bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glioma Stem Cells: Novel Data Obtained by Single-Cell Sequencing
Authors: Gisina Alisa , Kholodenko Irina , Kim Yan , Abakumov Maxim , Lupatov Alexey , Yarygin Konstantin
Published: November 2022

Glioma is the most common type of primary CNS tumor, composed of cells that resemble normal glial cells. Recent genetic studies have provided insight into the inter-tumoral heterogeneity of gliomas, resulting in the updated 2021 WHO classification of gliomas. Thorough understanding of inter-tumoral heterogeneity has already improved the prognosis and treatment outcomes of some types of gliomas. Currently, the challenge for researchers is to study the intratumoral cell heterogeneity of newly defined glioma subtypes. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) present in gliomas and many other tumors are an example of intratumoral heterogeneity of great importance. In this review, we discuss the modern concept of glioma stem cells and recent single-cell sequencing-driven progress in the research of intratumoral glioma cell heterogeneity. The particular emphasis was placed on the recently revealed variations of the cell composition of the subtypes of the adult-type diffuse gliomas, including astrocytoma, oligodendroglioma and glioblastoma. The novel data explain the inconsistencies in earlier glioma stem cell research and also provide insight into the development of more effective targeted therapy and the cell-based immunotherapy of gliomas. Separate sections are devoted to the description of single-cell sequencing approach and its role in the development of cell-based immunotherapies for glioma.
Mechanisms of Male Reproductive Toxicity of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers
Authors: Arowolo Olatunbosun , Pilsner J. Richard , Sergeyev Oleg , Suvorov Alexander
Published: November 2022

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE) are a group of flame retardants used in a variety of artificial materials. Despite being phased out in most industrial countries, they remain in the environment and human tissues due to their persistence, lipophilicity, and bioaccumulation. Populational and experimental studies demonstrate the male reproductive toxicity of PBDEs including increased incidence of genital malformations (hypospadias and cryptorchidism), altered weight of testes and other reproductive tissues, altered testes histology and transcriptome, decreased sperm production and sperm quality, altered epigenetic regulation of developmental genes in spermatozoa, and altered secretion of reproductive hormones. A broad range of mechanistic hypotheses of PBDE reproductive toxicity has been suggested. Among these hypotheses, oxidative stress, the disruption of estrogenic signaling, and mitochondria disruption are affected by PBDE concentrations much higher than concentrations found in human tissues, making them unlikely links between exposures and adverse reproductive outcomes in the general population. Robust evidence suggests that at environmentally relevant doses, PBDEs and their metabolites may affect male reproductive health via mechanisms including AR antagonism and the disruption of a complex network of metabolic signaling.
Identification of Competing Endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) Network Associated with Drought Tolerance in Medicago truncatula with Rhizobium Symbiosis
Authors: Jing Jiaxian , Yang Peizhi , Wang Yue , Qu Qihao , An Jie , Fu Bingzhe , Hu Xiaoning , Zhou Yi , Hu Tianming , Cao Yuman
Published: November 2022

Drought, bringing the risks of agricultural production losses, is becoming a globally environmental stress. Previous results suggested that legumes with nodules exhibited superior drought tolerance compared with the non-nodule group. To investigate the molecular mechanism of rhizobium symbiosis impacting drought tolerance, transcriptome and sRNAome sequencing were performed to identify the potential mRNA–miRNA–ncRNA dynamic network. Our results revealed that seedlings with active nodules exhibited enhanced drought tolerance by reserving energy, synthesizing N-glycans, and medicating systemic acquired resistance due to the early effects of symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF) triggered in contrast to the drought susceptible with inactive nodules. The improved drought tolerance might be involved in the decreased expression levels of miRNA such as mtr_miR169l-5p, mtr_miR398b, and mtr_miR398c and its target genes in seedlings with active nodules. Based on the negative expression pattern between miRNA and its target genes, we constructed an mRNA–miR169l–ncRNA ceRNA network. During severe drought stress, the lncRNA alternative splicings TCONS_00049507 and TCONS_00049510 competitively interacted with mtr_miR169l-5p, which upregulated the expression of NUCLEAR FACTOR-Y (NF-Y) transcription factor subfamily NF-YA genes MtNF-YA2 and MtNF-YA3 to regulate their downstream drought-response genes. Our results emphasized the importance of SNF plants affecting drought tolerance. In conclusion, our work provides insight into ceRNA involvement in rhizobium symbiosis contributing to drought tolerance and provides molecular evidence for future study.
Vanadium Modulates Proteolytic Activities and MMP-14-Like Levels during Paracentrotus lividus Embryogenesis
Authors: Chiarelli Roberto , Martino Chiara , Scudiero Rosaria , Geraci Fabiana
Published: November 2022

