bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic Analysis and Selection Criteria in Bambara Groundnut Accessions Based Yield Performance
Authors: Khaliqi Atiqullah , Rafii Mohd Y. , Mazlan Norida , Jusoh Mashitah , Oladosu Yusuff
Published: August 2021

The knowledge of genetic variability and breeding techniques is crucial in crop improvement programs. This information is especially important in underutilized crops such as Bambara groundnut, which have limited breeding systems and genetic diversity information. Hence, this study evaluated the genetic variability and established the relationship between the yield and its components in Bambara groundnut based on seed weight using multivariate analysis. A field trial was conducted in a randomized complete block design with three replications on 28 lines. Data were collected on 12 agro-morphological traits, and a statistical analysis was conducted using SAS version 9.4 software, while the variance component, genotypic and phenotypic coefficient variation, heritability, and genetic advance values were estimated. A cluster analysis was performed using NT-SYS software to estimate the genetic relations among the accessions. The results showed significant variability among the accessions based on the yield and yield component characteristics. The evaluated lines were grouped into seven primary clusters based on the assessed traits using the UPGMA dendrogram. Based on the overall results, G5LR1P3, G1LR1P3, G4LR1P1, G2SR1P1 and G3SR1P4 performed the best for the yield and yield components. These improved lines are recommended for large-scale evaluation and utilization in future breeding programs to develop high-yield Bambara groundnut varieties.
Feeding Ecology of Wild Brown-Nosed Coatis and Garbage Exploration: A Study in Two Ecological Parks
Authors: Rodrigues Delma Henriques , Calixto Eduardo , Cesario Clarice Silva , Repoles Renata Barcelos , de Paula Lopes Waldomiro , Oliveira Viviane Silva , Brinati Alessandro , Hemetrio Nadja Simbera , Silva Ita Oliveira , Boere Vanner
Published: August 2021

Wild animals that feed on garbage waste are a problem in ecological parks as it can substantially alter their food ecology. Wild coatis that occupy human recreation areas in parks are often observed feeding on garbage, but the ecological consequences are scarcely known. Forty-four fecal samples from females and 12 from males of wild coatis living in two ecological parks (Parque Municipal das Mangabeiras (PMM) and Parque Nacional do Caparaó (PNC)) were analyzed. Multivariate statistics were applied to evaluate the interaction between four variables (fecal volume, composition, place and sex of coatis). A significant interaction between the parks and sexes with regard to volume and food category was not found. Ungrouped analysis allowed for the identification of a decreasing gradient in volume from PNC males, followed by PNC females, PMM males, and PMM females. We did not find differences between categories of food between males and females from PNC and PMM, except for invertebrates. Females from PNC consumed more invertebrates than males and females of PMM, but we did not find differences from PNC males. The coatis of both parks primarily consume invertebrates and vegetables, but garbage residues were found in their feces. Garbage fragments, such as paper, glass, metal, plastic and rope, cause a risk to the health, compromising the conservation efforts of wild coatis. Actions are needed to prevent the access of coatis to dumps in both parks.
Translational Approach to Induce and Evaluate Verocytotoxic E. coli O138 Based Disease in Piglets
Authors: Rossi Luciana , Turin Lauretta , Alborali Giovanni Loris , Demartini Eugenio , Filipe Joel Fernando Soares , Riva Federica , Riccaboni Pietro , Scanziani Eugenio , Trevisi Paolo , Dall’Ara Paola , Dell’Anno Matteo , Baldi Antonella
Published: August 2021

Pig livestock was influenced by several global concerns that imposed a re-thinking of the farming system, which included the reduction in chemical dependency and the development of antimicrobial alternatives. Post-weaning diarrhea and enterotoxaemia caused by Escherichia coli, are serious threats that are responsible for the economic losses related to mortality, morbidity and stunted growth in weaning piglets. The aim of the study was to set up experimental conditions to simulate the simultaneous outbreak of post-weaning diarrhea and enterotoxaemia in weaned piglets, through verocytotoxic O138 Escherichia coli challenge, with a multidisciplinary approach. Eighteen piglets susceptible to F18 VTEC infection were selected by polymerase chain reaction for polymorphism on the fucosyltransferase 1 gene and randomly divided in two experimental groups, non-infected controls (C; n = 6) and infected ones (I; n = 12) and housed into individual pens at the same environmental conditions for 29 days. At day 20, I pigs were orally inoculated with Escherichia coli O138 and fed a high protein ration for 3 days. Zootechnical, clinical, microbiological, histological and immunological parameters were evaluated along the follow up (3 and 9 days). Experimental infection, confirmed by bacteria faecal shedding of the I group, significantly affected the clinical status. The I group showed significantly higher total scores, corresponding to medians of the sum of daily scores from days 1 to 3 (Σ3) and 1 to 9 (Σ9) post infection, epiphora, vitality, hair irregularity, oedema and depression. Histological examination showed evident inflammatory infiltrate of lymphocytes, and follicular hyperplasia in I pigs; in the same group, the immunohistochemical and immunological assays revealed an increase in IgG in the intestinal crypts and CD3-positive T cells in intestinal epithelium. The experimental Escherichia coli infection in controlled conditions is crucial for both the evaluation of innovative compounds and the elucidation of the mechanisms associated with the persistence of antibacterial resistant strains. In conclusion, the adopted infection model, carried out on receptor-mediated susceptible piglets, allowed us to identify a discriminative panel of clinical symptoms related to Escherichia coli O138 infection, and could be used to assess the protective effect of antibiotic alternatives.
Analysis and Design of Single-Phase Unidirectional Transducers with High Directivity
Authors: Sun Xueping , Ge Shaobo , Shao Xiuting , Zhou Shun , Wang Wen , Lin Dabin , Liu Weiguo
Published: August 2021

