bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Gene Expression Landscape of Prostate Cancer BM Reveals Close Interaction with the Bone Microenvironment
Authors: Saraji Alireza , Duan Kang , Watermann Christian , Hempel Katharina , Roesch Marie C. , Krupar Rosemarie , Stegmann-Frehse Janine , Jonigk Danny , Kuehnel Mark Philipp , Klapper Wolfram , Merseburger Axel S. , Kirfel Jutta , Perner Sven , Offermann Anne , Sailer Verena
Published: October 2022

Bone metastatic (BM) prostate cancer (PCa) belongs to the most lethal form of PCa, and therapeutic options are limited. Molecular profiling of metastases contributes to the understanding of mechanisms defining the bone metastatic niche. Our aim was to explore the transcriptional profile of PCa BM and to identify genes that drive progression. Paraffin-embedded tissues of 28 primary PCa and 30 BM were submitted to RNA extraction and analyzed by RNA sequencing using the Nanostring nCounter gene expression platform. A total of 770 cancer-related genes were measured using the Nanostring™ PanCancer progression panel. Gene Ontology (GO), KEGG, Reactome, STRING, Metascape, PANTHER, and Pubmed were used for data integration and gene annotation. We identified 116 differentially expressed genes (DEG) in BM compared to primaries. The most significant DEGs include CD36, FOXC2, CHAD, SPP1, MMPs, IBSP, and PTX3, which are more highly expressed in BM, and ACTG2, MYH11, CNN1, FGF2, SPOCK3, and CHRDL1, which have a lower expression. DEGs functionally relate to extracellular matrix (ECM) proteoglycans, ECM-receptors, cell-substrate adhesion, cell motility as well as receptor tyrosine kinase signaling and response to growth factors. Data integration and gene annotation of 116 DEGs were used to build a gene platform which we termed “Manually Annotated and Curated Nanostring-data Platform”. In summary, our results highlight the significance of certain genes in PCa BM to which essential pro-metastatic functions could be ascribed. Data from this study provide a comprehensive platform of genes that are related to PCa BM and provide evidence for further investigations.
Transcriptomic Analysis in Human 3D Skin Model Injected with Resorbable Hyaluronic Acid Fillers Reveals Foreign Body Response
Authors: Jennen Danyel G. J. , van Herwijnen Marcel , Jetten Marlon , Vandebriel Rob J. , Keizers Peter , Geertsma Robert E. , de Jong Wim H. , Kleinjans Jos C. S.
Published: October 2022

Usage of injectable dermal fillers applied for aesthetic purposes has extensively increased over the years. As such, the number of related adverse reactions has increased, including patients showing severe complications such as product migration, topical swelling and inflammatory reactions of the skin. In order to understand the underlying molecular events of these adverse reactions we performed a genome-wide gene expression study on the multi-cell type human Phenion® Full-Thickness Skin Model exposed to five experimental hyaluronic acid (HA) preparations with increasing cross-linking degree, four commercial fillers from Perfectha®, and non-resorbable filler Bio-Alcamid®. In addition, we evaluated whether cross-linking degree or particle size of the HA-based fillers could be associated with the occurrence of adverse effects. In all cases, exposure to different HA fillers resulted in a clearly elevated gene expression of cytokines and chemokines related to acute inflammation as part of the foreign body response. Furthermore, for one experimental filler genes of OXPHOS complexes I-V were significantly down-regulated (adjusted p-value < 0.05), resulting in mitochondrial dysfunction which can be linked to over-expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNFα and IL-1β and chemokine CCL2. Our hypothesis that cross-linking degree or particle size of the HA-based fillers is related to the biological responses induced by these fillers could only partially be confirmed for particle size. In conclusion, our innovative approach resulted in gene expression changes from a human 3D skin model exposed to dermal fillers that mechanistically substantiate aforementioned adverse reactions, and thereby adds to the weight of evidence that these fillers may induce inflammatory and fibrotic responses.
C-Series Coelenterazine-Driven Bioluminescence Signature Imaging
Authors: Kamiya Genta , Kitada Nobuo , Furuta Tadaomi , Hirano Takashi , Maki Shojiro , Kim Sung Bae
Published: October 2022

The present study introduces a unique BL signature imaging system with novel CTZ analogues named “C-series.” Nine kinds of C-series CTZ analogues were first synthesized, and BL intensity patterns and spectra were then examined according to the marine luciferases. The results show that the four CTZ analogues named C3, C4, C6, and C7, individually or collectively luminesce with completely distinctive BL spectral signatures and intensity patterns according to the luciferases: Renilla luciferase (RLuc), NanoLuc, and artificial luciferase (ALuc). The signatural reporters were multiplexed into a multi-reporter system comprising RLuc8.6-535SG and ALuc16. The usefulness of the signatural reporters was further determined with a multi-probe system that consists of two single-chain probes embedding RLuc8 and ALuc23. This study is a great addition to the study of conventional bioassays with a unique methodology, and for the specification of each signal in a single- or multi-reporter system using unique BL signatures and patterns of reporter luciferases.
Potential Inflammatory Biomarker in Patients with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Park Ji Hyun
Published: October 2022

