bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sexual Differentiation and Primordial Germ Cell Distribution in the Early Horse Fetus
Authors: Scarlet Dragos , Handschuh Stephan , Reichart Ursula , Podico Giorgia , Ellerbrock Robyn E. , Demyda-Peyrás Sebastián , Canisso Igor F. , Walter Ingrid , Aurich Christine
Published: August 2021

It was the aim of this study to characterize the development of the gonads and genital ducts in the equine fetus around the time of sexual differentiation. This included the identification and localization of the primordial germ cell population. Equine fetuses between 45 and 60 days of gestation were evaluated using a combination of micro-computed tomography scanning, immunohistochemistry, and multiplex immunofluorescence. Fetal gonads increased in size 23-fold from 45 to 60 days of gestation, and an even greater increase was observed in the metanephros volume. Signs of mesonephros atrophy were detected during this time. Tubular structures of the fetal testes were present from day 50 onwards, whereas cell clusters dominated in the fetal ovary. The genital ducts were well-differentiated and presented a lumen in all samples. No sign of mesonephric or paramesonephric duct degeneration was detected. Expression of AMH was strong in the fetal testes but absent in ovaries. Irrespective of sex, primordial germ cells selectively expressed LIN28. Migration of primordial germ cells from the mesonephros to the gonad was detected at 45 days, but not at 60 days of development. Their number and distribution within the gonad were influenced (p < 0.05) by fetal sex. Most primordial germ cells (86.8 ± 3.2% in females and 84.6 ± 4.7% in males) were characterized as pluripotent according to co-localization with CD117. However, only a very small percentage of primordial germ cells were proliferating (7.5 ± 1.7% in females and 3.2 ± 1.2% in males) based on co-localization with Ki67. It can be concluded that gonadal sexual differentiation in the horse occurs asynchronously with regard to sex but already before 45 days of gestation.
Genome-Wide Association Study for Fatty Acid Composition in American Angus Cattle
Authors: Dawood Muhammad , Kramer Luke Matthew , Shabbir Muhammad Imran , Reecy James Mark
Published: August 2021

Livestock is an important commodity playing a major role in the global economy. Red meat plays an important role in human life, as it is a good source of animal protein and energy. The fatty acid content of beef has been shown to impact the eating experience and nutritional value of beef. Therefore, this study aimed to identify genomic regions which can account for genetic variation in meat fatty acid content. Genotypes imputed to the Illumina BovineHD 770K BeadChip were used in this study. Thirty-six 1-Mb genomic regions with a posterior probability of inclusion (PPI) greater than 0.90 were identified to be associated with variation in the content of at least one fatty acid. The genomic regions (1Mb) which were associated with more than one fatty acid trait with high genetic variance and harbored good candidate genes were on Chromosome (Chr) 6 (fatty acid binding protein 2), Chr 19 (thyroid hormone receptor alpha, fatty acid synthase), Chr 26 (stearoyl-CoA desaturase), and Chr 29 (thyroid hormone responsive, fatty acid desaturase 2, and fatty acid desaturase 3). Further studies are required to identify the causal variants within the identified genomic regions. Findings from the present study will help to increase understanding of the variation in fatty acid content of beef and help to enhance selection for beef with improved fatty acid composition.
Rumen Bacterial Community of Grazing Lactating Yaks (Poephagus grunniens) Supplemented with Concentrate Feed and/or Rumen-Protected Lysine and Methionine
Authors: Liu Hu , Jiang Hui , Hao Lizhuang , Cao Xuliang , Degen Allan , Zhou Jianwei , Zhang Chengfu
Published: August 2021

Traditionally, yaks graze only natural pasture all year round without supplements. Forage intake of lactating yaks is below energy and protein requirements, even in the summer, and suckling yaks lose a substantial amount of significant body weight. Today, to mitigate the loss in body weight, supplementary feed is being offered to lactating yaks. However, the effects of supplementary feed on ruminal bacterial communities in lactating yaks is unknown. In the current study, we examined the effect of supplementary feed on ruminal microbiota, using 16S rRNA sequencing, and on volatile fatty acids (VFAs). Twenty-four lactating yaks of similar body weight (218 ± 19.5 kg) and grazing natural pasture were divided randomly into four groups and received different supplements: (1) rumen-protected amino acids (RPA); (2) concentrate feed (C); (3) RPA plus C (RPA+C); and (4) no supplements (control-CON). The concentrations of total VFAs, acetate, and butyrate were greater (p < 0.05) when supplemented with concentrate feed (C and RPA+C) than without concentrate feed (CON and RPA). Bacteroidetes (B) and Firmicutes (F) were the dominant ruminal bacterial phyla in all groups. The ratio of relative abundance of F:B in RPA+C was greater than in the RPA group, while there was no difference between CON and RPC (interaction, p = 0.026). At the genus level, the relative abundances of Absconditabacteriales_SR1, Bacteroidales-RF16-group, Bacteroidales_BS11_gut_group, Prevotellaceae, and Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group were lesser (p < 0.05) with supplementary concentrate feed (C and RPA+C) than without concentrate feed (CON and RPA), whereas Butyrivibrio_2 and Pseudobutyrivibrio were greater (p < 0.05) with supplementary rumen-protected amino acids (RPA and RPA+C) than without rumen-protected amino acids (CON and C). These results demonstrate that supplementary feed: (1) alters the composition of rumen microbiota and concentrations of ruminal VFAs in lactating yaks; and (2) can be used to manipulate the composition of rumen microbiota.
A Novel Immunoassay for Malondialdehyde-Conjugated Low-Density Lipoprotein Measures Dynamic Changes in the Blood of Patients Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery
Authors: Pandey Samata S. , Hartley Adam , Caga-Anan Mikhail , Ammari Tareq , Khan Ameer Hamid Ahmed , Nguyen Bao Anh Vu , Kojima Chiari , Anderson Jon , Lynham Steven , Johns Michael , Haskard Dorian O. , Khamis Ramzi Y.
Published: August 2021