Electrode-width-controlled (EWC) single-phase unidirectional transducers (SPUDT) contribute to reduction of insertion loss of surface acoustic wave (SAW) devices due to their strong unidirectional properties. In this work, we propose a method to optimize the unidirectionality of EWC-SPUDT based on our research results that the unidirectionality of the EWC-SPUDT cell is strongly related to its reflectivity and its unidirectional angle. Furthermore, in order to ensure strong unidirectionality to achieve low insertion loss, a simulator based on the finite element method (FEM) is used to study the relationship between geometrical configuration of the EWC-SPUDT cell and its reflection coefficient, as well as its transduction coefficient. Simulation results indicate that the reflection coefficient of the optimized EWC-SPUDT cell composed of 128° YX lithium niobite (LiNbO3) substrate and Al electrodes with thickness of 0.3μm reaches the optimal value of 5.17% when the unidirectional angle is designed to be −90°. A SAW delay line is developed with the optimized EWC-SPUDT cell without weighing, and the simulation results are verified by experiments. The experimental results show that the directivity exceeds 30 dB at the center frequency and the insertion loss is just 6.7 dB.
Olive Mill Wastewater as Renewable Raw Materials to Generate High Added-Value Ingredients for Agro-Food Industries
Authors: Foti Paola , Romeo Flora V. , Russo Nunziatina , Pino Alessandra , Vaccalluzzo Amanda , Caggia Cinzia , Randazzo Cinzia L.
Published: August 2021

Olive oil production represents an agro-industrial activity of vital economic importance for many Mediterranean countries. However, it is associated with the generation of a huge amount of by-products, both in solid and liquid forms, mainly constituted by olive mill wastewater, olive pomace, wood, leaves, and stones. Although for many years olive by-products have only been considered as a relevant environmental issue, in the last decades, numerous studies have deeply described their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, antihypertensive, anticancer, anti-hyperglycemic activities. Therefore, the increasing interest in natural bioactive compounds represents a new challenge for olive mills. Studies have focused on optimizing methods to extract phenols from olive oil by-products for pharmaceutical or cosmetic applications and attempts have been made to describe microorganisms and metabolic activity involved in the treatment of such complex and variable by-products. However, few studies have investigated olive oil by-products in order to produce added-value ingredients and/or preservatives for food industries. This review provides an overview of the prospective of liquid olive oil by-products as a source of high nutritional value compounds to produce new functional additives or ingredients and to explore potential and future research opportunities.
Biomimicry and the Built Environment, Learning from Nature’s Solutions
Authors: Jamei Elmira , Vrcelj Zora
Published: August 2021

The growing interest in biomimicry in built environments highlights the awareness raised among designers on the potentials nature offers to human and system function improvements. Biomimicry has been widely utilized in advanced material technology. However, its potential in sustainable architecture and construction has yet to be discussed in depth. Thus, this study offers a comprehensive review of the use of biomimicry in architecture and structural engineering. It also reviews the methods in which biomimicry assists in achieving efficient, sustainable built environments. The first part of this review paper introduces the concept of biomimicry historically and practically, discusses the use of biomimicry in design and architecture, provides a comprehensive overview of the potential and benefits of biomimicry in architecture, and explores how biomimicry can be utilized in building envelops. Then, in the second part, the integration of biomimicry in structural engineering and construction is thoroughly explained through several case studies. Finally, biomimicry in architectural and structural design of built environments in creating climate-sensitive and energy-efficient design is explained.
Development of Hydraulic Turbodrills for Deep Well Drilling
Authors: Dvoynikov Mikhail V. , Sidorkin Dmitry I. , Kunshin Andrey A. , Kovalev Danil A.
Published: August 2021

The article discusses the possibility of improving the design of the turbine of a hydraulic drilling machine for drilling wells in very hard rocks and at considerable depths (5000–12,000 m). The analysis of the results of studies on the technical and technological characteristics of downhole drilling motors showed that it is impossible to ensure stable operation due to the limitation on the operating temperature, while with an increase in the flow rate of the drilling fluid, they do not provide the required power on the spindle shaft, and cannot reach high-speed drilling. In such conditions, turbodrills with a significant change in the profile of the stator and rotor blades and a reinforced support unit are most suitable. The paper presents an invariant mathematical model, which made it possible to determine the optimal geometric parameters based on preselected boundary conditions and the main performance characteristics of the turbine being developed. The results obtained were tested by the finite element method, which showed a convergence of 12.5%. At the same time, zones with the lowest and highest flow rates were identified. Additionally, this paper presents a comparative analysis of the obtained hydraulic turbine with turbodrills of the TSSH-178T and Neyrfor TTT 2 7/8 brands. In comparison with the domestic turbodrill, the developed turbine design shows a 13-fold reduction in its length and a 3-fold reduction in torque, provided that the maximum power is increased by 1.5 times. In comparison with the foreign analog, there is a decrease in length by 8.5 times, an increase in torque by 5 times, and in maximum power by 6.5 times.
Reinitializing Sea Surface Temperature in the Ensemble Intermediate Coupled Model for Improved Forecasts
Authors: Injan Sittisak , Wangwongchai Angkool , Humphries Usa , Khan Amir , Yusuf Abdullahi
Published: August 2021

