bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peluang Peluang dan tantangan pengembangan teknologi Oscilating Water Column (OWS) di Indonesia.
Authors: Arrohman Sigit , Himawanto Dwi Aries
Published: July 2021

Renewable energy is one of the government's efforts to increase the source of the national electricity supply and reduce fossil energy sources. Indonesia has the potential to develop renewable energy in the fields of ocean waves, sunlight, water, and geothermal. But of all these, the most promising to become renewable energy development opportunities are water energy, geothermal energy and ocean wave energy. Indonesia as an archipelagic country with an area of ​​1,904,556 km2 which consists of; 17,508 islands, 5.8 million km2 of ocean and 81,290 million km of beach length, the potential for marine energy, especially ocean waves, is very potential to be empowered as new and renewable alternative primary energy, especially for power generation. This ocean wave power plant has been widely developed, including: buoy type technology, overtopping devices technology, oscillating water column technology. Oscillating Water Column (OWC) is an alternative technology to convert ocean wave energy using an oscillating water column system. The ocean wave conversion technology of the OWC system was chosen because it is suitable in areas with steep coastal topography and has a wave height value between 0.2 m to 1.19 m and even exceeds so that the electricity generated is greater. OWC technology which will be developed for the territory of Indonesia has several opportunities and challenges. Opportunities and challenges that will be faced include the potential for waves, the application of OWC to waterways in Indonesia, OWC systems, and technology investment for the prospect of long-term energy development in Indonesia.
PENGARUH DEBIT ALIRAN RESIN BISPHENOL A LP-1Q-EX PADA METODE VACUUM INFUSION RESIN TERHADAP KEKUATAN TARIK KOMPOSIT SERAT KULIT POHON WARU (HIBISCUS TILIACEUS)
Authors: Wicaksono Teddy Wicaksono , Farid Akhmad , Ismail Nova Risdiyanto , Fadhillah Arief Rizki
Published: July 2021

Research on natural fiber composites is being carried out in various parts of the world to produce solutions to environmental problems by utilizing natural fiber materials prepared for environmentally friendly and renewable materials. The natural fiber currently being developed for composite reinforcement is hibiscus bark fiber. This study aims to determine the effect of the flow rate of bisphenol A resin LP-1Q-EX on the vacuum infusion resin method on the tensile strength of hibiscus bark fiber composites. The method used in this study is the fiber structure model in the direction of tensile load, composite using hibiscus bark fiber (Hibiscus tiliaceus), composite using bisphenol A resin LP-1Q-EX, composite using mass fraction with a ratio of 60 fibers: 40 resin, Waru tree bark was treated with 6% NaOH alkaline soaking (aquades 938.8 grams, and NaOH 61.2 grams) for 120 minutes, the number of hibiscus tiliaceus bark fibers in one composite material was 22 fibers with a material thickness of 3.2 mm (according to ASTM D638-03 Type 1 standard), the composite was produced using the vacuum infusion resin method with variations in resin flow rate of 1.19 ml/s, 3.66 ml/s, 4.67 ml/s. The testing process in this study is a composite tensile test using the ASTM D638-03 Type I standard. The analysis of the fractures that occur in each specimen uses macro photos, namely the process of taking several photos of the fracture after the specimen is subjected to a tensile test using a digital camera placed on the ground. topped a tripod. The results of the composite tensile test showed that the variation of resin flow rate of 1.19 ml/s had the lowest tensile strength of 282.94 MPa, while the variation of flow discharge of 3.66 ml/s had the highest tensile strength of 301.75 MPa. and the flow variation of 4.67 ml/s has a tensile strength of 284.54 MPa. Based on the results of the tensile test of the hibiscus tiliaceus bark fiber composite using the vacuum infusion resin method, the highest strength was obtained at a variation of the resin flow rate of 3.66 ml/s.
Review: The Nose as a Route for Therapy. Part 2 Immunotherapy
Authors: Padayachee Yorissa , Flicker Sabine , Linton Sophia , Cafferkey John , Kon Onn Min , Johnston Sebastian L. , Ellis Anne K. , Desrosiers Martin , Turner Paul , Valenta Rudolf , Scadding Glenis Kathleen
Published: July 2021

The nose provides a route of access to the body for inhalants and fluids. Unsurprisingly it has a strong immune defense system, with involvement of innate (e.g., epithelial barrier, muco- ciliary clearance, nasal secretions with interferons, lysozyme, nitric oxide) and acquired (e.g., secreted immunoglobulins, lymphocytes) arms. The lattice network of dendritic cells surrounding the nostrils allows rapid uptake and sampling of molecules able to negotiate the epithelial barrier. Despite this many respiratory infections, including SARS-CoV2, are initiated through nasal mucosal contact, and the nasal mucosa is a significant “reservoir” for microbes includingStreptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis and SARS -CoV-2. This review includes consideration of the augmentation of immune defense by the nasal application of interferons, then the reduction of unnecessary inflammation and infection by alteration of the nasal microbiome. The nasal mucosa and associated lymphoid tissue (nasopharynx-associated lymphoid tissue, NALT) provides an important site for vaccine delivery, with cold-adapted live influenza strains (LAIV), which replicate intranasally, resulting in an immune response without significant clinical symptoms, being the most successful thus far. Finally, the clever intranasal application of antibodies bispecific for allergens and Intercellular Adhesion Molecule 1 (ICAM-1) as a topical treatment for allergic and RV-induced rhinitis is explained.
Geostatistical Learning: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Hoffimann Júlio , Zortea Maciel , de Carvalho Breno , Zadrozny Bianca
Published: July 2021

