bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impacts of Climate Smart Agriculture Practices on Soil Water Conservation and Maize Productivity in Rainfed Cropping Systems of Uganda
Authors: Zizinga Alex , Mwanjalolo Jackson-Gilbert Majaliwa , Tietjen Britta , Bedadi Bobe , Gabiri Geofrey , Luswata Kizza Charles
Published: May 2022

With climate change, maize production is becoming more constrained by limited water availability especially in rainfed production systems. Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) practices have potential to enhance water availability and water use efficiency in rainfed production systems, but their efficiencies have not been adequately investigated. The study evaluated the performance of permanent planting basins (PPB), mulching (M), and halfmoon pits (HM) on soil moisture storage, maize yield, and water use efficiency in a maize cropping system for the sub-humid areas of Uganda for three cropping seasons in Albert region. The control treatment consisted of bare soil as the existing conventional farming practice without any CSA practice. Maize growth parameters and soil moisture storage were monitored and evaluated in each cropping season and CSA treatment. The maize yield, water use efficiency, and evapotranspiration (ET), were determined in each CSA treatment. Results showed that CSA practices significantly increased (P < 0.05) total soil water storage (1–12%) than the control treatment. It was also noted that; the use of M, PPB, and HM increased the water use efficiency by 9 – 68% and 8 – 66% of grain yield compared to the control in the three growing seasons. Our results indicate that even under unreliable and limited precipitation in sub-humid regions, the studied CSA practices indicate a high possibility to increase maize productivity than conventional farming practices (control). These findings are critical as climate change continues to affect maize productivity in rainfed farming systems where there limited supplemental water alternative sources for smallholder farmers. The adoption of CSA practices will enhance the resilience of maize production in sub-humid regions.
Bovine In Vitro Oocyte Maturation and Embryo Production Used as a Model for Testing Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals Eliciting Female Reproductive Toxicity With Diethylstilbestrol as a Showcase Compound
Authors: Asimaki K. , Vazakidou P. , van Tol H. T. A. , Oei C. H. Y. , Modder E. A. , van Duursen M. B. M. , Gadella B. M.
Published: May 2022

Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can interfere with normal hormonal action and regulation. Exposure of women to EDCs has been associated with adverse reproductive health outcomes. The assays currently used to identify EDCs that elicit female reproductive toxicity lack screening tests that address effects on the maturation of oocytes, a process that enables them to be fertilized and develop into embryos. Here, a screening method employing the bovine model of in vitro oocyte maturation and embryo production is described. Endpoints explored address important events in oocyte maturation and developmental competence acquisition. To test the method, the effects of the known human EDC diethylstilbestrol (DES; an estrogen receptor agonist) were evaluated in a range of concentrations (10–9 M, 10–7 M, 10–5 M). Bovine oocytes were exposed to DES during in vitro maturation (IVM) or embryos were exposed during in vitro embryo culture (IVC). The endpoints evaluated included nuclear maturation, mitochondrial redistribution, cumulus cell expansion, apoptosis, and steroidogenesis. DES-exposed oocytes were fertilized to record embryo cleavage and blastocyst rates to uncover effects on developmental competence. Similarly, the development of embryos exposed to DES during IVC was monitored to assess the impact on early embryo development. Exposure to 10–9 M or 10–7 M DES did not affect the endpoints addressing oocyte maturation or embryo development. However, there were considerable detrimental effects observed in oocytes exposed to 10–5 M DES. Specifically, compared to vehicle-treated oocytes, there was a statistically significant reduction in nuclear maturation (3% vs 84%), cumulus expansion (2.8-fold vs 3.6-fold) and blastocyst rate (3% vs 32%). Additionally, progesterone and pregnenolone concentrations measured in IVM culture media were increased. The screening method described here shows that bovine oocytes were sensitive to the action of this particular chemical (i.e., DES), albeit at high concentrations. In principle, this method provides a valuable tool to assess the oocyte maturation process and early embryo development that can be used for reproductive toxicity screening and possibly EDC identification. Further studies should include EDCs with different mechanisms of action and additional endpoints to further demonstrate the applicability of the bovine oocyte model for chemical risk assessment purposes and EDC identification.
Genome-Wide Identification and Analysis of the NF-Y Transcription Factor Family in Medicago sativa L.
Authors: Song Tingting , Li Jiawei , Yuan Yuying , Yu Jinqiu , Cao Yuqi , Cai Hua , Cui Guowen
Published: May 2022

The nuclear factor Y (NF-Y) gene family is an important transcription factor family consisting of three subfamilies, NF-YA, NF-YB and NF-YC, which are widely involved in plant growth and development, stress responses and other processes. In this study, we identified 64 members of the NF-Y gene family in the M. sativa L. (Xinjiang Daye) genome, including 11 MsNF-YAs, 33 MsNF-YBs and 20 MsNF-YCs. Analysis of conserved motifs indicated that each unit included unique compounds of motifs, although certain members lost some motifs. Conserved functional domain analysis showed that each subunit contained a specific set of functional domains. Analysis of cis-acting elements in the promoter region of the MsNF-Y genes identified a series of cis-acting elements associated with stress responses. In addition, the transcriptome data and qRT-PCR analysis showed that MsNF-Y genes were significantly induced or downregulated by alkali treatment. The results of this study may help to establish a basis for further cloning and functional studies of NF-Y genes in Medicago sativa and other related legume species.
Assessing Ecosystem Services of Rice–Fish Co-Culture and Rice Monoculture in Thailand
Authors: Arunrat Noppol , Sereenonchai Sukanya
Published: May 2022

