bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Application of Ultrasonic Waves and Microwaves to Improve Antihyperglycaemic and Antimicrobial Activities of Marrubium vulgare Extracts
Authors: Gavarić Aleksandra , Vladić Jelena , Vujetić Jelena , Radnović Dragan , Volarić Ana , Živković Jelena , Šavikin Katarina , Vidović Senka
Published: October 2022

Having scarce information about ultrasound assisted extraction (UAE) and microwave assisted extraction (MAE) of white horehound (Marrubium vulgare L.), the idea has emerged to determine the optimal process parameters for the maximization of polyphenols and to compare the efficiency of these green extraction technologies. The optimal UAE parameters are temperature of 73.6 °C, extraction time of 40 min and ultrasound power of 30.3 W/L, while the optimal MAE parameters are 63.8% ethanol, extraction time of 15 min and microwave power of 422 W. Extract obtained at optimal UAE parameters shows the highest antihyperglycemic activity (α-amylase inhibition: 50.63% and α-glucosidase inhibition: 48.67%), which can potentially be explained by the presence of chlorogenic acid and quercetin, which were not identified in the macerates. The most sensitive bacterial strain to optimal ultrasonic extract is Bacillus cereus, whereas the most sensitive fungal strain is Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
The Peanut Skin Procyanidins Attenuate DSS-Induced Ulcerative Colitis in C57BL/6 Mice
Authors: Wang Na , Chen Weixuan , Cui Chenxu , Zheng Yuru , Yu Qiuying , Ren Hongtao , Liu Zhigang , Xu Chao , Zhang Gaiping
Published: October 2022

Polyphenols from peanut skin have been reported to possess many beneficial functions for human health, including anti-oxidative, antibacterial, anticancer, and other activities. To date, however, its anti-inflammatory effect and the underlying mechanism remain unclear. In this study, the anti-inflammatory effect of peanut skin procyanidins extract (PSPE) and peanut skin procyanidins (PSPc) were investigated by a dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis mouse model. The results showed that both PSPE and PSPc supplementation reversed the DSS-induced body weight loss and reduced disease activity index (DAI) values, accompanied by enhanced goblet cell numbers and tight junction protein claudin-1 expression in the colon. PSPE and PSPc treatment also suppressed the inflammatory responses and oxidative stress in the colon by down-regulating IL-1β, TNF-α, and MDA expressions. Meanwhile, PSPE and PSPc significantly altered the gut microbiota composition by increasing the relative abundance of Clostridium XlVb and Anaerotruncus, and inhibiting the relative abundance of Alistipes at the genus level. PSPE and PSPc also significantly elevated the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in mice with colitis. The correlation analysis suggested that the protective effects of PSPE and PSPc on colitis might be related to the alteration of gut microbiota composition and the formation of SCFAs. In conclusion, the current research indicates that supplementation of PSPE and PSPc could be a promising nutritional strategy for colitis prevention and treatment.
Effects of In Ovo Injection of α-Ketoglutaric Acid on Hatchability, Growth, Plasma Metabolites, and Antioxidant Status of Broilers
Authors: Gupta Vaishali , Ncho Chris Major , Goel Akshat , Jeong Chae-Mi , Choi Yang-Ho
Published: October 2022

Recently, α-ketoglutaric acid (AKG) has gained importance as an antioxidant. Its dietary supplementation in animals and humans has proved beneficial. Moreover, an extensive group of studies on in ovo feeding has proved that it produces better day-old chicks and overall performance. Combining the two, we hypothesized that in ovo feeding of AKG could improve the antioxidant status in addition to chick quality and broiler performance. At 17.5 days of incubation, eggs were divided into one of five groups: eggs that received (i) no injection (U-CON), (ii) distilled water (DDW) only (0 AKG), (iii) 0.5% AKG dissolved in DDW (0.5 AKG), (iv) 1.0% AKG dissolved in DDW (1.0 AKG), or (v) 1.5% AKG dissolved in DDW (1.5 AKG). Chicks were raised until 21 days of age. Biological samples were collected on day 0 and day 21. Body weight (p = 0.020), average daily gain (p = 0.025), and average daily feed intake (p = 0.036) were found to quadratically increase with the amount of AKG during the grower phase. At day 0, the absolute (p = 0.040) and relative weight (p = 0.035) of the liver increased linearly with an increasing amount of AKG. The 0.5 AKG group had significantly higher plasma protein (p = 0.025), absolute and relative heart indices at day 0 (p = 0.006). An in ovo feeding of AKG improved the plasma antioxidant capacity of chicks at day 0 as compared to 0 AKG. AKG effect was seen on the plasma antioxidant balance, which increased linearly with the increasing dose of in ovo AKG. Furthermore, 1.0 AKG and 1.5 AKG showed a significant (p = 0.002) upregulation of the hepatic mRNA expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (NRF2) in comparison to 0 AKG. The results imply that without negatively affecting hatchability performance, in ovo feeding of AKG has beneficial effects on the antioxidant status of broilers.
Extraction, Characterization, and Chitosan Microencapsulation of Bioactive Compounds from Cannabis sativa L., Cannabis indica L., and Mitragyna speiosa K.
Authors: Phupaboon Srisan , Matra Maharach , Prommachart Ronnachai , Totakul Pajaree , Supapong Chanadol , Wanapat Metha
Published: October 2022

