bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exosomal and Non-Exosomal MicroRNAs: New Kids on the Block for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Syed Shahzad Nawaz , Brüne Bernhard
Published: April 2022

MicroRNAs have been projected as promising tools for diagnostic and prognostic purposes in cancer. More recently, they have been highlighted as RNA therapeutic targets for cancer therapy. Though miRs perform a generic function of post-transcriptional gene regulation, their utility in RNA therapeutics mostly relies on their biochemical nature and their assembly with other macromolecules. Release of extracellular miRs is broadly categorized into two different compositions, namely exosomal (extracellular vesicles) and non-exosomal. This nature of miRs not only affects the uptake into target cells but also poses a challenge and opportunity for RNA therapeutics in cancer. By virtue of their ability to act as mediators of intercellular communication in the tumor microenvironment, extracellular miRs perform both, depending upon the target cell and target landscape, pro- and anti-tumor functions. Tumor-derived miRs mostly perform pro-tumor functions, whereas host cell- or stroma-derived miRs are involved in anti-tumor activities. This review deals with the recent understanding of exosomal and non-exosomal miRs in the tumor microenvironment, as a tool for pro- and anti-tumor activity and prospective exploit options for cancer therapy.
The Gut Microbiome in Depression and Potential Benefit of Prebiotics, Probiotics and Synbiotics: A Systematic Review of Clinical Trials and Observational Studies
Authors: Alli Sauliha R. , Gorbovskaya Ilona , Liu Jonathan C. W. , Kolla Nathan J. , Brown Lisa , Müller Daniel J.
Published: April 2022

An emerging body of literature demonstrates differences in the gut microbiome (GMB) of patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) compared to healthy controls (HC), as well as the potential benefits of prebiotic, probiotic, and synbiotic treatment. We conducted a systematic review of 24 observational studies (n = 2817), and 19 interventional trials (n = 1119). We assessed alpha diversity, beta diversity, and taxa abundance changes in patients with MDD relative to HC, as well as the effect of prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics on depressive symptoms in individuals with clinical or subclinical depression. We observed no significant differences in alpha diversity but a significant difference in beta diversity between patients with MDD and HC. There were fluctuations in the abundance of specific taxa in patients with MDD relative to HC. Probiotic and synbiotic, but not prebiotic, treatment showed a modest benefit in reducing depressive symptoms in patients with MDD over four to nine weeks. The GMB profiles of patients with MDD differ significantly from HC, but further studies are needed to elucidate the benefits of prebiotic, probiotic and synbiotic treatments relative to antidepressants and over longer follow-up before these therapies are implemented into clinical practice.
Single-Cell RNA Sequencing for Plant Research: Insights and Possible Benefits
Authors: Bawa George , Liu Zhixin , Yu Xiaole , Qin Aizhi , Sun Xuwu
Published: April 2022

In recent years, advances in single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) technologies have continued to change our views on biological systems by increasing the spatiotemporal resolution of our analysis to single-cell resolution. Application of scRNA-seq to plants enables the comprehensive characterization of both common and rare cell types and cell states, uncovering new cell types and revealing how cell types relate to each other spatially and developmentally. This review provides an overview of scRNA-seq methodologies, highlights the application of scRNA-seq in plant science, justifies why scRNA-seq is a master player of sequencing, and explains the role of single-cell transcriptomics technologies in environmental stress adaptation, alongside the challenges and prospects of single-cell transcriptomics. Collectively, we put forward a central role of single-cell sequencing in plant research.
Discovery of Five New Ethylene-Forming Enzymes for Clean Production of Ethylene in E. coli
Authors: Cui Yixuan , Jiang Ying , Xiao Meng , Munir Muhammad Zeeshan , Riaz Sadaf , Rasul Faiz , Daroch Maurycy
Published: April 2022

Ethylene is an essential platform chemical with a conjugated double bond, which can produce many secondary chemical products through copolymerisation. At present, ethylene production is mainly from petroleum fractionation and cracking, which are unsustainable in the long term, and harmful to our environment. Therefore, a hot research field is seeking a cleaner method for ethylene production. Based on the model ethylene-forming enzyme (Efe) AAD16440.1 (6vp4.1.A) from Pseudomonas syringae pv. phaseolicol, we evaluated five putative Efe protein sequences using the data derived from phylogenetic analyses and the conservation of their catalytic structures. Then, pBAD expression frameworks were constructed, and relevant enzymes were expressed in E. coli BL21. Finally, enzymatic activity in vitro and in vivo was detected to demonstrate their catalytic activity. Our results show that the activity in vitro measured by the conversion of α-ketoglutarate was from 0.21–0.72 μmol ethylene/mg/min, which varied across the temperatures. In cells, the activity of the new Efes was 12.28–147.43 μmol/gDCW/h (DCW, dry cellular weight). Both results prove that all the five putative Efes could produce ethylene.
Resolution of Inflammation in Retinal Disorders: Briefly the State
Authors: Trotta Maria Consiglia , Gesualdo Carlo , Petrillo Francesco , Lepre Caterina Claudia , Della Corte Alberto , Cavasso Giancuomo , Maggiore Giulia , Hermenean Anca , Simonelli Francesca , D’Amico Michele , Rossi Settimio
Published: April 2022

