bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adenine Nucleotide Translocase 1 Expression Modulates the Immune Response in Ischemic Hearts
Authors: Yergöz Fatih , Friebel Julian , Kränkel Nicolle , Rauch-Kroehnert Ursula , Schultheiss Heinz-Peter , Landmesser Ulf , Dörner Andrea
Published: August 2021

Adenine nucleotide translocase 1 (ANT1) transfers ATP and ADP over the mitochondrial inner membrane and thus supplies the cell with energy. This study analyzed the role of ANT1 in the immune response of ischemic heart tissue. Ischemic ANT1 overexpressing hearts experienced a shift toward an anti-inflammatory immune response. The shift was characterized by low interleukin (IL)-1β expression and M1 macrophage infiltration, whereas M2 macrophage infiltration and levels of IL-10, IL-4, and transforming growth factor (TGFβ) were increased. The modulated immune response correlated with high mitochondrial integrity, reduced oxidative stress, low left ventricular end-diastolic heart pressure, and a high survival rate. Isolated ANT1-transgenic (ANT1-TG) cardiomyocytes expressed low levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1α, tumor necrosis factor α, and TGFβ. However, they showed increased expression and cellular release of anti-inflammatory immunomodulators such as vascular endothelial growth factor. The secretome from ANT1-TG cardiomyocytes initiated stress resistance when applied to ischemic wild-type cardiomyocytes and endothelial cells. It additionally prevented macrophages from expressing pro-inflammatory cytokines. Additionally, ANT1 expression correlated with genes that are related to cytokine and growth factor pathways in hearts of patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy. In conclusion, ANT1-TG cardiomyocytes secrete soluble factors that influence ischemic cardiac cells and initiate an anti-inflammatory immune response in ischemic hearts.
The Action Difference of Lasiodiplodia theobromae on Infecting and Dyeing Poplar Wood in Spatial Growth
Authors: Liu Yuansong , Gao Yunxiao , Yu Zhiming , Zhang Yang
Published: August 2021

Many factors affect the driving force of fungal growth and secretion. To compare the differences of Lasiodiplodia theobromae infected poplar wood, the changes of physical and chemical properties of vertically and horizontally infected poplar wood before and after dyeing were analyzed, and the infection characteristics were studied in this paper. The horizontal infection was more effective than the vertical infection in terms of infection depth, color depth, and microscopic hyphal invasion. The mycelium first intruded into the earlywood tissue and began to secrete a large amount of pigment after twenty days. The crystallinity of mycelium decreased slightly, and the difference in weight loss rate was negligible. The initial contact angle of the dyed specimen on the horizontal infection increased drastically in distilled water, but there was almost no difference between varnish and natural coating. The horizontal infection was more efficient than the vertical infection and had a higher color depth and a better induction effect, which is crucial in future microbial dyeing.
Synthesis of Ag Loaded ZnO/BiOCl with High Photocatalytic Performance for the Removal of Antibiotic Pollutants
Authors: Zhang Zhihao , Zada Amir , Cui Nan , Liu Naiwen , Liu Minghui , Yang Yuzhuo , Jiang Delong , Jiang Jianhui , Liu Shuyuan
Published: August 2021

Ag@ZnO/BiOCl composites were successfully prepared by in situ precipitation and hydrothermal synthesis and used for the photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline hydrochloride antibiotics. An enhanced photodegradation efficiency was detected after loading Ag nanoparticles, which is attributed to the surface plasmon resonance effect. The optimized sample containing 4% Ag showed 80.4% degradation efficiency in 80 min, which is 2.1 and 1.9 times higher than those of ZnO and ZnO/BiOCl, respectively. The major degrading species involved in the photocatalytic process were detected to be super oxide anions and holes. Based on the obtained results, a possible charge transfer and degradation mechanism has been proposed. This study shows that Ag@ZnO/BiOCl catalyst has a good potential for photodegradation of organic pollutants in water.
Metabolic Changes in Maternal and Cord Blood in One Case of Pregnancy-Associated Breast Cancer Seen by Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging Microscopy
Authors: Zhou Li , Kong Yawei , Wu Junxin , Li Xingzhi , Fei Yiyan , Ma Jiong , Wang Yulan , Mi Lan
Published: August 2021

Pregnancy-associated breast cancer (PABC) is a rare disease, which is frequently diagnosed at an advanced stage due to limitations in current diagnostic methods. In this study, fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) was used to study the metabolic changes by measuring maternal blood and umbilical cord blood via the autofluorescence of coenzymes, reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (phosphate) (NAD(P)H), and flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD). The NAD(P)H data showed that a PABC case had significant differences compared with normal cases, which may indicate increased glycolysis. The FAD data showed that both maternal and cord blood of PABC had shorter mean lifetimes and higher bound-FAD ratios. The significant differences suggested that FLIM testing of blood samples may be a potential method to assist in PABC non-radiative screening.
Research on Fresh and Hardened Sealing Slurries with the Addition of Magnesium Regarding Thermal Conductivity for Energy Piles and Borehole Heat Exchangers
Authors: Sliwa Tomasz , Kowalski Tomasz , Cekus Dominik , Sapińska-Śliwa Aneta
Published: August 2021

