bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single Cell Sequencing Reveals Mechanisms of Persistent Truncus Arteriosus Formation after PDGFRα and PDGFRβ Double Knockout in Cardiac Neural Crest Cells
Authors: Chen Tianyun , Song Shen , Jiang Haobin , Lian Hong , Hu Shengshou
Published: September 2022

Persistent truncus arteriosus (PTA) is an uncommon and complex congenital cardiac malformation accounting for about 1.2% of all congenital heart diseases (CHDs), which is caused by a deficiency in the embryonic heart outflow tract’s (OFT) septation and remodeling. PDGFRα and PDGFRβ double knockout (DKO) in cardiac neural crest cells (CNCCs) has been reported to cause PTA, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we constructed a PTA mouse model with PDGFRα and PDGFRβ double knockout in Pax3+ CNCCs and described the condensation failure into OFT septum of CNCC-derived cells due to disturbance of cell polarity in the DKO group. In addition, we further explored the mechanism with single-cell RNA sequencing. We found that two main cell differentiation trajectories into vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) from cardiomyocytes (CMs) and mesenchymal cells (MSs), respectively, were interrupted in the DKO group. The process of CM differentiation into VSMC stagnated in a transitional CM I-like state, which contributed to the failure of OFT remodeling and muscular septum formation. On the other hand, a Penk+ transitional MS II cluster closely related to cell condensation into the OFT septum disappeared, which led to the OFT’s septation absence directly. In conclusion, the disturbance of CNCC-derived cells caused by PDGFRα and PDGFRβ knockout can lead to the OFT septation disorder and the occurrence of PTA.
Herbal Medicines for Post-Acute Sequelae (Fatigue or Cognitive Dysfunction) of SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Phase 2 Pilot Clinical Study Protocol
Authors: Jegal Kyung Hwan , Yoon Jiwon , Kim Sanghyun , Jang Soobin , Jin Young-Hee , Lee Jun-Hwan , Choi Sun-Mi , Kim Tae Hun , Kwon Sunoh
Published: September 2022

Long-term sequelae refer to persistent symptoms or signs for >6 months after SARS-CoV-2 infection. The most common symptoms of sequelae are fatigue and neuropsychiatric symptoms (concentration difficulty, amnesia, cognitive dysfunction, anxiety, and depression). However, approved treatments have not been fully established. Herbal medicines are administered for 12 weeks to patients who continuously complain of fatigue or cognitive dysfunction for >4 weeks that only occurred after COVID-19 diagnoses. Based on the Korean Medicine syndrome differentiation diagnosis, patients with fatigue will be administered Bojungikgi-tang or Kyungok-go, whereas those with cognitive dysfunction will be administered Cheonwangbosim-dan. Results could support evidence that herbal medicines may mitigate fatigue and cognitive dysfunction caused by COVID-19. Furthermore, by investigating the effects of herbal medicines on changes in metabolite and immune response due to COVID-19, which may be responsible for sequelae, the potential of herbal medicines as one of the therapeutic interventions for post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection can be evaluated. Therefore, the effects of herbal medicine on fatigue and cognitive dysfunction sequelae due to COVID-19 will be elucidated in this study to provide an insight into the preparation of medical management for the post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Leading Diverse Workforces: Perspectives from Managers and Employers about Dyslexic Employees in Australian Workplaces
Authors: Wissell Shae , Karimi Leila , Serry Tanya , Furlong Lisa , Hudson Judith
Published: September 2022

Background: Dyslexia is a specific learning disability affecting around 1 in 10 Australian adults. It presents unique challenges for employees in the workforce, yet community and workplace awareness of the challenges of dyslexia is limited. The aim of this preliminary research was to explore the experiences and perspectives of Australian employers and managers responsible for supervising employees with dyslexia in the workplace. Materials and Methods: Using a qualitative research design, we conducted in-depth interviews with four managers who had current or previous experience managing employees with dyslexia. We used a deductive approach to analyse the data and categorise responses to the study questions. Results: Participant responses indicated that there is a lack of awareness and understanding of dyslexia within Australian workplaces. Participants identified challenges facing employees with dyslexia in the workplace including, differing personal levels of confidence and comfort in disclosing disability; the possibility of discrimination, and a lack of inclusive organisational practices and processes. Suggestions for ways to improve workplaces for dyslexic employees included: additional support for leaders and managers to drive inclusive leadership, and additional training for leaders and managers on how to best support employees with dyslexia. Conclusions: While only a small sample size, this study indicates that further research is needed to better understand the working environment of Australian leaders and managers. It appears that leaders and mangers need skills and knowledge to better support employees with dyslexia and in doing so create more inclusive workplaces.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of MAPK Gene Family in Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) and Functional Analysis of LsMAPK4 in High- Temperature-Induced Bolting
Authors: Wang Tingzhen , Liu Mingjia , Wu Yang , Tian Yufeng , Han Yingyan , Liu Chaojie , Hao Jinghong , Fan Shuangxi
Published: September 2022