The most frequent retinal diseases, such as diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration and posterior uveitis, are underlined by oxidative stress or aging-induced retinal inflammation, which contributes to vision impairing or loss. Resolution of inflammation is emerging as a critical phase able to counteract the inflammatory process leading to the progression of retinal damage. Particularly, pro-resolving mediators (PMs) play a key role in the modulation of inflammatory exudates and could be considered a new target to be investigated in different inflammatory-autoimmune pathologies. Here, we highlight the most recent studies concerning the role of the main PMs (lipoxins, resolvins, prtectins, maresins and annexins) in retinal inflammation, in order to collect the best evidence in the field of inflammatory retinal damage resolution and to propose novel pharmacological approaches in the management of the most common retinal diseases.
LncRNA SMARCD3-OT1 Promotes Muscle Hypertrophy and Fast-Twitch Fiber Transformation via Enhancing SMARCD3X4 Expression
Authors: Zhang Jing , Cai Bolin , Ma Manting , Kong Shaofen , Zhou Zhen , Zhang Xiquan , Nie Qinghua
Published: April 2022

Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) plays a crucial part in all kinds of life activities, especially in myogenesis. SMARCD3 (SWI/SNF-related, matrix-associated, actin-dependent regulator of chromatin, subfamily d, member 3) is a member of the SWI/SNF protein complex and was reported to be required for cell proliferation and myoblast differentiation. In this study, we identified a new lncRNA named SMARCD3-OT1 (SMARCD3overlappinglncRNA), which strongly regulated the development of myogenesis by improving the expression of SMARCD3X4 (SMARCD3transcripts4). We overexpressed and knockdown the expression of SMARCD3-OT1 and SMARCD3X4 to investigate their function on myoblast proliferation and differentiation. Cell experiments proved that SMARCD3-OT1 and SMARCD3X4 promoted myoblast proliferation through the CDKN1A pathway and improved differentiation of differentiated myoblasts through the MYOD pathway. Moreover, they upregulated the fast-twitch fiber-related genes and downregulated the slow-twitch fiber-related genes, which indicated that they facilitated the slow-twitch fiber to transform into the fast-twitch fiber. The animals’ experiments supported the results above, demonstrating that SMARCD3-OT1 could induce muscle hypertrophy and fast-twitch fiber transformation. In conclusion, SMARCD3-OT1 can improve the expression of SMARCD3X4, thus inducing muscle hypertrophy. In addition, SMARCD3-OT1 can facilitate slow-twitch fibers to transform into fast-twitch fibers.
Endothelial Cells Activated by Extracellular Histones Promote Foxp3+ Suppressive Treg Cells In Vitro
Authors: Arnaud Marine , Demonchy Jordane , Arrii Eden , Luperto Marta , Lion Julien , Fodil Sofiane , Pons Stéphanie , Mooney Nuala , Zafrani Lara
Published: April 2022

Histones are widely recognized as pro-inflammatory mediators upon their release from the nucleus into the extracellular space. However, their impact on endothelial cell immunogenicity is unknown. Endothelial cells, Human Microvascular Endothelial cells 1 (HMEC1), have been exposed to recombinant histones in order to study their effect on the endothelial phenotype. We then studied the differentiation of CD4+-T lymphocytes subpopulations after three days of interaction with endothelial cells in vitro and observed that histone-treated endothelial cells differentiate a suppressive FoxP3+ T regulator subpopulation that expressed Human Leucocyte Antigen DR (HLA-DR) and Cytotoxic T-Lymphocyte-Associated protein 4 (CTLA4). Toll-Like Receptor 4 (TLR4) inhibition significantly decreased the expansion of these Treg cells. Moreover, blockade of Interleukin (IL)-6 and Intercellular Adhesion Molecule (ICAM)-1 in cocultures significantly decreased the expansion of Tregs, suggesting an IL-6 and ICAM-1 dependent pathway. Thus, beyond their inflammatory effects, extracellular histones may induce an increase of immunosuppressive Treg population via their action on endothelial cells. Further studies are needed to evaluate the impact on immunosuppression of an increase of peripheral suppressive Treg via endothelial cell activation by histones in vivo.
Alleviation of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Enhances Human Corneal Epithelial Cell Viability under Hyperosmotic Conditions
Authors: Guindolet Damien , Woodward Ashley M. , Gabison Eric E. , Argüeso Pablo
Published: April 2022

Tear hyperosmolarity plays an essential role in the initiation and progression of dry-eye disease. Under a hyperosmotic environment, corneal epithelial cells experience perturbations in endoplasmic reticulum function that can lead to proinflammatory signaling and apoptosis. In this study, we investigated the effect of tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA), a chemical chaperone known to protect against endoplasmic reticulum stress, on corneal epithelial cells exposed to hyperosmotic conditions. We found that the expression of the genes involved in the activation of the unfolded protein response and the pro-apoptotic transcription factor DDIT3 were markedly upregulated in patients with Sjögren’s dry-eye disease and in a human model of corneal epithelial differentiation following treatment with hyperosmotic saline. Experiments in vitro demonstrated that TUDCA prevented hyperosmotically induced cell death by reducing nuclear DNA fragmentation and caspase-3 activation. TUDCA supplementation also led to the transcriptional repression of CXCL8 and IL5, two inflammatory mediators associated with dry-eye pathogenesis. These studies highlight the role of hyperosmotic conditions in promoting endoplasmic reticulum stress in the cornea and identify TUDCA as a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of dry-eye disease.
Influence of Abiotic Factors on the Phytochemical Profile of Two Species of Artemisia: A. herba alba Asso and A. mesatlantica Maire
Authors: Amine Sanae , Bouhrim Mohamed , Mechchate Hamza , Ailli Atika , Radi Mohamed , Sahpaz Sevser , Amalich Smail , Mahjoubi Malika , Zair Touriya
Published: April 2022

