bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Blue Sky Effect”: Contextual Influences on Pupil Size During Naturalistic Visual Search
Authors: Thurman Steven M. , Cohen Hoffing Russell A. , Madison Anna , Ries Anthony J. , Gordon Stephen M. , Touryan Jonathan
Published: December 2021

Pupil size is influenced by cognitive and non-cognitive factors. One of the strongest modulators of pupil size is scene luminance, which complicates studies of cognitive pupillometry in environments with complex patterns of visual stimulation. To help understand how dynamic visual scene statistics influence pupil size during an active visual search task in a visually rich 3D virtual environment (VE), we analyzed the correlation between pupil size and intensity changes of image pixels in the red, green, and blue (RGB) channels within a large window (~14 degrees) surrounding the gaze position over time. Overall, blue and green channels had a stronger influence on pupil size than the red channel. The correlation maps were not consistent with the hypothesis of a foveal bias for luminance, instead revealing a significant contextual effect, whereby pixels above the gaze point in the green/blue channels had a disproportionate impact on pupil size. We hypothesized this differential sensitivity of pupil responsiveness to blue light from above as a “blue sky effect,” and confirmed this finding with a follow-on experiment with a controlled laboratory task. Pupillary constrictions were significantly stronger when blue was presented above fixation (paired with luminance-matched gray on bottom) compared to below fixation. This effect was specific for the blue color channel and this stimulus orientation. These results highlight the differential sensitivity of pupillary responses to scene statistics in studies or applications that involve complex visual environments and suggest blue light as a predominant factor influencing pupil size.
Hypercarotenemia in Anorexia Nervosa Patients May Influence Weight Balance: Results of a Clinical Cross-Sectional Cohort Study
Authors: Lackner Sonja , Meier-Allard Nathalie , Mörkl Sabrina , Müller Wolfram , Fürhapter-Rieger Alfred , Mangge Harald , Zelzer Sieglinde , Holasek Sandra
Published: December 2021

Introduction: Anorexia nervosa (AN) can co-occur with hypercarotenemia, a clinical condition characterized by elevated β-carotene in plasma and skin tissue. Carotenoids have known anti-obesogenic effects in adipocyte biology. Thus, carotenoids may potentially play a retarding role in weight gain during the recovery of AN patients. This study evaluated the plasma carotenoid profile and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) in a cohort of AN patients and normal weight (NW) controls.

Methods: Plasma concentrations of α-carotene, β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, and lycopene were determined by HPLC analysis. SAT thicknesses were measured by a highly accurate and reliable ultrasound technique. Information on dietary intakes were collected by repeated 24-h recalls.

Results: Sixty-two females (AN: n = 18, NW: n = 44) were included. The concentrations of β-cryptoxanthin (p = 0.045) and lycopene (p = 0.004) were significantly lower in AN patients. β-carotene levels were higher in AN patients (n.s.) and α-carotene did not differ significantly. SAT thickness was significantly lower in AN patients compared to controls (p < 0.001). β-carotene was significantly negative (rs = −0.471) and lycopene significantly positive (rs = 0.366) correlated with SAT. The correlation of β-carotene and SAT was even higher in the AN group alone (rs = −0.742). Also, β- cryptoxanthin and the sum of provitamin A carotenoids were correlated to SAT (rs = −0.647 and rs = −0.746, respectively) in AN patients. Fruits and vegetable intake did not differ significantly between AN and NW but adjusted for SAT, AN patients consumed relatively higher amounts (p = 0.006).

Conclusion: Higher plasma β-carotene concentrations were associated with reduced SAT levels, most probably due to a reduced ability of the remaining adipose tissue to store carotenoids. Thus, the antiobesity effects of carotenoids might impact the treatment success of undernutrition and AN. A systemic carotenoid overload may contribute to changes in adipogenesis and metabolic capacities for energy storage. Therefore, high plasma β-carotene may be a marker of delay in weight recovery in AN patients. Interventional studies should consider including carotenoid-status in AN treatment.
Neuroplasticity at Home: Improving Home-Based Motor Learning Through Technological Solutions. A Review
Authors: Forman Christian Riis , Nielsen Jens Bo , Lorentzen Jakob
Published: December 2021

Background: Effective science-based motor rehabilitation requires high volume of individualized, intense physical training, which can be difficult to achieve exclusively through physical 1-on-1 sessions with a therapist. Home-based training, enhanced by technological solutions, could be a tool to help facilitate the important factors for neuroplastic motor improvements.

Objectives: This review aimed to discover how the inclusion of modern information and communications technology in home-based training programs can promote key neuroplastic factors associated with motor learning in neurological disabilities and identify which challenges are still needed to overcome.

Methods: We conducted a thorough literature search on technological home-based training solutions and categorized the different fundamental approaches that were used. We then analyzed how these approaches can be used to promote certain key factors of neuroplasticity and which challenges still need to be solved or require external personalized input from a therapist.