The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway is a widely distributed signaling cascade in eukaryotes and is involved in regulating plant growth, development, and stress responses. High temperature, a frequently occurring environmental stressor, causes premature bolting in lettuce with quality decline and yield loss. However, whether MAPKs play roles in thermally induced bolting remains poorly understood. In this study, 17 LsMAPK family members were identified from the lettuce genome. The physical and chemical properties, subcellular localization, chromosome localization, phylogeny, gene structure, family evolution, cis-acting elements, and phosphorylation sites of the LsMAPK gene family were evaluated via in silico analysis. According to phylogenetic relationships, LsMAPKs can be divided into four groups, A, B, C, and D, which is supported by analyses of gene structure and conserved domains. The collinearity analysis showed that there were 5 collinearity pairs among LsMAPKs, 8 with AtMAPKs, and 13 with SlMAPKs. The predicted cis-acting elements and potential phosphorylation sites were closely associated with hormones, stress resistance, growth, and development. Expression analysis showed that most LsMAPKs respond to high temperatures, among which LsMAPK4 is significantly and continuously upregulated upon heat treatments. Under heat stress, the stem length of the LsMAPK4-knockdown lines was significantly shorter than that of the control plants, and the microscope observations demonstrated that the differentiation time of flower buds at the stem apex was delayed accordingly. Therefore, silencing of LsMAPK4 significantly inhibited the high- temperature-accelerated bolting in lettuce, indicating that LsMPAK4 might be a potential regulator of lettuce bolting. This study provides a theoretical basis for a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the MAPK genes in high-temperature-induced bolting.
Effects of RAGE Deletion on the Cardiac Transcriptome during Aging
Authors: Scavello Francesco , Piacentini Luca , Castiglione Stefania , Zeni Filippo , Macrì Federica , Casaburo Manuel , Vinci Maria Cristina , Colombo Gualtiero I. , Raucci Angela
Published: September 2022

Cardiac aging is characterized by increased cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, myocardial stiffness, and fibrosis, which enhance cardiovascular risk. The receptor for advanced glycation end-products (RAGE) is involved in several age-related diseases. RAGE knockout (Rage−/−) mice show an acceleration of cardiac dimension changes and interstitial fibrosis with aging. This study identifies the age-associated cardiac gene expression signature induced by RAGE deletion. We analyzed the left ventricle transcriptome of 2.5-(Young), 12-(Middle age, MA), and 21-(Old) months-old female Rage−/− and C57BL/6N (WT) mice. By comparing Young, MA, and Old Rage−/− versus age-matched WT mice, we identified 122, 192, and 12 differently expressed genes, respectively. Functional inference analysis showed that RAGE deletion is associated with: (i) down-regulation of genes involved in antigen processing and presentation of exogenous antigen, adaptive immune response, and cellular responses to interferon beta and gamma in Young animals; (ii) up-regulation of genes related to fatty acid oxidation, cardiac structure remodeling and cellular response to hypoxia in MA mice; (iii) up-regulation of few genes belonging to complement activation and triglyceride biosynthetic process in Old animals. Our findings show that the age-dependent cardiac phenotype of Rage−/− mice is associated with alterations of genes related to adaptive immunity and cardiac stress pathways.
Full-Length Transcriptome Maps of Reef-Building Coral Illuminate the Molecular Basis of Calcification, Symbiosis, and Circadian Genes
Authors: Han Tingyu , Liao Xin , Zhu Yunchi , Liu Yunqing , Lu Na , Li Yixin , Guo Zhuojun , Chen J.-Y. , He Chunpeng , Lu Zuhong
Published: September 2022

Coral transcriptomic data largely rely on short-read sequencing, which severely limits the understanding of coral molecular mechanisms and leaves many important biological questions unresolved. Here, we sequence the full-length transcriptomes of four common and frequently dominant reef-building corals using the PacBio Sequel II platform. We obtain information on reported gene functions, structures, and expression profiles. Among them, a comparative analysis of biomineralization-related genes provides insights into the molecular basis of coral skeletal density. The gene expression profiles of the symbiont Symbiodiniaceae are also isolated and annotated from the holobiont sequence data. Finally, a phylogenetic analysis of key circadian clock genes among 40 evolutionarily representative species indicates that there are four key members in early metazoans, including cry genes; Clock or Npas2; cyc or Arntl; and tim, while per, as the fifth member, occurs in Bilateria. In summary, this work provides a foundation for further work on the manipulation of skeleton production or symbiosis to promote the survival of these important organisms.
Intestinal Epithelial STAT6 Activation Rescues the Defective Anti-Helminth Responses Caused by Ogt Deletion
Authors: Xiong Xiwen , Huang Rong , Li Zun , Yang Chenyan , Wang Qingzhi , Ruan Hai-Bin , Xu Lin
Published: September 2022

Dynamic regulation of intestinal epithelial cell (IEC) proliferation and differentiation is crucial for maintaining mucosa homeostasis and the response to helminth infection. O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT), an enzyme catalyzing the transfer of GlcNAc from the donor substrate UDP-GlcNAc onto acceptor proteins, has been proposed to promote intestinal epithelial remodeling for helminth expulsion by modifying and activating epithelial STAT6, but whether the IEC intrinsic OGT-STAT6 axis is involved in anti-helminth responses has not been tested in vivo. Here, we show that the inducible deletion of Ogt in IECs of adult mice leads to reduced tuft and goblet cell differentiation, increased crypt cell proliferation, and aberrant Paneth cell localization. By using a mouse model with concurrent Ogt deletion and STAT6 overexpression in IECs, we provide direct in vivo evidence that STAT6 acts downstream of OGT to control tuft and goblet cell differentiation in IECs. However, epithelial OGT regulates crypt cell proliferation and Paneth cell differentiation in a STAT6-independent pathway. Our results verify that protein O-GlcNAcylation in IECs is crucial for maintaining epithelial homeostasis and anti-helminthic type 2 immune responses.
Nuclear Functions of KaeA, a Subunit of the KEOPS Complex in Aspergillus nidulans
Authors: Gawlik Joanna , Koper Michal , Bogdanowicz Albert , Weglenski Piotr , Dzikowska Agnieszka
Published: September 2022

