bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design, Synthesis, and Antitumor Activity of Erlotinib Derivatives
Authors: Mao Long-fei , Wang Zhen-Zhen , Wu Qiong , Chen Xiaojie , Yang Jian-Xue , Wang Xin , Li Yue-Ming
Published: April 2022

Nineteen erlotinib derivatives bearing different 1,2,3-triazole moieties were designed, synthesized, and evaluated for their potential against different cancer cell lines. The structures of the synthesized compounds were confirmed via1H NMR, 13C NMR, and HR MS. Preliminary antitumor activity assay results suggested that some compounds showed remarkable inhibitory activity against different cancer cell lines including the corresponding drug-resistant ones. Among these compounds, 3d was the most promising one with an IC50 of 7.17 ± 0.73 μM (KYSE70TR), 7.91 ± 0.61 μM (KYSE410TR), 10.02 ± 0.75 μM (KYSE450TR), 5.76 ± 0.3 3 μM (H1650TR), and 2.38 ± 0.17 μM (HCC827GR). A preliminary mechanism study suggested that compound 3d suppressed cancer cell proliferation through the EGFR-TK pathway.
The Risk of Ventricular Dysrhythmia or Sudden Death in Patients Receiving Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors With Methadone: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Antoniou Tony , McCormack Daniel , Tadrous Mina , Juurlink David N. , Gomes Tara
Published: April 2022

Background: Methadone is associated with ventricular dysrhythmias and sudden death. Serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs) may increase the risk of these events either by inhibiting metabolism of methadone’s proarrhythmic (S)-enantiomer, additive QT interval prolongation, or both. We sought to determine whether certain SRIs were associated with a higher risk of methadone-related ventricular dysrhythmias or sudden death.

Methods: We conducted a nested case-control study of Ontario residents receiving methadone between April 1, 1996 and December 31, 2017. Cases, defined as patients who died of sudden cardiac death or were hospitalized with a ventricular dysrhythmia while on methadone, were matched with up to four controls who also received methadone on age, sex, and a disease risk score. We determined the odds ratio (OR) and p-value functions for the association between methadone-related cardiotoxicity and treatment with SRIs known to inhibit metabolism of (S)-methadone (paroxetine, fluvoxamine, sertraline) or prolong the QT interval (citalopram and escitalopram). Patients who were not treated with an SRI served as the reference group.

Results: During the study period, we identified 626 cases and 2,299 matched controls. Following multivariable adjustment, we found that recent use of sertraline, fluvoxamine or paroxetine (adjusted OR 1.30; 95% confidence intervals [CI] 0.90–1.86) and citalopram and escitalopram (adjusted OR 1.26; 95% CI 0.97–1.63) were associated with small increases in the risk methadone-related cardiac toxicity, an assertion supported by the corresponding p-value functions.

Interpretation: Certain SRIs may be associated with a small increase in cardiac toxicity in methadone-treated patients.
Oleoylethanolamide as a New Therapeutic Strategy to Alleviate Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity
Authors: Qin Yeyu , Xie Jing , Zheng Ruihe , Li Yuhang , Wang Haixia
Published: April 2022

Doxorubicin (DOX) is one of the most common chemotherapeutic anti-cancer drugs. However, its clinical use is restricted by serious cardiotoxicity. Oleoylethanolamide (OEA), a structural congener of endocannabinoid anandamide, is the endogenous agonist of peroxisome proliferator activated-receptor α (PPARα) and transient receptor potential cation channel vanilloid-1 (TRPV1), and involved in many physiological processes. The present study aimed to determine whether OEA treatment protects against DOX-induced cytotoxicity (DIC) and gain insights into the underlying mechanism that mediate these effects. Our data revealed that Oleoylethanolamide treatment improved the myocardial structure in DOX-challenged mice by attenuating cardiac oxidative stress and cell apoptosis. OEA also alleviated DOX-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis dysregulation in HL-1 cardiomyocyte. These effects were mediated by activation of TRPV1 and upregulation of PI3K/ Akt signaling pathway. Inhibition of TRPV1 and PI3K reversed the protective effects of OEA. Taken together, our data suggested that OEA protects against DIC through a TRPV1- mediated PI3K/ Akt pathway.
Suppressive Modulation of the Chick Forebrain Network for Imprinting by Thyroid Hormone: An in Vitro Study
Authors: Saheki Yuriko , Aoki Naoya , Homma Koichi J. , Matsushima Toshiya
Published: April 2022

The thyroid hormone 3,5,3′-triiodothyronine (T3) is considered to act acutely in the chick forebrain because focal infusion of T3 to the intermediate medial mesopallium (IMM) causes 4 to 6-day-old hatchlings to become imprintable approximately 30 min after the infusion. To understand the mechanism of this acute T3 action, we examined synaptic responses of IMM neurons in slice preparations in vitro. Extracellular field potential responses to local electrical stimulation were pharmacologically dissociated to synaptic components mediated by AMPA and NMDA receptors, as well as GABA-A and -B receptors. Bath-applied T3 (20–40 μM) enhanced the positive peak amplitude of the field potential, which represented the GABA-A component. Bicuculline induced spontaneous epileptic bursts by NMDA receptor activation, and subsequent application of T3 suppressed the bursting frequency. Pretreatment of slices with T3 failed to influence the synaptic potentiation caused by tetanic stimulation. Intracellular whole-cell recording using a patch electrode confirmed the T3 actions on the GABA-A and NMDA components. T3 enhanced the GABA-A response and suppressed the NMDA plateau potential without changes in the resting membrane potential or the threshold of action potentials. Contrary to our initial expectation, T3 suppressed the synaptic drives of IMM neurons, and did not influence activity-dependent synaptic potentiation. Imprinting-associated T3 influx may act as an acute suppressor of the IMM network.
Maternal Sensitivity Modulates Child’s Parasympathetic Mode and Buffers Sympathetic Activity in a Free Play Situation
Authors: Köhler-Dauner Franziska , Roder Eva , Gulde Manuela , Mayer Inka , Fegert Jörg M. , Ziegenhain Ute , Waller Christiane
Published: April 2022