The species of Artemisia are well known in the Mediterranean region, especially in Morocco, for their traditional uses and health benefit. In this study, we were interested in two species of Artemisia, namely A. herba alba Asso and A. mesatlantica Maire. These species were collected from different soils of the Central Middle Atlas (loamy, stony, limestone and rocky soil) with different atmospheres. Extraction of essential oils from the leaves and flowering tops was carried out by hydrodistillation in Clevenger apparatus. Chemical composition analysis was further carried out using gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Principal component analysis (PCA) was performed to determine the similarities and dissimilarities in the chemical compositions of these six essential oils. The results obtained showed that the essential oil contents extracted from the flowering tops vary from one species to another according to the place of harvest, altitude, soil type and climate. The essential oil yield is between 0.84% and 2.19% (mL/100 g). Chemical analysis revealed that the chemotype of A. herba alba in limestone soil with a subhumid to humid atmosphere is trans-thujone (33.78%), while camphor (46.19%) is for limestone soil with a semi-arid atmosphere, vetivenic acid (14.91%) and davana ether (14.64%) are for limestone soil with a semi-arid and arid atmosphere and camphor (18.39%) is for loamy and stony soil with a semi-arid atmosphere. As for A. mesatlantica from a rocky soil on limestone with a subhumid to humid atmosphere, the main component is camphor (44.86%), and that of limestone soil with a subhumid to the humid atmosphere trans-thujone (41.08%). In addition, HCA affirmed the PCA and allowed us to distinguish between four groups. Our findings observed differences in the chemical compositions of the isolated essential oils most likely related to many factors such as the climates in the regions of the samples collected, altitudes and soil types.
The Efficacy of Single-Stage Correction by Posterior Approach for Neglected Congenital Scoliosis: Comparative Analysis According to the Age of Surgical Intervention
Authors: Yang Jae Hyuk , Kim Hong Jin , Chang Dong-Gune , Suh Seung Woo , Nam Yunjin , Hong Jae-Young
Published: April 2022

Background: A single-stage correction for congenital scoliosis through a posterior-only approach is a commonly used surgical technique. However, there are few studies on the surgical treatment effect of posterior single-stage correction in patients with neglected congenital scoliosis. Methods: Patients who underwent a single-stage posterior correction for congenital scoliosis with a minimum follow-up of 2 years were divided into three groups based on age: Group A (7–11 years), B (12–18 years) and C (>18 years). A comparison of surgical, radiological, and clinical outcomes was performed for three groups. Results: The Cobb angle changed form 75 ± 18° to 37 ± 18° with a correction rate of 53%. Group A showed a significantly higher correction rate than Group B and C (all p < 0.001). The amount of blood loss in Groups B and C was significantly larger than that of Group A (p = 0.015). Pulmonary complications were significantly higher in Group C (p = 0.007). Conclusions: A single-stage correction with pedicle screws through a posterior-only approach achieved a significant correction with improved outcomes, even in neglected cases. However, the early correction for younger patients was still more beneficial in terms of bleeding loss, complications, and flexible curve correction.
Short-Term Mortality in Patients with Heart Failure at the End-of-Life Stages: Hades Study
Authors: Muñoz Miguel Angel , Calero Esther , Duran Julio , Navas Elena , Alonso Susana , Argemí Nuria , Casademunt Marta , Furió Patricia , Casajuana Elena , Torralba Nuria , Farre Nuria , Abellana Rosa , Verdú-Rotellar José-Maria ,   On behalf of HADES Study
Published: April 2022

Background: Information regarding short-term vital prognosis in patients with heart failure at advanced stages of the disease is scarce. Objective: To develop a three-month mortality predictive model for patients with advanced heart failure. Methods: Prospective observational study carried out in primary care and a convalescence community facility. Heart failure patients either New York Heart Association (NYHA) III with at least two HF hospitalizations during the previous six months or NYHA IV with/without previous recent hospitalization were included in the study. Multivariable predictive models using Cox regression were performed. Results: Of 271 patients included, 55 (20.3%) died during the first three months of follow-up. Mean age was 84.2 years (SD 8.3) and 59.8% were women. Predictive model including NT-proBNP had a C-index of 0.78 (95% CI 0.71; 0.85) and identified male gender, low body mass index, high potassium and NT-proBNP levels, and moderate-to-severe dependence for daily living activities (Barthel index < 40) as risk factors of mortality. In the model without NT-proBNP, C index was 0.72 (95% CI 0.64; 0.79) and, in addition to gender, body mass index, low Barthel index, and severe reductions in glomerular filtration rate showed the highest predictive hazard ratios for short-term mortality. Conclusions: In addition to age, male gender, potassium levels, low body mass index, and low glomerular filtration, dependence for activities of daily living add strong power to predict mortality at three months in patients with advanced heart failure.
Unresolved CFD and DEM Coupled Simulations on Scour around a Subsea Pipeline
Authors: Song Seongjin , Park Sunho
Published: April 2022

