bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis and Optimization of Dynamic and Static Characteristics of Machining Center Direct-Drive Turntable
Authors: Huang Bo , Wang Jian , Tan Bangyu , Zhao Jianguo , Liu Kang , Wang Junxiong
Published: September 2022

There are few studies on optimizing the dynamic and static characteristics of direct-drive turntables. In terms of dynamic and static characteristic analysis, most studies only analyze the dynamic and static characteristics of direct-drive turntables in a single machining position and working condition. The optimization is mainly for individual parts without considering the overall structure of the turntable. A multi-objective optimization method based on the back-propagation neural network (BP) and the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm is proposed to ensure the machining accuracy of the direct-drive turntable, reduce the total mass, and improve its dynamic and static characteristics. In this paper, the workpiece and direct-drive turntable are studied as a whole. Static and modal analyses determine the maximum deformation locations and vulnerable parts of the turntable. Topology optimization analysis was used to find the redundant mass parts. We determined the optimization objectives and dimensional parameters based on the direct-drive turntable’s structural and topology optimization results. Using a central composite experimental design, we obtained test points and fitted them to a response surface model using a BP neural network. A multi-objective genetic algorithm then obtained the optimal solution. After multi-objective optimization, we reduced the mass of the direct-drive turntable by 9.02% and 21.394% compared with the topologically optimized and original models, respectively. The dynamic and static characteristics of the direct-drive turntable increased, and a lightweight design was achieved.
In Vitro Antibacterial Activity of Some Plant Essential Oils against Four Different Microbial Strains
Authors: Gheorghita Daniela , Robu Alina , Antoniac Aurora , Antoniac Iulian , Ditu Lia Mara , Raiciu Anca-Daniela , Tomescu Justinian , Grosu Elena , Saceleanu Adriana
Published: September 2022

This study evaluates the antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of five essential oils (EO): pine oil, thyme oil, sage oil, fennel oil, and eucalyptus essential oils. To identify the chemical composition of the essential oils, we used gas chromatography coupled to a mass spectrometer (GC-MS). EO are predominantly characterized by the presence of monoterpene hydrocarbons and oxygenated monoterpenes, except in the case of fennel essential oil which contains phenylpropanoids as its main components. The antimicrobial activity of the EO was highlighted on four standard microbial strains (two Gram-negative strains-Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853; one Gram-positive strain Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, and one yeast strain-Candida albicans ATCC 10231). Antimicrobial activity was assessed by measuring the diameter of the inhibition zone, and by determining the values of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum concentration of biofilm eradication (MCBE). Analyzing the diameter values of the inhibition zones we observed increased efficiency of thyme essential oil, which showed the highest values for all tested microbial species. The results of tests performed in a liquid confirm the high sensitivity of the standard strain Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 to the action of all essential oils, the lowest values of MIC being recorded for sage and thyme essential oils. For the most essential oils tested in this study, the MCBE values are close to the MIC values, except for the pine EO which seems to have stimulated the adhesion of the yeast strain at concentrations lower than 5%. The study highlights the antimicrobial activity of the tested essential oils on Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains.
sEMG Analysis of Upper Limb Muscles during Backhand Smash Using Badminton Rackets of Different Stiffness
Authors: Amaro Catarina M. , Nolasco Sérgio , Roseiro Luis , Amaro Ana M. , Castro Maria António
Published: September 2022

The analysis of racket stiffness effect on muscle activity during movement associated with badminton is essential for a better understanding of which badminton racket is better for the athletes to use. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of racket stiffness on muscle activity and activation time of the upper limb muscles—biceps (Bicp), lateral head (TLat) and long head (TLong) of the triceps—when performing the backhand smash (BH) movement using two rackets with different levels of stiffness. A group of 6 volunteers, with an average age of 21.8 (±4.5) years, and an average badminton practice time of 10.7 (±5.3) years, performed 10 valid repetitions of the movement with each racket, and the muscle activity was collected using surface electromyography. Observing the results shows that the most excited muscle in the BH smash, in terms of (%MVC), is the TLat, regardless of the stiffness of the racket, which shows 56.9% for the Duora 33 and about 68.9% for the Duora 88, comparing with the Bicp and the TLong, respectively. Also, it was observed that the more rigid racket (Duora 88) showed a higher muscular activity for the Bicp and TLat muscles.
Analysis of Influencing Characteristics of Biochars for Ammonium Adsorption
Authors: Shenk Aubrey , Ivan Jean-Paul A. , Schwede Sebastian , Odlare Monica
Published: September 2022