Currently, renewable energy is increasingly important in the energy sector. One of the so-called renewable energy sources is geothermal energy. The most popular solution implemented by both small and large customers is the consumption of low-temperature geothermal energy using borehole heat exchanger (BHE) systems assisted by geothermal heat pumps. Such an installation can operate regardless of geological conditions, which makes it extremely universal. Borehole heat exchangers are the most important elements of this system, as their design determines the efficiency of the entire heating or heating-and-cooling system. Filling/sealing slurry is amongst the crucial structural elements. In borehole exchangers, reaching the highest possible thermal conductivity of the cement slurry endeavors to improve heat transfer between the rock mass and the heat carrier. The article presents a proposed design for such a sealing slurry. Powdered magnesium was used as an additive to the cement. The approximate cost of powdered magnesium is PLN 70–90 per kg (EUR 15–20/kg). Six different slurry formulations were tested. Magnesium flakes were used in designs A, B, C, and magnesium shavings in D, E and F. The samples differed in the powdered magnesium content BWOC (by weight of cement). The parameters of fresh and hardened sealing slurries were tested, focusing mainly on the thermal conductivity parameter. The highest thermal conductivity values were obtained in design C with the 45% addition of magnesium flakes BWOC.
Alteration of Bending Properties of Wood Due to Ammonia Treatment and Additional Densification
Authors: Hackenberg Herwig , Zauer Mario , Dietrich Tobias , Hackenberg Katharina A. M. , Wagenführ André
Published: August 2021

This paper deals with comparative studies of bending behavior of untreated and modified European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.), European oak (Quercus spp.) and black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.). The modification of the woods included both ammonia treatment and ammonia treatment in combination with mechanical densification. For each ammonia treatment, pure gaseous ammonia was used. The investigations were conducted by means of three-point bending tests. The bulk density increases significantly due to ammonia treatment and, furthermore, due to additional mechanical densification. The modulus of rupture is not affected by ammonia treatment. Additional mechanical densification, however, leads to a strong increase in the strength and stiffness. The deflection behavior changes in such a way that the ammonia treatment leads to an increase in deflection, and the additional mechanical densification further reinforces this trend.
Food Waste of Italian Families: Proportion in Quantity and Monetary Value of Food Purchases
Authors: Aureli Vittoria , Scalvedi Maria Luisa , Rossi Laura
Published: August 2021

Halving per capita food waste (FW) is one of the objectives of the Sustainable Development Goals. This study aims to evaluate the weight and monetary values of food waste among a sample of Italian families. In a representative sample of 1142 families, the adults responsible for food purchases and in charge of preparing meals were assessed with a self-administrated questionnaire measuring quantity and typology of FW. These data were linked with food purchases figures measured as an average of four weeks. Italian families wasted 399 kg of food per week (4.4% of the weight of food purchased), which correspond to a monetary value of €1.052 (3.8% of the overall food expenditure). Clustering the food groups according to waste quantity, typology, and monetary value made it possible to show that price has a role in the generation of food waste, as the lower the unitary cost, the higher the quantity of waste. Consequently, foods with high unitary costs were less wasted. The results of this study showed that Italian consumers are sensitive to the economic impact of waste and this should be considered in sensitization campaigns.
Dynamic Modeling of Carnobacterium maltaromaticum CNCM I-3298 Growth and Metabolite Production and Model-Based Process Optimization
Authors: Puentes Cristian , Girardeau Amélie , Passot Stephanie , Fonseca Fernanda , Trelea Ioan-Cristian
Published: August 2021

Carnobacterium maltaromaticum is a species of lactic acid bacteria found in dairy, meat, and fish, with technological properties useful in food biopreservation and flavor development. In more recent years, it has also proven to be a key element of biological time–temperature integrators for tracking temperature variations experienced by perishable foods along the cold-chain. A dynamic model for the growth of C. maltaromaticum CNCM I-3298 and production of four metabolites (formic acid, acetic acid, lactic acid, and ethanol) from trehalose in batch culture was developed using the reaction scheme formalism. The dependence of the specific growth and production rates as well as the product inhibition parameters on the operating conditions were described by the response surface method. The parameters of the model were calibrated from eight experiments, covering a broad spectrum of culture conditions (temperatures between 20 and 37 °C; pH between 6.0 and 9.5). The model was validated against another set of eight independent experiments performed under different conditions selected in the same range. The model correctly predicted the growth kinetics of C. maltaromaticum CNCM I-3298 as well as the dynamics of the carbon source conversion, with a mean relative error of 10% for biomass and 14% for trehalose and the metabolites. The paper illustrates that the proposed model is a valuable tool for optimizing the culture of C. maltaromaticum CNCM I-3298 by determining operating conditions that favor the production of biomass or selected metabolites. Model-based optimization may thus reduce the number of experiments and substantially speed up the process development, with potential applications in food technology for producing starters and improving the yield and productivity of the fermentation of sugars into metabolites of industrial interest.
Optical Characteristics of Electromagnetic Radiation, Emitted by Particles or Stars Moving near Supermassive Black Hole
Authors: Komarov Stanislav
Published: August 2021