The objective of the research was to investigate the bioactive compounds of herbal plant leaves by microencapsulation technique for future application as a feed additive. In this experiment, three herbal plant leaves, namely Cannabis sativa L., Cannabis indica L., and Mitragyna speiosa K., were comparatively investigated using different methods to extract their bioactive compounds. Two methods were used to extract the bioactive compounds: microwave extraction (water-heating transferred) and maceration extraction (methanol extracted). The results obtained using microwave extraction revealed that the total polyphenolic and flavonoid contents and antioxidant capacity were significantly higher and stronger, respectively, than those produced by the maceration extraction method (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the spray-drying technique was employed to enhance the extracted compounds by encapsulation with chitosan through ionic gelation properties. The physical characteristics of chitosan-encapsulated substrates were examined under a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and were as microparticle size (1.45 to 11.0 µm). The encapsulation efficiency of the bioactive compounds was found to be 99.7, 82.3, and 54.6% for microencapsulated M. speiosa, C. indica, and C. sativa, respectively. Therefore, microwave treatment prior to chitosan encapsulation of leaf extracts resulted in increased recovery of bioactive compound encroachment.
Selenoprotein F Knockout Caused Glucose Metabolism Disorder in Young Mice by Disrupting Redox Homeostasis
Authors: Li Min , Zhang Yun , Zhou Jun , Liu Hongmei
Published: October 2022

Selenoprotein F (SELENOF) might play an important role in maintaining human health since an increasing number of studies have linked SELENOF deficiency to various pathologies such as cancer and neurodegeneration. We have previously reported on glucose metabolism disorders in SELENOF knockout mice, which imply a novel biological function of SELENOF in glucose metabolism. However, the underlying mechanism and whether the effect of SELENOF on glucose metabolism is age-dependent remain unknown. In the present study, we compare the metabolic phenotype in more detail as well as the oxidative stress parameters in SELENOF knockout mice (C57BL/6J background) and naïve C57BL/6J mice of different ages (12, 16 and 21 weeks old). The results showed that SELENOF knockout caused glucose metabolism disorders only in young mice, especially in 12-week-old mice, characterized by hyperglycemia, serum insulin reduction, impaired glucose tolerance, decreased insulin sensitivity, decreased glucose catabolism, increased gluconeogenesis and impaired insulin signaling pathway. These abnormalities gradually improved with age and disappeared in knockout mice at 21 weeks old. Furthermore, before 16 weeks old, SELENOF knockout mice showed increased lipid peroxidation and decreased glutathione/glutathione disulfide ratio and glutathione peroxidase activity in the serum and liver. Furthermore, the expression of glutathione peroxidase 1 significantly reduced in the liver and pancreas. Our findings suggest that SELENOF knockout might cause glucose metabolism disorders in young mice via the disruption of redox homeostasis.
Real-Time Visual Feedback in Singing Pedagogy: Current Trends and Future Directions
Authors: Lã Filipa M. B. , Fiuza Mauro B.
Published: October 2022

Singing pedagogy has increasingly adopted guide awareness through the use of meaningful real-time visual feedback. Technology typically used to study the voice can also be applied in a singing lesson, aiming at facilitating students’ awareness of the three subsystems involved in voice production—breathing, oscillatory and resonatory—and their underlying physiological, aerodynamical and acoustical mechanisms. Given the variety of real-time visual feedback tools, this article provides a comprehensive overview of such tools and their current and future pedagogical applications in the voice studio. The rationale for using real-time visual feedback is discussed, including both the theoretical and practical applications of visualizing physiological, aerodynamical and acoustical aspects of voice production. The monitorization of breathing patterns is presented, displaying lung volume as the sum of abdominal and ribcage movements signals. In addition, estimates of subglottal pressure are visually displayed using a subglottal pressure meter to assist with the shaping of musical phrases in singing. As to what concerns vibratory patterns of the vocal folds and phonatory airflow, the use of electroglottography and inverse filters is applied to monitor the phonation types, voice breaks, pitch and intensity range of singers of different music genres. These vocal features, together with intentional voice distortions and intonation adjustments, are also displayed using spectrographs. As the voice is invisible to the eye, the use of real-time visual feedback is proposed as a key pedagogical approach in current and future singing lessons. The use of such an approach corroborates the current trend of developing evidence-based practices in voice education.
Smart Wireless CO2 Sensor Node for IoT Based Strategic Monitoring Tool of The Risk of The Indoor SARS-CoV-2 Airborne Transmission
Authors: Kuncoro C. Bambang Dwi , Amaris Aurelia , Permana Arvanida Feizal
Published: October 2022