Kae1 is a subunit of the highly evolutionarily conserved KEOPS/EKC complex, which is involved in universal (t6A37) tRNA modification. Several reports have discussed the participation of this complex in transcription regulation in yeast and human cells, including our previous observations of KaeA, an Aspergillus nidulans homologue of Kae1p. The aim of this project was to confirm the role of KaeA in transcription, employing high-throughput transcriptomic (RNA-Seq and ChIP-Seq) and proteomic (LC-MS) analysis. We confirmed that KaeA is a subunit of the KEOPS complex in A. nidulans. An analysis of kaeA19 and kaeA25 mutants showed that, although the (t6A37) tRNA modification is unaffected in both mutants, they reveal significantly altered transcriptomes compared to the wild type. The finding that KaeA is localized in chromatin and identifying its protein partners allows us to postulate an additional nuclear function for the protein. Our data shed light on the universal bi-functional role of this factor and proves that the activity of this protein is not limited to tRNA modification in cytoplasm, but also affects the transcriptional activity of a number of nuclear genes. Data are available via the NCBI’s GEO database under identifiers GSE206830 (RNA-Seq) and GSE206874 (ChIP-Seq), and via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD034554 (proteomic).
Potential of Sulforaphane and Broccoli Membrane Vesicles as Regulators of M1/M2 Human Macrophage Activity
Authors: Ramírez-Pavez Tamara , García-Peñaranda Andrea , Garcia-Ibañez Paula , Yepes-Molina Lucía , Carvajal Micaela , Ruiz-Alcaraz Antonio J. , Moreno Diego A. , García-Peñarrubia Pilar , Martínez-Esparza María
Published: September 2022

Macrophages have emerged as important therapeutic targets in many human diseases. The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of broccoli membrane vesicles and sulphoraphane (SFN), either free or encapsulated, on the activity of human monocyte-derived M1 and M2 macrophage primary culture. Our results show that exposure for 24 h to SFN 25 µM, free and encapsulated, induced a potent reduction on the activity of human M1 and M2 macrophages, downregulating proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines and phagocytic capability on C. albicans. The broccoli membrane vesicles do not represent inert nanocarriers, as they have low amounts of bioactive compounds, being able to modulate the cytokine production, depending on the inflammatory state of the cells. They could induce opposite effects to that of higher doses of SFN, reflecting its hormetic effect. These data reinforce the potential use of broccoli compounds as therapeutic agents not only for inflammatory diseases, but they also open new clinical possibilities for applications in other diseases related to immunodeficiency, autoimmunity, or in cancer therapy. Considering the variability of their biological effects in different scenarios, a proper therapeutic strategy with Brassica bioactive compounds should be designed for each pathology.
Associations of miR-181a with Health-Related Quality of Life, Cognitive Functioning, and Clinical Data of Patients with Different Grade Glioma Tumors
Authors: Valiulyte Indre , Pranckeviciene Aiste , Bunevicius Adomas , Tamasauskas Arimantas , Svitina Hanna , Skrypkina Inessa , Vaitkiene Paulina
Published: September 2022

Gliomas are central nervous system tumors with a lethal prognosis. Small micro-RNA molecules participate in various biological processes, are tissue-specific, and, therefore, could be promising targets for cancer treatment. Thus, this study aims to examine miR-181a as a potent biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of glioma patients and, for the first time, to find associations between the expression level of miR-181a and patient quality of life (QoL) and cognitive functioning. The expression level of miR-181a was analyzed in 78 post-operative II-IV grade gliomas by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. The expression profile was compared with patient clinical data (age, survival time after the operation, tumor grade and location, mutation status of isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1), and promoter methylation of O-6-methylguanine methyltransferase). Furthermore, the health-related QoL was assessed using the Karnofsky performance scale and the quality of life questionnaires; while cognitive assessment was assessed by the Hopkins verbal learning test-revised, trail-making test, and phonemic fluency tasks. The expression of miR-181a was significantly lower in tumors of grade III and IV and was associated with IDH1 wild-type gliomas and a worse prognosis of patient overall survival. Additionally, a positive correlation was observed between miR-181a levels and functional status and QoL of glioma patients. Therefore, miR-181a is a unique molecule that plays an important role in gliomagenesis, and is also associated with changes in patients’ quality of life.
Heterozygous Loss of KRIT1 in Mice Affects Metabolic Functions of the Liver, Promoting Hepatic Oxidative and Glycative Stress
Authors: Mastrocola Raffaella , Aimaretti Eleonora , Ferreira Alves Gustavo , Cento Alessia Sofia , Fornelli Claudia , Dal Bello Federica , Ferraris Chiara , Goitre Luca , Perrelli Andrea , Retta Saverio Francesco
Published: September 2022