In this paper, numerical studies were carried out on scour around a subsea pipeline. A coupled solver between computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and discrete element method (DEM) was selected to simulate fluid flow and particle interactions. To select and validate the numerical model parameters in the solver, angles of repose and incipient motion were simulated. From the validation studies, the selected coefficient of rolling friction with spherical particles could predict the behavior of non-spherical particles. The fluid flow around the subsea pipeline was simulated, and the motion of individual soil particles was tracked. Particle motions were generated by the drag force, due to a high velocity. Three scour development process, such as onset of scour, tunnel erosion, and lee-wake erosion, were studied and discussed. The scour depth evolution showed good agreement with the experimental data. It was confirmed that the selected solver, with numerical model parameters, predicted the scour process around a subsea pipeline well.
Development of a Vector Set for High or Inducible Gene Expression and Protein Secretion in the Yeast Genus Blastobotrys
Authors: Boisramé Anita , Neuvéglise Cécile
Published: April 2022

Converting lignocellulosic biomass into value-added products is one of the challenges in developing a sustainable economy. Attempts to engineer fermenting yeasts to recover plant waste are underway. Although intensive metabolic engineering has been conducted to obtain Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains capable of metabolising pentose sugars mainly found in hemicellulose, enzymatic hydrolysis after pretreatment is still required. Blastobotrys raffinosifermentans, which naturally assimilates xylose and arabinose and displays numerous glycoside hydrolases, is a good candidate for direct and efficient conversion of renewable biomass. However, a greater diversity of tools for genetic engineering is needed. Here, we report the characterisation of four new promising promoters, a new dominant marker, and two vectors for the secretion of epitope tagged proteins along with a straightforward transformation protocol. The TDH3 promoter is a constitutive promoter stronger than TEF1, and whose activity is maintained at high temperature or in the presence of ethanol. The regulated promoters respond to high temperature for HSP26, gluconeogenic sources for PCK1 or presence of xylose oligomers for XYL1. Two expression/secretion vectors were designed based on pTEF1 and pTDH3, two endogenous signal peptides from an α-arabinanase and an α-glucuronidase, and two epitopes. A heterologous α-arabinoxylan hydrolase from Apiotrichum siamense was efficiently secreted using these two vectors.
Educational Intervention in Rehabilitation to Improve Functional Capacity after Hip Arthroplasty: A Scoping Review
Authors: Nicolau Célia , Mendes Liliana , Ciríaco Mário , Ferreira Bruno , Baixinho Cristina Lavareda , Fonseca César , Ferreira Rogério , Sousa Luís
Published: April 2022

(1) Background: The prevalence of coxarthrosis associated with ageing is one of the main reasons for the increase in hip arthroplasty. Educational intervention in the pre- and postoperative period of hip arthroplasty can improve functionality and, consequently, quality of life. Therefore, we intend to map the educational interventions that improve the functional capacity of people undergoing hip arthroplasty on their rehabilitation process. (2) Methods: Scoping review. The search was carried out in the databases: CINAHL complete, MEDLINE Complete, Nursing and Allied Health Collection: Comprehensive, Cochrane Methodology Register, Library, Information Science and Technology Abstracts, MedcLatina, and Google Academic. We included studies that evaluated the implementation of educational rehabilitation interventions that enable the empowerment and teaching of people undergoing hip arthroplasty. (3) Results: Thirteen studies were analysed that met the eligibility criteria and allowed the research question to be answered. Education in the perioperative period promotes training to perform rehabilitation exercises, improves the hospitalisation experience, increases participation in the rehabilitation process, allows early mobilisation, and increases the functional potential, thus enabling faster reintegration into society. (4) Conclusion: Early mobilisation plays a very important role in a person′s functional recovery, as well as in the prevention of thromboembolic complications. Exercise produces benefits in relation to physical function, namely, in improving strength, balance, facilitating functional activities, and preventing complications.
Do Agricultural Advisory Services in Europe Have the Capacity to Support the Transition to Healthy Soils?
Authors: Ingram Julie , Mills Jane , Black Jasmine E. , Chivers Charlotte-Anne , Aznar-Sánchez José A. , Elsen Annemie , Frac Magdalena , López-Felices Belén , Mayer-Gruner Paula , Skaalsveen Kamilla , Stolte Jannes , Tits Mia
Published: April 2022

The need to provide appropriate information, technical advice and facilitation to support farmers in transitioning towards healthy soils is increasingly clear, and the role of the Agricultural Advisory Services (AAS) in this is critical. However, the transformation of AAS (plurality, commercialisation, fragmentation, decentralisation) brings new challenges for delivering advice to support soil health management. This paper asks: To what extent do agricultural advisory services have the capacity to support the transition to healthy soils across Europe? Using the ‘best fit’ framework, analytical characteristics of the AAS relevant to the research question (governance structures, management, organisational and individual capacities) were identified. Analysis of 18 semi-structured expert interviews across 6 case study countries in Europe, selected to represent a range of contexts, was undertaken. Capacities to provide soil health management (SHM) advice are constrained by funding arrangements, limited adviser training and professional development, adviser motivations and professional cultures, all determined by institutional conditions. This has resulted in a narrowing down of access and content of soil advice and a reduced capacity to support the transition in farming to healthy soils. The extent to which emerging policy and market drivers incentivise enhanced capacities in AAS is an important area for future research.
Induction Motor DTC Performance Improvement by Inserting Fuzzy Logic Controllers and Twelve-Sector Neural Network Switching Table
Authors: Fahassa Chaymae , Zahraoui Yassine , Akherraz Mohammed , Kharrich Mohammed , Elattar Ehab E. , Kamel Salah
Published: April 2022