A close correlation between CO2 concentration and aerosol enables the wide utilization of CO2 concentration as a good representation of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus-2 infection airborne transmission. On the other side, many indoor air-quality monitoring devices have been developed for indoor monitoring applications. However, most of them are multiparameter air-quality sensor systems and tend to consume relatively high power, are relatively large devices, and are fairly expensive; therefore, they not meet the requirement for indoor monitoring applications. This paper presents a smart wireless sensor node that can measure and monitor CO2 concentration levels. The node was designed to meet the requirements of indoor air-quality monitoring applications by considering several factors, such as compact size, low cost, and low power, as well as providing real-time, continuous, reliable, and remote measurement. Furthermore, the commercial off-the-shelf and low-power consumption components are chosen to fit with the low-cost development and reduce energy consumption. Moreover, a low-power algorithm and cloud-based data logger also were applied to minimize the total power consumption. This power strategy was applied as a preliminary development toward an autonomous sensor node. The node has a compact size and consumes low energy for one cycle of CO2 measurement, accompanied by high accuracy with very low measurement error. The experiment result revealed the node could measure and monitor in real-time continuous, reliable, and remote CO2 concentration levels in indoor and outdoor environments. A user interface visualizes CO2 concentration graphically and numerically using the Adafruit platform for easy accessibility over the Internet of Things. The developed node is very promising and suitable for indoor CO2 monitoring applications with the acquired data that could be utilized as an indicator to minimize the risk of indoor Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus-2 airborne transmission.
Brain Tumor Classification Using Conditional Segmentation with Residual Network and Attention Approach by Extreme Gradient Boost
Authors: Hashmi Arshad , Osman Ahmed Hamza
Published: October 2022

A brain tumor is a tumor in the brain that has grown out of control, which is a dangerous condition for the human body. For later prognosis and treatment planning, the accurate segmentation and categorization of cancers are crucial. Radiologists must use an automated approach to identify brain tumors, since it is an error-prone and time-consuming operation. This work proposes conditional deep learning for brain tumor segmentation, residual network-based classification, and overall survival prediction using structural multimodal magnetic resonance images (MRI). First, we propose conditional random field and convolution network-based segmentation, which identifies non-overlapped patches. These patches need minimal time to identify the tumor. If they overlap, the errors increase. The second part of this paper proposes residual network-based feature mapping with XG-Boost-based learning. In the second part, the main emphasis is on feature mapping in nonlinear space with residual features, since residual features reduce the chances of loss information, and nonlinear space mapping provides efficient tumor information. Features mapping learned by XG-Boost improves the structural-based learning and increases the accuracy class-wise. The experiment uses two datasets: one for two classes (cancer and non-cancer) and the other for three classes (meningioma, glioma, pituitary). The performance on both improves significantly compared to another existing approach. The main objective of this research work is to improve segmentation and its impact on classification performance parameters. It improves by conditional random field and residual network. As a result, two-class accuracy improves by 3.4% and three-class accuracy improves by 2.3%. It is enhanced with a small convolution network. So, we conclude in fewer resources, and better segmentation improves the results of brain tumor classification.
Smart Scalable ML-Blockchain Framework for Large-Scale Clinical Information Sharing
Authors: Rajawat Anand Singh , Goyal S. B. , Bedi Pradeep , Simoff Simeon , Jan Tony , Prasad Mukesh
Published: October 2022

Large-scale clinical information sharing (CIS) provides significant advantages for medical treatments, including enhanced service standards and accelerated scheduling of health services. The current CIS suffers many challenges such as data privacy, data integrity, and data availability across multiple healthcare institutions. This study introduces an innovative blockchain-based electronic healthcare system that incorporates synchronous data backup and a highly encrypted data-sharing mechanism. Blockchain technology, which eliminates centralized organizations and reduces the number of fragmented patient files, could make it easier to use machine learning (ML) models for predictive diagnosis and analysis. In turn, it might lead to better medical care. The proposed model achieved an improved patient-centered CIS by personalizing the separation of information with an intelligent ”allowed list“ for clinician data access. This work introduces a hybrid ML-blockchain solution that combines traditional data storage and blockchain-based access. The experimental analysis evaluated the proposed model against the competing models in comparative and quantitative studies in large-scale CIS examples in terms of model viability, stability, protection, and robustness, with improved results.
Intelligent Trajectory Prediction Algorithm for Reentry Glide Target Based on Intention Inference
Authors: Li Mingjie , Zhou Chijun , Shao Lei , Lei Humin , Luo Changxin
Published: October 2022

Aimed at the problem of the insufficient utilization of intention information and flight data for the trajectory prediction of a reentry glide target, an intelligent trajectory prediction algorithm based on intention inference was proposed. Firstly, a control parameter prediction network was developed to predict the variation of the control parameter values. Secondly, based on the Gaussian mixture model and Dubins circle, the importance of strategic places was modeled, the functional relationship between the strategic places and trajectories was established, and the influence factors of target threat were analyzed. Subsequently, an intention inference network was designed, which can accurately identify the key point the target intends to attack and realize the nonlinear calculation of the target’s threat value. Finally, according to the common guidance law of reentry glide target, the lateral sign-variation rule was designed to carry out the target trajectory prediction based on intention inference. Simulation revealed that the parameter prediction network designed in this paper can realize the modification of filtering control parameters and effectively predict the value of these parameters. Moreover, taking the result of intention inference network, trajectory prediction in different prediction cases was accomplished. The maximal error of spatial distance (MESD) of the proposed method was less than 9 km when the prediction time was 100 s, and the best result was obtained in the long-term prediction. Compared with other mainstream prediction methods, the proposed method obtained the best prediction accuracy.
Effects of Wearing a Swimming Cap and Goggles on Phoria and Fusional Vergence
Authors: Park Seung-Chul , Cho Hyun-Gug , Moon Byeong-Yeon , Kim Sang-Yeob , Yu Dong-Sik
Published: October 2022