Oxidized low-density lipoproteins play an important role in tissue pathology. In this study, we report a sensitive novel enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for the detection of malondialdehyde-modified low-density lipoprotein (MDA-LDL), a key component of oxidized LDL. The assay is capable of measuring a variable presence of MDA-LDL within human plasma and serum. We demonstrate the robust nature of the assay on samples stored for over 20 months, as well as high inter-operator reproducibility (r = 0.74, p < 0.0001). The assay was capable of detecting dynamic changes in patient blood samples after coronary artery bypass graft surgery, indicating synthesis or release of MDA-LDL with the oxidative stress of surgery, followed by homeostatic clearance. This robust, sensitive and specific assay for circulating MDA-LDL will serve as a valuable translational tool for the improved detection of oxidative forms of LDL in response to a range of physiological or pathological stimuli, with potential clinical applicability.
Tumor-Induced Cardiac Dysfunction: A Potential Role of ROS
Authors: Karekar Priyanka , Jensen Haley N. , Russart Kathryn L. G. , Ponnalagu Devasena , Seeley Sarah , Sanghvi Shridhar , Smith Sakima A. , Pyter Leah M. , Singh Harpreet , Gururaja Rao Shubha
Published: August 2021

Cancer and heart diseases are the two leading causes of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Many cancer patients undergo heart-related complications resulting in high incidences of mortality. It is generally hypothesized that cardiac dysfunction in cancer patients occurs due to cardiotoxicity induced by therapeutic agents, used to treat cancers and/or cancer-induced cachexia. However, it is not known if localized tumors or unregulated cell growth systemically affect heart function before treatment, and/or prior to the onset of cachexia, hence, making the heart vulnerable to structural or functional abnormalities in later stages of the disease. We incorporated complementary mouse and Drosophila models to establish if tumor induction indeed causes cardiac defects even before intervention with chemotherapy or onset of cachexia. We focused on one of the key pathways involved in irregular cell growth, the Hippo–Yorkie (Yki), pathway. We used overexpression of the transcriptional co-activator of the Yki signaling pathway to induce cellular overgrowth, and show that Yki overexpression in the eye tissue of Drosophila results in compromised cardiac function. We rescue these cardiac phenotypes using antioxidant treatment, with which we conclude that the Yki induced tumorigenesis causes a systemic increase in ROS affecting cardiac function. Our results show that systemic cardiac dysfunction occurs due to abnormal cellular overgrowth or cancer elsewhere in the body; identification of specific cardiac defects associated with oncogenic pathways can facilitate the possible early diagnosis of cardiac dysfunction.
Water-Soluble Melanoidin Pigment as a New Antioxidant Component of Fermented Willowherb Leaves (Epilobium angustifolium)
Authors: Olennikov Daniil N. , Kirillina Christina S. , Chirikova Nadezhda K.
Published: August 2021

Willowherb (Epilobium angustifolium L., family Onagraceae) is a well-known food and medicinal plant used after fermentation as a source of beverages with high antioxidant potential. Despite this long history of use, only a few papers have described the chemical profile and bioactivity of fermented willowherb tea in general. To understand the basic metabolic differences of non-fermented and fermented E. angustifolium leaves, we used general chemical analysis, high-performance liquid chromatography with photodiode array detection and electrospray ionization triple quadrupole mass spectrometric detection assay, and an isolation technique. As a result, the content of 14 chemical groups of compounds was compared in the two plant materials; 59 compounds were detected, including 36 new metabolites; and a new water-soluble phenolic polymer of melanoidin nature was isolated and characterized. The fundamental chemical shifts in fermented E. angustifolium leaves relate mainly to the decrease of ellagitannin content, while there is an increase of melanoidin percentage and saving of the antioxidant potential, despite the significant changes detected. The strong antioxidative properties of the new melanoidin were revealed in a series of in vitro bioassays, and a simulated gastrointestinal and colonic digestion model demonstrated the stability of melanoidin and its antioxidant activity. Finally, we concluded that the new melanoidin is a basic antioxidant of the fermented leaves of E. angustifolium, and it can be recommended for additional study as a promising food and medicinal antioxidant agent.
Acyl Quinic Acid Derivatives Screened Out from Carissa spinarum by SOD-Affinity Ultrafiltration LC–MS and Their Antioxidative and Hepatoprotective Activities
Authors: Liu Ye , Muema Felix Wambua , Zhang Yong-Li , Guo Ming-Quan
Published: August 2021

