bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Myeloperoxidase-Oxidized LDL Activates Human Aortic Endothelial Cells through the LOX-1 Scavenger Receptor
Authors: El-Hajjar Layal , Hindieh Judy , Andraos Rana , El-Sabban Marwan , Daher Jalil
Published: March 2022

Cardiovascular disease as a result of atherosclerosis is a leading cause of death worldwide. Atherosclerosis is primarily caused by the dysfunction of vascular endothelial cells and the subendothelial accumulation of oxidized forms of low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Early observations have linked oxidized LDL effects in atherogenesis to the lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX-1) scavenger receptor. It was shown that LOX-1 is upregulated by many inflammatory mediators and proatherogenic stimuli including cytokines, reactive oxygen species (ROS), hemodynamic blood flow, high blood sugar levels and, most importantly, modified forms of LDL. Oxidized LDL signaling pathways in atherosclerosis were first explored using LDL that is oxidized by copper (Cuox-LDL). In our study, we used a more physiologically relevant model of LDL oxidation and showed, for the first time, that myeloperoxidase oxidized LDL (Mox-LDL) may affect human aortic endothelial cell (HAEC) function through the LOX-1 scavenger receptor. We report that Mox-LDL increases the expression of its own LOX-1 receptor in HAECs, enhancing inflammation and simultaneously decreasing tubulogenesis in the cells. We hypothesize that Mox-LDL drives endothelial dysfunction (ED) through LOX-1 which provides an initial hint to the pathways that are initiated by Mox-LDL during ED and the progression of atherosclerosis.
Impacts, Tolerance, Adaptation, and Mitigation of Heat Stress on Wheat under Changing Climates
Authors: Yadav Malu Ram , Choudhary Mukesh , Singh Jogendra , Lal Milan Kumar , Jha Prakash Kumar , Udawat Pushpika , Gupta Narendra Kumar , Rajput Vishnu D. , Garg Nitin Kumar , Maheshwari Chirag , Hasan Muzaffar , Gupta Sunita , Jatwa Tarun Kumar , Kumar Rakesh , Yadav Arvind Kumar , Prasad P. V. Vara
Published: March 2022

Heat stress (HS) is one of the major abiotic stresses affecting the production and quality of wheat. Rising temperatures are particularly threatening to wheat production. A detailed overview of morpho-physio-biochemical responses of wheat to HS is critical to identify various tolerance mechanisms and their use in identifying strategies to safeguard wheat production under changing climates. The development of thermotolerant wheat cultivars using conventional or molecular breeding and transgenic approaches is promising. Over the last decade, different omics approaches have revolutionized the way plant breeders and biotechnologists investigate underlying stress tolerance mechanisms and cellular homeostasis. Therefore, developing genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics data sets and a deeper understanding of HS tolerance mechanisms of different wheat cultivars are needed. The most reliable method to improve plant resilience to HS must include agronomic management strategies, such as the adoption of climate-smart cultivation practices and use of osmoprotectants and cultured soil microbes. However, looking at the complex nature of HS, the adoption of a holistic approach integrating outcomes of breeding, physiological, agronomical, and biotechnological options is required. Our review aims to provide insights concerning morpho-physiological and molecular impacts, tolerance mechanisms, and adaptation strategies of HS in wheat. This review will help scientific communities in the identification, development, and promotion of thermotolerant wheat cultivars and management strategies to minimize negative impacts of HS.
Post-Transcriptional Regulation of Molecular Determinants during Cardiogenesis
Authors: Lozano-Velasco Estefania , Garcia-Padilla Carlos , del Mar Muñoz-Gallardo Maria , Martinez-Amaro Francisco Jose , Caño-Carrillo Sheila , Castillo-Casas Juan Manuel , Sanchez-Fernandez Cristina , Aranega Amelia E. , Franco Diego
Published: March 2022

Cardiovascular development is initiated soon after gastrulation as bilateral precardiac mesoderm is progressively symmetrically determined at both sides of the developing embryo. The precardiac mesoderm subsequently fused at the embryonic midline constituting an embryonic linear heart tube. As development progress, the embryonic heart displays the first sign of left-right asymmetric morphology by the invariably rightward looping of the initial heart tube and prospective embryonic ventricular and atrial chambers emerged. As cardiac development progresses, the atrial and ventricular chambers enlarged and distinct left and right compartments emerge as consequence of the formation of the interatrial and interventricular septa, respectively. The last steps of cardiac morphogenesis are represented by the completion of atrial and ventricular septation, resulting in the configuration of a double circuitry with distinct systemic and pulmonary chambers, each of them with distinct inlets and outlets connections. Over the last decade, our understanding of the contribution of multiple growth factor signaling cascades such as Tgf-beta, Bmp and Wnt signaling as well as of transcriptional regulators to cardiac morphogenesis have greatly enlarged. Recently, a novel layer of complexity has emerged with the discovery of non-coding RNAs, particularly microRNAs and lncRNAs. Herein, we provide a state-of-the-art review of the contribution of non-coding RNAs during cardiac development. microRNAs and lncRNAs have been reported to functional modulate all stages of cardiac morphogenesis, spanning from lateral plate mesoderm formation to outflow tract septation, by modulating major growth factor signaling pathways as well as those transcriptional regulators involved in cardiac development.
Molecular and Electronic Structures of Neutral Polynitrogens: Review on the Theory and Experiment in 21st Century
Authors: Mikhailov Oleg V.
Published: March 2022

