bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seasonal characteristics of PM1, PM2.5, and PM10 over Varanasi during 2019–2020
Authors: Chauhan Prashant Kumar , Kumar Akhilesh , Pratap Vineet , Singh Abhay Kumar
Published: August 2022

Particulate matter (PM) concentrations and aerosol optical depth (AOD) are measured and correlated simultaneously using a high-volume sampler and a MICROTOPS-II Sunphotometer, respectively. The present work deals with the characteristics of particulate matter (PM1, PM2.5, and PM10) over Varanasi, from April 2019 to March 2020. Daily variation, as well as seasonal variation, reveals the dominancy of fine-mode particles over the Varanasi region in the winter season and the dominancy of coarse-mode particles in the summer season, which was further confirmed by calculating the ratio between particulate matter (PM1/PM10 and PM2.5/PM10). This ratio was discovered to be lowest in the summer and highest in the winter. Annual mean concentrations of PM1, PM2.5, and PM10 are found to be 93.91, 111.34, and 180.70 μgm−3, respectively. The seasonal variation shows relatively a higher concentration of PM1, PM2.5, and PM10 in the winter season, which may be due to stable meteorological conditions and increased biomass burning in winter. Diurnal and seasonal variations in AOD were also studied during this period. A large and small value of AOD represents the dominancy of fine particles over coarse particles. At 500 nm, maximum (1.17) and minimum (0.44) AODs were measured in December and August of 2019, respectively. There was a statistically significant correlation between PM particles (PM1, PM2.5, and PM10) and AOD. Elemental analysis shows that fluorine and carbon are the major elements that were observed in selected samples during the post-monsoon and winter season using SEM-EDX analysis.
Mining alleles for tar spot complex resistance from CIMMYT's maize Germplasm Bank
Authors: Willcox Martha C. , Burgueño Juan A. , Jeffers Daniel , Rodriguez-Chanona Enrique , Guadarrama-Espinoza Armando , Kehel Zakaria , Chepetla Daniel , Shrestha Rosemary , Swarts Kelly , Buckler Edward S. , Hearne Sarah , Chen Charles
Published: August 2022

The tar spot complex (TSC) is a devastating disease of maize (Zea mays L.), occurring in 17 countries throughout Central, South, and North America and the Caribbean, and can cause grain yield losses of up to 80%. As yield losses from the disease continue to intensify in Central America, Phyllachora maydis, one of the causal pathogens of TSC, was first detected in the United States in 2015, and in 2020 in Ontario, Canada. Both the distribution and yield losses due to TSC are increasing, and there is a critical need to identify the genetic resources for TSC resistance. The Seeds of Discovery Initiative at CIMMYT has sought to combine next-generation sequencing technologies and phenotypic characterization to identify valuable alleles held in the CIMMYT Germplasm Bank for use in germplasm improvement programs. Individual landrace accessions of the “Breeders' Core Collection” were crossed to CIMMYT hybrids to form 918 unique accessions topcrosses (F1 families) which were evaluated during 2011 and 2012 for TSC disease reaction. A total of 16 associated SNP variants were identified for TSC foliar leaf damage resistance and increased grain yield. These variants were confirmed by evaluating the TSC reaction of previously untested selections of the larger F1 testcross population (4,471 accessions) based on the presence of identified favorable SNPs. We demonstrated the usefulness of mining for donor alleles in Germplasm Bank accessions for newly emerging diseases using genomic variation in landraces.
Reminiscence Therapy as a Potential Method to Improve Psychological Health and Quality of Life in Elderly Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients: A Randomized, Controlled Trial
Authors: Li Teng , Li Bin , Tan Lu , Lv Bo
Published: August 2022

Background

Reminiscence therapy mitigates psychological issues and improves the quality of life of cancer survivors. However, its role in elderly patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is unclear. Thus, we aimed to detect the effect of reminiscence therapy on anxiety, depression, and the quality of life of elderly patients with HCC.

Methods

In total, 106 elderly patients with HCC after resection were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to the reminiscence therapy group (N = 54) and control care group (N = 52) and then received intervention for 12 months. Anxiety and depression were evaluated by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) at baseline [Month (M) 0], 3 months (M3), 6 months (M6), 9 months (M9), and 12 months (M12). Meanwhile, quality of life was assessed using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer quality of life Questionnaire—Core 30 (QLQ-C30) at M0, M6, and M12.

Results

The HADS for anxiety score at M9 (6.8 ± 2.3 vs. 7.8 ± 2.4, P = 0.039) and M12 (6.6 ± 2.4 vs. 7.8 ± 2.6, P = 0.013) and the anxiety proportion at M12 (27.8% vs. 46.2%, P = 0.050) were reduced in the reminiscence therapy group compared with those in the control care group. Moreover, the HADS for depression score declined at M9 (6.6 ± 2.0 vs. 7.5 ± 2.2, P = 0.025) and M12 (6.3 ± 2.3 vs. 7.7 ± 2.6, P = 0.005), but the proportion of those with depression was not different at each visit (P > 0.05) in the reminiscence therapy group compared with that of the control care group. In addition, the QLQ-C30 global health status score increased at M6 (71.3 ± 12.8 vs. 66.3 ± 12.9, P = 0.048) and M12 (74.5 ± 12.9 vs. 68.2 ± 13.3, P = 0.014) in the reminiscence therapy group compared to that in the control care group.