This article summarizes and performs a systematic analysis using experimental results from recent research on ammonium recovery from aqueous sources using biochar. Numerous studies have focused on using different materials to produce biochar adsorbents, and many have attempted to draw conclusions about the physical or chemical characteristics that dominate the adsorption to infer the mechanism. However, to date, there has not been statistical analysis performed on a large set of adsorption data and physical/chemical characteristics of chars to be able to draw conclusions about ammonium adsorption mechanisms. From this analysis, it was found that consistency in experimental methods and characteristic measurement reporting is lacking, and therefore it is difficult to perform metadata analysis and draw conclusions about ammonium adsorption on biochar. Among the important factors influencing ammonia recovery proposed in literature, the meta-analysis only strongly supports the effect of BET surface area and NH4+ concentration, with weaker support for the importance of cation exchange capacity and pyrolysis temperature. This suggests that standard procedures for biochar production, experiments and analysis of physical and chemical characteristics are needed to usefully compare results across different studies. Examples of the present difficulty in identifying trends across studies are shown by comparing clusters in the data identified by the analysis. The ability to make such comparisons would provide clearer direction in how best to further improve the adsorption capacity of biochars.
Calligraphy Character Detection Based on Deep Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Peng Xianlin , Kang Jian , Wu Yinjie , Feng Xiaoyi
Published: September 2022

Calligraphy (the special art of drawing characters with a brush specially made by the Chinese) is an integral part of Chinese culture, and detecting Chinese calligraphy characters is highly significant. At present, there are still some challenges in the detection of ancient calligraphy. In this paper, we are interested in the calligraphy character detection problem focusing on the calligraphy character boundary. We chose High-Resolution Net (HRNet) as the calligraphy character feature extraction backbone network to learn reliable high-resolution representations. Then, we used the scale prediction branch and the spatial information prediction branch to detect the calligraphy character region and categorize the calligraphy character and its boundaries. We used the channel attention mechanism and the feature fusion method to improve the detection effectiveness in this process. Finally, we pre-trained with a self-generated calligraphy database and fine-tuned with a real calligraphy database. We set up two groups of ablation studies for comparison, and the comparison results proved the superiority of our method. This paper found that the classification of characters and character boundaries has a certain auxiliary effect on single character detection.
Effect of CNC Interpolator Parameter Settings on Toolpath Precision and Quality in Corner Neighborhoods
Authors: Petráček Petr , Fojtů Petr , Kozlok Tomáš , Sulitka Matěj
Published: September 2022

Surface quality, machining time, and precision of the final workpiece are key criteria of optimization in CNC machining. These criteria are influenced by multiple factors, such as path interpolation, feed drive system settings, machine dynamics, and the manufacturing process. The properties of the output of the interpolator indirectly influence all subsequent phases of the machining process, thus influencing the quality of the end product. This paper focuses on the effects of interpolator settings on toolpath quality and precision in corner neighborhoods for the commercial Heidenhain iTNC interpolator. A novel method of toolpath quality evaluation suitable for interpolator output toolpaths is proposed, and the effect of multiple CNC parameters on toolpath quality and precision in corner neighborhoods is quantified based on results obtained on a testing toolpath and verified on a toolpath composed of linear segments only. Both toolpath quality and precision were found to depend primarily on the parameters of limit frequency, contour tolerance, and corner jerk settings with precision additionally depending on angle size. The results show that both toolpath quality and precision in corner neighborhoods can be successfully controlled by the corner jerk limit parameter settings. The presented methodology provides a practical guide for CNC parameter settings in Heidenhain interpolators aimed at predicting toolpath quality and precision in corner neighborhoods.
Visions of Disrupted Chronologies: Sergei Eisenstein and Hedwig Fechheimer’s Cubist Egypt
Authors: Darnbrough Leanne Rae
Published: September 2022

By juxtaposing two ostensibly divergent characters, the Jewish art historian and Egyptologist Hedwig Fechheimer (1871–1942) and Soviet filmmaker and theorist Sergei Eisenstein (1898–1948), this paper investigates how both approaches folded time, creating Cubist chronologies. Fechheimer adapted the philological focus of her Berlin School contemporaries to create an ahistorical, anti-teleological grammar of ancient Egyptian art which espoused an artistic affinity between the Egyptians and the Cubist movement. Eisenstein, who held a copy of one of Fechheimer’s books in his personal library, took a similar approach in the development of his critiques of historical allegory. This paper looks specifically at two shots of a sphinx during the bridge sequence in the 1927 film October to demonstrate how they correspond to Fechheimer’s views on Egyptian art and also function peculiarly within the film. Ultimately, I aim to demonstrate how the interpellations of the sphinx demonstrate a particular critique of historicity that Eisenstein later expands upon in his Ivan the Terrible films.
Goodness-of-Fit Tests for Weighted Generalized Quasi-Lindley Distribution Using SRS and RSS with Applications to Real Data
Authors: Benchiha SidAhmed , Al-Omari Amer Ibrahim , Alomani Ghadah
Published: September 2022

This paper deals with the problem of goodness-of-fit tests (GFTs) for the weighted generalized quasi-Lindley distribution (WGQLD) using ranked set sampling (RSS) and simple random sampling (SRS) techniques. The tests are based on the empirical distribution function and sample entropy. These tests include the Kullback–Leibler, Kolomogorov–Smirnov, Anderson–Darling, Cramér–von Mises, Zhang, Liao, and Shimokawa, and Watson tests. The critical values (CV) and power of each test are obtained based on a simulation study by using SRS and RSS methods considering various sample sizes and alternatives. A rain data set is used to investigate the effectiveness of the suggested GFTs. Based on the same number of measured units for the various alternatives taken into consideration in this study, it is discovered that the RSS tests are more effective than those of their rivals in SRS. Additionally, as the set size increases, the GFTs’ power increases.
Redox Evolution of Li-Rich Layered Cathode Materials
Authors: Fang Liang , Chen Mingzhe , Nam Kyung-Wan , Kang Yong-Mook
Published: September 2022