The increasing industrial use of vanadium (V), as well as its recent medical use in various pathologies has intensified its environmental release, making it an emerging pollutant. The sea urchin embryo has long been used to study the effects induced by metals, including V. In this study we used an integrated approach that correlates the biological effects on embryo development with proteolytic activities of gelatinases that could better reflect any metal-induced imbalances. V-exposure caused morphological/morphometric aberrations, mainly concerning the correct distribution of embryonic cells, the development of the skeleton, and the embryo volume. Moreover, V induced a concentration change in all the gelatinases expressed during embryo development and a reduction in their total proteolytic activity. The presence of three MMP-like gelatinases (MMP-2, -9, and -14) was also demonstrated and their levels depended on V-concentration. In particular, the MMP-14-like protein modified its expression level during embryo development in a time- and dose-dependent manner. This enzyme also showed a specific localization on filopodia, suggesting that primary mesenchyme cells (PMCs) could be responsible for its synthesis. In conclusion, these results indicate that an integrated study among morphology/morphometry, proteolytic activity, and MMP-14 expression constitutes an important response profile to V-action.
Newly Synthesized Melphalan Analogs Induce DNA Damage and Mitotic Catastrophe in Hematological Malignant Cancer Cells
Authors: Poczta Anastazja , Krzeczyński Piotr , Ionov Maksim , Rogalska Aneta , Gaipl Udo S. , Marczak Agnieszka , Lubgan Dorota
Published: November 2022

Myeloablative therapy with highdoses of the cytostatic drug melphalan (MEL) in preparation for hematopoietic cell transplantation is the standard of care for multiple myeloma (MM) patients. Melphalan is a bifunctional alkylating agent that covalently binds to nucleophilic sites in the DNA and effective in the treatment, but unfortunately has limited therapeutic benefit. Therefore, new approaches are urgently needed for patients who are resistant to existing standard treatment with MEL. Regulating the pharmacological activity of drug molecules by modifying their structure is one method for improving their effectiveness. The purpose of this work was to analyze the physicochemical and biological properties of newly synthesized melphalan derivatives (EE-MEL, EM-MEL, EM-MOR-MEL, EM-I-MEL, EM-T-MEL) obtained through the esterification of the carboxyl group and the replacement of the the amino group with an amidine group. Compounds were selected based on our previous studies for their improved anticancer properties in comparison with the original drug. For this, we first evaluated the physicochemical properties using the circular dichroism technique, then analyzed the zeta potential and the hydrodynamic diameters of the particles. Then, the in vitro biological properties of the analogs were tested on multiple myeloma (RPMI8226), acute monocytic leukemia (THP1), and promyelocytic leukemia (HL60) cells as model systems for hematological malignant cells. DNA damage was assessed by immunostaining γH2AX, cell cycle distribution changes by propidium iodide (PI) staining, and cell death by the activation of caspase 2. We proved that the newly synthesized derivatives, in particular EM-MOR-MEL and EM-T-MEL, affected the B-DNA conformation, thus increasing the DNA damage. As a result of the DNA changes, the cell cycle was arrested in the S and G2/M phases. The cell death occurred by activating a mitotic catastrophe. Our investigations suggest that the analogs EM-MOR-MEL and EM-T-MEL have better anti-cancer activity in multiple myeloma cells than the currently used melphalan.
A Transcriptome and Methylome Study Comparing Tissues of Early and Late Onset Colorectal Carcinoma
Authors: Kibriya Muhammad G , Raza Maruf , Quinn Anthony , Kamal Mohammed , Ahsan Habibul , Jasmine Farzana
Published: November 2022

There is an increase in the incidence of early onset colorectal carcinoma (EOCRC). To better understand if there is any difference in molecular pathogenesis of EOCRC and late onset colorectal carcinoma (LOCRC), we compared the clinical, histological, transcriptome, and methylome profile of paired CRC and healthy colonic tissue from 67 EOCRC and 98 LOCRC patients. The frequency of stage 3 CRC, lymph node involvement, lymphovascular invasion, and perineural invasion was higher in the EOCRC group. Many of the cancer related pathways were differentially expressed in CRC tissue in both EOCRC and LOCRC patients. However, the magnitude of differential expression for some groups of genes, such as DNA damage repair genes and replication stress genes, were significantly less pronounced in the EOCRC group, suggesting less efficient DNA damage repair to be associated with EOCRC. A more marked methylation of “growth factor receptor” genes in LOCRC correlated with a more pronounced down-regulation of those genes in that group. From a therapeutic point of view, more over-expression of fatty acid synthase (FASN) among the LOCRC patients may suggest a better response of FASN targeted therapy in that group. The age of onset of CRC did not appear to modify the response of cis-platin or certain immune checkpoint inhibitors. We found some differences in the molecular pathogenesis in EOCRC and LOCRC that may have some biological and therapeutic significance.
Effects of Residual Composition and Distribution on the Structural Characteristics of the Protein
Authors: Song Qiaoling , Wu Zhenan , Jin Chenghao , Yu Zhichao , Xu Peng , Jiang Zhouting
Published: November 2022

The effect of ratio and consecutive number of hydrophobic residues in the repeating unit of protein chains was investigated by MD simulation. The modified off-lattice HNP model was applied in this study. The protein chains constituted by different HNP ratios or different numbers of consecutively hydrophobic residues with the same chain length were simulated under a broad temperature range. We concluded that the proteins with higher ratio or larger number of sequentially hydrophobic residues present more orientated and compact structure under a certain low temperature. It is attributed to the lower non-bonded potential energy between H-H residual pairs, especially more hydrophobic residues in a procession among the protein chain. Considering the microscopic structure of the protein, more residue contacts are achieved with the proteins with higher ratios and sequential H residues under the low temperature. Meanwhile, with the ratio and consecutive number of H residues increasing, the distribution of stem length showed a transition from exponential decline to unimodal and even multiple peaks, indicating the specific ordered structure formed. These results provide an insight into 3D structural properties of proteins from their residue sequences, which has a primary structure at molecular level and, ultimately, a practical possibility of applying in biotechnological applications.
The Synergistic Effect of Adsorption-Photocatalysis for Removal of Organic Pollutants on Mesoporous Cu2V2O7/Cu3V2O8/g-C3N4 Heterojunction
Authors: Feng Jian , Ran Xia , Wang Li , Xiao Bo , Lei Li , Zhu Jinming , Liu Zuoji , Xi Xiaolan , Feng Guangwei , Dai Zeqin , Li Rong
Published: November 2022