KRIT1 loss-of-function mutations underlie the pathogenesis of Cerebral Cavernous Malformation (CCM), a major vascular disease affecting the central nervous system (CNS). However, KRIT1 is also expressed outside the CNS and modulates key regulators of metabolic and oxy-inflammatory pathways, including the master transcription factor FoxO1, suggesting a widespread functional significance. Herein, we show that the KRIT1/FoxO1 axis is implicated in liver metabolic functions and antioxidative/antiglycative defenses. Indeed, by performing comparative studies in KRIT1 heterozygous (KRIT1+/−) and wild-type mice, we found that KRIT1 haploinsufficiency resulted in FoxO1 expression/activity downregulation in the liver, and affected hepatic FoxO1-dependent signaling pathways, which are markers of major metabolic processes, including gluconeogenesis, glycolysis, mitochondrial respiration, and glycogen synthesis. Moreover, it caused sustained activation of the master antioxidant transcription factor Nrf2, hepatic accumulation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), and abnormal expression/activity of AGE receptors and detoxifying systems. Furthermore, it was associated with an impairment of food intake, systemic glucose disposal, and plasma levels of insulin. Specific molecular alterations detected in the liver of KRIT1+/− mice were also confirmed in KRIT1 knockout cells. Overall, our findings demonstrated, for the first time, that KRIT1 haploinsufficiency affects glucose homeostasis and liver metabolic and antioxidative/antiglycative functions, thus inspiring future basic and translational studies.
Effects of Post-Harvest Ozone Treatment on Some Molecular Stability Markers of Amelanchier alnifolia Nutt. Fruit during Cold Storage
Authors: Matłok Natalia , Piechowiak Tomasz , Zardzewiały Miłosz , Balawejder Maciej
Published: September 2022

Fruits of Amelanchier alnifolia Nutt. ex M. Roem. (Nutt.) are a good source of bioactive compounds and vitamins. Due to the fact that the berries are a soft fruit, they require special procedures to increase their molecular and mechanical stability during cold storage. The study investigated the effects of ozone treatment applied cyclically (every 24 h) on selected chemical and mechanical parameters of saskatoon berries kept in storage. For this purpose, measurements were performed to assess changes in some molecular markers such as antioxidant potential, content of vitamin C, and total polyphenols, as well as microbial stress and maximum destructive force under uniaxial compression of samples. The effectiveness of the storage process was also assessed in relation to the conditions used by determining the proportion of fruit affected by diseases occurring in storage. The findings show that ozone treatment led to increased content of bioactive compounds at the initial stages of storage and resulted in decreased loss of water and bioactive compounds at the later stages. Ultimately, irrespective of the conditions applied during ozone treatment, it was observed that the growth of micro-organisms on the fruit surface was inhibited, and as a result, storage losses during the relevant period were significantly reduced.
Lipophilic Compounds and Antibacterial Activity of Opuntia ficus-indica Root Extracts from Algeria
Authors: Benramdane Elias , Chougui Nadia , Ramos Patrícia A. B. , Makhloufi Nawal , Tamendjari Abderezak , Silvestre Armando J. D. , Santos Sónia A. O.
Published: September 2022

The chemical composition, investigated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and antibacterial activity of lipophilic extractives of three varieties of Opuntia ficus-indica roots from Algeria are reported in this paper for the first time. The results obtained revealed a total of 55 compounds, including fatty acids, sterols, monoglycerides and long chain aliphatic alcohols that were identified and quantified. β-Sitosterol was found as the major compound of the roots of the three varieties. Furthermore, considerable amounts of essential fatty acids (ω3, ω6, and ω9) such as oleic, linoleic, and linolenic acids were also identified. The green variety was the richest among the three studied varieties. The antibacterial activity, evaluated with disc diffusion method, revealed that lipophilic extracts were effective mainly against Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) (19~23 mm). Gram-negative strains mainly Pseudomonas aeruginosa gave an inhibition zone of 18 mm, which is considered high antibacterial activity. The minimal inhibitory concentrations of the tested bacteria revealed interesting values against the majority of bacteria tested: 75–100 µg mL−1 for Bacillus sp., 250–350 µg/mL for the two Staphylococcus strains, 550–600 µg mL−1 for E. coli, and 750–950 µg mL−1 obtained with Pseudomonas sp. This study allows us to conclude that the lipophilic fractions of cactus roots possess interesting phytochemicals such as steroids, some fatty acids and long chain alcohols that acted as antibiotic-like compounds countering pathogenic strains.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus CY12 Enhances Intestinal Barrier Function by Regulating Tight Junction Protein Expression, Oxidative Stress, and Inflammation Response in Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Caco-2 Cells
Authors: Zheng Juanshan , Ahmad Anum Ali , Yang Yayuan , Liang Zeyi , Shen Wenxiang , Feng Min , Shen Jiahao , Lan Xianyong , Ding Xuezhi
Published: September 2022