The Ensemble Intermediate Coupled Model (EICM) is a model used for studying the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) phenomenon in the Pacific Ocean, which is anomalies in the Sea Surface Temperature (SST) are observed. This research aims to implement Cressman to improve SST forecasts. The simulation considers two cases in this work: the control case and the Cressman initialized case. These cases are simulations using different inputs where the two inputs differ in terms of their resolution and data source. The Cressman method is used to initialize the model with an analysis product based on satellite data and in situ data such as ships, buoys, and Argo floats, with a resolution of 0.25 × 0.25 degrees. The results of this inclusion are the Cressman Initialized Ensemble Intermediate Coupled Model (CIEICM). Forecasting of the sea surface temperature anomalies was conducted using both the EICM and the CIEICM. The results show that the calculation of SST field from the CIEICM was more accurate than that from the EICM. The forecast using the CIEICM initialization with the higher-resolution satellite-based analysis at a 6-month lead time improved the root mean square deviation to 0.794 from 0.808 and the correlation coefficient to 0.630 from 0.611, compared the control model that was directly initialized with the low-resolution in-situ-based analysis.
A Pathfinder in High-Pressure Bioscience: In Memoriam of Gaston Hui Bon Hoa
Authors: Davydov Dmitri R. , Jung Christiane , Petsko Gregory A. , Sligar Stephen G. , Kornblatt Jack A.
Published: August 2021

On 26 July 2020, our colleague and friend Dr [...]
Alcohol, Cannabis and Crossfading: Concerns for COVID-19 Disease Severity
Authors: Sivaraman Vijay , Richey Morgan M. , Nasir ABM
Published: August 2021

Risk factors for severe COVID-19 pathology are currently being investigated worldwide. The emergence of this highly infectious respiratory disease has plagued the world, with varying severity across populations of different age, race, and socio-economic level. These data suggest that other environmental or social factors may contribute to this disease’s severity. Using a mouse model, we identify heavy alcohol and cannabinoid consumption as risk factors for increased pulmonary pathology in the setting of exposure to a microbial pulmonary pathogen (K. pneumoniae). We present observational evidence that pneumonia patients admitted to North Carolina hospitals have longer lengths of stay when they endorse alcohol use or have conditions considered alcohol attributable. We are concerned that the observed increase in alcohol and legal cannabinoid sales during lockdown and quarantine may contribute to increased pulmonary pathology among patients who become infected with COVID-19.
Exosome microRNAs in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Pilot Study
Authors: Pregnolato Francesca , Cova Lidia , Doretti Alberto , Bardelli Donatella , Silani Vincenzo , Bossolasco Patrizia
Published: August 2021

The pathogenesis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a lethal neurodegenerative disease, remains undisclosed. Mutations in ALS related genes have been identified, albeit the majority of cases are unmutated. Clinical pathology of ALS suggests a prion-like cell-to-cell diffusion of the disease possibly mediated by exosomes, small endocytic vesicles involved in the propagation of RNA molecules and proteins. In this pilot study, we focused on exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs), key regulators of many signaling pathways. We analyzed serum-derived exosomes from ALS patients in comparison with healthy donors. Exosomes were obtained by a commercial kit. Purification of miRNAs was performed using spin column chromatography and RNA was reverse transcribed into cDNA. All samples were run on the miRCURY LNATM Universal RT miRNA PCR Serum/Plasma Focus panel. An average of 29 miRNAs were detectable per sample. The supervised analysis did not identify any statistically significant difference among the groups indicating that none of the miRNA of our panel has a strong pathological role in ALS. However, selecting samples with the highest miRNA content, six biological processes shared across miRNAs through the intersection of the GO categories were identified. Our results, combined to those reported in the literature, indicated that further investigation is needed to elucidate the role of exosome-derived miRNA in ALS.
Large Animal Studies to Reduce the Foreign Body Reaction in Brain–Computer Interfaces: A Systematic Review
Authors: Mian Shan Yasin , Honey Jonathan Roy , Carnicer-Lombarte Alejandro , Barone Damiano Giuseppe
Published: August 2021