Conclusions: The technological approaches to home-based training were divided into three categories: sensory stimuli training, digital exchange of information training, and telerehabilitation. Generally, some technologies could be characterized as easily applicable, which gave the opportunity to promote flexible scheduling and a larger overall training volume, but limited options for individualized variation and progression. Other technologies included individualization options through personalized feedback that might increase the training effect, but also increases the workload of the therapist. Further development of easily applicable and intelligent solutions, which can return precise feedback and individualized training suggestions, is needed to fully realize the potential of home-based training in motor learning activities.
Spatial Distribution and Population Estimation of Dogs in Thailand: Implications for Rabies Prevention and Control
Authors: Thanapongtharm Weerapong , Kasemsuwan Suwicha , Wongphruksasoong Vilaiporn , Boonyo Khemmapat , Pinyopummintr Tanu , Wiratsudakul Anuwat , Gilbert Marius , Leelahapongsathon Kansuda
Published: December 2021

Poor management of dog populations causes many problems in different countries, including rabies. To strategically design a dog population management, certain sets of data are required, such as the population size and spatial distribution of dogs. However, these data are rarely available or incomplete. Hence, this study aimed to describe the characteristics of dog populations in Thailand, explore their spatial distribution and relevant factors, and estimate the number of dogs in the whole country. First, four districts were selected as representatives of each region. Each district was partitioned into grids with a 300-m resolution. The selected grids were then surveyed, and the number of dogs and related data were collected. Random forest models with a two-part approach were used to quantify the association between the surveyed dog population and predictor variables. The spatial distribution of dog populations was then predicted. A total of 1,750 grids were surveyed (945 grids with dog presence and 805 grids with dog absence). Among the surveyed dogs, 86.6% (12,027/13,895) were owned. Of these, 51% were classified as independent, followed by confined (25%), semi-independent (21%), and unidentified dogs (3%). Seventy-two percent (1,348/1,868) of the ownerless dogs were feral, and the rest were community dogs. The spatial pattern of the dog populations was highly distributed in big cities such as Bangkok and its suburbs. In owned dogs, it was linked to household demographics, whereas it was related to community factors in ownerless dogs. The number of estimated dogs in the entire country was 12.8 million heads including 11.2 million owned dogs (21.7 heads/km2) and 1.6 million ownerless dogs (3.2 heads/km2). The methods developed here are extrapolatable to a larger area and use much less budget and manpower compared to the present practices. Our results are helpful for canine rabies prevention and control programs, such as dog population management and control and rabies vaccine allocation.
Беларусь на перепутье конституционного развития
Authors: Pastukhou Mikhail
Published: December 2021

The article analyzes the possible options for the constitutional development of the Republic of Belarus. Among them: amending the current Constitution, the adoption of a new Constitution and the restoration of the 1994 Constitution. The author substantiates his approach to the forthcoming constitutional reforms.
Идентичность как причина появления сепаратистских тенденций (на примере Украины)
Authors: Yuskiv Khrystyna
Published: December 2021

The intensification of separatism in Ukraine in 2014 became possible due to profound changes in the worldview of a significant part of the population, which manifested in the changing of national self-identification. The purpose of the article is to clarify scientific ideas about the essence and relationship of separatism and identity on the example of Donbas. The article argues for the idea of the absence of an ethnic marker in the conflict in Donbass, where separatism is based on the specific regional identity, to which, through the efforts of Russian propaganda, the cultural, ideological, civilizational characteristics of the «Russian world» are added.
Large-Scale CAMUI Type Hybrid Rocket Motor Scaling, Modeling, and Test Results
Authors: Viscor Tor , Kamps Landon , Yonekura Kazuo , Isochi Hikaru , Nagata Harunori
Published: December 2021

An understanding of the scalability of hybrid rocket regression models is critical for the enlargement and commercialization of small-scale engines developed within universities and similar research institutions. This paper investigates the fuel regression rates of recent 40 kN thrust-class motor experiments, which were designed based on fuel regression rate correlations of 2.5 kN thrust-class motors from previous research. The results show that fuel regression rates of the 40 kN experiments were within 26% of predictions made using correlations based on 2.5 kN experiments.
DigiPig: First Developments of an Automated Monitoring System for Body, Head and Tail Detection in Intensive Pig Farming
Authors: Ocepek Marko , Žnidar Anja , Lavrič Miha , Škorjanc Dejan , Andersen Inger Lise
Published: December 2021

The goal of this study was to develop an automated monitoring system for the detection of pigs’ bodies, heads and tails. The aim in the first part of the study was to recognize individual pigs (in lying and standing positions) in groups and their body parts (head/ears, and tail) by using machine learning algorithms (feature pyramid network). In the second part of the study, the goal was to improve the detection of tail posture (tail straight and curled) during activity (standing/moving around) by the use of neural network analysis (YOLOv4). Our dataset (n = 583 images, 7579 pig posture) was annotated in Labelbox from 2D video recordings of groups (n = 12–15) of weaned pigs. The model recognized each individual pig’s body with a precision of 96% related to threshold intersection over union (IoU), whilst the precision for tails was 77% and for heads this was 66%, thereby already achieving human-level precision. The precision of pig detection in groups was the highest, while head and tail detection precision were lower. As the first study was relatively time-consuming, in the second part of the study, we performed a YOLOv4 neural network analysis using 30 annotated images of our dataset for detecting straight and curled tails. With this model, we were able to recognize tail postures with a high level of precision (90%).
Towards Sustainable Dairy Production in Argentina: Evaluating Nutrient and CO2 Release from Raw and Processed Farm Waste
Authors: Iocoli Gastón A. , Orden Luciano , López Fernando M. , Gómez Marisa A. , Villamil María B. , Zabaloy María C.
Published: December 2021