Background

Behavioral and physiological (self-)regulation in early life is crucial for the understanding of childhood development and adjustment. The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is a main player in the regulative system and should therefore be modulated by the quality of interactive behavior of the caregiver. We experimentally investigated the ANS response of 18–36-month-old children in response to the quality of maternal behavior during a mother–child-interacting paradigm.

Method

Eighty mothers and their children came to our laboratory and took part in an experimental paradigm, consisting of three episodes: a resting phase (E1), a structured play phase (E2), and a free play situation (E3) between mothers and their child. Children’s and mother’s heart rate (HR), the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activityviathe pre-ejection period (PEP) and the left ventricular ejection time (LVET), and the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) activityviathe respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) were continuously measured by an electrocardiogram. Maternal sensitivity of interactive behavior was assessed by using the Emotional Availability (EA) Scales.

Results

Children of mothers with insensitive behavior had a significantly lower RSA at baseline, showed a lack of RSA withdrawal during structured and free play, and had shorter LVET across all episodes compared to children of sensitive mothers.

Conclusion

Our findings depict the influence of low-quality maternal interaction on the child’s ANS regulation, in calm and more stressful play situations. The overall higher SNS mode with impaired PNS reactivity may negatively influence child’s ANS homoeostasis, which may result in a long-term impact on mental and physical wellbeing. Further, the maternal sensitivity may function as a buffer for the stress response of their child. These results could serve as a basis for the development of appropriate psychoeducational programs for mothers of low sensitivity in their interaction with the child.
Acacia rigidula versus other Acacia taxa: An alarming issue in the European novel food regulation and food supplement industry
Authors: Koncz Dorottya , Tóth Barbara , Kiss Tivadar , Roza Orsolya , Csupor Dezső
Published: April 2022

Based on the signals recorded in the RASFF (Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed), Acacia rigidula is a repeat- edly emerging unauthorized ingredient in weight loss dietary supplements in the European Union. Although the fruit, bark and gum of Acacia nilotica can be marketed as food supplement, and the gum of Acacia senegal as food ingredient, A. rigidula is an unauthorized novel food in the European Union. Here we present the first systematic overview of the phyto- chemical and pharmacological data reported on safety and efficacy of A. rigidula.
Exogenous Selenium Treatment Promotes Glucosinolate and Glucoraphanin Accumulation in Broccoli by Activating Their Biosynthesis and Transport Pathways
Authors: Wu Qi , Wang Junwei , Huang Huiping , Mao Shuxiang , Wu Qiuyun , Huang Ke
Published: April 2022

Supplementation using selenium (Se) on plants is an effective and widely used approach. It can not only be converted to more Se rich compounds but promote the accumulation of glucosinolates (GSLs) with anti-carcinogenic properties. However, the molecular mechanism of Se in regulating GSLs synthesis remains unclear. In the present study, we analyzed the effects of Se treatment (50 μM sodium selenite) on GSLs, glucoraphanin (4MSOB), and sulforaphane compounds in broccoli tissues. The transcript levels of genes involved in sulfur absorption and transport, GSLs biosynthesis, translocation, and degradation pathways were also evaluated. The study showed that Se treatment remarkably promoted the accumulation of total sulfur and total Se contents and increased Trp-derived GSLs levels in roots by 2 times. The 4MSOB concentration and sulforaphane content in fresh leaves was increased by 67% and 30% after Se treatment, respectively. For genes expressions, some genes involved in sulfate uptake and transporters, GSLs biosynthesis, and transporters were induced strongly upon Se exposure. Results revealed that exogenous Se treatment promotes the overaccumulation of GSLs and 4MSOB content in broccoli by activating the transcript levels of genes involved in sulfur absorption, GSLs biosynthesis, and translocation pathways.
Prussian Blue Nanoparticle Supported MoS2 Nanocomposites as a Peroxidase-Like Nanozyme for Colorimetric Sensing of Dopamine
Authors: Zhu Zhiqiang , Gong Lingbo , Miao Xiangyang , Chen Chaoyang , Su Shao
Published: April 2022

An abnormal level of dopamine (DA) is usually related to neurological disorders, including Parkinson’s disease. Herein, cubic-shaped, Prussian blue nanoparticle-supported MoS2 nanocomposites (MoS2-CPBNPs) were prepared as peroxidase-like nanozymes for the label-free, colorimetric detection of DA. As expected, the as-prepared MoS2-CPBNPs nanozymes have outstanding peroxidase-like mimicking activity, which can catalyze 3,3′,5,5′-Tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) to generate blue, oxidized TMB in the presence of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). DA can inhibit the oxidation of TMB, which causes blue solutions to fade and become colorless. According to this phenomenon, the developed colorimetric sensor can qualitatively and quantitatively analyze DA ranging from 0 to 300 μM with a detection limit of 0.09 μM. In addition, the high recovery and low relative standard deviation for practical DA determination suggested that this colorimetric sensor has potential for application in biological biosensing and diagnostic fields.
Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors as Therapy to Down-Stage Hepatocellular Carcinoma Prior to Liver Transplantation
Authors: Katariya Nitin N. , Lizaola-Mayo Blanca C. , Chascsa David M. , Giorgakis Emmanouil , Aqel Bashar A. , Moss Adyr A. , Uson Junior Pedro Luiz Serrano , Borad Mitesh J. , Mathur Amit K.
Published: April 2022

Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) is the most common liver malignancy and third leading cause of cancer death worldwide. For early- and intermediate-stage disease, liver-directed therapies for locoregional control, or down-staging prior to definitive surgical therapy with hepatic resection or liver transplantation, have been studied broadly, and are the mainstays of current treatment guidelines. As HCC incidence has continued to grow, and with more patients presenting with advanced disease, our current treatment modalities do not suffice, and better therapies are needed to improve disease-specific and overall survival. Until recently, sorafenib was the only systemic therapy utilized, and was associated with dismal results. The advent of immuno-oncology has been of significant interest, and has changed the paradigm of therapy for HCC. Lately, combination regimens including atezolizumab plus bevacizumab; durvalumab plus tremelimumab; and pembrolizumab plus Lenvatinib have shown impressive responses of between 25–35%; this is much higher than responses observed with single agents. Complete responses with checkpoint inhibitor therapy have been observed in advanced-stage HCC patients. These dramatic results have naturally led to several questions. Can or should checkpoint inhibitors, or other immunotherapy combinations, be used routinely before resection or transplant? Is there a synergistic effect of immunotherapy with locoregional therapy, and will pre-treatment increase disease-free survival after surgical intervention? Is it immunologically safe to use these therapies prior to transplantation? Much is still to be learned in terms of the dosing, timing, and overall utility of the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors for pre-transplant care and down-staging. More studies will be needed to understand the management of adverse events while maximizing the therapeutic window of these agents. In this review, we look at the current data on therapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors in advanced HCC, with a focus on pre-transplant treatment prior to liver transplant.
Immunotherapy for Management of Thymic Epithelial Tumors: A Double-Edged Sword
Authors: Ballman Madison , Zhao Chen , McAdams Meredith J. , Rajan Arun
Published: April 2022

Thymic epithelial tumors (TETs) are rare thoracic cancers that are broadly classified as thymomas and thymic carcinomas. Surgery is the cornerstone of management for early-stage disease. There are a limited number of effective treatment options for patients with advanced or recurrent disease. The occurrence of paraneoplastic autoimmune disorders in patients with TETs, especially thymomas, creates significant challenges for the development of immunotherapy, including immune checkpoint inhibitors, as a feasible treatment option. In addition, patients with TETs are at increased risk for the development of immune-mediated toxicity with a predilection for musculoskeletal and neuromuscular adverse events upon treatment with immunotherapy. The identification of biomarkers of response and toxicity is expected to play a key role in harnessing the benefits of immunotherapy for patients with TETs. In this paper we review the biology of TETs and the potential effects on the tolerability of immunotherapy. The results of clinical trials of immune checkpoint inhibitors for the treatment of advanced TETs are described to understand the potential risks and benefits of immunotherapy. We also provide an overview of future avenues for treatment with novel immunotherapeutic modalities and opportunities to develop biomarkers to improve the safety and tolerability of immunomodulatory treatments in patients with TETs.
Investigations on Structural, Electronic and Optical Properties of MoS2/CDs Heterostructure via First-Principles Study
Authors: Yin Xianglu , Teng Aijun , Chang Zhi , Yuan Peng , Zhang Dongbin , Yu Jiyang
Published: April 2022

Much effort has been made for MoS2/CDs heterostructure application in the field of photocatalysts. However, the impacts of functional groups of CDs on the properties of the heterostructure are ambiguous. Here, the impacts of hydroxyl, carbonyl, and carboxyl groups of CDs on the structural, electronic, and optical properties of MoS2/CDs’ heterostructure were investigated by conducting a first-principles study. The calculated energy band structure and band gap of monolayer MoS2 were consistent with the experimental values. The band gap of MoS2 was obviously decreased after the construction of MoS2/CDs and MoS2/CDs–hydroxyl/carboxyl, thus helping to improve the light adsorption range. However, the band gap of MoS2/CDs–carbonyl was slightly increased compared with that of monolayer MoS2. The CDs with functional groups can spontaneously bind on 2D-MoS2 and form a stable MoS2/CDs heterostructure. It was confirmed that the MoS2/CDs’ heterostructure belongs to the typical type-II band alignment, which contributes to the separation of photogenerated charge and hole. Notably, the carbonyl and carboxyl groups on the CDs obviously reduced the optical absorption intensity of the MoS2/CDs in the ultraviolet region. The hydroxyl groups have little effect on optical absorption intensity. Thus, the CDs with more hydroxyl groups are beneficial to produce a higher photocatalytic performance. This paper reveals the impacts of surface functional groups and provides a promising approach for designing the MoS2/CDs’ heterostructure to enhance the photocatalytic properties.
Intravascular Large B-Cell Lymphoma: A Review with a Focus on the Prognostic Value of Skin Involvement
Authors: Breakell Thomas , Waibel Heidi , Schliep Stefan , Ferstl Barbara , Erdmann Michael , Berking Carola , Heppt Markus V.
Published: April 2022

Intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) is an aggressive Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) characterised by the presence of neoplastic lymphoid cells within small- and medium-sized blood vessels. According to the clinical presentation, the current WHO classification distinguishes the ‘classic’ (formerly ‘Western’) from a hemophagocytic syndrome-associated (formerly ‘Asian’) variant. A third ‘cutaneous’ variant has been proposed, characterised by a good prognosis and unique clinical features. While laboratory findings can hint at diagnosis, symptoms are rather nonspecific, and deep skin biopsy supported by further measures such as bone marrow aspiration and positron emission tomography-computed tomography scanning is needed to make a definite diagnosis. Treatment is comprised of anthracycline-based chemotherapy supplemented with rituximab and central nervous system prophylaxis. While there are various prognostic models for NHL, only one is specific to IVLBCL, which does not sufficiently represent some patient groups, especially regarding the lack of differentiation within the patient collective with skin involvement. This underlines the necessity for the establishment of further prognostic models in particular for IVLBCL patients with cutaneous manifestations.
Coordinating Capacity Calculation via Electricity Market Coupling: Insights from the H2020 CROSSBOW Project
Authors: Andriopoulos Nikos , Georgantas Ioannis , Makrygiorgou Despoina I. , Skipis Dimitris , Dikaiakos Christos , Moraitis Ioannis , Botsis Athanasios , Papadaskalopoulos Dimitrios
Published: April 2022

CROSS BOrder management of variable renewable energies and storage units enabling a transnational Wholesale market (CROSSBOW) is an EC-funded project, whose aim is to facilitate the shared use of energy resources by fostering cross-border management of variable renewable energies and storage units, enabling higher penetration of renewable energy sources (RES) whilst reducing network operational costs and improving economic benefits of clean energies and storage units. Towards these goals, CROSSBOW boosts regional cooperation among the system operators in Southeastern Europe (SEE), by deploying nine different tools to support the security coordination center (SCC) of the region. More specifically, the main CROSSBOW product, namely CROSSBOW Regional Operation Centre (CROSSBOW ROC) has proposed and demonstrated a set of functionalities for regional management and operation that enhance the existing regional structures, extending the capabilities of the already established Regional Security Coordinator (RSC) initiatives. Beyond enhancing RSC mandatory functions (including adequacy forecasts, coordinated security analysis, capacity calculations, and outage planning coordination), the ROC-BC product has developed new functions, linking the security considerations of involved TSOs with the operation of the fast-developing and harmonized electricity markets. In this paper, we investigate approaches for coordinated capacity calculation and cross-border trading via market coupling, developed within the ROC-BC product of CROSSBOW. Moreover, we present the final demonstration results as a part of ROC fundamental functionalities. Specifically, both net transfer capacity (NTC) and flow-based (FB) methods are examined and compared within a case study applying to the SEE region. The presented results demonstrate that the FB method exhibits better performance in all examined scenarios, considering three different key performance indicators (KPIs).
Thermodynamic Optimization of Low-Temperature Cycles for the Power Industry
Authors: Kindra Vladimir , Rogalev Nikolay , Rogalev Andrey , Naumov Vladimir , Sabanova Ekaterina
Published: April 2022

The fuel price increase and severe environmental regulations determine energy-saving importance. Useful utilization of low-potential heat sources with 300–400 °С temperature becomes topical. The application of low-temperature power production facilities operating low-boiling heat carriers could be a solution to this problem. A comparative parametric study of a number of heat carriers resulted in a choice of the most promising fluids that are not expensive, have low toxicity and flammability, low ozone depletion and low global warming potential. These heat carriers are considered for application in simple power production cycles with and without regeneration. The main parameters were optimized at the initial temperatures of 323.15–623.15 K. The cycle without regeneration has a maximal net efficiency of 29.34% using the water at an initial temperature of 623.15 K. The regenerative cycle at a temperature below 490 K has its maximal efficiency using a water heat carrier, and at a higher temperature above 490 K with R236ea. The cycle with R236ea at 623.15 K has an electrical net efficiency of 33.30%. Using a water heat carrier, the maximal efficiency can be reached at pressures below 5 MPa for both cycles. Among the organic heat carriers, the minimal optimal initial pressure of a simple cycle is reached with the R236ea heat carrier below 45 MPa without regeneration and below 15 MPa with regeneration. Therefore when utilizing the latent heat with temperatures above 500 K R134a, R236ea and R124 are the most promising organic fluids. Such conditions could be obtained using different industrial sources with water condensation at elevated pressures.
A Novel Investigation to Explore the Impact of Renewable Energy, Urbanization, and Trade on Carbon Emission in Bhutan
Authors: Rehman Abdul , Alam Mohammad Mahtab , Radulescu Magdalena , Alvarado Rafael , Mihai Daniela , Brutu Madalina
Published: April 2022