This study evaluated changes in phoria and negative (NFV) and positive fusional vergence (PFV) when wearing a cap and/or goggles. Thirty-five healthy university students aged 20–25 years participated in the study. All participants were examined for phoria, NFV, and PFV at distance and near. A rotary prism was used before and after wearing a cap, goggles, and both a cap and goggles. The frequency of overall average change in phoria, NFV, and PFV after wearing swimming equipment compared with non-wearing ranged from one-third to four-fifths. The order of frequency in change was wearing of goggles and a cap, goggles alone, and a cap alone. The frequency of a prism prescription, determined by the relationship between phoria and vergence, was similar or higher for wearing than for non-wearing and higher at near than at distance. The effect on change in phoria and fusional vergence was greater when wearing both a cap and goggles than when wearing either alone. These findings demonstrate that wearing both swimming cap and goggles that contact or attach around the eyes influence phoria and fusional vergence by inducing pressure or pulling. These changes may contribute to the discomfort associated with the wearing of swimming equipment.
Deployment Optimization of Defense Stations in an Attack-Defense Aerial War Game
Authors: Jia Zhi-Xiang , Kiang Jean-Fu
Published: October 2022

An attack–defense aerial war game is developed to maximize the capability of defense forces in protecting a target area from an attack force. The attack force is composed of multiple attack stations in slant or pincer formation, and each attack station can launch multiple attackers against the defense force. The defense force is composed of one major post, two minor posts, and multiple defense stations, and each defense station is equipped with multiple interceptors against the approaching attackers. Four optional defense goals are proposed to guide the deployment of defense stations. A particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is applied to acquire an optimal deployment plan of all the defense stations, under a specific defense goal. Multiple games are played with the optimal deployment plan, and the results are analyzed statistically. Interesting outlier cases are also inspected to gain more insights on the nature of the games.
Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Diabetic Foot Infections: Protein Profiling, Virulence Determinants, and Antimicrobial Resistance
Authors: Abalkhail Adil , Elbehiry Ayman
Published: October 2022

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is one of the most prevalent bacterial pathogens recovered from diabetic foot infections (DFIs). Most S. aureus isolates exhibit methicillin resistance, so treatment is recommended with antimicrobials active against methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) in patients who have risk factors associated with MRSA infections. The main goal of this study was to see if proteomics and molecular methods could be effective in identifying and distinguishing MRSA recovered from DFIs. Since MRSA is highly resistant to β-lactam antibiotics and usually does not respond to other antimicrobial drugs, we evaluated the resistance of MRSA isolates against different antibiotics. The standard procedures were followed for a culture of 250 skin swabs collected from diabetic foot patients. The phenotypic characteristics of 48 suspected S. aureus cultures were determined via microscopic examination, Gram staining, a coagulase test, a BBL™ Staphyloslide™ Latex test, a Staph ID 32 API system, and a Vitek 2 Compact system. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) was used to examine the protein profile of all isolates, and real-time PCR was then used to identify mecA and PVL virulence genes. S aureus isolates were tested using the Vitek 2 Compact for antimicrobial susceptibility using Gram-positive cards (GP71). Among the 48 bacterial isolates tested, 45 (93.75%), 42 (87.5%), and 46 (95.83%) were positive in tube coagulase, the Staph ID 32 API system, and the Vitek 2 Compact system, respectively. We correctly identified all suspected S. aureus isolates (100%) via MALDI-TOF MS with a score value ≥2.00 and differentiated them into 22/48 MRSA (45.83%) and 26/48 MSSA (54.17%) isolates. A higher peak intensity at masses of 5530 Da, 6580 Da, 6710 Da, and 6820 Da was detected in MRSA, but not in MSSA. All MRSA isolates tested positive for the mecA gene, while all isolates tested negative for the PVL gene. The antibiotic susceptibility results showed that 22 (100%), 20 (90.91%), 19 (86.36%), 18 (81.82%), 17 (77.27%), 15 (68.18%), 13 (59.1%), and 12 (54.55%) MRSA strains were resistant to cefoxitin, daptomycin, erythromycin, benzylpenicillin, ciprofloxacin, oxacillin, and clindamycin, respectively. In contrast, all MRSA strains were extremely susceptible (100%) to linezolid, nitrofurantoin, quinupristin–dalfopristin, tigecycline, and vancomycin. Moreover, 20 (90.91%), 18 (81.82%), and 17 (77.27%) of the MRSA strains exhibited high sensitivity against rifampin, trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole, and gentamicin, respectively. In DFIs, MALDI-TOF MS is a powerful and accurate method of identifying and distinguishing both MRSA and MSSA isolates. A high level of antimicrobial resistance was found in MRSA isolates, and antibiotic therapy based on antibiotic susceptibility patterns is essential for a successful outcome.
Feature Extraction of Bearing Weak Fault Based on Sparse Coding Theory and Adaptive EWT
Authors: Chen Qing , Zheng Sheng , Wu Xing , Liu Tao
Published: October 2022