Brain–computer interfaces (BCI) are reliant on the interface between electrodes and neurons to function. The foreign body reaction (FBR) that occurs in response to electrodes in the brain alters this interface and may pollute detected signals, ultimately impeding BCI function. The size of the FBR is influenced by several key factors explored in this review; namely, (a) the size of the animal tested, (b) anatomical location of the BCI, (c) the electrode morphology and coating, (d) the mechanics of electrode insertion, and (e) pharmacological modification (e.g., drug eluting electrodes). Trialing methods to reduce FBR in vivo, particularly in large models, is important to enable further translation in humans, and we systematically reviewed the literature to this effect. The OVID, MEDLINE, EMBASE, SCOPUS and Scholar databases were searched. Compiled results were analysed qualitatively. Out of 8388 yielded articles, 13 were included for analysis, with most excluded studies experimenting on murine models. Cats, rabbits, and a variety of breeds of minipig/marmoset were trialed. On average, over 30% reduction in inflammatory cells of FBR on post mortem histology was noted across intervention groups. Similar strategies to those used in rodent models, including tip modification and flexible and sinusoidal electrode configurations, all produced good effects in histology; however, a notable absence of trials examining the effect on BCI end-function was noted. Future studies should assess whether the reduction in FBR correlates to an improvement in the functional effect of the intended BCI.
Microelectrode Sensor for Real-Time Measurements of Nitrite in the Living Brain, in the Presence of Ascorbate
Authors: Monteiro Tiago , Dias Cândida , Lourenço Cátia F. , Ledo Ana , Barbosa Rui M. , Almeida M. Gabriela
Published: August 2021

The impaired blood flow to the brain causes a decrease in the supply of oxygen that can result in cerebral ischemia; if the blood flow is not restored quickly, neuronal injury or death will occur. Under hypoxic conditions, the production of nitric oxide (●NO), via the classical L-arginine–●NO synthase pathway, is reduced, which can compromise ●NO-dependent vasodilation. However, the alternative nitrite (NO2−) reduction to ●NO, under neuronal hypoxia and ischemia conditions, has been viewed as an in vivo storage pool of ●NO, complementing its enzymatic synthesis. Brain research is thus demanding suitable tools to probe nitrite’s temporal and spatial dynamics in vivo. In this work, we propose a new method for the real-time measurement of nitrite concentration in the brain extracellular space, using fast-scan cyclic voltammetry (FSCV) and carbon microfiber electrodes as sensing probes. In this way, nitrite was detected anodically and in vitro, in the 5–500 µM range, in the presence of increasing physiological concentrations of ascorbate (100–500 µM). These sensors were then tested for real-time and in vivo recordings in the anesthetized rat hippocampus; using fast electrochemical techniques, local and reproducible transients of nitrite oxidation signals were observed, upon pressure ejection of an exogenous nitrite solution into the brain tissue. Nitrite microsensors are thus a valuable tool for investigating the role of this inorganic anion in brain redox signaling.
Olfactory Virtual Reality: A New Frontier in the Treatment and Prevention of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: S. Herz Rachel
Published: August 2021

This perspective piece reviews the clinical condition of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which is currently increasing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and recent research illustrating how olfaction is being incorporated into virtual reality (VR) platforms. I then discuss the latest work examining the potential of olfactory virtual reality (OVR) for the treatment of PTSD. From this foundation I suggest novel ways in which OVR may be implemented in PTSD therapy and harnessed for preventing the development of PTSD. Perceptual and chemical features of olfaction that should be considered in OVR applications are also discussed.
A Systematic Review of Sleep in Patients with Disorders of Consciousness: From Diagnosis to Prognosis
Authors: Pan Jiahui , Wu Jianhui , Liu Jie , Wu Jiawu , Wang Fei
Published: August 2021

With the development of intensive care technology, the number of patients who survive acute severe brain injury has increased significantly. At present, it is difficult to diagnose the patients with disorders of consciousness (DOCs) because motor responses in these patients may be very limited and inconsistent. Electrophysiological criteria, such as event-related potentials or motor imagery, have also been studied to establish a diagnosis and prognosis based on command-following or active paradigms. However, the use of such task-based techniques in DOC patients is methodologically complex and requires careful analysis and interpretation. The present paper focuses on the analysis of sleep patterns for the evaluation of DOC and its relationships with diagnosis and prognosis outcomes. We discuss the concepts of sleep patterns in patients suffering from DOC, identification of this challenging population, and the prognostic value of sleep. The available literature on individuals in an unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (UWS) or minimally conscious state (MCS) following traumatic or nontraumatic severe brain injury is reviewed. We can distinguish patients with different levels of consciousness by studying sleep patients with DOC. Most MCS patients have sleep and wake alternations, sleep spindles and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, while UWS patients have few EEG changes. A large number of sleep spindles and organized sleep–wake patterns predict better clinical outcomes. It is expected that this review will promote our understanding of sleep EEG in DOC.
Phytogalactolipid dLGG Inhibits Mouse Melanoma Brain Metastasis through Regulating Oxylipin Activity and Re-Programming Macrophage Polarity in the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Yang Chung-Chih , Chang Meng-Ting , Chang Cheng-Kuei , Shyur Lie-Fen
Published: August 2021