Human civilization has changed forever since induction motors were invented. Induction motors are widely used and have become the most prevalent electrical componentsdue to their beneficial characteristics. Many control strategies have been developed for their performance improvement, starting from scalar to vector to direct torque control. The latter, which is a class of vector control, was proposed as an alternative to ensure separate flux and torque control while remaining completely in a stationary reference frame. This technique allows direct inverter switching and reasonable simplicity compared to other vector control techniques, and it is less sensitive to parameter variation. Yet, the use of hysteresis controllers in conventional DTC involves undesired ripples in the stator current, flux, and torque, which lead to bad performances. This paper aims to minimize the ripple level and ensure the system’s performance in terms of robustness and stability. To generate the appropriate reference control voltages, the proposed method is an improved version of DTC, which combines the power of fuzzy logic, neural networks, and an increased number of sectors. Satisfactory results were obtained by numerical simulation in MATLAB/Simulink. The proposed method was proven to be a fast dynamic decoupled control that robustly responds to external disturbance and system uncertainties.
On Kudriasov Conditions for Univalence of Integral Operators Defined by Generalized Bessel Functions
Authors: Raza Mohsan , Malik Sarfraz Nawaz , Xin Qin , Din Muhey U. , Cotîrlă Luminiţa-Ioana
Published: April 2022

In this article, we studied the necessary conditions for the univalence of integral operators that involve two functions: the generalized Bessel function and a function from the well-known class of normalized analytic functions in the open unit disk. The main tools for our discussions were the Kudriasov conditions for the univalency of functions, as well as functional inequalities for the generalized Bessel functions. We included the conditions for the univalency of integral operators that involve Bessel, modified Bessel and spherical Bessel functions as special cases. Furthermore, we provided sufficient conditions for the integral operators that involve trigonometric, as well as hyperbolic, functions as an application of our results.
Multiple-Trigger Catastrophe Bond Pricing Model and Its Simulation Using Numerical Methods
Authors: Ibrahim Riza Andrian , Sukono  , Napitupulu Herlina
Published: April 2022

Investor interest in single-trigger catastrophe bonds (STCB) has the potential to decline in the future. It is triggered by the increasing trend of global catastrophe loss and intensity every year, which increases the probability that a claim of STCB will occur. To increase investor interest again, the issuance of multiple-trigger catastrophe bonds (MTCB) can be one solution. However, to issue MTCB, its pricing is more complex because it involves more factors than STCB. Therefore, this study aims to design a simple MTCB pricing model. The claim trigger indices used are actual loss and fatality. Then, a nonhomogeneous compound Poisson process is used to model actual losses and fatalities aggregate to consider catastrophe intensity. In addition, this study proposes numerical methods, namely the continuous distribution approximation method and the Nuel recursive method, to facilitate the application of the model. Finally, an analysis of the effect of catastrophe intensity and other factors on MTCB prices is also presented. This study is expected to help special-purpose vehicles as MTCB issuers in MTCB pricing.
A Study on Dynamics of CD4+ T-Cells under the Effect of HIV-1 Infection Based on a Mathematical Fractal-Fractional Model via the Adams-Bashforth Scheme and Newton Polynomials
Authors: Najafi Hashem , Etemad Sina , Patanarapeelert Nichaphat , Asamoah Joshua Kiddy K. , Rezapour Shahram , Sitthiwirattham Thanin
Published: April 2022

In recent decades, AIDS has been one of the main challenges facing the medical community around the world. Due to the large human deaths of this disease, researchers have tried to study the dynamic behaviors of the infectious factor of this disease in the form of mathematical models in addition to clinical trials. In this paper, we study a new mathematical model in which the dynamics of CD4+ T-cells under the effect of HIV-1 infection are investigated in the context of a generalized fractal-fractional structure for the first time. The kernel of these new fractal-fractional operators is of the generalized Mittag-Leffler type. From an analytical point of view, we first derive some results on the existence theory and then the uniqueness criterion. After that, the stability of the given fractal-fractional system is reviewed under four different cases. Next, from a numerical point of view, we obtain two numerical algorithms for approximating the solutions of the system via the Adams-Bashforth method and Newton polynomials method. We simulate our results via these two algorithms and compare both of them. The numerical results reveal some stability and a situation of lacking a visible order in the early days of the disease dynamics when one uses the Newton polynomial.
Chaotic Search-Based Salp Swarm Algorithm for Dealing with System of Nonlinear Equations and Power System Applications
Authors: El-Shorbagy Mohammed A. , Eldesoky Islam M. , Basyouni Mohamady M. , Nassar Islam , El-Refaey Adel M.
Published: April 2022