In industry, early fault signals of rolling bearings are submerged in strong background noise, causing a low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and difficult diagnosis. This paper proposes a fault feature extraction method based on an optimized Laplacian wavelet dictionary (LWD) and the feature symbol search (FSS) algorithm to extract early fault characteristic frequencies of bearings under low SNR. As the morphological parameters of the Laplace wavelet dictionary and sparse coefficients are not easy to obtain, this method uses the adaptive empirical wavelet transform (AEWT) to determine the morphological parameters of the Laplace wavelet. Firstly, AEWT is applied to obtain the different frequency components, and the combination index is utilized for optimal component selection. Then, the morphological parameters of LWD are determined by AEWT processing, by which the overcomplete dictionary that best matches the signal can be obtained. Finally, the optimal sparse representation of the component signal in the dictionary is calculated by FSS, which helps to achieve sparse denoising and enhance the impact features. The effectiveness of the method is verified by simulation. The effectiveness and advantages of LWDFSS-AEWT are verified by experiment in comparison with methods such as fast spectral kurtosis (FSK), correlation filtering (CF), shift-invariant sparse coding (SISC), base pursuit denoising (BPDN) and wavelet packet transform Kurtogram (WPT Kurtogram).
Diagnostic Limitations and Aspects of the Lumbosacral Transitional Vertebrae (LSTV)
Authors: Landauer Franz , Trieb Klemens
Published: October 2022

The regeneration of an intervertebral disc can only be successful if the cause of the degeneration is known and eliminated. The lumbosacral transitional vertebrae (LSTV) offer itself as a model for IVD (intervertebral disc) regeneration. The aim of this work is to support this statement. In our scoliosis outpatient clinic, 1482 patients were radiologically examined, and ambiguous lumbosacral junction underwent MRI examination. Patients with Castellvi classification type II–IV were included and the results are compared with the current literature in PubMed (12 October 2022). The LSTV are discussed as a possible IVD model. A total of 115 patients were diagnosed with LSTV Castellvi type II–IV. A Castellvi distribution type IIA (n-55), IIB (n-24), IIIA (n-20), IIIB (n-10) and IV (n-6) can be found. In all, 64 patients (55.7%) reported recurrent low-back pain (LBP). Scoliosis (Cobb angle >10°) was also confirmed in 72 patients (58 female and 14 male) and 56 (75.7%) had unilateral pathology. The wide variation in the literature regarding the prevalence of the LSTV (4.6–35.6%) is reasoned by the doubtful diagnosis of Castellvi type I. The LSTV present segments with reduced to absent mobility and at the same time leads to overload of the adjacent segments. This possibility of differentiation is seen as the potential for a spinal model.
Agrobacterium tumefaciens-Mediated Gene Transfer in a Major Human Skin Commensal Fungus, Malassezia globosa
Authors: Cho Otomi , Matsumoto Yasuhiko , Yamada Tsuyoshi , Sugita Takashi
Published: October 2022

Although the fungal microbiome in human skin mainly comprises lipophilic yeasts, including Malassezia species, these microorganisms can cause various dermatitis conditions, including pityriasis versicolor, seborrheic dermatitis, folliculitis, and atopic dermatitis, depending on the host condition. Both Malassezia globosa and Malassezia restricta are major species implicated in Malassezia-related dermatitis. However, the pathogenicity of these microorganisms has not been revealed at the genetic level owing to the lack of a genetic recombination system. Therefore, we developed a gene recombination system for M. globosa using Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated gene transfer of the target gene FKB1, which encodes the FKBP12 protein that binds the calcineurin inhibitor tacrolimus. The wild-type strain of M. globosa was sensitive to tacrolimus, whereas the FKB1 deletion mutant was resistant to tacrolimus. Reintroduction of FKB1 into the FKB1 deletion mutant restored wild-type levels of susceptibility to tacrolimus. Moreover, an FKB1-eGFP fusion gene was generated and expression of this fusion protein was observed in the cytoplasm. This newly developed gene recombination system for M. globosa will help further our understanding of the pathogenesis of M. globosa-related dermatitis at the genetic level.
Tuning the Nonlinear Optical Properties of Quantum Dot by Noise-Anharmonicity Interaction
Authors: Roy Debi , Arif Sk. Md. , Datta Swarnab , Ghosh Manas
Published: October 2022

Current inspection rigorously explores the tuning of a few relevant nonlinear optical (NLO)properties of GaAs quantum dot (QD) under the stewardship of Gaussian noise-anharmonicity interplay. The NLO properties explored are total optical absorption coefficient (TOAC), total optical refractive index change (TORIC), nonlinear optical rectification (NOR), second harmonic generation (SHG), third harmonic generation (THG), DC-Kerr effect (DCKE), electro-absorption coefficient (EAC), group index (GI)and optical gain (OG). The route of application of noise (additive/multiplicative) to the QD, as well as the symmetry (odd/even) of the anharmonicity, influence the aforesaid NLO properties. These NLO properties exhibit steadfast growth, steadfast fall, maximization, minimization and saturation. The outcomes of the inspection appear to be quite pertinent in the context of the immense technological demand of QD, taking into account the combined impact of anharmonicity and noise.
Atomic Structure of Nd9+ for Highly Charged Ion Clocks
Authors: Yu Yanmei , Pan Duo , Chen Shaolong , Arora Bindiya , Guan Hua , Gao Kelin , Chen Jingbiao
Published: October 2022