Li-rich layered oxides utilizing reversible oxygen redox are promising cathodes for high-energy-density lithium-ion batteries. However, they exhibit different electrochemical profiles before and after oxygen redox activation. Therefore, advanced characterization techniques have been developed to explore the fundamental understanding underlying their unusual phenomenon, such as the redox evolution of these materials. In this review, we present the general redox evolution of Li-rich layered cathodes upon activation of reversible oxygen redox. Various synchrotron X-ray spectroscopy methods which can identify charge compensation by cations and anions are summarized. The case-by-case redox evolution processes of Li-rich 3d/4d/5d transition metal O3 type layered cathodes are discussed. We highlight that not only the type of transition metals but also the composition of transition metals strongly affects redox behavior. We propose further studies on the fundamental understanding of cationic and anionic redox mixing and the effect of transition metals on redox behavior to excite the full energy potential of Li-rich layered cathodes.
Development of an Adequate Formation Protocol for a Non-Aqueous Potassium-Ion Hybrid Supercapacitor (KIC) through the Study of the Cell Swelling Phenomenon
Authors: Yvenat Marie-Eve , Chavillon Benoit , Mayousse Eric , Perdu Fabien , Azaïs Philippe
Published: September 2022

Hybrid supercapacitors have been developed in the pursuit of increasing the energy density of conventional supercapacitors without affecting the power density or the lifespan. Potassium-ion hybrid supercapacitors (KIC) consist of an activated carbon capacitor-type positive electrode and a graphitic battery-type negative one working in an electrolyte based on potassium salt. Overcoming the inherent potassium problems (irreversible capacity, extensive volume expansion, dendrites formation), the non-reproducibility of the results was a major obstacle to the development of this KIC technology. To remedy this, the development of an adequate formation protocol was necessary. However, this revealed a cell-swelling phenomenon, a well-known issue whether for supercapacitors or Li-ion batteries. This phenomenon in the case of the KIC technology has been investigated through constant voltage (CV) tests and volume measurements. The responsible phenomena seem to be the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) formation at the negative electrode during the first use of the system and the perpetual decomposition of the electrolyte solvent at high voltage. Thanks to these results, a proper formation protocol for KICs, which offers good energy density (14 Wh·kgelectrochemical core−1) with an excellent stability at fast charging rate, was developed.
Enable High-Energy LiNi0.5Co0.2Mn0.3O2 by Ultra-Thin Coating through Wet Impregnation
Authors: Su Xin , Wang Xiaoping , Bareno Javier , Qin Yan , Aguesse Frederic , Lu Wenquan
Published: September 2022

A high cut-off voltage is required for nickel-rich layered oxide LiNixCoyMnzO2 (NCM) to meet the high energy density requirement of lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles. However, such a high voltage application leads to an unstable interface between NCM and liquid electrolytes. To stabilize the interface, the facile wet impregnation method has been developed to apply an ultra-thin Al2O3 coating layer on the NCM particles. This coating layer was found to have a strong interaction with the NCM and resulted in Al-doped NCM at the surface structure of NCM. The change of surface structure can not only reduce the surface resistance of lithium diffusion of LiNi0.5Co0.2Mn0.3O2 (NCM523), but also stabilize the solid electrolyte interface between NCM523 and the electrolyte with the cut-off voltage of 4.5 V vs. Li/Li+. Compared to other coating methods, wet impregnation coating can provide an ultra-thin and uniform coating with surface doping on NCM particles. Furthermore, this scalable coating method can be applied to various electrode materials without adding much additional cost.
Multicolor Histochemical Staining for Identification of Mineralized and Non-Mineralized Musculoskeletal Tissue: Immunohistochemical and Radiological Validation in Decalcified Bone Samples
Authors: Sun Yu , Helmholz Heike , Willumeit-Römer Regine
Published: September 2022

Histochemical staining of paraffin-embedded decalcified bone samples is commonly used in preclinical research of musculoskeletal diseases, enabling the visualization of multiple tissue components by the application of chromogens. The purpose of this study was to introduce a novel multicolor staining protocol involving optimized chemical reagents and procedure, allowing the identification of high-mineralized bone, low-mineralized fracture callus, cartilage and skeletal muscle fibers simultaneously. Fractured femur and healthy tail vertebra samples from adult male Sprague–Dawley rats were decalcified with EDTA and formic acid, respectively, followed by paraffin embedding, tissue sectioning and multicolor staining. Conventional Movat’s pentachrome and safranin O / fast green staining were conducted in parallel for comparison. Immunohistochemical staining of collagen type-X and micro-CT analysis were included to further validate the efficacy of the staining method. The multicolor staining allowed visualization of major musculoskeletal tissue components in both types of decalcified samples, providing quality outcomes with fewer chemical reagents and simplified procedures. Immunohistochemical staining demonstrated its capacity for identification of the endochondral ossification process during fracture healing. Micro-CT imaging validated the staining outcome for high-mineralized skeletal tissue. The application of the multicolor staining may facilitate future preclinical research involving decalcified paraffin-embedded samples.
Exploring the Anti-Hypertensive Potential of Lemongrass—A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Silva Henrique , Bárbara Rita
Published: September 2022