Current conventional cancer therapies for melanoma brain metastasis (MBM) remain ineffective. In this study, we demonstrated the bioefficacy of a phyto-glyceroglycolipid, 1,2-di-O-α-linolenoyl-3-O-β-galactopyranosyl-sn-glycerol (dLGG) alone, or in combination with liposomal doxorubicin (Lip-DOX) or Avastin against MBM in a syngeneic B16BM4COX−2/Luc brain-seeking melanoma mouse model. Treatment with dLGG–10, dLGG–25, dLGG–10 + Avastin–5, Lipo-DOX–2, dLGG–10 + Lipo-DOX–2 or Lipo-DOX–2 + Avastin–5 suppressed, respectively, 17.9%, 59.1%, 55.7%, 16.2%, 44.5% and 72.4% of MBM in mice relative to the untreated tumor control. Metastatic PD-L1+ melanoma cells, infiltration of M2-like macrophages and CD31+ endothelial cells, and high expression levels of 15-LOX/CYP450 4A enzymes in the brain tumor microenvironment of the tumor control mice were significantly attenuated in dLGG-treated mice; conversely, M1-like resident microglia and cytotoxic T cells were increased. A lipidomics study showed that dLGG promoted B16BM4 cells to secrete oxylipins 9,10-/12,13-EpOMEs into the culture medium. Furthermore, the conditioned medium of B16BM4 cells pretreated with dLGG or 9,10-EpOMEs + 12,13-EpOMEs drove M2-like macrophages to polarize into M1-like macrophages in vitro. An ex vivo 3D-culture assay further demonstrated that dLGG, 9,10-EpOME or 9,10-EpOME + 12,13-EpOME pretreatment attenuated B16BM4 cells invading brain tissue, and prevented microglia/macrophages infiltrating into the interface of melanoma plug and brain organ/tissue. In summary, this report provides a novel therapeutic strategy and mechanistic insights into phytogalactolipid dLGG for combating MBM.
Photodynamic Therapy Combined with Bcl-2/Bcl-xL Inhibition Increases the Noxa/Mcl-1 Ratio Independent of Usp9X and Synergistically Enhances Apoptosis in Glioblastoma
Authors: Golla Carolin , Bilal Mayas , Dwucet Annika , Bader Nicolas , Anthonymuthu Jenson , Heiland Tim , Pruss Maximilian , Westhoff Mike-Andrew , Siegelin Markus David , Capanni Felix , Wirtz Christian Rainer , Kast Richard Eric , Halatsch Marc-Eric , Karpel-Massler Georg
Published: August 2021

The purpose of this study was to assess in vitro whether the biological effects of 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA)-based photodynamic therapy are enhanced by inhibition of the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL in different glioblastoma models. Pre-clinical testing of a microcontroller-based device emitting light of 405 nm wavelength in combination with exposure to 5-ALA (PDT) and the Bcl-2/Bcl-xL inhibitor ABT-263 (navitoclax) was performed in human established and primary cultured glioblastoma cells as well as glioma stem-like cells. We applied cell count analyses to assess cellular proliferation and Annexin V/PI staining to examine pro-apoptotic effects. Western blot analyses and specific knockdown experiments using siRNA were used to examine molecular mechanisms of action. Bcl-2/Bcl-xL inhibition synergistically enhanced apoptosis in combination with PDT. This effect was caspase-dependent. On the molecular level, PDT caused an increased Noxa/Mcl-1 ratio, which was even more pronounced when combined with ABT-263 in a Usp9X-independent manner. Our data showed that Bcl-2/Bcl-xL inhibition increases the response of glioblastoma cells toward photodynamic therapy. This effect can be partly attributed to cytotoxicity and is likely related to a pro-apoptotic shift because of an increased Noxa/Mcl-1 ratio. The results of this study warrant further investigation.
Fatty Acid Receptor CD36 Functions as a Surrogate Parameter for Lymph Node Metastasis in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Haidari Selgai , Tröltzsch Matthias , Knösel Thomas , Liokatis Paris , Kasintsova Anastasia , Eberl Marian , Ortner Florian , Otto Sven , Fegg Florian , Boskov Marko , Probst Florian A.
Published: August 2021

Purpose: To investigate the expression pattern of CD36 in a patient population with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and to correlate CD36 expression with clinical and histopathological parameters. The hypothesis was that CD36 expression correlates with the occurrence of lymph node metastasis. Methods: To address the study objectives, a retrospective cohort study was conducted. Study variables included demographic, histopathological and survival data. CD36 expression patterns were assessed by immunohistochemistry on tissue microarrays (TMA). Logistic regression analysis, survival analysis and Cox proportional hazards model were performed. Results: High CD36 expression correlated significantly with a higher T-status, grading and occurrence of lymph node metastasis. The logistic regression with binary N status as a dependent variable showed that high CD36 expression increased the chance for lymph node metastasis 45-fold (OR = 44.7, 95% CI: 10.0–316). Patients with high CD36 expression had lower probabilities of progression-free survival. CD36 had a small and non-significant independent influence on progression-free survival. Conclusions: CD36 is expressed in OSCC and correlates with tumor grading, T-status, and especially the occurrence of lymph node metastasis. CD36 may be useful for risk stratification regarding lymph node metastasis in OSCC.
Development of the BioHybrid Assay: Combining Primary Human Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells and Blood to Measure Vascular Calcification Propensity
Authors: Jaminon Armand M. G. , Akbulut Asim C. , Rapp Niko , Kramann Rafael , Biessen Erik A. L. , Temmerman Lieve , Mees Barend , Brandenburg Vincent , Dzhanaev Robert , Jahnen-Dechent Willi , Floege Juergen , Uitto Jouni , Reutelingsperger Chris P. , Schurgers Leon J.
Published: August 2021

