bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proteomic analysis of human iPSC derived neural stem cells and motor neurons identifies proteasome structural alterations.
Authors: Álvarez Iñaki , Tirado-Herranz Adrián , Palomo Belén Alvarez , Osete Jordi Requena , Edel Michael John
Published: October 2023

Background: Proteins targeted by the Ubiquitin Proteasome System (UPS) are identified for degradation by the proteasome, which has been implicated in the development of neuro-degenerative diseases. Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules present peptides broken down by the proteasome and are involved in neuronal plasticity, regulating synapse number and axon regeneration in the central or peripheral nervous system during develop-ment and in brain diseases. The mechanisms governing these effects are mostly unknown, but evidence from different compartments of the cerebral cortex indicates the presence of im-mune-like MHC receptors in the central nervous system.

Methods: We have used human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) differentiated to neural stem cells and then to motor neurons as a developmental model to better understand the structure of the proteasome in developing motor neurons. We perform a proteomic analysis of starting human skin fibroblasts, their matching iPSC, differentiated neural stem cells and motor neurons that highlighted significant differences in the constitutive proteasome and immunoproteasome subunits during development towards motor neurons from iPSC.

Results: Proteomic analysis showed that the catalytic proteasome subunits expressed in fi-broblasts differ to those in neural stem cells and motor neurons. Western blot analysis con-firmed the proteomic data, particularly the decreased expression of Beta5i (PSMB8) subunit immunoproteasome.

Conclusion: The constitutive proteasome subunits are upregulated in iPSC from HFF and the immunoproteasome subunit beta 5i expression is higher in MN than NSC suggesting a im-munoproteasome phenotype in MN. The immunoproteasome may have implications on motor neuron development and neurodevelopmental diseases that warrants further investi-gation.
Prediction of Oxygen Distribution in Silos and Chambers Filled with Various Agricultural Commodities
Authors: Kaloudis Efstathios , Agrafioti Paraskevi , Athanassiou Christos G.
Published: October 2023

In the context of post-harvest pest management in agricultural products, the adoption of modified atmospheres presents an eco-friendly alternative to conventional pesticides. This study focuses on nitrogen gas as a potential agent for insect control in stored commodities, utilizing computational simulations to investigate its penetration and distribution within two common storage configurations: chamber-contained pallets and silos. By employing the convection-diffusion equation, the simulations reveal insights into nitrogen distribution dynamics and duration required for oxygen reduction. The results highlight the influence of boundary conditions, commodity porosity, and convection effects on nitrogen dispersion. In chamber scenarios, boundary condition type significantly affects oxygen reduction time, while in silos, convection and diffusion interact to establish a consistent diffusion layer thickness. This research enhances the understanding of modified atmosphere techniques and their potential for sustainable pest management. It provides practitioners with valuable quantitative insights, paving the way for optimized modified atmosphere strategies in real-world agricultural contexts.
Exploring the Molecular Underpinnings of Cancer-Causing Oncohistone Mutants Using Yeast as a Model
Authors: Zhang Xinran , Fawwal Dorelle V. , Spangle Jennifer M. , Corbett Anita H. , Jones Celina Y.
Published: October 2023

Understanding the molecular basis of cancer initiation and progression is critical to develop effective treatment strategies. Recently, mutations in genes encoding histone proteins have been identified that drive oncogenesis, converting these essential proteins into “oncohistones”. Understanding how oncohistone mutations, which are commonly missense mutations, subvert the normal function of histones to drive oncogenesis requires defining the functional consequences of such changes. Histones genes are present in multiple copies in the human genome with 15 genes encoding histone H3 isoforms, the histone for which the majority of oncohistone variants have been analyzed thus far. With so many histone genes, engineering human cell lines that assess changes induced by sole expression of the oncohistone variant is technically challenging. In contrast to humans, budding and fission yeast contain only two or three histone H3 genes, respectively. Furthermore, yeast histones share ~90% sequence identity with human H3 protein. The genetic simplicity and evolutionary conservation make yeast an excellent model for characterizing oncohistones. The power of genetic approaches can also be exploited in yeast models to define cellular signaling pathways that could serve as actionable therapeutic targets. In this review, we focus on the value of yeast models to serve as a discovery tool that can inform subsequent translational studies in humans.
Utilizing Syzygium cumini Seed Waste as a Sustainable Antioxidant Additive in PLA-PCL-Nanochitosan Active Packaging: Eco-Friendly Food Preservation
Authors: Salim Suryani , Rihayat teuku , Salim fitria , Safitri Aida
Published: October 2023

The objective of this study is to investigate the viability of employing waste derived from Syzygium cumini seeds as an environmentally sustainable antioxidant adjunct within the framework of PLA-PCL-Nanochitosan active packaging for food preservation. The method involves the manufacturing of a food packaging film by combining a PLA/PCL polymer blend with chloroform, followed by an evaporation process. This polymer blend is subsequently mixed with an extract derived from Syzygium cumini seed waste and nano chitosan. The mechanical mixing process takes 45 minutes and is carried out at a temperature of 160°C. The results of this study show that the active film has excellent mechanical properties, and an even surface texture, and was able to significantly reduce S. aureus colony counts by up to 98%. Active packaging film is also able to maintain pH and total volatile basic nitrogen (TVBN) in chicken breast.
Progressive Lower extremity Paralysis Caused by Intrathecal MTX-induced Myelopathy mimicking Guillain-Barre Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Lee Eun Chae , Lee Don Gyu
Published: October 2023