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder that can diminish the quality of life of both children and adults in academic, occupational, and social contexts. The kynurenine pathway (KP) contains a set of enzymatic reactions involved in tryptophan (TRP) degradation. It is known to be associated with the risk of developing ADHD. This review will address the KP and underlying mechanism of inflammation in ADHD. Potential inflammatory biomarkers reported in the most recent studies are summarized. Although a strong neuroimmunological basis has been established due to the advances of recent neurobiological research, the pathophysiology of ADHD remains unclear.
miR-143-null Is against Diet-Induced Obesity by Promoting BAT Thermogenesis and Inhibiting WAT Adipogenesis
Authors: Liu Jie , Liu Jiatao , Zeng Dewei , Wang Huan , Wang Yun , Xiong Jiali , Chen Xingping , Luo Junyi , Chen Ting , Xi Qianyun , Jiang Qingyan , Zhang Yongliang
Published: October 2022

Excessive energy intake is the main cause of obesity, and stimulation of brown adipose tissue (BAT) thermogenesis has emerged as an attractive tool for anti-obesity. Although miR-143 has been reported to promote white adipocyte differentiation, its role in BAT remains unclear. In our study, we found that during HFD-induced obesity, the expression of miR-143 in BAT was significantly reduced, and the expression of miR-143 in WAT first increased and then decreased. Knockout (KO) of miR-143 with CRISPR/Cas9 did not affect the energy metabolism of normal diet fed mice and brown adipocyte differentiation but inhibited the differentiation of white adipocytes. Importantly, during high fat diet-induced obesity, miR-143KO significantly reduced body weight, and improved energy expenditure, insulin sensitivity, and glucose tolerance. Further exploration showed that miR-143KO reduced the weight of adipose tissue, promoted mitochondrial number and functions, induced thermogenesis and lipolysis of BAT, increased lipolysis, and inhibited lipogenesis of white adipose tissue (WAT). Our study considerably improves our collective understanding of the function of miR-143 in adipose tissue and its potential significance in anti-obesity and provides a new avenue for the management of obesity through the inhibition of miR-143 in BAT and WAT.
Ontogenetic Variation in Macrocyclic and Hemicyclic Poplar Rust Fungi
Authors: Yu Zhongdong , Peng Zijia , Qi Mei , Zheng Wei
Published: October 2022

Melampsora larici-populina (Mlp), M. medusae (Mmed), M. magnusiana (Mmag), and M. pruinosae (Mpr) are epidemic rust fungi in China. The first two are macrocyclic rust fungi distributed in temperate humid environments. The latter two are hemicyclic rusts, mainly distributed in arid and semi-arid areas. Ontogenetic variation that comes with this arid-resistance is of great interest—and may help us predict the influence of a warmer, drier, climate on fungal phylogeny. To compare the differences in the life history and ontogeny between the two types of rust, we cloned mating type genes, STE3.4 and STE3.3 using RACE-smart technology. Protein structures, functions, and mutant loci were compared across each species. We also used microscopy to compare visible cytological differences at each life stage for the fungal species, looking for variation in structure and developmental timing. Quantitative PCR technology was used to check the expression of nuclear fusion and division genes downstream of STE3.3 and STE3.4. Encoding amino acids of STE3.3 and STE3.4 in hemicyclic rusts are shorter than these in the macrocyclic rusts. Both STE3.3 and STE3.4 interact with a protein kinase superfamily member EGG12818 and an E3 ubiquitin protein ligase EGG09709 directly, and activating G-beta conformational changes. The mutation at site 74th amino acid in the conserved transmembrane domain of STE3.3 ascribes to a positive selection, in which alanine (Ala) is changed to phenylalanine (Phe) in hemicyclic rusts, and a mutation with Tyr lost at site 387th in STE3.4, where it is the binding site for β-D-Glucan. These mutants are speculated corresponding to the insensitivity of hemicyclic rust pheromone receptors to interact with MFa pheromones, and lead to Mnd1 unexpressed in teliospora, and they result in the diploid nuclei division failure and the sexual stage missing in the life cycle. A Phylogenic tree based on STE3.4 gene suggests these two rust types diverged about 14.36 million years ago. Although these rusts share a similar uredia and telia stage, they show markedly different wintering strategies. Hemicyclic rusts overwinter in the poplar buds endophytically, their urediniospores developing thicker cell walls. They form haustoria with a collar-like extrahaustorial membrane neck and induce host thickened callose cell walls, all ontogenetic adaptations to arid environments.
Missed Cystic Fibrosis Newborn Screening Cases due to Immunoreactive Trypsinogen Levels below Program Cutoffs: A National Survey of Risk Factors
Authors: Kharrazi Martin , Sacramento Charlene , Comeau Anne , Hale Jaime , Caggana Michele , Kay Denise , Lee Rachel , Reilly Brendan , Thompson John , Nasr Samya , Kleyn Mary , Hoffman Gary , Baker Mei , Clarke Colleen , Harris Cheryl , Dorley M. , Fryman Hilary , Sutaria Ankit , Hietala Amy , Winslow Holly , Richards Holly , Therrell Bradford
Published: October 2022