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus (DC) Stapf) is a herb commonly used in folk medicine for many purposes. However, its anti-hypertensive potential has not yet been thoroughly studied. This paper reviews the anti-hypertensive effects of both lemongrass and its main compound citral in in vitro, ex vivo, preclinical and clinical studies. Lemongrass essential oil contains terpenes and their derivatives, whereas extracts contain different classes of polyphenols. Both citral and lemongrass display vasorelaxant activity ex vivo, acting by the promotion of endothelial nitric oxide/prostanoids secretion together with the blockage of calcium channels in the vascular smooth muscle. Citral also displays a negative chronotrope effect, probably due to a centrally mediated enhancement of parasympathetic activity. In both healthy and hypertensive animals, the acute administration of lemongrass results in a decrease in blood pressure, sometimes accompanied by a compensatory increase in heart rate. Similarly, in healthy and hypertensive human subjects, the consumption of lemongrass tea decreases blood pressure. Additionally, a weak/moderate diuretic activity has also been reported in animals and humans, although the mechanisms of action remain elusive. Future preclinical studies are necessary to identify other compounds with anti-hypertensive activity and additional pharmacological pathways. Although well tolerated, the safety profile of lemongrass should be better characterized.
The Stability and Anti-Angiogenic Properties of Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) Using Caco-2 Cells
Authors: David Oladipupo Moyinoluwa , Lategan Kim Leigh , de Cortalezzi Maria Fidalgo , Pool Edmund John
Published: September 2022

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) are found in a wide range of products such as sunscreen, paints, toothpaste and cosmetics due to their white pigment and high refractive index. These wide-ranging applications could result in direct or indirect exposure of these NPs to humans and the environment. Accordingly, conflicting levels of toxicity has been associated with these NPs. Therefore, the risk associated with these reports and for TiO2NPs produced using varying methodologies should be measured. This study aimed to investigate the effects of various media on TiO2NP properties (hydrodynamic size and zeta potential) and the effects of TiO2NP exposure on human colorectal adenocarcinoma (Caco-2) epithelial cell viability, inflammatory and cell stress biomarkers and angiogenesis proteome profiles. The NPs increased in size over time in the various media, while zeta potentials were stable. TiO2NPs also induced cell stress biomarkers, which could be attributed to the NPs not being cytotoxic. Consequently, TiO2NP exposure had no effects on the level of inflammatory biomarkers produced by Caco-2. TiO2NPs expressed some anti-angiogenic properties when exposed to the no-observed-adverse-effect level and requires further in-depth investigation.
Obtaining a Reliable Diagnostic Biomarker for Diabetes Mellitus by Standardizing Salivary Glucose Measurements
Authors: Cui Yangyang , Zhang Hankun , Wang Song , Lu Junzhe , He Jinmei , Liu Lanlan , Liu Weiqiang
Published: September 2022

Salivary glucose is frequently utilized in diabetes mellitus (DM), and it might be proposed as a potential biomarker candidate for DM, as it is non-invasive and cost-effective and achieves adequate diagnostic performance for DM patients. However, salivary glucose levels may change under specific conditions. It is consequently essential to maintain a consistent strategy for measuring saliva, taking into account the possibility of external factors influencing salivary glucose levels. In this study, we analyzed salivary glucose levels under different handling conditions and donor-dependent factors, including age, interdiurnal variations, and collection and processing methods. A structured questionnaire was used to determine the symptoms and predisposing factors of DM. The glucose oxidase peroxidase method was used to estimate glucose levels in the blood and saliva of people in a fasting state. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of such conditions on salivary glucose levels. We found that these extraneous variables should be taken into account in the future when salivary glucose is used as a predictive biomarker for DM.
Emerging Role of Non-Coding RNAs in Aortic Dissection
Authors: Ding Wei , Liu Ying , Su Zhe , Li Qi , Wang Jianxun , Gao Yufang
Published: September 2022

Aortic dissection (AD) is a fatal cardiovascular acute disease with high incidence and mortality, and it seriously threatens patients’ lives and health. The pathogenesis of AD mainly includes vascular inflammation, extracellular matrix degradation, and phenotypic conversion as well as apoptosis of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs); however, its detailed mechanisms are still not fully elucidated. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), are an emerging class of RNA molecules without protein-coding ability, and they play crucial roles in the progression of many diseases, including AD. A growing number of studies have shown that the dysregulation of ncRNAs contributes to the occurrence and development of AD by modulating the expression of specific target genes or the activity of related proteins. In addition, some ncRNAs exhibit great potential as promising biomarkers and therapeutic targets in AD treatment. In this review, we systematically summarize the recent findings on the underlying mechanism of ncRNA involved in AD regulation and highlight their clinical application as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in AD treatment. The information reviewed here will be of great benefit to the development of ncRNA-based therapeutic strategies for AD patients.
Implication of Nanoparticles to Combat Chronic Liver and Kidney Diseases: Progress and Perspectives
Authors: Hashim Mariam , Mujahid Huma , Hassan Samina , Bukhari Shanila , Anjum Iram , Hano Christophe , Abbasi Bilal Haider , Anjum Sumaira
Published: September 2022