The general problem of calculating of the propagation of electromagnetic radiation from particles or stars moving in the vicinity of a supermassive black hole is considered in geometrical optics approximation within the framework of the general theory of relativity. Different approaches that can be used to calculate certain characteristics of radiation, including redshift, the intensity and rotation of the plane of polarization, which have been presented in the literature are analysed herein. The inverse problem—the calculation of the parameters of the motion of the source (star or particle) from the data of the redshift, the intensity and the plane of polarization—is also considered.
Whole Genome Sequencing Reveals Multiple Linked Genetic Variants on Canine Chromosome 12 Associated with Risk for Symmetrical Lupoid Onychodystrophy (SLO) in the Bearded Collie
Authors: Gershony Liza C. , Belanger Janelle M. , Hytönen Marjo K. , Lohi Hannes , Oberbauer Anita M.
Published: August 2021

In dogs, symmetrical lupoid onychodystrophy (SLO) results in nail loss and an abnormal regrowth of the claws. In Bearded Collies, an autoimmune nature has been suggested because certain dog leukocyte antigen (DLA) class II haplotypes are associated with the condition. A genome-wide association study of the Bearded Collie revealed two regions of association that conferred risk for disease: one on canine chromosome (CFA) 12 that encompasses the DLA genes, and one on CFA17. Case-control association was employed on whole genome sequencing data to uncover putative causative variants in SLO within the CFA12 and CFA17 associated regions. Genotype imputation was then employed to refine variants of interest. Although no SLO-associated protein-coding variants were identified on CFA17, multiple variants, many with predicted damaging effects, were identified within potential candidate genes on CFA12. Furthermore, many potentially damaging alleles were fully correlated with the presence of DLA class II risk haplotypes for SLO, suggesting that the variants may reflect DLA class II haplotype association with disease or vice versa. Strong linkage disequilibrium in the region precluded the ability to isolate and assess the individual or combined effect of variants on disease development. Nonetheless, all were predictive of risk for SLO and, with judicious assessment, their application in selective breeding may prove useful to reduce the incidence of SLO in the breed.
Bright Light Therapy in Older Adults with Moderate to Very Severe Dementia: Immediate Effects on Behavior, Mood, and Physiological Parameters
Authors: Cibeira Nuria , Maseda Ana , Lorenzo-López Laura , González-Abraldes Isabel , López-López Rocío , Rodríguez-Villamil José L. , Millán-Calenti José C.
Published: August 2021

Bright light therapy (BLT) has demonstrated positive short- and long-term effects in people with cognitive impairment or dementia; however, the immediate impact of BLT sessions has been scarcely investigated. In this study, we aimed to explore the immediate effects of BLT on behavior, mood, and physiological parameters (oxygen saturation/heart rate) in a sample of institutionalized older adults with moderate to very severe dementia, with a median age of 85.0 (interquartile range, IQR, 82.0–90.0), being higher in men (87.0 years, IQR 80.0–94.0) than in women (84.5 years, IQR 82.0–89.5). The BLT protocol consisted of 30-min morning sessions of 10,000 lux, Monday through Friday, for 4 weeks. The physiological parameters were recorded immediately before and after each session by pulse oximetry. Mood and behavior were assessed before, after, and during the sessions using the Interact scale. Post-session Interact scores showed a significant decrease in the items Tearful/sad and Talked spontaneously, and a significant increase in the items Enjoying self, active or alert, and Relaxed, content or sleeping appropriately. Interact scores during the sessions reflected a significant decrease in the speech-related items. Both physiological parameters changed positively from before to after sessions. Our results suggest that BLT provides immediate positive effects on mood, stimulation level, and physiological parameters, as well as a trend toward decreased speech. More robust research is needed to further explore the immediate impact of BLT. This study is registered with Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04949984).
Morphological Study of the Effect of Aerobic Exercise on Organs and Arteries in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Xiong Yingzhe , Luan Yisheng , Zhang Bing , Zhang Shu , Wang Xiaofei
Published: August 2021

Hypertension is usually accompanied by the impairment of organs and arteries, and seriously threatens human health. Aerobic exercise can effectively prevent and treat hypertension. However, the mechanism of exercise therapy in hypertension is still unclear. In this study, we explored how aerobic exercise effectively reversed the impairment of the heart, kidney, and arteries caused by hypertension through a pathomorphological perspective. Spontaneously hypertensive rats were subjected to fifteen weeks of 45 min and 90 min swimming training without weight, and we then tested the effect of exercise on the morphology and structure of the heart, kidney, iliac artery, and branch of the mesenteric artery. We found that the myocardial fibers became thinner, the cross-sectional area of myocardial cells decreased, and cardiomyocyte edema disappeared after 45 min of aerobic exercise. Additionally, the pathological microstructure of glomeruli and renal tubules were improved. At the same time, aerobic exercise could also reverse the morphology and structure of arteries and mesenteric artery branches in spontaneously hypertensive rats.
“Now I Feel That I Can Achieve Something”: Young Tanzanian Women’s Experiences of Empowerment by Participating in Health Promotion Campaigns
Authors: Dalsmo Ingrid Espegren , Haraldstad Kristin , Johannessen Berit , Hovland Olav Johannes , Chiduo Mercy G. , Fegran Liv
Published: August 2021