Conclusion

Reminiscence therapy effectively mitigates anxiety and depression and improves the quality of life of elderly patients with HCC.
Classification of coronoid process fractures: A pending question
Authors: Wang Daofeng , Li Jiantao , Xu Gaoxiang , Zhang Wupeng , Li Li , Tang Peifu , Zhang Licheng
Published: August 2022

Ulna coronoid fracture is a complicated elbow injury. Comprehensive classification of coronoid fracture can assist diagnosis, guide treatment, and improve prognosis. Existing coronoid fracture classifications are insufficient to interpret all fracture patterns. The coronoid fracture classification is associated with elbow-specific trauma patterns. Coronoid fractures are often associated with other elbow injuries, commonly with radial head fractures, which makes the clinical strategies inconsistent and prognosis poor. The current fracture classifications do not contain information about combined injuries. Preservation of ulnohumeral joint contact after trauma is critical to elbow mechanical and kinematic stability. Important fracture types for treatment include terrible-triad injuries and anteromedial facet fractures. Open reduction and internal fixation of these two fractures should be conducted when marked displacement of the fragment, elbow instability under stress, and complicated associated injuries. The current surgical tactics based on classifications are still controversial.
Surgical treatment strategy for recurrent parastomal hernia: Experiences from 17 cases
Authors: Luan Li , Liu Qiaonan , Cui Changjin , Cheng Yugang , Zhang Guangyong , Li Bo
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the surgical treatment strategy of recurrent parastomal hernia (PH) and show its safety, feasibility, and outcomes at a mid-term follow-up.

Methods

A total of 17 cases of recurrent PH treated at our hospital between January 2016 and October 2021 were included in this retrospective analysis. Patient characteristics were recorded, and the classification of PH, operative time, intraoperative blood loss, hernia repair techniques, follow-up times, complications, as well as recurrence were compared and analyzed.

Results

Altogether, 17 patients with recurrent PH underwent successful hernia repair via surgical treatment at The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University and Shandong University Qilu Hospital. No recurrence or severe complications were noted during follow-ups (mean 32.8 ± 3.77 [range 3–68] months).

Conclusions

For recurrent PH, selecting a suitable repair approach based on intraperitoneal conditions such as infection, abdominal adhesions, or the length of the bowel loop, can help in achieving better therapeutic results. The lap-redo + Sugarbaker technique is worth recommending when the appropriate conditions are met.
Endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery for non-functioning pituitary adenoma: Learning curve and surgical results in a prospective series during initial experience
Authors: Boetto Julien , Joitescu Irina , Raingeard Isabelle , Ng Sam , Le Corre Marine , Lonjon Nicolas , Crampette Louis , Favier Valentin
Published: August 2022

Background

To report the initial experience of surgery for non-functioning pituitary adenoma (NFPA) from a neurosurgeon in a dedicated residency training endoscopic transsphenoidal (ETS) program, and detail the surgical and clinical outcomes during this period.

Methods

A prospective series of all patients operated for NFPA, using an ETS approach, during the three first years of experience of a newly board-certified neurosurgeon was analysed. Clinical, radiological and peri-operative data were collected. Extent of resection (EOR) was determined by formal volumetric analysis. Impact of the learning curve and predictive factors of gross total resection (GTR) were determined.

Results

Fifty-three patients with NFPA were included in this prospective cohort which was divided in two periods of time (“First period”: 30 first cases, and “second period”: 23 following cases). Baseline characteristics of the patients in the two periods were similar. Overall occurrence of complication was 22% and was not significantly different in the two periods of time. No patient had severe neurological complication. Gross total resection was achieved in 70% of patients. Mean Extent of resection was 96%. In a multiple linear regression model, a higher EOR was positively correlated with experience (p = 0.018) and negatively correlated with Knosp Score equal to 4 (p < 0.001). Predictive factors for GTR were Higher Knosp grade (p = 0,01), higher pre-operative volume (p = 0.03), and second period of time (p = 0.01).

Conclusion

NFPA surgery can be safe and efficient during the learning period. Dedicated intensive learning, careful patient selection and multidisciplinary work are key to shorten the learning curve and achieve satisfactory results.
Novel insertion/deletion polymorphisms and genetic features of the shadow of prion protein gene (SPRN) in dogs, a prion-resistant animal
Authors: Kim Yong-Chan , Kim Hyeon-Ho , Kim An-Dang , Jeong Byung-Hoon
Published: August 2022

Prion diseases are fatal infectious neurodegenerative disorders that are induced by misfolded prion protein (PrPSc). Previous studies have reported that the shadow of prion protein (Sho) encoded by the shadow of prion protein gene (SPRN) plays a critical role in stimulating the conversion process of normal PrP (PrPC) into PrPSc, and genetic polymorphisms of the SPRN gene are significantly related to susceptibility to prion diseases. Recent studies have reported that dogs show prion resistance, and there have been several attempts to identify resistance factors to prion diseases in dogs. However, there has been no study of the canine SPRN gene thus far. We investigated genetic polymorphisms of the canine SPRN gene in 201 dogs using amplicon sequencing and compared the number of SPRN polymorphisms among prion-related species. In addition, we performed multiple sequence alignments of the amino acid sequences of Sho among prion-related species by ClustalW and analyzed the 3D structure of Sho using AlphaFold. Furthermore, we assessed the protein–protein interaction of canine PrP with canine Sho carrying wild-type and mutant alleles using HawkDock. We found four novel insertion/deletion polymorphisms of the SPRN gene in 201 dogs and identified a significant difference in the number of SPRN polymorphisms between prion-susceptible and prion-resistant animals. In addition, Sho has two α-helixes linked with the coil. Furthermore, we found different binding complexes and binding free energies between canine Sho and PrP according to SPRN polymorphisms. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of canine SPRN polymorphisms.
Nowe słownictwo związane z jedzeniem – na materiale Obserwatorium Językowego UW. Próba rekonstrukcji struktury pola tematycznego
Authors: Łachnik Jarosław
Published: August 2022