The data on the existence and physicochemical characteristics of uncharged single element chemical compounds formed by nitrogen atoms and containing more than two nuclides of this element (from N4 to N120, oligomeric and polymeric polynitrogens) have been systematized and generalized. It has been noticed that these data have a predominantly predictive character and were obtained mainly using quantum chemical calculations of various levels (HF, DFT, MP, CCSD etc.). The possibility of the practical application of these single element compounds has been considered. The review mainly covers articles published in the last 25 years. The bibliography contains 128 references.
Recent Advances in Understanding Nrf2 Agonism and Its Potential Clinical Application to Metabolic and Inflammatory Diseases
Authors: Kim Min-Ji , Jeon Jae-Han
Published: March 2022

Oxidative stress is a major component of cell damage and cell fat, and as such, it occupies a central position in the pathogenesis of metabolic disease. Nuclear factor-erythroid-derived 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a key transcription factor that coordinates expression of genes encoding antioxidant and detoxifying enzymes, is regulated primarily by Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1). However, involvement of the Keap1–Nrf2 pathway in tissue and organism homeostasis goes far beyond protection from cellular stress. In this review, we focus on evidence for Nrf2 pathway dysfunction during development of several metabolic/inflammatory disorders, including diabetes and diabetic complications, obesity, inflammatory bowel disease, and autoimmune diseases. We also review the beneficial role of current molecular Nrf2 agonists and summarize their use in ongoing clinical trials. We conclude that Nrf2 is a promising target for regulation of numerous diseases associated with oxidative stress and inflammation. However, more studies are needed to explore the role of Nrf2 in the pathogenesis of metabolic/inflammatory diseases and to review safety implications before therapeutic use in clinical practice.
Stem Cell Therapy: From Idea to Clinical Practice
Authors: Mousaei Ghasroldasht Mohammad , Seok Jin , Park Hang-Soo , Liakath Ali Farzana Begum , Al-Hendy Ayman
Published: March 2022

Regenerative medicine is a new and promising mode of therapy for patients who have limited or no other options for the treatment of their illness. Due to their pleotropic therapeutic potential through the inhibition of inflammation or apoptosis, cell recruitment, stimulation of angiogenesis, and differentiation, stem cells present a novel and effective approach to several challenging human diseases. In recent years, encouraging findings in preclinical studies have paved the way for many clinical trials using stem cells for the treatment of various diseases. The translation of these new therapeutic products from the laboratory to the market is conducted under highly defined regulations and directives provided by competent regulatory authorities. This review seeks to familiarize the reader with the process of translation from an idea to clinical practice, in the context of stem cell products. We address some required guidelines for clinical trial approval, including regulations and directives presented by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the United States, as well as those of the European Medicine Agency (EMA). Moreover, we review, summarize, and discuss regenerative medicine clinical trial studies registered on the Clinicaltrials.gov website.
Impact of Musashi-1 and Musashi-2 Double Knockdown on Notch Signaling and the Pathogenesis of Endometriosis
Authors: Strauß Theresa , Greve Burkhard , Gabriel Michael , Achmad Nurjannah , Schwan Dhanusha , Espinoza-Sanchez Nancy Adriana , Laganà Antonio Simone , Kiesel Ludwig , Poutanen Matti , Götte Martin , Schäfer Sebastian Daniel
Published: March 2022

The stem cell marker and RNA-binding protein Musashi-1 is overexpressed in endometriosis. Musashi-1-siRNA knockdown in Ishikawa cells altered the expression of stem cell related genes, such as OCT-4. To investigate the role of both human Musashi homologues (MSI-1 and MSI-2) in the pathogenesis of endometriosis, immortalized endometriotic 12-Z cells and primary endometriotic stroma cells were treated with Musashi-1- and Musashi-2-siRNA. Subsequently, the impact on cell proliferation, cell apoptosis, cell necrosis, spheroid formation, stem cell phenotype and the Notch signaling pathway was studied in vitro. Using the ENDOMET Turku Endometriosis database, the gene expression of stem cell markers and Notch signaling pathway constituents were analyzed according to localization of the endometriosis lesions. The database analysis demonstrated that expression of Musashi and Notch pathway-related genes are dysregulated in patients with endometriosis. Musashi-1/2-double-knockdown increased apoptosis and necrosis and reduced stem cell gene expression, cell proliferation, and the formation of spheroids. Musashi silencing increased the expression of the anti-proliferation mediator p21. Our findings suggest the therapeutic potential of targeting the Musashi–Notch axis. We conclude that the Musashi genes have an impact on Notch signaling and the pathogenesis of endometriosis through the downregulation of proliferation, stemness characteristics and the upregulation of apoptosis, necrosis and of the cell cycle regulator p21.
Controlling the Spatiotemporal Release of Nerve Growth Factor by Chitosan/Polycaprolactone Conduits for Use in Peripheral Nerve Regeneration
Authors: Nawrotek Katarzyna , Kubicka Monika , Gatkowska Justyna , Wieczorek Marek , Michlewska Sylwia , Bekier Adrian , Wach Radosław , Rudnicka Karolina
Published: March 2022