The United Nations (UN) emphasizes that health promotion, education, and empowerment of women are all goals that will help to end poverty. In eastern rural Tanzania, young women who dropped out of school now take an active part in health promotion campaigns in schools and villages through the youth program “Innovative and Productive Youth”, which is administered by the nongovernmental organization Hatua na Maendeleo (HAMA). The aim of this qualitative study was to explore how some of these young Tanzanian women experience participating in health promotion campaigns. A hermeneutic phenomenology design with focus group interviews was used. The study’s participants were nine young women between the ages of 18 and 23 who had participated in the youth program for one year. In addition, the participants were given the opportunity to provide written elaboration in Kiswahili after the interviews. The findings were analyzed from an empowerment perspective and revealed the benefits that the young women had experienced, which were expressed as three themes, i.e., my involvement in the campaigns (a) made me strong and confident, (b) made me become a role model, and (c) made me think that I can achieve something. Involvement in health promotion campaigns seemed to empower the young women by increasing their confidence and providing a feeling of self-efficacy. In addition, their health literacy increased, which appeared to have a ripple effect on their families, peers, and the local community. The findings from this study provide insight into the participants’ self-reported short-term effects. Moreover, with this study, it can be argued that by empowering individuals, community transformation can be seen as well.
A Survey of Scan-to-BIM Practices in the AEC Industry—A Quantitative Analysis
Authors: Rocha Gustavo , Mateus Luís
Published: August 2021

Architectural survey methods using terrestrial 3D laser scanning and digital photogrammetry prove capable of registering a building with a level of accuracy far superior to traditional methods, minimizing errors, and reducing fieldwork. Current developments in the construction industry, and new requirements emerging worldwide, have increased the demand for building information modeling (BIM) models as the end product of these surveys. Still, because BIM is a new paradigm, many professionals find the transition challenging, especially when dealing with old and heritage buildings. The new ways of the market demand solutions to optimize processes and make architectural reconstruction from point clouds even more efficient. An online questionnaire survey was carried out with 208 industry professionals working in 78 countries to assess the scope of these demands. As a result, the article presents an overview of current scan-to-BIM practices worldwide with data regarding the architectural survey and BIM modeling derived from point clouds. The implemented survey also identifies in which countries BIM adherence is most accelerated for conventional buildings and for listed buildings and non-listed old buildings, the main benefits and difficulties encountered by professionals, tools and workflows used, and the role of different professionals in collaborative work.
Acute Reperfusion Therapies for Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Imran Rajeel , Mohamed Ghada A , Nahab Fadi
Published: August 2021

The field of acute stroke treatment has made tremendous progress in reducing the overall burden of disability. Understanding the pathophysiology of acute ischemic injury, neuroimaging to quantify the extent of penumbra and infarction, and acute stroke reperfusion therapies have together contributed to these advancements. In this review we highlight advancements in reperfusion therapies for acute ischemic stroke.
Ethnic Differences in Serum Levels of microRNAs Potentially Regulating Alcohol Dehydrogenase 1B and Aldehyde Dehydrogenase 2
Authors: Wakabayashi Ichiro , Sourij Harald , Sotoda Yoko , Daimon Takashi , Groschner Klaus , Rainer Peter P.
Published: August 2021

Ethnic difference is known in genetic polymorphisms of aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) and alcohol dehydrogenase 1B (ADH1B), which cause Asian flushing by blood vessel dilation due to accumulation of acetaldehyde. We investigated ethnic differences in microRNAs (miRNAs) related to ALDH2 and ADH1B. miRNA levels in serum were totally analyzed by using miRNA oligo chip arrays and compared in Austrian and Japanese middle-aged men. There were no ALDH2- and ADH1B-related miRNAs that had previously been reported in humans and that showed significantly different serum levels between Austrian and Japanese men. With the use of miRNA prediction tools, we identified four and five miRNAs that were predicted to target ALDH2 and ADH1B, respectively, and they had expression levels high enough for comparison. Among the ADH1B-related miRNAs, miR-150-3p, -3127-5p and -4314 were significantly higher and miR-3151-5p was significantly lower in Austrian compared with Japanese men, while no significant difference was found for miR-449b-3p. miR-150-3p and miR-4314 showed relatively high fold changes (1.5 or higher). The levels of ALDH2-related miRNAs (miR-30d-5p, -6127, -6130 and -6133) were not significantly different between the countries. miR-150-3p and miR-4314 are candidates of miRNAs that may be involved in the ethnic difference in sensitivity to alcohol through modifying the expression of ADH1B.
Applicability of Field Aerobic Fitness Tests in Soccer: Which One to Choose?
Authors: Bok Daniel , Foster Carl
Published: August 2021