Methotrexate (MTX) is commonly used in intrathecal chemotherapy for patients with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) to prevent central nervous system (CNS) involvement. However, the use of MTX-based chemotherapy can lead to rare yet severe complications, such as MTX-induced myelopathy. Here we report the case of MTX-induced myelopathy initially misdiagnosed as Guillain-Barre syndrome, leading to a delay in diagnosis and treatment. We present a case of a 39-year-old male with a history of B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) who experienced bilateral foot paresthesia and progressive lower extremity weakness after intrathecal methotrexate (MTX) treatment. Initially suspected as Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) due to similar clinical features and nerve conduction studies. The patient received intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) treatment, but his condition worsened. A subsequent spine MRI revealed MTX-induced myelopathy. This case highlights the diagnostic challenge posed by the similarity in clinical presentation between MTX-induced myelopathy and GBS. Differentiating between these conditions is critical for appropriate management. Prompt recognition and treatment with folate metabolism compounds may mitigate neurological sequelae.
Phytoremediation Effectiveness of Marginalized Vegetation as Green Bio-Filter of Particulate Matters in The Southwestern of Japan (Fukuoka)
Authors: Hammad Duha S , Frantisek Miksik , Thu Kyaw , Takahiko Miyazaki
Published: October 2023

Spectacularly, particulate matter pollution influences human health by aggravating numerous diseases and causing premature deaths. In order to eliminate its concentration in the ambient air, plant species can act as natural bio-filters and capture, degrade, and metabolize air pollutants inside their foliage. In a study carried out at three sites with different pollution levels and plant types. The immobilization efficiency of Particulate Matter (PM) was investigated in the leaves of three species (shrub, climber, and herb) in the southwestern of Japan with a time gap of 14 days. Two healthy mature leaf samples of each specimen were carefully collected and analyzed using the gravimetric analytical method. A significant quantity of PM in three-size fractions with aerodynamic diameters ranging between (0.1-100 μm) was captured inside the leaf foliage of the analyzed species. Fine particles (2.5 -10 μm) dominated the highest portion of the PM deposition captured by the analyzed species with 70.6 μg.cm-2(39.5%). Shrub species represented with Elaeagnus pungens proved to be the most efficient species among the analyzed species. Leaf traits such as grooves, trichomes, roughness, and margin are considered key factors associated with positive PM deposition, whereas the total surface area of the leaves had no direct correlation to PM deposition.
Analytical Solutions and Case Studies on Stress-Dependent Corrosion in Pressurized Spherical Vessels
Authors: Liu Cheng Huijuan , Lacidogna Giuseppe
Published: October 2023

In this paper we overview all analytical engineering solutions for corrosion problems in pressure vessels delivered over the past 60 years. We briefly detail strengths and weaknesses of existing approaches, thus demonstrating the need for novel uniform corrosion analysis methods for both current and new applications. To complement the review, we also present a new analytical model allowing to estimate the lifetime of pressured elastic vessels with mechanically assisted corrosion. Both internal/external pressure and internal/external corrosion are captured and dissolution driven corrosion is also considered. The readily implemented method improves existing analytical approaches and is shown to be effective for thin and thick shells, as well as various loading and corrosion intensity and geometrical conditions.
A New Ready-to-Eat Produce Based on Enzymatically Peeled ‘Hernandina’ Clementine Segments and Citrus Syrup
Authors: Díaz-Mula Huertas M. , López Juan P. , Serrano María , Pretel María T.
Published: October 2023

Ready-to-eat fresh fruit have an increasing presence in international markets due to its convenience and health benefits. However, these produces are highly perishable and efficient technologies to increase their shelf life are needed. In the present research, different citrus fruit species and cultivars from organic farming were assayed to obtain enzymatically citrus segments. The best results in terms of segment quality were observed for ‘Hernandina’ clementine which was chosen to make a new ready-to-eat produce based on peeled citrus segments packaged in glass jars with slight syrup made on citrus juice and organic sugar cane. The most appreciated syrup was those containing 50-50 (v/v) of ‘Fino’ lemon juice and ‘Hernandina’ clementine based on the sensory scores given by the panellists. In addition, different pasteurization treatments were assayed to preserve the new produce safety and nutritional and sensory quality properties during storage at cold temperature. Results showed that pasteurization treatment at 50 °C for 45 min could be enough to avoid microbial contamination with mesophilic and psychrophilic aerobic bacteria or yeast and mould and to maintain sensory properties until five weeks of storage at 4 °C. In addition, only a 10 % reduction of vitamin C was observed from fresh segments or syrup until the end of storage period, showing that the new ready-to-eat produce would conserve high bioactive compound content and health benefits after pasteurization and prolonged cold storage.
Exploration of the Noncoding Genome for Human-Specific Therapeutic Targets – Recent Insights at Molecular and Cellular Level
Authors: Poller Wolfgang , Sahoo Susmita , Hajjar Roger , Landmesser Ulf , Krichevsky Anna
Published: October 2023