The new lexis related to food: on the material of the Language Observatory
of the University of Warsaw. An attempt to reconstruct the structure of the
thematic fi eld. The aim of this paper is to analyse the thematic fi eld FOOD
created from new lexical units extracted from the dictionary of neologisms of the
Language Observatory of the University of Warsaw. The units will be assigned
to specifi c thematic sub-fi elds. The structure of the fi eld will be analysed. The
differences between two collections of vocabulary belonging to the fi eld FOOD,
i.e. vocabulary rooted in the Polish language and the most recent vocabulary,
will be identifi ed.
Switchgrass Establishment Can Ameliorate Soil Properties of the Abandoned Cropland in Northern China
Authors: Zhao Chunqiao , Hou Xincun , Guo Qiang , Yue Yuesen , Wu Juying , Cao Yawei , Wang Qinghai , Li Cui , Wang Zhengang , Fan Xifeng
Published: August 2022

The bioenergy crop switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) has been recognized as friendly to the soil of cultivated land depending on the previous land use types and management practices. However, the effects of switchgrass establishment on soil properties at a broader depth when it is harvested annually without any fertilization in northern China largely remain unknown. To explore the impacts of unfertilized switchgrass on soil physical and chemical properties, 0–100 cm soil samples were collected from 7-year cropland-to-switchgrass conversion and the bare land (control). The results showed that switchgrass establishment increased soil total and capillary porosity, CFU numbers of the microbial communities (fungi, bacteria, and actinomycetes), contents of microbial biomass (carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus), and water-soluble organic carbon, and decreased soil bulk density, mostly at 0–60 cm depths, compared to the control values. Notably, the annual harvest of switchgrass insignificantly increased soil total and available nitrogen contents and slightly reduced available phosphorus and potassium contents. In conclusion, long-term cropland conversion to unfertilized switchgrass could ameliorate soil properties and does not cause soil depletion. The output of this study could inspire governments and farmers to make large-scale use of switchgrass in the ecological restoration of abandoned cropland in north China.
Development of an Air-Recirculated Ventilation System for a Piglet House, Part 1: Analysis of Representative Problems through Field Experiment and Aerodynamic Analysis Using CFD Simulation for Evaluating Applicability of System
Authors: Kim Jun-gyu , Lee In-bok , Lee Sang-yeon , Park Se-jun , Jeong Deuk-young , Choi Young-bae , Decano-Valentin Cristina , Yeo Uk-hyeon
Published: August 2022

As the pig industry develops rapidly, various problems are appearing both inside and outside the pig houses. In particular, in the case of pig houses, it is difficult to solve the main problems even if automation and mechanization are applied with ICT technology. The main current issues are: (1) preventing infectious diseases amongst livestock, (2) reducing the emission of harmful gas and odors, (3) improving the growth environment inside the pig house, (4) reducing energy costs, (5) improving the farm management and operating system, and 6) improving the livestock product quality. Air recirculation technology can be applied as a technology that can solve these typical problems in the pig industry. An air-recirculated ventilation system can minimize the inflow of air from outdoors and recycle the internal thermal energy of the pig house. The air-recirculated ventilation system consists of (1) an air scrubber module, (2) external air-mixing module, (3) UV cleaning module, (4) solar heat module, and (5) air-distribution module. First, in this study, the field data were collected to analyze the main problems of the target piglet house for the application of the air-recirculated ventilation system. In addition, a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model was developed and validated for seasonal aerodynamic analysis. The applicability of the air-recirculated ventilation system was evaluated based on the CFD computed results for various environmental conditions. As a result of evaluating the internal environment according to the ventilation rates and external-air-mixing ratio of the air-recirculated ventilation system, the required ventilation rate and external air-mixing ratio to maintain the proper temperature and gas concentration were determined.
Influences of Dietary Vitamin E, Selenium-Enriched Yeast, and Soy Isoflavone Supplementation on Growth Performance, Antioxidant Capacity, Carcass Traits, Meat Quality and Gut Microbiota in Finishing Pigs
Authors: Zhu Cui , Yang Jingsen , Nie Xiaoyan , Wu Qiwen , Wang Li , Jiang Zongyong
Published: August 2022

