRC were extracted. Despite close human and robot collaboration, 25% of all reviewed studies did not use any safety actions, and more than 50% did not use any standard to address safety issues. This review shows HRC trends and what kind of functionalities are lacking in today’s HRC systems. HRC systems can be a tremendously complex process; therefore, proper safety mechanisms must be addressed at an early stage of development.
An Alternative Method for the Generation of Consistent Mapping to Monitoring Land Cover Change: A Case Study of Guerrero State in Mexico
Authors: Vázquez-Jiménez René , Romero-Calcerrada Raúl , Ramos-Bernal Rocío N. , Arrogante-Funes Patricia , Novillo Carlos J.
Published: July 2021

Land cover is crucial for ecosystems and human activities. Therefore, monitoring land cover changes has become relevant in recent years. This study proposes an alternative method based on conventional change detection techniques combined with maximum likelihood (MaxLike) supervised classification of satellite images to generate consistent Land Use/Land Cover (LULC) maps. The novelty of this method is that the supervised classification is applied in an earlier stage of change detection exclusively to identified dynamics zones. The LULC categories of the stable zones are acquired from an initial date’s previously elaborated base map. The methodology comprised the use of Landsat images from 2011 and 2016, applying the Sun Canopy Sensor (SCS + C) topographic correction model enhanced through the classification of slopes, using derived topographic corrected images with NDVI, and employing Tasseled Cap (TC) Brightness-Greenness-Wetness indices and Principal Components (PCs). The study incorporated a comparative analysis of the consistency of the LULC mapping, which is generated based on control areas. The results show that the proposed method, although slightly laborious, is viable and fully automatable. The generated LULC map is accurate and robust and achieves a Kappa concordance index of 87.53. Furthermore, the boundary consistency was visually superior to the conventional classified map.
Polynuclearity as a Spatial Measure of Urban Sprawl: Testing the Percentiles Approach
Authors: Lityński Piotr , Serafin Piotr
Published: July 2021

Polynuclearity and polycentricity are spatial phenomena which overlap each other in the context of urban sprawl, and this sometimes hinders the possibility of clearly distinguishing the two. Hence, the basic goal of the article is to indicate the differences between polycentricity and polynuclearity as well as their conceptualization and operationalization as urban sprawl features. The article indicates that the main differences between polycentricity and polynuclearity boil down to functional connections. However, empirical exemplification was made in relation to the agglomeration of Cracow, Poland using an urban morphology approach based on 1 km2 square grids. Among the conclusions, it can be found that the identification of the central core is an important stage of research. If at least two cores appear then polynuclearity is identified and then polycentricity can be further identified. Testing of four mathematical approaches to identifying the central core showed that the most accurate results are given by the 95th percentile, i.e., the grids within the 95th percentile of building density qualify for the central core. It is also necessary to remove grids with extremely high building density from the analyses.
Determination of the Natural Frequency of the Model Spindle System with Active Regulation of the Initial Tension of the Bearings
Authors: Turek Paweł
Published: July 2021

This article presents a test stand with a model high-speed spindle equipped with a system of active control of the preload of the bearings. This preload was changed by means of three piezo actuators. The work presents the results of tests during which the commercial Abacus measuring equipment from Data Physics was used. Its application has shown that the spindle system with angular contact ball bearings is responsive to changes in the preload value of these bearings. The change preload resulted in a change in the value of the resonant frequency of the system and its amplitude. This article presents the dependence between the variable value of the preload of the bearings and the corresponding values of the resonance frequency and amplitude of the spindle system. The use of the Abacus measuring equipment for testing allowed for the preparation of a model showing the dynamic behavior of the spindle. The system was forced by a signal with known parameters, and the response to this excitation was recorded at eleven points located on the surface of the entire spindle.
Evaluation of Immediate Implantation and Provisionalization Combined with Guided Bone Regeneration by a Flap Approach in the Maxillary Esthetic Zone: A Retrospective Controlled Study
Authors: Su Zhenya , Chen Yuan , Wang Maoxia , Mo Anchun
Published: July 2021