Liver and kidney diseases are the most frequently encountered problems around the globe. Damage to the liver and kidney may occur as a result of exposure to various drugs, chemicals, toxins, and pathogens, leading to severe disease conditions such as cirrhosis, fibrosis, hepatitis, acute kidney injury, and liver and renal failure. In this regard, the use of nanoparticles (NPs) such as silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), and zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) has emerged as a rapidly developing field of study in terms of safe delivery of various medications to target organs with minimal side effects. Due to their physical characteristics, NPs have inherent pharmacological effects, and an accidental buildup can have a significant impact on the structure and function of the liver and kidney. By suppressing the expression of the proinflammatory cytokines iNOS and COX-2, NPs are known to possess anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, NPs have demonstrated their ability to operate as an antioxidant, squelching the generation of ROS caused by substances that cause oxidative stress. Finally, because of their pro-oxidant properties, they are also known to increase the level of ROS, which causes malignant liver and kidney cells to undergo apoptosis. As a result, NPs can be regarded as a double-edged sword whose inherent therapeutic benefits can be refined as we work to comprehend them in terms of their toxicity.
Potassium Channels as Therapeutic Targets in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Redel-Traub Gabriel , Sampson Kevin J. , Kass Robert S. , Bohnen Michael S.
Published: September 2022

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a devastating disease with high morbidity and mortality. Deleterious remodeling in the pulmonary arterial system leads to irreversible arterial constriction and elevated pulmonary arterial pressures, right heart failure, and eventually death. The difficulty in treating PAH stems in part from the complex nature of disease pathogenesis, with several signaling compounds known to be involved (e.g., endothelin-1, prostacyclins) which are indeed targets of PAH therapy. Over the last decade, potassium channelopathies were established as novel causes of PAH. More specifically, loss-of-function mutations in the KCNK3 gene that encodes the two-pore-domain potassium channel KCNK3 (or TASK-1) and loss-of-function mutations in the ABCC8 gene that encodes a key subunit, SUR1, of the ATP-sensitive potassium channel (KATP) were established as the first two potassium channelopathies in human cohorts with pulmonary arterial hypertension. Moreover, voltage-gated potassium channels (Kv) represent a third family of potassium channels with genetic changes observed in association with PAH. While other ion channel genes have since been reported in association with PAH, this review focuses on KCNK3, KATP, and Kv potassium channels as promising therapeutic targets in PAH, with recent experimental pharmacologic discoveries significantly advancing the field.
Ractopamine at the Center of Decades-Long Scientific and Legal Disputes: A Lesson on Benefits, Safety Issues, and Conflicts
Authors: Abbas Kumail , Raza Aqeel , Vasquez Ross D. , Roldan Marri Jmelou M. , Malhotra Nemi , Huang Jong-Chin , Buenafe Olivia E. M. , Chen Kelvin H. -C. , Liang Shih-Shin , Hsiao Chung-Der
Published: September 2022

Ractopamine (RAC) is a synthetic phenethanolamine, β–adrenergic agonist used as a feed additive to develop leanness and increase feed conversion efficiency in different farm animals. While RAC has been authorized as a feed additive for pigs and cattle in a limited number of countries, a great majority of jurisdictions, including the European Union (EU), China, Russia, and Taiwan, have banned its use on safety grounds. RAC has been under long scientific and political discussion as a controversial antibiotic as a feed additive. Here, we will present significant information on RAC regarding its application, detection methods, conflicts, and legal divisions that play a major role in controversial deadlock and why this issue warrants the attention of scientists, agriculturists, environmentalists, and health advocates. In this review, we highlight the potential toxicities of RAC on aquatic animals to emphasize scientific evidence and reports on the potentially harmful effects of RAC on the aquatic environment and human health.
GPCRs in Intracellular Compartments: New Targets for Drug Discovery
Authors: Fasciani Irene , Carli Marco , Petragnano Francesco , Colaianni Francesco , Aloisi Gabriella , Maggio Roberto , Scarselli Marco , Rossi Mario
Published: September 2022