Increasing production costs for rice monoculture and concerns about farming households’ food security have motivated farmers to adopt integrated rice–fish farming. To date, there has been little research that comparatively assesses the ecosystem services (ESVs) of both rice–fish co-culture and the rice monoculture system in Thailand. Therefore, this study aims to estimate the ESV values of these systems based on the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment. A total of 19 rice–fish co-culture farms were investigated, covering three regions of Thailand (northern, northeastern, and central regions) and consisting of 13 sub-districts, 13 districts, and 11 provinces. For a fair comparison, 19 conventional rice farms were selected as comparison sites. Rice–fish co-culture had a higher net ESV value of 48,450,968.4 THB ha−1 year−1 than rice monoculture with a net ESV value of 42,422,598.5 THB ha−1 year−1. Rice–fish co-culture generated average economic values 25.40% higher than in rice monoculture farming. The most positive change in ESV was found in the regulation of temperature and humidity, with 3,160,862.9 THB ha−1 year−1. Moreover, agrotourism can generate revenue and increase the ESV in rice–fish co-culture. Our findings showed that rice–fish co-culture gives more economic and ecological benefits compared to the rice monoculture system. Further studies are recommended to explore and analyze the potential advantages of the rice–fish system in more detail.
Effect of Potassium (K) Supply on Cannabinoids, Terpenoids and Plant Function in Medical Cannabis
Authors: Saloner Avia , Bernstein Nirit
Published: May 2022

We have demonstrated in previous studies that the essential macro-nutrients nitrogen (N) and phosporous (P) have profound effects on the production of cannabinoids and terpenoids in the cannabis plant. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the hypothesis that potassium (K) supply, which is known to substantially affect plant development and function, affects the secondary metabolism of the cannabis plant. Two cultivars of medical cannabis were grown in controlled environment conditions, under five levels of K supply: 15, 60, 100, 175, and 240 mg L−1 K. The results revealed that the development and function of plants that received the low K supply of 15 mg L−1 K were impaired, as the plants suffered from visual chlorosis, and the inflorescence yield was reduced in both cultivars. Plants that received higher K inputs in the range of −175 mg L−1 K demonstrated optimal plant function and high yield, and one cultivar demonstrated over-supply symptoms under the high K level of 240 mg L−1. The concentrations of most cannabinoids and terpenoids declined with the elevation of K supply, thus supporting the hypothesis. As secondary metabolite concentrations decreased with the increase in K supply, and higher K levels had no positive effects, 60 mg L−1 K is the suggested application level to maintain high function and yield combined with high secondary metabolism.
Paradox Role of Oxidative Stress in Cancer: State of the Art
Authors: Domenicotti Cinzia , Marengo Barbara
Published: May 2022

The modulation of oxidative stress is essential for the maintenance of redox homeostasis in healthy and cancer cells [...]
The Systemic Effects of Exercise on the Systemic Effects of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Aczel Dora , Gyorgy Bernadett , Bakonyi Peter , BukhAri RehAn , Pinho Ricardo , Boldogh Istvan , Yaodong Gu , Radak Zsolt
Published: May 2022

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive degenerative disorder and a leading cause of dementia in the elderly. The etiology of AD is multifactorial, including an increased oxidative state, deposition of amyloid plaques, and neurofibrillary tangles of the tau protein. The formation of amyloid plaques is considered one of the first signs of the illness, but only in the central nervous system (CNS). Interestingly, results indicate that AD is not just localized in the brain but is also found in organs distant from the brain, such as the cardiovascular system, gut microbiome, liver, testes, and kidney. These observations make AD a complex systemic disorder. Still, no effective medications have been found, but regular physical activity has been considered to have a positive impact on this challenging disease. While several articles have been published on the benefits of physical activity on AD development in the CNS, its peripheral effects have not been discussed in detail. The provocative question arising is the following: is it possible that the beneficial effects of regular exercise on AD are due to the systemic impact of training, rather than just the effects of exercise on the brain? If so, does this mean that the level of fitness of these peripheral organs can directly or indirectly influence the incidence or progress of AD? Therefore, the present paper aims to summarize the systemic effects of both regular exercise and AD and point out how common exercise-induced adaptation via peripheral organs can decrease the incidence of AD or attenuate the progress of AD.
Identification of Modulators of the C. elegans Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor and Characterization of Transcriptomic and Metabolic AhR-1 Profiles
Authors: Larigot Lucie , Bui Linh-Chi , de Bouvier Marine , Pierre Ophélie , Pinon Grégory , Fiocca Justine , Ozeir Mohammad , Tourette Cendrine , Ottolenghi Chris , Imbeaud Sandrine , Pontoizeau Clément , Blaise Benjamin J. , Chevallier Aline , Tomkiewicz Céline , Legrand Béatrice , Elena-Herrmann Bénédicte , Néri Christian , Brinkmann Vanessa , Nioche Pierre , Barouki Robert , Ventura Natascia , Dairou Julien , Coumoul Xavier
Published: May 2022