Cu2V2O7/Cu3V2O8/g-C3N4 heterojunctions (CVCs) were prepared successfully by the reheating synthesis method. The thermal etching process increased the specific surface area. The formation of heterojunctions enhanced the visible light absorption and improved the separation efficiency of photoinduced charge carriers. Therefore, CVCs exhibited superior adsorption capacity and photocatalytic performance in comparison with pristine g-C3N4 (CN). CVC-2 (containing 2 wt% of Cu2V2O7/Cu3V2O8) possessed the best synergistic removal efficiency for removal of dyes and antibiotics, in which 96.2% of methylene blue (MB), 97.3% of rhodamine B (RhB), 83.0% of ciprofloxacin (CIP), 86.0% of tetracycline (TC) and 80.5% of oxytetracycline (OTC) were eliminated by the adsorption and photocatalysis synergistic effect under visible light irradiation. The pseudo first order rate constants of MB and RhB photocatalytic degradation on CVC-2 were 3 times and 10 times that of pristine CN. For photocatalytic degradation of CIP, TC and OTC, it was 3.6, 1.8 and 6.1 times that of CN. DRS, XPS VB and ESR results suggested that CVCs had the characteristics of a Z-scheme photocatalytic system. This study provides a reliable reference for the treatment of real wastewater by the adsorption and photocatalysis synergistic process.
Identification of Species-Specific MicroRNAs Provides Insights into Dynamic Evolution of MicroRNAs in Plants
Authors: Guo Zhonglong , Kuang Zheng , Deng Yang , Li Lei , Yang Xiaozeng
Published: November 2022

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are an important class of regulatory small RNAs that program gene expression, mainly at the post-transcriptional level. Although sporadic examples of species-specific miRNAs (termed SS-miRNAs) have been reported, a genome-scale study across a variety of distant species has not been assessed. Here, by comprehensively analyzing miRNAs in 81 plant species phylogenetically ranging from chlorophytes to angiosperms, we identified 8048 species-specific miRNAs from 5499 families, representing over 61.2% of the miRNA families in the examined species. An analysis of the conservation from different taxonomic levels supported the high turnover rate of SS-miRNAs, even over short evolutionary distances. A comparison of the intrinsic features between SS-miRNAs and NSS-miRNAs (non-species-specific miRNAs) indicated that the AU content of mature miRNAs was the most striking difference. Our data further illustrated a significant bias of the genomic coordinates towards SS-miRNAs lying close to or within genes. By analyzing the 125,267 putative target genes for the 7966 miRNAs, we found the preferentially regulated functions of SS-miRNAs related to diverse metabolic processes. Collectively, these findings underscore the dynamic evolution of miRNAs in the species-specific lineages.
The FKBP51 Inhibitor SAFit2 Restores the Pain-Relieving C16 Dihydroceramide after Nerve Injury
Authors: Wedel Saskia , Hahnefeld Lisa , Alnouri Mohamad Wessam , Offermanns Stefan , Hausch Felix , Geisslinger Gerd , Sisignano Marco
Published: November 2022

Neuropathic pain is a pathological pain state with a broad symptom scope that affects patients after nerve injuries, but it can also arise after infections or exposure to toxic substances. Current treatment possibilities are still limited because of the low efficacy and severe adverse effects of available therapeutics, highlighting an emerging need for novel analgesics and for a detailed understanding of the pathophysiological alterations in the onset and maintenance of neuropathic pain. Here, we show that the novel and highly specific FKBP51 inhibitor SAFit2 restores lipid signaling and metabolism in nervous tissue after nerve injury. More specifically, we identify that SAFit2 restores the levels of the C16 dihydroceramide, which significantly reduces the sensitization of the pain-mediating TRPV1 channel and subsequently the secretion of the pro-inflammatory neuropeptide CGRP in primary sensory neurons. Furthermore, we show that the C16 dihydroceramide is capable of reducing acute thermal hypersensitivity in a capsaicin mouse model. In conclusion, we report for the first time the C16 dihydroceramide as a novel and crucial lipid mediator in the context of neuropathic pain as it has analgesic properties, contributing to the pain-relieving properties of SAFit2.
Tumor Cell Capture Using Platelet-Based and Platelet-Mimicking Modified Human Serum Albumin Submicron Particles
Authors: Zhao Xiaotong , Georgieva Radostina , Rerkshanandana Pichayut , Hackmann Moritz , Heil Olaizola Lara-Elena , Müller-de Ahna Maxine , Bäumler Hans
Published: November 2022