Mineralization studies are the first step in determining the usefulness of an amendment such as fertilizer, and are essential to creating guidelines for dairy waste management to help producers make informed decisions. Our goal was to assess the effects of dairy raw, composted, and digested manure amendments on C, N, and P mineralization to evaluate the feasibility of their in-farm production and use as organic fertilizers. The liquid and solid fractions of dairy effluent (LDE, SDE), dairy effluent digestate (DED), onion–cattle manure digestate and compost (OCMD, OCMC) were characterized by chemical and spectroscopic methods. Soil microcosms with LDE, SDE, DED, OCMD and OCMC and the C, N and P mineralization were determined periodically. Elemental and structural differences among amendments led to contrasting profiles of C, N, and P mineralization, and thus to differences in nutrient availability, immobilization, and CO2 emission. All processed materials were more stable than untreated waste, reducing C emissions. Digestates showed net C immobilization, and supplied the highest levels of available N, creating a relative P deficit. Instead, the compost supplied N and P via mineralization, producing a relative P excess. Future studies should aim at evaluating fertilization strategies that combine both kinds of amendments, to exploit their complimentary agronomic characteristics.
High Temperature and Humidity Affect Pollen Viability and Longevity in Olea europaea L.
Authors: Iovane Maurizio , Cirillo Aurora , Izzo Luigi Gennaro , Di Vaio Claudio , Aronne Giovanna
Published: December 2021

Olea europaea L. is a crop typical of the Mediterranean area that has an important role in economy, society, and culture of this region. Climate change is expected to have significant impact on this crop, which is typically adapted to certain pedo-climatic characteristics of restricted geographic areas. In this scenario, the aim of this study was to evaluate the time-course response of pollen viability to different combinations of temperature and humidity. The study was performed comparing flowering time and pollen functionality of O. europaea from twelve cultivars growing at the same site belonging to the Campania olive collection in Italy. Pollen was incubated at 12 °C, 22 °C, and 36 °C in combination with 50% RH or 100% RH treatments for 5 days. The results highlighted that a drastic loss of pollen viability occurs when pollen is subjected to a combination of high humidity and high temperature, whereas 50% RH had less impact on pollen thermotolerance, because most cultivars preserved a high pollen viability over time. In the ongoing climate change scenario, it is critical to assess the effect of increasing temperatures on sensitive reproductive traits such as pollen viability to predict possible reduction in crop yield. Moreover, the results highlighted that the effect of temperature increase on pollen thermotolerance should be evaluated in combination with other environmental factors such as humidity conditions. The screening of olive cultivars based on pollen thermotolerance is critical in the ongoing climate change scenario, especially considering that the economic value of this species relies on successful fertilization and embryo development, and also that production cycle of Olea europaea can be longer than a hundred years.
The Potential of Using Temperate–Tropical Crossbreds and Agricultural by-Products, Associated with Heat Stress Management for Dairy Production in the Tropics: A Review
Authors: Michael Predith , de Cruz Clement Roy , Mohd Nor Norhariani , Jamli Saadiah , Goh Yong Meng
Published: December 2021

The demand and consumption of dairy products are expected to increase exponentially in developing countries, particularly in tropical regions. However, the intensification of dairy production to meet this increasing demand has its challenges. The challenges ranged from feed costs, resources, and their utilization, as well as the heat stress associated with rearing temperate–tropical crossbred cattle in the tropics. This article focused on key nutritional and environmental factors that should be considered when temperate–tropical crossbred cattle are used in the tropics. The article also describes measures to enhance the utilization of regional feed resources and efforts to overcome the impacts of heat stress. Heat stress is a major challenge in tropical dairy farming, as it leads to poor production, despite the genetic gains made through crossbreeding of high production temperate cattle with hardy tropical animals. The dependence on imported feed and animal-man competition for the same feed resources has escalated feed cost and food security concerns. The utilization of agricultural by-products and production of stable tropical crossbreds will be an asset to tropical countries in the future, more so when scarcity of feed resources and global warming becomes a closer reality. This initiative has far-reaching impacts in the tropics and increasingly warmer areas of traditional dairying regions in the future.
Relationships among Indicators of Metabolism, Mammary Health and the Microbiomes of Periparturient Holstein Cows
Authors: Tardón Daniela C. , Hoffmann Christian , Santos Fernanda C. R. , Decaris Nathalia , Pinheiro Filipe A. , Queiroz Luciano L. , Hurley David J. , Gomes Viviani
Published: December 2021