The Aryl hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR) is a xenobiotic sensor in vertebrates, regulating the metabolism of its own ligands. However, no ligand has been identified to date for any AhR in invertebrates. In C. elegans, the AhR ortholog, AHR-1, displays physiological functions. Therefore, we compared the transcriptomic and metabolic profiles of worms expressing AHR-1 or not and investigated the putative panel of chemical AHR-1 modulators. The metabolomic profiling indicated a role for AHR-1 in amino acids, carbohydrates, and fatty acids metabolism. The transcriptional profiling in neurons expressing AHR-1, identified 95 down-regulated genes and 76 up-regulated genes associated with neuronal and metabolic functions in the nervous system. A gene reporter system allowed us to identify several AHR-1 modulators including bacterial, dietary, or environmental compounds. These results shed new light on the biological functions of AHR-1 in C. elegans and perspectives on the evolution of the AhR functions across species.
Protective Effect of Alpinia oxyphylla Fruit against tert-Butyl Hydroperoxide-Induced Toxicity in HepG2 Cells via Nrf2 Activation and Free Radical Scavenging and Its Active Molecules
Authors: Park Chae Lee , Kim Ji Hoon , Jeon Je-Seung , Lee Ju-hee , Zhang Kaixuan , Guo Shuo , Lee Do-hyun , Gao Eun Mei , Son Rak Ho , Kim Young-Mi , Park Gyu Hwan , Kim Chul Young
Published: May 2022

Alpinia oxyphylla Miq. (Zingiberaceae) extract exerts protective activity against tert-butyl hydroperoxide-induced toxicity in HepG2 cells, and the antioxidant response element (ARE) luciferase activity increased 6-fold at 30 μg/mL in HepG2 cells transiently transfected with ARE-luciferase. To identify active molecules, activity-guided isolation of the crude extract led to four sesquiterpenes (1, 2, 5, 6) and two diarylheptanoids (3 and 4) from an n-hexane extract and six sesquiterpenes (7–12) from an ethyl acetate extract. Chemical structures were elucidated by one-dimensional, two-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance (1D-, 2D-NMR), and mass (MS) spectral data. Among the isolated compounds, eudesma-3,11-dien-2-one (2) promoted the nuclear accumulation of nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) and increased the promoter property of the ARE. Diarylheptanoids, yakuchinone A (3), and 5′-hydroxyl-yakuchinone A (4) showed radical scavenging activity in 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS) assays. Furthermore, optimization of extraction solvents (ratios of water and ethanol) was performed by comparison of contents of active compounds, ARE-inducing activity, radical scavenging activity, and HepG2 cell protective activity. As a result, 75% ethanol was the best solvent for the extraction of A. oxyphylla fruit. This study demonstrated that A. oxyphylla exerted antioxidant effects via the Nrf2/HO-1 (heme oxygenase-1) pathway and radical scavenging along with active markers eudesma-3,11-dien-2-one (2) and yakuchinone A (3).
Measurement of the Machined Surface Diameter by a Laser Triangulation Sensor and Optimalization of Turning Conditions Based on the Diameter Deviation and Tool Wear by GRA and ANOVA
Authors: Jurko Jozef , Miškiv-Pavlík Martin , Hladký Vratislav , Lazorík Peter , Michalík Peter , Petruška Igor
Published: May 2022

One of the most important operations in the technological production process is the inspection of the manufactured product. The gradual wear of the tool affects the achievement of the required quality of the functional surfaces. In this research, we present the results of measuring the diameter deviation with a new generation laser triangulation sensor (LTS). At the same time, we have performed parametric optimization of several multi-responses, such as insert wear on the VBB flank side of cutting edge and diameter deviation Δd for a C45 steel sample during dry turning and using a sintered carbide insert, using the method of grey relational analysis (GRA) in combination with the Taguchi L16 orthogonal array. The optimal setting of input factors for multi-response parameters is ap 4-f 4-vc 1 i.e., depth of cut 0.5 mm, feed 0.4 mm per revolution, and a cutting speed of 70 m/min. At the same time, we present an evaluation of the significance of input factors using the method ANOVA.
Mutual Interdependence of the Physical Parameters Governing the Boundary-Layer Flow of Non-Newtonian Fluids
Authors: Al-Ashhab Samer , Wei Dongming , Alyami Salem A. , Azad AKM , Moni Mohammad Ali
Published: May 2022

We consider non-Newtonian boundary-layer fluid flow, governed by a power-law Ostwald-de Waele rheology. Boundary-layer flows of non-Newtonian fluids have far-reaching applications, and are very frequently encountered in physical, as well as, engineering and industrial processes. A similarity transformation results in a BVP consisting of an ODE and some boundary conditions. Our aim is to derive highly accurate analytical relationships between the physical and mathematical parameters associated with the BVP and boundary-layer flow problem. Mathematical analyses are employed, where the results are verified at the numerical computational level, illustrating the accuracy of the derived relations. A set of “Crocco variables” is used to transform the problem, and, where appropriate, techniques are used to deal with the resulting singularities in order to establish an efficient computational setting. The resulting computational setting provides an alternative, which is different from those previously used in the literature. We employ it to carry out our numerical computations.
Measurement of Large-Sized-Pipe Diameter Based on Stereo Vision
Authors: Liu Pu , Zhang Lieshan , Wang Meibao
Published: May 2022