This study investigated the effects of dietary compound antioxidants on growth performance, antioxidant capacity, carcass traits, meat quality, and gut microbiota in finishing pigs. A total of 36 barrows were randomly assigned to 2 treatments with 6 replicates. The pigs were fed with a basal diet (control) or the basal diet supplemented with 200 mg/kg vitamin E, 0.3 mg/kg selenium-enriched yeast, and 20 mg/kg soy isoflavone. Dietary compound antioxidants decreased the average daily feed intake (ADFI) and feed to gain ratio (F/G) at d 14–28 in finishing pigs (p < 0.05). The plasma total protein, urea nitrogen, triglyceride, and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations were decreased while the plasma glutathione (GSH) to glutathione oxidized (GSSG) ratio (GSH/GSSG) was increased by compound antioxidants (p < 0.05). Dietary compound antioxidants increased loin area and b* value at 45 min, decreased backfat thickness at last rib, and drip loss at 48 h (p < 0.05). The relative abundance of colonic Peptococcus at the genus level was increased and ileal Turicibacter_sp_H121 abundance at the species level was decreased by dietary compound antioxidants. Spearman analysis showed a significant negative correlation between the relative abundance of colonic Peptococcus and plasma MDA concentration and meat drip loss at 48 h. Collectively, dietary supplementation with compound antioxidants of vitamin E, selenium-enrich yeast, and soy isoflavone could improve feed efficiency and antioxidant capacity, and modify the backfat thickness and meat quality through modulation of the gut microbiota community.
A Study on the Estimations of the Tension of the Overhead Wires Using Data from Acceleration Sensors
Authors: Kim Jun-Hyeok , Joung Jong-Man , Lee Byung-Sung
Published: August 2022

One of the important tasks of the distribution system is to operate the distribution system in consideration of the safety. It is also important to minimize and prevent possible failures in the distribution system. In terms of overhead wires, it is necessary to measure the tension of it for the purpose of ensuring safety. However, it is difficult to install sensors for measuring the tension of the overhead wires in the field as there would be huge difficulties to re-install facilities such as existing wires after dismantling them. Thus, it is difficult to manage the risk of overhead wires through tension measurement. To solve and alleviate this problem, this paper proposed and verified a method of attaching an acceleration sensor that does not require dismantling or re-installation of existing facilities to the overhead wires and estimating the tension using the data measured from the sensors. As a result of the verification, it was confirmed that the estimated tension showed a significant level of accuracy with an average of 90.39%, and on the basis of this result, it is expected to contribute to safety management of overhead wires in the future.
Machine Learning Prediction of Turning Precision Using Optimized XGBoost Model
Authors: Wang Cheng-Chi , Kuo Ping-Huan , Chen Guan-Ying
Published: August 2022

The present study proposes a machine learning approach for optimizing turning parameters in such a way as to maximize the turning precision. The Taguchi method is first employed to optimize the turning parameters, and the experimental results are then used to train three machine learning models to predict the turning precision for any given values of the input parameters. The model which shows the best prediction performance (XGBoost) is further improved through the use of a synthetic minority over-sampling technique for regression with Gaussian noise (SMOGN) and four different optimization algorithms, including center particle swarm optimization (CPSO). Finally, the performances of the various models are evaluated and compared using the leave-one-out cross-validation technique. The experimental results show that the XGBoost model, combined with SMOGN and CPSO, provides the best performance, and is a useful tool for predicting the machining error of turning. The method can also reduce the cost of obtaining the optimized turning parameters corresponding with the predicted machining error.
A Hardware Security-Monitoring Architecture Based on Data Integrity and Control Flow Integrity for Embedded Systems
Authors: Hao Qiang , Zhang Zhun , Xu Dongdong , Wang Jiqing , Liu Jiakang , Zhang Jinlei , Ma Jinhui , Wang Xiang
Published: August 2022

As technology evolves, embedded systems access more networks and devices, which means more security threats. Existing security-monitoring methods with a single parameter (data or control flow) are not effective in detecting attackers tampering with the data or control flow of an embedded system. However, simply overlaying multiple security methods will result in excessive performance overhead for embedded systems. In this paper, we propose a novel hardware security-monitoring architecture that extracts DI (data integrity) digests and CFI (control flow integrity) tags to generate reference information when the program is offline. To monitor the indirect jumping behavior, this paper maps the legal target addresses into the bitmap, thus saving the search time. When the program is loaded, the reference information and the bitmap are safely loaded into the on-chip memory. The hardware monitoring module designed in this paper will check the DI summary and CFI tags in real time while executing the program. The architecture proposed in this paper has been implemented on the Xilinx Virtex 5 FPGA platform. Experimental results show that, compared with existing protection methods, the proposed approach in this paper can effectively detect multiple tampering-type attacks on the data and control flow of the embedded system, with a performance overhead of about 6%.
Numerical Study on Vortical Flow Structure and Performance Enhancement of Centrifugal Compressor Impeller
Authors: Hong Seongbin , Mugabi Jophous , Jeong Jae-Ho
Published: August 2022