Carissa spinarum Linn. has been utilized both in the food industry and as a traditional medicine for various ailments, while the responsible chemical components and action mechanisms of its antioxidative and hepatoprotective activities remain unclear. In this work, at least 17 quinic acid derivatives as potential ligands for the superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzyme from Carissa spinarum L. were screened out using the bio-affinity ultrafiltration with liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (UF–LC/MS), and 12 of them (1–12), including, three new ones (1–3), were further isolated by phytochemical methods and identified by high resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HR-ESI-MS) and extensive nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopic analysis. All of these isolated compounds were evaluated for their antioxidant activities by the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) methods. As a result, compounds 4 and 6–11 displayed similar or better antioxidant activities compared to vitamin C, which is in good agreement with the bio-affinity ultrafiltration with SOD enzyme. Then, these compounds, 4 and 6–11, with better antioxidant activity were further explored to protect the L02 cells from H2O2-induced oxidative injury by reducing the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Malondialdehyde (MDA) production and activating the SOD enzyme. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report to use an efficient ultrafiltration approach with SOD for the rapid screening and identification of the SOD ligands directly from a complex crude extract of Carissa spinarum, and to reveal its corresponding active compounds with good antioxidative and hepatoprotective activities.
Effects of Antioxidant in Adjunct with Periodontal Therapy in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Mizutani Koji , Buranasin Prima , Mikami Risako , Takeda Kohei , Kido Daisuke , Watanabe Kazuki , Takemura Shu , Nakagawa Keita , Kominato Hiromi , Saito Natsumi , Hattori Atsuhiko , Iwata Takanori
Published: August 2021

This review investigated whether the adjunctive use of antioxidants with periodontal therapy improves periodontal parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes. A systematic and extensive literature search for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) conducted before April 2021 was performed on the PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. A meta-analysis was performed to quantitatively evaluate the clinical outcomes following periodontal therapy. After independent screening of 137 initial records, nine records from eight RCTs were included. The risk-of-bias assessment revealed that all RCTs had methodological weaknesses regarding selective bias, although other risk factors for bias were not evident. This meta-analysis of two RCTs showed that periodontal pocket depths were significantly reduced in the groups treated with combined non-surgical periodontal therapy and melatonin than in those treated with non-surgical periodontal therapy alone. The present systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that the adjunctive use of melatonin, resveratrol, omega-3 fatty acids with cranberry juice, propolis, and aloe vera gel with periodontal therapy significantly improves periodontal disease parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes, and melatonin application combined with non-surgical periodontal therapy might significantly reduce periodontal pocket depth. However, there are still limited studies of melatonin in combination with non-surgical periodontal therapy in Type 2 diabetic patients, and more well-designed RCTs are required to be further investigated.
Study on Bidirectional Blasting Technology for Composite Sandstone Roof in Gob-Side Entry-Retaining Mining Method
Authors: Gao Hainan , Gao Yubing , Wang Jiong , Fu Qiang , Qiao Bowen , Wei Xingjian , Zhang Xingyu
Published: August 2021

The traditional gob-side entry-retaining mining method has problems such as difficulty in roof collapse and large deformation of the entry, which may affect the safety of mine production. In this study, we introduced a bidirectional blasting technology (BBT) to make the roof collapse smoothly and to improve the traditional gob-side entry-retaining mining method. A theoretical model of the BBT was established and the stress propagation of the BBT was analyzed by numerical simulation. The gob-side entry-retaining mining method was then applied in a composite sandstone roof condition. Compared with ordinary blasting, the concentrated stress and directional cracks can be generated in the set direction after using the BBT technology. Field monitoring data suggested that the deformation of the retained entry met the requirements of mining, verifying the effectiveness of the proposed technology for composite sandstone roof. The results of the study have an important significance in solving the high pressure and large deformation problems in the coal mine roadway and saving coal resources, which also provided a reference for similar geotechnical mines.
Exploring Simulation-Based Virtual Reality as a Mock-Up Tool to Support the Design of First Responders Training
Authors: Pratticò Filippo Gabriele , De Lorenzis Federico , Calandra Davide , Cannavò Alberto , Lamberti Fabrizio
Published: August 2021

Intervention by First Responders (FRs) is essential in disaster response, and their preparation greatly benefits from continuous updates. However, the design of effective training experiences targeted to FRs can be very demanding from the viewpoint of a Training Provisioner (TP). Virtual Reality (VR) may have a key role to play in enhancing and facilitating this task. In fact, VR technology has already proven to be very helpful in the field of emergency training, as well as its use as a powerful design and mock-up tool in many other contexts. In this work, the application of VR as a mock-up tool supporting TPs in the arrangement and validation of a training experience, either real or virtual, is explored. In particular, a case study is considered concerning the training of an FR for hydro-geological risks. Within this context, the proposed approach is compared against dramaturgy prototyping, a method commonly used for the design of experiential courses. Results indicate that the adoption of a VR-based mock-up tool (VRMT) can provide TPs with good insights on the arrangement of the training and precious indications on how to actually map this information onto real-world exercises.
Study on Active Tracking of Underwater Acoustic Target Based on Deep Convolution Neural Network
Authors: Wang Maofa , Qiu Baochun , Zhu Zeifei , Xue Huanhuan , Zhou Chuanping
Published: August 2021