While it is well known that 98-99% of the human genome do not encode proteins, but are nevertheless transcriptionally active and give rise to a broad spectrum of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) with complex regulatory and structural functions, specific functions have so far been assigned to only a tiny fraction of all known transcripts. On the other hand, the striking observation of an overwhelmingly growing fraction of ncRNAs, in contrast to an only modest increase in the number of protein-coding genes, during evolution from simple organisms to humans, strongly suggests critical but so far essentially unexplored roles of the noncoding genome for human health and disease pathogenesis. Research into the vast realm of the noncoding genome during the past decades thus lead to a profoundly enhanced appreciation of the multi-level complexity of the human genome. Here, we address a few of the many huge remaining knowledge gaps and consider some newly emerging questions and concepts of research. We attempt to provide an up-to-date assessment of recent insights obtained by molecular and cell biological methods, and by the application of systems biology approaches. Specifically, we discuss current data regarding two questions: (1) By which mechanisms could evolutionary recent ncRNAs with critical regulatory functions in a broad spectrum of cell types (neural, immune, cardiovascular) constitute novel thera-peutic targets in human diseases ? (2) Since noncoding genome evolution is causally linked to brain evolution, and given the pro-found interactions between brain and immune system, could human-specific brain-expressed ncRNAs play a direct or indirect (immune-mediated) role in human diseases? Synergistic with the remarkable recent progress regarding delivery, efficacy, and safety of nu-cleic acid-based therapies, the ongoing large-scale exploration of the noncoding genome for human-specific therapeutic targets is encouraging to proceed with the development and clinical evaluation of novel therapeutic pathways suggested by these research fields.
Chromophore Targeting Precision Phototherapy
Authors: Jusuf Sebastian , Dong Pu-Ting
Published: October 2023

Over the past few decades, phototherapy, encompassing the utilization of both natural and artificial light, has emerged as a dependable and non-invasive strategy for addressing a diverse range of illnesses, diseases, and infections. This therapeutic approach, primarily known for its efficacy in treating skin infections such as herpes and acne lesions, involves the synergistic use of specific light wavelengths and photosensitizers like methylene blue. Photodynamic therapy, as it is termed, relies on the generation of antimicrobial reactive oxygen species (ROS) through the interaction between light and externally applied photosensitizers. Recent research, however, has highlighted the intrinsic antimicrobial properties of light itself, marking a paradigm shift in focus from exogenous agents to the inherent photosensitivity of molecules found naturally within pathogens. Chemical analyses have identified specific organic molecular structures and systems, including porphyrins and conjugated C=C bonds, as pivotal components in molecular photosensitivity. Given the prevalence of these systems in organic life forms, there is an urgent need to investigate the potential impact of phototherapy on individual molecules expressed within pathogens and discern their contributions to the antimicrobial effects of light. This review delves into the recently unveiled key molecular targets of phototherapy, offering insights into their potential downstream implications and therapeutic applications. By shedding light on these fundamental molecular mechanisms, we aim to advance our understanding of phototherapy's broader therapeutic potential and contribute to the development of innovative treatments for a wide array of microbial infections and diseases.
Nutritional Intervention in Cushing’s Disease: The Ketogenic Diet Effects on Metabolic Comorbidities and Adrenal Steroids
Authors: Guarnotta Valentina , Amodei Roberta , Gaudio Francesca Di , Giordano Carla
Published: October 2023

Background: Very low-calorie ketogenic diet (VLCKD) is associated with improvement of metabolic and cardiovascular disorders. We aimed to evaluate the effects of VLCKD in patients with Cushing’s disease (CD) as adjunctive therapy to treatment for primary disease. Methods: We evaluated clinical, hormonal and metabolic parameters in 15 patients with CD and 15 controls at baseline and after 1 week and 3 weeks of VLCKD and further 2 weeks of low-carbohydrate ketogenic diet (LCKD). Results: After 5 weeks of diet a significant decrease in BMI (p=0.002), waist circumference (WC) (p=0.024), systolic (p=0.015) and diastolic blood pressure (p=0.005), ACTH (p=0.026), cortisone (p=0.025), total (p=0.006) and LDL cholesterol (p=0.017), triglycerides (p=0.016), alkaline phosphatase (p=0.008) and a significant increase in HDL cholesterol (p=0.017), vitamin D (p=0.015) and oral disposition index (Dio)(p=0.004) was observed in CD. A significant decrease in BMI (p=0.003), WC (p=0.002), systolic (p=0.025) and diastolic (p=0.007) blood pressure and total cholesterol (p=0.026) and increase in HDL cholesterol (p=0.001) and DIo (p<0.001) was observed in controls. Conclusions: The current study confirms that ketogenic diet is effective in improving metabolic disorders and shows that a nutritional approach may be combined with conventional CD therapy in order to improve metabolic and cardiovascular comorbidities.
Room-Temperature Synthesis of Carbon Nanotubes-Interconnected Amorphous NiFe Layered Double Hydroxides for Boosting Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Chen Zhuo , Qu Qiang , Li Xinsheng , Srinivas Katam , Chen Yuanfu , Zhu Ming-qiang
Published: October 2023

Oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is a key half-reaction in electrocatalytic water splitting. Large-scale water electrolysis is hampered by the commercial precious metal-based OER electrocatalysts owing to their high cost and slow kinetics. To address these issues, we present a facile one-pot room-temperature coprecipitation method to quickly synthesize carbon nanotubes-interconnected amorphous NiFe-layered double hydroxides (NiFe-LDH@CNT) as low-cost, efficient and stable OER electrocatalyst. NiFe-LDH@CNT hybrid catalyst delivers outstanding OER performance with a low onset overpotential of 255 mV and a small Tafel slope of 51.2 mV dec-1, as well as outstanding long-term stability. The terrific catalytic capability of NiFe-LDH@CNT can be associated with the synergistic effects of its room-temperature synthesized amorphous structure, bi-metallic modulation, and conductive CNT skeleton. The room-temperature synthesis can not only offer economic feasibility, but also obtain amorphous NiFe-LDH without crystalline boundaries, facilitating long-term stability during OER process. The bi-metallic nature of NiFe-LDH guarantees a modified electronic structure, providing additional catalytic sites. Simultaneously, the highly conductive CNT network fosters a nanoporous structure, facilitating electron transfer, O2 release and enriching catalytic sites. This study presents a strategy to purposefully design nanoarchitecture and facilely synthesize amorphous transition metal-based OER catalysts, ensuring the cost effectiveness, production efficiency, and long-term stability.
PBEMS: A Permissioned Blockchain-based Equipment Maintenance System in Smart Manufacturing
Authors: Assaqty Mohammad Iqbal Saryuddin , Gao Ying , Alfatemi Ali , Nabawi Fezan , Fahlevi Mohammad Reza
Published: October 2023

Various equipment has a very vital function in smart manufacturing that affects the production process. For this reason, it is necessary to maintain them to ensure their availability and health. Maintenance is important to minimize loss due to production problems such as breakdown stoppages, output or quality degradation, and resource consumption increase. Smart device maintenance can be carried out by the device owners themselves, but it often requires various parties involved such as device manufacturers, component suppliers, or third-party maintenance services. Maintenance cooperation involving various parties requires a secure and reliable platform for communication between parties as well as communication with the smart manufacturing devices. In this paper, we propose a permissioned blockchain-based maintenance system that can provide better security and reliability than traditional cloud-based systems.
PERTIMBANGAN HAKIM DALAM MENILAI SAKSI MAHKOTA PADA TINDAK PIDANA MEMBANTU MELAKUKAN PEMBUNUHAN BERENCANA
Authors: Razzak Icha Hanifah , Dewi Putri Maha
Published: October 2023

This study aims to determine whether the crown witness was considered by the judge in proving the crime of assisting premeditated murder in Decision Number 41/Pid.B/2021/PN Bil. This research is a normative legal research that is prescriptive and applied. This research uses a case approach. The legal materials used are primary legal materials and secondary legal materials. The legal material collection technique used in this legal research is literature study. The results of this study indicate that in Decision Number 41/Pid.B/2021/PN Bil, the crown witness was considered by the judge. The use of crown witnesses is allowed while still observing the provisions in submitting crown witnesses. These provisions are the separation of case files, lack of evidence, and criminal acts in the form of participation. The judge's consideration in Decision Number 41/Pid.B/2021/PN Bil which uses a crown witness is in accordance with the provisions of the Criminal Procedure Code. Based on the evidence submitted by the public prosecutor which was strengthened by the testimony of the crown witness, the judge was convinced that the criminal act had actually occurred and the defendant was the one guilty of committing it. The use of crown witnesses in this case was able to facilitate the judge in imposing punishment on the defendant who helped commit premeditated murder.
Keywords: Crown Witness; Evidence; Judge's Consideration
Анализ динамики эпидемического процесса COVID-19 в мире за неделю с 07.10.2023 г. по 13.10.2023 г.
Authors: Зимирова Анастасия , Поспелов Михаил , Иванова Александра , Дмитриева Людмила , Чумачкова Елена , Карнаухов Игорь , Щербакова Светлана , Кутырев Владимир
Published: October 2023

В обзоре представлен анализ эпидемиологической ситуации в странах мира по COVID-19 за неделю с 07.10.2023 г. по 13.10.2023 г.
Growth Arrest in Type IV Osteogenesis Imperfecta After Fassier-Duval Rod Insertion Treated by a Lengthening Magnetic Intramedullary Nail
Authors: Burton Michael G. , Bujnowski Daniel , Smith Peter A.
Published: October 2023

Case:

A child with Type IV Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) sustained a growth arrest of the distal femur after fixation of a left femur fracture with a Fassier-Duval expanding rod at 3 years old. Despite bar resection with fat interposition, the discrepancy progressed to 7.5 cm at maturity. Because the femur had grown to a sufficient diameter, he underwent successful lengthening with a magnetic intramedullary rod.