During the period called “transition”, from the ceasing of milk production to the reestablishment of full milk production, it is postulated that the microbiota of cows undergo changes in composition driven by the fluxes in systemic energetics and that these changes appear to impact the health of cows. The primary objective of this study was to document the make-up of the microbiota in the mammary gland compared with those in the vagina and in feces in an attempt to determine any correlations between the composition of the microbiota, the impact of blood indicators of energetic metabolites and the health of the mammary gland at the time of calving. Samples were collected from 20 Holstein dairy cows immediately following calving to assess their general health and measure the microbiomes associated with each cow using 16S rRNA sequencing. The results indicated that the microbiomes found within each maternal niche were different. A set of significant negative associations between the blood energetic biomarkers (NEFAs, BHB, triglycerides and cholesterol) and the taxa Pseudomonas, Christensenellaceae and Methanobrevibacter were observed in this study. In contrast, Escherichia and Romboutsia were positively correlated with the same energetic metabolites. Therefore, it was concluded that there appears to be a set of relationships between the microorganisms that colonize several niches of cows and the sufficiency of systemic energy metabolism. Furthermore, both the microbiome and energy dynamics impact the health of the mammary gland of the host.
Economic Analysis of an Image-Based Beef Carcass Yield Estimation System in Korea
Authors: Wakholi Collins , Nabwire Shona , Kim Juntae , Bae Jeong Hwan , Kim Moon Sung , Baek Insuck , Cho Byoung-Kwan
Published: December 2021

To minimize production costs, reduce mistakes, and improve consistency, modern-day slaughterhouses have turned to automated technologies for operations such as cutting, deboning, etc. One of the most vital operations in the slaughterhouse is carcass grading, usually performed manually by grading staff, which creates a bottleneck in terms of production speed and consistency. To speed up the carcass grading process, we developed an online system that uses image analysis and statistical tools to estimate up to 23 key yield parameters. A thorough economic analysis is required to aid slaughterhouses in making informed decisions about the risks and benefits of investing in the system. We therefore conducted an economic analysis of the system using a cost-benefit analysis (the methods considered were net present value (NPV), internal rate of return (IRR), and benefit/cost ratio (BCR)) and sensitivity analysis. The benefits considered for analysis include labor cost reduction and gross margin improvement arising from optimizing breeding practices with the use of the data obtained from the system. The cost-benefit analysis of the system resulted in an NPV of approximately 310.9 million Korean Won (KRW), a BCR of 1.72, and an IRR of 22.28%, which means the benefits outweigh the costs in the long term.
Coenzyme Q10, Ageing and the Nervous System: An Overview
Authors: Mantle David , Heaton Robert A. , Hargreaves Iain P.
Published: December 2021

The ageing brain is characterised by changes at the physical, histological, biochemical and physiological levels. This ageing process is associated with an increased risk of developing a number of neurological disorders, notably Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. There is evidence that mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress play a key role in the pathogenesis of such disorders. In this article, we review the potential therapeutic role in these age-related neurological disorders of supplementary coenzyme Q10, a vitamin-like substance of vital importance for normal mitochondrial function and as an antioxidant. This review is concerned primarily with studies in humans rather than in vitro studies or studies in animal models of neurological disease. In particular, the reasons why the outcomes of clinical trials supplementing coenzyme Q10 in these neurological disorders is discussed.
Dexamethasone Administration in Mice Leads to Less Body Weight Gain over Time, Lower Serum Glucose, and Higher Insulin Levels Independently of NRF2
Authors: Filippopoulou Fotini , Habeos George I. , Rinotas Vagelis , Sophocleous Antonia , Sykiotis Gerasimos P. , Douni Eleni , Chartoumpekis Dionysios V.
Published: December 2021

Glucocorticoids are used widely on a long-term basis in autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Their adverse effects include the development of hyperglycemia and osteoporosis, whose molecular mechanisms have been only partially studied in preclinical models. Both these glucocorticoid-induced pathologies have been shown to be mediated at least in part by oxidative stress. The transcription factor nuclear erythroid factor 2-like 2 (NRF2) is a central regulator of antioxidant and cytoprotective responses. Thus, we hypothesized that NRF2 may play a role in glucocorticoid-induced metabolic disease and osteoporosis. To this end, WT and Nrf2 knockout (Nrf2KO) mice of both genders were treated with 2 mg/kg dexamethasone or vehicle 3 times per week for 13 weeks. Dexamethasone treatment led to less weight gain during the treatment period without affecting food consumption, as well as to lower glucose levels and high insulin levels compared to vehicle-treated mice. Dexamethasone also reduced cortical bone volume and density. All these effects of dexamethasone were similar between male and female mice, as well as between WT and Nrf2KO mice. Hepatic NRF2 signaling and gluconeogenic gene expression were not affected by dexamethasone. A 2-day dexamethasone treatment was also sufficient to increase insulin levels without affecting body weight and glucose levels. Hence, dexamethasone induces hyperinsulinemia, which potentially leads to decreased glucose levels, as well as osteoporosis, both independently of NRF2.
Implications of Vitamins in COVID-19 Prevention and Treatment through Immunomodulatory and Anti-Oxidative Mechanisms
Authors: Toledano Juan M. , Moreno-Fernandez Jorge , Puche-Juarez María , Ochoa Julio J. , Diaz-Castro Javier
Published: December 2021