The architecture of eukaryotic cells is defined by extensive membrane-delimited compartments, which entails separate metabolic processes that would otherwise interfere with each other, leading to functional differences between cells. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the largest class of cell surface receptors, and their signal transduction is traditionally viewed as a chain of events initiated from the plasma membrane. Furthermore, their intracellular trafficking, internalization, and recycling were considered only to regulate receptor desensitization and cell surface expression. On the contrary, accumulating data strongly suggest that GPCRs also signal from intracellular compartments. GPCRs localize in the membranes of endosomes, nucleus, Golgi and endoplasmic reticulum apparatuses, mitochondria, and cell division compartments. Importantly, from these sites they have shown to orchestrate multiple signals that regulate different cell pathways. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of this fascinating phenomenon, explaining how GPCRs reach the intracellular sites, are stimulated by the endogenous ligands, and their potential physiological/pathophysiological roles. Finally, we illustrate several mechanisms involved in the modulation of the compartmentalized GPCR signaling by drugs and endogenous ligands. Understanding how GPCR signaling compartmentalization is regulated will provide a unique opportunity to develop novel pharmaceutical approaches to target GPCRs and potentially lead the way towards new therapeutic approaches.
All Roads Lead to Cathepsins: The Role of Cathepsins in Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis-Induced Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: van Mourik Hester , Li Mengying , Baumgartner Sabine , Theys Jan , Shiri-Sverdlov Ronit
Published: September 2022

Cathepsins are lysosomal proteases that are essential to maintain cellular physiological homeostasis and are involved in multiple processes, such as immune and energy regulation. Predominantly, cathepsins reside in the lysosomal compartment; however, they can also be secreted by cells and enter the extracellular space. Extracellular cathepsins have been linked to several pathologies, including non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). NASH is an increasingly important risk factor for the development of HCC, which is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths and poses a great medical and economic burden. While information regarding the involvement of cathepsins in NASH-induced HCC (NASH-HCC) is limited, data to support the role of cathepsins in either NASH or HCC is accumulating. Since cathepsins play a role in both NASH and HCC, it is likely that the role of cathepsins is more significant in NASH-HCC compared to HCC derived from other etiologies. In the current review, we provide an overview on the available data regarding cathepsins in NASH and HCC, argue that cathepsins play a key role in the transition from NASH to HCC, and shed light on therapeutic options in this context.
Amniotic Fluid-Derived Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cell-Derived Secretome and Exosomes Improve Inflammation in Human Intestinal Subepithelial Myofibroblasts
Authors: Katifelis Hector , Filidou Eirini , Psaraki Adriana , Yakoub Farinta , Roubelakis Maria G. , Tarapatzi Gesthimani , Vradelis Stergios , Bamias Giorgos , Kolios George , Gazouli Maria
Published: September 2022

Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBDs) are characterized by chronic relapsing inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. The mesenchymal stem/stromal cell-derived secretome and secreted extracellular vesicles may offer novel therapeutic opportunities in patients with IBD. Thus, exosomes may be utilized as a novel cell-free approach for IBD therapy. The aim of our study was to examine the possible anti-inflammatory effects of secretome/exosomes on an IBD-relevant, in vitro model of LPS-induced inflammation in human intestinal SubEpithelial MyoFibroblasts (SEMFs). The tested CM (Conditioned Media)/exosomes derived from a specific population of second-trimester amniotic fluid mesenchymal stem/stromal cells, the spindle-shaped amniotic fluid MSCs (SS-AF-MSCs), and specifically, their secreted exosomes could be utilized as a novel cell-free approach for IBD therapy. Therefore, we studied the effect of SS-AF-MSCs CM and exosomes on LPS-induced inflammation in SEMF cells. SS-AF-MSCs CM and exosomes were collected, concentrated, and then delivered into the cell cultures. Administration of both secretome and exosomes derived from SS-AF-MSCs reduced the severity of LPS-induced inflammation. Specifically, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and TLR-4 mRNA expression was decreased, while the anti-inflammatory IL-10 was elevated. Our results were also verified at the protein level, as secretion of IL-1β was significantly reduced. Overall, our results highlight a cell-free and anti-inflammatory therapeutic agent for potential use in IBD therapy.
Detection of Alpha-Fetoprotein Using Aptamer-Based Sensors
Authors: Liu Lei , Wang Huixing , Xie Bing , Zhang Bianjiang , Lin Yuanwei , Gao Li
Published: September 2022

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is widely-known as the most commonly used protein biomarker for liver cancer diagnosis at the early stage. Therefore, developing the highly sensitive and reliable method of AFP detection is of essential demand for practical applications. Herein, two types of aptamer-based AFP detection methods, i.e., optical and electrochemical biosensors, are reviewed in detail. The optical biosensors include Raman spectroscopy, dual-polarization interferometry, resonance light-scattering, fluorescence, and chemiluminescence. The electrochemical biosensors include cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and giant magnetic impedance. Looking into the future, methods for AFP detection that are high sensitivity, long-term stability, low cost, and operation convenience will continue to be developed.
Law Enforcement Officers’ Ability to Recognize Emotions: The Role of Personality Traits and Basic Needs’ Satisfaction
Authors: Dirzyte Aiste , Antanaitis Faustas , Patapas Aleksandras
Published: September 2022