The system of nonlinear equations (SNLEs) is one of the eminent problems in science and engineering, and it is still open to research. A new hybrid intelligent algorithm is presented in this research to solve SNLEs. It is a composite of the salp swarm algorithm (SSA) and chaotic search technique (CST). The proposed methodology is named chaotic salp swarm algorithm (CSSA). CSSA is designed as an optimization process, whereby feasible and infeasible solutions are updated to move closer to the optimum value. The use of this hybrid intelligent methodology aims to improve performance, increase solution versatility, avoid the local optima trap, speed up convergence and optimize the search process. Firstly, SNLEs are transformed into an optimization problem. Secondly, CSSA is used to solve this optimization problem: SSA is used to update the feasible solutions, whereas the infeasible solutions are updated by CST. One of the most significant advantages of the suggested technique is that it does not ignore infeasible solutions that are updated, because these solutions are often extremely near to the optimal solution, resulting in increased search effectiveness and effective exploration and exploitation. The algorithm’s mathematical model is presented in detail. Finally, the proposed approach is assessed with several benchmark problems and real-world applications. Simulation results show that the proposed CSSA is competitive and better in comparison to others, which illustrates the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. In addition, a statistical analysis by the Wilcoxon rankings test between CSSA and the other comparison methods shows that all p-values are less than 0.05, and CSSA achieves negative ranks’ sum values (R−) much better than the positive ranks’ sum values (R+) in all benchmark problems. In addition, the results have high precision and show good agreement in comparison with similar methods, and they further proved the ability of CSSA to solve real-world applications.
Marine Migrastatics: A Comprehensive 2022 Update
Authors: Vasarri Marzia , Barletta Emanuela , Degl’Innocenti Donatella
Published: April 2022

Metastasis is responsible for the bad prognosis in cancer patients. Advances in research on metastasis prevention focus attention on the molecular mechanisms underlying cancer cell motility and invasion to improve therapies for long-term survival in cancer patients. The so-called “migrastatics” could help block cancer cell invasion and lead to the rapid development of antimetastatic therapies, improving conventional cancer therapies. In the relentless search for migrastatics, the marine environment represents an important source of natural compounds due to its enormous biodiversity. Thus, this review is a selection of scientific research that has pointed out in a broad spectrum of in vitro and in vivo models the anti-cancer power of marine-derived products against cancer cell migration and invasion over the past five years. Overall, this review might provide a useful up-to-date guide about marine-derived compounds with potential interest for pharmaceutical and scientific research on antimetastatic drug endpoints.
Unforeseen Outcomes Post Treatment for Radiation Induced Trismus: A Case Report
Authors: Sivam Akash , Garg Ankit , Sillifant Paul
Published: April 2022

Post radiotherapy radiation trismus presents significant concerns for a patient’s quality of life and for the clinical monitoring for recurrence of head and neck oncology. Current treatments include scar band release surgery that has been shown to be safe and effective. We present a case with a rare, post-operative complication of difficulty of mouth closure that can pose a significant impact on quality of life that should be considered.
Xenopus Oocytes: A Tool to Decipher Molecular Specificity of Insecticides towards Mammalian and Insect GABA—A Receptors
Authors: Bertaud Anaïs , Cens Thierry , Mary Rosanna , Rousset Matthieu , Arel Elodie , Thibaud Jean-Baptiste , Vignes Michel , Ménard Claudine , Dutertre Sébastien , Collet Claude , Charnet Pierre
Published: April 2022

The number of insect GABA receptors (GABAr) available for expression studies has been recently increased by the cloning of the Acyrthosiphon pisum (pea aphid) RDL subunits. This large number of cloned RDL subunits from pest and beneficial insects opens the door to parallel pharmacological studies on the sensitivity of these different insect GABAr to various agonists or antagonists. The resulting analysis of the molecular basis of the species-specific GABAr responses to insecticides is necessary not only to depict and understand species toxicity, but also to help at the early identification of unacceptable toxicity of insecticides toward beneficial insects such as Apis mellifera (honeybees). Using heterologous expression in Xenopus laevis oocytes, and two-electrode voltage-clamp recording to assess the properties of the GABAr, we performed a comparative analysis of the pharmacological sensitivity of RDL subunits from A. pisum, A. mellifera and Varroa destructor GABAr to three pesticides (fipronil, picrotoxin and dieldrin). These data were compared to similar characterizations performed on two Homo sapiens GABA-A receptors (α2β2γ2 and α2β2γ2). Our results underline a global conservation of the pharmacological profiles of these receptors, with some interesting species specificities, nonetheless, and suggest that this approach can be useful for the early identification of poorly specific molecules.
Physical and Mechanical Characteristics of Gelatin-Based Films as a Potential Food Packaging Material: A Review
Authors: Said Nurul Saadah , Sarbon Norizah Mhd
Published: April 2022

This review discusses the potential application of gelatin-based film as biodegradable food packaging material from various types of gelatin sources. The exploitation of gelatin as one of the biopolymer packaging in the food industry has rising interest among researchers as the world becomes more concerned about environmental problems caused by petroleum-based packaging and increasing consumer demands on food safety. Single gelatin-based film properties have been characterized in comparison with active and intelligent gelatin-based composite films. The physical properties of gelatin-based film such as thickness, color, and biodegradability were much influenced by total solid contents in each film. While, for mechanical and light barrier properties, poultry-based gelatin films have shown better properties compared to mammalian and marine gelatin films. This paper detailed the information on gelatin-based film characterization in comparison with active and intelligent gelatin-based composite films. The physical properties of gelatin-based film such as color, UV-Vis absorption spectra, water vapor permeability, thermal, and moisture properties are discussed along with their mechanical properties, including tensile strength and elongation at break.
A Porcine Model for the Development and Testing of Preoperative Skin Preparations
Authors: Duffy Hannah R. , Godfrey Rose W. , Williams Dustin L. , Ashton Nicholas N.
Published: April 2022