The performance and efficiency of a centrifugal compressor are usually affected by the highly complex 3-dimensional flow structures which develop in the flow field of the compressor. Several experiments and research using numerical analysis have been reported, however, there are still many unknown physical phenomena that need to be studied, in order to optimize the design and improve the efficiency of turbomachines, especially those installed on hydrogen-powered fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). In this study, the 3-dimensional vortex structures were analyzed using the critical-point theory and the probabilistic definitions, for an air supply device mounted on the commercial hydrogen FCEVs. The behavior of the complex 3-dimensional vortex structures at the design flow rate and low flow rate were elucidated. A tip leakage vortex was observed to develop at the leading edge of the main blade at all flow rates, which caused interference to the splitter blade. At 60% of the design flow rate, a vortex breakdown occurred at the tip leakage vortex near the leading edge of the main blade, and a reverse flow at 50% chord length of the main blade’s suction surface. The boundary layer which developed at the leading edge of the main blade’s suction surface at all flow rates led to the creation of a hub separation vortex by interfering with the boundary layer developed at the hub surface as a result of the centrifugal force. In addition, the boundary layer developed at the hub and shroud surface created a horseshoe vortex as it moved downstream and interfered with the leading edge of the main blade and splitter blade. It was confirmed that the behavior of the tip leakage, hub separation, and horseshoe vortex structures determined the aerodynamic performance of the centrifugal compressor. The average pressure difference improved by 1.47% of the entire flow rate after optimizing the compressor design.
Sub-23 nm Particle Emissions from China-6 GDI Vehicle: Impacts of Drive Cycle and Ambient Temperature
Authors: Guo Dongdong , Ge Yunshan , Wang Xin , Liu Haixu , Su Sheng , Li Chunbo , Tao Tinghong
Published: August 2022

Both the EU and China are evaluating the feasibility of lowering the detection limit of particle number (PN) measurement to 10 nm in future legislations, making it necessary to better understand the sub-23 nm particle emission characteristics from state-of-the-art vehicles. In this study, solid PN emissions with a diameter larger than 10 nm and 23 nm (known as SPN10 and SPN23) were compared over the WLTC, RTS95, and a so-called “worst-case” real driving emission (RDE) cycle (highly dynamic/0 °C) using two certification-level particle number counters (PNCs) employing evaporation tube (ET) and catalytic stripper (CS) as volatile particle remover (VPR). The results show that SPN10 emissions were 31.7%, 27.8%, and 15.2% higher than SPN23 over the WLTC, RTS95, and laboratory RDE cycles. Sub-23 nm particles were almost not identified within the engine cold-start phase and tended to be a hot-running pollutant favored by aggressive driving styles (frequent accelerations and high engine loads), fuel-cut during decelerations, and long idles. Lower testing temperature delayed the light-off of catalyst and, therefore, significantly reduced the formation of sub-23 nm particles within the engine warm-up stage. Lowering the detection limit to 10 nm is deemed to provide more public health protection since it will guide manufacturers to pay more attention to vehicle hot-running emissions.
Bioimprinting as a Receptor for Detection of Kwakhurin
Authors: Sakamoto Seiichi , Minami Kei , Nuntawong Poomraphie , Yusakul Gorawit , Putalun Waraporn , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Fujii Shunsuke , Morimoto Satoshi
Published: August 2022

Bioimprinting was performed against ovalbumin (OVA) to confer its binding cavities for kwakhurin (Kwa), an isoflavonoid, produced solely by Pueraria candollei var. mirifica (P. candollei). The characterization of bioimprinted-OVA (biOVA), evaluated by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), revealed that it functioned as a specific receptor for Kwa. Using biOVA, two systems, i.e., an indirect competitive ELISA (icELISA) and the even simpler and more rapid competitive enzyme-linked bioimprinted-protein assay (cELBIA), were developed as novel techniques for the quantitative analysis of Kwa in P. candollei and its related products. The two analysis methods were found to have limits of detection (LOD) of 4.0 and 2.5 µg/mL, respectively. The high reliability of the developed icELISA and cELBIA using biOVA was also demonstrated by various validation analyses. Subsequently, bioimprinting was performed using eight other proteins to investigate them as candidate scaffolds for the generation of binding cavities for Kwa. Interestingly, two bioimprinted-IgG monoclonal antibodies (biMAbs) recognized Kwa, but their original binding affinity to hapten was lost. That is, the MAbs obtained a new binding ability to Kwa in exchange for their original binding affinity, raising the possibility that biMAb could be alternatively used as a probe for the quantitative analysis of Kwa as well as biOVA. This is the first report of small molecules recognition by MAbs used as proteins for bioimprinting.
Thiophosphate Analogs of Coenzyme A and Its Precursors—Synthesis, Stability, and Biomimetic Potential
Authors: Löcherer Christian , Tosun Elif , Backes Hannah , Jäschke Andres
Published: August 2022

Coenzyme A (CoA) is ubiquitous and essential for key cellular processes in any living organism. Primary degradation of CoA occurs by enzyme-mediated pyrophosphate hydrolysis intracellularly and extracellularly to form adenosine 3’,5’-diphosphate and 4’-phosphopantetheine (PPanSH). The latter can be recycled for intracellular synthesis of CoA. Impairments in the CoA biosynthetic pathway are linked to a severe form of neurodegeneration with brain iron accumulation for which no disease-modifying therapy is available. Currently, exogenous administration of PPanSH is examined as a therapeutic intervention. Here, we describe biosynthetic access to thiophosphate analogs of PPanSH, 3′-dephospho-CoA, and CoA. The stabilizing effect of thiophosphate modifications toward degradation by extracellular and peroxisomal enzymes was studied in vitro. Experiments in a CoA-deficient cell model suggest a biomimetic potential of the PPanSH thiophosphate analog PSPanSH (C1). According to our findings, the administration of PSPanSH may provide an alternative approach to support intracellular CoA-dependent pathways.
Plasma A2AR Measurement Can Help Physicians Identify Patients Suspected of Coronary Chronic Syndrome: A Pilot Study
Authors: Paganelli Franck , Cappiello Gabriel , Aliouane Soumeya , Kipson Nathalie , Criado Christine , Hamou Khadidja , Ntawanga Jehuel , Peroni Erika , Carreno Maria , Methlin Lucas , Mottola Giovanna , Fromonot Julien , Deharo Pierre , Gaudry Marine , Marlinge Marion , Guieu Régis , Ruf Jean
Published: August 2022