The active tracking technology of underwater acoustic targets is an important research direction in the field of underwater acoustic signal processing and sonar, and it has always been issued that draws researchers’ attention. The commonly used Kalman filter active tracking (KFAT) method is an effective tracking method, however, it is difficult to detect weak SNR signals, and it is easy to lose the target after the azimuth of different targets overlaps. This paper proposes a KFAT based on deep convolutional neural network (DCNN) method, which can effectively solve the problem of target loss. First, we use Kalman filtering to predict the azimuth and distance of the target, and then use the trained model to identify the azimuth-weighted time-frequency image to obtain the azimuth and label of the target and obtain the target distance by the time the target appears in the time-frequency image. Finally, we associate the data according to the target category, and update the target azimuth and distance information for this cycle. In this paper, two methods, KFAT and DCNN-KFAT, are simulated and tested, and the results are obtained for two cases of tracking weak signal-to-noise signals and tracking different targets with overlapping azimuths. The simulation results show that the DCNN-KFAT method can solve the problem that the KFAT method is difficult to track the target under the weak SNR and the problem that the target is easily lost when two different targets overlap in azimuth. It reduces the deviation range of the active tracking to within 200 m, which is 500~700 m less than the KFAT method.
Elemental Carbon and Its Fractions during Evolved Gas Analysis with Respect to Pyrolytic Carbon and Split Time
Authors: Lee Juhan , Kim Dohyun , Lee Jeonghoon
Published: August 2021

We demonstrated the relationships between elemental carbon (EC) and EC fractions during evolved gas analysis (EGA) for PM2.5 sampled at KOREATECH from 29 March 2018 to 12 May 2018. The EC concentrations were compared to the concentrations of equivalent black carbon to confirm that the level of EC concentrations analyzed in this study was valid. Among various EC fractions and their combination, EC1+EC3 fractions were best correlated with the EC concentrations. Especially, dominant EC fraction was related with the dependence of carbon oxidation quantity on the oxidation temperature. We also examined the relationships between pyrolytic carbon (PyC) and EC concentration with respect to the split time. PyC was correlated with the split time in the phase of oxygen-helium mixture. PyC was close to zero for the split time in the helium phase. It is novel, as far as the authors know, that the correlation between PyC and the split time under NIOSH 5040 protocol was reported with regard to EGA. We believe that our study helps to identify what causes uncertainty in the quantification of PyC.
Visioning the Future of Smart Fashion Factories Based on Media Big Data Analysis
Authors: Lee Sae-Eun , Ju Naan , Lee Kyu-Hye
Published: August 2021

Recently, many companies have adopted smart factories to increase productivity and efficiency. However, the fashion industry is one of the industries that have been relatively slow at embracing automation and switching to a smart factory. The purpose of the study is to suggest the future direction of the low-maturity smart factory in the fashion industry through newspaper analysis. In this study, semantic network analysis and convergence of iterated correlation (CONCOR) analysis were performed on 15,523 news articles. The analyses revealed that the smart fashion factory was developing to incorporate automated, unmanned, and intelligent operation. The problem of job loss owing to the smart factory was also heavily addressed in the news articles. In the newspaper articles, the view that the smart factory is efficient, fast, and innovative, and concerns regarding the possible damages that will result from hacking and machine malfunction were simultaneously expressed. Therefore, if news about security improvement emerges in the future, negative public opinion will be reduced, positively influencing the government’s support for smart factories and policy making.
VR as a 3D Modelling Tool in Engineering Design Applications
Authors: Vlah Daria , Čok Vanja , Urbas Uroš
Published: August 2021

The study aims to explore the usefulness of existing VR 3D modelling tools for use in mechanical engineering. Previous studies have investigated the use of VR 3D modelling tools in conceptual phases of the product development process. Our objective was to find out if VR tools are useful in creating advanced freeform CAD models that are part of the embodiment design phase in the context of mechanical design science. Two studies were conducted. In the preliminary study, the group of participants modelled a 3D part in a standard desktop CAD application, which provided information about the key characteristics that must be satisfied to obtain a solid model from a surface model. In the research study conducted with a focus group of participants, who were firstly trained in the use of VR, the same part was modelled using a VR headset. The results were analysed and the fulfilment of key characteristics in the use of VR was evaluated. It was found that using VR tools provides a fast way to create complex part geometries, however, it has certain drawbacks. Finally, the ease of use and specific features of the VR technology were discussed.
Effect of Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Stimulation on the Growth Plate of the Tibia Bone of Rats: An In Vivo Study
Authors: Sung Yoon-Young , Shin Jae-Woo , Yang Won-Kyung , Kim Min-Jin , Koo Ja-Ik , Noh Eun-Mi , Min Kyoung-Soo , Yun Mi-Young , Kim Seung-Hyung
Published: August 2021