Statistical learning theory provides the foundation to applied machine learning, and its various successful applications in computer vision, natural language processing and other scientific domains. The theory, however, does not take into account the unique challenges of performing statistical learning in geospatial settings. For instance, it is well known that model errors cannot be assumed to be independent and identically distributed in geospatial (a.k.a. regionalized) variables due to spatial correlation; and trends caused by geophysical processes lead to covariate shifts between the domain where the model was trained and the domain where it will be applied, which in turn harm the use of classical learning methodologies that rely on random samples of the data. In this work, we introduce thegeostatistical (transfer) learningproblem, and illustrate the challenges of learning from geospatial data by assessing widely-used methods for estimating generalization error of learning models, under covariate shift and spatial correlation. Experiments with synthetic Gaussian process data as well as with real data from geophysical surveys in New Zealand indicate that none of the methods are adequate for model selection in a geospatial context. We provide general guidelines regarding the choice of these methods in practice while new methods are being actively researched.
Recent Advances in Heterologous Synthesis Paving Way for Future Green-Modular Bioindustries: A Review With Special Reference to Isoflavonoids
Authors: Sajid Moon , Stone Shane Ramsay , Kaur Parwinder
Published: July 2021

Isoflavonoids are well-known plant secondary metabolites that have gained importance in recent time due to their multiple nutraceutical and pharmaceutical applications. In plants, isoflavonoids play a role in plant defense and can confer the host plant a competitive advantage to survive and flourish under environmental challenges. In animals, isoflavonoids have been found to interact with multiple signaling pathways and have demonstrated estrogenic, antioxidant and anti-oncologic activities in vivo. The activity of isoflavonoids in the estrogen pathways is such that the class has also been collectively called phytoestrogens. Over 2,400 isoflavonoids, predominantly from legumes, have been identified so far. The biosynthetic pathways of several key isoflavonoids have been established, and the genes and regulatory components involved in the biosynthesis have been characterized. The biosynthesis and accumulation of isoflavonoids in plants are regulated by multiple complex environmental and genetic factors and interactions. Due to this complexity of secondary metabolism regulation, the export and engineering of isoflavonoid biosynthetic pathways into non-endogenous plants are difficult, and instead, the microorganisms Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Escherichia coli have been adapted and engineered for heterologous isoflavonoid synthesis. However, the current ex-planta production approaches have been limited due to slow enzyme kinetics and traditionally laborious genetic engineering methods and require further optimization and development to address the required titers, reaction rates and yield for commercial application. With recent progress in metabolic engineering and the availability of advanced synthetic biology tools, it is envisaged that highly efficient heterologous hosts will soon be engineered to fulfill the growing market demand.
Immediate and Delayed Effects of Cupping Therapy on Reducing Neuromuscular Fatigue
Authors: Hou Xiao , Wang Xiaoling , Griffin Lisa , Liao Fuyuan , Peters Joseph , Jan Yih-Kuen
Published: July 2021

Cupping therapy has been popular in elite athletes in recent years. However, the effect of cupping therapy on reducing muscle fatigue has not been investigated. The purpose of this study was to investigate the immediate and delayed effects of cupping therapy on reducing biceps brachii fatigue during biceps curls. Twelve healthy untrained participants were recruited for this repeated-measures study. Cupping therapy (–300 mmHg pressure for 5 min) and sham control (no negative pressure for 5 min) were applied after biceps fatigue induced by performing repeated biceps curls at 75% of the 10 repetitions of maximum of the non-dominant hand. Surface electromyography (EMG) with spectral analyses [mean frequency (MNF), median frequency (MDF), and spectral moments ratio (SMR)] were used to assess muscle fatigue during the fatigue task. EMG signals during the first 10 repetitions and the last 10 repetitions of biceps curls were used to assess neuromuscular fatigue. There were significant decreases in MNF and MDF and a significant increase in SMR immediately and 24 h after the sham control (no intervention). When comparing the MNF, MDF, and SMR after cupping therapy to the sham control, there was no significant immediate effect on reducing muscle fatigue. However, there was a significant delayed effect on improving recovery following fatigue for the cupping therapy compared to the sham control (MNF changes: sham 0.87 ± 0.02 vs. cupping 0.91 ± 0.02, p < 0.05; MDF changes sham: 0.85 ± 0.03 vs. cupping: 0.91 ± 0.02, p < 0.05; SMR changes: sham 1.89 ± 0.15 vs. cupping 1.58 ± 0.13, p < 0.05). The findings of this study demonstrate that there is a time effect of cupping therapy for reducing muscle fatigue. Cupping therapy is effective on reducing biceps brachii muscle fatigue after 24 h.
18F-ASEM Imaging for Evaluating Atherosclerotic Plaques Linked to α7-Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor
Authors: Yang Tao , Wang Dawei , Chen Xiangyi , Liang Yingkui , Guo Feng , Wu Chunxiao , Jia Liujun , Hou Zhihui , Li Wenliang , He ZuoXiang , Wang Xin
Published: July 2021

Background

Atherosclerosis is a chronic vascular inflammatory procedure alongside with lipid efflux disorder and foam cell formation. α7-Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR) is a gated-calcium transmembrane channel widely expressed in neuron and non-neuron cells, such as monocytes and macrophages, activated T cells, dendritic cells, and mast cells. 18F-ASEM is an inhibitor targeted to α7nAChR that had been successfully applied in nervous system diseases. Previous studies had highlighted that α7nAChR was related to the emergency of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques with excess inflammation cells. Thus, 18F-ASEM could be a complementary diagnostic approach to atherosclerotic plaques.