Clinical preoperative skin preparations (PSPs) do not eradicate skin flora dwelling in the deepest dermal regions. Survivors constitute a persistent infection risk. In search of solutions, we created a porcine model intended for PSP developmental testing. This model employed microbiological techniques sensitive to the deep-dwelling microbial flora as these microorganisms are frequently overlooked when using institutionally-entrenched testing methodologies. Clinical gold-standard PSPs were assessed. Ten Yorkshire pigs were divided into two groups: prepared with either povidone iodine (PVP-I) or chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) PSP. Bioburdens were calculated on square, 4 cm by 4 cm, full-thickness skin samples homogenized in neutralizing media. Endogenous bioburden of porcine skin (3.3 log10 CFU/cm2) was consistent with natural flora numbers in dry human skin. On-label PSP scrub kits with PVP-I (n = 39) or CHG (n = 40) failed the 2–3 log10-reduction criteria established for PSPs by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), resulting in a 1.46 log10 and 0.58 log10 reduction, respectively. Porcine dermal microbiota mirrored that of humans, displaying abundant staphylococcal species. Likewise, histological sections showed similarity in hair follicle depths and sebaceous glands (3.2 ± 0.7 mm). These shared characteristics and the considerable fraction of bacteria which survived clinical PSPs make this model useful for developmental work.
Corrosion of an AZ31B Magnesium Alloy by Sulfate-Reducing Prokaryotes in a Mudflat Environment
Authors: Lan Xiao , Zhang Jie , Wang Zaifeng , Zhang Ruiyong , Sand Wolfgang , Zhang Liang , Duan Jizhou , Zhu Qingjun , Hou Baorong
Published: April 2022

To study the abnormal failure of magnesium anodes for buried pipelines in marine engineering in the unique environment of mudflats, a strain of a sulfate–reducing prokaryote (SRP) was isolated from pipe–laying soil, and identified as Desulfovibrio sp. HQM3. Weight–loss test, electrochemical measurements, SEM, EDS, XRD, and CLSM techniques were used to study the effect of corrosion on the AZ31B magnesium alloy. Under the influence of SRP, the magnesium alloy corroded severely at rates up to 1.31 mm/year in the mudflat environment. SRP accelerated corrosion by 0.3mm/year. Pitting occurred on the samples in both abiotic and biotic systems. The pitting depth reached 163.47 μm in the biotic system after 14 days. The main composition of a petal–like corrosion product was Mg(OH)2. The results show that a mudflat environment can lead to an accelerated corrosion of magnesium alloys.
Microbiomics Revealed the Disturbance of Intestinal Balance in Rabbits with Diarrhea Caused by Stopping the Use of an Antibiotic Diet
Authors: Wang Jie , Xia Siqi , Fan Huimei , Shao Jiahao , Tang Tao , Yang Li , Sun Wenqiang , Jia Xianbo , Chen Shiyi , Lai Songjia
Published: April 2022

The harmful effects of diarrhea on the growth performance of rabbits have been well documented, but the details of the potential mechanism of intestinal diarrhea when antibiotics are stopped are still unclear. Here, PacBio sequencing technology was used to sequence the full length 16S rRNA gene of the microbiota of intestinal content samples, in order to characterize the bacterial communities in the small intestine (duodenum and jejunum) and large intestine (colon and cecum) in normal Hyplus rabbits and those with diarrhea. The histopathological examination showed that intestinal necrosis occurred in different degrees in the diarrhea group, and that the mucosal epithelium was shed and necrotic, forming erosion, and the clinical manifestation was necrosis. However, the intestinal tissue structure of the normal group was normal. The results revealed that there were significant differences in bacterial communities and structure between the diarrhea and normal groups of four intestinal segments (p < 0.05). In general, 16 bacterial phyla, 144 bacterial genera and 22 metabolic pathways were identified in the two groups. Tax4Fun functional prediction analysis showed that KEGG related to amino acid metabolism and energy metabolism was enriched in the large intestines of rabbits with diarrhea, whereas lipid metabolism was more abundant in the small intestine of rabbits with diarrhea. In conclusion, the change in the relative abundance of the identified dominant microbiota, which could deplete key anti-inflammatory metabolites and lead to bacterial imbalance and diarrhea, resulted in diarrhea in Hyplus rabbits that stopped using antibiotics.
Purification and Characterization of a Fibrinolytic Enzyme from Marine Bacillus velezensis Z01 and Assessment of Its Therapeutic Efficacy In Vivo
Authors: Zhou Yuting , Chen Huizhen , Yu Bo , Chen Guiguang , Liang Zhiqun
Published: April 2022