Testing immunoreactive trypsinogen (IRT) is the first step in cystic fibrosis (CF) newborn screening. While high IRT is associated with CF, some cases are missed. This survey aimed to find factors associated with missed CF cases due to IRT levels below program cutoffs. Twenty-nine states responded to a U.S-wide survey and 13 supplied program-related data for low IRT false screen negative cases (CFFN) and CF true screen positive cases (CFTP) for analysis. Rates of missed CF cases and odds ratios were derived for each factor in CFFNs, and two CFFN subgroups, IRT above (“high”) and below (“low”) the CFFN median (39 ng/mL) compared to CFTPs for this entire sample set. Factors associated with “high” CFFN subgroup were Black race, higher IRT cutoff, fixed IRT cutoff, genotypes without two known CF-causing variants, and meconium ileus. Factors associated with “low” CFFN subgroup were older age at specimen collection, Saturday birth, hotter season of newborn dried blood spot collection, maximum ≥ 3 days laboratories could be closed, preterm birth, and formula feeding newborns. Lowering IRT cutoffs may reduce “high” IRT CFFNs. Addressing hospital and laboratory factors (like training staff in collection of blood spots, using insulated containers during transport and reducing consecutive days screening laboratories are closed) may reduce “low” IRT CFFNs.
Polynuclear Cu(I) and Ag(I) Complexes of 1,3-Diisobutyl Thiourea, Synthesis, Crystal Structure and Antioxidant Potentials
Authors: Noor Awal , Shahzad Adnan , Khan Ezzat , Tahir Muhammad Nawaz , Khan Gul Shahzada , Rashid Amin ur , Said Muhammad
Published: October 2022

Reaction of the 1,3-diisobutyl thiourea (L) with MX [M = Cu, Ag and X = Cl, NO3] provide polynuclear heteroleptic complexes [Cu3L3Cl3] (1), [Ag2L6](NO3)2 (2) and [Ag6L8Cl4] (3). All complexes were characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction. The solid-state crystal of these complexes (1–3) were determined by single crystal XRD. Which shows that complex (1) is tri-nuclear with trigonal planer arrangement, complex (2) is binuclear with four membered metalacyclic ring and complex (3) is hexa-nuclear. Complexes (1–3) are tested for their free radical scavenging activity by using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical (DPPH) showing moderate potential.
Differences in EAG Response and Behavioral Choices between Honey Bee and Bumble Bee to Tomato Flower Volatiles
Authors: Liu Jinjia , Zhang Jiangchao , Shen Jinshan , Zhao Huiting , Ma Weihua , Jiang Yusuo
Published: October 2022

Bumble bees and honey bees are of vital importance for tomato pollination, although honey bees are less attracted to tomato flowers than bumble bees. Little is known about how tomato flower volatile compounds influence the foraging behaviors of honey bees and bumble bees. In this study, compounds of tomato flower volatiles were detected by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Electroantennography (EAG) and a dynamic two-choice olfactometer were used, respectively, to compare the differences of antennal and behavioral responses between Apis mellifera and Bombus terrestris towards selected volatile compounds. A total of 46 compounds were detected from the tomato flower volatiles. Of the 16 compounds tested, A. mellifera showed strong antennal responses to 3 compounds (1-nonanal, (+)-dihydrocarvone, and toluene) when compared with a mineral oil control, and B. terrestris showed 7 pronounced EAG responses (1,3-xylene, (+)-dihydrocarvone, toluene, piperitone, eucarvone, 1-nonanal, and β-ocimene). Additionally, 1-nonanal and (+)-dihydrocarvone elicited significant avoidance behavior of A. mellifera, but not of B. terrestris. In conclusion, bumble bees are more sensitive to the compounds of tomato flower volatiles compared to honey bees, and honey bees showed aversion to some compounds of tomato flower volatiles. The findings indicated that compounds of flower volatiles significantly influenced bee foraging preference for tomato.
Increased Population of CD40+ Fibroblasts Is Associated with Impaired Wound Healing and Chronic Inflammation in Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Authors: Littig Joshua Patrick Bungalon , Moellmer Rebecca , Estes Adrienne M. , Agrawal Devendra K. , Rai Vikrant
Published: October 2022

Despite the advancement in the treatment, nonhealing diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are an important clinical issue accounting for increased morbidity and risk of amputation. Persistent inflammation, decreased granulation tissue formation, decreased neo-angiogenesis, and infections are common underlying causes of the nonhealing pattern. Fibroblasts play a critical role in granulation tissue formation and angiogenesis and mediate wound healing how fibroblasts regulate inflammation in nonhealing DFUs is a question to ponder. This study aims to investigate the expression of a de-differentiated subpopulation of fibroblasts which are CD40+ (secretory fibroblasts) and increased secretion of IL-6 and IL-8 but have never been reported in DFUs. We characterized 11 DFU tissues and nearby clean tissues histologically and for the presence of inflammation and CD40+ fibroblasts using immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR. The results revealed significantly increased density of CD40+ fibroblasts and differential expression of mediators of inflammation in DFU tissues compared to clean tissue. Increased expression of IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α in DFU tissues along with CD40+ fibroblast suggest that CD40+ fibroblasts in DFUs contribute to the chronicity of inflammation and targeting fibroblasts phenotypic switch to decrease secretory fibroblasts may have therapeutic significance to promote healing.
Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate Potentiates an Anti-Inflammaging System in Keratinocytes
Authors: Yan Xianghong , Tsuji Gaku , Hashimoto-Hachiya Akiko , Furue Masutaka
Published: October 2022