The co-localization of platelets and tumor cells in hematogenous metastases has long been recognized. Interactions between platelets and circulating tumor cells (CTCs) contribute to tumor cell survival and migration via the vasculature into other tissues. Taking advantage of the interactions between platelets and tumor cells, two schemes, direct and indirect, were proposed to target the modified human serum albumin submicron particles (HSA-MPs) towards tumor cells. HSA-MPs were constructed by the Co-precipitation–Crosslinking–Dissolution (CCD) method. The anti-CD41 antibody or CD62P protein was linked to the HSA-MPs separately via 1-ethyl-3-(-3-dimethyl aminopropyl) carbodiimide hydrochloride (EDC) and N-hydroxysuccinimide (NHS) EDC/NHS chemistry. The size of modified HSA-MPs was measured at approximately 1 µm, and the zeta potential was around −24 mV. Anti-CD41-HSA-MPs adhered to platelets as shown by flowcytometry and confocal laser scanning microscopy. In vitro, we confirmed the adhesion of platelets to tumor lung carcinoma cells A549 under shearing conditions. Higher cellular uptake of anti-CD41-HSA-MPs in A549 cells was found in the presence of activated platelets, suggesting that activated platelets can mediate the uptake of these particles. RNA-seq data in the Cancer Cell Lineage Encyclopedia (CCLE) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database showed the expression of CD62P ligands in different types of cancers. Compared to the non-targeted system, CD62P-HSA-MPs were found to have higher cellular uptake in A549 cells. Our results suggest that the platelet-based and platelet-mimicking modified HSA-MPs could be promising options for tracking metastatic cancer.
The Consequences of Water Interactions with Nitrogen-Containing Carbonaceous Quantum Dots—The Mechanistic Studies
Authors: Wiśniewski Marek
Published: November 2022

Despite the importance of quantum dots in a wide range of biological, chemical, and physical processes, the structure of the molecular layers surrounding their surface in solution remains unknown. Thus, knowledge about the interaction mechanism of Nitrogen enriched Carbonaceous Quantum Dots’ (N-CQDs) surface with water—their natural environment—is highly desirable. A diffusive and Stern layer over the N-CQDs, characterized in situ, reveals the presence of anionic water clusters [OH(H2O)n]−. Their existence explains new observations: (i) the unexpectedly low adsorption enthalpy (ΔHads) in a pressure range below 0.1 p/ps, and ΔHads being as high as 190 kJ/mol at 0.11 p/ps; (ii) the presence of a “conductive window” isolating nature—at p/ps below 0.45—connected to the formation of smaller clusters and increasing conductivity above 0.45 p/ps, (iii) Stern layer stability; and (iv) superhydrophilic properties of the tested material. These observables are the consequences of H2O dissociative adsorption on N-containing basic centers. The additional direct application of surfaces formed by N-CQDs spraying is the possibility of creating antistatic, antifogging, bio-friendly coatings.
Telehealth-Based Health Coaching Produces Significant Weight Loss over 12 Months in a Usual Care Setting
Authors: Johnson Kelly , Gutierrez Elizabeth , Dionicio Patricia , McConnell Jeremy , Sauls Rachel , Alencar Michelle
Published: November 2022

Background: Telehealth-based health coaching in a usual care setting has yet to be examined. The purpose of this study was to incorporate the inHealth Lifestyle Therapeutics, Inc.’s Telehealth Enabled Approach to Multidisciplinary Care (TEAM) method within a real-world routine clinical care setting to reduce body weight in obese participants. Materials and Methods: n = 70 participants were recruited for this intervention (Age: 58.1 ± 14.6yrs, BMI: 35.5 ± 7.8 kg/m2, 32 males and 38 females). All participants self-selected participation in either the virtual health coaching (VHC) group or usual care (UC) group. VHC participants met with a medical doctor monthly and a certified health coach weekly for the first 12 weeks of the study, bi-weekly for the following 12 weeks, and monthly for the remaining 6 months. Data were analyzed using a two-sample student’s t-test to assess any changes from baseline for both VHC and UC groups. Results: A significant difference for weight-loss between VHC and UC groups (8.24 ± 9.8 vs. 0.16 ± 10.6 kg, respectively, p < 0.05) was observed. In addition, there was a significant change in the mean percentage of body weight loss (6.5 ± 0.1% vs. 0.53 ± 1.45%, respectively, p < 0.05) between groups. Conclusions: Incorporating innovative deliveries that are scalable, such as telehealth-based interventions, may help stem the tide of patient obesity related care. Furthermore, using a TEAM method in a usual care setting may be effective for inducing sustained weight loss at 12 months.
Influence of Kinematic Parameters of Carbon Dioxide Turbine on Its Coefficient of Efficiency and Dimensions
Authors: Osipov Sergey , Zlyvko Olga , Miliukov Igor , Berdyugin Kirill , Lvov Dmitriy
Published: November 2022

To reduce carbon dioxide emissions into the environment, the energy sector develops oxygen-fuel energy cycles. One of the most promising cycles is the Allam cycle that features the highest efficiency of electricity generation among all others. One of the main elements of an oxy-fuel energy cycle is a high-temperature carbon dioxide turbine. The turbine’s working fluid and coolant consist predominantly of carbon dioxide at a supercritical pressure. Currently, there are no recommendations in the literature for the design of carbon dioxide turbines for an oxy-fuel energy system (OFES) operating according to the Allam cycle; therefore, there is a need to study the influence of parameters of the flow path of carbon dioxide turbines on its efficiency and overall performance. In this paper, we have presented the results of one-dimensional calculations of a flow path of the carbon dioxide turbine for the Allam cycle with a capacity of 300 MW, with an initial temperature and pressure of 1100 °C and 30 MPa, and an outlet pressure of 3 MPa. The study was carried out by varying the rotor speed, the reactivity level and the average diameter. Based on the results of one-dimensional calculations, we have found that the highest efficiency of the turbine flow path is achieved at a speed of 471 rad/s, a reactivity of 0.5, and an average diameter of 1.1 m for the first stage.
Characterisation of Fibre Bundle Deformation Behaviour—Test Rig, Results and Conclusions
Authors: Borowski Andreas , Gröger Benjamin , Füßel René , Gude Maik
Published: November 2022