Tubular polymeric structures have been recognized in the treatment of peripheral nerves as comparable to autologous grafting. The best therapeutic outcomes are obtained with conduits releasing therapeutic molecules. In this study, a new approach for the incorporation of biologically active agent-loaded microspheres into the structure of chitosan/polycaprolactone conduits was developed. The support of a polycaprolactone helix formed by 3D melt extrusion was coated with dopamine in order to adsorb nerve growth factor-loaded microspheres. The complex analysis of the influence of process factors on the coverage efficiency of polycaprolactone helix by nerve grow factor-loaded microspheres was analyzed. Thus, the PCL helix characterized with the highest adsorption of microspheres was subjected to nerve growth factor release studies, and finally incorporated into chitosan hydrogel deposit through the process of electrophoretic deposition. It was demonstrated by chemical and physical tests that the chitosan/polycaprolactone conduit meets the requirements imposed on peripheral nerve implants, particularly mimicking mechanical properties of surrounding soft tissue. Moreover, the conduit may support regrowing nerves for a prolonged period, as its structure and integrity persist upon incubation in lysozyme-contained PBS solution up to 28 days at body temperature. In vitro cytocompatibility toward mHippoE-18 embryonic hippocampal cells of the chitosan/polycaprolactone conduit was proven. Most importantly, the developed conduits stimulate axonal growth and support monocyte activation, the latter is advantageous especially at early stages of nerve regeneration. It was demonstrated that, through the described approach for controlling spatiotemporal release of nerve growth factors, these biocompatible structures adjusted to the specific peripheral nerve injury case can be manufactured.
Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Chrysin and Naringenin in a Drug-Induced Bone Loss Model in Rats
Authors: Oršolić Nada , Nemrava Johann , Jeleč Željko , Kukolj Marina , Odeh Dyana , Jakopović Boris , Jazvinšćak Jembrek Maja , Bagatin Tomica , Fureš Rajko , Bagatin Dinko
Published: March 2022

Oxidative stress (OS) mediators, together with the inflammatory processes, are considered as threatening factors for bone health. The aim of this study was to investigate effects of flavonoids naringenin and chrysin on OS, inflammation, and bone degradation in retinoic acid (13cRA)-induced secondary osteoporosis (OP) in rats. We analysed changes in body and uterine weight, biochemical bone parameters (bone mineral density (BMD), bone mineral content (BMC), markers of bone turnover), bone geometry parameters, bone histology, OS parameters, biochemical and haematological parameters, and levels of inflammatory cytokines. Osteoporotic rats had reduced bone Ca and P levels, BMD, BMC, and expression of markers of bone turnover, and increased values of serum enzymes alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Malondialdehyde (MDA) production in liver, kidney, and ovary was increased, while the glutathione (GSH) content and activities of antioxidant enzymes were reduced and accompanied with the enhanced release of inflammatory mediators TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and RANTES chemokine (regulated on activation normal T cell expressed and secreted) in serum. Treatment with chrysin or naringenin improved bone quality, reduced bone resorption, and bone mineral deposition, although with a lower efficacy compared with alendronate. However, flavonoids exhibited more pronounced antioxidative, anti-inflammatory and phytoestrogenic activities, indicating their great potential in attenuating bone loss and prevention of OP.
STAT3 Role in T-Cell Memory Formation
Authors: Kaminskiy Yaroslav , Melenhorst Jan Joseph
Published: March 2022

Along with the clinical success of immuno-oncology drugs and cellular therapies, T-cell biology has attracted considerable attention in the immunology community. Long-term immunity, traditionally analyzed in the context of infection, is increasingly studied in cancer. Many signaling pathways, transcription factors, and metabolic regulators have been shown to participate in the formation of memory T cells. There is increasing evidence that the signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 (STAT3) signaling pathway is crucial for the formation of long-term T-cell immunity capable of efficient recall responses. In this review, we summarize what is currently known about STAT3 role in the context of memory T-cell formation and antitumor immunity.
Hyperglycemia Promotes Endothelial Cell Senescence through AQR/PLAU Signaling Axis
Authors: Wan Yiqi , Liu Zhirui , Wu Andong , Khan Abdul Haseeb , Zhu Ying , Ding Shuangjin , Li Xueer , Zhao Ya , Dai Ximo , Zhou Jin , Liu Jiankun , Li Yuanyuan , Gong Xueting , Liu Man , Tian Xiao-Li
Published: March 2022