The aim of this research was too compare the thickness change of labial contour and bone tissues, as well as some biological complications of immediate implantation with and without immediate provisionalization for a single anterior maxilla presenting a vertical defect on labial bone with the need of guided bone regeneration (GBR) by a flap approach. A total of 40 single implants were placed in 40 patients into fresh extraction sockets of the anterior maxilla with a vertical defect on the labial bone (<4 mm). Simultaneously, GBR was conducted at the sites by a flap approach, and the implants were given immediate or delayed provisionalization. The thickness change of bone tissues during six-month evaluation and labial contour during three and six-month follow-up were measured. Complications such as implant and restoration survival rates, infection as well as wound exposure were also evaluated at six months postoperatively. After six months, the mean thickness losses in labial bone were 0.9040, 0.8050, 0.7165, 0.5285 and 0.5335 mm at five different sites in immediate provisionalization group, and 0.8780, 0.8605, 0.7560, 0.5900 and 0.6300 mm, respectively, in delayed provisionalization group, showing no significant difference between the groups at all measurement sites. Although the labial contour changes of the two groups were similar at most sites, the values at 1 and 2 mm above the implant neck remained significantly lower in the immediate provisionalization group at three and six months postoperatively. No complications occurred during the follow-up time. Based on the limitation of this study, the immediate implantation combined with GBR, flap operation and immediate provisionalization obtained acceptable outcomes for a single anterior maxilla with vertical defect on the labial bone, but more long-term research with a larger sample are urgently needed in the future.
One Concave-Convex Inequality and Its Consequences
Authors: Jakšetić Julije
Published: July 2021

Our starting point is an integral inequality that involves convex, concave and monotonically increasing functions. We provide some interpretations of the inequality, in terms of both probability and terms of linear functionals, from which we further generate completely monotone functions and means. The latter application is seen from the perspective of monotonicity and convexity.
On-Off Intermittency in a Three-Species Food Chain
Authors: Vissio Gabriele , Provenzale Antonello
Published: July 2021

The environment affects population dynamics through multiple drivers. Here we explore a simplified version of such influence in a three-species food chain, making use of the Hastings–Powell model. This represents an idealized resource–consumer–predator chain, or equivalently, a vegetation–host–parasitoid system. By stochastically perturbing the value of some parameters in this dynamical system, we observe dramatic modifications in the system behavior. In particular, we show the emergence of on–off intermittency, i.e., an irregular alternation between stable phases and sudden bursts in population size, which hints towards a possible conceptual description of population outbursts grounded into an environment-driven mechanism.
Coupling Technique of Haar Wavelet Transform and Variational Iteration Method for a Nonlinear Option Pricing Model
Authors: Xing Ruyi , Liu Meng , Meng Kexin , Mei Shuli
Published: July 2021

Compared with the linear Black–Scholes model, nonlinear models are constructed through taking account of more practical factors, such as transaction cost, and so it is difficult to find an exact analytical solution. Combining the Haar wavelet integration method, which can transform the partial differential equation into the system of algebraic equations, the homotopy perturbation method, which can linearize the nonlinear problems, and the variational iteration method, which can solve the large system of algebraic equations efficiently, a novel numerical method for the nonlinear Black–Scholes model is proposed in this paper. Compared with the traditional methods, it has higher efficiency and calculation precision.
Enhancement of the Al/Mg Dissimilar Friction Stir Welding Joint Strength with the Assistance of Ultrasonic Vibration
Authors: Bai Yinghao , Su Hao , Wu Chuansong
Published: July 2021