Background: This study intended to explore the role of personality traits and basic psychological needs in law enforcement officers’ ability to recognize emotions: anger, joy, sadness, fear, surprise, disgust, and neutral. It was significant to analyze law enforcement officers’ emotion recognition and the contributing factors, as this field has been under-researched despite increased excessive force use by officers in many countries. Methods: This study applied the Big Five–2 (BFI-2), the Basic Psychological Needs Satisfaction and Frustration Scale (BPNSFS), and the Karolinska Directed Emotional Faces set of stimuli (KDEF). The data was gathered using an online questionnaire provided directly to law enforcement agencies. A total of 154 law enforcement officers participated in the study, 50.65% were females, and 49.35% were males. The mean age was 41.2 (age range = 22–61). In order to analyze the data, SEM and multiple linear regression methods were used. Results: This study analyzed variables of motion recognition, personality traits, and needs satisfaction and confirmed that law enforcement officers’ personality traits play a significant role in emotion recognition. Respondents’ agreeableness significantly predicted increased overall emotion recognition; conscientiousness predicted increased anger recognition; joy recognition was significantly predicted by extraversion, neuroticism, and agreeableness. This study also confirmed that law enforcement officers’ basic psychological needs satisfaction/frustration play a significant role in emotion recognition. Respondents’ relatedness satisfaction significantly predicted increased overall emotion recognition, fear recognition, joy recognition, and sadness recognition. Relatedness frustration significantly predicted decreased anger recognition, surprise recognition, and neutral face recognition. Furthermore, this study confirmed links between law enforcement officers’ personality traits, satisfaction/frustration of basic psychological needs, and emotion recognition, χ2 = 57.924; df = 41; p = 0.042; TLI = 0.929; CFI = 0.956; RMSEA = 0.042 [0.009–0.065]. Discussion: The findings suggested that agreeableness, conscientiousness, extraversion, and neuroticism play an essential role in satisfaction and frustration of relatedness needs, which, subsequently, link to emotion recognition. Due to the relatively small sample size, the issues of validity/reliability of some instruments, and other limitations, the results of this study should preferably be regarded with concern.
Requirements Analysis for Development of Off-Site Construction Project Management System: Focusing on Precast Concrete Construction
Authors: Jang YeEun , Son JeongWook , Hwang Sungjoo
Published: September 2022

There has been increasing interest in the off-site construction (OSC) method in response to issues such as stagnant labor productivity, shortage of skilled workers, challenging site management, heightened safety and health-related regulations, and the push for carbon neutrality. Although efficient performance of an OSC project requires development of management techniques, and application of a management system that reflects the characteristics of the OSC projects, related technologies remain in their infancy. In this study, targeting precast concrete (PC) construction, which is one of the representative construction types of the OSC method, we derive the characteristics of OSC project management in six aspects: production place and time, production process, production method of construction, production method, production entity and facilities, and production environment. Based on this result, we further derived the requirements for developing an OSC project management system. Furthermore, based on the derived requirements, we constructed a system development scenario for the establishment of an installation plan and shipment requests. The managerial characteristics and requirements of the OSC project, presented in this study, provide the theoretical basis for developing OSC project management techniques, as well as guidance for the development of the OSC project management system in the future.
A Comparative Study on Technical Standards for the Design of Emergency Medical Facilities in China in the Context of COVID-19
Authors: Ji Hui , Huang Lewen , Li Haoming , Zhang Jiangtao , Jing Qinlong , Deng Ji-Yu
Published: September 2022

The technical standards for the design and construction of emergency medical facilities play an important role in guiding the conversion of Fangcang shelter hospitals and the construction of emergency infectious disease hospitals and temporary facilities for medical quarantine and observation. However, due to the imperfections and superficialness of the current version of the existing technical standards, further improvement and optimization on the maturity and systematism are necessary. This paper presents an in-depth analysis and comparison on the detailed regulations and terms between the existing 11 sets of technical standards issued by the National Health Commission (NHC) and the provincial competent authorities of Hubei, Zhejiang, Jiangsu, Hebei, Shandong and Beijing. The similarities, disparities and deficiencies of these technical standards are summarized. Then, the primary contents, including the site selection and architectural design, heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), structural design, electricity intelligence, water supply and drainage, operation and maintenance, environmental health and safety, and fire protection, are analyzed in-depth from the view of infectious disease control and health safety. Furthermore, some critical principles related to the detailed terms of the architectural design, HVAC, electricity and water supply are concluded. Finally, some essential suggestions are proposed for the improvement and revision of these technical standards for better applications.
Origin of the Unexpected Enantioselectivity in the Enzymatic Reductions of 5-Membered-Ring Heterocyclic Ketones Catalyzed by Candida parapsilosis Carbonyl Reductases
Authors: Sim Byu Ri , Gu Jie , Ley Yvette , Luo Shenggan , Liu Yihan , Chen Qin , Nie Yao , Zhao Yi-Lei
Published: September 2022