Since the appearance of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and its announcement as a global pandemic, the search for prophylactic and therapeutic options have become a priority for governments and the scientific community. The approval of several vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 is being crucial to overcome this situation, although the victory will not be achieved while the whole population worldwide is not protected against the virus. This is why alternatives should be studied in order to successfully support the immune system before and during a possible infection. An optimal inflammatory and oxidative stress status depends on an adequate diet. Poor levels of several nutrients could be related to an impaired immune response and, therefore, an increased susceptibility to infection and serious outcomes. Vitamins exert a number of anti-microbial, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities, which can be of use to fight against this and several other diseases (especially vitamin D and C). Even though they cannot be considered as a definitive therapeutic option, in part owing to the lack of solid conclusions from well-designed clinical trials, currently available evidence from similar respiratory diseases may indicate that it would be rational to deeply explore the use of vitamins during this global pandemic.
A Self-Attention Augmented Graph Convolutional Clustering Networks for Skeleton-Based Video Anomaly Behavior Detection
Authors: Liu Chengming , Fu Ronghua , Li Yinghao , Gao Yufei , Shi Lei , Li Weiwei
Published: December 2021

In this paper, we propose a new method for detecting abnormal human behavior based on skeleton features using self-attention augment graph convolution. The skeleton data have been proved to be robust to the complex background, illumination changes, and dynamic camera scenes and are naturally constructed as a graph in non-Euclidean space. Particularly, the establishment of spatial temporal graph convolutional networks (ST-GCN) can effectively learn the spatio-temporal relationships of Non-Euclidean Structure Data. However, it only operates on local neighborhood nodes and thereby lacks global information. We propose a novel spatial temporal self-attention augmented graph convolutional networks (SAA-Graph) by combining improved spatial graph convolution operator with a modified transformer self-attention operator to capture both local and global information of the joints. The spatial self-attention augmented module is used to understand the intra-frame relationships between human body parts. As far as we know, we are the first group to utilize self-attention for video anomaly detection tasks by enhancing spatial temporal graph convolution. Moreover, to validate the proposed model, we performed extensive experiments on two large-scale publicly standard datasets (i.e., ShanghaiTech Campus and CUHK Avenue datasets) which reveal the state-of-art performance for our proposed approach when compared to existing skeleton-based methods and graph convolution methods.
Effect of Impact and Bearing Parameters on Bird Strike with Aero-Engine Fan Blades
Authors: Wu Bin , Hedayati Reza , Li Zhehua , Aghajanpour Mahsa , Zhang Guichang , Zhang Junhong , Lin Jiewei
Published: December 2021

Bird strikes are one of the most dangerous incidents occurring to aircraft engines and can inflict heavy casualties and economic losses. In this study, a smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) mallard bird model has been used to simulate bird impact to rotary aero-engine fan blades. The simulations were performed using the finite element method (FEM) by means of LS-DYNA. The reliability of the material model and numerical method was verified by comparing the numerical results with Wilbeck’s experimental results. The effects of impact and bearing parameters, including bird impact location, bird impact orientation, initial bird velocity, fan rotational speed, stiffness of the bearing, and the damping of the bearing on the bird impact to aero-engine fan blade are studied and discussed. The results show that both the impact location and bird orientation have significant effects on the bird strike results. Bird impact to blade roots is the most dangerous scenario causing the impact force to reach 390 kN. The most dangerous orientation is the case where the bird’s head is tilted 45° horizontally, which leads to huge fan kinetic energy loss as high as 64.73 kJ. The bird’s initial velocity affects blade deformations. The von Mises stress during the bird strike process can reach 1238 MPa for an initial bird velocity of 225 m/s. The fan’s rotational speed and the bearing stiffness affect the rotor stability significantly. The value of bearing damping has little effect on the bird strike process. This paper presents a procedure for evaluating the strength of fan blades against bird strike in the design stage.
Trabecular Meshwork Motion Profile from Pulsatile Pressure Transients: A New Platform to Simulate Transitory Responses in Humans and Nonhuman Primates
Authors: Xin Chen , Wang Xiaofei , Wang Ningli , Wang Ruikang , Johnstone Murray
Published: December 2021

Trabecular meshwork (TM) motion abnormality is the leading cause of glaucoma. With technique limitations, how TM moves is still an enigma. This study describes a new laboratory platform to investigate TM motion responses to ocular transients in ex vivo eyes. The anterior segments of human cadaver and primate eyes were mounted in a perfusion system fitting. Perfusion needles were placed to establish mean baseline pressure. A perfusion pump was connected to the posterior chamber and generated an immediate transient pressure elevation. A phase-sensitive optical coherent tomography system imaged and quantified the TM motion. The peak-to-peak TM displacements (ppTMD) were determined, a tissue relaxation curve derived, and a time constant obtained. This study showed that the ppTMD increased with a rise in the pulse amplitude. The ppTMD was highest for the lowest mean pressure of 16 mmHg and decreased with mean pressure increase. The pulse frequency did not significantly change ppTMD. With a fixed pulse amplitude, an increase in mean pressure significantly reduced the time constant of recoil from maximum distension. Our research platform permitted quantitation of TM motion responses to designed pulse transients. Our findings may improve the interpretation of new TM motion measurements in clinic, aiding in understanding mechanisms and management.
Assessing the Electrochemical Performance of Different Nanostructured CeO2 Samples as Anodes for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Lamara Farah , Bounar Nedjemeddine , Solsona Benjamín , Llopis Francisco J. , Pico María Pilar , Alonso-Domínguez Daniel , López María Luisa , Álvarez-Serrano Inmaculada
Published: December 2021