The intestinal barrier is vital for preventing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The objectives of this study were to assess whether the Lactobacillus rhamnosus CY12 could alleviate oxidative stress, inflammation, and the disruption of tight junction (TJ) barrier functions induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and therefore to explore the potential underlying molecular mechanisms. Our results showed that LPS-induced Cancer coli-2 (Caco-2) cells significantly increased the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), lactate dehydrogenase, inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, interleukin-8, and tumor necrosis factor-α (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α), and the cell apoptosis rate while decreasing the levels of TJ proteins occludin, zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), and claudin and antioxidant enzymes, such as catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase(CAT, SOD, and GSH-Px) (p < 0.05). However, Lactobacillus rhamnosus CY12 could relieve cytotoxicity, apoptosis, oxidative stress, and pro-inflammatory cytokine expressions, and also inhibit the Toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor kappa-B(TLR4/NF-κB) signaling pathway. Furthermore, the gene expression of antioxidant enzymes, as well as the mRNA and protein expressions of TJ proteins, was improved. Particularly, the concentration of 108 cfu/mL significantly prevented the inflammatory injury induced by LPS in Caco-2 cells (p < 0.05). These findings support a potential application of Lactobacillus rhamnosus CY12 as a probiotic to prevent LPS-induced intestinal injury and treat intestinal barrier dysfunction.
Probing the Potential Mechanism of Quercetin and Kaempferol against Heat Stress-Induced Sertoli Cell Injury: Through Integrating Network Pharmacology and Experimental Validation
Authors: Liu Dian-Long , Liu Si-Jia , Hu Su-Qin , Chen Yu-Cai , Guo Jian
Published: September 2022

Quercetin and kaempferol are flavonoids widely present in fruits, vegetables, and medicinal plants. They have attracted much attention due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antibacterial, and neuroprotective properties. As the guarantee cells in direct contact with germ cells, Sertoli cells exert the role of support, nutrition, and protection in spermatogenesis. In the current study, network pharmacology was used to explore the targets and signaling pathways of quercetin and kaempferol in treating spermatogenic disorders. In vitro experiments were integrated to verify the results of quercetin and kaempferol against heat stress-induced Sertoli cell injury. The online platform was used to analyze the GO biological pathway and KEGG pathway. The results of the network pharmacology showed that quercetin and kaempferol intervention in spermatogenesis disorders were mostly targeting the oxidative response to oxidative stress, the ROS metabolic process and the NFκB pathway. The results of the cell experiment showed that Quercetin and kaempferol can prevent the decline of cell viability induced by heat stress, reduce the expression levels of HSP70 and ROS in Sertoli cells, reduce p-NF-κB-p65 and p-IκB levels, up-regulate the expression of occludin, vimentin and F-actin in Sertoli cells, and protect cell structure. Our research is the first to demonstrate that quercetin and kaempferol may exert effects in resisting the injury of cell viability and structure under heat stress.
Splitting Tensile Strength of Fly Ash-Modified Sand at Various Saturations and Curing Times
Authors: Simatupang Minson , Edwin Romy Suryaningrat , Sulha  , Mustika Wayan , Putra Heriansyah , Yanto Dede Heri Yuli
Published: September 2022

Currently, a soil stabilization approach using fly ash as an effective choice for increasing soil stiffness and strength has emerged. With the presence of water, the lime in the fly ash would be separated, generating cementitious materials binding the grains of sand. In the present study, the influence of curing time and saturation during specimen preparation on the behavior of fly ash-modified sand was observed by performing a series of splitting tensile strength tests. It was found that the splitting tensile strength increases with fly ash content and curing time and decreases with saturation. The splitting tensile strength produced at 30% saturation was approximately two-fold higher than 100%, particularly at one month of curing time. However, the splitting tensile strength at higher saturations approaches lower, especially at longer curing times. Porewater evaporation accelerates the self-hardening occurring over time during curing. By increasing the fly ash percentage from 5% to 20% in the mixture, the splitting tensile strength increased by up to twenty-fold in the present study. An equation has been proposed as a function of porosity/volumetric fly ash content, curing time, and saturation during the preparation of the specimen.
Preliminary Results from ADRIANO2 Test Beams
Authors: Gatto Corrado , Blazey Gerald C. , Dychkant Alexandre , Elam Jeffrey W. , Figora Michael , Fletcher Todd , Francis Kurt , Liu Ao , Los Sergey , Mahieu Cole Le , Mane Anil U. , Marquez Juan , Murray Michael J. , Ramberg Erik , Royon Christophe , Syphers Michael J. , Young Robert W. , Zutshi Vishnu
Published: September 2022

A novel high-granularity, dual-readout calorimetric technique (ADRIANO2) is under development as part of the research program of T1604 Collaboration. (Talk Presented at the 19th International Conference on Calorimetry in Particle Physics (CALOR 2022), University of Sussex, Sussex, UK, 16–20 May 2022). The building block of such a calorimeter consists of a pair of optically isolated, small size tiles made of scintillating plastic and lead glass. The prompt Čerenkov light from the glass can be exploited to perform high resolution timing measurements, while the high granularity provides good resolution of the spatial components of the shower. Dual-readout compensation and particle flow techniques can be applied simultaneously to the scintillation and to the Čerenkov section, providing excellent energy resolution as well as PID particle identification. These characteristics make ADRIANO2 a 6-D detector, suited for High Energy as well as High Intensity experiments. A report on the status of the ADRIANO2 project, preliminary measurements of light yield, and current and future R&D plans by T1604 Collaboration are discussed.
Effect of Anisotropic Electrical Conductivity Induced by Fiber Orientation on Ablation Characteristics of Pulsed Field Ablation in Atrial Fibrillation Treatment: A Computational Study
Authors: Zang Lianru , Gu Kaihao , Ji Xingkai , Zhang Hao , Yan Shengjie , Wu Xiaomei
Published: September 2022