Conclusion:

Although it is a potential complication, growth arrest has not been reported in association with placement of an expanding nail in a child with osteogenesis imperfecta. This case illustrates this rare complication and treatment using a magnetic intramedullary rod.
Modelling of Functional Interaction of Hybrid Energy Storage System Battery Units
Authors: Dobrego K. V. , Koznacheev I. A.
Published: October 2023

Optimization of technical and economic parameters of electric power storage devices is a necessary condition for their widespread use. The article develops a general approach and proposes a methodology for assessing the economic efficiency of hybridization of electrochemical energy storage systems (ESSs). From the point of view of evaluating the effectiveness of storage hybridization, a number of model systems operating under different load conditions using different block functional interaction schemes are being investigated. Lead-acid batteries supplemented with lithium-ion batteries; lead-acid batteries supplemented with supercapacitors and lithium-ion batteries supplemented with supercapacitors are considered as the basic types of hybrid storage devices. An electric forklift, a 30-apartment residential building, as well as a 300-apartment residential complex are considered as the load of the ESS. A quantitative and qualitative model for evaluating the effectiveness of hybridization is used, based on comparing the cost of buffering electricity by each type of battery and the hybrid drive as a whole. For all cases, economic indicators characterizing the cost of buffering electricity by hybrid ESSs are calculated and the advantages of a particular scheme of interaction of hybrid ESS blocks are analyzed. It is shown that the hybridization efficiency demonstrates a complex nonlinear dependence on the degree of hybridization, the type of which depends both on the type of batteries used and on the nature of the load schedule, as well as on the type of functional interaction of the blocks. A specific feature of this dependence is a sharp increase in economic efficiency at small values of a £ 0.01 and a further slowdown in the growth or fall of the graph. The obtained results make it possible to quantitatively compare the efficiency of the hybridization of the ESS for specific conditions of its operation. The considered models and methods can be used in the design of ESSs and “generator – storage – consumer” systems, assessment of the economic feasibility of hybridization of ESSs.
Minimizing of Renewable Energy Sources Impact on the Energy System Operation by the Joint Use of Solar and Wind Generation
Authors: Liubchyk V. A. , Bystrykh S. V. , Kazak A. N.
Published: October 2023

The purpose of the study was to test the hypothesis of the existence of an optimal ratio of the installed capacity of solar and wind power plants, which allows, with a large installed capacity of renewable energy sources with a variable nature of operation, to minimize the impact of their generation on the operation of the power system and reduce the capacity of energy storage devices when they are used in the system. The following tasks were set: on the basis of meteorological data, to calculate hourly energy generation by complexes of solar and wind power plants of various combinations of capacities for several years, analyze the generation and, if the hypothesis is confirmed, find the optimal ratio of capacities. In the course of the study, modeling methods and numerical methods for solving optimization problems were used, viz. the iteration method and the nonlinear least squares method. The optimal range of the ratio of solar and wind power plants installed capacities in a separate complex and in the whole power system for the conditions of the Republic of Belarus was determined, which was 0.4:1–0.6:1 (sun:wind). Complexes of energy sources with a power ratio in the specified range can reduce the required capacity of energy storage systems compared to the capacity for only solar or only wind power plants by 2.6–4.0 times, which leads to a reduction in capital costs and the payback period of the project. Going beyond the recommended range leads to a pronounced surplus or shortage of electricity generation in different periods of the day of different periods of the year, depending on the ratio of installed capacities. Also, the optimal specific capacity of energy storage systems for complexes consisting of solar and wind power plants in the installed capacities recommended ratios was determined, which amounted to 0.4–0.8 kW×h/kW of total installed capacity.
Developing an ANFIS-based Investment Recommender System using Multimodal Neural Network Pretraining
Authors: Asemi Asefeh , Asemi Adeleh , Ko Andrea
Published: October 2023

This article presents an investment recommender system based on an Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) and pre-trained weights from a Multimodal Neural Network. The system takes input from a web-based questionnaire that collects data on investors' preferences and investment goals. The data is then preprocessed and clustered using ETL tools, JMP, MATLAB, and Python. The ANFIS based recommender system is designed with three inputs and one output and trained using a hybrid approach over three epochs with 188 data pairs and 18 fuzzy rules. The system's performance is evaluated using metrics such as RMSE, accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score. The system is also designed to incorporate expert feedback and opinions from investors to customize and improve investment recommendations. The article concludes that the proposed ANFIS-based investment recommender system is effective and accurate in generating investment recommendations that meet investors' preferences and goals.
The effect of struvite fertilization (Crystal Green) on the nutritional value of soybean
Authors: Szuba-Trznadel Anna , Jama-Rodzeńska Anna , Gałka Bernard , Król Zygmunt , Jarki Daniel , Latkovic Dragana
Published: October 2023

One of the main factors considered in assessing the nutritional value of feed is its chemical composition that can be modified by fertilization. Faced with shortening P resources, we are looking for alternative sources of this element. Phosphorus is an essential nutrient in soybean cultivation. Aim of the study was to use alternative source of phosphorus fertilizater compared to traditional one on chemical composition of soybean seeds in a range of nutritional value in animal nutrition as well as basic content of macro- and microelements. Pot experiment with soybean Abellina variety was conducted at the Experimental Station of the Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences comprising two factors: phosphorus fertilizer placement (band, broadcast) and different phosphorus fertilization against the control. Use of struvite (Crystal Green) caused positive changes in selected aminoacids content and in nutritional value of protein in soybean seeds, what can enhence the value of soyabean seeds as well as increase of some of macroelements and microelements. Phosphorus fertilizer increased significantly the content of lysine, leucine, valine, phenyloalanine and tyrosine. Band fertilization with struvite caused a significant increase in amino acids (lysine, leucine, valine, phenyloalanine and tyrosine) as well as nutritional value of protein (Essential Aminoacid Index, Protein Efficiency Ratio and Biological Value of the Protein). Favorable changes under the influence of the application of struvite were recorded in the content of calcium, as well as phosphorus, iron and manganese. Value of the struvite in case of use as phosphorus fertilizer is promising however needs further study.
A highly divergent SARS-CoV-2 lineage B.1.1 sample in a patient with long-term COVID-19
Authors: Nabieva Elena , Komissarov Andrey B. , Klink Galya V. , Zaitsev Stanislav V. , Sergeeva Maria , V Fadeev Artem , Komissarova Kseniya , Ivanova Anna , Pisareva Maria , Kudrya Kira , Danilenko Daria , Lioznov Dmitry , Hisner Ryan , Gueli Federico , Peacock Thomas P , Roemer Cornelius , Bazykin Georgii A
Published: October 2023