In this work, six samples of CeO2 are successfully prepared by diverse synthesis routes leading to different microstructures regarding both morphology and particle size. The structural and microstructural characteristics presented by the samples and their influence on the electrochemical response of the prepared anodes are analyzed. In particular, the Ce-CMK3 sample, synthesized from a mesoporous carbon obtained through a CMK3 silica template, displays an enhanced electrochemical response. Thus, capacity values of ~220 mA h g−1 are obtained at a current rate of 0.155 A g−1 after 50 cycles and an excellent cyclability at intermediate current densities. On the other hand, it is observed that the capacity values are satisfactorily recovered at 0.31 A g−1, displaying ~100 mA h g−1 after 550 cycles and efficiencies close to 100%. The electrochemical performance is interpreted considering the microstructural peculiarities of this anode, which are deeply analyzed.
Genotoxicity of PM2.5 and PM1.0 Particulates on Human Peripheral Blood Lymphocytes in Manila, Philippines
Authors: Estonilo Ma. Katrina Gale , Cazeñas Joedith Anne , Villafuerte Carlos Josef , Deocaris Custer , Caraos Gloriamaris , Robles Gerardo Jose , Galvez Maria Cecilia , Asaad Celia , Vallar Edgar
Published: December 2021

Urban air quality is increasingly being studied as a fraction of the world’s population is living in megacities. In this study, particulate matter (PM) along Taft Avenue, Manila, the Philippines, is investigated in terms of its ability to induce genetic damage in human peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs). Size-segregated roadside air samples were obtained from 2015–2017 near a university gate and analyzed using in vitro micronucleus (MN) and cytokinesis-block proliferation tests. While cellular proliferation was unaffected by 0–0.1 kg/m3 of PM1.0 and PM2.5, PBL cells treated with PM2.5 displayed a significantly higher micronucleus count (p = 0.03) compared to the cells treated with PM1.0. Atomic absorption spectroscopy revealed greater amounts of Cd, Ca, Pb, K, Na, and Zn in PM2.5 compared to PM1.0. The results indicate that the differences in composition of the two size fractions of air particulates are associated with their genotoxicities.
Chemical Composition and Source Apportionment of PM2.5 in a Border City in Southwest China
Authors: Shi Jianwu , Zhao Chenyang , Wang Zhijun , Pang Xiaochen , Zhong Yaoqian , Han Xinyu , Ning Ping
Published: December 2021

This paper studied the chemical characteristics and seasonal changes of PM2.5 in plateau cities on the southwest border of China. Urban air was sampled in Baoshan City during the rainy and dry seasons. Finally, 174 PM2.5 filters were collected (including 87 quartz and 87 Teflon samples for PM2.5). The mass concentrations, water-soluble inorganic ions, organic and inorganic carbon concentrations, and inorganic elements constituting PM2.5 were determined. Positive definite matrix factorization was used to identify potential sources of PM2.5, and the backward trajectory model was used to calculate the contribution of the long-distance transmission of air particles to the Baoshan area. It was found that in the wet season, most of the air masses come from the Indian Ocean and Myanmar. In the dry season, the air mass mainly comes from the China and Myanmar border area. The average concentration of PM2.5 in the wet and dry seasons was 23.17 ± 12.23 μg/m3. The daily mean value of OC/EC indicated that the measured SOC content was generated by the photochemical processes active during the sampling days. However, elements from anthropogenic sources (Na, Mg, Al, Si, P, K, Ca, Ti, Fe, Cu, Zn, Sb, Ba, and Pb) accounted for 99.51% and 99.40% of the total inorganic elements in the wet season and dry season, respectively. Finally, source apportionment showed that SIA, dust, industry, biomass burning, motor vehicle emissions, and copper smelting emissions constituted the major contributions of PM2.5 in Baoshan. Using combined data from three measurement sites provides a focus on the common sources affecting all locations.
ILeukin10Pred: A Computational Approach for Predicting IL-10-Inducing Immunosuppressive Peptides Using Combinations of Amino Acid Global Features
Authors: Singh Onkar , Hsu Wen-Lian , Su Emily Chia-Yu
Published: December 2021

Interleukin (IL)-10 is a homodimer cytokine that plays a crucial role in suppressing inflammatory responses and regulating the growth or differentiation of various immune cells. However, the molecular mechanism of IL-10 regulation is only partially understood because its regulation is environment or cell type-specific. In this study, we developed a computational approach, ILeukin10Pred (interleukin-10 prediction), by employing amino acid sequence-based features to predict and identify potential immunosuppressive IL-10-inducing peptides. The dataset comprises 394 experimentally validated IL-10-inducing and 848 non-inducing peptides. Furthermore, we split the dataset into a training set (80%) and a test set (20%). To train and validate the model, we applied a stratified five-fold cross-validation method. The final model was later evaluated using the holdout set. An extra tree classifier (ETC)-based model achieved an accuracy of 87.5% and Matthew’s correlation coefficient (MCC) of 0.755 on the hybrid feature types. It outperformed an existing state-of-the-art method based on dipeptide compositions that achieved an accuracy of 81.24% and an MCC value of 0.59. Our experimental results showed that the combination of various features achieved better predictive performance..
Increasing Step Rate Affects Rearfoot Kinematics and Ground Reaction Forces during Running
Authors: Farina Kathryn A. , Hahn Michael E.
Published: December 2021