Deformation of continuous fibre reinforced plastics during thermally-assisted forming or joining processes leads to a change of the initial material structure. The load behaviour of composite parts strongly depends on the resultant material structure. The prediction of this material structure is a challenging task and requires a deep knowledge of the material behaviour above melting temperature and the occurring complex forming phenomena. Through this knowledge, the optimisation of manufacturing parameters for a more efficient and reproducible process can be enabled and are in the focus of many investigations. In the present paper, a simplified pultrusion test rig is developed and presented to investigate the deformation behaviour of a thermoplastic semi-finished fiber product in a forming element. Therefore, different process parameters, like forming element temperature, pulling velocity as well as the forming element geometry, are varied. The deformation behaviour in the forming zone of the thermoplastic preimpregnated continuous glass fibre-reinforced material is investigated by computed tomography and the resultant pulling forces are measured. The results clearly show the correlation between the forming element temperature and the resulting forces due to a change in the viscosity of the thermoplastic matrix and the resulting fiber matrix interaction. In addition, the evaluation of the measurement data shows which forming forces are required to change the shape of the thermoplastic unidirectional material with a rectangular cross-section to a round one.
Vibration Cascade Control for Motor-Driven Deep-Sea Robot Cable System with Actuator Fault
Authors: Rao Hangyu , Wang Naige , Du Rui
Published: November 2022

In this paper, we investigated the cascade controller of a motor-driven deep-sea robot cable system (MDRCS), which consists of the outer loop system and the inner loop system connected by a motor thrust with unknown factors, typically forming a crucial problem along with actuator failures, and is accommodated by a fault control created for the deep-sea model. Furthermore, the non-linear disturbance observer compensates for the external disturbance by using the high-gain state observer to estimate parameters and reduce the effects of measurement inaccuracy from the sensors. We suggested an output feedback boundary controller for the outer loop system to get the thrust and eliminate the transverse cable vibration as well as a multiplicative inverse controller for the motor system to form a cascade controller. The Lyapunov approach is then used to demonstrate the stability of the deep-sea robot cable system and motor system. The results demonstrated the effectiveness of the suggested controller and fault control in the presence of the actuator fault, presented with the appropriate parameters on MDRCS.
Hydrology and Dynamics in the Gulf of Naples during Spring of 2016: In Situ and Model Data
Authors: Gifuni Luigi , de Ruggiero Paola , Cianelli Daniela , Zambianchi Enrico , Pierini Stefano
Published: November 2022

The hydrology and circulation in the northwestern part of the Gulf of Naples are analyzed during the transition period from spring to summer (April–June) 2016 through numerical simulations and in situ observations. The simulations were performed with the high-resolution sigma-coordinate Campania Regional Ocean Model (CROM) encompassing the wider Campania coastal system. Temperature, salinity and density were measured at the Long Term Ecological Research Program Mare-Chiara sampling site located two miles from the coast, while current intensity and direction were measured in situ by an acoustic Doppler current profiler connected to an elastic beacon anchored at a short distance from the city of Naples. The modeled circulation scenarios and the marine hydrology provided by the model on a regular grid allow interpreting the observational data during the selected period. In turn, the model-data comparison clarifies the model performance in reproducing the nearshore marine dynamics, which goes beyond the actual model resolution.
Bioactive Alkaloids from the Marine-Derived Fungus Metarhizium sp. P2100
Authors: Yao Guang-Shan , Ma Zhong-Lian , Zheng Yao-Yao , Lv Ling , Mao Jun-Qiu , Wang Chang-Yun
Published: November 2022

The Metarhizium fungal species are considered the prolific producers of bioactive secondary metabolites with a variety of chemical structures. In this study, the biosynthetic potential of marine-derived fungus Metarhizium sp. P2100 to produce bioactive alkaloids was explored by using the one strain many compounds (OSMAC) strategy. From the rice solid medium (mixed with glucose peptone and yeast broth (GPY)), wheat solid medium (mixed with Czapek) and GPY liquid medium, one rare N-butenone spiroquinazoline alkaloid, N-butenonelapatin A (1), together with nine known compounds (2–10), were isolated and identified. Their structures were elucidated by analysis of the comprehensive spectroscopic data, including 1D and 2D NMR and HRESIMS, and the absolute configuration of 1 was determined by a single-crystal X-ray crystallographic experiment. N-butenonelapatin A (1) represents the first example of N-butenone spiroquinazoline with a rare α, β-unsaturated ketone side chain in the family of spiroquinazoline alkaloids. Compound 4 displayed antibacterial activity against Vibrio vulnificus MCCC E1758 with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value of 6.25 µg/mL. Compound 7 exhibited antibacterial activities against three aquatic pathogenic bacteria, including V. vulnificus MCCC E1758, V. rotiferianus MCCC E385 and V. campbellii MCCC E333 with the MIC values of 12.5, 12.5 and 6.25 μg/mL, respectively. Compounds 3 and 6 demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity against NO production induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) with the IC50 values of 37.08 and 37.48 μM, respectively. In addition, compound 1 showed weak inhibitory activity against the proliferation of tumor cell lines A-375 and HCT 116. These findings further demonstrated that fungi of the Metarhizium species harbor great potentials in the synthesis of a variety of bioactive alkaloids.
A Bibliometric Analysis of Machine Learning Econometrics in Asset Pricing
Authors: Zapata Hector O. , Mukhopadhyay Supratik
Published: November 2022