We report the genomic analysis of a highly divergent SARS-CoV-2 sample obtained in October 2022 from an HIV+ patient with presumably long-term COVID-19 infection. Phylogenetic analysis indicates that the sample is characterized by a gain of 89 mutations since divergence from its nearest sequenced neighbor, which had been collected in September 2020 and belongs to the B.1.1 lineage, largely extinct in 2022. 33 of these mutations were coding and occurred in the Spike protein. Of these, 17 are lineage-defining in some of the variants of concern (VOCs) or are in sites where another mutation is lineage-defining in a variant of concern, and/or shown to be involved in antibody evasion, and/or detected in other cases of persistent COVID-19; these include some “usual suspects,” such as Spike:L452R, E484Q, K417T, Y453F, and N460K. Molecular clock analysis indicates that mutations in this lineage accumulated at an increased rate compared to the ancestral B.1.1 strain. This increase is driven by the accumulation of nonsynonymous mutations, for an average dN/dS value of 2.2, indicating strong positive selection during within-patient evolution. Additionally, there is reason to believe that the virus had persisted for at least some time in the gastrointestinal tract, as evidenced by the presence of mutations that are rare in the general population samples but common in samples from wastewater. Our analysis adds to the growing body of research on evolution of SARS-CoV-2 in chronically infected patients and its relationship to the emergence of variants of concern.
Assessment of MMP-9 and clinical characteristics in dogs with tracheal collapse based on cough severity and fluoroscopic findings: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Jung Da-Yeon , Park Su-Min , Youn Hwa-Young , Oh Ye-In , Lim Ga-Hyun , Seo Kyoung-Won
Published: October 2023

Background: Tracheal collapse (TC), a common disease in dogs, is characterized by cough; however, little is known about the serum biomarkers that can objectively evaluate the severity of cough in canine TC. Furthermore, studies elucidating the relationship of fluoroscopic characteristics with the severity of cough are lacking. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the relationship between cough severity and clinical characteristics, fluoroscopic images, and new serum biomarkers in canine TC.
Results: Fifty-one client-owned dogs diagnosed with TC based on fluoroscopic and clinical signs were enrolled in this study and divided into three groups according to the severity of cough (grade of cough: 0, 1, and 2). Signalments, comorbidities, and fluoroscopic characteristics were compared among the groups retrospectively. The serum matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), interleukin-6 (IL-6), surfactant protein-A (SP-A), and syndecan-1 (SDC-1) levels were measured in all groups. No significant differences in age, breed, sex, or clinical history were observed among the groups. Concomitant pharyngeal collapse increased significantly with the severity of cough (p = .031). Based on the fluoroscopic characteristics, the TC grade of the carinal region increased significantly and consistently with the grade of cough (p = .03). The serum MMP-9 level was significantly higher in the grade 2 group than that in the grade 0 group (p = .014). The serum IL-6 level was significantly lower in the grade 1 group than that in the grade 0 group (p = .020). The serum SP-A and SDC-1 levels did not differ significantly among the groups.
Conclusions: The severity of cough with the progression of TC can be predicted with the fluoroscopic TC grade at the carinal region. MMP-9 may be used as an objective serum biomarker that represents cough severity to understand the pathogenesis.
HIF-1α/LAPTM5/STAT1 axis promotes the malignant progression of clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Li Yang-ling , Zhang Man-man , Zhang Zuo-yan , Cheng Jing , Xu Wan-yun , Yan Ke-yi , Liu Ye-han , Zhang Huan-qi , Zhang Chong
Published: October 2023

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is the most common type of kidney cell carcinoma with poor prognosis and high mortality. Mutation-mediated inactivation of Von Hippel Lindau (VHL) is a hallmark feature of ccRCC, and it leads to the accumulation of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) and cancer progression. Therefore, further elucidation of the network that regulates the VHL/HIF-1α pathway will provide potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of ccRCC. The results of the current study demonstrated that lysosomal-associated protein transmembrane 5 (LAPTM5) is a novel transcriptional target of HIF-1α and that HIF-1α positively regulates the expression of LAPTM5 in ccRCC cells. Furthermore, the maximum overexpression of LAPTM5 in ccRCC tissues compared with corresponding normal tissues was observed in the pan-cancer analysis. In addition, LAPTM5 overexpression was closely related to metastasis and poor outcomes in ccRCC patients. In addition, LAPTM5 promoted the proliferation, migration and invasion of ccRCC cells. Mechanistically, LAPTM5 regulated the K63-linked ubiquitination of STAT1, enhanced the interaction between STAT1 and JAK2, and induced the phosphorylation of STAT1 at Y701, ultimately promoting the progression of ccRCC. This study reveals a novel HIF-1α/LAPTM5/STAT1 signalling pathway that promotes ccRCC progression and provides potential therapeutic strategies for the treatment of ccRCC.
The clinical effectiveness of a self-management intervention for patients with Persistent Depressive Disorder and their partners/caregivers: results from a multicenter, pragmatic randomized controlled trial.
Authors: Solis Ericka , Carlier Ingrid , Kamminga Noelle , Giltay Erik , Hemert Albert M. Van
Published: October 2023