The present study explores the impact of renewable energy usage, economic progress, urbanization, and trade on carbon emissions in Bhutan. The stationarity among the variables was tested by employing the two unit root tests by taking the annual data series variables from 1982–2020. A symmetric (ARDL) technique was utilized to analyze the associations among variables with short- and long-run estimations. In addition, the cointegration regression method using FMOLS and DOLS was used in this investigation to discover the robustness of the study variables. Findings showed that via long-run assessment the variables renewable energy consumption, urbanization, and trade have adverse connections with CO2 emission, while the variable economic progress shows a constructive linkage with carbon emission. However, the short-run assessment showed that the variable economic growth has a positive impact on carbon emissions. Further, the variables renewable energy consumption, urbanization, and trade have an adverse relation to carbon emissions in Bhutan. The consequences of both FMOLS and DOLS also mean that the variable renewable energy usage, urbanization, and trade have an adverse influence on carbon emission, while economic growth has a constructive linkage with CO2 emission. Greenhouse gas emissions are undeniably an increasing global issue. This problem can only be handled by prudent legislation and funding. Despite having fewer greenhouse gas emissions than industrialized economies, Bhutan’s government needs to develop new rules to address this issue in order to ensure environmental sustainability and economic growth.
Pathway to Green Transformation in Lithuania: Biogas Production from Manure and Waste
Authors: Gedminaitė-Raudonė Živilė , Lankauskienė Rita , Simonaitytė Vitalija
Published: April 2022

Green transformation at the beginning of the 21st century occupies the top positions in modern society’s sustainability transition research and policy debates due to its multiple propositions of various innovations, addressing the still unsolved issues of rapidly on-going societal and technological changes. Rooting from the general climate change concerns, recently, sustainability transformation has become a special focus in the EU, which is facing new and very concrete demands—to elucidate the evidence-based pathways towards the green transformation with European Green Deal and European Climate Law targets ahead. The main aim of this research is to disclose the pathway towards the green transformation in Lithuania in one of the fast-growing research fields of circular bioeconomy—biogas production from manure and waste. To reach this aim, a hybrid methodology approach was used. Analysis and synthesis of scientific literature, document analysis and structuring, stakeholder mapping, interviews, and statistical analysis methods had been applied. Research results gave evidence for one of the five proposed possible ways for green transformation in Lithuania—the regime transformation. Interviewed stakeholders repeatedly defined this as the most probable pathway for green transformation in Lithuania in the field of biogas production from manure and waste, considering the best suitability of the current development state in the field: adjustments of existing industries, skills, regulations, and institutions.
Experimental Interharmonic Sensitivity Evaluation of LED Lamps Based on the Luminous Flux Flicker Model
Authors: Li Hongtao , Song Yifan , Zhu Mingxing , Jiao Yadong
Published: April 2022

LED lamps have gradually replaced other lighting sources and have become mainstream in the lighting industry. The research on interharmonic sensitivity affecting their lighting quality cannot be ignored. By deconstructing the lamp-eye-brain module in the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) flicker model, a luminous flux flicker model without the constraints of a specific light source was proposed. The test system and corresponding analysis method of the interharmonic-luminous flux transfer coefficient in the model were described in detail, and the accuracy of the test results of the system was verified via incandescent lamp heat balance model simulations. Based on the test results, the conversion method of the interharmonic ratio of LED lamps under the flicker limit based on the interharmonic-flicker limit curve of incandescent lamps was deduced. By testing and comparing the differences in interharmonic-flicker limit curves of different driving types of LED lamps, the experimental evaluation of their sensitivity was completed, and the reference for LED lamp selection, driver design, and compatibility standard formulation in different application scenarios was provided.
An ICN-Based IPFS High-Availability Architecture
Authors: Zeng Ruibin , You Jiali , Li Yang , Han Rui
Published: April 2022

The Interplanetary File System (IPFS), a new type of P2P file system, enables people to obtain data from other peer nodes in a distributed system without the need to establish a connection with a distant server. However, IPFS suffers from low resolution efficiency and duplicate data delivery, resulting in poor system availability. The new Information-Centric Networking (ICN), on the other hand, applies the features of name resolution service and caching to achieve fast location and delivery of content. Therefore, there is a potential to optimize the availability of IPFS systems from the network layer. In this paper, we propose an ICN-based IPFS high-availability architecture, called IBIHA, which introduces enhanced nodes and information tables to manage data delivery based on the original IPFS network, and uses the algorithm of selecting high-impact nodes from the entitled network (PwRank) as the basis for deploying enhanced nodes in the network, thus achieving the effect of optimizing IPFS availability. The experimental results show that this architecture outperforms the IPFS network in terms of improving node resolution efficiency, reducing network redundant packets, and improving the rational utilization of network link resources.
Editorial for Gels 6th Anniversary Special Issue
Authors: Jabbari Esmaiel , Camci-Unal Gulden
Published: April 2022

This Special Issue celebrates many outstanding quality papers published in Gels over the past six years since its first issue was published in 2015 [...]
Evaluation and Comparison of Pear Flower Aroma Characteristics of Seven Cultivars
Authors: Li Xiaoying , Wu Junkai , Wang Haijing , Zhang Kai , Song Fuhang
Published: April 2022