Machine learning (ML) is a novel method that has applications in asset pricing and that fits well within the problem of measurement in economics. Unlike econometrics, ML models are not designed for parameter estimation and inference, but similar to econometrics, they address, and may be better suited for, problems of prediction. While some ML methods have been applied in econometrics for decades, their success in prediction has been limited, and examples of this abound in the asset pricing literature. In recent years, the ML literature has advanced new, more efficient, computation methods for regularization, modeling nonlinearity, and improved out-of-sample prediction. This article conducted a comprehensive, objective, and quantitative bibliometric analysis of this growing literature using Web of Science (WoS) data. We identified trends in the literature over the past decade, the geographical distribution of articles, authorship, and institutional contributions worldwide. The paper also identifies the dominant literature using citations in WoS and discusses computational algorithms that are expanding the econometric frontiers in asset pricing. The top cited papers were reviewed, highlighting their contribution. The limitations of ML learning methods and recent advances in ML were used to provide a conic view to future ML econometric practice.
Examining the Role of Personality Traits, Digital Technology Skills and Competency on the Effectiveness of Fraud Risk Assessment among External Auditors
Authors: Mat Ridzuan Nurul Izzaty , Said Jamaliah , Razali Fazlida Mohd , Abdul Manan Dewi Izzwi , Sulaiman Norhayati
Published: November 2022

In accordance with ISA 240, it is the responsibility of external auditors to obtain reasonable assurance that financial statements are free from material misstatement, whether caused by fraud or error. Recently, the auditing profession in Malaysia has been significantly challenged by the explosion of fraud cases and by auditors’ failure to determine the “true and fair view” of the financial statement. This incident has tarnished the reputation of the audit profession. The effectiveness of the external auditor function, especially when related to fraud risk assessment, is commonly called into question. Hence, this study aims to assess individual factors (personality traits, digital technology skills, and competency) that may contribute to the effectiveness of fraud risk assessment among external auditors. A total of 455 questionnaires were distributed to external auditors, and a total of 150 (32.96%) responses were received. Data were thoroughly analyzed using Smart-PLS 4.0. This study found that digital technology skills contribute to the effectiveness of fraud risk assessment, whereas personality traits and competency do not. The findings implied that an effective technique of fraud risk assessment among external auditors requires digital technology skills. This study contributes to the literature by confirming the critical role of digital technology skills in enhancing the effectiveness of fraud risk assessments.
Development of Marina Services in the Context of Sustainable Water and Coastal Tourism
Authors: Skaržauskienė Aelita , Labanauskaitė Daiva , Timonina-Mickevičienė Ana
Published: November 2022

The popularity of water and coastal tourism is steadily increasing. Marinas, an essential part of water tourism activity, are complex organizations with heterogeneous business structures with numerous suppliers of various tourist services. The purpose of this research was to determine the components of marina services that are relevant for visitors of the marina in the context of sustainable water and coastal tourism. The study’s preliminary results show that the orientation towards sustainable tourism significantly influences the behavior of visitors. Consumers of marina services would like the marinas to offer more services: not only boatyard facilities, but also catering, accommodation services, safe infrastructure for children, additional entertainment, and public events.
Characterization of Cross-Species Transmission of Drosophila melanogaster Nora Virus
Authors: Buhlke Ella G. , Hobbs Alexis M. , Rajput Sunanda , Rokusek Blase , Carlson Darby J. , Gillan Chelle , Carlson Kimberly A.
Published: November 2022

Drosophila melanogaster Nora virus (DmNV) is a novel picorna-like virus first characterized in 2006. Since then, Nora virus has been detected in several non-Drosophila species, including insects in the Orders Hymenoptera, Lepidoptera, Coleoptera, and Orthoptera. The objective of this study was to determine if DmNV could infect individuals of other species of invertebrates besides D. melanogaster. The presence of DmNV in native invertebrates and commercially available stocks was determined. Laboratory-reared D. yakuba, D. mercatorum, Gryllodes sigillatus, Tenebrio molitor, Galleria mellonella, and Musca domestica were intentionally infected with DmNV. In addition, native invertebrates were collected and D. melanogaster stocks were purchased and screened for DmNV presence using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) before being intentionally infected for study. All Drosophila species and other invertebrates, except M. domestica, that were intentionally infected with DmNV ended up scoring positive for the virus via RT-PCR. DmNV infection was also detected in three native invertebrates (Spilosoma virginica, Diplopoda, and Odontotaenius disjunctus) and all commercially available stocks tested. These findings suggest that DmNV readily infects individuals of other species of invertebrates, while also appearing to be an endemic virus in both wild and laboratory D. melanogaster populations. The detection of DmNV in commercially available stocks presents a cautionary message for scientists using these stocks in studies of virology and immunology.
Trans-Sclera Electrical Stimulation Improves Retinal Function in a Mouse Model of Retinitis Pigmentosa
Authors: Liu Feng , Zhang Mengrong , Xiong Guoyin , Han Xiu , Lee Vincent , So Kwok-Fai , Chiu Kin , Xu Ying
Published: November 2022