Materials and Methods

The synthesis of ASEM precursor and 18F-labeling had been performed successfully. We had established the ApoE–/– mice atherosclerotic plaques model (fed with western diet) and New Zealand rabbits atherosclerotic models (balloon-sprained experiment and western diet). After damage of endothelial cells and primary plaque formation, 18F-ASEM imaging of atherosclerotic plaques linked to α7nAChR had been conducted. In vivo micro-PET/CT imaging of ApoE–/– mice and the control group was performed 1 h after injection of 18F-ASEM (100–150 μCi); PET/CT imaging for rabbits with atherosclerotic plaques and control ones was also performed. Meanwhile, we also conducted CT scan on the abdominal aorta of these rabbits. After that, the animals were sacrificed, and the carotid and abdominal aorta were separately taken out for circular sections. The paraffin-embedded specimens were sectioned with 5 μm thickness and stained with hematoxylin–eosin (H&E) and oil red.

Results

In vivo vessel binding of 18F-ASEM and α7nAChR expression in the model group with atherosclerosis plaques was significantly higher than that in the control group. PET/CT imaging successfully identified the atherosclerotic plaques in ApoE–/– mice and model rabbits, whereas no obvious signals were detected in normal mice or rabbits. Compared with 18F-FDG, 18F-ASEM had more significant effect on the early monitoring of inflammation in carotid atherosclerotic plaques of ApoE–/– mice and model rabbits. 18F-ASEM had relatively more palpable effect on the imaging of abdominal aorta with atherosclerosis in rabbits. H&E and oil red staining identified the formation of atherosclerotic plaques in model animals, which provided pathological basis for the evaluation of imaging effects.

Conclusion

We first confirmed 18F-ASEM as radiotracer with good imaging properties for precise identification of atherosclerotic diseases.
Peptide-Enabled Targeted Delivery Systems for Therapeutic Applications
Authors: Liu Mingpeng , Fang Xiaocui , Yang Yanlian , Wang Chen
Published: July 2021

Receptor-targeting peptides have been extensively pursued for improving binding specificity and effective accumulation of drugs at the site of interest, and have remained challenging for extensive research efforts relating to chemotherapy in cancer treatments. By chemically linking a ligand of interest to drug-loaded nanocarriers, active targeting systems could be constructed. Peptide-functionalized nanostructures have been extensively pursued for biomedical applications, including drug delivery, biological imaging, liquid biopsy, and targeted therapies, and widely recognized as candidates of novel therapeutics due to their high specificity, well biocompatibility, and easy availability. We will endeavor to review a variety of strategies that have been demonstrated for improving receptor-specificity of the drug-loaded nanoscale structures using peptide ligands targeting tumor-related receptors. The effort could illustrate that the synergism of nano-sized structures with receptor-targeting peptides could lead to enrichment of biofunctions of nanostructures.
The mTOR–Autophagy Axis and the Control of Metabolism
Authors: Deleyto-Seldas Nerea , Efeyan Alejo
Published: July 2021

The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), master regulator of cellular metabolism, exists in two distinct complexes: mTOR complex 1 and mTOR complex 2 (mTORC1 and 2). MTORC1 is a master switch for most energetically onerous processes in the cell, driving cell growth and building cellular biomass in instances of nutrient sufficiency, and conversely, allowing autophagic recycling of cellular components upon nutrient limitation. The means by which the mTOR kinase blocks autophagy include direct inhibition of the early steps of the process, and the control of the lysosomal degradative capacity of the cell by inhibiting the transactivation of genes encoding structural, regulatory, and catalytic factors. Upon inhibition of mTOR, autophagic recycling of cellular components results in the reactivation of mTORC1; thus, autophagy lies both downstream and upstream of mTOR. The functional relationship between the mTOR pathway and autophagy involves complex regulatory loops that are significantly deciphered at the cellular level, but incompletely understood at the physiological level. Nevertheless, genetic evidence stemming from the use of engineered strains of mice has provided significant insight into the overlapping and complementary metabolic effects that physiological autophagy and the control of mTOR activity exert during fasting and nutrient overload.
Cell Division Cycle 5-Like Regulates Metaphase-to-Anaphase Transition in Meiotic Oocyte
Authors: Zhang Hong-Yong , Li Jian , Ouyang Ying-Chun , Meng Tie-Gang , Zhang Chun-Hui , Yue Wei , Sun Qing-Yuan , Qian Wei-Ping
Published: July 2021

The quality of oocytes is a vital factor for embryo development. Meiotic progression through metaphase I usually takes a relatively long time to ensure correct chromosome separation, a process that is critical for determining oocyte quality. Here, we report that cell division cycle 5-like (Cdc5L) plays a critical role in regulating metaphase-to-anaphase I transition during mouse oocyte meiotic maturation. Knockdown of Cdc5L by small interfering RNA injection did not affect spindle assembly but caused metaphase I arrest and subsequent reduced first polar body extrusion due to insufficient anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome activity. We further showed that Cdc5L could also directly interact with securin, and Cdc5L knockdown led to a continuous high expression level of securin, causing severely compromised meiotic progression. The metaphase-to-anaphase I arrest caused by Cdc5L knockdown could be rescued by knockdown of endogenous securin. In summary, we reveal a novel role for Cdc5L in regulating mouse oocyte meiotic progression by interacting with securin.
Mitochondrial Protein Translation: Emerging Roles and Clinical Significance in Disease
Authors: Wang Fei , Zhang Deyu , Zhang Dejiu , Li Peifeng , Gao Yanyan
Published: July 2021