To address the lack of fast and high-precision in situ measurement of large-sized pipes in current industrial applications, a pipe-diameter-measurement method based on stereo vision is designed in this paper. By using multiple sets of binocular cameras to perform 3D reconstruction and integration of multiple laser markers projected on measured cross sections of pipes, the pipe diameter can be estimated. In this method, a measurement algorithm is adopted to enable automatic matching of feature points through affine distance transformation, and an optimized point-cloud-registration algorithm with normal-vector constraints is used to ensure measurement robustness. To verify the feasibility of the method, an experimental system was built under laboratory conditions, and three types of pipes with outer diameters from 285 mm to 325 mm were measured. The experimental results show that the relative error is within ±0.570% and the maximum repeatability standard deviation is 0.551 mm. The experimental results basically meet industrial standards, and the proposed method therefore has good application prospects.
Autonomous, Digital-Twin Free Path Planning and Deployment for Robotic NDT: Introducing LPAS: Locate, Plan, Approach, Scan Using Low Cost Vision Sensors
Authors: Poole Alastair , Sutcliffe Mark , Pierce Gareth , Gachagan Anthony
Published: May 2022

Robotised Non Destructive Testing (NDT) presents multifaceted advantages, saving time and reducing repetitive manual workloads for highly skilled Ultrasonic Testing (UT) operators. Due to the requisite accuracy and reliability of the field, robotic NDT has traditionally relied on digital twins for complex path planning procedures enabling precise deployment of NDT equipment. This paper presents a multi-scale and collision-free path planning and implementation methodology enabling rapid deployment of robotised NDT with commercially available sensors. Novel algorithms are developed to plan paths over noisy and incomplete point clouds from low-cost sensors without the need for surface primitives. Further novelty is introduced in online path corrections utilising laser and force feedback while applying a Conformable-Wedge probe UT sensor. Finally, a novel source of data beneficial to automated NDT is introduced by collecting frictional forces of the surface informing the operator of the surface preparation quality. The culmination of this work is a new path-planning free, single-shot automated process removing the need for complex operator-driven procedures with a known surface, visualising collected data for the operator as a three-dimensional C-scan model. The dynamic robotic control enables a move to the industry 4.0 model of adaptive online path planning. Experimental results indicate the flexible and streamlined pipeline for robotic deployment, and demonstrate intuitive data visualisation to aid highly skilled operators in a wide field of industries.
Applications of Photodynamic Therapy in Endometrial Diseases
Authors: Correia-Barros Gabriela , Serambeque Beatriz , Carvalho Maria João , Marto Carlos Miguel , Pineiro Marta , Pinho e Melo Teresa M. V. D. , Botelho Maria Filomena , Laranjo Mafalda
Published: May 2022

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a medical procedure useful for several benign conditions (such as wound healing and infections) and cancer. PDT is minimally invasive, presents few side effects, good scaring, and is able to minimal tissue destruction maintaining organ anatomy and function. Endoscopic access to the uterus puts PDT in the spotlight for endometrial disease treatment. This work systematically reviews the current evidence of PDT’s potential and usefulness in endometrial diseases. Thus, this narrative review focused on PDT applications for endometrial disease, including reports regarding in vitro, ex vivo, animal, and clinical studies. Cell lines and primary samples were used as in vitro models of cancer, adenomyosis and endometrioses, while most animal studies focused the PDT outcomes on endometrial ablation. A few clinical attempts are known using PDT for endometrial ablation and cancer lesions. This review emphasises PDT as a promising field of research. This therapeutic approach has the potential to become an effective conservative treatment method for endometrial benign and malignant lesions. Further investigations with improved photosensitisers are highly expected.
Presence of Protease Inhibitor 9 and Granzyme B in Healthy and Pathological Human Corneas
Authors: Reinstein Merjava Stanislava , Kossl Jan , Neuwirth Ales , Skalicka Pavlina , Hlinomazova Zuzana , Holan Vladimir , Jirsova Katerina
Published: May 2022

The aim of this study was to find out whether protease inhibitor 9 (PI-9) and granzyme B (GrB) molecules that contribute to immune response and the immunological privilege of various tissues are expressed in healthy and pathological human corneas. Using cryosections, cell imprints of control corneoscleral discs, we showed that PI-9 was expressed particularly in the endothelium, the superficial and suprabasal epithelium of healthy corneas, limbus, and conjunctiva. GrB was localized in healthy corneal and conjunctival epithelium, while the endothelium showed weak immunostaining. The expression of PI-6 and GrB was confirmed by qRT-PCR. Increased expression levels of the PI-9 and GrB genes were determined when the corneas were cultured with proinflammatory cytokines. Fluorescent and enzymatic immunohistochemistry of pathological corneal explants (corneal melting and herpes virus keratitis) showed pronounced PI-9, GrB, human leucocyte antigen (HLA)-DR, and leukocyte-common antigen (CD45) signals localized in multicellular stromal infiltrates and inflammatory cells scattered in the corneal stroma. We conclude that increased expression of the PI-9 and GrB proteins under pathological conditions and their upregulation in an inflammatory environment indicate their participation in immune response of the cornea during the inflammatory process.
Tolerance of Rodents to an Intravenous Bolus Injection of Sodium Nitrate in a High Concentration
Authors: Katz-Brull Rachel
Published: May 2022