Skincare products play a crucial role in preventing the dry skin induced by various causes. Certain ingredients can help to improve the efficacy of skincare products. Galactomyces ferment filtrate (GFF) is such a functional ingredient. Its use originated from the empirical observation that the hands of sake brewers who deal with yeast fermentation retain a beautiful and youthful appearance. Consequently, skincare products based on GFF are widely used throughout the world. Recent studies have demonstrated that GFF activates an aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) and upregulates the expression of filaggrin, a pivotal endogenous source of natural moisturizing factors, in epidermal keratinocytes. It also activates nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (NRF2), the antioxidative master transcription factor, and exhibits potent antioxidative activity against oxidative stress induced by ultraviolet irradiation and proinflammatory cytokines, which also accelerate inflammaging. GFF-mediated NRF2 activation downregulates the expression of CDKN2A, which is known to be overexpressed in senescent keratinocytes. Moreover, GFF enhances epidermal terminal differentiation by upregulating the expression of caspase-14, claudin-1, and claudin-4. It also promotes the synthesis of the antiinflammatory cytokine IL-37 and downregulates the expression of proallergic cytokine IL-33 in keratinocytes. In addition, GFF downregulates the expression of the CXCL14 and IL6R genes, which are involved in inflammaging. These beneficial properties might underpin the potent barrier-protecting and anti-inflammaging effects of GFF-containing skin formulae.
Elastographic Evaluation of Thyroid Nodules in Children and Adolescents with Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis and Nodular Goiter with Reference to Cytological and/or Histopathological Diagnosis
Authors: Borysewicz-Sańczyk Hanna , Sawicka Beata , Bossowski Filip , Dzięcioł Janusz , Bossowski Artur
Published: October 2022

There are data indicating the coexistence of papillary thyroid carcinoma and autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT) in children. The aim of the study was elastographic evaluation of thyroid nodules in children and adolescents with AIT and nodular goiter in relation to cytological and/or histopathological diagnosis. We examined 215 children (57 boys and 158 girls) with 261 thyroid nodules (143 non-AIT and 118 AIT). All study participants underwent a conventional ultrasound examination with elastography followed by fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB). Abnormal Strain Ratio (SR ≥ 5) was observed in 36 non-AIT nodules and 15 AIT nodules. Papillary thyroid carcinoma was diagnosed in 5 patients (2% of all investigated nodules). SR of malignant thyroid nodules was statistically higher in comparison to SR of benign nodules both in the group of non-AIT (6 ± 4 vs. 3.67 ± 2.62, p = 0.024) and AIT nodules (6.3 ± 0.01 vs. 2.92 ± 1.89, p = 0.047). Comparison of non-AIT and AIT benign nodules revealed that SR was higher in non-AIT nodules (3.67 ± 2.62 vs. 2.92 ± 1.89, p = 0.01). We observed a strong positive correlation (R = 1) between TSH concentration and SR ratio in the group of all malignant thyroid nodules. Autoimmune inflammatory process of the thyroid gland does not limit the use of elastography in the diagnosis of thyroid nodules in children.
Cancer Immunotherapy: Harnessing the Immune System to Fight Cancer
Authors: Rizzo Alessandro , Mollica Veronica , Santoni Matteo , Massari Francesco
Published: October 2022

The advent of cancer immunotherapy has represented an unprecedented revolution in patients with hematological and solid tumors [...]
Evaluation of Influencing Factors on the Maximum Climbing Specific Holding Time: An Inferential Statistics and Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Dindorf Carlo , Bartaguiz Eva , Dully Jonas , Sprenger Max , Merk Anna , Becker Stephan , Fröhlich Michael , Ludwig Oliver
Published: October 2022

Handgrip strength (HGS) appears to be an indicator of climbing performance. The transferability of HGS measurements obtained using a hand dynamometer and factors that influence the maximal climbing-specific holding time (CSHT) are largely unclear. Forty-eight healthy subjects (27 female, 21 male; age: 22.46 ± 3.17 years; height: 172.76 ± 8.91 cm; weight: 69.07 ± 12.41 kg; body fat: 20.05% ± 7.95%) underwent a maximal pull-up test prior to the experiment and completed a self-assessment using a Likert scale questionnaire. HGS was measured using a hand dynamometer, whereas CSHT was measured using a fingerboard. Multiple linear regressions showed that weight, maximal number of pull-ups, HGS normalized by subject weight, and length of the middle finger had a significant effect on the maximal CSHT (non-dominant hand: R2corr = 0.63; dominant hand: R2corr = 0.55). Deeper exploration using a machine learning model including all available data showed a predictive performance with R2 = 0.51 and identified another relevant parameter for the regression model. These results call into question the use of hand dynamometers and highlight the performance-related importance of body weight in climbing practice. The results provide initial indications that finger length may be used as a sub-factor in talent scouting.
Effect of Near-Dry WEDM Process Variables through Taguchi-Based-GRA Approach on Performance Measures of Nitinol
Authors: Vora Jay , Shah Yug , Khanna Sakshum , Chaudhari Rakesh
Published: October 2022

The machining of Nitinol shape memory alloys (SMA) through conventional machining techniques imposes several challenges due to the alloys’ comprehensive mechanical qualities. Wire electrical discharge machining (WEDM) process is a non-conventional machining technique that is suitable mainly for producing complex shape geometries with excellent surface features for difficult-to-cut materials. The current study attempted the use of a near-dry WEDM process for Nitinol SMA with the consideration of multiple response variables. The studied literature and machine capabilities have identified input factors of pulse-on-time (Ton), pulse-off-time (Toff), and current and output factors of MRR, SR, and RLT. Through the Taguchi approach, a total of nine experimental trials were designed to analyze the performance of the process. The statistical significance of input factors on the performance measures was studied with the help of ANOVA techniques. Statistical analysis for all the output measures has shown that the generated regression terms had a significant influence. For single output measures, the current was found to have a substantial effect on both MRR and SR, while Toff was the most significant contributor in the case of RLT. The obtained results of residual plots for all performance measures implied good ANOVA results. The effect of near-dry WEDM variables was studied on output measures through main effect plots. Grey relational analysis (GRA) has been employed to attain optimal parametric settings of multiple performance measures. GRA technique for the optimal parametric settings of simultaneous performance measures of MRR, SR, and RLT was found to have a Ton of 30 µs, Toff of 24 µs, and current of 4 A. Validation trials were conducted to check the adequacy of the GRA technique. The minor acceptable deviation was recorded among the anticipated and recorded values. This clearly reveals the acceptability of the integrated approach of the Taguchi–Grey method. The surface morphology for the near-dry and wet-WEDM has also been investigated through scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The author considers that the present study will be beneficial for users working in WEDM and near-dry WEDM processes for hard machining materials.
Arctic Nearshore Sediment Dynamics—An Example from Herschel Island—Qikiqtaruk, Canada
Authors: Radosavljevic Boris , Lantuit Hugues , Knoblauch Christian , Couture Nicole , Herzschuh Ulrike , Fritz Michael
Published: October 2022