The energy levels arising from the electronic orbital 5p−4f crossing between the ground 5p24f and excited 5p4f2 configurations in the Nd9+ ion are investigated by using high-accuracy relativistic ab initio calculations. The accurate atomic data of the lifetime, gJ factor, electric quadrupole moment, and hyperfine structure of the magnetic dipole are also presented. The long-lived states that are suitable for making narrow-linewidth (milli-Hz) clock lines are found. Dominant systematics caused by stray electromagnetic interactions in an experiment and the coefficients of the relativistic sensitivityto variation of the fine-structure constant α and of the Lorentz invariance violation are evaluated, thus validating that the Nd9+ ion can be a new candidate for high-resolution spectroscopy and precision fundamental studies for probing new physics beyond the Standard Model.
Explaining Intrusion Detection-Based Convolutional Neural Networks Using Shapley Additive Explanations (SHAP)
Authors: Younisse Remah , Ahmad Ashraf , Abu Al-Haija Qasem
Published: October 2022

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) models have become essential tools used in many critical systems to make significant decisions; the decisions taken by these models need to be trusted and explained on many occasions. On the other hand, the performance of different ML and AI models varies with the same used dataset. Sometimes, developers have tried to use multiple models before deciding which model should be used without understanding the reasons behind this variance in performance. Explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) models have presented an explanation for the models’ performance based on highlighting the features that the model considered necessary while making the decision. This work presents an analytical approach to studying the density functions for intrusion detection dataset features. The study explains how and why these features are essential during the XAI process. We aim, in this study, to explain XAI behavior to add an extra layer of explainability. The density function analysis presented in this paper adds a deeper understanding of the importance of features in different AI models. Specifically, we present a method to explain the results of SHAP (Shapley additive explanations) for different machine learning models based on the feature data’s KDE (kernel density estimation) plots. We also survey the specifications of dataset features that can perform better for convolutional neural networks (CNN) based models.
3D-Printed Hybrid Collagen/GelMA Hydrogels for Tissue Engineering Applications
Authors: Nagaraj Anushree , Etxeberria Alaitz Etxabide , Naffa Rafea , Zidan Ghada , Seyfoddin Ali
Published: October 2022

Bioprinting is an emerging technology involved in the fabrication of three-dimensional tissue constructs for the repair and regeneration of various tissues and organs. Collagen, a natural protein found abundantly in the extracellular matrix of several tissues, can be extracted from collagen-rich tissues of animals such as sheep, cows, rats, pigs, horses, birds, and marine animals. However, due to the poor printability of collagen bioinks, biocompatible collagen scaffolds that mimic the extracellular matrix (ECM) are difficult to fabricate using bioprinting techniques. Gelatin methacrylate (GelMA), a semi-synthetic polymer with tunable physical and chemical properties, has been found to be a promising biomaterial in various bioprinting applications. The printability of collagen can be improved by combining it with semi-synthetic polymers such as GelMA to develop hybrid hydrogels. Such hybrid hydrogels printed have also been identified to have enhanced mechanical properties. Hybrid GelMA meshes have not previously been prepared with collagen from ovine sources. This study provides a novel comparison between the properties of hybrid meshes with ovine skin and bovine hide collagen. GelMA (8% w/v) was integrated with three different concentrations (0.5%, 1%, and 2%) of bovine and ovine collagen forming hybrid hydrogels inks that were printed into meshes with enhanced properties. The maximum percentage of collagen suitable for integration with GelMA, forming hybrid hydrogels with a stable degradation rate was 1%. The water-soluble nature of ovine collagen promoted faster degradation of the hybrid meshes, although the structural crosslinking was identified to be higher than bovine hybrid meshes. The 1% bovine collagen hybrid meshes stood out in terms of their stable degradation rates.
Interferon Signaling in the Endometrium and in Endometriosis
Authors: Park Yuri , Han Sang Jun
Published: October 2022

Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent inflammatory disease that develops in reproductive-aged women who experience pelvic pain and infertility. Even though endometriosis is not a new disease, its molecular etiology has not been clearly elucidated. Defects in the immune system might be one of the factors that promote endometriosis progression. For example, elevated levels of proinflammatory cytokines are associated with endometriosis. Interferon is one of the cytokines that is elevated in endometriotic tissues compared with normal endometrium. Therefore, high interferon levels play a crucial role in endometriosis progression. In addition to endometriosis, however, interferon has a critical role in endometrial function, particularly in the initiation and maintenance of pregnancy. Therefore, this review describes the double-edged sword of interferon signaling in normal endometrial function versus endometriosis progression and also discusses interferon targeting as a new nonhormonal therapy for endometriosis. This approach may increase the efficacy of endometriosis treatment and reduce the adverse effects associated with current hormonal therapy for this disease.
Alternative Energy Potential and Conversion Efficiency of Biomass into Target Biofuels: A Case Study in Ethiopian Sugar Industry- Wonji-Shoa
Authors: Sharew Shumet , Montastruc Ludovic , Yimam Abubeker , Negny Stephane , Ferrasse Jean-Henry
Published: October 2022