Nitrate, the inorganic anion NO3−, is found in many foods and is an endogenous mammalian metabolite, which is supplied mostly through the diet. Although much is known about the safety of sodium nitrate when given per os, methodological safety data on intravenous bolus injection of sodium nitrate to rodents are lacking. Recently, we have proposed a new use for nitrate, as a contrast agent for magnetic resonance imaging that will be metal free and leave no traces in the body and the environment further to the imaging examination. It was shown that a stable isotope-labelled analog of this ion (15NO3−), in a sodium nitrate solution form and hyperpolarized state, produces a high magnetic resonance signal with prolonged visibility. Therefore, sodium nitrate was targeted for further preclinical development in this context. In the absence of methodological safety data on the potential effects of a high concentration sodium nitrate bolus intravenous injection into rodents, we carried out such an investigation in mice and rats (n = 12 of each, 6 males and 6 females in each group, altogether 24 animals). We show here that an intravenous bolus administration of sodium nitrate at a concentration of 150 mM and a dose of 51 mg/Kg does not lead to adverse effects in mice and rats. This is the first investigation of the tolerance of rodents to an intravenous injection of sodium nitrate.
Integrated Expression Analysis of Small RNA, Degradome and Microarray Reveals Complex Regulatory Action of miRNA during Prolonged Shade in Swarnaprabha Rice
Authors: Panigrahy Madhusmita , Panigrahi Kishore Chandra Sekhar , Poli Yugandhar , Ranga Aman , Majeed Neelofar
Published: May 2022

Prolonged shade during the reproductive stage can result in significant yield losses in rice. For this study, we elucidated the role of microRNAs in prolonged-shade tolerance (~20 days of shade) in a shade-tolerant rice variety, Swarnaprabha (SP), in its reproductive stage using small RNA and degradome sequencing with expression analysis using microarray and qRT-PCR. This study demonstrates that miRNA (miR) regulation for shade-tolerance predominately comprises the deactivation of the miR itself, leading to the upregulation of their targets. Up- and downregulated differentially expressed miRs (DEms) presented drastic differences in the category of targets based on the function and pathway in which they are involved. Moreover, neutrally regulated and uniquely expressed miRs also contributed to the shade-tolerance response by altering the differential expression of their targets, probably due to their differential binding affinities. The upregulated DEms mostly targeted the cell wall, membrane, cytoskeleton, and cellulose synthesis-related transcripts, and the downregulated DEms targeted the transcripts of photosynthesis, carbon and sugar metabolism, energy metabolism, and amino acid and protein metabolism. We identified 16 miRNAs with 21 target pairs, whose actions may significantly contribute to the shade-tolerance phenotype and sustainable yield of SP. The most notable among these were found to be miR5493-OsSLAC and miR5144-OsLOG1 for enhanced panicle size, miR5493-OsBRITTLE1-1 for grain formation, miR6245-OsCsIF9 for decreased stem mechanical strength, miR5487-OsGns9 and miR168b-OsCP1 for better pollen development, and miR172b-OsbHLH153 for hyponasty under shade.
Relationship between Liver Stiffness and Steatosis in Obesity Conditions: In Vivo and In Vitro Studies
Authors: Baldini Francesca , Khalil Mohamad , Bartolozzi Alice , Vassalli Massimo , Di Ciaula Agostino , Portincasa Piero , Vergani Laura
Published: May 2022

Obesity is a major risk factor for metabolic dysfunction such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The NAFLD spectrum ranges from simple steatosis, to steatohepatitis, fibrosis, and cirrhosis. The aim of this study is to characterize the grade of steatosis being associated with overnutrition and obesity, both at the level of single hepatocyte and whole liver, and to correlate it with the hepatocyte/liver stiffness and dysfunction. For the in vivo study, 60 subjects were enrolled and grouped based on the stage of liver steatosis/fibrosis according to biochemical analyses, liver ultrasonography (USG) and acoustic radiation force impulse shear wave elastography (ARFI-SWE). For single hepatocyte analyses we employed in vitro models of moderate and severe steatosis on which to assess the single cell biomechanics by Single Cell Force Spectroscopy (SCFS) and Quantitative Phase Microscopy (QPM). Results show that in vivo liver stiffness depends mainly on the extent of fat accumulation and not on fibrosis. These results parallel the in vitro observations showing that hepatocyte stiffness and dysfunction increase with increasing fat accumulation and lipid droplet enlargement. Our findings indicate that the extent of steatosis markedly affects the biomechanical properties of both liver and single hepatocytes thus proving insights about the role of modulation of liver/hepatocyte elasticity as a physical mechanism transducing the obesity-dependent excess of plasmatic lipids towards liver steatosis and dysfunction.
Current Development of Nano-Drug Delivery to Target Macrophages
Authors: Cai Donglin , Gao Wendong , Li Zhelun , Zhang Yufeng , Xiao Lan , Xiao Yin
Published: May 2022