Hyperglycemia is reported to accelerate endothelial cell senescence that contributes to diabetic complications. The underlying mechanism, however, remains elusive. We previously demonstrated AQR as a susceptibility gene for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and showed that it was increased in multiple tissues in models with T2DM or metabolic syndrome. This study aimed to investigate the role of AQR in hyperglycemia-induced senescence and its underlying mechanism. Here, we retrieved several datasets of the aging models and found the expression of AQR was increased by high glucose and by aging across species, including C. elegans (whole-body), rat (cardiac tissues), and monkey (blood). we validated the increased AQR expression in senescent human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). When overexpressed, AQR promoted the endothelial cell senescence, confirmed by an increased number of cells stained with senescence-associated beta-galactosidase and upregulation of CDKN1A (P21) as well as the prohibited cellular colony formation and G2/M phase arrest. To explore the mechanism by which AQR regulated the cellular senescence, transcriptomic analyses of HUVECs with the overexpression and knockdown of the AQR were performed. We identified 52 co-expressed genes that were enriched, in the terms of plasminogen activation, innate immunity, immunity, and antiviral defense. Among co-expressed genes, PLAU was selected to evaluate its contribution to senescence for its highest strength in the enrichment of the biological process. We demonstrated that the knockdown of PLAU rescued senescence-related phenotypes, endothelial cell activation, and inflammation in models induced by AQR or TNF-α. These findings, for the first time, indicate that AQR/PLAU is a critical signaling axis in the modulation of endothelial cell senescence, revealing a novel link between hyperglycemia and vascular dysfunction. The study may have implications in the prevention of premature vascular aging associated with T2DM.
Chromosome Segregation in the Oocyte: What Goes Wrong during Aging
Authors: Wasielak-Politowska Marta , Kordowitzki Paweł
Published: March 2022

Human female fertility and reproductive lifespan decrease significantly with age, resulting in an extended post-reproductive period. The central dogma in human female reproduction contains two important aspects. One is the pool of oocytes in the human ovary (the ovarian reserve; approximately 106 at birth), which diminishes throughout life until menopause around the age of 50 (approximately 103 oocytes) in women. The second is the quality of oocytes, including the correctness of meiotic divisions, among other factors. Notably, the increased rate of sub- and infertility, aneuploidy, miscarriages, and birth defects are associated with advanced maternal age, especially in women above 35 years of age. This postponement is also relevant for human evolution; decades ago, the female aging-related fertility drop was not as important as it is today because women were having their children at a younger age. Spindle assembly is crucial for chromosome segregation during each cell division and oocyte maturation, making it an important event for euploidy. Consequently, aberrations in this segregation process, especially during the first meiotic division in human eggs, can lead to implantation failure or spontaneous abortion. Today, human reproductive medicine is also facing a high prevalence of aneuploidy, even in young females. However, the shift in the reproductive phase of humans and the strong increase in errors make the problem much more dramatic at later stages of the female reproductive phase. Aneuploidy in human eggs could be the result of the non-disjunction of entire chromosomes or sister chromatids during oocyte meiosis, but partial or segmental aneuploidies are also relevant. In this review, we intend to describe the relevance of the spindle apparatus during oocyte maturation for proper chromosome segregation in the context of maternal aging and the female reproductive lifespan.
Recent Developments in NAFLD
Authors: Mantovani Alessandro , Dalbeni Andrea
Published: March 2022

The aim of our Special Edition, entitled “Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease/Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease: New Insights”, is to point out recent developments in the area of NAFLD pathogenesis and treatment [...]
Brain Mechanisms of Exercise-Induced Hypoalgesia: To Find a Way Out from “Fear-Avoidance Belief”
Authors: Kami Katsuya , Tajima Fumihiro , Senba Emiko
Published: March 2022

It is well known that exercise produces analgesic effects (exercise-induced hypoalgesia (EIH)) in animal models and chronic pain patients, but the brain mechanisms underlying these EIH effects, especially concerning the emotional aspects of pain, are not yet fully understood. In this review, we describe drastic changes in the mesocorticolimbic system of the brain which permit the induction of EIH effects. The amygdala (Amyg) is a critical node for the regulation of emotions, such as fear and anxiety, which are closely associated with chronic pain. In our recent studies using neuropathic pain (NPP) model mice, we extensively examined the association between the Amyg and EIH effects. We found that voluntary exercise (VE) activated glutamate (Glu) neurons in the medial basal Amyg projecting to the nucleus accumbens (NAc) lateral shell, while it almost completely suppressed NPP-induced activation of GABA neurons in the central nucleus of the Amyg (CeA). Furthermore, VE significantly inhibited activation of pyramidal neurons in the ventral hippocampus-CA1 region, which play important roles in contextual fear conditioning and the retrieval of fear memory. This review describes novel information concerning the brain mechanisms underlying EIH effects as a result of overcoming the fear-avoidance belief of chronic pain.
Does Bisphenol A Confer Risk of Neurodevelopmental Disorders? What We Have Learned from Developmental Neurotoxicity Studies in Animal Models
Authors: Welch Chloe , Mulligan Kimberly
Published: March 2022