Mitochondria are one of the most important organelles in cells. Mitochondria are semi-autonomous organelles with their own genetic system, and can independently replicate, transcribe, and translate mitochondrial DNA. Translation initiation, elongation, termination, and recycling of the ribosome are four stages in the process of mitochondrial protein translation. In this process, mitochondrial protein translation factors and translation activators, mitochondrial RNA, and other regulatory factors regulate mitochondrial protein translation. Mitochondrial protein translation abnormalities are associated with a variety of diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and nervous system diseases. Mutation or deletion of various mitochondrial protein translation factors and translation activators leads to abnormal mitochondrial protein translation. Mitochondrial tRNAs and mitochondrial ribosomal proteins are essential players during translation and mutations in genes encoding them represent a large fraction of mitochondrial diseases. Moreover, there is crosstalk between mitochondrial protein translation and cytoplasmic translation, and the imbalance between mitochondrial protein translation and cytoplasmic translation can affect some physiological and pathological processes. This review summarizes the regulation of mitochondrial protein translation factors, mitochondrial ribosomal proteins, mitochondrial tRNAs, and mitochondrial aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases (mt-aaRSs) in the mitochondrial protein translation process and its relationship with diseases. The regulation of mitochondrial protein translation and cytoplasmic translation in multiple diseases is also summarized.
Ubiquitination-Dependent Regulation of Small GTPases in Membrane Trafficking: From Cell Biology to Human Diseases
Authors: Lei Zehui , Wang Jing , Zhang Lingqiang , Liu Cui Hua
Published: July 2021

Membrane trafficking is critical for cellular homeostasis, which is mainly carried out by small GTPases, a class of proteins functioning in vesicle budding, transport, tethering and fusion processes. The accurate and organized membrane trafficking relies on the proper regulation of small GTPases, which involves the conversion between GTP- and GDP-bound small GTPases mediated by guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) and GTPase-activating proteins (GAPs). Emerging evidence indicates that post-translational modifications (PTMs) of small GTPases, especially ubiquitination, play an important role in the spatio-temporal regulation of small GTPases, and the dysregulation of small GTPase ubiquitination can result in multiple human diseases. In this review, we introduce small GTPases-mediated membrane trafficking pathways and the biological processes of ubiquitination-dependent regulation of small GTPases, including the regulation of small GTPase stability, activity and localization. We then discuss the dysregulation of small GTPase ubiquitination and the associated human membrane trafficking-related diseases, focusing on the neurological diseases and infections. An in-depth understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which ubiquitination regulates small GTPases can provide novel insights into the membrane trafficking process, which knowledge is valuable for the development of more effective and specific therapeutics for membrane trafficking-related human diseases.
Sustainable Wood Nanotechnologies for Wood Composites Processed by In-Situ Polymerization
Authors: Montanari Céline , Olsén Peter , Berglund Lars A.
Published: July 2021

The development of large, multifunctional structures from sustainable wood nanomaterials is challenging. The need to improve mechanical performance, reduce moisture sensitivity, and add new functionalities, provides motivation for nanostructural tailoring. Although existing wood composites are commercially successful, materials development has not targeted nano-structural control of the wood cell wall, which could extend the property range. For sustainable development, non-toxic reactants, green chemistry and processing, lowered cumulative energy requirements, and lowered CO2-emissions are important targets. Here, modified wood substrates in the form of veneer are suggested as nanomaterial components for large, load-bearing structures. Examples include polymerization of bio-based monomers inside the cell wall, green chemistry wood modification, and addition of functional inorganic nanoparticles inside the cell wall. The perspective aims to describe bio-based polymers and green processing concepts for this purpose, along with wood nanoscience challenges.
Selective Production of Phenol-Rich Bio-Oil From Corn Straw Waste by Direct Microwave Pyrolysis Without Extra Catalyst
Authors: Zhao Zhiyue , Jiang Zhiwei , Xu Hong , Yan Kai
Published: July 2021

We report a sustainable strategy to cleanly address biomass waste with high-value utilization. Phenol-rich bio-oil is selectively produced by direct pyrolysis of biomass waste corn straw (CS) without use of any catalyst in a microwave device. The effects of temperature and power on the yield and composition of pyrolysis products are investigated in detail. Under microwave irradiation, a very fast pyrolysis rate and bio-oil yield as high as 46.7 wt.% were obtained, which were competitive with most of the previous results. GC-MS analysis showed that temperature and power (heating rate) had great influences on the yield of bio-oil and the selectivity of phenolic compounds. The optimal selectivity of phenols in bio-oil was 49.4 area% by adjusting the operating parameters. Besides, we have made detailed statistics on the change trend of some components and different phenols in bio-oil and given the law and reason of their change with temperature and power. The in situ formed highly active biochar from CS with high content of potassium (1.34 wt.%) is responsible for the improvement of phenol-rich oils. This study offers a sustainable way to fully utilize biomass waste and promote the achievement of carbon neutrality.
Chronic Intermittent Hypoxia Participates in the Pathogenesis of Atherosclerosis and Perturbs the Formation of Intestinal Microbiota
Authors: Hu Chaowei , Wang Pan , Yang Yunyun , Li Juan , Jiao Xiaolu , Yu Huahui , Wei Yongxiang , Li Jing , Qin Yanwen
Published: July 2021

Chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) is the prominent signature of highly prevalent obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) pathophysiology, which leads to increased risk and aggravation of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. However, whether intestinal microbiota is implicated in the mechanisms linking CIH to arteriosclerosis (AS) pathogenesis remains unclear. The association of CIH with the development of altered gut microbiota (GM) may provide the opportunity to develop preventive strategies for atherosclerotic cardiovascular risk reduction. Animal models of apolipoprotein E-deficient (apoE-/-) mice treated with high-fat diet (HFD) and subjected to CIH conditions was applied to mimic the AS observed in patients with OSA. The physiological status and atherosclerotic lesion formation were confirmed by histological analysis. 16S rDNA sequencing of fecal samples was conducted to determine the changes in gut microbial composition. Morphometric analysis demonstrated that CIH caused aggravated atherosclerotic lesions and facilitated AS in apoE-/- mice treated with HFD. The gut bacteria was significantly varied in AS and AS+CIH mice compared with that in the control mice. Significantly perturbed GM profiles were detected in AS mice with and without CIH, with altered microbial α- and β- diversity and shifts in bacterial compositions at phylum and genus levels. While the difference between AS and AS+CIH was observed at different bacteria taxa levels. Aggravation of reduced Sutterella and increased Halomonas, Halomonadaceae and Oceanospirillales was noted in CIH-treated AS mice. The correlation of intestinal bacterial parameters with pathological changes in artery indicated complicated interactions under CIH-induced GM dysbiosis. Furthermore, the gut microbial functions in the potential ability of replication recombination and repair proteins, glycan biosynthesis and metabolism, as well as metabolism of cofactors and vitamins were identified to be further suppressed by CIH. Our findings demonstrated a causal effect of CIH on GM alterations in AS mice and suggested that the disordered GM features in AS development were deteriorated by CIH, which may be associated with AS aggravation. Preventative strategies targeting gut microbiome are highly recommended for intervention of OSA-related AS.
Differences in Manifestations and Gut Microbiota Composition Between Patients With Different Henoch-Schonlein Purpura Phenotypes
Authors: Zhang Yuanzhen , Xia Guizhi , Nie Xiaojing , Zeng Yugui , Chen Yi , Qian Yifang , Chen Guangming , Huang Jun , Wang Chengfeng , Zhang Chuanyin , Huang Xiaoli , Yang Yuen , Qiu Xiaojian , Yang Fang , Chen Jie , Hu Jun
Published: July 2021

Background

Gut microbiota plays an important role in the pathogenesis of immune-mediated diseases. However, the complex pathogenesis of Henoch-Schonlein Purpura (HSP) remains elusive. This study aimed to characterize the gut microbiota in HSP patients and explore the potential association between gut microbiota composition and phenotypic changes in HSP.

Methods

16SrRNA gene sequencing and bioinformatic analyses were performed using total DNA extracted from the fecal microbiota of 34 children with HSP, including 18 primary cases, 16 recurrent cases, and 23 healthy children.

Results

The diversity indexes showed significant differences in the microbial community among the primary HSP groups, the recurrent HSP group and healthy controls. The abundance of Escherichia-Shigella in the recurrent HSP group was significantly higher than that in the primary HSP group, and the constructed ROC curve had an AUC value of 0.750. According to the Spearman correlation analysis, the abundance of Bacteroides was positively associated with the serum IgG level in children with HSP, while the abundance of Lachnoclostridium was negatively correlated with the complement component 3 (C3). The diversity indexes of gut microbiota in the HSP group with abdominal symptoms were higher than those in the HSP group without GI involvement, and also higher than those in the healthy control group. In the HSP group with GI involvement, the abundance of Faecalibacterium was decreased, while the abundance of Streptococcus and Fusobacteria was increased, compared to the HSP group without GI involvement.

Conclusions

The gut microbiota of children with HSP was different from that of healthy children. The genus Escherichia-Shigella has a diagnostic value for HSP recurrence. Bacteroides and Lachnoclostridium may affect IgG and complement C3 levels in children with HSP. Abdominal symptoms in HSP children were related to gut microbiota (Streptococcus and butyric acid-producing bacteria).
Registered Influenza Viral Vector Based Brucella abortus Vaccine for Cattle in Kazakhstan: Age-Wise Safety and Efficacy Studies
Authors: Ryskeldinova Sholpan , Zinina Nadezhda , Kydyrbayev Zhailaubay , Yespembetov Bolat , Kozhamkulov Yerken , Inkarbekov Dulat , Assanzhanova Nurika , Mailybayeva Aigerim , Bugybayeva Dina , Sarmykova Makhpal , Khairullin Berik , Tabynov Kairat , Bulashev Aitbay , Aitzhanov Batyrbek , Abeuov Khairulla , Sansyzbay Abylay , Yespolov Tlektes , Renukaradhya Gourapura J. , Olsen Steven , Oñate Angel , Tabynov Kaissar
Published: July 2021