A desire to make fitness testing cheaper and easier to conduct in a team-sport setting has led to the development of numerous field aerobic fitness tests. This has contributed to a growing confusion among strength and conditioning coaches about which one to use. The main aim of this narrative review was to examine the reliability, validity, sensitivity and usefulness of the commonly used field aerobic fitness tests and to provide practical guidelines for their use in soccer. The University of Montreal track test (UMTT) and Vam Eval test seem the best options for estimation of maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) while the highest signal-to-noise ratio of the 30-15 intermittent fitness test (30-15IFT) suggests its superior sensitivity to track changes in fitness. The UMTT and 30-15IFT are the best solutions for prescription of long and short high-intensity interval training sessions, respectively. All field tests mostly present with marginal usefulness, but the smallest worthwhile change for UMTT or Vam Eval test, Yo-YoIRT2 and 30-15IFT are smaller than their stage increment making the improvement of only one stage in the test performance already worthwhile. Strength and conditioning coaches are advised to choose the test based on their specific purpose of testing.
A Novel Methodology for Measuring the Abstraction Capabilities of Image Recognition Algorithms
Authors: Hudáky Márton Gyula , Lehotay-Kéry Péter , Kiss Attila
Published: August 2021

Creating a widely excepted model on the measure of intelligence became inevitable due to the existence of an abundance of different intelligent systems. Measuring intelligence would provide feedback for the developers and ultimately lead us to create better artificial systems. In the present paper, we show a solution where learning as a process is examined, aiming to detect pre-written solutions and separate them from the knowledge acquired by the system. In our approach, we examine image recognition software by executing different transformations on objects and detect if the software was resilient to it. A system with the required intelligence is supposed to become resilient to the transformation after experiencing it several times. The method is successfully tested on a simple neural network, which is not able to learn most of the transformations examined. The method can be applied to any image recognition software to test its abstraction capabilities.
Spline-Based Dense Medial Descriptors for Lossy Image Compression
Authors: Wang Jieying , Kosinka Jiří , Telea Alexandru
Published: August 2021

Medial descriptors are of significant interest for image simplification, representation, manipulation, and compression. On the other hand, B-splines are well-known tools for specifying smooth curves in computer graphics and geometric design. In this paper, we integrate the two by modeling medial descriptors with stable and accurate B-splines for image compression. Representing medial descriptors with B-splines can not only greatly improve compression but is also an effective vector representation of raster images. A comprehensive evaluation shows that our Spline-based Dense Medial Descriptors (SDMD) method achieves much higher compression ratios at similar or even better quality to the well-known JPEG technique. We illustrate our approach with applications in generating super-resolution images and salient feature preserving image compression.
Self-Assembly and Magnetic Order of Bi-Molecular 2D Spin Lattices of M(II,III) Phthalocyanines on Au(111)
Authors: Baljozović Miloš , Liu Xunshan , Popova Olha , Girovsky Jan , Nowakowski Jan , Rossmann Harald , Nijs Thomas , Moradi Mina , Mousavi S. Fatemeh , Plumb Nicholas C. , Radović Milan , Ballav Nirmalya , Dreiser Jan , Decurtins Silvio , Pašti Igor A. , Skorodumova Natalia V. , Liu Shi-Xia , Jung Thomas A.
Published: August 2021

Single layer low-dimensional materials are presently of emerging interest, including in the context of magnetism. In the present report, on-surface supramolecular architecturing was further developed and employed to create surface supported two-dimensional binary spin arrays on atomically clean non-magnetic Au(111). By chemical programming of the modules, different checkerboards were produced combining phthalocyanines containing metals of different oxidation and spin states, diamagnetic zinc, and a metal-free ‘spacer’. In an in-depth, spectro-microscopy and theoretical account, we correlate the structure and the magnetic properties of these tunable systems and discuss the emergence of 2D Kondo magnetism from the spin-bearing components and via the physico-chemical bonding to the underlying substrate. The contributions of the individual elements, as well as the role of the electronic surface state in the bottom substrate, are discussed, also looking towards further in-depth investigations.
Approximate Iterative Method for Initial Value Problem of Impulsive Fractional Differential Equations with Generalized Proportional Fractional Derivatives
Authors: Agarwal Ravi P. , Hristova Snezhana , O’Regan Donal , Almeida Ricardo
Published: August 2021

The main aim of the paper is to present an algorithm to solve approximately initial value problems for a scalar non-linear fractional differential equation with generalized proportional fractional derivative on a finite interval. The main condition is connected with the one sided Lipschitz condition of the right hand side part of the given equation. An iterative scheme, based on appropriately defined mild lower and mild upper solutions, is provided. Two monotone sequences, increasing and decreasing ones, are constructed and their convergence to mild solutions of the given problem is established. In the case of uniqueness, both limits coincide with the unique solution of the given problem. The approximate method is based on the application of the method of lower and upper solutions combined with the monotone-iterative technique.
Stable Optical Solitons for the Higher-Order Non-Kerr NLSE via the Modified Simple Equation Method
Authors: Rasheed Noha M. , Al-Amr Mohammed O. , Az-Zo’bi Emad A. , Tashtoush Mohammad A. , Akinyemi Lanre
Published: August 2021

This paper studies the propagation of the short pulse optics model governed by the higher-order nonlinear Schrödinger equation (NLSE) with non-Kerr nonlinearity. Exact one-soliton solutions are derived for a generalized case of the NLSE with the aid of software symbolic computations. The modified Kudryashov simple equation method (MSEM) is employed for this purpose under some parametric constraints. The computational work shows the difference, effectiveness, reliability, and power of the considered scheme. This method can treat several complex higher-order NLSEs that arise in mathematical physics. Graphical illustrations of some obtained solitons are presented.
Noncascading Quadratic Buck-Boost Converter for Photovoltaic Applications
Authors: Loera-Palomo Rodrigo , Morales-Saldaña Jorge A. , Rivero Michel , Álvarez-Macías Carlos , Hernández-Jacobo Cesar A.
Published: August 2021