Macrophages are the most important innate immune cells that participate in various inflammation-related diseases. Therefore, macrophage-related pathological processes are essential targets in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Since nanoparticles (NPs) can be preferentially taken up by macrophages, NPs have attracted most attention for specific macrophage-targeting. In this review, the interactions between NPs and the immune system are introduced to help understand the pharmacokinetics and biodistribution of NPs in immune cells. The current design and strategy of NPs modification for specific macrophage-targeting are investigated and summarized.
Administration Routes as Modulators of the Intrahepatic Distribution and Anti-Anemic Activity of Salicylic Acid/Fe3O4 Nanoparticles
Authors: Mîndrilă Bogdan , Buteică Sandra-Alice , Mîndrilă Ion , Mihaiescu Dan-Eduard , Mănescu Marina-Daniela , Rogoveanu Ion
Published: May 2022

The liver is a key organ in the pharmacokinetics of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs). This paper examined how the intravenous (IV) or intragastric (IG) route of administration influenced the intrahepatic distribution or therapeutic effects of IONPs. Wistar rats, some with bleeding-induced anemia, and iron oxide nanoparticles functionalized with salicylic acid (SaIONPs), with an average hydrodynamic diameter of 73 nm, compatible with rat sinusoid fenestrations, were used in this study. Light microscopy and multispectral camera analysis of Prussian blue labeled SaIONPs allowed mapping of intrahepatic nanoparticle deposits and revealed intrahepatic distribution patterns specific to each route of administration: loading of Kupffer cells and periportal hepatocytes when the IV route was used and predominant loading of hepatocytes when the IG route was used. Reducing the time to return to baseline values for hemoglobin (HGB) in rats with bleeding-induced anemia with IV or IG therapy has proven the therapeutic potential of SaIONPs in such anemias. The long-term follow-up showed that IV therapy resulted in higher HGB values. Proper use of the administration routes may modulate intrahepatic distribution and therapeutic effects of nanoparticles. These results may be beneficial in theragnosis of liver disease.
The Optimal Determination of the Truncation Time of Non-Exponential Sound Decays
Authors: Chen Min , Lee Chang-Myung
Published: May 2022

The noise effects in the room impulse response (RIR) make the decay range of the integrated impulse response insufficient for reliable determination of reverberation time (RT). One of the preferred techniques to minimize noise effects is based on noise subtraction, RIR truncation, and correction for the truncation. The success of RT estimation through the method depends critically on the accurate estimation of the truncation time (TT). However, noise fluctuation and RIR irregularities can lead to discrepancies in the determined TT from the optimal value. The general goal of this paper is to improve RT estimates. An iterative procedure based on a non-exponential decay model consisting of a double-slope decay term and a noise term is presented to estimate the TT accurately. The model parameters are generated until the iterative procedure converges to a minimum difference between the energy decay curve (EDC) generated by the model and the Schroeder decay function. The decay rates of the EDCs with added pink noise levels are compared to those of the EDCs with low background noise. In addition, the detected TTs and the corresponding RTs are compared with the existing method and the noise compensation method (subtraction–truncation–correction method).
Recent Advances in Carbon-Silica Composites: Preparation, Properties, and Applications
Authors: Wu Tianhao , Ke Quanli , Lu Mei , Pan Pengyun , Zhou Ying , Gu Zhenyu , Cui Guokai , Lu Hanfeng
Published: May 2022

The thermal catalytic conversion of biomass is currently a prevalent method for producing activated carbon with superb textural properties and excellent adsorption performance. However, activated carbon suffers severely from its poor thermal stability, which can easily result in spontaneous burning. In contrast, silica material is famed for its easy accessibility, high specific surface area, and remarkable thermal stability; however, its broader applications are restricted by its strong hydrophilicity. Based on this, the present review summarizes the recent progress made in carbon-silica composite materials, including the various preparation methods using diverse carbon (including biomass resources) and silica precursors, their corresponding structure–function relationship, and their applications in adsorption, insulation, batteries, and sensors. Through their combination, the drawbacks of the individual materials are circumvented while their original advantages are maintained. Finally, several bottlenecks existing in the field of carbon-silica composites, from synthesis to applications, are discussed in this paper, and possible solutions are given accordingly.
Exosome-Associated circRNAs as Key Regulators of EMT in Cancer
Authors: Amicone Laura , Marchetti Alessandra , Cicchini Carla
Published: May 2022

Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a dynamic program of cell plasticity aberrantly reactivated in cancer. The crosstalk between tumor cells and the tumoral microenvironment (TME) has a pivotal importance for the induction of the EMT and the progression toward a malignant phenotype. Notably, exosomes are key mediators of this crosstalk as vehicles of specific molecular signals that include the class of circular RNAs (circRNAs). This review specifically focuses on the role of exosome-associated circRNAs as key regulators of EMT in cancer. The relevance of these molecules in regulating the intercellular communication in TME and tumor progression is highlighted. Moreover, the here-presented evidence indicates that exosome-associated circRNA modulation should be taken in account for cancer diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
Vitamin D and Forearm Fractures in Children Preliminary Findings: Risk Factors and Correlation between Low-Energy and High-Energy Fractures
Authors: Ducic Sinisa , Milanovic Filip , Lazovic Mikan , Bukva Bojan , Djuricic Goran , Radlovic Vladimir , Nikolic Dejan
Published: May 2022

Background: The forearm is the most common fracture site in childhood, accounting for every fourth pediatric fracture. It is well described that vitamin D is involved in the regulation of bone mineralization and skeletal homeostasis by the regulation of calcium absorption. The aim of our study was to determine the influence of 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels on forearm fracture falls in a pediatric population, depending on level of energy impact. Additionally, we also aimed to evaluate the correlation between 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and other tested risk factors for pediatric fractures. Methods: We evaluated 50 eligible children aged 3 to 12 years with a forearm fracture. According to energy impact, patients were grouped into low-energy fractures (LEF) and high-energy fractures (HEF) groups. The general characteristics of the patients included age, gender, sport participation, and fractured bone and its localization. We analyzed 25-hydroxyvitamin D, parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcium, magnesium, phosphate, C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, and body mass index (BMI). Results: There is a significant difference in the 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels distribution between LEF and HEF (p < 0.001) and PTH levels (p = 0.002). For magnesium levels, calcium levels, phosphate levels, and CRP levels, there were no significant differences in their frequency distribution. For the group of patients with LEF, there is a significantly positive correlation between 25-hydroxyvitamin D and calcium levels (p = 0.019) and a borderline significantly positive correlation between 25-hydroxyvitamin D and magnesium levels (p = 0.050). For the group of patients with HEF, there was only a significantly positive correlation between 25-hydroxyvitamin D and PTH levels (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Children with LEF were more frequently insufficient in 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels but had normal calcium levels, compared to the ones with HEF. These findings suggest that LEF and HEF in children might to a certain degree have different pathophysiological mechanisms.
Release of Endocannabinoids into the Cerebrospinal Fluid during the Induction of the Trigemino-Hypoglossal Reflex in Rats
Authors: Zubrzycki Marek , Zubrzycka Maria , Wysiadecki Grzegorz , Szemraj Janusz , Jerczynska Hanna , Stasiolek Mariusz
Published: May 2022

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays an important role in pain processing and modulation. Since the specific effects of endocannabinoids within the orofacial area are largely unknown, we aimed to determine whether an increase in the endocannabinoid concentration in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) caused by the peripheral administration of the FAAH inhibitor URB597 and tooth pulp stimulation would affect the transmission of impulses between the sensory and motor centers localized in the vicinity of the third and fourth cerebral ventricles. The study objectives were evaluated on rats using a method that allowed the recording of the amplitude of evoked tongue jerks (ETJ) in response to noxious tooth pulp stimulation and URB597 treatment. The amplitude of ETJ was a measure of the effect of endocannabinoids on the neural structures. The concentrations of the endocannabinoids tested (AEA and 2-AG) were determined in the CSF, along with the expression of the cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) in the tissues of the mesencephalon, thalamus, and hypothalamus. We demonstrated that anandamide (AEA), but not 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), was significantly increased in the CSF after treatment with a FAAH inhibitor, while tooth pulp stimulation had no effect on the AEA and 2-AG concentrations in the CSF. We also found positive correlations between the CSF AEA concentration and cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1R) expression in the brain, and between 2-AG and cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R), and negative correlations between the CSF concentration of AEA and brain CB2R expression, and between 2-AG and CB1R. Our study shows that endogenous AEA, which diffuses through the cerebroventricular ependyma into CSF and exerts a modulatory effect mediated by CB1Rs, alters the properties of neurons in the trigeminal sensory nuclei, interneurons, and motoneurons of the hypoglossal nerve. In addition, our findings may be consistent with the emerging concept that AEA and 2-AG have different regulatory mechanisms because they are involved differently in orofacial pain. We also suggest that FAAH inhibition may offer a therapeutic approach to the treatment of orofacial pain.
Lycopus lucidus Turcz Water Extract Ameliorates the Metabolic Disorder by Up-Regulated Major Urinary Protein Expression in High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity
Authors: Han Youngji , Choi Ji-Young , Kwon Eun-Young
Published: May 2022