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a photoreceptor-degenerating disease with no effective treatment. Trans-corneal electrical stimulation has neuroprotective effects in degenerating retinas, but repeated applications cause corneal injury. To avoid the risk of corneal damage, here we tested whether repetitive trans-sclera electrical stimulation (TsES) protects degenerating retinas in rd10 mice, a model of RP. At postnatal day 20 (P20), the right eyes of rd10 mice were exposed to 30 min of TsES daily or every other day till P25, at the amplitude of 50 or 100 μA, with zero current as the sham. Immunostaining, multi-electrode-array (MEA) recording, and a black-and-white transition box were applied to examine the morphological and functional changes of the treated retina. Functionally, TsES modified the retinal light responses. It also reduced the high spontaneous firing of retinal ganglion cells. TsES at 100 μA but not 50 μA increased the light sensitivities of ganglion cells as well as their signal-to-noise ratios. TsES at 100 μA increased the survival of photoreceptors without improving the visual behavior of rd10 mice. Our data suggest that repetitive TsES improves the retinal function of rd10 mice at the early degenerating stage, therefore, it might be an effective long-term strategy to delay retinal degeneration in RP patients.
Influence of Lingual Tonsillar Volume in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Kang Yung Jee , Kim Byung Kil , Hong Sang Duk , Jung Yong Gi , Ryu Gwanghui , Kim Hyo Yeol
Published: November 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the influence of lingual tonsil (LT) volume measured using a three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction volume rendering program on clinical parameters and polysomnography (PSG) results. A total of 100 patients who underwent PSG, computed tomography (CT), and allergy test from April 2016 to April 2020 were randomly selected. LT volume was measured using an imaging software program that enables 3D reconstruction of CT images. PSG parameters were analyzed by dividing the subjects into two groups according to LT volume (each 50 people). Based on the medial volume of 0.863 cm3, the upper half LT volume group and the lower half LT volume group were analyzed. Clinical factors such as body weight, neck circumference, body mass index (BMI), and age showed no difference between the two groups. Among PSG parameters, supine arousal index and non-rapid eye movement (NREM) arousal index were significantly higher in the upper half LT volume group (p = 0.012, 0.037). However, there was no significant difference in apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) between the upper and lower half LT volume groups (p = 0.749). Arousal snoring index and REM arousal index also showed no difference between the two groups. The prevalence of allergic rhinitis was not different in the two groups. High LT volume is associated with NREM arousal and arousal in the supine position, but it is not related to AHI.
Foliar Application of Spermidine Alleviates Waterlogging-Induced Damages to Maize Seedlings by Enhancing Antioxidative Capacity, Modulating Polyamines and Ethylene Biosynthesis
Authors: Wang Xiuling , Wang Qun , Zhang Moubiao , Zhao Yulong , Dong Pengfei , Zhao Yali , Li Hongping , Jia Xucun , An Panpan , Tang Yulou , Li Chaohai
Published: November 2022

Waterlogging is a major threat to maize production worldwide. The exogenous application of spermidine is well known to enhance plant tolerance to abiotic stresses. The role of exogenous spermidine application in waterlogging tolerance in maize was investigated in this study. Two maize varieties (a waterlogging-tolerant variety: Xundan 20 (XD20) and a waterlogging-sensitive variety: Denghai 662 (DH662)) were subjected to waterlogging stress at the seedling stage, and then foliar spraying of 0.75 mM spermidine or purified water. Findings demonstrated lower chlorophyll content, reduced growth indices, considerable increase in superoxide anion (O2−) generation rate, and H2O2/malondialdehyde accumulation in the two maize varieties under waterlogging stress compared to the control treatment. However, the tolerance variety performed better than the sensitive one. Foliar application of spermidine significantly increased antioxidant enzyme activities under waterlogging stress. In addition, the application of spermidine increased polyamine levels and led to the reduction of ethylene levels under waterlogging. Consequences of spermidine application were most apparent for the waterlogging-sensitive cultivar DH662 under waterlogging than the waterlogging-tolerant variety XD20.
The Indigenous Logistics System in Africa: The Case of Nigeria, Past to Present
Authors: Adeleke Adebayo
Published: November 2022

Background: Centuries after its introduction in Africa, the western-style logistics system has not replicated the same results as it has in other parts of the world. The continent continues to grapple with poor logistics infrastructure and low intra-Africa trade at a time when governments in Africa are committed towards the expansion of trade and manufacturing through the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement. There is a pressing need, therefore, for the development of a logistics system designed for the African socioeconomic environment and the peculiarities of the people. Methods: This paper examines the operations of the Indigenous Logistics Systems (ILS) in pre-colonial Nigeria and its development over time through qualitative data gathered from the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria and a review of literature. Results: ILS in Nigeria is the cultural creation of the people through the efficient management of available resources and the use of indigenous knowledge. The system derives its strengths and effectiveness from its availability, simplicity, affordability, and trust. Conclusions: The paper concludes that if improved with the application of simple technology, ILS has the answers to the challenges of logistics and Supply Chain Management (SCM) in Africa.
Elastic Moduli of Non-Chiral Singe-Walled Silicon Carbide Nanotubes: Numerical Simulation Study
Authors: Sakharova Nataliya A. , Pereira André F. G. , Antunes Jorge M.
Published: November 2022