Substantial evidence indicates that bisphenol A (BPA), a ubiquitous environmental chemical used in the synthesis of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins, can impair brain development. Clinical and epidemiological studies exploring potential connections between BPA and neurodevelopmental disorders in humans have repeatedly identified correlations between early BPA exposure and developmental disorders, such as attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorder. Investigations using invertebrate and vertebrate animal models have revealed that developmental exposure to BPA can impair multiple aspects of neuronal development, including neural stem cell proliferation and differentiation, synapse formation, and synaptic plasticity—neuronal phenotypes that are thought to underpin the fundamental changes in behavior-associated neurodevelopmental disorders. Consistent with neuronal phenotypes caused by BPA, behavioral analyses of BPA-treated animals have shown significant impacts on behavioral endophenotypes related to neurodevelopmental disorders, including altered locomotor activity, learning and memory deficits, and anxiety-like behavior. To contextualize the correlations between BPA and neurodevelopmental disorders in humans, this review summarizes the current literature on the developmental neurotoxicity of BPA in laboratory animals with an emphasis on neuronal phenotypes, molecular mechanisms, and behavioral outcomes. The collective works described here predominantly support the notion that gestational exposure to BPA should be regarded as a risk factor for neurodevelopmental disorders.
Overview of the Importance of Biotics in Gut Barrier Integrity
Authors: Kocot Aleksandra Maria , Jarocka-Cyrta Elżbieta , Drabińska Natalia
Published: March 2022

Increased gut permeability is suggested to be involved in the pathogenesis of a growing number of disorders. The altered intestinal barrier and the subsequent translocation of bacteria or bacterial products into the internal milieu of the human body induce the inflammatory state. Gut microbiota maintains intestinal epithelium integrity. Since dysbiosis contributes to increased gut permeability, the interventions that change the gut microbiota and correct dysbiosis are suggested to also restore intestinal barrier function. In this review, the current knowledge on the role of biotics (probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics and postbiotics) in maintaining the intestinal barrier function is summarized. The potential outcome of the results from in vitro and animal studies is presented, and the need for further well-designed randomized clinical trials is highlighted. Moreover, we indicate the need to understand the mechanisms by which biotics regulate the function of the intestinal barrier. This review is concluded with the future direction and requirement of studies involving biotics and gut barrier.
Development and Characterization of Gentamicin-Loaded Arabinoxylan-Sodium Alginate Films as Antibacterial Wound Dressing
Authors: Alzarea Abdulaziz I. , Alruwaili Nabil K. , Ahmad Muhammad Masood , Munir Muhammad Usman , Butt Adeel Masood , Alrowaili Ziyad A. , Shahari Muhammad Syafiq Bin , Almalki Ziyad S. , Alqahtani Saad S. , Dolzhenko Anton V. , Ahmad Naveed
Published: March 2022

Biopolymer-based antibacterial films are attractive materials for wound dressing application because they possess chemical, mechanical, exudate absorption, drug delivery, antibacterial, and biocompatible properties required to support wound healing. Herein, we fabricated and characterized films composed of arabinoxylan (AX) and sodium alginate (SA) loaded with gentamicin sulfate (GS) for application as a wound dressing. The FTIR, XRD, and thermal analyses show that AX, SA, and GS interacted through hydrogen bonding and were thermally stable. The AXSA film displays desirable wound dressing characteristics: transparency, uniform thickness, smooth surface morphology, tensile strength similar to human skin, mild water/exudate uptake capacity, water transmission rate suitable for wound dressing, and excellent cytocompatibility. In Franz diffusion release studies, >80% GS was released from AXSA films in two phases in 24 h following the Fickian diffusion mechanism. In disk diffusion assay, the AXSA films demonstrated excellent antibacterial effect against E.coli, S. aureus, and P. aeruginosa. Overall, the findings suggest that GS-loaded AXSA films hold potential for further development as antibacterial wound dressing material.
Low-Resolution Infrared Array Sensor for Counting and Localizing People Indoors: When Low End Technology Meets Cutting Edge Deep Learning Techniques
Authors: Bouazizi Mondher , Ye Chen , Ohtsuki Tomoaki
Published: March 2022

In this paper, we propose a method that uses low-resolution infrared (IR) array sensors to identify the presence and location of people indoors. In the first step, we introduce a method that uses 32 × 24 pixels IR array sensors and relies on deep learning to detect the presence and location of up to three people with an accuracy reaching 97.84%. The approach detects the presence of a single person with an accuracy equal to 100%. In the second step, we use lower end IR array sensors with even lower resolution (16 × 12 and 8 × 6) to perform the same tasks. We invoke super resolution and denoising techniques to faithfully upscale the low-resolution images into higher resolution ones. We then perform classification tasks and identify the number of people and their locations. Our experiments show that it is possible to detect up to three people and a single person with accuracy equal to 94.90 and 99.85%, respectively, when using frames of size 16 × 12. For frames of size 8 × 6, the accuracy reaches 86.79 and 97.59%, respectively. Compared to a much complex network (i.e., RetinaNet), our method presents an improvement of over 8% in detection.
A Dynamic Convolutional Network-Based Model for Knowledge Graph Completion
Authors: Peng Haoliang , Wu Yue
Published: March 2022

Knowledge graph embedding can learn low-rank vector representations for knowledge graph entities and relations, and has been a main research topic for knowledge graph completion. Several recent works suggest that convolutional neural network (CNN)-based models can capture interactions between head and relation embeddings, and hence perform well on knowledge graph completion. However, previous convolutional network models have ignored the different contributions of different interaction features to the experimental results. In this paper, we propose a novel embedding model named DyConvNE for knowledge base completion. Our model DyConvNE uses a dynamic convolution kernel because the dynamic convolutional kernel can assign weights of varying importance to interaction features. We also propose a new method of negative sampling, which mines hard negative samples as additional negative samples for training. We have performed experiments on the data sets WN18RR and FB15k-237, and the results show that our method is better than several other benchmark algorithms for knowledge graph completion. In addition, we used a new test method when predicting the Hits@1 values of WN18RR and FB15k-237, named specific-relationship testing. This method gives about a 2% relative improvement over models that do not use this method in terms of Hits@1.
Teacher Perceptions on Virtual Reality Escape Rooms for STEM Education
Authors: Mystakidis Stylianos , Christopoulos Athanasios
Published: March 2022

Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is a meta-discipline employing active, problem-centric approaches such as game-based learning. STEM competencies are an essential part of the educational response to the transformations caused by the fourth industrial revolution, spearheaded by the convergence of multiple exponential technologies. Teachers’ attitude is a critical success factor for any technology-enhanced learning innovation. This study explored in-service teachers’ views on the use of a digital educational escape room in virtual reality. Forty-one (n = 41) K-12 educators participated in a mixed research study involving a validated survey questionnaire instrument and an online debriefing session in the context of a teacher training program. The key findings revealed that such alternative instructional solutions can potentially enhance the cognitive benefits and learning outcomes, but further highlighted the shortcomings that instructional designers should consider while integrating them in contexts different than the intended. In line with this effort, more systematic professional development actions are recommended to encourage the development of additional teacher-led interventions.
Adoption of Large-Scale Scrum Practices through the Use of Management 3.0
Authors: Almeida Fernando , Espinheira Eduardo
Published: March 2022

Software engineering companies have progressively incorporated agile project management methodologies. Initially, this migration occurred mostly in the context of startups, but in recent years it has also sparked interest from other companies with larger and more geographically dispersed teams. One of the frameworks used for large-scale agile implementation is the LeSS framework. This study seeks to explore how Management 3.0 principles can be applied in the context of the ten practices proposed in the LeSS framework. To this end, a qualitative research methodology based on four case studies is used to identify and explore the role of Management 3.0 in software management and development processes that adopt this agile paradigm. The findings show that the principles of Management 3.0 are relevant to the implementation of the LeSS framework practices, especially in fostering team values and personal values; however, distinct principles between the two paradigms are also identified, namely the greater rigidity of processes advocated in the LeSS framework and a greater focus on process automation.
Identifying Faked Responses in Questionnaires with Self-Attention-Based Autoencoders
Authors: Purpura Alberto , Sartori Giuseppe , Giorgianni Dora , Orrú Graziella , Susto Gian Antonio
Published: March 2022

Deception, also known as faking, is a critical issue when collecting data using questionnaires. As shown by previous studies, people have the tendency to fake their answers whenever they gain an advantage from doing so, e.g., when taking a test for a job application. Current methods identify the general attitude of faking but fail to identify faking patterns and the exact responses affected. Moreover, these strategies often require extensive data collection of honest responses and faking patterns related to the specific questionnaire use case, e.g., the position that people are applying to. In this work, we propose a self-attention-based autoencoder (SABA) model that can spot faked responses in a questionnaire solely relying on a set of honest answers that are not necessarily related to its final use case. We collect data relative to a popular personality test (the 10-item Big Five test) in three different use cases, i.e., to obtain: (i) child custody in court, (ii) a position as a salesperson, and (iii) a role in a humanitarian organization. The proposed model outperforms by a sizeable margin in terms of F1 score three competitive baselines, i.e., an autoencoder based only on feedforward layers, a distribution model, and a k-nearest-neighbor-based model.
Impact of Rice and Potato Host Plants Is Higher on the Reproduction than Growth of Corn Strain Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Acharya Rajendra , Malekera Matabaro Joseph , Dhungana Sanjeev Kumar , Sharma Sushant Raj , Lee Kyeong-Yeoll
Published: March 2022

The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda, is an invasive pest species that has recently increased its range in most African and Asian countries, causing significant losses to crop yields, especially corn. To develop effective management strategies, it is particularly important to study the biology of FAW in various crops. Here, we utilized the age-stage, two-sex life table to examine the development, survival, and reproduction rate of the corn strain FAW on three different host plants: corn, rice, and potato. The corn strain FAW successfully completed its life cycle in rice and potato, as well as corn plants. However, the growth, developmental time, survival, and reproduction rate differed among the three host plants. The preadult survival rates in corn, rice, and potato were 92%, 81%, and 77%, respectively. Similarly, mean generation time was significantly shorter in corn (35 days), followed by rice (41 days) and potato (42 days), indicating more generations in corn. Interestingly, the net reproduction rate varied greatly among the three host plants. In corn-fed FAW, the net reproduction rate was 472 offspring per individual, whereas, in rice and potato crops, the rates were only 213 and 86 offspring per individual, respectively. Our results suggest that alternative host plants, such as potato and rice, have more effect on reproduction than the growth of corn strain FAW. These results may be useful in predicting the population dynamics of FAW and understanding the potential damage to crops, thus contributing to an appropriate management strategy in the newly FAW-invaded agricultural ecosystems.
Identification and Functional Analysis of Glutathione S-Transferases from Sitophilus zeamais in Olfactory Organ
Authors: Xia Daosong , Zheng Renwen , Huang Jianhua , Lu Sihan , Tang Qingfeng
Published: March 2022