Global energy security relies on fossil-based resources that are affiliated with the source of global warming, apart from punches of political and economic instabilities. Biomass is a promising alternative carbonaceous feedstock used for the production of clean energy that could have the potential to substitute for fossil fuels. This study aims to present a conceptual design that considers the criteria to identify the upper theoretical limits of biomass conversion, thus providing the potential approach to the conversion of three biomass (by-products: dry molasses, dry bagasse, and dry filter cake) through gasification, in order to contribute the biomass carbon-capturing by the model assessment of stoichiometric mass conversion and energy efficiency indicators into simple thermodynamic energy vectors, such as alcohols, alkanes, and syngas (a mixture of carbon monoxide and hydrogen). Modeling plays up the importance of stoichiometric efficiency of biomass conversion with the supply of oxygen and hydrogen. This realizes that the multi-product diversification of feedstock into syngas, hydrocarbons, and alcohol through integrated process schemes could have the potential to fill the energy gap and help to manage environmental load. In regard to biomass conversion results, the mass conversion and energy conversion efficiencies of dry bagasse have better conversion potential than molasses and F. cake (% mass conversion = 129 in syngas, 54.4 in alkane, and 43.4 in alcohol; % energy conversion = 94.3 in syngas and 93.3 in alkane and alcohol).
Myogenetic Oligodeoxynucleotides as Anti-Nucleolin Aptamers Inhibit the Growth of Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma Cells
Authors: Nohira Naoki , Shinji Sayaka , Nakamura Shunichi , Nihashi Yuma , Shimosato Takeshi , Takaya Tomohide
Published: October 2022

Embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma (ERMS) is the muscle-derived tumor retaining myogenic ability. iSN04 and AS1411, which are myogenetic oligodeoxynucleotides (myoDNs) serving as anti-nucleolin aptamers, have been reported to inhibit the proliferation and induce the differentiation of myoblasts. The present study investigated the effects of iSN04 and AS1411 in vitro on the growth of multiple patient-derived ERMS cell lines, ERMS1, KYM1, and RD. RT-PCR and immunostaining revealed that nucleolin was abundantly expressed and localized in nucleoplasm and nucleoli in all ERMS cell lines, similar to myoblasts. Both iSN04 and AS1411 at final concentrations of 10–30 μM significantly decreased the number of all ERMS cells; however, their optimal conditions were different among the cell lines. In all ERMS cell lines, iSN04 at a final concentration of 10 μM markedly reduced the ratio of EdU+ cells, indicating the inhibition of cell proliferation. Quantitative RT-PCR or immunostaining of phosphorylated histone H3 and myosin heavy chain demonstrated that iSN04 suppressed the cell cycle and partially promoted myogenesis but did not induce apoptosis in ERMS cells. Finally, both iSN04 and AS1411 at final concentrations of 10–30 μM disrupted the formation and outgrowth of RD tumorspheres in three-dimensional culture mimicking in vivo tumorigenesis. In conclusion, ERMS cells expressed nucleolin, and their growth was inhibited by the anti-nucleolin aptamers, iSN04 and AS1411, which modulates several cell cycle-related and myogenic gene expression. The present study provides evidence that anti-nucleolin aptamers can be used as nucleic acid drugs for chemotherapy against ERMS.
Combined DiI and Antibody Labeling Reveals Complex Dysgenesis of Hippocampal Dendritic Spines in a Mouse Model of Fragile X Syndrome
Authors: Speranza Luisa , Filiz Kardelen Dalım , Goebel Sarah , Perrone-Capano Carla , Pulcrano Salvatore , Volpicelli Floriana , Francesconi Anna
Published: October 2022

Structural, functional, and molecular alterations in excitatory spines are a common hallmark of many neurodevelopmental disorders including intellectual disability and autism. Here, we describe an optimized methodology, based on combined use of DiI and immunofluorescence, for rapid and sensitive characterization of the structure and composition of spines in native brain tissue. We successfully demonstrate the applicability of this approach by examining the properties of hippocampal spines in juvenile Fmr1 KO mice, a mouse model of Fragile X Syndrome. We find that mutant mice display pervasive dysgenesis of spines evidenced by an overabundance of both abnormally elongated thin spines and cup-shaped spines, in combination with reduced density of mushroom spines. We further find that mushroom spines expressing the actin-binding protein Synaptopodin—a marker for spine apparatus—are more prevalent in mutant mice. Previous work identified spines with Synaptopodin/spine apparatus as the locus of mGluR-LTD, which is abnormally elevated in Fmr1 KO mice. Altogether, our data suggest this enhancement may be linked to the preponderance of this subset of spines in the mutant. Overall, these findings demonstrate the sensitivity and versatility of the optimized methodology by uncovering a novel facet of spine dysgenesis in Fmr1 KO mice.
Sirtuin 7 Inhibitor Attenuates Colonic Mucosal Immune Activation in Mice—Potential Therapeutic Target in Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Kim Sanghyun , Byun Junhyoung , Jung Semyung , Kim Byoungjae , Lee Kangwon , Jeon Hanjo , Lee Jaemin , Choi Hyuksoon , Kim Eunsun , Jeen Yoontae , Lee Hongsik , Chun Hoonjai , Keum Bora , Kim Taehoon
Published: October 2022