Relatively high frontal and transverse plane motion in the lower limbs during running have been thought to play a role in the development of some running-related injuries (RRIs). Increasing step rate has been shown to significantly alter lower limb kinematics and kinetics during running. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of increasing step rate on rearfoot kinematics, and to confirm how ground reaction forces (GRFs) are adjusted with increased step rate. Twenty runners ran on a force instrumented treadmill while marker position data were collected under three conditions. Participants ran at their preferred pace and step rate, then +5% and +10% of their preferred step rate while being cued by a metronome for three minutes each. Sagittal and frontal plane angles for the rearfoot segment, tibial rotation, and GRFs were calculated during the stance phase of running. Significant decreases were observed in sagittal and frontal plane rearfoot angles, tibial rotation, vertical GRF, and anteroposterior GRF with increased step rate compared with the preferred step rate. Increasing step rate significantly decreased peak sagittal and frontal plane rearfoot and tibial rotation angles. These findings may have implications for some RRIs and gait retraining.
Plasma Leptin Is Increased in Intensive Care Patients with COVID-19—An Investigation Performed in the PronMed-Cohort
Authors: Larsson Anders , Lipcsey Miklós , Hultström Michael , Frithiof Robert , Eriksson Mats
Published: December 2021

COVID-19 has shaken the world and intensive care units (ICU) have been challenged by numerous patients suffering from a previously unknown disease. Leptin is a polypeptide pleiotropic hormone, mainly expressed by adipocytes. It acts as a proinflammatory cytokine and is associated with several conditions, known to increase the risk of severe COVID-19. Very little is known about leptin in severe viral disorders. Plasma leptin was analyzed in 222 out of 229 patients with severe COVID-19 on admission to an ICU at Uppsala University Hospital, a tertiary care hospital in Sweden, and compared to plasma leptin in 25 healthy blood donors. COVID-19 was confirmed by positive PCR. Leptin levels were significantly higher in patients with COVID-19 (18.3 ng × mL−1; IQR = 30.4), than in healthy controls (7.8 ng × mL−1; IQR = 6.4). Women had significantly higher leptin values (22.9 ng × mL−1; IQR = 29.8) than men (17.5 ng × mL−1; IQR = 29.9). Mortality at 30 days was 23% but was not associated with increased leptin levels. Neither median duration of COVID-19 before admission to ICU (10 days; IQR = 4) or median length of ICU stay (8 days; IQR = 11) correlated with the plasma leptin levels. Leptin levels in COVID-19 were higher in females than in males. Both treatment (e.g., use of corticosteroids) and prophylaxis (vaccines) have been improved since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, which may contribute to some difficulties in deciphering relations between COVID-19 and leptin.
Fatty Acid Synthase Inhibitor Platensimycin Intervenes the Development of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in a Mouse Model
Authors: Su Meng , Cao Danfeng , Wang Zhe , Duan Yanwen , Huang Yong
Published: December 2021

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a chronic liver disease affecting about 25% of world population, while there are still no approved targeted therapies. Although platensimycin (PTM) was first discovered to be a broad-spectrum antibiotic, it was also effective against type II diabetes in animal models due to its ability to inhibit both bacterial and mammalian fatty acid synthases (FASN). Herein, we report the pharmacological effect and potential mode of action of PTM against NAFLD in a Western diet/CCI4-induced mouse model and a free fatty acids (FFAs)-induced HepG2 cell model. The proper dose of PTM and its liposome-based nano-formulations not only significantly attenuated the Western diet-induced weight gain and the levels of plasma total triglycerides and glucose, but reduced liver steatosis in mice according to histological analyses. Western blotting analysis showed a reduced protein level of FASN in the mouse liver, suggesting that PTM intervened in the development of NAFLD through FASN inhibition. PTM reduced both the protein and mRNA levels of FASN in FFAs-induced HepG2 cells, as well as the expression of several key proteins in lipogenesis, including sterol regulatory element binding protein-1, acetyl-CoA carboxylase, and stearoyl-CoA desaturase. The expression of lipid oxidation-related genes, including peroxisome proliferator activated receptor α and acyl-CoA oxidase 1, was significantly elevated. In conclusion, our study supports the reposition of PTM to intervene in NAFLD progression, since it could effectively inhibit de novo lipogenesis.
Combination of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors and Liver-Specific Therapies in Liver-Metastatic Uveal Melanoma: Can We Thus Overcome Its High Resistance?
Authors: Blomen Chiara L. , Kött Julian , Hartung Tabea I. , Torster Leopold K. , Gebhardt Christoffer
Published: December 2021