The development of switching converters to perform with the power processing of photovoltaic (PV) applications has been a topic receiving growing interest in recent years. This work presents a nonisolated buck-boost converter with a quadratic voltage conversion gain based on the I–IIA noncascading structure. The converter has a reduced component count and it is formed by a pair of L–C networks and two active switches, which are operated synchronously to achieve a wide conversion ratio and a quadratic dependence with the duty ratio. Additionally, the analysis using different sources and loads demonstrates the differences in the behavior of the converter, as well as the pertinence of including PV devices (current sources) into the analysis of new switching converter topologies for PV applications. In this work, the voltage conversion ratio, steady-state operating conditions and semiconductor stresses of the proposed converter are discussed in the context of PV applications. The operation of the converter in a PV scenario is verified by experimental results.
The Ever-Expanding Pseudomonas Genus: Description of 43 New Species and Partition of the Pseudomonas putida Group
Authors: Girard Léa , Lood Cédric , Höfte Monica , Vandamme Peter , Rokni-Zadeh Hassan , van Noort Vera , Lavigne Rob , De Mot René
Published: August 2021

The genus Pseudomonas hosts an extensive genetic diversity and is one of the largest genera among Gram-negative bacteria. Type strains of Pseudomonas are well known to represent only a small fraction of this diversity and the number of available Pseudomonas genome sequences is increasing rapidly. Consequently, new Pseudomonas species are regularly reported and the number of species within the genus is constantly evolving. In this study, whole genome sequencing enabled us to define 43 new Pseudomonas species and provide an update of the Pseudomonas evolutionary and taxonomic relationships. Phylogenies based on the rpoD gene and whole genome sequences, including, respectively, 316 and 313 type strains of Pseudomonas, revealed sixteen groups of Pseudomonas and, together with the distribution of cyclic lipopeptide biosynthesis gene clusters, enabled the partitioning of the P. putida group into fifteen subgroups. Pairwise average nucleotide identities were calculated between type strains and a selection of 60 genomes of non-type strains of Pseudomonas. Forty-one strains were incorrectly assigned at the species level and among these, 19 strains were shown to represent an additional 13 new Pseudomonas species that remain to be formally classified. This work pinpoints the importance of correct taxonomic assignment and phylogenetic classification in order to perform integrative studies linking genetic diversity, lifestyle, and metabolic potential of Pseudomonas spp.
Toxocara Seroprevalence and Risk Factor Analysis in Four Communities of the Wiwa, an Indigenous Tribe in Colombia
Authors: Waindok Patrick , Kann Simone , Aristizabal Andrés , Dib Juan Carlos , Strube Christina
Published: August 2021

The life of the indigenous Wiwa tribe in northeast Colombia is characterized by lacking access to clean drinking water and sanitary installations. Furthermore, free-roaming domestic animals and use of yucca and/or manioc as a primary food source favor the transmission of soil-transmitted helminths, e.g., Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati, the roundworms of dogs and cats. Infection may result in the clinical picture of toxocarosis, one of the most common zoonotic helminthoses worldwide. To estimate the Toxocara seroprevalence in four different villages of the Wiwa community, serum samples from 483 inhabitants were analyzed for anti-Toxocara-antibodies. Overall, 79.3% (383/483) of analyzed samples were seropositive. Statistically significant differences were observed between the four villages, as well as age groups (adults > adolescents > children), while sex had no effect. The high seropositivity rate demonstrates the risk of zoonotic roundworm infections and potential clinical disease in vulnerable indigenous inhabitants.
Anti-Cancer Activity and Phenolic Content of Extracts Derived from Cypriot Carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) Pods Using Different Solvents
Authors: Gregoriou Gregoria , Neophytou Christiana M. , Vasincu Alexandru , Gregoriou Yiota , Hadjipakkou Haria , Pinakoulaki Eftychia , Christodoulou Marios C. , Ioannou Georgia D. , Stavrou Ioannis J. , Christou Atalanti , Kapnissi-Christodoulou Constantina P. , Aigner Siegfried , Stuppner Hermann , Kakas Antonis , Constantinou Andreas I.
Published: August 2021