Currently, many children undergo precocious puberty, resulting in short stature due to premature closure of the growth plate. Pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) stimulation induces cell proliferation of articular chondrocytes. We developed a method for growth promotion using equipment with PEMF. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of PEMF on the growth rate of growth plates using an animal model. An experimental study was conducted on 16 3-week-old rats to validate the effects of the growth care device on growth and development by PEMF stimulation at 28 Hz and 20 Gauss. The tibia bones of the groups with and without PEMF administration were dissected after 10 days, and then, the length of the growth plate of the knee and levels of insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 hormone in serum were measured. The length of the growth plate on the tibia bone and the levels of circulating IGF-1 were significantly increased by 25.6% and 13.6%, respectively, in the experimental group to which PEMF was applied compared to those of the control group, without any side effects. These results suggest that PEMF can safely stimulate growth of the growth plate in a non-invasive manner to promote bone growth.
Modulated Noncollinear Optical Parametric Amplifier Output Induced by Stimulated Raman Scattering
Authors: Kobayashi Takayoshi , Wang Zhuan , Liu Jun
Published: August 2021

We studied spectra of the amplified signal from a noncollinear optical parametric amplifier (NOPA) based on a Ti:sapphire laser and BBO crystal gain medium. The signal shows characteristic structures with periodic intensity variations in the signal during the parametric amplification processes in a BBO crystal. This phenomenon is attributed to the stimulated Raman process excited by the pump pulse affected by the phase-matching condition of four-wave mixing. The effect of this stimulated Raman process on optical parametric amplification and on final pulse compression of the signal was analyzed. The results demonstrate that caution must be taken when constructing a NOPA. Specifically, great care must be taken not to use mirrors with non-uniform spectral reflectivity for obtaining a stable pulse in terms of both temporal and spectral shapes.
Development and Validation of a Method for the Semi-Quantitative Determination of N-Nitrosamines in Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient Enalapril Maleate by Means of Derivatisation and Detection by HPLC with Fluorimetric Detector
Authors: Boczar Dariusz , Wyszomirska Elżbieta , Zabrzewska Beata , Chyła Anna , Michalska Katarzyna
Published: August 2021

A novel HPLC method with fluorimetric detection was developed for the determination of potentially carcinogenic N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) and N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA) in active pharmaceutical ingredient enalapril maleate. N-nitrosamines were subject to denitrosation followed by derivatisation with dansyl chloride or fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl chloride (Fmoc-Cl). Fmoc-Cl offers much better sensitivity and repeatability than dansyl chloride derivatisation. A satisfactory linearity was obtained for the method, with R2 = 0.9994 for NDMA and 0.9990 for NDEA, and a limit of quantification level of 0.038 μg/g for NDMA and 0.050 μg/g for NDEA. The precision decreased with the concentration to a maximum level of about 10%. The recoveries were in the range of 74.2 ± 4.2% to 101.6 ± 16.1% for NDMA and 90.6 ± 2.9% to 125.4 ± 7.4% for NDEA. Dansyl chloride was found to be an inappropriate derivatisation agent, mainly due to potential contamination with dimethylamine, leading to unrepeatable peaks in the blank solution. Since the method involves the derivatisation of amines liberated from the N-nitrosamines, it was necessary to remove the amines from the test sample. Several critical points in the standard/sample preparation have been mentioned, which affect the reproducibility of the method and are not covered in similar articles.
Multivariate Analysis Applied to Aquifer Hydrogeochemical Evaluation: A Case Study in the Coastal Significant Subterranean Water Body between “Cecina River and San Vincenzo”, Tuscany (Italy)
Authors: Bastianoni Alessia , Guastaldi Enrico , Barbagli Alessio , Bernardinetti Stefano , Zirulia Andrea , Brancale Mariantonietta , Colonna Tommaso
Published: August 2021

The hydrogeochemical characteristics of the significant subterranean water body between “Cecina River and San Vincenzo” (Italy) was evaluated using multivariate statistical analysis methods, like principal component analysis and self-organizing maps (SOMs), with the objective to study the spatiotemporal relationships of the aquifer. The dataset used consisted of the chemical composition of groundwater samples collected between 2010 and 2018 at 16 wells distributed across the whole aquifer. For these wells, all major ions were determined. A self-organizing map of 4 × 8 was constructed to evaluate spatiotemporal changes in the water body. After SOM clustering, we obtained three clusters that successfully grouped all data with similar chemical characteristics. These clusters can be viewed to reflect the presence of three water types: (i) Cluster 1: low salinity/mixed waters; (ii) Cluster 2: high salinity waters; and (iii) Cluster 3: low salinity/fresh waters. Results showed that the major ions had the greater influence over the groundwater chemistry, and the difference in their concentrations allowed the definition of three clusters among the obtained SOM. Temporal changes in cluster assignment were only observed in two wells, located in areas more susceptible to changes in the water table levels, and therefore, hydrodynamic conditions. The result of the SOM clustering was also displayed using the classical hydrochemical approach of the Piper plot. It was observed that these changes were not as easily identified when the raw data were used. The spatial display of the clustering results, allowed the evaluation in a hydrogeological context in a quick and cost-effective way. Thus, our approach can be used to quickly analyze large datasets, suggest recharge areas, and recognize spatiotemporal patterns.
A Comparative Modeling Study of Supertyphoons Mangkhut and Yutu (2018) Past the Philippines with Ocean-Coupled HWRF
Authors: Nguyen Thi-Chinh , Huang Ching-Yuang
Published: August 2021