The evaluation of suspected coronary artery disease (CAD) in the medical community is challenging. Patients with suspected coronary chronic syndrome (CCS) are referred by the medical community to be assessed by specialists for the performance of noninvasive tests that have high rates of false positives and false negatives. While troponins are the gold standard for evaluate myocardial injuries, there is no biomarker to assess myocardial ischemia in patient populations with negative electrocardiography or without an increase in troponin level. A2A adenosine receptors control the coronary blood flow through its vasodilating properties. It has been shown that patients with CAD have a lower A2AR expression on peripheral blood mononuclear cells, suggesting a link between A2AR production and the severity of CAD. Herein, we present a new and innovative method of inhibition ELISA for A2AR in the plasma of patients who permit the evaluation of the amount of soluble A2AR. For this analysis, the total study sample was 54, including 31 patients with CAD with stenosis > 50% and a significant fractional flow reserve (FFR < 0.8) (Group 1) and 23 patients with normal or non-obstructive coronary arteries (stenosis < 50% and nonsignificant FFR > 0.8) (Group 2). The % inhibition (which is linked to the presence of soluble receptors) with the plasma of patients with FFR < 0.8 was significantly lower than that of patients with FFR > 0.8 (median [range]: 68% [20.7–86.9] vs. 83% [67–88.4]; p < 0.001). The ROC curve indicated a good sensitivity/specificity ratio with a cut off of 72.5% and an area under the curve of 0.87. In conclusion, a rapid ELISA to assess soluble A2AR in the plasma shows promise to screen patients suspected of having CAD.
Neutrophils and Neutrophil Extracellular Traps in Cardiovascular Disease: An Overview and Potential Therapeutic Approaches
Authors: Shirakawa Kohsuke , Sano Motoaki
Published: August 2022

Recent advances in pharmacotherapy have markedly improved the prognosis of cardiovascular disease (CVD) but have not completely conquered it. Therapies targeting the NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 inflammasome and its downstream cytokines have proven effective in the secondary prevention of cardiovascular events, suggesting that inflammation is a target for treating residual risk in CVD. Neutrophil-induced inflammation has long been recognized as important in the pathogenesis of CVD. Circadian rhythm-related and disease-specific microenvironment changes give rise to neutrophil diversity. Neutrophils are primed by various stimuli, such as chemokines, cytokines, and damage-related molecular patterns, and the activated neutrophils contribute to the inflammatory response in CVD through degranulation, phagocytosis, reactive oxygen species generation, and the release of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). In particular, NETs promote immunothrombosis through the interaction with vascular endothelial cells and platelets and are implicated in the development of various types of CVD, such as acute coronary syndrome, deep vein thrombosis, and heart failure. NETs are promising candidates for anti-inflammatory therapy in CVD, and their efficacy has already been demonstrated in various animal models of the disease; however, they have yet to be clinically applied in humans. This narrative review discusses the diversity and complexity of neutrophils in the trajectory of CVD, the therapeutic potential of targeting NETs, and the related clinical issues.
Exploiting Bacteria for Improving Hypoxemia of COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Trinchieri Vito , Marazzato Massimiliano , Ceccarelli Giancarlo , Lombardi Francesca , Piccirilli Alessandra , Santinelli Letizia , Maddaloni Luca , Vassalini Paolo , Mastroianni Claudio Maria , d’Ettorre Gabriella
Published: August 2022

Background: Although useful in the time-race against COVID-19, CPAP cannot provide oxygen over the physiological limits imposed by severe pulmonary impairments. In previous studies, we reported that the administration of the SLAB51 probiotics reduced risk of developing respiratory failure in severe COVID-19 patients through the activation of oxygen sparing mechanisms providing additional oxygen to organs critical for survival. Methods: This “real life” study is a retrospective analysis of SARS-CoV-2 infected patients with hypoxaemic acute respiratory failure secondary to COVID-19 pneumonia undergoing CPAP treatment. A group of patients managed with ad interim routinely used therapy (RUT) were compared to a second group treated with RUT associated with SLAB51 oral bacteriotherapy (OB). Results: At baseline, patients receiving SLAB51 showed significantly lower blood oxygenation than controls. An opposite condition was observed after 3 days of treatment, despite the significantly reduced amount of oxygen received by patients taking SLAB51. At 7 days, a lower prevalence of COVID-19 patients needing CPAP in the group taking probiotics was observed. The administration of SLAB51 is a complementary approach for ameliorating oxygenation conditions at the systemic level. Conclusion: This study proves that probiotic administration results in an additional boost in alleviating hypoxic conditions, permitting to limit on the use of CPAP and its contraindications.
Effects of a Phosphodiesterase inhibitor on the Browning of Adipose Tissue in Mice
Authors: Seo Da Hea , Shin Eugene , Lee Yong-ho , Park Se-Eun , Nam Ki Taek , Kim Jae-woo , Cha Bong-Soo
Published: August 2022