A novel influenza viral vector basedBrucella abortusvaccine (Flu-BA) was introduced for use in cattle in Kazakhstan in 2019. In this study, the safety and efficacy of the vaccine was evaluated in male and female cattle at different ages, and during pregnancy as a part of its registration process. Our data demonstrated that the Flu-BA vaccine was safe after prime or booster vaccination in calves (5–7 months old male and female), heifers (15–17 months old) and cows (6–7 years old) and was not abortogenic in pregnant animals. A mild, localized granuloma was observed at the Flu-BA injection site. Vaccinated animals did not show signs of influenza infection or reduced milk production in dairy cows, and the influenza viral vector (IVV) was not recovered from nasal swabs or milk. Vaccinated animals in all age groups demonstrated increased IgG antibody responses againstBrucellaOmp16 and L7/L12 proteins with calves demonstrating the greatest increase in humoral responses. Following experimental challenge withB. abortus544, vaccinates demonstrated greater protection and no signs of clinical disease, including abortion, were observed. The vaccine effectiveness againstB. abortus 544infection was 75, 60 and 60%, respectively, in calves, heifers and adult cows.Brucellawere not isolated from calves of vaccinated cattle that were experimentally challenged during pregnancy. Our data suggests that the Flu-BA vaccine is safe and efficacious in cattle, including pregnant animals; and can therefore be administered to cattle of any age.
A Pilot Randomized Clinical Trial: Oral Miltefosine and Pentavalent Antimonials Associated With Pentoxifylline for the Treatment of American Tegumentary Leishmaniasis
Authors: Martins Sofia Sales , Barroso Daniel Holanda , Rodrigues Bruna Côrtes , da Motta Jorgeth de Oliveira Carneiro , Freire Gustavo Subtil Magalhães , Pereira Ledice Inácia de Araújo , Kurisky Patrícia Shu , Gomes Ciro Martins , Sampaio Raimunda Nonata Ribeiro
Published: July 2021

Introduction

American tegumentary leishmaniasis (ATL), which can present as either cutaneous (CL) or mucosal leishmaniasis (ML), is endemic in South America, and first-line antimonial treatments are known for their wide range of adverse effects (AEs). Growing reports of drug resistance increase the urgency of the need for better treatment options. The objective of this pilot clinical trial was to assess the efficacy of and AEs associated with the oral combination of miltefosine and pentoxifylline based on a post hoc analysis.

Methods

A pilot, randomized, open-label clinical trial was performed. The experimental group (M+P) received 50 mg twice a day (BID) miltefosine and 400 mg three times a day (TID) pentoxifylline, and the control group (A+P) received 20 mg Sb+V/kg/day intravenously and 400 mg TID pentoxifylline. Patients with ML received treatment for 28 days, and patients with CL received treatment for 20 days.

Results

Forty-three patients were included: 25 with ML and 18 with CL caused by L.(V.) braziliensis. AEs were more frequent in the A+P group (p=0.322), and there was a need for treatment interruption due to severe AEs (p=0.027). Patients with CL had a higher chance of achieving a cure (p=0.042) and a higher risk of AEs (p=0.033). There was no difference in the chance of a cure based on the treatment (p=0.058).

Conclusion

In this pilot randomized clinical trial, M+P treatment and A+P treatment yielded similar cure rates, and the former was associated with a lower risk of AEs. Future studies with more patients and longer follow-up are recommended.
A Novel Leptospira interrogans Protein LIC13086 Inhibits Fibrin Clot Formation and Interacts With Host Components
Authors: Passalia Felipe José , Heinemann Marcos Bryan , Vieira Mônica Larucci , Nascimento Ana Lucia T. O.
Published: July 2021

Leptospirosis is a neglected zoonosis, caused by pathogenic spirochetes bacteria of the genus Leptospira. The molecular mechanisms of leptospirosis infection are complex, and it is becoming clear that leptospires express several functionally redundant proteins to invade, disseminate, and escape the host’s immune response. Here, we describe a novel leptospiral protein encoded by the gene LIC13086 as an outer membrane protein. The recombinant protein LIC13086 can interact with the extracellular matrix component laminin and bind plasminogen, thus possibly participating during the adhesion process and dissemination. Also, by interacting with fibrinogen and plasma fibronectin, the protein LIC13086 probably has an inhibitory effect in the fibrin clot formation during the infection process. The newly characterized protein can also bind molecules of the complement system and the regulator C4BP and, thus, might have a role in the evasion mechanism of Leptospira. Taken together, our results suggest that the protein LIC13086 may have a multifunctional role in leptospiral pathogenesis, participating in host invasion, dissemination, and immune evasion processes.
Association Between Fasting Hyperglycemia and New-Onset Atrial Fibrillation in Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction and the Impact on Short- and Long-Term Prognosis
Authors: Li Mingxing , Gao Yingying , Guo Kai , Wu Zidi , Lao Yi , Li Jiewen , Huang Xuansheng , Feng Li , Dong Jianting , Yuan Yong
Published: July 2021

Background: The relationship between fasting hyperglycemia (FHG) and new-onset atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is unclear, and whether their co-occurrence is associated with a worse in-hospital and long-term prognosis than FHG or AF alone is unknown.

Objective: To explore the correlation between FHG and new-onset AF in patients with AMI, and their impact on in-hospital and long-term all-cause mortality.

Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study comprising 563 AMI patients. The patients were divided into the FHG group and the NFHG group. The incidence of new-onset AF during hospitalization was compared between the two groups and sub-groups under different Killip grades. Logistic regression was used to assess the association between FHG and new-onset AF. In-hospital mortality and long-term all-cause mortality were compared among patients with FHG, AF, and with both FHG and AF according to 10 years of follow-up information.

Results: New-onset AF occurred more frequently in the FHG group than in the NFHG group (21.6 vs. 9.2%, p < 0.001). This trend was observed for Killip grade I (16.6 vs. 6.5%, p = 0.002) and Grade II (17.1 vs. 6.9%, p = 0.005), but not for Killip grade III–IV (40 vs. 33.3%, p = 0.761). Logistic regression showed FHG independently correlated with new-onset AF (OR, 2.56; 95% CI, 1.53–4.30; P < 0.001), and 1 mmol/L increased in fasting glucose was associated with a 5% higher rate of new-onset AF, after adjustment for traditional AF risk factors. AMI patients complicated with both fasting hyperglycemia and AF showed the highest in-hospital mortality and long-term all-cause mortality during an average of 11.2 years of follow-up. Multivariate Cox regression showed FHG combined with AF independently correlated with long-term all-cause mortality after adjustment for other traditional risk factors (OR = 3.13, 95% CI 1.64–5.96, p = 0.001), compared with the group with neither FHG nor new-onset AF.

Conclusion: FHG was an independent risk factor for new-onset AF in patients with AMI. AMI patients complicated with both FHG and new-onset AF showed worse in-hospital and long-term all-cause mortality than with FHG or AF alone.
Adipose Tissue-Endothelial Cell Interactions in Obesity-Induced Endothelial Dysfunction
Authors: Li Manna , Qian Ming , Kyler Kathy , Xu Jian
Published: July 2021

Obesity has a strong impact on the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease, which raises enthusiasm to understand how excess adiposity causes vascular injury. Adipose tissue is an essential regulator of cardiovascular system through its endocrine and paracrine bioactive products. Obesity induces endothelial dysfunction, which often precedes and leads to the development of cardiovascular diseases. Connecting adipose tissue-endothelial cell interplay to endothelial dysfunction may help us to better understand obesity-induced cardiovascular disease. This Mini Review discussed (1) the general interactions and obesity-induced endothelial dysfunction, (2) potential targets, and (3) the outstanding questions for future research.
Glial and Neuronal Neuroglian, Semaphorin-1a and Plexin A Regulate Morphological and Functional Differentiation of Drosophila Insulin-Producing Cells
Authors: Clements Jason , Buhler Kurt , Winant Mattias , Vulsteke Veerle , Callaerts Patrick
Published: July 2021

The insulin-producing cells (IPCs), a group of 14 neurons in the Drosophila brain, regulate numerous processes, including energy homeostasis, lifespan, stress response, fecundity, and various behaviors, such as foraging and sleep. Despite their importance, little is known about the development and the factors that regulate morphological and functional differentiation of IPCs. In this study, we describe the use of a new transgenic reporter to characterize the role of the Drosophila L1-CAM homolog Neuroglian (Nrg), and the transmembrane Semaphorin-1a (Sema-1a) and its receptor Plexin A (PlexA) in the differentiation of the insulin-producing neurons. Loss of Nrg results in defasciculation and abnormal neurite branching, including ectopic neurites in the IPC neurons. Cell-type specific RNAi knockdown experiments reveal that Nrg, Sema-1a and PlexA are required in IPCs and glia to control normal morphological differentiation of IPCs albeit with a stronger contribution of Nrg and Sema-1a in glia and of PlexA in the IPCs. These observations provide new insights into the development of the IPC neurons and identify a novel role for Sema-1a in glia. In addition, we show that Nrg, Sema-1a and PlexA in glia and IPCs not only regulate morphological but also functional differentiation of the IPCs and that the functional deficits are likely independent of the morphological phenotypes. The requirements of nrg, Sema-1a, and PlexA in IPC development and the expression of their vertebrate counterparts in the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, suggest that these functions may be evolutionarily conserved in the establishment of vertebrate endocrine systems.
Leptin Receptor Expressing Neurons in the Substantia Nigra Regulate Locomotion, and in The Ventral Tegmental Area Motivation and Feeding
Authors: de Vrind Véronne A. J. , van ‘t Sant Lisanne J. , Rozeboom Annemieke , Luijendijk-Berg Mieneke C. M. , Omrani Azar , Adan Roger A. H.
Published: July 2021