The ocean-coupled Hurricane Weather Research and Forecasting (HWRF) system was used to investigate the evolution of Supertyphoons Mangkhut and Yutu (2018) over the Philippines Sea and near landfall in the northern Philippines. The simulation results indicate that Mangkhut at a deepening stage has a smaller track sensitivity to the use of different physics schemes but greater intensity sensitivity, which becomes reversed for Yutu at a weakening stage. When both upstream tracks are well simulated with some specific suite of physics schemes, sensitivity experiments indicate that both track deviations near the northern Philippines are only weakly modified by the air–sea interaction (ocean-coupled or uncoupled processes), the topographic effects of the Philippines terrain (retained or not), and the initial ocean temperature change along both typhoon tracks. The interactions between the internal typhoon vortex and the large-scale flow play an important role in the overall movement of both typhoons, which were explored for their structural and convective evolutions near the terrain. The wavenumber-one potential vorticity (PV) tendency budget of the typhoon vortex was analyzed to explain the induced typhoon translation from different physical processes. The west-northwestward translation for the stronger Mangkhut near the northern Philippines is primarily induced by both horizontal and vertical PV advection but with the latter further enhanced to dominate the northward deflection when closing in to the terrain. However, the northwestward translation and track deflection near landfall for the weaker Yutu are driven by the dominant horizontal PV advection. Differential diabatic heating is relatively less important for affecting the movement of both typhoons near landfall.
The Effects of Air Quality on Hospital Admissions for Chronic Respiratory Diseases in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia, 2013–2015
Authors: Morrissey Karyn , Chung Ivy , Morse Andrew , Parthasarath Suhanya , Roebuck Margaret , Tan Maw , Wood Amanda , Wong Pooi-Fong , Frostick Simon
Published: August 2021

This study assesses the impact of a decrease in air quality and the risk of hospital admissions to a public hospital for chronic respiratory diseases for residents of Petaling Jaya, a city in the Greater Kuala Lumpur area in Malaysia. Data on hospital admissions for asthma, bronchitis, emphysema and other chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, weather conditions and the Malaysian Air Pollution Index, a composite indicator of air quality, were collated. An unconstrained distributed lag model to obtain risk of hospitalization for a 10 μg/m3 increase in the API. The lag cumulative effect for a 10 μg/m3 increase in the API was calculated to test for harvesting in the short term. Findings indicate that after an initial decrease in admissions (days 3 and 4), admissions increased again at day 7 and 8 and this relationship was significant. We therefore conclude that a 10 μg/m3 increase has a greater effect on admissions for respiratory health in the short term than a harvesting effect alone would suggest. These results suggest that while air quality is improving in the Greater Kuala Lumpur area, no level of air pollution can be deemed safe.
Photodegradation of Biohazardous Dye Brilliant Blue R Using Organometallic Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized through a Green Chemistry Method
Authors: Sidorowicz Agnieszka , Szymański Tomasz , Rybka Jakub Dalibor
Published: August 2021

Nowadays, nanostructures having tremendous chemical and physical properties are gaining attention in the biomedical industry. However, when they are prepared through classical methods (physical and chemical), they are often non-biocompatible and toxic. Considering the mentioned factors, in this research, organometallic silver nanostructures (OMAgNs) have been prepared by the green chemistry method using the acetone, methanol, and methanol-hexane-based extracts of the medicinally important plant Cichorium intybus. Secondary metabolites from C. intybus can be used as an alternative to synthetic reagents at an industrial scale to manufacture biosafe and economical nanostructures with enhanced physicochemical parameters. Prepared nanostructures were characterized using SEM, XRD, FTIR, TGA, UV, and zeta potential measurement. SEM analysis revealed different shapes of OMAgNs, prepared with various extracts. XRD analysis showed the crystallinity of the nanostructures. FTIR spectroscopy helped to identify groups of compounds present in the extracts and used for the OMAgNs synthesis. Out of the three tested OMAgNs, those prepared with methanol extract were selected due to the highest obtained yield and stability (highest negative zeta potential) and were tested as a cost-efficient and active agent to photodegrade organic pollutant, Brilliant Blue R, using energy from sunlight. A decrease in UV-VIS absorbance confirmed the rapid degradation of the dye.
The Distribution and Prevalence of High-Risk HPV Genotypes Other than HPV-16 and HPV-18 among Women Attending Gynecologists’ Offices in Kazakhstan
Authors: Aimagambetova Gulzhanat , Babi Aisha , Issanov Alpamys , Akhanova Sholpan , Udalova Natalya , Koktova Svetlana , Balykov Askhat , Sattarkyzy Zhanna , Abakasheva Zhuldyz , Azizan Azliyati , Chan Chee Kai , Issa Torgyn
Published: August 2021