The assistance of ultrasonic vibration during the friction stir welding (FSW) process has been verified as an effective approach for the improvement of joint strength. In the present study, experimentation on Al/Mg dissimilar alloys in butt joint configuration is implemented by employing FSW with and without the assistance of ultrasonic vibration. An optimized tool shoulder diameter of 12 mm is utilized, and the ultrasonic vibration is applied perpendicularly onto the tool along the welding direction, which is named UVaFSW. The results of joint appearance and macrostructure, characteristics of the intermetallic compounds (IMCs), as well as joint strength and fracture appearance are compared between Al/Mg FSW joints with and without ultrasonic vibration. It is demonstrated that the material intermixing between Al and Mg alloys is substantially strengthened in the UVaFSW joint compared with that in the FSW joint. Additionally, the ultrasonic vibration can be beneficial for the reduction of IMC thickness, as well as the formation of intermittently distributed IMC phases at the Al–Mg bonding interface. Consequently, the mechanical properties of Al/Mg FSW joints are significantly improved with the assistance of ultrasonic vibration. The maximum ultimate tensile strength is 206 MPa at tool rotation speed of 800 rpm and welding speed of 50 mm/min for the Al/Mg UVaFSW joint.
Effective Pair Interactions and Structure in Liquid Noble Metals within Wills-Harrison and Bretonnet-Silbert Models
Authors: Dubinin Nikolay , Ryltsev Roman
Published: July 2021

Recently, for calculating the effective pair interactions in liquid transition metals, we have developed an approach which includes the Wills-Harrison and Bretonnet-Silbert models as limit cases. Here, we apply this approach to noble liquid metals. The dependencies of pair potentials and corresponding MD-simulated pair correlation functions in pure liquid Cu, Ag and Au on the portion of the non-diagonal (with respect to the magnet quantum number) d-d-electron couplings in the metal under consideration are studied. The model provides a good agreement with experimental and ab initio data for pair correlation functions, structure factors and velocity autocorrelation functions.
On the Unique Microstructure and Properties of Ultra-High Carbon Bearing Steel Alloyed with Different Aluminum Contents
Authors: Bai Jiaojiao , Zhang Wanli , Wang Yuhui , Wang Cunyu , Chen Xingpin , Shi Zhiyue , Wang Hui , Cao Wenquan
Published: July 2021

In this study, ultra-high-carbon steels with 1.4% carbon content alloyed with three different aluminum contents, 2.0%, 4.0% and 6.0%, were studied on their tempering stability and temperature resistance. The results showed that the addition of Al significantly enhanced the tempering stability and temperature resistance of ultra-high-carbon steel. The addition of Al inhibited the transformation of ε-carbide to cementite, suppressed the transition of martensite to ferrite and thus, endowed ultra-high carbon steels to maintain very high hardness during tempering within a wide range of temperature up to 500 °C. The present work provides a useful basis on which to develop bearing steel materials with low density and high hardness.
Potential Probiotic Bacillus subtilis Isolated from a Novel Niche Exhibits Broad Range Antibacterial Activity and Causes Virulence and Metabolic Dysregulation in Enterotoxic E. coli
Authors: Sudan Sudhanshu , Flick Robert , Nong Linda , Li Julang
Published: July 2021