Background: Persistent depressive disorder (PDD) is prevalent and debilitating. For patients with PDD, psychiatric rehabilitation using self-management interventions is advised as the next therapeutic step after multiple unsuccessful treatment attempts. The “Patient and Partner Education Program for All Chronic Diseases” (PPEP4All) is a brief, structured selfmanagement program that focuses on functional recovery for patients and their partners/caregivers. In chronic somatic disorder populations, PPEP4All has already been shown to be clinically effective. We examined whether PPEP4All adapted for PDD (PPEP4All-PDD, 9 weekly group or individual sessions) is also clinically effective for adults/elderly with PDD and their partners/caregivers compared to care-as-usual (CAU) in specialized mental healthcare.
Methods: In this mixed-method multicenter pragmatic randomized controlled trial, 70 patients with PDD and 14 partners/caregivers were allocated to either PPEP4All-PDD (patients, n = 37; partners/caregivers, n = 14) or CAU (patients, n = 33; partners/caregivers, not included) and completed questionnaires at 0, 3, 6, and 12 months regarding depressive symptoms, psychopathology, psychosocial burden, mental resilience, and happiness/wellbeing. Qualitative data were collected regarding treatment satisfaction. Data were analyzed using mixed model analyses and an intention-to-treat (ITT) approach.
Results: There was no statistically significant difference in any outcome regarding clinical effectiveness between PPEP4All-PDD and CAU. Subgroup analysis for depressive symptoms did not show any interaction effect for any subgroup. Although 78% of participants recommended PPEP4All-PDD, there was no difference in treatment satisfaction between PPEP4All-PDD (score = 6.6; SD = 1.7) and CAU (score = 7.6; SD = 1.2), p = 0.06.
Conclusion: Although depressive symptoms did not improve relative to CAU, this only confirmed that treatment for patients with treatment-resistant PDD should move from symptom reduction to functional recovery. Also, functional recovery may be reflected in other outcomes than psychosocial burden, such as self-empowerment, in patients with treatment-resistant PDD. Future research on PPEP4All-PDD could focus on a longer-term program and/or online program that may also be offered earlier in the treatment process as an empowerment intervention.
Trial Registration: Netherlands Trial Register Identifier NL5818. Registered on 20 July 2016, https://clinicaltrialregister.nl/nl/trial/20302
Strain Engineering of Nonlinear Nanoresonators from Hardening to Softening
Authors: Alijani Farbod , Li Zichao , Xu Minxing , Norte Richard , Aragón Alejandro , Steeneken Peter
Published: October 2023

Although strain engineering and soft-clamping techniques for attaining high Q-factors in nanoresonators have received much attention, their impact on nonlinear dynamics is not fully understood. In this study, we show that nonlinearity of high-Q Si3N4 nanomechanical string resonators can be substantially tuned by support design. Through careful engineering of support geometries, we control both stress and mechanical nonlinearities, effectively tuning nonlinear stiffness over a factor more than 100. Our approach also allows control over the sign of the Duffing constant, turning it negative via buckling, and resulting in nonlinear softening of the mechanical mode that conventionally only exhibits hardening behavior. We elucidate the influence of support design on the magnitude and trend of the nonlinearity using both analytical and finite element-based reduced-order models that accurately validate our experimental findings. Our work not only provides the first evidence of the role of soft-clamping on the nonlinear dynamic response of nanoresonators, but it also offers new possibilities for nullifying or enhancing nonlinearity in a highly reproducible and fully passive manner, appealing to both classical and quantum-limited resonant sensors.
Engineering surface dipoles on mixed conducting oxides with ultra-thin oxide decoration layers
Authors: Siebenhofer Matthaeus , Nenning Andreas , Rameshan Christoph , Blaha Peter , Fleig Juergen , Kubicek Markus
Published: October 2023

Improving materials for energy conversion and storage devices is deeply connected with an optimization of the surfaces of these materials. Surface modification has therefore emerged as a very promising strategy on the way to enhance modern energy technologies. This study shows that surface modification with ultra-thin oxide layers allows for a systematic tailoring of surface properties, in particular of the surface dipole and the work function, and it introduces the ionic potential of surface cations as a readily accessible descriptor for these effects. The combination of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and density functional theory (DFT) illustrates that basic oxides with a lower ionic potential than the host material induce a positive surface charge and reduce the work function of a mixed conducting host material and vice versa. The emerging surface dipoles are caused by changes in the energy landscape, leading to redistribution of electronic charge density and/or a geometric reorientation of the surface. As a proof of concept that this strategy is widely applicable to tailor surface properties, we examined the effect of ultra-thin decoration layers on the oxygen exchange kinetics of pristine thin films of structurally and chemically different mixed conducting oxides in very clean conditions by means of in-situ impedance spectroscopy during pulsed laser deposition (i-PLD). The extended study confirms that basic decorations with a reduced surface work function lead to a substantial acceleration of the oxygen exchange on a material's surface. Computational results suggest that the underlying mechanism of the kinetic improvement relies on a modification of the energetics of charged O2 adsorbates and substantiate their importance for the oxygen exchange reaction.
HMGB1 promotes mitochondrial transfer between hepatocellular carcinoma cells through RHOT1 and RAC1 under hypoxia
Authors: Yan Wei , Jing Mengjia , Xiong Xiaofeng , Mao Xin , Song Qianben , Zhang Lumiao , Ouyang Yiming , Pang Yingzhi , Fu Yu
Published: October 2023