Uveal Melanoma (UM) is a rare disease; however, it is the most common primary intraocular malignant tumor in adults. Hematogenous metastasis, occurring in up to 50% of cases, mainly to the liver (90%), is associated with poor clinical course and treatment failure. In contrast to dramatic benefits of immunotherapy in many tumor entities, as seen in cutaneous melanoma, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) do not achieve comparable results in Metastatic UM (MUM). The aim of this study was to investigate whether the combination of ICI with liver-directed therapies provides a potential survival benefit for those affected. This retrospective, single-center study, including n = 45 patients with MUM, compared the effect of combining ICI with liver-directed therapy (“Cohort 1”) with respect to standard therapies (“Cohort 2”) on overall survival (OS). Our results revealed a significant survival difference between Cohort 1 (median OS 22.5 months) and Cohort 2 (median OS 11.4 months), indicating that this combination may enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy and thus provide a survival benefit. There is an urgent need for randomized, prospective trials addressing the combination of liver-directed therapies and various strategies of immunotherapy (such as ICI; IMCgp100; personalized vaccines) in order to establish regimens which finally improve the prognosis of patients with MUM.
High Antitumor Activity of the Dual Topoisomerase Inhibitor P8-D6 in Breast Cancer
Authors: Flörkemeier Inken , Steinhauer Tamara N. , Hedemann Nina , Weimer Jörg Paul , Rogmans Christoph , van Mackelenbergh Marion T. , Maass Nicolai , Clement Bernd , Bauerschlag Dirk O.
Published: December 2021

Breast cancer constitutes the leading cause of cancer deaths among females. However, numerous shortcomings, including low bioavailability, resistance and significant side effects, are responsible for insufficient treatment. The ultimate goal, therefore, is to improve the success rates and, thus, the range available treatment options for breast cancer. Consequently, the identification, development and evaluation of potential novel drugs such as P8-D6 with seminal antitumor capacities have a high clinical need. P8-D6 effectively induces apoptosis by acting as a dual topoisomerase I/II inhibitor. This study provides an overview of the effectiveness of P8-D6 in breast cancer with both 2D monolayers and 3D spheroids compared to standard therapeutic agents. For this drug effectiveness review, cell lines and ex vivo primary cells were used and cytotoxicity, apoptosis rates and membrane integrity were examined. This study provides evidence for a significant P8-D6-induced increase in apoptosis and cytotoxicity in breast cancer cells compared to the efficacy of standard therapeutic drugs. To sum up, P8-D6 is a fast and powerful inductor of apoptosis and might become a new and suitable therapeutic option for breast cancer in the future.
Shared Gene Expression and Immune Pathway Changes Associated with Progression from Nevi to Melanoma
Authors: Borden Elizabeth S. , Adams Anngela C. , Buetow Kenneth H. , Wilson Melissa A. , Bauman Julie E. , Curiel-Lewandrowski Clara , Chow H.-H. Sherry , LaFleur Bonnie J. , Hastings Karen Taraszka
Published: December 2021

There is a need to identify molecular biomarkers of melanoma progression to assist the development of chemoprevention strategies to lower melanoma incidence. Using datasets containing gene expression for dysplastic nevi and melanoma or melanoma arising in a nevus, we performed differential gene expression analysis and regularized regression models to identify genes and pathways that were associated with progression from nevi to melanoma. A small number of genes distinguished nevi from melanoma. Differential expression of seven genes was identified between nevi and melanoma in three independent datasets. C1QB, CXCL9, CXCL10, DFNA5 (GSDME), FCGR1B, and PRAME were increased in melanoma, and SCGB1D2 was decreased in melanoma, compared to dysplastic nevi or nevi that progressed to melanoma. Further supporting an association with melanomagenesis, these genes demonstrated a linear change in expression from benign nevi to dysplastic nevi to radial growth phase melanoma to vertical growth phase melanoma. The genes associated with melanoma progression showed significant enrichment of multiple pathways related to the immune system. This study demonstrates (1) a novel application of bioinformatic approaches to aid clinical trials of melanoma chemoprevention and (2) the feasibility of determining a gene signature biomarker of melanomagenesis.
Prognostic Significance of SLFN11 Methylation in Plasma Cell-Free DNA in Advanced High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Tserpeli Victoria , Stergiopoulou Dimitra , Londra Dora , Giannopoulou Lydia , Buderath Paul , Balgkouranidou Ioanna , Xenidis Nikolaos , Grech Christina , Obermayr Eva , Zeillinger Robert , Pavlakis Kitty , Rampias Theodoros , Kakolyris Stylianos , Kasimir-Bauer Sabine , Lianidou Evi S.
Published: December 2021

Background: Epigenetic alterations in ctDNA are highly promising as a source of novel potential liquid biopsy biomarkers and comprise a very promising liquid biopsy approach in ovarian cancer, for early diagnosis, prognosis and response to treatment. Methods: In the present study, we examined the methylation status of six gene promoters (BRCA1, CST6, MGMT, RASSF10, SLFN11 and USP44) in high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC). We evaluated the prognostic significance of DNA methylation of these six gene promoters in primary tumors (FFPEs) and plasma cfDNA samples from patients with early, advanced and metastatic HGSOC. Results: We report for the first time that the DNA methylation of SLFN11 in plasma cfDNA was significantly correlated with worse PFS (p = 0.045) in advanced stage HGSOC. Conclusions: Our results strongly indicate that SLFN11 epigenetic inactivation could be a predictor of resistance to platinum drugs in ovarian cancer. Our results should be further validated in studies based on a larger cohort of patients, in order to further explore whether the DNA methylation of SLFN11 promoter could serve as a potential prognostic DNA methylation biomarker and a predictor of resistance to platinum-based chemotherapy in ovarian cancer.