Candida parapsilosis carbonyl reductases (CpRCR) have been widely used for the reductive conversion of ketone precursors and chiral alcohol products in pharmaceutical industries. The enzymatic enantioselectivity is believed to be related to the shape complementation between the cavities in the enzymes and the substitutions of the ketone substrates. In this work, we reported an unexpected enantioselectivity in the enzyme reductions of dihydrofuran-3(2H)-one (DHF) to (S)-tetrahydrofuran-3-ol (DHF-ol, enantiomeric excess: 96.4%), while dihydrothiophen-3(2H)-one substrate (DHT) was unproductive under the same experimental conditions. To rationalize the exclusive S-configuration and the specific reactivity of DHF, we carried out molecular dynamics simulations for the reacting complexations of DHF with CpRCR, and DHT with CpRCR. Our calculations indicate that DHF preferentially binds to the small cavity near L119, F285, and W286, while the large cavity near the α1 helix was mainly occupied by solvent water molecules. Moreover, the pre-reaction state analysis suggests that the pro-S conformations were more abundant than the pro-R, in particular for DHF. This suggests that the non-polar interaction of substrate C4-C5 methylene contacting the hydrophobic side-chains of L119-F285-W286, and the polar interaction of funanyl oxygen exposing the solvent environment play important roles in the enantioselectivity and reactivity. The phylogenetic tree of CpRCR homologues implies that a variety of amino acid combinations at positions 285 and 286 were available and thereby potentially useful for redesigning enantioselective reductions of 5-membered-ring heterocyclic ketones.
Self-Supported Polymeric Ruthenium Complexes as Olefin Metathesis Catalysts in Synthesis of Heterocyclic Compounds
Authors: Rajkiewicz Adam A. , Kajetanowicz Anna , Grela Karol
Published: September 2022

New ruthenium olefin metathesis catalysts containing N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) connected by a linker tether to a benzylidene ligand were studied. Such obtained self-chelated Hoveyda–Grubbs type complexes existed in the form of an organometallic polymer but could still catalyze olefin metathesis after being dissolved in an organic solvent. Although these polymeric catalysts exhibited a slightly lower activity compared to structurally related nonpolymeric catalysts, they were successfully used in a number of ring-closing metathesis reactions leading to a variety of heterocyclic compounds, including biologically and pharmacologically related analogues of cathepsin K inhibitor and sildenafil (Viagra™). In the last case, a good solubility of a polymeric catalyst in toluene allowed the separation of the product from the catalyst via simple filtration.
Cartilaginous Metabolomics Reveals the Biochemical-Niche Fate Control of Bone Marrow-Derived Stem Cells
Authors: Peng Haining , Zhang Yi , Ren Zhongkai , Wei Ziran , Chen Renjie , Zhang Yingze , Huang Xiaohong , Yu Tengbo
Published: September 2022

Joint disorders have become a global health issue with the growth of the aging population. Screening small active molecules targeting chondrogenic differentiation of bone marrow-derived stem cells (BMSCs) is of urgency. In this study, microfracture was employed to create a regenerative niche in rabbits (n = 9). Cartilage samples were collected four weeks post-surgery. Microfracture-caused morphological (n = 3) and metabolic (n = 6) changes were detected. Non-targeted metabolomic analysis revealed that there were 96 differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs) enriched in 70 pathways involved in anti-inflammation, lipid metabolism, signaling transduction, etc. Among the metabolites, docosapentaenoic acid 22n-3 (DPA) and ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) functionally facilitated cartilage defect healing, i.e., increasing the vitality and adaptation of the BMSCs, chondrogenic differentiation, and chondrocyte functionality. Our findings firstly reveal the differences in metabolomic activities between the normal and regenerated cartilages and provide a list of endogenous biomolecules potentially involved in the biochemical-niche fate control for chondrogenic differentiation of BMSCs. Ultimately, the biomolecules may serve as anti-aging supplements for chondrocyte renewal or as drug candidates for cartilage regenerative medicine.
CORK1, A LRR-Malectin Receptor Kinase, Is Required for Cellooligomer-Induced Responses in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Tseng Yu-Heng , Scholz Sandra S. , Fliegmann Judith , Krüger Thomas , Gandhi Akanksha , Furch Alexandra C. U. , Kniemeyer Olaf , Brakhage Axel A. , Oelmüller Ralf
Published: September 2022

Cell wall integrity (CWI) maintenance is central for plant cells. Mechanical and chemical distortions, pH changes, and breakdown products of cell wall polysaccharides activate plasma membrane-localized receptors and induce appropriate downstream responses. Microbial interactions alter or destroy the structure of the plant cell wall, connecting CWI maintenance to immune responses. Cellulose is the major polysaccharide in the primary and secondary cell wall. Its breakdown generates short-chain cellooligomers that induce Ca2+-dependent CWI responses. We show that these responses require the malectin domain-containing CELLOOLIGOMER-RECEPTOR KINASE 1 (CORK1) in Arabidopsis and are preferentially activated by cellotriose (CT). CORK1 is required for cellooligomer-induced cytoplasmic Ca2+ elevation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, mitogen-associated protein kinase (MAPK) activation, cellulose synthase phosphorylation, and the regulation of CWI-related genes, including those involved in biosynthesis of cell wall material, secondary metabolites and tryptophan. Phosphoproteome analyses identified early targets involved in signaling, cellulose synthesis, the endoplasmic reticulum/Golgi secretory pathway, cell wall repair and immune responses. Two conserved phenylalanine residues in the malectin domain are crucial for CORK1 function. We propose that CORK1 is required for CWI and immune responses activated by cellulose breakdown products.