Increasing arctic coastal erosion rates imply a greater release of sediments and organic matter into the coastal zone. With 213 sediment samples taken around Herschel Island—Qikiqtaruk, Canadian Beaufort Sea, we aimed to gain new insights on sediment dynamics and geochemical properties of a shallow arctic nearshore zone. Spatial characteristics of nearshore sediment texture (moderately to poorly sorted silt) are dictated by hydrodynamic processes, but ice-related processes also play a role. We determined organic matter (OM) distribution and inferred the origin and quality of organic carbon by C/N ratios and stable carbon isotopes δ13C. The carbon content was higher offshore and in sheltered areas (mean: 1.0 wt.%., S.D.: 0.9) and the C/N ratios also showed a similar spatial pattern (mean: 11.1, S.D.: 3.1), while the δ13C (mean: −26.4‰ VPDB, S.D.: 0.4) distribution was more complex. We compared the geochemical parameters of our study with terrestrial and marine samples from other studies using a bootstrap approach. Sediments of the current study contained 6.5 times and 1.8 times less total organic carbon than undisturbed and disturbed terrestrial sediments, respectively. Therefore, degradation of OM and separation of carbon pools take place on land and continue in the nearshore zone, where OM is leached, mineralized, or transported beyond the study area.
Chest Imaging in Systemic Endemic Mycoses
Authors: Sousa Célia , Marchiori Edson , Youssef Ali , Mohammed Tan-Lucien , Patel Pratik , Irion Klaus , Pasini Romulo , Mançano Alexandre , Souza Arthur , Pasqualotto Alessandro C. , Hochhegger Bruno
Published: October 2022

Endemic fungal infections are responsible for high rates of morbidity and mortality in certain regions of the world. The diagnosis and management remain a challenge, and the reason could be explained by the lack of disease awareness, variability of symptoms, and insidious and often overlooked clinical presentation. Imaging findings are nonspecific and frequently misinterpreted as other more common infectious or malignant diseases. Patient demographics and clinical and travel history are important clues that may lead to a proper diagnosis. The purpose of this paper is to review the presentation and differential diagnosis of endemic mycoses based on the most common chest imaging findings.
Efficacy of Bovine Nail Membranes as In Vitro Model for Onychomycosis Infected by Trichophyton Species
Authors: Temporiti Marta Elisabetta Eleonora , Guerini Marta , Baiguera Rebecca Michela , Buratti Simone , Desiderio Anthea , Goppa Lorenzo , Perugini Paola , Savino Elena
Published: October 2022

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection caused by different etiologic agents, including dermatophytes that specifically colonize keratin-rich substrates. The aim of this work was to investigate mechanical modifications of bovine membranes (used as an in vitro nail model) placed in contact with Trichophyton species. Trichophyton strains were isolated from toenails specimens. The procedure was set up by spreading T. rubrum,T. interdigitale, and T. mentagrophytes strains on Petri dishes with minimal and rich media; after that, bovine membranes were placed in the center. After 27 days, T. interdigitale and T. mentagrophytes significantly reduced the thickness of the colonized membranes, whereas two T. rubrum strains showed the highest degradation limited to the small colonized area. These results were confirmed by SEM images of the colonization profile on membranes. Mechanical analyses performed on membranes were used as an innovative method to evaluate the thickness and structural integrity of membranes variation following fungal colonization. In conclusion, mechanical analyses of substrate may be used as a procedure for the development of a new onychomycosis diagnosis test in order to develop personalized and strain-specific treatment.
Composition and Codon Usage Pattern Results in Divergence of the Zinc Binuclear Cluster (Zn(II)2Cys6) Sequences among Ascomycetes Plant Pathogenic Fungi
Authors: Bansal Shilpi , Mallikarjuna Mallana Gowdra , Balamurugan Alexander , Nayaka S. Chandra , Prakash Ganesan
Published: October 2022