Fibrinolytic enzymes are the most effective agents for the treatment of thrombotic diseases. In the present study, we purified and characterized an extracellular fibrinolytic serine metalloprotease (named Velefibrinase) that is produced by marine Bacillus velezensis Z01 and assessed its thrombolysis in vivo. SDS-PAGE and MALDI-TOF-MS analyses showed that the molecular mass of Velefibrinase was 32.3 KDa and belonged to the peptidase S8 family. The optimal fibrinolytic activity conditions of Velefibrinase were 40 °C and pH 7.0. Moreover, Velefibrinase exhibited high substrate specificity to fibrin, and a higher ratio of fibrinolytic/caseinolytic (1.48) values, which indicated that Velefibrinase had excellent fibrinolytic properties. Based on the degradation pattern of fibrin and fibrinogen, Velefibrinase could be classified as α/β-fibrinogenase. In vitro, Velefibrinase demonstrated efficient thrombolytic ability, anti-platelet aggregation, and amelioration of blood coagulation (APTT, PT, TT, and FIB), which were superior to those of commercial anticoagulant urokinase. Velefibrinase showed no hemolysis for erythrocyte in vitro and no hemorrhagic activity in vivo. Finally, Velefibrinase effectively prevented mouse tail thrombosis in a dose-dependent (0.22–0.88 mg/kg) manner. These findings suggested that Velefibrinase has the potential to becoming a new thrombolytic agent.
Hybrid Passivated Red Organic LEDs with Prolonged Operation and Storage Lifetime
Authors: Feng Dan-Dan , Sun Shuang-Qiao , He Wei , Wang Jun , Shi Xiao-Bo , Fung Man-Keung
Published: April 2022

In addition to mobile and TV displays, there is a trend of organic LEDs being applied in niche markets, such as microdisplays, automobile taillights, and photobiomodulation therapy. These applications mostly do not require to be flexible in form but need to have long operation lifetimes and storage lifespans. Using traditional glass encapsulation may not be able to fulfill the rigorous product specification, and a hybrid encapsulation method by combining glass and thin-film encapsulation will be the solution. Conventional thin-film encapsulation technology generally involves organic and inorganic multilayer films that are thick and have considerable stress. As a result, when subjected to extreme heat and stress, the film easily peels off. Herein, the water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of a 2 µm silicon nitride film prepared at 85 °C is less than 5 × 10−5 g/m2/day and its stress is optimized to be 23 MPa. Red organic LEDs are passivated with the hybrid encapsulation, and the T95 lifetime reaches nearly 10 years if the LED is continuously driven at an initial luminance of 1000 cd/m2. In addition, a storage lifespan of over 17 years is achieved.
Emerging Technologies for Detecting the Chemical Composition of Plant and Animal Tissues and Their Bioactivities: An Editorial
Authors: Gouda Mostafa , He Yong , Bekhit Alaa El-Din , Li Xiaoli
Published: April 2022

Integrating physical and chemical technologies for the characterization and modification of plants and animal tissues has been used for several decades to improve their detection potency and quality [...]
Fiber Preparation from Micronized Oat By-Products: Antioxidant Properties and Interactions between Bioactive Compounds
Authors: Dziki Dariusz , Gawlik-Dziki Urszula , Tarasiuk Wojciech , Różyło Renata
Published: April 2022

This study aimed to investigate the possibility of utilizing oat by-products for fiber preparation. Oat husk (OH) and oat bran (OB) were micronized and used to prepare a novel product rich in fiber and with enhanced antioxidant properties. The basic chemical composition and phenolic acid profile were determined in OH and OB. The antioxidant properties of OH and OB were also analyzed. The type and strength of interactions between the biologically active compounds from their mixtures were characterized by an isobolographic analysis. The analyses showed that the sum of phenolic acids was higher in OH than in OB. Ferulic acid was dominant in both OH and OB; however, its content in OH was over sixfold higher than that in OB. The results also suggested that both OH and OB can be used for preparing fiber with enhanced antioxidant properties. The optimal composition of the preparation, with 60–70% of OH and 30–40% of OB, allows for obtaining a product with 60–70% fiber and enhanced antioxidant activity due to bioactive substances and their synergistic effect. The resulting product can be a valuable additive to various food and dietary supplements.
The Influence of High-Intensity Ultrasonication on Properties of Cellulose Produced from the Hop Stems, the Byproduct of the Hop Cones Production
Authors: Szymańska-Chargot Monika , Cieśla Jolanta , Pękala Patrycja , Pieczywek Piotr M. , Oleszek Wiesław , Żyła Marcin , Szkopek Zbigniew , Zdunek Artur
Published: April 2022

The goal of this work is to evaluate the hop stems, a byproduct of hop cones production, as a potential source of cellulose. Hop stems contain up to 29% of cellulose. The cellulose isolation was conducted through the thermochemical treatment. After high-speed blending, the cellulose was characterized by 67% of crystallinity degree obtained from X-ray diffraction and median diameter of 6.7 nm obtained from atomic force microscopy imaging. The high-intensity ultrasonication (HIUS) was applied to reach further disintegration of cellulose fibers. The longer HIUS treatment resulted in decrease in crystallinity degree even up to 60% and decrease in the fiber diameter up to 4 nm. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra showed that HIUS treatment led to changes in intermolecular hydrogen bonds. The stability of cellulose dispersions versus length of HIUS treatment was monitored over 14 days with back dynamic light scattering and laser Doppler electrophoresis methods. Obtained results are evidence that the hop stems are a potential source of cellulose and that it is possible to obtain stable dispersions after HIUS treatment. This was the first time that the properties of hop cellulose have been described so extensively and in detail after the use of HIUS treatment.