Due to its ornamental and medicinal value, pear flower has been historically loved and used in China. However, the current understanding of their odor-active compounds and aroma profiles is rather limited. This work aimed to evaluate and compare the overall aroma profile of pear flowers; the volatiles in flowers of seven pear cultivars (Anli, Bayuesu, Golden, Brown peel, KorlaXiangli, Lyubaoshi, Xizilü) were analyzed using solid-phase microextraction–gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (SPME-GC-MS). A total of 93 volatile compounds were identified and quantified within the amount of volatiles in the range of 62.7–691.8 μg kg−1 (FW) and showed high and significant variability in different cultivars. Anli and Brown peel flowers showed a relatively higher volatile abundance, while KorlaXiangli flowers were significantly lower than other cultivars. Although the composition of volatiles depended on the existence of different chemical classes, the odor activity values (OAVs) and odor descriptions showed some aldehydes were part of their main peculiarities and were considered as the basic active odorants that presented strong intensity of citrus and floral odor. Moreover, multivariate analysis showed the pear flower of different cultivars could be arranged in different clusters by the identified odorants. This study provides first-hand knowledge regarding pear flower aroma profiles, and that the cultivar differences were critical for the overall pattern.
Mental Health Outcomes in Australian Healthcare and Aged-Care Workers during the Second Year of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: McGuinness Sarah L. , Johnson Josphin , Eades Owen , Cameron Peter A. , Forbes Andrew , Fisher Jane , Grantham Kelsey , Hodgson Carol , Hunter Peter , Kasza Jessica , Kelsall Helen L. , Kirkman Maggie , Russell Grant , Russo Philip L. , Sim Malcolm R. , Singh Kasha P. , Skouteris Helen , Smith Karen L. , Stuart Rhonda L. , Teede Helena J. , Trauer James M. , Udy Andrew , Zoungas Sophia , Leder Karin
Published: April 2022

Objective: the COVID-19 pandemic has incurred psychological risks for healthcare workers (HCWs). We established a Victorian HCW cohort (the Coronavirus in Victorian Healthcare and Aged-Care Workers (COVIC-HA) cohort study) to examine COVID-19 impacts on HCWs and assess organisational responses over time. Methods: mixed-methods cohort study, with baseline data collected via an online survey (7 May–18 July 2021) across four healthcare settings: ambulance, hospitals, primary care, and residential aged-care. Outcomes included self-reported symptoms of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress (PTS), wellbeing, burnout, and resilience, measured using validated tools. Work and home-related COVID-19 impacts and perceptions of workplace responses were also captured. Results: among 984 HCWs, symptoms of clinically significant depression, anxiety, and PTS were reported by 22.5%, 14.0%, and 20.4%, respectively, highest among paramedics and nurses. Emotional exhaustion reflecting moderate–severe burnout was reported by 65.1%. Concerns about contracting COVID-19 at work and transmitting COVID-19 were common, but 91.2% felt well-informed on workplace changes and 78.3% reported that support services were available. Conclusions: Australian HCWs employed during 2021 experienced adverse mental health outcomes, with prevalence differences observed according to occupation. Longitudinal evidence is needed to inform workplace strategies that support the physical and mental wellbeing of HCWs at organisational and state policy levels.
Forecasting CO2 Emissions Using A Novel Grey Bernoulli Model: A Case of Shaanxi Province in China
Authors: Wang Huiping , Zhang Zhun
Published: April 2022

Accurate predictions of CO2 emissions have important practical significance for determining the best measures for reducing CO2 emissions and accomplishing the target of reaching a carbon peak. Although some existing models have good modeling accuracy, the improvement of model specifications can provide a more accurate grasp of a system’s future and thus help relevant departments develop more effective targeting measures. Therefore, considering the shortcomings of the existing grey Bernoulli model, in this paper, the traditional model is optimized from the perspectives of the accumulation mode and background value optimization, and the novel grey Bernoulli model NFOGBM(1,1,α,β) is constructed. The effectiveness of the model is verified by using CO2 emissions data from seven major industries in Shaanxi Province, China, and future trends are predicted. The conclusions are as follows. First, the new fractional opposite-directional accumulation and optimization methods for background value determination are effective and reasonable, and the prediction performance can be enhanced. Second, the prediction accuracy of the NFOGBM(1,1,α,β) is higher than that of the NGBM(1,1) and FANGBM(1,1). Third, the forecasting results show that under the current conditions, the CO2 emissions generated by the production and supply of electricity and heat are expected to increase by 23.8% by 2030, and the CO2 emissions of the other six examined industries will decline.
One Word to Describe My Experience as a COVID-19 Survivor Six Months after Its Onset: Findings of a Qualitative Study
Authors: Palese Alvisa , Peghin Maddalena , Bressan Valentina , Venturini Margherita , Gerussi Valentina , Bontempo Giulia , Graziano Elena , Visintini Erica , Tascini Carlo
Published: April 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic emotionally affected the lives of patients cared for in different settings. However, a comprehensive view of the whole experience as lived by survived patients, from the onset of the disease and over time, is substantially unknown to date. A descriptive qualitative design was implemented according to the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research. Adult patients (=1067) cared for during the first wave (March/April 2020) capable of answering an interview and willing to participate were interviewed (=397) by phone with an interview guide including open- and closed-ended questions. In this context, they were asked to summarise with a metaphor their entire COVID-19 experience at six months. Then, the emotional orientation (positive, neutral, or negative) of the metaphors expressed was identified. The participants were mainly female (206; 51.9%), with an average age of 52.6 years (CI 95% 50.4–53.6), reporting a mild severity of COVID-19 disease at the onset (261; 65.7%) and the perception of being completely healed (294; 70%) at six months. The patients summarised their experiences mainly using negative-oriented (248; 62.5%) metaphors; only 54 (13.6%) reported positive-oriented metaphors and a quarter (95; 23.95) neutral-oriented metaphors. Nearly all positive-oriented metaphors were reported by patients with symptoms at the onset (53; 98.1%), a significantly higher proportion compared to those reporting negative- (219; 88.3%) and neutral–oriented (78; 82.1%) metaphors (p = 0.014). While no other clinical features of the disease were associated, among females, significantly more negative-oriented metaphors emerged. Moreover, neutral-oriented metaphors were reported by younger patients (49.5 years, CI 95% 64.11–52.92) as compared to those negative and positive that were reported by more mature patients (53.9; CI 95% 52.04–55.93 and 54.8; CI 95% 50.53–59.24, respectively) (p = 0.044). Nurses and healthcare services require data to predict the long-term needs of patients. Our findings suggest that, for many patients, the COVID-19 lived experience was negative over time.
The COVID-19 Lockdown and Mental Wellbeing of Females in China
Authors: Xia Chang-Lan , Wei An-Pin , Huang Yu-Ting
Published: April 2022