Extracts derived from the Ceratonia siliqua L. (carob) tree have been widely studied for their ability to prevent many diseases mainly due to the presence of polyphenolic compounds. In this study, we explored, for the first time, the anti-cancer properties of Cypriot carobs. We produced extracts from ripe and unripe whole carobs, pulp and seeds using solvents with different polarities. We measured the ability of the extracts to inhibit proliferation and induce apoptosis in cancer and normal immortalized breast cells, using the MTT assay, cell cycle analysis and Western Blotting. The extracts’ total polyphenol content and anti-oxidant action was evaluated using the Folin–Ciocalteu method and the DPPH assay. Finally, we used LC-MS analysis to identify and quantify polyphenols in the most effective extracts. Our results demonstrate that the anti-proliferative capacity of carob extracts varied with the stage of carob maturity and the extraction solvent. The Diethyl-ether and Ethyl acetate extracts derived from the ripe whole fruit had high Myricetin content and also displayed specific activity against cancer cells. Their mechanism of action involved caspase-dependent and independent apoptosis. Our results indicate that extracts from Cypriot carobs may have potential uses in the development of nutritional supplements and pharmaceuticals.
3,5-Dicaffeoylquinic Acid Lowers 3T3-L1 Mitotic Clonal Expansion and Adipocyte Differentiation by Enhancing Heme Oxygenase-1 Expression
Authors: Raineri Alice , Campagnari Rachele , Dal Toso Roberto , Copetti Stefano , Gomez-Lira Macarena , Menegazzi Marta
Published: August 2021

Adipogenesis is a complex process in which cell commitment and mitotic clonal expansion (MCE) are in-sequence crucial events leading to terminal adipocyte differentiation. The molecules able to block some key signals in this cascade can hamper adipogenesis becoming promising agents to counteract hyperplasia and hypertrophy of adipose tissue. Mono- and di-caffeoylquinic acid isomers are biologically active polyphenols, displaying in vitro and in vivo antioxidant, hepatoprotective, anti-diabetic and anti-obesity properties. Among these isomers, 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid (DCQA) has been reported to inhibit lipid accumulation in adipose cells more successfully than others. Thus, we investigated DCQA effects and molecular mechanisms on 3T3-L1 pre-adipocytes induced to differentiate with a hormonal cocktail (MDI). Oil Red O incorporation assessed that DCQA pre-treatment inhibited lipid accumulation in 3T3-L1 cells induced to differentiate for 10 days. At this time, an increased phosphorylation of both AMP-activated kinase and acetyl-CoA carboxylase, as well as a strong decrease in fatty acid synthase protein level, were registered by immunoblotting, thereby suggesting that DCQA treatment can reduce fatty acid anabolism in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Furthermore, BrdU incorporation assay, performed 48 h after hormonal stimulation, revealed that DCQA treatment was also able to hinder the 3T3-L1 cell proliferation during the MCE, which is an essential step in the adipogenic process. Thus, we focused our attention on early signals triggered by the differentiation stimuli. In the first hours after hormonal cocktail administration, the activation of ERK1/2 and Akt kinases, or CREB and STAT3 transcription factors, was not affected by DCQA pre-treatment. Whereas 24 h after MDI induction, DCQA pre-treated cells showed increased level of the transcription factor Nrf2, that induced the expression of the antioxidant enzyme heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1). In control samples, the expression level of HO-1 was reduced 24 h after MDI induction in comparison with the higher amount of HO-1 protein found at 2 h. The HO-1 decrease was functional by allowing reactive oxygen species to boost and allowing cell proliferation induction at the beginning of MCE phase. Instead, in DCQA-treated cells the HO-1 expression was maintained at high levels for a further 24 h; in fact, its expression decreased only 48 h after MDI stimulation. The longer period in which HO-1 expression remained high led to a delay of the MCE phase, with a subsequent inhibition of both C/EBP-α expression and adipocyte terminal differentiation. In conclusion, DCQA counteracting an excessive adipose tissue expansion may become an attractive option in obesity treatment.
Accurate Truncations of Chain Mapping Models for Open Quantum Systems
Authors: Sánchez-Barquilla Mónica , Feist Johannes
Published: August 2021

The dynamics of open quantum systems are of great interest in many research fields, such as for the interaction of a quantum emitter with the electromagnetic modes of a nanophotonic structure. A powerful approach for treating such setups in the non-Markovian limit is given by the chain mapping where an arbitrary environment can be transformed to a chain of modes with only nearest-neighbor coupling. However, when long propagation times are desired, the required long chain lengths limit the utility of this approach. We study various approaches for truncating the chains at manageable lengths while still preserving an accurate description of the dynamics. We achieve this by introducing losses to the chain modes in such a way that the effective environment acting on the system remains unchanged, using a number of different strategies. Furthermore, we demonstrate that extending the chain mapping to allow next-nearest neighbor coupling permits the reproduction of an arbitrary environment, and adding longer-range interactions does not further increase the effective number of degrees of freedom in the environment.
Inhibition of the lncRNA Coded within Transglutaminase 2 Gene Impacts Several Relevant Networks in MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Bergamini Carlo M. , Vischioni Chiara , Aguiari Gianluca , Grandi Carmen , Terrazzan Anna , Volinia Stefano , Bianchi Nicoletta , Taccioli Cristian
Published: August 2021