Silicon carbide nanotubes (SiCNTs) have generated significant research interest due to their potential use in the fabrication of electronic and optoelectronic nanodevices and biosensors. The exceptional chemical, electrical and thermal properties of SiCNTs are beneficial for their application in high-temperature and harsh-environments. In view of the limited thermal stability of carbon nanotubes, they can be replaced by silicon carbide nanotubes in reinforced composites, developed for operations at high temperatures. However, fundamentally theoretical studies of the mechanical properties of the silicon carbide nanotubes are at an early stage and their results are still insufficient for designing and exploiting appropriate nanodevices based on SiCNTs and reinforced composites. In this context, the present study deals with the determination of Young’s and shear moduli of non-chiral single-walled silicon carbide nanotubes, using a three-dimensional finite element model.
Cost and Quality Optimization Taguchi Design with Grey Relational Analysis of Halloysite Nanotube Hybrid Composite: CNC Machine Manufacturing
Authors: Esangbedo Moses Olabhele , Abifarin Johnson Kehinde
Published: November 2022

Researchers who work on manufacturing hybrid composites have significant concerns about holistically optimizing more than one performance characteristic, as in the case of cost and quality optimization. They usually trade off one for the other. Hence, this study employed statistical tools and grey relational analyses (GRA) design to model and optimize the surface roughness and cutting force of Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine settings to manufacture halloysite nanotube hybrid composite. In this paper, the GRA was able to address the multiple optimization complications by producing 0.6 mm depth of cut, 1500 rpm spindle speed, and 40 mmpm feed rate as the CNC machine settings for high-quality and low-cost hybrid composite. It was noticed that the mathematical and interaction modeling of surface roughness, cutting force, and grey relational grade (GRG) allowed different CNC machines to manufacture hybrid composites. This can assist researchers and production engineers of CNC machines. Variance analysis and delta statistical characteristics revealed that the depth of a cut is the most significant machine setting, with a contribution of 49.12%. This paper outlines the possible CNC machine settings for high-quality composite manufacturing. In future studies, it is recommended for researchers in the field of CNC machine manufacturing to consider the modeling analysis aspect of the optimization, which comprehensively provides the opportunity for the adjustment of CNC machines for better material performance, which has been lacking in the literature.
Lithium-Ion Batteries under Low-Temperature Environment: Challenges and Prospects
Authors: Luo Hanwu , Wang Yuandong , Feng Yi-Hu , Fan Xin-Yu , Han Xiaogang , Wang Peng-Fei
Published: November 2022

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are at the forefront of energy storage and highly demanded in consumer electronics due to their high energy density, long battery life, and great flexibility. However, LIBs usually suffer from obvious capacity reduction, security problems, and a sharp decline in cycle life under low temperatures, especially below 0 °C, which can be mainly ascribed to the decrease in Li+ diffusion coefficient in both electrodes and electrolyte, poor transfer kinetics on the interphase, high Li+ desolvation barrier in the electrolyte, and severe Li plating and dendrite. Targeting such issues, approaches to improve the kinetics and stability of cathodes are also dissected, followed by the evaluation of the application prospects and modifications between various anodes and the strategies of electrolyte design including cosolvent, blended Li salts, high-concentration electrolyte, and additive introduction. Such designs elucidate the successful exploration of low-temperature LIBs with high energy density and long lifespan. This review prospects the future paths of research for LIBs under cold environments, aiming to provide insightful guidance for the reasonable design of LIBs under low temperature, accelerating their widespread application and commercialization.
Structural Morphology and Optical Properties of Strontium-Doped Cobalt Aluminate Nanoparticles Synthesized by the Combustion Method
Authors: Kanithan Sivaraman , Vignesh Natarajan Arun , Baskar Siva , Nagaraja Santhosh , Abbas Mohamed , Aabid Abdul , Baig Muneer
Published: November 2022

The study of structural morphology and the optical properties of nanoparticles produced by combustion methods are gaining significance due to their multifold applications. In this regard, in the present work, the strontium-doped cobalt aluminate nanoparticles were synthesized by utilizing Co1−xSrxAl2O4 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.5) L-Alanine as a fuel in an ignition cycle. Subsequently, several characterization studies viz., X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis, high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (HRSEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM) were accomplished to study the properties of the materials. The XRD analysis confirmed the cubic spinel structure, and the average crystallite size was found to be in the range of 14 to 20 nm using the Debye–Scherrer equation. High-resolution scanning electron microscopy was utilized to inspect the morphology of the Co1−xSrxAl2O4 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.5) nanoparticles. Further, EDS studies were accomplished to determine the chemical composition. Kubelka–Munk’s approach was used to determine the band gap, and the values were found to be in the range of 3.18–3.32 eV. The energy spectra for the nanoparticles were in the range of 560–1100 cm−1, which is due to the spinel structure of Sr-doped CoAl2O4 nanoparticles. The behavior plots of magnetic induction (M) against the magnetic (H) loops depict the ferromagnetic behavior of the nanomaterials synthesized.