Microbial life in extreme environments, such as deserts and deep oceans, is thought to have evolved to overcome constraints of nutrient availability, temperature, and suboptimal hygiene environments. Isolation of probiotic bacteria from such niche may provide a competitive edge over traditional probiotics. Here, we tested the survival, safety, and antimicrobial effect of a recently isolated and potential novel strain of Bacillus subtilis (CP9) from desert camel in vitro. Antimicrobial assays were performed via radial diffusion, agar spot, and co-culture assays. Cytotoxic analysis was performed using pig intestinal epithelial cells (IPEC-J2). Real time-PCR was performed for studying the effect on ETEC virulence genes and metabolomic analysis was performed using LC-MS. The results showed that CP9 cells were viable in varied bile salts and in low pH environments. CP9 showed no apparent cytotoxicity in IPEC-J2 cells. CP9 displayed significant bactericidal effect against Enterotoxic E. coli (ETEC), Salmonella Typhimurium, and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in a contact inhibitory fashion. CP9 reduced the expression of ETEC virulent genes during a 5 h co-culture. Additionally, a unique emergent metabolic signature in co-culture samples was observed by LC-MS analysis. Our findings indicate that CP9 exhibits a strong antibacterial property and reveals potential mechanisms behind.
Screening New Xylanase Biocatalysts from the Mangrove Soil Diversity
Authors: Ivaldi Corinne , Daou Mariane , Vallon Laurent , Bisotto Alexandra , Haon Mireille , Garajova Sona , Bertrand Emmanuel , Faulds Craig B. , Sciara Giuliano , Jacotot Adrien , Marchand Cyril , Hugoni Mylène , Rakotoarivonina Harivony , Rosso Marie-Noëlle , Rémond Caroline , Luis Patricia , Record Eric
Published: July 2021

Mangrove sediments from New Caledonia were screened for xylanase sequences. One enzyme was selected and characterized both biochemically and for its industrial potential. Using a specific cDNA amplification method coupled with a MiSeq sequencing approach, the diversity of expressed genes encoding GH11 xylanases was investigated beneath Avicenia marina and Rhizophora stylosa trees during the wet and dry seasons and at two different sediment depths. GH11 xylanase diversity varied more according to tree species and season, than with respect to depth. One complete cDNA was selected (OFU29) and expressed in Pichia pastoris. The corresponding enzyme (called Xyn11-29) was biochemically characterized, revealing an optimal activity at 40–50 °C and at a pH of 5.5. Xyn11-29 was stable for 48 h at 35 °C, with a half-life of 1 h at 40 °C and in the pH range of 5.5–6. Xyn11-29 exhibited a high hydrolysis capacity on destarched wheat bran, with 40% and 16% of xylose and arabinose released after 24 h hydrolysis. Its activity on wheat straw was lower, with a release of 2.8% and 6.9% of xylose and arabinose, respectively. As the protein was isolated from mangrove sediments, the effect of sea salt on its activity was studied and discussed.
Dihydroisocoumarins, Naphthalenes, and Further Polyketides from Aloe vera and A. plicatilis: Isolation, Identification and Their 5-LOX/COX-1 Inhibiting Potency
Authors: Rauwald Hans Wilhelm , Maucher Ralf , Dannhardt Gerd , Kuchta Kenny
Published: July 2021

The present study aims at the isolation and identification of diverse phenolic polyketides from Aloe vera (L.) Burm.f. and Aloe plicatilis (L.) Miller and includes their 5-LOX/COX-1 inhibiting potency. After initial Sephadex-LH20 gel filtration and combined silica gel 60- and RP18-CC, three dihydroisocoumarins (nonaketides), four 5-methyl-8-C-glucosylchromones (heptaketides) from A. vera, and two hexaketide-naphthalenes from A. plicatilis have been isolated by means of HSCCC. The structures of all polyketides were elucidated by ESI-MS and 2D 1H/13C-NMR (HMQC, HMBC) techniques. The analytical/preparative separation of 3R-feralolide, 3′-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl- and the new 6-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl-3R-feralolide into their respective positional isomers are described here for the first time, including the assignment of the 3R-configuration in all feralolides by comparative CD spectroscopy. The chromones 7-O-methyl-aloesin and 7-O-methyl-aloeresin A were isolated for the first time from A. vera, together with the previously described aloesin (syn. aloeresin B) and aloeresin D. Furthermore, the new 5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-1-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl- 3,6R-dihydroxy-8R-methylnaphtalene was isolated from A. plicatilis, together with the known plicataloside. Subsequently, biological-pharmacological screening was performed to identify Aloe polyketides with anti-inflammatory potential in vitro. In addition to the above constituents, the anthranoids (octaketides) aloe emodin, aloin, 6′-(E)-p-coumaroyl-aloin A and B, and 6′-(E)-p-coumaroyl-7-hydroxy-8-O-methyl-aloin A and B were tested. In the COX-1 examination, only feralolide (10 µM) inhibited the formation of MDA by 24%, whereas the other polyketides did not display any inhibition at all. In the 5-LOX-test, all aloin-type anthranoids (10 µM) inhibited the formation of LTB4 by about 25–41%. Aloesin also displayed 10% inhibition at 10 µM in this in vitro setup, while the other chromones and naphthalenes did not display any activity. The present study, therefore, demonstrates the importance of low molecular phenolic polyketides for the known overall anti-inflammatory activity of Aloe vera preparations.
Topology of the Electron Density and of Its Laplacian from Periodic LCAO Calculations on f-Electron Materials: The Case of Cesium Uranyl Chloride
Authors: Cossard Alessandro , Casassa Silvia , Gatti Carlo , Desmarais Jacques K. , Erba Alessandro
Published: July 2021