Leptin is an anorexigenic hormone, important in the regulation of body weight. Leptin plays a role in food reward, feeding, locomotion and anxiety. Leptin receptors (LepR) are expressed in many brain areas, including the midbrain. In most studies that target the midbrain, either all LepR neurons of the midbrain or those of the ventral tegmental area (VTA) were targeted, but the role of substantia nigra (SN) LepR neurons has not been investigated. These studies have reported contradicting results regarding motivational behavior for food reward, feeding and locomotion. Since not all midbrain LepR mediated behaviors can be explained by LepR neurons in the VTA alone, we hypothesized that SN LepR neurons may provide further insight. We first characterized SN LepR and VTA LepR expression, which revealed LepR expression mainly on DA neurons. To further understand the role of midbrain LepR neurons in body weight regulation, we chemogenetically activated VTA LepR or SN LepR neurons in LepR-cre mice and tested for motivational behavior, feeding and locomotion. Activation of VTA LepR neurons in food restricted mice decreased motivation for food reward (p=0.032) and food intake (p=0.020), but not locomotion. In contrast, activation of SN LepR neurons in food restricted mice decreased locomotion (p=0.025), but not motivation for food reward or food intake. Our results provide evidence that VTA LepR and SN LepR neurons serve different functions, i.e. activation of VTA LepR neurons modulated motivation for food reward and feeding, while SN LepR neurons modulated locomotor activity.
Investigating the Role of the microRNA-34/449 Family in Male Infertility: A Critical Analysis and Review of the Literature
Authors: Pantos Konstantinos , Grigoriadis Sokratis , Tomara Penelope , Louka Ioanna , Maziotis Evangelos , Pantou Agni , Nitsos Nikolaos , Vaxevanoglou Terpsithea , Kokkali Georgia , Agarwal Ashok , Sfakianoudis Konstantinos , Simopoulou Mara
Published: July 2021

There is a great body of evidence suggesting that in both humans and animal models the microRNA-34/449 (miR-34/449) family plays a crucial role for normal testicular functionality as well as for successful spermatogenesis, regulating spermatozoa maturation and functionality. This review and critical analysis aims to summarize the potential mechanisms via which miR-34/449 dysregulation could lead to male infertility. Existing data indicate that miR-34/449 family members regulate ciliogenesis in the efferent ductules epithelium. Upon miR-34/449 dysregulation, ciliogenesis in the efferent ductules is significantly impaired, leading to sperm aggregation and agglutination as well as to defective reabsorption of the seminiferous tubular fluids. These events in turn cause obstruction of the efferent ductules and thus accumulation of the tubular fluids resulting to high hydrostatic pressure into the testis. High hydrostatic pressure progressively leads to testicular dysfunction as well as to spermatogenic failure and finally to male infertility, which could range from severe oligoasthenozoospermia to azoospermia. In addition, miR-34/449 family members act as significant regulators of spermatogenesis with an essential role in controlling expression patterns of several spermatogenesis-related proteins. It is demonstrated that these microRNAs are meiotic specific microRNAs as their expression is relatively higher at the initiation of meiotic divisions during spermatogenesis. Moreover, data indicate that these molecules are essential for proper formation as well as for proper function of spermatozoa per se. MicroRNA-34/449 family seems to exert significant anti-oxidant and anti-apoptotic properties and thus contribute to testicular homeostatic regulation. Considering the clinical significance of these microRNAs, data indicate that the altered expression of the miR-34/449 family members is strongly associated with several aspects of male infertility. Most importantly, miR-34/449 levels in spermatozoa, in testicular tissues as well as in seminal plasma seem to be directly associated with severity of male infertility, indicating that these microRNAs could serve as potential sensitive biomarkers for an accurate individualized differential diagnosis, as well as for the assessment of the severity of male factor infertility. In conclusion, dysregulation of miR-34/449 family detrimentally affects male reproductive potential, impairing both testicular functionality as well as spermatogenesis. Future studies are needed to verify these conclusions.
Neuromedins NMU and NMS: An Updated Overview of Their Functions
Authors: Malendowicz Ludwik K. , Rucinski Marcin
Published: July 2021

More than 35 years have passed since the identification of neuromedin U (NMU). Dozens of publications have been devoted to its physiological role in the organism, which have provided insight into its occurrence in the body, its synthesis and mechanism of action at the cellular level. Two G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) have been identified, with NMUR1 distributed mainly peripherally and NMUR2 predominantly centrally. Recognition of the role of NMU in the control of energy homeostasis of the body has greatly increased interest in this neuromedin. In 2005 a second, structurally related peptide, neuromedin S (NMS) was identified. The expression of NMS is more restricted, it is predominantly found in the central nervous system. In recent years, further peptides related to NMU and NMS have been identified. These are neuromedin U precursor related peptide (NURP) and neuromedin S precursor related peptide (NSRP), which also exert biological effects without acting via NMUR1, or NMUR2. This observation suggests the presence of another, as yet unrecognized receptor. Another unresolved issue within the NMU/NMS system is the differences in the effects of various NMU isoforms on diverse cell lines. It seems that development of highly specific NMUR1 and NMUR2 receptor antagonists would allow for a more detailed understanding of the mechanisms of action of NMU/NMS and related peptides in the body. They could form the basis for attempts to use such compounds in the treatment of disorders, for example, metabolic disorders, circadian rhythm, stress, etc.
Distributed Fault Diagnosis Framework for Nuclear Power Plants
Authors: Guohua Wu , Zhiyong Duan , Diping Yuan , Jiyao Yin , Caixue Liu , Dongxu Ji
Published: July 2021

A fault diagnosis can quickly and accurately diagnose the cause of a fault. Focusing on the characteristics of nuclear power plants (NPPs), this study proposes a distributed fault diagnosis method based on a back propagation (BP) neural network and decision tree reasoning. First, the fault diagnosis was carried out using the BP neural network and decision tree reasoning, and then a global fusion diagnosis was performed by fusing the resulting information. Second, the key technologies of the BP neural network and decision tree sample construction were studied. Finally, the simulation results show that the proposed distributed fault diagnosis system is highly reliable and has strong diagnostic ability, enabling efficient and accurate diagnoses to be realized. The distributed fault diagnosis system for NPPs provides a solid foundation for future research.