Odorant-degrading enzymes (ODEs) play an important role in rapidly degrading and inactivating odorant molecules that have completed information transmission, as well as in maintaining the stability and sensitivity of insect olfactory sensing systems. Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs), as a group of ODEs, supposedly bear the ability to catalyze the conjugation of glutathione (GSH) and xenobiotic odorant molecules in the degrading process. However, there are few reports regarding the role of the GST genes of Sitophilus zeamais in the degrading process. Thus, we characterized 13 full-length genes encoding GST sequences from S. zeamais, of which only SzeaGSTd1 contained a high abundance in the antennae. Ligand-binding assays implied that SzeaGSTd1 was able to catalyze the conjugation of GSH with 2, 4-dinitrochlorobenzene (CDNB). We investigated whether recombinant SzeaGSTd1 bears the ability to degrade the volatile molecules of the host; among the host volatiles, and found capryl alcohol to be a suitable substrate for SzeaGSTd1. These results strongly suggest that SzeaGSTd1 probably plays a role in auxiliary host location by degrading the host volatiles of capryl alcohol and exhibits a potential biological function in the olfactory sensing system of S. zeamais. Knowledge of the potential functions of SzeaGSTd1 will provide new ideas for biological control strategies for S. zeamais.
A Review of Commercial Metarhizium- and Beauveria-Based Biopesticides for the Biological Control of Ticks in the USA
Authors: Sullivan Cheryl Frank , Parker Bruce L. , Skinner Margaret
Published: March 2022

There is a need for the development of sustainable, nonchemical tick management strategies. Mycoacaricide and mycoinsecticide product development worldwide has focused primarily on fungi in the genera Beauveria (Hypocreales: Cordycipitaceae) and Metarhizium (Hypocreales: Clavicipitaceae). Microbial biopesticides containing entomopathogenic fungi have potential in tick management. However, despite considerable progress in the development of fungal biopesticides over the past 20 years, the establishment of commercial products available for use against ticks continues to be slow. We reviewed published scientific literature and compiled a comprehensive list of reports of the effectiveness of commercial biopesticides based on the fungal genera Metarhizium and Beauveria and registered for use in the USA against ixodid ticks under laboratory and field conditions. We also report on results when these biopesticides were used as a part of integrated tick management. Until efficacious fungus-based products become more available, tick management will rely primarily on synthetic chemical acaricides, with natural-product acaricides as the alternative.
Modeling of Control Efforts against Rhipicephalus sanguineus, the Vector of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever in Sonora Mexico
Authors: Alvarez-Hernandez Gerardo , Trejo Alejandro Villegas , Ratti Vardayani , Teglas Michael , Wallace Dorothy I.
Published: March 2022

Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) is a significant health problem in Sonora, Mexico. The tick vector, Rhipicephalus sanguineus, feeds almost exclusively on domestic dogs that, in this region, also serve as the reservoir for the tick-borne pathogen, Rickettsia rickettsii. A process-based mathematical model of the life cycle of R. sanguineus was developed to predict combinations of insecticidal dog collars and long-lasting insecticidal wall treatments resulting in suppression of indoor tick populations. Because of a high burden of RMSF in a rural community near the Sonora state capital of Hermosillo, a test area was treated with a combination of insecticidal dog collars and long-lasting insecticidal wall treatments from March 2018 to April 2019, with subsequent reduction in RMSF cases and deaths. An estimated 80% of the dogs in the area had collars applied and 15% of the houses were treated. Data on tick abundance on walls and dogs, collected during this intervention, were used to parameterize the model. Model results show a variety of treatment combinations likely to be as successful as the one carried out in the test community.
The Genomics and Population Genomics of the Light Brown Apple Moth, Epiphyas postvittana, an Invasive Tortricid Pest of Horticulture
Authors: Thrimawithana Amali H. , Wu Chen , Christeller John T. , Simpson Robert M. , Hilario Elena , Tooman Leah K. , Begum Doreen , Jordan Melissa D. , Crowhurst Ross , Newcomb Richard D. , Grapputo Alessandro
Published: March 2022

The light brown apple moth, Epiphyas postvittana is an invasive, polyphagous pest of horticultural systems around the world. With origins in Australia, the pest has subsequently spread to New Zealand, Hawaii, California and Europe, where it has been found on over 500 plants, including many horticultural crops. We have produced a genomic resource, to understand the biological basis of the polyphagous and invasive nature of this and other lepidopteran pests. The assembled genome sequence encompassed 598 Mb and has an N50 of 301.17 kb, with a BUSCO completion rate of 97.9%. Epiphyas postvittana has 34% of its assembled genome represented as repetitive sequences, with the majority of the known elements made up of longer DNA transposable elements (14.07 Mb) and retrotransposons (LINE 17.83 Mb). Of the 31,389 predicted genes, 28,714 (91.5%) were assigned to 11,438 orthogroups across the Lepidoptera, of which 945 were specific to E. postvittana. Twenty gene families showed significant expansions in E. postvittana, including some likely to have a role in its pest status, such as cytochrome p450s, glutathione-S-transferases and UDP-glucuronosyltransferases. Finally, using a RAD-tag approach, we investigated the population genomics of this pest, looking at its likely patterns of invasion.
Agronomic Factors Influencing Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) Infestation and Damage and Its Co-Occurrence with Stemborers in Maize Cropping Systems in Kenya
Authors: Mutyambai Daniel Munyao , Niassy Saliou , Calatayud Paul-André , Subramanian Sevgan
Published: March 2022

Fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda J.E Smith, (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a serious invasive pest of maize that has been established in Kenya since 2016. Little is known about its co-occurrence with resident stemborers, relative infestation and damage and how agronomic factors influence its infestation and damage in maize cropping systems across different agro-ecological zones. This study assessed FAW co-occurrence with resident stemborers, relative infestation and damage across three agro-ecological zones, and the effects of different agronomic practices on its infestation and damage in maize cropping systems in Kenya. A total of 180 maize farms were surveyed across three different agro-ecological zones. FAW infestation and damage was highest in lowlands compared to mid-altitude and high-altitude lands. Its population (eggs and larvae) dominated that of resident stemborers in maize fields. Maize grown under mixed cropping systems, with rainfed production and weeded frequently had low infestation and damage compared to those grown under monoculture, with irrigation and no weeding, respectively. Young vegetative maize plants were more infested and damaged compared to mature plants. Different maize varieties were found to have different infestation and damage levels with Pioneer having the least damage. These results demonstrate that agronomic practices play a role in influencing FAW infestation and damage in maize cropping systems. Further, the population of FAW is dominating that of stemborers in maize cropping systems in Kenya, four years after its invasion. Thus, agronomic practices need to be considered while designing sustainable agro-ecological-based management solutions for resource-constrained smallholder farmers.
Characterization of Laser Systems at 1550 nm Wavelength for Future Gravitational Wave Detectors
Authors: Meylahn Fabian , Willke Benno
Published: March 2022

The continuous improvement of current gravitational wave detectors (GWDs) and the preparations for next generation GWDs place high demands on their stabilized laser sources. Some of the laser sources need to operate at laser wavelengths between 1.5 μm and 2.2 μm to support future detectors based on cooled silicon test masses for thermal noise reduction. We present detailed characterizations of different commercial low power seed laser sources and power amplifiers at the wavelength of 1550 nm with respect to performance parameters needed in GWDs. A combination with the most complete set of actuators was arranged as a master-oscillator power amplifier (MOPA), integrated into a stabilization environment and characterized. We present the results of this characterization that make this stabilized MOPA a highly relevant prototype for future GWDs as well as a low noise light source for other experiments in high precision metrology.
Distal Interphalangeal Joint Involvement May Be Associated with Disease Activity and Affected Joint Distribution in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Mizuuchi Takahiro , Sawada Tetsuji , Nishiyama Susumu , Tahara Koichiro , Hayashi Haeru , Mori Hiroaki , Kato Eri , Tago Mayu , Matsui Toshihiro , Tohma Shigeto
Published: March 2022

We investigated the relationship between distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint involvement and disease activity in 10,038 patients with adult-onset rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The affected joint distribution was investigated using the joint indices (JI) x, y, and z, corresponding to the upper and lower joints, and the predominance of large-joint involvement, respectively. DIP joint involvement (defined by the presence of tenderness and/or swelling in DIP joints) was present in 206 (2.1%) of 10,038 patients with RA. Patients with RA exhibiting DIP joint involvement were significantly younger, and more frequently women. DIP joint involvement was positively associated with Disease Activity Score-28 using C-reactive protein, and clinical variables related to high RA disease activity, including JIs x and y, and was negatively associated with JI z. JI x was significantly higher than JI y in RA patients with DIP joint involvement. An odds ratio analysis revealed that small-to-medium sized and upper-extremity joints ranked first, second, and fourth among the eight variables significantly associated with DIP joint involvement. The correlation coefficients revealed that small-sized and upper-extremity joints ranked first and second among the five significant variables. DIP joint involvement, albeit rare, is significantly associated with high RA disease activity with predominance of small-sized and upper-extremity joints.
“In Less than No Time”: Feasibility of Rotational Thromboelastometry to Detect Anticoagulant Drugs Activity and to Guide Reversal Therapy
Authors: Pavoni Vittorio , Gianesello Lara , Conti Duccio , Ballo Piercarlo , Dattolo Pietro , Prisco Domenico , Görlinger Klaus
Published: March 2022

Anticoagulant drugs (i.e., unfractionated heparin, low-molecular-weight heparins, vitamin K antagonists, and direct oral anticoagulants) are widely employed in preventing and treating venous thromboembolism (VTE), in preventing arterial thromboembolism in nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF), and in treating acute coronary diseases early. In certain situations, such as bleeding, urgent invasive procedures, and surgical settings, the evaluation of anticoagulant levels and the monitoring of reversal therapy appear essential. Standard coagulation tests (i.e., activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and prothrombin time (PT)) can be normal, and the turnaround time can be long. While the role of viscoelastic hemostatic assays (VHAs), such as rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM), has successfully increased over the years in the management of bleeding and thrombotic complications, its usefulness in detecting anticoagulants and their reversal still appears unclear.