The chemistry of f-electrons in lanthanide and actinide materials is yet to be fully rationalized. Quantum-mechanical simulations can provide useful complementary insight to that obtained from experiments. The quantum theory of atoms in molecules and crystals (QTAIMAC), through thorough topological analysis of the electron density (often complemented by that of its Laplacian) constitutes a general and robust theoretical framework to analyze chemical bonding features from a computed wave function. Here, we present the extension of the Topond module (previously limited to work in terms of s-, p- and d-type basis functions only) of the Crystal program to f- and g-type basis functions within the linear combination of atomic orbitals (LCAO) approach. This allows for an effective QTAIMAC analysis of chemical bonding of lanthanide and actinide materials. The new implemented algorithms are applied to the analysis of the spatial distribution of the electron density and its Laplacian of the cesium uranyl chloride, Cs2UO2Cl4, crystal. Discrepancies between the present theoretical description of chemical bonding and that obtained from a previously reconstructed electron density by experimental X-ray diffraction are illustrated and discussed.
Chemopreventive Effect of Cratoxylum formosum (Jack) ssp. pruniflorum on Initial Stage Hepatocarcinogenesis in Rats
Authors: Pocasap Piman , Weerapreeyakul Natthida , Wongpoomchai Rawiwan
Published: July 2021

Cratoxylum formosum ssp. pruniflorum (Kurz) Gogelein (CP) is an indigenous plant found mainly in southeast Asia. Several in vitro studies have confirmed its activity against hepatocellular carcinoma; however, in vivo studies of the effect of CP on liver cancer are needed. This study investigated the effect of CP on early-stage hepatocarcinogenesis in rat liver when using diethylnitrosamine (DEN) as a carcinogen. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect (a) upregulation of glutathione S-transferase placental (GST-P) positive foci, (b) the proliferating cell nuclear antigen PCNA, and (c) apoptotic cells in the liver as indicators of early-stage carcinogenesis. Immunohistochemical parameters were observed in rats given CP orally following DEN injection. Rats given DEN presented overexpression of GST-P positive foci, PCNA, and apoptotic cells, indicating the formation of cancerous tissues, and these effects were diminished by CP treatment. CP thus inhibited hepatocarcinogenic effects in an animal model. These results could help plan further in vivo studies and support the use of CP to prevent processes that promote the pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma in humans.
Compound A Increases Cell Infiltration in Target Organs of Acute Graft-versus-Host Disease (aGVHD) in a Mouse Model
Authors: Bouazzaoui Abdellatif , Abdellatif Ahmed A. H. , Al-Allaf Faisal A. , Bogari Neda M. , Taher Mohiuddin M. , Athar Mohammad , Schubert Thomas , Habeebullah Turki M. , Qari Sameer H.
Published: July 2021