Pulsed field ablation (PFA) is a promising new ablation modality for the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF); however, the effect of fiber orientation on the ablation characteristics of PFA in AF treatment is still unclear, which is likely an essential factor in influencing the ablation characteristics. This study constructed an anatomy-based left atrium (LA) model incorporating fiber orientation and selected various electrical conductivity and ablation targets to investigate the effect of anisotropic electrical conductivity (AC), compared with isotropic electrical conductivity (IC), on the ablation characteristics of PFA in AF treatment. The results show that the percentage differences in the size of the surface ablation area between AC and IC are greater than 73.71%; the maximum difference in the size of the ablation isosurface between AC and IC at different locations in the atrial wall is 3.65 mm (X-axis), 3.65 mm (Z-axis), and 4.03 mm (X-axis), respectively; and the percentage differences in the size of the ablation volume are greater than 6.9%. Under the condition of the pulse, the amplitude is 1000 V, the total PFA duration is 1 s, and the pulse train interval is 198.4 ms; the differences in the temperature increase between AC and IC in LA are less than 2.46 °C. Hence, this study suggests that in further exploration of the computational study of PFA in AF treatment using the same or similar conditions as those used here (myocardial electrical conductivity, pulse parameters, and electric field intensity damage threshold), to obtain more accurate computational results, it is necessary to adopt AC rather than IC to investigate the size of the surface ablation area, the size of the ablation isosurface, or the size of the ablation volume generated by PFA in LA. Moreover, if only investigating the temperature increase generated by PFA in LA, adopting IC instead of AC for simplifying the model construction process is reasonable.
Does Penicillin Allergy Increase the Risk of Surgical Site Infection after Orthognathic Surgery? A Multivariate Analysis
Authors: Bertin Eugénie , Meyer Christophe , Chatelain Brice , Barrabé Aude , Weber Elise , Louvrier Aurélien
Published: September 2022

This study aimed to demonstrate an association between the occurrence of surgical site infection (SSI) after orthognathic surgery and penicillin allergy and to assess whether other factors could be associated with the occurrence of SSI. A 10-year monocentric retrospective study was conducted to identify possible risk factors for SSI in orthognathic surgery. Bivariate analyses were performed using Fisher, Student, or Wilcoxon tests and multivariate analyses using logistic regression. Two hundred and sixty-six patients were included, and 3.5% had SSI. Bivariate analyses revealed a significant association between SSI and age at surgery (p = 0.01), penicillin allergy (p = 0.02), and postoperative antibiotic therapy by Clindamycin (Dalacine®) (p = 0.02). Multivariate analyses confirmed the association between the occurrence of SSI and treatment with Clindamycin (Dalacine®) or Clindamycin (Dalacine®) and Metronidazole (Flagyl®) postoperatively (p = 0.04). Antibiotic therapy with Clindamycin (Dalacine®) seems to be associated with a higher rate of SSI, and the mandible was the only site affected by SSI.
Special Issue “Diseases of the Salivary Glands-Part II”
Authors: Sisto Margherita
Published: September 2022

This Special Issue, “Diseases of Salivary Gland-Part II”, was born as a continuation of the volume “Diseases of the Salivary Gland”, published, with great success, in 2021 in the prestigious Journal of Clinical Medicine (JCM) (https://www [...]
Prevalence and Determinants of Chronic Pain Post-COVID; Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Zis Panagiotis , Ioannou Christiana , Artemiadis Artemios , Christodoulou Katerina , Kalampokini Stefania , Hadjigeorgiou Georgios
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Chronic pain is increasingly recognized as part of long COVID syndrome, mainly in the form of myalgias. However, chronic pain has several forms, and according to our clinical experience, COVID-19 survivors suffer from numerous painful syndromes, other than myalgias. The aim of our study was to estimate the prevalence of chronic pain, describe the commonest painful syndromes and identify pain determinants in a random population of COVID-19 survivors. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted at the Medical School, University of Cyprus. A random population of 90 COVID-19 survivors was recruited. Demographic and COVID-19 related clinical characteristics were recorded. The painDETECT and DN4 questionnaires were used to evaluate the painful syndromes. Results: The prevalence of chronic pain was estimated to be 63.3%. The most common site of pain was low back (37.8%), followed by joints (28.9%) and neck (12.2%). Patients with chronic pain compared to subjects without pain were older (50.5 ± 15.9 versus 42.2 ± 12.6, p = 0.011) and more likely to be female (71.9% versus 45.5%, p = 0.013). One in six subjects (16.7%) reported new-onset pain post COVID-19. The prevalence of neuropathic pain was estimated to be 24.4%. After adjusting for age and gender, headache during COVID-19 was a statistically significant predictor of neuropathic pain, increasing 4.9 times (95% 1.4–16.6, p = 0.011) the odds of neuropathic pain. Conclusion: Chronic pain—especially neuropathic—is widely prevalent in COVID-19 survivors. One in six subjects will develop new-onset pain that will persist beyond the acute phase of the disease and, therefore, should be considered a symptom of long COVID syndrome.
DS6, Deformation-Aware Semi-Supervised Learning: Application to Small Vessel Segmentation with Noisy Training Data
Authors: Chatterjee Soumick , Prabhu Kartik , Pattadkal Mahantesh , Bortsova Gerda , Sarasaen Chompunuch , Dubost Florian , Mattern Hendrik , de Bruijne Marleen , Speck Oliver , Nürnberger Andreas
Published: September 2022