Accumulating evidence has shown that sirtuin 7 (SIRT7), a mediator of various cellular activities, plays an important role in the pathogenesis of various immune-mediated inflammatory disorders. However, information remains limited regarding the role of SIRT7 in intestinal inflammation. We used a murine colitis model to investigate the role of SIRT7 in intestinal immunity and whether SIRT7 inhibitors could attenuate the intestinal inflammatory response. Mice were divided into three groups: control, colitis-induced, and SIRT7-inhibitor-treated. A colitis mouse model was established by intraperitoneal injection and nasal challenge with ovalbumin, as in our previous study. Quantitative analyses of inflammatory cytokines and SIRT7 levels in the colonic mucosa were performed to compare the changes in inflammatory responses between the three groups. The colitis group showed increased levels of inflammatory cytokines and SIRT7 in the colonic mucosa. The inflammatory reaction was suppressed in colitis-induced mice administered the SIRT7 inhibitor. The qRT-PCR results showed normalization of inflammatory cytokines in the SIRT7 inhibitor-treated group. Histologic study revealed a decrease in the extent of inflammation after SIRT7 treatment. We also observed that the degree of clinical inflammation was improved in SIRT7-treated mice. Our study demonstrated that SIRT7 inhibition attenuated the inflammatory response in the colon of mice, suggesting a possible role for SIRT7 in the pathogenesis of immune-mediated intestinal inflammation.
Stable Gastric Pentadecapeptide BPC 157 as Useful Cytoprotective Peptide Therapy in the Heart Disturbances, Myocardial Infarction, Heart Failure, Pulmonary Hypertension, Arrhythmias, and Thrombosis Presentation
Authors: Sikiric Predrag , Udovicic Mario , Barisic Ivan , Balenovic Diana , Zivanovic Posilovic Gordana , Strinic Dean , Uzun Sandra , Sikiric Suncana , Krezic Ivan , Zizek Helena , Yago Haidi , Gojkovic Slaven , Smoday Ivan Maria , Kalogjera Luka , Vranes Hrvoje , Sola Marija , Strbe Sanja , Koprivanac Antun , Premuzic Mestrovic Ivica , Mestrovic Tomislav , Pavic Predrag , Skrtic Anita , Blagaic Alenka Boban , Lovric Bencic Martina , Seiwerth Sven
Published: October 2022

In heart disturbances, stable gastric pentadecapeptide BPC 157 especial therapy effects combine the therapy of myocardial infarction, heart failure, pulmonary hypertension arrhythmias, and thrombosis prevention and reversal. The shared therapy effect occurred as part of its even larger cytoprotection (cardioprotection) therapy effect (direct epithelial cell protection; direct endothelium cell protection) that BPC 157 exerts as a novel cytoprotection mediator, which is native and stable in human gastric juice, as well as easily applicable. Accordingly, there is interaction with many molecular pathways, combining maintained endothelium function and maintained thrombocytes function, which counteracted thrombocytopenia in rats that underwent major vessel occlusion and deep vein thrombosis and counteracted thrombosis in all vascular studies; the coagulation pathways were not affected. These appeared as having modulatory effects on NO-system (NO-release, NOS-inhibition, NO-over-stimulation all affected), controlling vasomotor tone and the activation of the Src-Caveolin-1-eNOS pathway and modulatory effects on the prostaglandins system (BPC 157 counteracted NSAIDs toxicity, counteracted bleeding, thrombocytopenia, and in particular, leaky gut syndrome). As an essential novelty noted in the vascular studies, there was the activation of the collateral pathways. This might be the upgrading of the minor vessel to take over the function of the disabled major vessel, competing with and counteracting the Virchow triad circumstances devastatingly present, making possible the recruitment of collateral blood vessels, compensating vessel occlusion and reestablishing the blood flow or bypassing the occluded or ruptured vessel. As a part of the counteraction of the severe vessel and multiorgan failure syndrome, counteracted were the brain, lung, liver, kidney, gastrointestinal lesions, and in particular, the counteraction of the heart arrhythmias and infarction.
Recent Progress and Challenges on the Microfluidic Assay of Pathogenic Bacteria Using Biosensor Technology
Authors: Bahavarnia Farnaz , Hasanzadeh Mohammad , Sadighbayan Deniz , Seidi Farzad
Published: October 2022

Microfluidic technology is one of the new technologies that has been able to take advantage of the specific properties of micro and nanoliters, and by reducing the costs and duration of tests, it has been widely used in research and treatment in biology and medicine. Different materials are often processed into miniaturized chips containing channels and chambers within the microscale range. This review (containing 117 references) demonstrates the significance and application of nanofluidic biosensing of various pathogenic bacteria. The microfluidic application devices integrated with bioreceptors and advanced nanomaterials, including hyperbranched nano-polymers, carbon-based nanomaterials, hydrogels, and noble metal, was also investigated. In the present review, microfluid methods for the sensitive and selective recognition of photogenic bacteria in various biological matrices are surveyed. Further, the advantages and limitations of recognition methods on the performance and efficiency of microfluidic-based biosensing of photogenic bacteria are critically investigated. Finally, the future perspectives, research opportunities, potential, and prospects on the diagnosis of disease related to pathogenic bacteria based on microfluidic analysis of photogenic bacteria are provided.