Background: Vascular calcification is an active process that increases cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. There is still no consensus on an appropriate biomarker for vascular calcification. We reasoned that the biomarker for vascular calcification is the collection of all blood components that can be sensed and integrated into a calcification response by human vascular smooth muscle cells (hVSMCs). Methods: We developed a new cell-based high-content assay, the BioHybrid assay, to measure in vitro calcification. The BioHybrid assay was compared with the o-Cresolphthalein assay and the T50 assay. Serum and plasma were derived from different cohort studies including chronic kidney disease (CKD) stages III, IV, V and VD (on dialysis), pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE) and other cardiovascular diseases including serum from participants with mild and extensive coronary artery calcification (CAC). hVSMCs were exposed to serum and plasma samples, and in vitro calcification was measured using AlexaFluor®-546 tagged fetuin-A as calcification sensor. Results: The BioHybrid assay measured the kinetics of calcification in contrast to the endpoint o-Cresolphthalein assay. The BioHybrid assay was more sensitive to pick up differences in calcification propensity than the T50 assay as determined by measuring control as well as pre- and post-dialysis serum samples of CKD patients. The BioHybrid response increased with CKD severity. Further, the BioHybrid assay discriminated between calcification propensity of individuals with a high CAC index and individuals with a low CAC index. Patients with PXE had an increased calcification response in the BioHybrid assay as compared to both spouse and control plasma samples. Finally, vitamin K1 supplementation showed lower in vitro calcification, reflecting changes in delta Agatston scores. Lower progression within the BioHybrid and on Agatston scores was accompanied by lower dephosphorylated-uncarboxylated matrix Gla protein levels. Conclusion: The BioHybrid assay is a novel approach to determine the vascular calcification propensity of an individual and thus may add to personalised risk assessment for CVD.
Simple Method for Establishing Primary Leporidae Skin Fibroblast Cultures
Authors: Abade dos Santos Fábio A. , Carvalho C. L. , Almeida Isabel , Fagulha Teresa , Rammos Fernanda , Barros Sílvia C. , Henriques Margarida , Luís Tiago , Duarte Margarida D.
Published: August 2021

Commercial hare and rabbit immortalized cell lines are extremely limited regarding the many species within the lagomorpha order. To overcome this limitation, researchers and technicians must establish primary cell cultures derived from biopsies or embryos. Among all cell types, fibroblasts are plastic and resilient cells, highly convenient for clinical and fundamental research but also for diagnosis, particularly for viral isolation. Here, we describe a fast and cheap method to produce primary fibroblast cell cultures from leporid species, using dispase II, a protease that allows dermal–epidermal separation, followed by a simple enzymatic digestion with trypsin. This method allows for the establishment of an in vitro cell culture system with an excellent viability yield and purity level higher than 85% and enables the maintenance and even immortalization of leporid fibroblastic cells derived from tissues already differentiated.
Lentiviral Vectors Delivered with Biomaterials as Therapeutics for Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Shortiss Ciara , Howard Linda , McMahon Siobhan S.
Published: August 2021

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating trauma that can cause permanent disability, life-long chronic issues for sufferers and is a big socioeconomic burden. Regenerative medicine aims to overcome injury caused deficits and restore function after SCI through gene therapy and tissue engineering approaches. SCI has a multifaceted pathophysiology. Due to this, producing therapies that target multiple different cellular and molecular mechanisms might prove to be a superior approach in attempts at regeneration. Both biomaterials and nucleic acid delivery via lentiviral vectors (LVs) have proven to promote repair and restoration of function post SCI in animal models. Studies indicate that a combination of biomaterials and LVs is more effective than either approach alone. This review presents studies supporting the use of LVs and LVs delivered with biomaterials in therapies for SCI and summarises methods to combine LVs with biomaterials for SCI treatment. By summarising this knowledge this review aims to demonstrate how LV delivery with biomaterials can augment/compliment both LV and biomaterial therapeutic effects in SCI.
Regulation of Paneth Cell Function by RNA-Binding Proteins and Noncoding RNAs
Authors: Chung Hee K. , Xiao Lan , Jaladanki Krishna C. , Wang Jian-Ying
Published: August 2021

Paneth cells are specialized intestinal epithelial cells that are located at the base of small intestinal crypts and play a vital role in preserving the gut epithelium homeostasis. Paneth cells act as a safeguard from bacterial translocation across the epithelium and constitute the niche for intestinal stem cells in the small intestine by providing multiple niche signals. Recently, Paneth cells have become the focal point of investigations defining the mechanisms underlying the epithelium-microbiome interactions and pathogenesis of chronic gut mucosal inflammation and bacterial infection. Function of Paneth cells is tightly regulated by numerous factors at different levels, while Paneth cell defects have been widely documented in various gut mucosal diseases in humans. The post-transcription events, specific change in mRNA stability and translation by RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) and noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are implicated in many aspects of gut mucosal physiology by modulating Paneth cell function. Deregulation of RBPs and ncRNAs and subsequent Paneth cell defects are identified as crucial elements of gut mucosal pathologies. Here, we overview the posttranscriptional regulation of Paneth cells by RBPs and ncRNAs, with a particular focus on the increasing evidence of RBP HuR and long ncRNA H19 in this process. We also discuss the involvement of Paneth cell dysfunction in altered susceptibility of the intestinal epithelium to chronic inflammation and bacterial infection following disrupted expression of HuR and H19.
Utilizing the Cool-Down Phenomenon to Differentiate Supraventricular Tachycardias in a Patient with COVID-19 Infection
Authors: Sawalha Khalid , Gondhalekar Vikram Baldini , Klammer Nathan , Habash Fuad , Paydak Hakan
Published: August 2021