Cervical cancer represents a great burden to public health of women. This study aimed to obtain a nationwide genotyping survey and analysis of high risk-HPV including those that are caused by HPV types other than HPV-16 and HPV-18, among women in Kazakhstan. This study was conducted based on the collection of survey and cervical swabs of 1645 women across the country. The samples were genotyped for high-risk HPV types based on real-time PCR methods. Collected data was analyzed with the focus on high-risk HPV types other than HPV-16 and -18. Infection was present in 22% of women who participated in the study. The most prevalent types were HPV-31 among single infections and HPV-68 among multiple infections. Conclusively, despite the lack of attention high-risk HPV types beyond HPV-16 and -18 get in attempts of cervical cancer prevention in Kazakhstan, their prevalence is high and plays a large role in cervical cancer epidemiological situation.
Engineering of Thermal Stability in a Cold-Active Oligo-1,6-Glucosidase from Exiguobacterium sibiricum with Unusual Amino Acid Content
Authors: Berlina Yana Y. , Petrovskaya Lada E. , Kryukova Elena A. , Shingarova Lyudmila N. , Gapizov Sultan Sh. , Kryukova Mariya V. , Rivkina Elizaveta M. , Kirpichnikov Mikhail P. , Dolgikh Dmitry A.
Published: August 2021

A gene coding for a novel putative amylase, oligo-1,6-glucosidase from a psychrotrophic bacterium Exiguobacterium sibiricum from Siberian permafrost soil was cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli. The amino acid sequence of the predicted protein EsOgl and its 3D model displayed several features characteristic for the cold-active enzymes while possessing an unusually high number of proline residues in the loops—a typical feature of thermophilic enzymes. The activity of the purified recombinant protein was tested with p-nitrophenyl α-D-glucopyranoside as a substrate. The enzyme displayed a plateau-shaped temperature-activity profile with the optimum at 25 °C and a pronounced activity at low temperatures (50% of maximum activity at 5 °C). To improve the thermal stability at temperatures above 40 °C, we have introduced proline residues into four positions of EsOgl by site-directed mutagenesis according to “the proline rule”. Two of the mutants, S130P and A109P demonstrated a three- and two-fold increased half-life at 45 °C. Moreover, S130P mutation led to a 60% increase in the catalytic rate constant. Combining the mutations resulted in a further increase in stability transforming the temperature-activity profile to a typical mesophilic pattern. In the most thermostable variant A109P/S130P/E176P, the half-life at 45 °C was increased from 11 min (wild-type) to 129 min.
Metformin and Cancer Glucose Metabolism: At the Bench or at the Bedside?
Authors: Marini Cecilia , Cossu Vanessa , Bauckneht Matteo , Lanfranchi Francesco , Raffa Stefano , Orengo Anna Maria , Ravera Silvia , Bruno Silvia , Sambuceti Gianmario
Published: August 2021

Several studies reported that metformin, the most widely used drug for type 2 diabetes, might affect cancer aggressiveness. The biguanide seems to directly impair cancer energy asset, with the consequent phosphorylation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) inhibiting cell proliferation and tumor growth. This action is most often attributed to a well-documented blockage of oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) caused by a direct interference of metformin on Complex I function. Nevertheless, several other pleiotropic actions seem to contribute to the anticancer potential of this biguanide. In particular, in vitro and in vivo experimental studies recently documented that metformin selectively inhibits the uptake of 2-[18F]-Fluoro-2-Deoxy-D-Glucose (FDG), via an impaired catalytic function of the enzyme hexose-6P-dehydrogenase (H6PD). H6PD triggers a still largely uncharacterized pentose-phosphate pathway (PPP) within the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) that has been found to play a pivotal role in feeding the NADPH reductive power for both cellular proliferation and antioxidant responses. Regardless of its exploitability in the clinical setting, this metformin action might configure the ER metabolism as a potential target for innovative therapeutic strategies in patients with solid cancers and potentially modifies the current interpretative model of FDG uptake, attributing PET/CT capability to predict cancer aggressiveness to the activation of H6PD catalytic function.
Immunologic Roles of Hyaluronan in Dermal Wound Healing
Authors: Kaul Aditya , Short Walker D. , Keswani Sundeep G. , Wang Xinyi
Published: August 2021

Hyaluronic acid (HA), a glycosaminoglycan ubiquitous in the skin, has come into the limelight in recent years for its role in facilitating dermal wound healing. Specifically, HA’s length of linearly repeating disaccharides—in other words, its molecular weight (MW)—determines its effects. High molecular weight (HMW)-HA serves an immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory role, whereas low molecular weight (LMW)-HA contributes to immunostimulation and thus inflammation. During the inflammatory stage of tissue repair, direct and indirect interactions between HA and the innate and adaptive immune systems are of particular interest for their long-lasting impact on wound repair. This review seeks to synthesize the literature on wound healing with a focus on HA’s involvement in the immune subsystems.
Neuropathic and Psychogenic Components of Burning Mouth Syndrome: A Systematic Review
Authors: Orliaguet Marie , Misery Laurent
Published: August 2021

The pathophysiology of primary burning mouth syndrome (BMS) has been extensively debated but is poorly understood despite a large number of hypotheses attempting to explain its etiopathogenic mechanisms. The aim of the present work was to systematically review papers that could provide arguments in favour of the neuropathic and psychogenic components of primary BMS for a better understanding of the disease. This systematic review (SR) was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021224160). The search was limited to articles in English or French from 1990 to 01 December 2020. A total of 113 articles were considered for data extraction. We divided them into four subgroups: pharmacological and nonpharmacological management studies (n = 23); neurophysiological studies (n = 35); biohistopathological studies (n = 25); and questionnaire-based studies (n = 30). Several of these studies have shown neuropathic involvement at various levels of the neuraxis in BMS with the contribution of quantitative sensory testing (QST), functional brain imaging, and biohistopathological or pharmacologic studies. On the other hand, the role of psychological factors in BMS has also been the focus of several studies and has shown a link with psychiatric disorders such as anxiety and/or depression symptoms. Depending on the patient, the neuropathic and psychogenic components may exist simultaneously, with a preponderance of one or the other, or exist individually. These two components cannot be dissociated to define BMS. Consequently, BMS may be considered nociplastic pain.
In Vitro Nephrotoxicity Studies of Established and Experimental Platinum-Based Compounds
Authors: Schoch Sarah , Sen Vasily , Brenner Walburgis , Hartwig Andrea , Köberle Beate
Published: August 2021