Blood vessels of the brain provide the human brain with the required nutrients and oxygen. As a vulnerable part of the cerebral blood supply, pathology of small vessels can cause serious problems such as Cerebral Small Vessel Diseases (CSVD). It has also been shown that CSVD is related to neurodegeneration, such as Alzheimer’s disease. With the advancement of 7 Tesla MRI systems, higher spatial image resolution can be achieved, enabling the depiction of very small vessels in the brain. Non-Deep Learning-based approaches for vessel segmentation, e.g., Frangi’s vessel enhancement with subsequent thresholding, are capable of segmenting medium to large vessels but often fail to segment small vessels. The sensitivity of these methods to small vessels can be increased by extensive parameter tuning or by manual corrections, albeit making them time-consuming, laborious, and not feasible for larger datasets. This paper proposes a deep learning architecture to automatically segment small vessels in 7 Tesla 3D Time-of-Flight (ToF) Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) data. The algorithm was trained and evaluated on a small imperfect semi-automatically segmented dataset of only 11 subjects; using six for training, two for validation, and three for testing. The deep learning model based on U-Net Multi-Scale Supervision was trained using the training subset and was made equivariant to elastic deformations in a self-supervised manner using deformation-aware learning to improve the generalisation performance. The proposed technique was evaluated quantitatively and qualitatively against the test set and achieved a Dice score of 80.44 ± 0.83. Furthermore, the result of the proposed method was compared against a selected manually segmented region (62.07 resultant Dice) and has shown a considerable improvement (18.98%) with deformation-aware learning.
The Creativity Diamond—A Framework to Aid Creativity
Authors: Childs Peter , Han Ji , Chen Liuqing , Jiang Pingfei , Wang Pan , Park Dongmyung , Yin Yuan , Dieckmann Elena , Vilanova Ignacio
Published: September 2022

There are many facets to creativity, and the topic has a profound impact on society. Substantial and sustained study on creativity has been undertaken, and much is now known about the fundamentals and how creativity can be augmented. To draw these elements together, a framework was developed called the creativity diamond, formulated on the basis of reviews of prior work, as well as the consideration of 20 PhD studies on the topics of creativity, design, innovation, and product development. The framework embodies the principles that quantity of ideas breeds quality through selection, and that a range of creativity tools can provoke additional ideas to augment our innate creativity. The creativity diamond proposed is a tool consisting of a divergent phase associated with the development of many distinctive ideas and a convergent phase associated with the refinement of ideas. The creativity diamond framework can be used to prompt and help select which tool or approach to use in a creative environment for innovative tasks. The framework has now been used by many students and professionals in diverse contexts.
Multi-Messenger Radio Frequency and Optical Diagnostics of Pulsed Laser Ablation Processes
Authors: Samimi Mahdieh , Hosseinlaghab Hassan , McCarthy Éanna , McNally Patrick J.
Published: September 2022

In this report, a novel non-contact, non-invasive methodology for near and quasi real-time measurement of the structuring of metal surfaces using pulsed laser ablation is described. This methodology is based on the use of a multi-messenger data approach using data from Optical Emission Spectroscopy (OES) and Radio Emission Spectroscopy (RES) in parallel. In this research, radio frequency (RF) emission (in the range of 100–400 MHz) and optical emission (200–900 nm) were investigated and acquired in real-time. The RES and OES data were post-processed and visualized using heat maps, and, because of the large data sets acquired particularly using in RES, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) statistics were used for data analysis. A comparison between in-process RES-OES data and post-process 3D images of the different ablated holes generated by a picosecond laser with different powers (1.39 W, 1.018 W, and 0.625 W) on aluminum (Al) and copper (Cu) was performed. The real-time time-series data acquired using the Radio and Optical Emission Spectroscopy technique correlate well with post-process 3D microscopic images. The capability of RES-OES as an in operando near real-time diagnostic for the analysis of changes of ablation quality (cleanliness and symmetry), and morphology and aspect ratios (including the diameter of ablated holes) in the process was confirmed by PCA analysis and heat map visualization. This technique holds great promise for in-process quality detection in metal micromachining and laser-metal base manufacturing.
Modeling and Analysis of Sea-Surface Vehicle System for Underwater Mapping Using Single-Beam Echosounder
Authors: Kartal Seda Karadeniz , Hacıoğlu Rıfat , Görmüş K. Sedar , Kutoğlu Ş. Hakan , Leblebicioğlu M. Kemal
Published: September 2022