Systemic steroids are used to treat acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) caused by allogenic bone marrow transplantation (allo-BMT); however, their prolonged use results in complications. Hence, new agents for treating aGVHD are required. Recently, a new compound A (CpdA), with anti-inflammatory activity and reduced side effects compared to steroids, has been identified. Here, we aimed to determine whether CpdA can improve the outcome of aGVHD when administered after transplantation in a mouse model (C57BL/6 in B6D2F1). After conditioning with 9Gy total body irradiation, mice were infused with bone marrow (BM) cells and splenocytes from either syngeneic (B6D2F1) or allogeneic (C57BL/6) donors. The animals were subsequently treated (3 days/week) with 7.5 mg/kg CpdA from day +15 to day +28; the controls received 0.9% NaCl. Thereafter, the incidence and severity of aGVHD in aGVHD target organs were analyzed. Survival and clinical scores did not differ significantly; however, CpdA-treated animals showed high cell infiltration in the target organs. In bulk mixed lymphocyte reactions, CpdA treatment reduced the cell proliferation and expression of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines compared to controls, whereas levels of TNF, IL-23, chemokines, and chemokine receptors increased. CpdA significantly reduced proliferation in vitro but increased T cell infiltration in target organs.
Group Velocity Modulation and Light Field Focusing of the Edge States in Chirped Valley Graphene Plasmonic Metamaterials
Authors: Zhuo Liqiang , He Huiru , Huang Ruimin , Su Shaojian , Lin Zhili , Qiu Weibin , Huang Beiju , Kan Qiang
Published: July 2021

The valley degree of freedom, like the spin degree of freedom in spintronics, is regarded as a new information carrier, promoting the emerging valley photonics. Although there exist topologically protected valley edge states which are immune to optical backscattering caused by defects and sharp edges at the inverse valley Hall phase interfaces composed of ordinary optical dielectric materials, the dispersion and the frequency range of the edge states cannot be tuned once the geometrical parameters of the materials are determined. In this paper, we propose a chirped valley graphene plasmonic metamaterial waveguide composed of the valley graphene plasmonic metamaterials (VGPMs) with regularly varying chemical potentials while keeping the geometrical parameters constant. Due to the excellent tunability of graphene, the proposed waveguide supports group velocity modulation and zero group velocity of the edge states, where the light field of different frequencies focuses at different specific locations. The proposed structures may find significant applications in the fields of slow light, micro–nano-optics, topological plasmonics, and on-chip light manipulation.
Efficacy of Dietary and Supplementation Interventions for Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Lewgood Jessica , Oliveira Barbara , Korzepa Marie , Forbes Scott C. , Little Jonathan P. , Breen Leigh , Bailie Robert , Candow Darren G.
Published: July 2021

The prevalence of Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is increasing, which creates a large economic burden. Diet is a critical factor in the treatment and management of T2D; however, there are a large number of dietary approaches and a general lack of consensus regarding the efficacy of each. Therefore, the purpose of this narrative review is twofold: (1) to critically evaluate the effects of various dietary strategies on diabetes management and treatment, such as Mediterranean diet, plant-based diet, low-calorie and very low-calorie diets, intermittent fasting, low-carbohydrate and very low-carbohydrate diets, and low glycemic diets and (2) to examine several purported supplements, such as protein, branched-chain amino acids, creatine, and vitamin D to improve glucose control and body composition. This review can serve as a resource for those wanting to evaluate the evidence supporting the various dietary strategies and supplements that may help manage T2D.
Glucose Fluctuation and Severe Internal Carotid Artery Siphon Stenosis in Type 2 Diabetes Patients
Authors: Eto Futoshi , Washida Kazuo , Matsubara Masaki , Makino Hisashi , Takahashi Akio , Noda Kotaro , Hattori Yorito , Nakaoku Yuriko , Nishimura Kunihiro , Hosoda Kiminori , Ihara Masafumi
Published: July 2021