A 63-year-old male patient with a history of hypertension, diabetes mellitus type 2, prostate cancer and class two obesity was admitted for encephalopathy. During his hospital stay he developed narrow complex tachycardia and it was difficult to definitively diagnose the underlying arrhythmia. Observation of the cool down phenomenon on telemetry strip allowed us to make the diagnosis of atrial tachycardia and elegantly rule out other causes. We report this interesting case of narrow complex tachycardia.
Application of Ethylene Oxide Gas and Argon Gas Mixture System Method for Scale Deacidification of Cellulose-Based Cultural Heritage Collections
Authors: Qi Yunpeng , Jia Zhihui , Zhou Yajun , Wang Yong , Zhao Guangtao , Chao Xiaolian , Xing Huiping , Li Yuhu
Published: August 2021

Deacidification plays an important role in the conservation of paper-based cultural heritage objects. Herein, a novel approach for the conservation of scale paper-based cultural heritage objects is proposed using a mixture of argon and ethylene oxide (EO-Ar) for the first time. The optimum process conditions for deacidification of ethylene oxide and argon mixture system are determined by orthogonal testing. To evaluate the stabilization effect of paper treated with EO-Ar, the degradation of the mechanical properties (tensile strength, folding endurance and tearing strength tests) of paper after artificial aging was evaluated. The results show that the treated paper had better durability with respect to tensile strength, folding endurance and tearing strength. Additionally, thermal stability, crystallinity and fiber wall thickness increased after EO-Ar treated, which was determined by scanning electron microscope (SEM), diffraction of X-rays (XRD), and thermo gravimetric (TG) analysis. Some compounds, such as polyethylene glycol, organic acids, esters, were detected by GC-MS after treatment with EO-Ar. Two hundred and forty books including acidic, weak acidic and alkaline books were successfully deacidified, resulting in pH values of paper ranges suitable for paper preservation. Finally, a possible mechanism of deacidification of EO-Ar was proposed.
Multidimensional Aligned Nanowires Array: Toward Bendable and Stretchable Strain Sensors
Authors: Meng Lili , Zhu Jingchao , Bian Ruixin , Xu Bojie , Tang Zhongxue , Zhang Yu , Liu Huan
Published: August 2021

Micropatterns based on the oriented nanowires have attracted research interests for their unique physicochemical advantages in various applications of electric microdevices. Here, we proposed a facile fibrous dewetting strategy by spreading and dewetting of the silver nanowire (AgNW) solution on the vertical aligned carbon nanotube array (ACNTs) for preparing multidimensional aligned nanowires array, based on the elastocapillary coalescence. The unidirectional shrinking of the liquid film on the top of ACNTs happens during the dewetting process, as a result of the elastocapillary coalescence of ACNTs, which drives the AgNWs aligned along normal direction of liquid film shrinkage on the top of ACNTs. Thus, a multidimensional aligned NWs array was prepared, composing of the horizontally oriented NWs of top layer and vertical ACNT bundles of under layer connected by CNT yarns. A bendable flexible electrode was prepared using the as-prepared multidimensional aligned nanowires array, showing high stability during bending cycles (1800 cycles). Moreover, the multidimensional aligned nanowires array is also applicable for fabricating strain sensors, which show stable resistance response under strain. We envision that the as-developed approach shed new light on easy manufacture NW-based micropatterns.
Artificial Intelligence for Health
Authors: Celesti Antonio , De Falco Ivanoe , Galletta Antonino , Sannino Giovanna
Published: August 2021

Health is one of the major research topics that has been attracting cross-disciplinary research groups [...]
Effect of Erosion Behavior of FeO-CaO-SiO2-MgO-Al2O3 Blast Furnace Primary Slag on Al2O3 Substrate
Authors: Pan Xiangyang , Shen Fengman , Gao Qiangjian , Jiang Xin , Zheng Haiyan
Published: August 2021

Al2O3 substrate is widely used as a lining refractory material throughout the blast furnace (BF) process. Accordingly, the erosion of Al2O3 refractory by molten slag has a negative influence on the running cost and smooth operation of BFs. The effect of the erosion behavior of BF primary slag containing FeO-CaO-SiO2-MgO-Al2O3 on Al2O3 substrate refractory was fundamentally investigated using the high-temperature contact angle method and FactSage thermodynamic software based on the composition of BF primary slag in a typical iron and steel enterprise of China. The results showed that the primary slag mentioned above was easily wetted with Al2O3 substrate, and the observed contact angles were 24.5° and 22.0°, when the FeO mass fraction (w(FeO)) was maintained at 10% and 15% of the primary slag, respectively. Moreover, the starting melting temperature of the primary slag with high FeO content, of 1263 °C, was lower. The erosion thickness between the slag and Al2O3 substrate increased from 19.23 to 23.17 μm as the added w(FeO) increased from 10% to 15%. In addition, it was observed via SEM-EDS analysis that the interface layer was formed, and high-melting-point compounds were generated during the wetting process. This was attributed to the interaction between the molten slag and Al2O3 existing in the substrate, which may have inhibited the continuous dissolution of the Al2O3 in the substrate into slag. Good surface wettability and the dissolution of the Al2O3 substrate refractory into the primary slag of the BF are two dominant factors leading to the erosion of the refractory.
Performance Evaluation of Sustainable Concrete Comprising Waste Polypropylene Food Tray Fibers and Palm Oil Fuel Ash Exposed to Sulfate and Acid Attacks
Authors: Mohammadhosseini Hossein , Alyousef Rayed , Poi Ngian Shek , Tahir Mahmood Md.
Published: August 2021