Detailed knowledge on the shape of the seafloor is crucial for many researchers. Bathymetric data are critical for navigational safety and are used for underwater mapping. This study develops a sea-surface vehicle (SSV) system for underwater mapping by using both bathymetric data from a low-cost single-beam echosounder located on the SSV, and the navigation data of the SSV. The navigation of the SSV was obtained using a global positioning system (GPS). The effect of changing bathymetric and navigation data due to external disturbances such as wind and waves on the map was analyzed. The sea-bottom slope angles, which are effective in changing bathymetric data, were estimated and corrected in relation to the estimated angles in a particular mapped area for more accurate underwater mapping. Additionally, the effects of the grid range of the mapped area, beam angle of the echosounder, and position of the echosounder on the underwater mapping were analyzed. These analyses were based on simulation data, and were performed in a MATLAB, HYPACK, and Global Mapper environment. An underwater map was also obtained in the Kozlu/Zonguldak area, Black Sea by using a single-beam echosounder located on the SSV. This map was improved by estimating sea-bottom slope angles and the corrected bathymetric data to obtain a more accurate underwater map of the area. The experimental and simulation results were compared, focusing on the sea-bottom slope changes, sea-surface disturbances, bathymetry grid range changes, and draft effects.
Classification of Nuclear Reactor Operations Using Spatial Importance and Multisensor Networks
Authors: Tibbetts Jake , Goldblum Bethany , Stewart Christopher , Hashemizadeh Arman
Published: September 2022

Distributed multisensor networks record multiple data streams that can be used as inputs to machine learning models designed to classify operations relevant to proliferation at nuclear reactors. The goal of this work is to demonstrate methods to assess the importance of each node (a single multisensor) and region (a group of proximate multisensors) to machine learning model performance in a reactor monitoring scenario. This, in turn, provides insight into model behavior, a critical requirement of data-driven applications in nuclear security. Using data collected at the High Flux Isotope Reactor at Oak Ridge National Laboratory via a network of Merlyn multisensors, two different models were trained to classify the reactor’s operational state: a hidden Markov model (HMM), which is simpler and more transparent, and a feed-forward neural network, which is less inherently interpretable. Traditional wrapper methods for feature importance were extended to identify nodes and regions in the multisensor network with strong positive and negative impacts on the classification problem. These spatial-importance algorithms were evaluated on the two different classifiers. The classification accuracy was then improved relative to baseline models via feature selection from 0.583 to 0.839 and from 0.811 ± 0.005 to 0.884 ± 0.004 for the HMM and feed-forward neural network, respectively. While some differences in node and region importance were observed when using different classifiers and wrapper methods, the nodes near the facility’s cooling tower were consistently identified as important—a conclusion further supported by studies on feature importance in decision trees. Node and region importance methods are model-agnostic, inform feature selection for improved model performance, and can provide insight into opaque classification models in the nuclear security domain.
Role of Nanomaterials in COVID-19 Prevention, Diagnostics, Therapeutics, and Vaccine Development
Authors: Patel Unnati , Rathnayake Kavini , Hunt Emily C. , Singh Nirupama
Published: September 2022

Facing the deadly pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus all over the globe, it is crucial to devote efforts to fighting and preventing this infectious virus. Nanomaterials have gained much attention after the approval of lipid nanoparticle-based COVID-19 vaccines by the United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA). In light of increasing demands for utilizing nanomaterials in the management of COVID-19, this comprehensive review focuses on the role of nanomaterials in the prevention, diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccine development of COVID-19. First, we highlight the variety of nanomaterials usage in the prevention of COVID-19. We discuss the advantages of nanomaterials as well as their uses in the production of diagnostic tools and treatment methods. Finally, we review the role of nanomaterials in COVID-19 vaccine development. This review offers direction for creating products based on nanomaterials to combat COVID-19.
Efficacy of a Coriolusversicolor-Based Vaginal Gel in Human Papillomavirus-Positive Women Older Than 40 Years: A Sub-Analysis of PALOMA Study
Authors: Gil-Antuñano Santiago Palacios , Serrano Cogollor Luis , López Díaz Andrés C. , González Rodríguez Silvia P. , Dexeus Carter Damián , Centeno Mediavilla Cristina , Coronado Martín Pluvio , de la Fuente Valero Jesús , López Fernández José A. , Vanrell Barbat Cristina , Cortés Bordoy Javier
Published: September 2022

In the PALOMA trial, Papilocare® demonstrated efficacy in repairing low-grade cervical lesions related to human papillomavirus (HPV). This sub-analysis aimed to evaluate its efficacy in repairing these cervical lesions and clearing HPV in women aged older than 40 years. This was a multicenter, randomized, open-label, parallel-group, controlled clinical trial. Patients with low-degree HPV-dependent cervical lesions receiving 6-month treatment with the vaginal gel were compared to those with a watchful waiting approach. Among the 41 women analyzed (aged 47.7 years), 31 presented high-risk (HR) oncogenic HPV subtypes, and 14 had 16-18-31 HPV genotypes. After 6 months, normalized cytology and concordant colposcopy were achieved by a greater percentage of treated women. The difference was significant in the total population (92.3% vs. 50.0%, p = 0.007), and HR-HPV subpopulation (90.5% vs. 33.3%, p = 0.003). In the HR HPVs-16-18-31 subpopulation, the values were 75.0% and 40.0% (p = 0.293). In the total population, 61.5% of treated patients obtained HPV clearance, compared to 50.0% in the control group. Regarding the HR-HPV subpopulation, these values were 66.7% and 44.4%, respectively. Papilocare® demonstrated significant efficacy in repairing low-degree HPV-related cervical lesions and a positive trend to clear HPV in women older than 40 years old in comparison to the watchful waiting approach.