Zinc binuclear cluster proteins (ZBC; Zn(II)2Cys6) are unique to the fungi kingdom and associated with a series of functions, viz., the utilization of macromolecules, stress tolerance, and most importantly, host–pathogen interactions by imparting virulence to the pathogen. Codon usage bias (CUB) is the phenomenon of using synonymous codons in a non-uniform fashion during the translation event, which has arisen because of interactions among evolutionary forces. The Zn(II)2Cys6 coding sequences from nine Ascomycetes plant pathogenic species and model system yeast were analysed for compositional and codon usage bias patterns. The clustering analysis diverged the Ascomycetes fungi into two clusters. The nucleotide compositional and relative synonymous codon usage (RSCU) analysis indicated GC biasness toward Ascomycetes fungi compared with the model system S. cerevisiae, which tends to be AT-rich. Further, plant pathogenic Ascomycetes fungi belonging to cluster-2 showed a higher number of GC-rich high-frequency codons than cluster-1 and was exclusively AT-rich in S. cerevisiae. The current investigation also showed the mutual effect of the two evolutionary forces, viz. natural selection and compositional constraints, on the CUB of Zn(II)2Cys6 genes. The perseverance of GC-rich codons of Zn(II)2Cys6 in Ascomycetes could facilitate the invasion process. The findings of the current investigation show the role of CUB and nucleotide composition in the evolutionary divergence of Ascomycetes plant pathogens and paves the way to target specific codons and sequences to modulate host–pathogen interactions through genome editing and functional genomics tools.
Three-Arm Robotic Lung Resection via the Open-Thoracotomy-View Approach Using Vertical Port Placement and Confronting Monitor Setting: Focusing on Segmentectomy
Authors: Sakakura Noriaki , Nakada Takeo , Takahashi Yusuke , Suzuki Ayumi , Shinohara Shuichi , Kuroda Hiroaki
Published: October 2022

To perform robotic lung resections with views similar to those in thoracotomy, we devised a vertical port placement and confronting upside-down monitor setting: the three-arm, robotic “open-thoracotomy-view approach (OTVA)”. We described the robotic OTVA experiences focusing on segmentectomy and its technical aspects. We retrospectively reviewed 114 consecutive patients who underwent robotic lung resections (76 lobectomies and 38 segmentectomies) with OTVA using the da Vinci Xi Surgical System between February 2019 and June 2022. To identify segmental boundaries, we administered indocyanine green intravenously and used the robotic fluorescence imaging system (Firefly). In all procedures, cranial-side intrathoracic structures, which are often hidden in the conventional look-up-view method, were well visualized. The mean durations of surgery and console operation were 195 and 140 min, respectively, and 225 and 173 min, for segmentectomy and lobectomy, respectively. In segmentectomy, console operation was significantly shorter (approximately 30 min, p < 0.001) and two more staplers (8.2 ± 2.3) were used compared with lobectomy (6.6 ± 2.6, p = 0.003). In both groups, median postoperative durations of chest tube placement and hospitalization were 0 and 3 days, respectively. This three-arm robotic OTVA setting offers natural thoracotomy views and can be an alternative for segmentectomy and lobectomy.
Assessment and Decomposition of Regional Land Use Efficiency of the Service Sector in China
Authors: Zhang Mingzhi , Liu Hongyu , Su Yangyue , Zhou Xiangyu , Li Zhaocheng , Chen Chao
Published: October 2022

High land use efficiency is the key to improving total factor productivity, and also an important force behind achieving sustained economic growth. Existing studies have mainly focused on the land use efficiency of the industry sector. Yet, the issue of land use efficiency of the service sector (SLUE) has been largely overlooked. This study examines regional differences and efficiency decomposition by using a slack based model (SBM) of undesirable output, and the Malmquist productivity index (MPI) under a data envelopment analysis framework. The results reveal that: (1) In China, the land use efficiency of the service sector is unbalanced, showing an inverted growth law of “low in developed areas and high in backward areas”. (2) The land use efficiency of the service sector can be decomposed into technical progress, pure technical efficiency, and scale efficiency. From the decomposition results, the growth rate of pure technical efficiency presents a trend of “low in the east and high in the west”; the scale efficiency also falls into the situation of weak group growth. Technological progress has maintained steady improvement. (3) The coordinated improvement of land use efficiency of the service sector needs to focus on resolving the “beggar-thy-neighbor” issue caused by existing large regional differences. In this article, the puzzle of land use efficiency differences in the service industry is well solved, and thus provides valuable enlightenment for the benign growth of service industries in countries and regions around the world.
Modulation of Small RNA Signatures by Astrocytes on Early Neurodegeneration Stages; Implications for Biomarker Discovery
Authors: López-Cepeda Leonardo , Castro Juan David , Aristizábal-Pachón Andrés Felipe , González-Giraldo Yeimy , Pinzón Andrés , Puentes-Rozo Pedro J. , González Janneth
Published: October 2022

Diagnosis of neurodegenerative disease (NDD) is complex, therefore simpler, less invasive, more accurate biomarkers are needed. small non-coding RNA (sncRNA) dysregulates in NDDs and sncRNA signatures have been explored for the diagnosis of NDDs, however, the performance of previous biomarkers is still better. Astrocyte dysfunction promotes neurodegeneration and thus derived scnRNA signatures could provide a more precise way to identify of changes related to NDD course and pathogenesis, and it could be useful for the dissection of mechanistic insights operating in NDD. Often sncRNA are transported outside the cell by the action of secreted particles such as extracellular vesicles (EV), which protect sncRNA from degradation. Furthermore, EV associated sncRNA can cross the BBB to be found in easier to obtain peripheral samples, EVs also inherit cell-specific surface markers that can be used for the identification of Astrocyte Derived Extracellular Vesicles (ADEVs) in a peripheral sample. By the study of the sncRNA transported in ADEVs it is possible to identify astrocyte specific sncRNA signatures that could show astrocyte dysfunction in a more simpler manner than previous methods. However, sncRNA signatures in ADEV are not a copy of intracellular transcriptome and methodological aspects such as the yield of sncRNA produced in ADEV or the variable amount of ADEV captured after separation protocols must be considered. Here we review the role as signaling molecules of ADEV derived sncRNA dysregulated in conditions associated with risk of neurodegeneration, providing an explanation of why to choose ADEV for the identification of astrocyte-specific transcriptome. Finally, we discuss possible limitations of this approach and the need to improve the detection limits of sncRNA for the use of ADEV derived sncRNA signatures.
Carbon Nanomaterial-Based Lubricants: Review of Recent Developments
Authors: Rahman Md Mahfuzur , Islam Mohaiminul , Roy Rakesh , Younis Hassan , AlNahyan Maryam , Younes Hammad
Published: October 2022