Despite a century of research on obesity, metabolic disorders and their complications, including dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, and fatty liver disease remain a serious global health problem. Lycopus lucidus Turcz (LT) is a traditional medicine used for its anti-inflammatory properties that has not been evaluated for its efficacy in improving obesity. In this study, mice were fed a normal diet (n = 10) or obesity was induced with a high-fat diet (HFD, n = 20, 60% kcal from fat) for 4 weeks. The HFD mice were then divided into two groups, one of which received LT supplementation with water extract for 13 weeks [HFD (n = 10) or HFD with LT water extract (n = 10, 1.5%)]. LT reduced body and adipose tissue weight by elevating energy expenditure by increasing fatty oxidation in epididymal white adipose tissue (eWAT) and muscle. LT ameliorated dyslipidemia and hepatic steatosis by restricting lipogenesis. Additionally, LT normalized the impaired glucose homeostasis by diet-induced obesity to improve pancreatic islet dysfunction with increasing hepatic major urinary protein expression. Moreover, LT attenuated the inflammation and collagen accumulation in the liver and eWAT. In conclusion, these results suggest that LT can treat obesity-related metabolic disorders such as adiposity, dyslipidemia, hepatic steatosis, insulin resistance, and inflammation.
Towards a Flood Assessment Product for the Humanitarian and Disaster Management Sectors Based on GNSS Bistatic Radar Measurements
Authors: Rodriguez-Alvarez Nereida , Kruczkiewicz Andrew
Published: May 2022

This manuscript focuses on the need for tailoring flood assessment products to decision making within the humanitarian sector. Decision-makers often struggle to extract all of the information contained in scientific products, either because they come from different fields of expertise or because they have different needs that are not captured in the results or the processing of the data. Here we define the key elements of a flood assessment product designed for the humanitarian sector. From a remote sensing perspective, in order to assess flooding, the measurement sampling properties, i.e., spatial resolution and temporal repeat, are key. We have therefore implemented a methodology through the processing and interpretation of the measurements from the Cyclone Global Navigation Satellite System (CYGNSS) mission. CYGNSS measurements are usually parametrized in various possible observables. Those observables are then linked to the surface characteristics, such as, in this case, the presence of inundation in the CYGNSS footprint. Our methodology includes the variability of the pixels in landscapes with infrastructure, rivers, agricultural fields, rural areas, and other elements characteristic of the agricultural-urban interface. We provide an original methodology that uses CYGNSS mission bistatic radar measurements and an artificial intelligence classification algorithm based on statistical properties of the land pixels through a k-means clustering strategy to detect and monitor flooding events, as well as to characterize the land surface prior to and post flooding events. The novel methodology to derive a flooding product is then evaluated towards the needs of the humanitarian sector by a cognizant link (a translator) between technologists or scientists and decision-makers. The inclusion of humanitarian needs into product development following the advice of a cognizant link is novel to the applications developed employing GNSS bistatic radar data.
High-Temperature Aroma Mitigation and Fragrance Analysis of Ethyl Cellulose/Silica Hybrid Microcapsules for Scented Fabrics
Authors: Xiao Zuobing , Zhang Bin , Kou Xingran , Niu Yunwei , Hong Liu , Zhao Wei , Cai Haocheng , Lu Xinyu
Published: May 2022

Microencapsulation can improve the thermal stability of a fragrance, and composite wall materials are one way to further improve the thermal stability of microcapsules. This paper presents a facile approach for cotton fabric coatings by using cellulose/silica hybrid microcapsules. Lavender fragrance oil-loaded cellulose/silica hybrid microcapsules were one-step synthesized via emulsion solvent diffusion. The prepared microcapsules were found to be spherical in shape with a particle size distribution between 500 to 1000 nm. Due to the slow releasing of lavender fragrance oil in the capsules, the fragrance loss rate of (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES)-, triethoxy(3-glycidyloxypropyl)silane (GPTES)-, and (3-aercaptopropyl)trie-thoxysilane (MPTES)- modified cellulose/silica hybrid microcapsules are 25.2%, 35.1%, and 16.7% after six hours at 120 °C. E-nose and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GCMS) studies found that the fragranced cotton fabrics had good retention of characteristic aromas. It provides the basis for the application of the heating treatment of cotton fabrics in sterilization, bleaching, printing, and other processes.
DNA and BSA Interaction Studies and Antileukemic Evaluation of Polyaromatic Thiosemicarbazones and Their Copper Complexes
Authors: Pelosi Giorgio , Pinelli Silvana , Bisceglie Franco
Published: May 2022

Some ten million cancer deaths occurred in 2020, highlighting the fact that the search for new anticancer drugs remains extremely topical. In the search for new coordination compounds with relevant biological properties, the choice of a metal ion is important for the design of the complex. In this regard, copper plays a peculiar role, thanks to its distinct properties. Thiosemicarbazones are, analogously, a unique class of ligands because they are easily modifiable, and therefore, extremely versatile in terms of modulating molecular properties. In this work, we synthesized and characterized, by means of X-ray diffraction, four new naphthaldehyde and anthraldehyde thiosemicarbazone derivatives and their copper complexes to be used in interaction studies with biological systems. The objective was to evaluate the antileukemic activity of these compounds. Reactions of these ligands with Cu(II) salts produced unexpected oxidation products and the isolation of Cu(I) metal complexes. One ligand and its related Cu(I) complex, which is stable in physiological conditions, were subjected to in vitro biological tests (UV-Vis and CD titration). An important interaction with DNA and an affinity toward BSA were observed in FT-IR experiments. Preliminary in vitro biological tests against a histiocytic lymphoma cell line revealed an interestingly low IC50 value, i.e., 5.46 µM, for the Cu(I) complex.