Cilostazol is a selective inhibitor of phosphodiesterase type 3 (PDE3) that increases intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), which plays a critical role in the development of the beige phenotype and the activation of its thermogenic program in white adipose tissue (WAT). We investigated the metabolic effects of PDE3B inhibition with cilostazol treatment in the adipose tissue of high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice. Seven-week-old male C57BL/6J mice were randomly assigned to either the cilostazol or control group. The control group was divided into two groups: the chow diet and HFD. The expression of uncoupling Protein 1 (UCP1) and other brown adipocyte markers was compared. In the HFD-fed cilostazol group, C57BL/6J mice displayed improvements in systemic metabolism, including improved glucose tolerance and lipid profile, but only modest effects on body weight were observed. In the visceral WAT of HFD-fed cilostazol-treated mice, cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA) signaling pathways were activated, resulting in the “browning” phenotype, smaller fat deposits, and enhanced mRNA expression of UCP1 and other brown adipocyte markers. PDE3B appears to be an important regulator of lipid metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and thermogenic programs in adipose tissues. An increase in intracellular cAMP via PDE3B inhibition with cilostazol treatment promoted the browning of visceral WAT.
Single and Repeated Exposure to Cannabidiol Differently Modulate BDNF Expression and Signaling in the Cortico-Striatal Brain Network
Authors: Mottarlini Francesca , Fumagalli Marco , Castillo-Díaz Fernando , Piazza Stefano , Targa Giorgia , Sangiovanni Enrico , Pacchetti Barbara , Sodergren Mikael H. , Dell’Agli Mario , Fumagalli Fabio , Caffino Lucia
Published: August 2022

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a phytocannabinoid contained in the Cannabis sativa plant, devoid of psychotomimetic effects but with a broad-spectrum pharmacological activity. Because of its pharmacological profile and its ability to counteract the psychoactive Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9THC), CBD may be a potential treatment for several psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. In this study, we performed a dose−response evaluation of CBD modulatory effects on BDNF, a neurotrophin subserving pleiotropic effects on the brain, focusing on the cortico-striatal pathway for its unique role in the brain trafficking of BDNF. Male adult rats were exposed to single and repeated CBD treatments at different dosing regimen (5, 15, and 30 mg/kg), to investigate the rapid modulation of the neurotrophin (1 h after the single treatment) as well as a potential drug-free time point (24 h after the repeated treatment). We show here, for the first time, that CBD can be found in the rat brain and, specifically, in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) following single or repeated exposure. In fact, we found that CBD is present in the mPFC of rats treated either acutely or repeatedly with the phytocannabinoid, with a clear dose−response profile. From a molecular standpoint, we found that single, but not repeated, CBD exposure upregulates BDNF in the mPFC, while the repeated exposure increased BDNF only in the striatum, with a slight decrease in the mPFC. Together, these data reveal a CBD dose-dependent and anatomically specific modulation of BDNF, which may be functionally relevant and may represent an added value for CBD as a supplement.
Integrated Analysis of Cortex Single-Cell Transcriptome and Serum Proteome Reveals the Novel Biomarkers in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Yu Qing-Shan , Feng Wan-Qing , Shi Lan-Lan , Niu Rui-Ze , Liu Jia
Published: August 2022

Blood-based proteomic analysis is a routine practice for detecting the biomarkers of human disease. The results obtained from blood alone cannot fully reflect the alterations of nerve cells, including neurons and glia cells, in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) brains. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate novel potential AD biomarker candidates, through an integrated multi-omics approach in AD. We propose a comprehensive strategy to identify high-confidence candidate biomarkers by integrating multi-omics data from AD, including single-nuclei RNA sequencing (snRNA-seq) datasets of the prefrontal and entorhinal cortices, as wells as serum proteomic datasets. We first quantified a total of 124,658 nuclei, 8 cell types, and 3701 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from snRNA-seq dataset of 30 human cortices, as well as 1291 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) from serum proteomic dataset of 11 individuals. Then, ten DEGs/DEPs (NEBL, CHSY3, STMN2, MARCKS, VIM, FGD4, EPB41L2, PLEKHG1, PTPRZ1, and PPP1R14A) were identified by integration analysis of snRNA-seq and proteomics data. Finally, four novel candidate biomarkers (NEBL, EPB41L2, FGD4, and MARCKS) for AD further stood out, according to bioinformatics analysis, and they were verified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) verification. These candidate biomarkers are related to the regulation process of the actin cytoskeleton, which is involved in the regulation of synaptic loss in the AD brain tissue. Collectively, this study identified novel cell type-related biomarkers for AD by integrating multi-omics datasets from brains and serum. Our findings provided new targets for the clinical treatment and prognosis of AD.
Psychosocial Interventions for Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis by the CADDRA Guidelines Work GROUP
Authors: Tourjman Valerie , Louis-Nascan Gill , Ahmed Ghalib , DuBow Anaïs , Côté Hubert , Daly Nadia , Daoud George , Espinet Stacey , Flood Joan , Gagnier-Marandola Emilie , Gignac Martin , Graziosi Gemma , Mansuri Zeeshan , Sadek Joseph
Published: August 2022