This review article summarizes the progress of research on carbon nanomaterial-based lubricants witnessed in recent years. Carbon nanomaterials, such as graphene, carbon nanotubes (CNTs), fullerenes and carbon nanostructures, are at the center of current tribological research on attaining superior lubrication performance. The development of nanomaterial-based solid lubricants, lubricant additives and bulk materials and the related issues in their processing, characterization and applications as well as their tribological performance (coefficient of friction and wear rate) are listed in a structured tabulated form. Firstly, regarding nanomaterial-based solid lubricants, this study reveals that carbon nanomaterials such as graphite, graphene, graphene-based coatings and diamond-like carbon (DLC)-based coatings increase different tribological properties of solid lubricants. Secondly, this study summarizes the influence of graphene, carbon nanotubes, fullerene, carbon nanodiamonds, carbon nano-onions, carbon nanohorns and carbon spheres when they are used as an additive in lubricants. Thirdly, a structured tabulated overview is presented for the use of carbon nanomaterial-reinforced bulk material as lubricants, where graphene, carbon nanotubes and carbon nanodiamonds are used as reinforcement. Additionally, the lubricity mechanism and superlubricity of carbon nanomaterial-based lubricants is also discussed. The impact of carbon nanotubes and graphene on superlubricity is reviewed in detail. It is reported in the literature that graphene is the most prominent and widely used carbon nanomaterial in terms of all four regimes (solid lubricants, lubricating additives, bulk material reinforcement and superlubricity) for superior tribological properties. Furthermore, prospective challenges associated with lubricants based on carbon nanomaterials are identified along with future research directions.
Nanostructured Hybrid Hydrogels for Solar-Driven Clean Water Harvesting from the Atmosphere
Authors: Uddin Md. Nizam , Rab Md. Fozle , Islam A. K. M. Nazrul , Asmatulu Eylem , Rahman Muhammad M. , Asmatulu Ramazan
Published: October 2022

The scarcity of useable water is severe and increasing in several regions of the Middle East, Central and Southern Asia, and Northern Africa. However, the earth’s atmosphere contains 37.5 million billion gallons of water in the invisible vapor phase with fast replenishment. The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification reports that by 2025 about 2.4 billion people will suffer from a lack of access to safe drinking water. Extensive research has been conducted during the last two decades to develop nature-inspired nanotechnology-based atmospheric water-harvesting technology (atmospheric water generator, AWG) to provide clean water to humanity. However, the performance of this technology is humidity sensitive, particularly when the relative humidity (RH) is high (>~80% RH). Moreover, the fundamental design principle of the materials system for harvesting atmospheric water is mostly unknown. In this work, we present a promising technology for solar energy-driven clean water production in arid and semi-arid regions and remote communities. A polymeric electrospun hybrid hydrogel consisting of deliquescent salt (CaCl2) and nanomaterials was fabricated, and the atmospheric water vapor harvesting capacity was measured. The harvested water was easily released from the hydrogel under regular sunlight via the photothermal effect. The experimental tests of this hybrid hydrogel (PAN/AM/graphene/CaCl2) demonstrated the feasibility of around 1.04 L of freshwater production per kilogram of the hydrogel (RH 60%). The synergistic effect enabled by photothermal materials and deliquescent salt in the hydrogel network architecture presents controllable interaction with water molecules, simultaneously realizing efficient water harvesting. This technology requires no additional input of energy. When considering the global environmental challenges and exploring the available technologies, a sustainable clean water supply for households, industry, and agriculture can be achieved from the air using this economical and practical technology.
Exploiting the Physicochemical and Antimicrobial Properties of PHB/PEG and PHB/PEG/ALG-e Blends Loaded with Ag Nanoparticles
Authors: Silva Mário R. P. da , Matos Robert S. , Monteiro Michael D. S. , Santos Samuel B. , Filho Henrique D. F. , Andrade George R. S. , Salerno Marco , Almeida Luís E.
Published: October 2022

Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB)-based films containing Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG), esterified sodium alginate (ALG-e) and polymeric additives loaded with Ag nanoparticles (AgNPs) were obtained by a conventional casting method. AgNPs were produced in aqueous suspension and added to polymeric gels using a phase exchange technique. Composite formation was confirmed by finding the Ag peak in the XRD pattern of PHB. The morphological analysis showed that the inclusion of PEG polymer caused the occurrence of pores over the film surface, which were overshadowed by the addition of ALG-e polymer. The PHB functional groups were dominating the FTIR spectrum, whose bands associated with the crystalline and amorphous regions increased after the addition of PEG and ALG-e polymers. Thermal analysis of the films revealed a decrease in the degradation temperature of PHB containing PEG/AgNPs and PEG/ALG-e/AgNPs, suggesting a catalytic effect. The PHB/PEG/ALG-e/AgNPs film combined the best properties of water vapor permeability and hydrophilicity of the different polymers used. All samples showed good antimicrobial activity in vitro, with the greater inhibitory halo observed for the PEG/PEG/AgNPs against Gram positive S. aureus microorganisms. Thus, the PHB/PEG/ALG-e/AgNPs composite demonstrated here is a promising candidate for skin wound healing treatment.
Analysis of Active and Passive Deformation of Expanded Polystyrene Foam under Short-Term Compression
Authors: Vaitkus Saulius , Vėjelis Sigitas , Šeputytė-Jucikė Jurga , Członka Sylwia , Strzelec Krzystof , Kairytė Agnė
Published: October 2022