The impact of glucose fluctuation on intracranial artery stenosis remains to be elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the association between glucose fluctuation and intracranial artery stenosis. This was a cross-sectional study of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients equipped with the FreeStyle Libre Pro continuous glucose monitoring system (Abbott Laboratories) between February 2019 and June 2020. Glucose fluctuation was evaluated according to the standard deviation (SD) of blood glucose, coefficient of variation (%CV), and mean amplitude of glycemic excursions (MAGE). Magnetic resonance angiography was used to evaluate the degree of intracranial artery stenosis. Of the 103 patients, 8 patients developed severe internal carotid artery (ICA) siphon stenosis (≥70%). SD, %CV, and MAGE were significantly higher in the severe stenosis group than in the non-severe stenosis group (<70%), whereas there was no significant intergroup difference in the mean blood glucose and HbA1c. Multivariable logistic regression analysis adjusted for sex showed that SD, %CV, and MAGE were independent factors associated with severe ICA siphon stenosis. In conclusion, glucose fluctuation is significantly associated with severe ICA siphon stenosis in T2DM patients. Thus, glucose fluctuation can be a target of preventive therapies for intracranial artery stenosis and ischemic stroke.
Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in Cats from Cyprus
Authors: Attipa Charalampos , Yiapanis Christos , Tasker Séverine , Diakou Anastasia
Published: July 2021

Toxoplasma gondii is a cosmopolitan protozoon parasite, and the causative agent of toxoplasmosis, one of the most prevalent zoonotic parasitic diseases. Cats, as definitive hosts, spread the parasite via their faeces, but this occurs only for a very short period in their life. Seropositivity in cats, although not associated with current shedding of the parasite, is indicative of the infection in a cat population and can be used to assess the infection risk for definitive and intermediate hosts in that area. In order to assess the prevalence of infection in cats living in Cyprus, 155 cats, originating from all districts of the country, were examined for the presence of T. gondii antibodies. Additionally, parameters such as age, sex, health status, lifestyle and concomitant infections were statistically assessed as potential risk factors for T. gondii seropositivity. Specific anti-T. gondii antibodies were detected in 50 (32.3%) cats, while the presence of feline immunodeficiency virus antibodies and a history of never having been vaccinated were statistically associated with T. gondii seropositivity on multivariate logistic regression analysis. This is the first report of T. gondii seroprevalence in cats in Cyprus and indicates that raised public awareness should be considered to prevent infection of animals and humans.
The Emergence of Rift Valley Fever in Gedaref State Urges the Need for a Cross-Border One Health Strategy and Enforcement of the International Health Regulations
Authors: Ahmed Ayman , Mahmoud Iman , Eldigail Mawahib , Elhassan Rehab , Weaver Scott
Published: July 2021

This study investigated the causative agent of a haemorrhagic fever epidemic in Gedaref state, south-east Sudan. Six cases of febrile illness with haemorrhagic manifestations presented at outpatient health-clinics. Blood samples were collected from the patients and shipped to Khartoum where they were tested for dengue virus (DENV), chikungunya virus (CHIKV), and Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) using real-time qPCR. Fifty percent (3/6) of them tested positive for RVFV and neither DENV or CHIKV was detected. All patients were males between 20 and 48 years old who had no history of recent travel. This finding describes the first emergence of RVFV in Gedaref state. Considering that the state hosts a major market of livestock, and it has one of the largest-seasonal open pastures in the country that is usually flooded with herds from the neighbouring states and countries during the rainy season, this emergence could represent a major threat to public health in the region and countries importing animals and/or animal products from east Africa. Therefore, we urge the policymakers of the health and animal resources sectors to implement a one health strategy with a well-established early warning surveillance and response system to prevent the establishment of the disease in the area.
Essential Oil from Zingiber ottensii Induces Human Cervical Cancer Cell Apoptosis and Inhibits MAPK and PI3K/AKT Signaling Cascades
Authors: Ruttanapattanakul Jirapak , Wikan Nitwara , Chinda Kittinan , Jearanaikulvanich Thanathorn , Krisanuruks Napatsorn , Muangcha Muantep , Okonogi Siriporn , Potikanond Saranyapin , Nimlamool Wutigri
Published: July 2021