Cisplatin is one of the most commonly used drugs for the treatment of various solid cancers. However, its efficacy is restricted by severe side effects, especially dose-limiting nephrotoxicity. New platinum-based compounds are designed to overcome this limitation. Previous investigations showed that the platinum(IV)–nitroxyl complex PN149 is highly cytotoxic in various tumor cell lines. In the present study, investigations with PN149 were extended to normal human kidney tubule epithelia. Coincident with higher intracellular platinum accumulation, the cytotoxicity of PN149 in the proximal tubule epithelial cell line ciPTEC was more pronounced compared to the established platinum chemotherapeutics cisplatin, carboplatin and oxaliplatin. Quantitative gene expression profiling revealed the induction of ROS-inducible and anti-oxidative genes, suggesting an oxidative stress response by PN149. However, in contrast to cisplatin, no pro-inflammatory response was observed. Genes coding for distinct DNA damage response factors and genes related to apoptosis were up-regulated, indicating the activation of the DNA damage response system and induction of the apoptotic cascade by PN149. Altogether, a comparable transcriptional response was observed for PN149 and the platinum chemotherapeutics. However, the lack of inflammatory activity, which is a possible cause contributing to toxicity in human renal proximal tubule epithelia, might indicate the reduced nephrotoxic potential of PN149.
The State of Art on Co-Morbid Insomnia and Sleep Apnea (COMISA)
Authors: De Gennaro Luigi
Published: August 2021

Insomnia and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are two prevalent sleep disorders which share nocturnal sleep disturbances, impairments to daytime activity and quality of life, and high healthcare and social costs [...]
Functional Cognitive Disorders (FCD): How Is Metacognition Involved?
Authors: Larner Andrew J.
Published: August 2021

Functional cognitive disorders (FCD) have become a subject of increasing clinical interest in recent years, in part because of their high prevalence amongst patients attending dedicated memory clinics. Empirical understanding of FCD based on observational studies is growing, suggesting a relationship to other functional neurological disorders (FND) based on shared phenomenology. However, understanding of FCD at the theoretical level has been lacking. One suggestion has been that FCD are disorders of metacognition, most usually of metamemory. In this article, a brief overview of these constructs is presented along with existing evidence for their impairment in FCD. Previous adaptations of theoretical models of FND to accommodate FCD are reviewed. A novel application to FCD of Nelson and Narens’ monitoring and control model of metamemory is then attempted, positing an improper setting of the monitoring function, with examples of ecological relevance. Formulation of FCD in light of a metacognitive model of anosognosia is also considered. Although lacking mechanistic and neuroanatomical sophistication, this metacognitive formulation of FCD may give pointers for future hypothesis-driven research and a pragmatic basis for management strategies.
Pituitary Imaging Abnormalities and Related Endocrine Disorders in Erdheim–Chester Disease
Authors: Shekhar Skand , Irizarry-Caro Jorge A. , Sinaii Ninet , Gahl William A. , Estrada-Veras Juvianee I. , Dave Rahul H. , Gochuico Bernadette R. , Papadakis Georgios Z. , Patronas Nicholas , Stratakis Constantine A. , O’Brien Kevin , Hannah-Shmouni Fady
Published: August 2021

Purpose: We examined abnormal pituitary imaging (API) and associated endocrine dysfunction in subjects with ECD. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive examination of a natural history cohort study diagnosed with ECD was conducted at a clinical research center. Subjects underwent baseline endocrine tests of anterior and posterior pituitary function and dedicated pituitary gland MRI scans. We determined the frequency of various pituitary imaging abnormalities in ECD and assessed its relationships with age, sex, body mass index (BMI), BRAF V600E status, high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), pituitary hormone deficits and number, diabetes insipidus (DI), and panhypopituitarism. Results: Our cohort included 61 subjects with ECD [age (SD): 54.3 (10.9) y, 46 males/15 females]. API was present in 47.5% (29/61) of ECD subjects. Loss of the posterior pituitary bright spot (36.1%) followed by thickened pituitary stalk (24.6%), abnormal enhancement (18.0%), and pituitary atrophy (14.8%) were the most common abnormalities. DI and panhypopituitarism were more frequent in subjects with API without differences in age, sex distribution, hsCRP, ESR, and BRAF V600E status compared to normal pituitary imaging. Conclusions: We noted a high burden of API and endocrinopathies in ECD. API was highly associated with the presence of panhypopituitarism and DI. Therefore, a thorough assessment of hypothalamic–pituitary integrity should be considered in subjects with ECD.