Background
Mitochondrial transfer has been found to play an important role in various diseases, and many mitochondrial biological behaviors can be regulated by HMGB1. However, the role of mitochondrial transfer in HCC and its relationship with HMGB1 are currently unknown.
Method
Field emission scanning electron microscope, immunofluorescence, and cell flow cytometry were used to detect mitochondrial transfer between HCC cells. Analyze the change and significance of related molecules in clinical samples of HCC through bioinformatics analysis and tissue microarrays. The specific mechanism was determined by co-immunoprecipitation, luciferase reporter assay and chromatin immunoprecipitation. Cell metastasis and invasion ability were detected through in vitro cell migration and invasion analysis, as well as in vivo tail vein lung metastasis in mice.
Result
We confirmed the transfer of mitochondria between HCC cells through tunnel nanotubes. The transfer of mitochondria from the higher invasive HCC cells to the lower invasive HCC cells could enhance the migration and invasion ability of the latter, and the hypoxic conditions increased the mitochondria transfer between HCC cells. During this process, RHOT1, as the mitochondrial transport protein, promoted mitochondrial transfer and promoted the migration and metastasis of HCC cells. Under hypoxia, HMGB1 further regulated the expression of RHOT1 by increasing the expression of NFYA and NFYC subunits in the NF-Y complex. RAC1, as the protein associated with the formation of tunnel nanotubes, promoted mitochondrial transfer and also promoted the development of HCC. Besides, HMGB1 regulated RAC1 aggregation to the cell membrane under hypoxia. In clinical samples, patients with high expression of HMGB1, RHOT1, or RAC1 in HCC had the relatively shorter overall survival period.
Conclusion
Under hypoxic conditions, HMGB1 promotes mitochondrial transfer and migration and invasion of HCC cells by increasing the expression of mitochondrial transport protein RHOT1, as well as the expression of tunnel nanotube formation related protein RAC1.
Comparison of the obturator nerve block performed blinded according to the anatomical signs and ultrasound-guided obturator nerve block in patients undergoing transurethral resection: randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yasar Eylem , Uysal Ali İhsan , Akarken İlker , Altıparmak Başak , Demirbilek Semra Gumus
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUNDː It has been reported that obturator nerve block application before transurethral resection operation in bladder lateral wall tumors provides a safer surgical field and reduces tumor recurrence and complete resection of the tumor. Due to the different anatomical structure of the obturator nerve, obturator nerve block (ONB) can be performed with different methods.
METHODSː A total of 122 patients, 22 females with a mean age of 56.63 ± 12.99 and 100 males with a mean age of 63.18 ± 8.00, were included in our study. ONB was performed under ultrasound guidance by the same anesthesiologist in the first group, and ONB was performed according to anatomical signs blindly in the second group by the same urology doctor.
RESULTSːIn group 1, in 53 cases it was observed with Absence of Spasm, and in 5 cases Spasm was present. On the other hand, in group 2, in 49 cases Spasm was absent, whereas, in 15 cases spasm was present.
CONCLUSIONSː As a conclusion there was a significant relationship between groups on spasm.
Correlation analysis of time-interval parameter of ductus venosus and neonatal blood pressure at birth in fetal growth restriction
Authors: Yoshida Tomohiro , Kurihara Yasushi , Yokoi Natsuko , Kitada Kohei , Nakagawa Kayoko , Tahara Mie , Hamuro Akihiro , Nakano Akemi , Misugi Takuya , Tachibana Daisuke
Published: October 2023

The aims of this study were to compare the blood pressure at birth between fetal growth restriction (FGR) cases and normally grown preterm cases, and also to elucidate whether the time interval of the flow velocity waveform of ductus venosus (DV-FVW) and/or the pulsatility index of ductus venosus (DV-PI) shows a correlation with blood pressure at birth in FGR cases. FGR was defined as an estimated fetal body weight below -2.0 SD with an elevated PI of the umbilical artery (> 95 percentile). As a control group (CTL), infants matched for gestational week of delivery were selected. Doppler parameters (DV-PI and the ratio of systolic to diastolic time intervals of the DV-FVW (DV-S/D)) were measured in the FGR group within a day before delivery. The relationships were assessed between Doppler parameters and neonatal blood pressures: systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial pressure. Each blood pressure in the FGR group was lower than those in the control group. Moreover, there were significant correlations of the DV-S/D with systolic, diastolic and mean arterial pressures in the FGR group, while the DV-PI did not show any correlation with any blood pressures. The DV-S/D might be a predictive parameter for low blood pressure at birth in preterm neonates complicated with placental dysfunction.