Long non-coding RNAs are nucleotide molecules that regulate transcription in numerous cellular processes and are related to the occurrence of many diseases, including cancer. In this regard, we recently discovered a polyadenylated long non-coding RNA (named TG2-lncRNA) encoded within the first intron of the Transglutaminase type 2 gene (TGM2), which is related to tumour proliferation in human cancer cell lines. To better characterize this new biological player, we investigated the effects of its suppression in MCF-7 breast cancer cells, using siRNA treatment and RNA-sequencing. In this way, we found modifications in several networks associated to biological functions relevant for tumorigenesis (apoptosis, chronic inflammation, angiogenesis, immunomodulation, cell mobility, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition) that were originally attributed only to Transglutaminase type 2 protein but that could be regulated also by TG2-lncRNA. Moreover, our experiments strongly suggest the ability of TG2-lncRNA to directly interact with important transcription factors, such as RXRα and TP53, paving the way for several regulatory loops that can potentially influence the phenotypic behaviour of MCF-7 cells. These considerations imply the need to further investigate the relative relevance of the TG2 protein itself and/or other gene products as key regulators in the organization of breast cancer program.
Timing of Creatine Supplementation around Exercise: A Real Concern?
Authors: Ribeiro Felipe , Longobardi Igor , Perim Pedro , Duarte Breno , Ferreira Pedro , Gualano Bruno , Roschel Hamilton , Saunders Bryan
Published: August 2021

Creatine has been considered an effective ergogenic aid for several decades; it can help athletes engaged in a variety of sports and obtain performance gains. Creatine supplementation increases muscle creatine stores; several factors have been identified that may modify the intramuscular increase and subsequent performance benefits, including baseline muscle Cr content, type II muscle fibre content and size, habitual dietary intake of Cr, aging, and exercise. Timing of creatine supplementation in relation to exercise has recently been proposed as an important consideration to optimise muscle loading and performance gains, although current consensus is lacking regarding the ideal ingestion time. Research has shifted towards comparing creatine supplementation strategies pre-, during-, or post-exercise. Emerging evidence suggests greater benefits when creatine is consumed after exercise compared to pre-exercise, although methodological limitations currently preclude solid conclusions. Furthermore, physiological and mechanistic data are lacking, in regard to claims that the timing of creatine supplementation around exercise moderates gains in muscle creatine and exercise performance. This review discusses novel scientific evidence on the timing of creatine intake, the possible mechanisms that may be involved, and whether the timing of creatine supplementation around exercise is truly a real concern.
Government Options to Reduce the Impact of Alcohol on Human Health: Obstacles to Effective Policy Implementation
Authors: Stockwell Tim , Giesbrecht Norman , Vallance Kate , Wettlaufer Ashley
Published: August 2021

Evidence for effective government policies to reduce exposure to alcohol’s carcinogenic and hepatoxic effects has strengthened in recent decades. Policies with the strongest evidence involve reducing the affordability, availability and cultural acceptability of alcohol. However, policies that reduce population consumption compete with powerful commercial vested interests. This paper draws on the Canadian Alcohol Policy Evaluation (CAPE), a formal assessment of effective government action on alcohol across Canadian jurisdictions. It also draws on alcohol policy case studies elsewhere involving attempts to introduce minimum unit pricing and cancer warning labels on alcohol containers. Canadian governments collectively received a failing grade (F) for alcohol policy implementation during the most recent CAPE assessment in 2017. However, had the best practices observed in any one jurisdiction been implemented consistently, Canada would have received an A grade. Resistance to effective alcohol policies is due to (1) lack of public awareness of both need and effectiveness, (2) a lack of government regulatory mechanisms to implement effective policies, (3) alcohol industry lobbying, and (4) a failure from the public health community to promote specific and feasible actions as opposed to general principles, e.g., ‘increased prices’ or ‘reduced affordability’. There is enormous untapped potential in most countries for the implementation of proven strategies to reduce alcohol-related harm. While alcohol policies have weakened in many countries during the COVID-19 pandemic, societies may now also be more accepting of public health-inspired policies with proven effectiveness and potential economic benefits.
Lower Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI) Is Associated with Higher Risk of Fractures in Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis
Authors: Yoshida Maria , Nakashima Ayumu , Doi Shigehiro , Maeda Kazuya , Ishiuchi Naoki , Naito Takayuki , Masaki Takao
Published: August 2021

Background: Although malnutrition and bone fracture are both major complications in patients undergoing hemodialysis, their association has not been clarified. The aim of our study was to clarify the association between the geriatric nutritional risk index (GNRI), an indicator of nutritional status, and the incidence of bone fractures in patients undergoing hemodialysis. Methods: We included 1342 registered patients undergoing hemodialysis and performed a post hoc analysis. We divided patients into the high GNRI group (≥92), considered to have a low risk of malnutrition, and the low GNRI group (<92), considered to have a high risk of malnutrition. Fracture-free survival in the low and high GNRI groups was evaluated by the Kaplan–Meier method. Cox proportional hazards models were used to identify the risk factors for fractures requiring hospitalization. All results were stratified by sex. Results: New bone fractures developed in 108 (8.0%) patients in 5 years of follow-up. Bone fractures occurred more frequently in the low GNRI group compared with the high GNRI group (HR: 3.51, 95% CI: 1.91–6.42, p < 0.01 in males; HR: 2.47, 95% CI: 1.52–4.03, p < 0.01 in females). A low GNRI was significantly associated with an increased incidence of bone fractures, even after adjustment for covariates. However, the serum levels of calcium, phosphate, parathyroid hormone, and alkaline phosphatase were not associated with the incidence of bone fractures. Conclusions: A low GNRI is an independent risk factor for bone fractures in patients undergoing hemodialysis. Early intervention for the low GNRI group may be important in preventing the occurrence of fractures.