Sulfate and acid attacks cause material degradation, which is a severe durability concern for cementitious materials. The performance of concrete composites comprising waste plastic food trays (WPFTs) as low-cost fibers and palm oil fuel ash (POFA) exposed to acid and sulfate solutions has been evaluated in an immersion period of 12 months. In this study, visual assessment, mass variation, compressive strength, and microstructural analyses are investigated. For ordinary Portland cement (OPC), six concrete mixtures, including 0–1% WPFT fibers with a length of 20 mm, were prepared. In addition, another six mixtures with similar fiber dosages were cast, with 30% POFA replacing OPC. It was discovered that adding WPFT fibers and POFA to concrete reduced its workability. POFA concrete mixes were found to have higher long-term compressive strength than OPC concrete mixes cured in water. As a result of the positive interaction between POFA and WPFT fibers, both the crack formation and spalling of concrete samples exposed to acid and sulfate solutions were reduced, as was the strength loss. The study’s findings show that using WPFT fibers combined with POFA to develop a novel fiber-reinforced concrete subjected to chemical solutions is technically and environmentally feasible. WPFT fibers have a significant protective effect on concrete against chemical attacks.
Combined Effects of Binary Chemical Reaction/Activation Energy on the Flow of Sisko Fluid over a Curved Surface
Authors: McCash Luthais B. , Zehra Iffat , Al-Zubaidi Abdou , Amjad Mohammad , Abbas Nadeem , Nadeem Sohail
Published: August 2021

In this study, a modified Sisko fluid with Buongiorno model effects over a curved surface was considered. The MHD was applied normally to the flow direction, and the effects of chemical reacted and active energy at the curved surface is also discussed. We chose this pertinent non-Newtonian fluid model since it best represents blood composition, and thus helps us venture into complex blood flow problems. Since the flow is discharged over a curved shape, we therefore commissioned curvilinear coordinates to best portray our envisaged problem. We were also required to define various sundry parameters to make our mathematical equations easily solvable. Mathematical modelling was completed by considering traditional assumptions, including boundary layer approximation. Numerical simulation was conducted using MATLAB solver bvp4c. Several numerical tests were conducted to select the best blend of the linked parameters. We noticed thermal flux upsurged when the chemical reaction parameter was increased with the magnetic indicator parameter caused the flow to slow down, while an increasing amount of activation energy enhanced the concentration of the fluid. The numerical results and impacts of assorted parameters on different profiles are elaborated with the help of graphs and a table.
BiOBr Precursor Solutions Modified Cement Paste: The Photocatalytic Performance and Effects
Authors: Geng Zhi , Zhang Lina , Wang Jin , Yu Yanfeng , Zhang Guoling , Cheng Xin , Wang Dan
Published: August 2021

The potential of photocatalysts modified cement-based materials in degrading environmental pollutants is evident in previous studies, but the application of photocatalytic cement-based materials still appears limited in actual practice due to the dispersion effect. This work seeks to prepare photocatalytic cement paste by mixing cement with BiOBr precursor solutions in terms of the improvement of dispersion efficiency, and additional hydrothermal conditions provided by autoclaved curing period are required to activate the photocatalytic activity of photocatalysts crystals. The presence of BiOBr precursor solutions results in an increase of RhB degradation rate of up to 45.4% and the NOx removal efficiency was up to 4.4%, and the formation of BiOBr photocatalysts crystals is the main reason for photocatalytic performance enhancement. The morphology of photocatalysts and the pore size distribution of cement paste also contribute to the photocatalytic activity enhancement by the exposed surface of photocatalysts, which are supported by the analyses of Scanning Electron Microscope and Mercury Intrusion Porosimetry results. A new mechanism is suggested to explain the synergistic role of crystals and microstructure on the enhancement of photocatalytic activity with the extension of autoclaved curing time. As supports for photocatalysts, the development changes of compressive strength of cement paste are also discussed.
Exploring Academic Self-Concepts Depending on Acculturation Profile. Investigation of a Possible Factor for Immigrant Students’ School Success
Authors: Lilla Nanine , Thürer Sebastian , Nieuwenboom Wim , Schüpbach Marianne
Published: August 2021

Academic achievement and academic self-concepts are reciprocally related; hence, investigating academic self-concepts should offer a potential approach for gaining a better understanding of immigrant students’ (lack of) school success. Proposing that immigrant students’ acculturation orientations need to be taken into account, in this study, we empirically investigate whether immigrant students’ general and domain-specific academic self-concept facets differ from those of non-immigrant students depending on their acculturation profile. Based on data from the German National Educational Panel Study (NEPS), we find initial indications that immigrant students’ academic self-concept facets are subject to their acculturation profile. The idea that acculturation may influence the known comparisons relevant for self-concept development will be discussed.