Most studies consider that COVID-19 lockdowns lead to mental health problems for females, while the effect of role change on female mental health has been overlooked. This study aimed to explore multiple facets of the risk of mental distress in a sample of Chinese married females aged 21–50 during the COVID-19 lockdowns. A cross-sectional study was carried out with 613 valid responses from married females in the Guangdong province. Our primary tool was a questionnaire using a Kessler-10 scale to detect the probability of mental distress based on the level of nervousness, tiredness, restlessness, and depression. Eighty-eight point three percent of married females possessed a high risk of psychological distress because they frequently felt tired out, hopeless, and restless. The evidence suggests that the lockdown has caused a conflict in the female role to maintain a balance between family and career. Increasing family care responsibilities are positively associated with nervousness, tiredness, and mental disorder. The heterogeneity of the social role in mental wellbeing is explored. Married females whose income was worse off during the lockdown are negatively associated with mental wellbeing. Married females who are employed are found to be less mentally healthy than the self-employed.
Kidney Function in Rice Workers Exposed to Heat and Dehydration in Costa Rica
Authors: Crowe Jennifer , Rojas-Valverde Daniel , Rojas-Garbanzo Marianela , Gutiérrez-Vargas Randall , Ugalde-Ramírez José Alexis , Ledezma-Rojas José Pablo , Cabrera-Alpizar William , Salazar-Salazar Minor , Mauricio-La Torre Rodrigo , Valera-Amador Lázara , van Wendel de Joode Berna
Published: April 2022

The aim of this study was to evaluate heat exposure, dehydration, and kidney function in rice workers over the course of three months, in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. We collected biological and questionnaire data across a three-month-period in male field (n = 27) and other (n = 45) workers from a rice company where chronic kidney disease of unknown origin (CKDu) is endemic. We used stepwise forward regression to determine variables associated with estimated glomerular filtration rate eGFR at enrollment and/or change in eGFR, and Poisson regression to assess associations with incident kidney injury (IKI) over the course of three months. Participants were 20–62 years old (median = 40 in both groups). Dehydration was common (≥37%) in both groups, particularly among other workers at enrollment, but field workers were more exposed to heat and had higher workloads. Low eGFR (<60 mL/min/1.73 m2) was more prevalent in field workers at enrollment (19% vs. 4%) and follow-up (26% vs. 7%). Field workers experienced incident kidney injury (IKI) more frequently than other workers: 26% versus 2%, respectively. Age (β = −0.71, 95%CI: −1.1, −0.4), current position as a field worker (β = −2.75, 95%CI: −6.49, 0.99) and past work in construction (β = 3.8, 95%CI: −0.1, 7.6) were included in the multivariate regression model to explain eGFR at enrollment. The multivariate regression model for decreased in eGFR over three month included current field worker (β = −3.9, 95%CI: −8.2, 0.4), current smoking (β= −6.2, 95%CI: −13.7–1.3), dehydration (USG ≥ 1.025) at both visits (β= −3.19, 95%CI: −7.6, 1.2) and pain medication at follow-up (β= −3.2, 95%CI: −8.2, 1.95). Current fieldwork [IR (incidence rate) = 2.2, 95%CI 1.1, 5.8) and being diabetic (IR = 1.8, 95%CI 0.9, 3.6) were associated with IKI. Low eGFR was common in field workers from a rice company in Guanacaste, and being a field worker was a risk factor for IKI, consistent with the hypothesis that occupational heat exposure is a critical risk factor for CKDu in Mesoamerica.
Fecal Microbiota Transplantation Derived from Alzheimer’s Disease Mice Worsens Brain Trauma Outcomes in Wild-Type Controls
Authors: Soriano Sirena , Curry Kristen , Wang Qi , Chow Elsbeth , Treangen Todd J. , Villapol Sonia
Published: April 2022

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) causes neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration, both of which increase the risk and accelerate the progression of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The gut microbiome is an essential modulator of the immune system, impacting the brain. AD has been related with reduced diversity and alterations in the community composition of the gut microbiota. This study aimed to determine whether the gut microbiota from AD mice exacerbates neurological deficits after TBI in control mice. We prepared fecal microbiota transplants from 18 to 24 month old 3×Tg-AD (FMT-AD) and from healthy control (FMT-young) mice. FMTs were administered orally to young control C57BL/6 (wild-type, WT) mice after they underwent controlled cortical impact (CCI) injury, as a model of TBI. Then, we characterized the microbiota composition of the fecal samples by full-length 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis. We collected the blood, brain, and gut tissues for protein and immunohistochemical analysis. Our results showed that FMT-AD administration stimulates a higher relative abundance of the genus Muribaculum and a decrease in Lactobacillus johnsonii compared to FMT-young in WT mice. Furthermore, WT mice exhibited larger lesion, increased activated microglia/macrophages, and reduced motor recovery after FMT-AD compared to FMT-young one day after TBI. In summary, we observed gut microbiota from AD mice to have a detrimental effect and aggravate the neuroinflammatory response and neurological outcomes after TBI in young WT mice.
Rap1a Activity Elevated the Impact of Endogenous AGEs in Diabetic Collagen to Stimulate Increased Myofibroblast Transition and Oxidative Stress
Authors: Burr Stephanie D. , Dorroh Christopher C. , Stewart James A.
Published: April 2022