Multiple psychosocial interventions to treat ADHD symptoms have been developed and empirically tested. However, no clear recommendations exist regarding the utilization of these interventions for treating core ADHD symptoms across different populations. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis by the CADDRA Guidelines work Group was to generate such recommendations, using recent evidence. Randomized controlled trials (RCT) and meta-analyses (MA) from 2010 to 13 February 2020 were searched in PubMed, PsycINFO, EMBASE, EBM Reviews and CINAHL. Studies of populations with significant levels of comorbidities were excluded. Thirty-one studies were included in the qualitative synthesis (22 RCT, 9 MA) and 24 studies (19 RCT, 5 MA) were included in the quantitative synthesis. Using three-level meta-analyses to pool results of multiple observations from each RCT, as well as four-level meta-analyses to pool results from multiples outcomes and multiple studies of each MA, we generated recommendations using the GRADE approach for: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; Physical Exercise and Mind–Body intervention; Caregiver intervention; School-based and Executive intervention; and other interventions for core ADHD symptoms across Preschooler, Child, Adolescent and Adult populations. The evidence supports a recommendation for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for adults and Caregiver intervention for Children, but not for preschoolers. There were not enough data to provide recommendations for the other types of psychosocial interventions. Our results are in line with previous meta-analytic assessments; however, they provide a more in-depth assessment of the effect of psychosocial intervention on core ADHD symptoms.
Using RPA for Performance Monitoring of Dynamic SHM Applications
Authors: Atencio Edison , Komarizadehasl Sayedmilad , Lozano-Galant José Antonio , Aguilera Matías
Published: August 2022

Robotic Process Automation (RPA) is a source of growing applications in a number of industries both as an individual technology and as a complement to other technologies (such as Internet of Things (IoT)). RPA allows the automation of human activities on a computer, especially when these activities are repetitive and high in volume. RPA saves man-hours and increases the productive capacity of the processes. The application of RPA in civil engineering is still in its early stages, and there has been little work on the subject in the literature. This paper presents RPA technology, for the first time in the literature, as a long-term management, control, and auto fault correction process for a low-cost accelerometer that can be used in SHM applications. However, this process requires a significant number of man-hours to stay operational, given the architecture of its applications. With the application of an RPA implementation workflow formulated based on the Design Science Research Method (DSRM), the management and control of the data acquisition process of a low-cost accelerometer located on a structural column are automated and put into operation in this study. RPA also made it possible to automatically detect and notify users of errors in the process, restart the process, and bring the process back online every time errors occurred. In this way, an automated process was obtained that operated continually and freed up human labour.
Advanced BIM Application in Construction and Buildings
Authors: Lee Junbok
Published: August 2022

We are very happy that the Special Issue “Advanced BIM Application in Construction and Buildings” of Buildings has been published [...]
Analysis of the Ammonia Production Rates by Nitrogenase
Authors: Rapson Trevor D. , Wood Craig C.
Published: August 2022

Ammonia (NH3) is produced industrially by the Haber–Bosch process from dinitrogen (N2) and dihydrogen (H2) using high temperature and pressure with an iron catalyst. In contrast to the extreme conditions used in the Haber–Bosch process, biology has evolved nitrogenase enzymes, which operate at ambient temperature and pressure. In biological settings, nitrogenase requires large amounts of energy in the form of ATP, using at least 13 GJ ton−1 of ammonia. In 2016, Brown et al. reported ATP-free ammonia production by nitrogenase. This result led to optimism that the energy demands of nitrogenase could be reduced. More recent reports confirmed the ATP-free production of ammonia; however, the rates of reaction are at least an order of magnitude lower. A more detailed understanding of the role of ATP in nitrogenase catalysis is required to develop ATP-free catalytic systems with higher ammonia production rates. Finally, we calculated the theoretical maximal ammonia production rate by nitrogenase and compared it to currently used Haber–Bosch catalysts. Somewhat surprisingly, nitrogenase has a similar theoretical maximum rate to the Haber–Bosch catalysts; however, strategies need to be developed to allow the enzyme to maintain operation at its optimal rate.
The Use of Fibreglass Mesh in the Experimental Characterisation of Applied Coating Mortars
Authors: Travincas Rafael , Bellei Poliana , Torres Isabel , Flores-Colen Inês , Matias Gina , Silveira Dora
Published: August 2022

Mortars are still among the most used wall coatings, whether lime-based or cement-based or traditional and prepared in situ or pre-dosed. When these mortars are formulated and characterized, the influence of the substrate on their characteristics is not taken into account. To study the influence of the substrate on the mortar characteristics, it is necessary to apply the mortar on the substrate, and after its hardening process, to detach it, test it, and then compare its characteristics with those of standard specimens subjected to standard tests. The central problem focuses on detaching the mortar without damaging it, in order to obtain specimens suitable for testing. For this, a fibreglass mesh, positioned at the mortar–substrate interface, can be used to facilitate the detachment in the experimental program. The objective of the present study is to understand if the fibreglass mesh influences the characteristics of the detached mortar. The methodology adopted was as follows: mortars were applied to the substrates, both using the mesh (with the net positioned at the mortar–substrate interface) and without using the mesh, and after hardening, they were detached and tested; then, the independent sample t-test was used to evaluate the differences between the results obtained for the mortars applied with the mesh and without the mesh. As a result, it was concluded that the use of the mesh does not significantly influence the macrostructural properties studied. The relevance of the present study lies in the development of an experimental methodology that allows for the characterization of mortar’s behaviour after its application on the substrate, i.e., that enables the substrate’s influence to be considered in the formulation of each mortar.