Zingiber ottensii (ZO) is a local plant in Thailand and has been used as a Thai traditional therapy for many conditions. ZO has been reported to exhibit many pharmacological effects, including anti-cancer activity. Nevertheless, its anti-cancer effects explored at the signaling level have not been elucidated in cervical cancer, which is one of the leading causes of fatality in females. We discovered that the essential oil of ZO significantly increased the apoptosis of human cervical cancer cells (HeLa) after 24 h of treatment in a concentration-dependent manner. Our data also clearly demonstrated that ZO essential oil reduced IL-6 levels in the culture supernatants of the cancer cells. Moreover, Western blot analysis clearly verified that cells were induced to undergo apoptotic death via caspase activation upon treatment with ZO essential oil. Interestingly, immunofluorescence studies and Western blot analyses showed that ZO essential oil suppressed epidermal growth factor (EGF)-induced pAkt and pERK1/2 signaling pathway activation. Together, our study demonstrates that ZO essential oil can reduce the proliferation and survival signaling of HeLa cervical cancer cells. Our study provides convincing data that ZO essential oil suppresses the growth and survival of cervical cancer cells, and it may be a potential choice for developing an anti-cancer agent for treating certain cervical cancers.
Exogenous Methyl Jasmonate Improves Cold Tolerance with Parallel Induction of Two Cold-Regulated (COR) Genes Expression in Triticum aestivum L.
Authors: Repkina Natalia , Ignatenko Anna , Holoptseva Ekaterina , MiszalskI Zbigniew , Kaszycki Paweł , Talanova Vera
Published: July 2021

Methyl jasmonate (MJ) is an important plant growth regulator that plays a key role in tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses. In this research, the effects of exogenous MJ on cold tolerance, photosynthesis, activity and gene expression of antioxidant enzymes, proline accumulation, and expression of cold-regulated (COR) genes in wheat seedlings under low temperature (4 °C) were investigated. Exogenous MJ treatment (1 µM) promoted wheat cold tolerance before and during cold exposure. Low temperature significantly decreased photosynthetic parameters, whereas MJ application led to their partial recovery under cold exposure. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels increased in response to low temperature, and this was counteracted by MJ application. Exogenous MJ significantly enhanced the activities of antioxidant enzymes and upregulated the expression of MnSOD and CAT during cold exposure. MJ application also led to enhanced proline content before 4 °C exposure, whereas the P5CS gene expression was upregulated by MJ’s presence at both normal (22 °C) and low (4 °C) temperatures. It was also shown that MJ tended to upregulate the expression of the COR genes WCS19 and WCS120 genes. We conclude that exogenous MJ can alleviate the negative effect of cold stress thus increasing wheat cold tolerance.
Genetic Similarity of Avena sativa L. Varieties as an Example of a Narrow Genetic Pool of Contemporary Cereal Species
Authors: Cieplak Magdalena , Okoń Sylwia , Werwińska Krystyna
Published: July 2021

The assessment of the genetic diversity of cultivated varieties is a very important element of breeding programs. This allows the determination of the level of genetic differentiation of cultivated varieties, their genetic distinctiveness, and is also of great importance in the selection of parental components for crossbreeding. The aim of the present study was to determine the level of genetic diversity of oat varieties currently grown in Central Europe based on two marker systems: ISSR and SCoT. The research conducted showed that both these types of markers were suitable for conducting analyses relating to the assessment of genetic diversity. The calculated coefficients showed that the analyzed cultivars were characterized by a high genetic similarity. However, the UPGMA and PCoA analyses clearly indicated the distinctiveness of the breeding programs conducted in Central European countries. The high genetic similarity of the analyzed forms allow us to conclude that it is necessary to expand the genetic pool of oat varieties. Numerous studies show that landraces may be the donor of genetic variation.