In this paper, we undertake a detailed analysis of the active and passive deformation of expanded polystyrene (EPS), which is used as a thermal insulating layer in building partitions, under short-term compressive loading. The values of residual strain in 10–40 kg/m3 density EPS after monotonically increasing loading under active deformations of 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, and 60% with the following complete removal are determined. These values are a physical sign of the elastic–plastic state of EPS. It has been shown that the final destruction of cells takes place in EPS when the active strain reaches 50%. Empirical equations are proposed to estimate the residual strain of EPS based on density with determination coefficients varying from 0.744 to 0.986 at a confidence level of 90%. Moreover, graphical interpretations with regression equations for residual strain dependence on density and compressive strength, as well as density and active strain, were proposed with determination coefficients equal to 0.779 and 0.717, respectively.
Structural Response of High-Strength Wire-Reinforced UHPC Slabs Subjected to Bending
Authors: Luo Wangcheng , Luo Xiaoyong , Wei Jun , Sun Dinghao
Published: October 2022

Using high strength wire (HSW) as a longitudinal reinforcement in UHPC can make full use of the outstanding properties of UHPC. In this paper, the flexural test was carried out on normal rebar-reinforced UHPC (NRRU) and HSW reinforced UHPC (HSWRU) slabs. The cracking resistance, failure modes, bearing capacity and deformation characteristics of specimens were investigated. The test results indicated that both HSWRU and NRRU specimens exhibited excellent flexural performance under concentrated loads. Fewer inclined cracks and a slower cracking development process were observed for HSWRU specimens, and brittle failure did not occur during the whole loading process. As compared to HSWRU specimens, the cracking and ultimate load of NRRU specimens increased by 24.64% and 85.47%, respectively, due to a higher reinforcement ratio. Then the theoretical method available for flexural capacity and ductility calculation was proposed, and the feasibility was substantiated through test results. In addition, the traditional deformation ductility coefficient was found to be 30% conservative against the applied energy ductility coefficient. Finally, the extensive parametric analysis revealed that the increase of the reinforcement ratio and the strength of the steel rebar significantly enhanced the ultimate capacity, while the ductility coefficient was obviously weakened. Inversely, those two factors had little impact on the cracking capacity. Moreover, section height was found to be beneficial for both the flexural capacity and ductility of specimens.
Shear Viscosity Overshoots in Polymer Modified Asphalts
Authors: Jasso Martin , Polacco Giovanni , Zanzotto Ludovit
Published: October 2022

Polymer modification is one of the most common methods for improving the performance of asphalt binders. Despite in-depth research, the structural modifications induced by polymers are still not well understood. In this work, steady shear viscosity measurements and cryo-scanning electron microscopy (cryo-SEM) were used to better understand the internal structure of asphalts modified by styrene-butadiene-styrene with and without sulfur as a crosslinking agent, asphalts modified by polyphosphoric acid (PPA), and quaternary asphalt blends modified by SBS, sulfur, and PPA. The results showed that polymer and asphaltenes collaborate, thus SBS forms a three-dimensional network strengthened by asphaltenes clusters. The strength, extension, and physical nature of such a network is revealed by the appearance of overshoots in the viscosity curves. Moreover, the indirect information deduced from the magnitude and shape of the shear viscosity curves successfully correlated with direct observations of the internal structure by cryo-SEM. Steady shear viscosity is thus recommended as a useful tool in studying the structural development of asphalts modified by different technologies.
The Study of Thermal Stability of Mn-Zr-Ce, Mn-Ce and Mn-Zr Oxide Catalysts for CO Oxidation
Authors: Afonasenko T. N. , Glyzdova D. V. , Yurpalov V. L. , Konovalova V. P. , Rogov V. A. , Gerasimov E. Yu. , Bulavchenko O. A.
Published: October 2022

MnOx-CeO2, MnOx-ZrO2, MnOx-ZrO2-CeO2 oxides with the Mn/(Zr + Ce + Mn) molar ratio of 0.3 were synthesized by coprecipitation method followed by calcination in the temperature range of 400–800 °C and characterized by XRD, N2 adsorption, TPR, TEM, and EPR. The catalytic activity was tested in the CO oxidation reaction. It was found that MnOx-CeO2, MnOx-ZrO2-CeO2, MnOx-ZrO2 catalysts, calcined at 400–500 °C, 650–700 °C and 500–650 °C, respectively, show the highest catalytic activity in the reaction of CO oxidation. According to XRD and TEM results, thermal stability of catalysts is determined by the temperature of decomposition of the solid solution Mnx(Ce,Zr)1−xO2. The TPR-H2 and EPR methods showed that the high activity in CO oxidation correlates with the content of easily reduced fine MnOx particles in the samples and the presence of paramagnetic defects in the form of oxygen vacancies. The maximum activity for each series of catalysts is associated with the start of solid solution decomposition. Formation of active phase shifts to the high-temperature region with the addition of zirconium to the MnOx-CeO2 catalyst.