Diabetics have an increased risk for heart failure due to cardiac fibroblast functional changes occurring as a result of AGE/RAGE signaling. Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) levels are higher in diabetics and stimulate elevated RAGE (receptor for AGE) signaling. AGE/RAGE signaling can alter the expression of proteins linked to extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and oxidative stressors. Our lab has identified a small GTPase, Rap1a, that may overlap the AGE/RAGE signaling pathway. We sought to determine the role Rap1a plays in mediating AGE/RAGE changes and to assess the impact of isolated collagen on further altering these changes. Primary cardiac fibroblasts from non-diabetic and diabetic mice with and without RAGE expression and from mice lacking Rap1a were cultured on tail collagen extracted from non-diabetic or diabetic mice, and in addition, cells were treated with Rap1a activator, EPAC. Protein analyses were performed for changes in RAGE-associated signaling proteins (RAGE, PKC-ζ, ERK1/2) and downstream RAGE signaling outcomes (α-SMA, NF-κB, SOD-2). Increased levels of endogenous AGEs within the diabetic collagen and increased Rap1a activity promoted myofibroblast transition and oxidative stress, suggesting Rap1a activity elevated the impact of AGEs in the diabetic ECM to stimulate myofibroblast transition and oxidative stress.
Special Issue: Cellular Oxygen Homeostasis
Authors: Tretter Verena
Published: April 2022

Oxidative phosphorylation is an efficient way to generate the cellular energy currency ATP in a cascade of redox reactions, which ultimately terminate in the reduction of molecular oxygen to water [...]
Comparative Study of Starch Phosphorylase Genes and Encoded Proteins in Various Monocots and Dicots with Emphasis on Maize
Authors: Yu Guowu , Shoaib Noman , Xie Ying , Liu Lun , Mughal Nishbah , Li Yangping , Huang Huanhuan , Zhang Na , Zhang Junjie , Liu Yinghong , Hu Yufeng , Liu Hanmei , Huang Yubi
Published: April 2022

Starch phosphorylase (PHO) is a multimeric enzyme with two distinct isoforms: plastidial starch phosphorylase (PHO1) and cytosolic starch phosphorylase (PHO2). PHO1 specifically resides in the plastid, while PHO2 is found in the cytosol. Both play a critical role in the synthesis and degradation of starch. This study aimed to report the detailed structure, function, and evolution of genes encoding PHO1 and PHO2 and their protein ligand-binding sites in eight monocots and four dicots. “True” orthologs of PHO1 and PHO2 of Oryza sativa were identified, and the structure of the enzyme at the protein level was studied. The genes controlling PHO2 were found to be more conserved than those controlling PHO1; the variations were mainly due to the variable sequence and length of introns. Cis-regulatory elements in the promoter region of both genes were identified, and the expression pattern was analyzed. The real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction indicated that PHO2 was expressed in all tissues with a uniform pattern of transcripts, and the expression pattern of PHO1 indicates that it probably contributes to the starch biosynthesis during seed development in Zea mays. Under abscisic acid (ABA) treatment, PHO1 was found to be downregulated in Arabidopsis and Hordeum vulgare. However, we found that ABA could up-regulate the expression of both PHO1 and PHO2 within 12 h in Zea mays. In all monocots and dicots, the 3D structures were highly similar, and the ligand-binding sites were common yet fluctuating in the position of aa residues.
TaNBR1, a Novel Wheat NBR1-like Domain Gene Negatively Regulates Drought Stress Tolerance in Transgenic Arabidopsis
Authors: Chen Liuping , Lv Qian , Yang Weibing , Yang Hui , Chen Qiaoyan , Wang Bingxin , Lei Yanhong , Xie Yanzhou
Published: April 2022

Drought stress is an important factor that severely affects crop yield and quality. Autophagy has a crucial role in the responses to abiotic stresses. In this study, we explore TaNBR1 in response to drought stress. Expression of the TaNBR1 gene was strongly induced by NaCl, PEG, and abscisic acid treatments. The TaNBR1 protein is localized in the Golgi apparatus and autophagosome. Transgenic Arabidopsis plants overexpressing TaNBR1 exhibited reduced drought tolerance. When subjected to drought stress, compared to the wild-type (WT) lines, the transgenic overexpressing TaNBR1 plants had a lower seed germination rate, relative water content, proline content, and reduced accumulation of antioxidant enzymes, i.e., superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and catalase, as well as higher chlorophyll losses, malondialdehyde contents, and water loss. The transgenic plants overexpressing TaNBR1 produced much shorter roots in response to mannitol stress, in comparison to the WT plants, and they exhibited greater sensitivity to abscisic acid treatment. The expression levels of the genes related to stress in the transgenic plants were affected in response to drought stress. Our results indicate that TaNBR1 negatively regulates drought stress responses by affecting the expression of stress-related genes in Arabidopsis.