bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiclass Segmentation of Concrete Surface Damages Using U-Net and DeepLabV3+
Authors: Hadinata Patrick Nicholas , Simanta Djoni , Eddy Liyanto , Nagai Kohei
Published: February 2023

Monitoring damage in concrete structures is crucial for maintaining the health of structural systems. The implementation of computer vision has been the key for providing accurate and quantitative monitoring. Recent development uses the robustness of deep-learning-aided computer vision, especially the convolutional neural network model. The convolutional neural network is not only accurate but also flexible in various scenarios. The convolutional neural network has been constructed to classify image in terms of individual pixel, namely pixel-level detection, which is especially useful in detecting and classifying damage in fine-grained detail. Moreover, in the real-world scenario, the scenes are mostly very complex with varying foreign objects other than concrete. Therefore, this study will focus on implementing a pixel-level convolutional neural network for concrete surface damage detection with complicated surrounding image settings. Since there are multiple types of damage on concrete surfaces, the convolutional neural network model will be trained to detect three types of damages, namely cracks, spallings, and voids. The training architecture will adopt U-Net and DeepLabV3+. Both models are compared using the evaluation metrics and the predicted results. The dataset used for the neural network training is self-built and contains multiple concrete damages and complex foregrounds on every image. To deal with overfitting, the dataset is augmented, and the models are regularized using L1 and Spatial dropout. U-Net slightly outperforms DeepLabV3+ with U-Net scores 0.7199 and 0.5993 on F1 and mIoU, respectively, while DeepLabV3+ scores 0.6478 and 0.5174 on F1 and mIoU, respectively. Given the complexity of the dataset and extensive image labeling, the neural network models achieved satisfactory results.
A Multilevel Monte Carlo Approach for a Stochastic Optimal Control Problem Based on the Gradient Projection Method
Authors: Ye Changlun , Luo Xianbing
Published: February 2023

A multilevel Monte Carlo (MLMC) method is applied to simulate a stochastic optimal problem based on the gradient projection method. In the numerical simulation of the stochastic optimal control problem, the approximation of expected value is involved, and the MLMC method is used to address it. The computational cost of the MLMC method and the convergence analysis of the MLMC gradient projection algorithm are presented. Two numerical examples are carried out to verify the effectiveness of our method.
Surface Microbial Contamination and Air Quality before and after Regular Cleaning Procedures
Authors: Mohammed Mohammed O. A.
Published: February 2023

Studies on indoor air quality (IAQ) have linked exposure to microorganisms in indoor air to a variety of illnesses. The association between indoor air quality, surface contamination, and IAQ under heterogeneous cleaning procedures are all crucial factors that were investigated in this study. The ATP bioluminescence test demonstrated a significant correlation (r = 0.89; p 0.05) with bacterial count obtained from swab specimens and a moderate correlation (r = 0.57; p 0.001) with viable settling bacterial count. For the entire sample (pre- and post-cleaning), the ATP values were heterogeneous, averaging 230 RLU/100 cm2, 140 RLU/100 cm2, 120 RLU/100 cm2, 135 RLU/100 cm2, 99 RLU/100 cm2, and 80 RLU/100 cm2, in offices, classrooms, toilet doorknobs, reception desks, main lobbies, and exit doorknobs, respectively. An insignificant association between indoor and outdoor PM2.5 (r = 0.21; p 0.05), an I/O ratio of PM2.5 with an average value of 1.2, and an I/O ratio of CO2 exceeding 1 suggest a minor impact of outdoor air. After cleaning, the bacterial and fungal counts on indoor surfaces showed significant reduction, suggesting that the cleaning procedures were effective. The concentrations of VOC but not HCHO in indoor air were significantly affected by cleaning, but not by temperature or relative humidity (RH). We propose ATP bioluminescence as a surrogate for detecting bacterial contamination rather than fungal contamination, which requires additional validation. We suggest that the results of active microbial sampling (in CFU/m3) and settling plates (in CFU/m2/h) be interpreted independently to avoid confusion.
Examining Seasonality Based on Probabilistic Properties of Extreme Precipitation Timing in the Eastern United States
Authors: Aljoda Ali , Dhakal Nirajan
Published: February 2023

Global warming is likely to provoke extreme storms in the eastern United States (eUS), ultimately affecting the probabilistic distribution of the dates of daily maximum precipitation. In this study, probabilistic properties of timing of annual maximum precipitation (AMP) were studied using circular statistics at 583 sites in the eUS (1950–2019). A kernel circular density method was applied to examine distributional modes of timing of AMP. The results of circular median show that seasonality is pronounced across the eUS with many locations having their median date of occurrence in summer, and AMP seasonality is strong in the East North Central region. Similarly, results of circular density method applied to the distribution of AMP timing shows that around 90% of the sites have two or three modes of AMP seasonality in the eUS. Comparison of seasonality between two historical records of equal length (1950–1984 and 1985–2019) shows great spatial variability across the eUS. Temporal changes in seasonal modes for AMP dates revealed four different cases of seasonality changes: (i) weakening of seasonality, (ii) strengthening of seasonality, (iii) strong seasonality for both the old and recent periods, (iv) or uniform or no preferred seasonality for both periods. While a spatial coherence of seasonality changes was not observed, majority of sites showed strong seasonality (case iii) for old and recent periods mainly during summer and fall seasons.
Aggregative Game for Distributed Charging Strategy of PEVs in a Smart Charging Station
Authors: Kang Ti , Li Huaqing , Zheng Lifeng
Published: February 2023

This paper proposes a charging strategy for plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) in a smart charging station (SCS) that considers load constraints and time anxieties. Due to the rapidly growing load demand of PEVs and the load capacity investments in infrastructure, PEV charging needs to be subject to overload limits, beyond which failures can occur. The time anxiety is presented to address some of the uncertainties that may arise while charging PEVs. Under an aggregative game framework, this paper constructs a price-driven charging model to minimize costs by choosing the optimal charging strategy. Meanwhile, since the driver information is an aggregated item in the PEV cost function, the drivers’ privacy can be protected. Then, a distributed reflected forward–backward (RFB) splitting method is developed to search for the generalized Nash equilibria (GNE) of the game. The convergence of the proposed algorithm and the effectiveness of the charging strategy are verified by the detailed simulation and results.
On the Radial Solutions of the Dirac Equation in the Kerr-Newman Black Hole Surrounded by a Cloud of Strings
Authors: Filho Saulo S. de Albuquerque , Bezerra Valdir Barbosa , Toledo Jefferson Morais
Published: February 2023

In this paper, we obtain the metric of the space-time generated by a charged and rotating gravitational body surrounded by a loud of strings, namely, the Kerr–Newman black hole space-time with the addition of a cloud of strings. In this background, we find the radial solutions of the Dirac equation for massive particles and show that they are given in terms of the Generalized Heun functions. The dependence of these solutions on the parameter that codifies the presence of the cloud of strings is pointed out.
A Green Supply Chain Member Selection Method Considering Green Innovation Capability in a Hesitant Fuzzy Environment
Authors: Su Jiafu , Xu Baojian , Li Lvcheng , Wang Dan , Zhang Fengting
Published: February 2023

The purpose of this paper is to propose an improved hesitation fuzzy multi-attribute decision-making method to realize green supply chain member selection under green innovation vision. The method uses hesitation fuzzy sets to express decision information of decision makers, takes green innovation capability as the evaluation perspective, and selects green innovation input, synergy of subjects in green supply chain, green innovation output capability, institutional innovation capability of enterprises in green supply chain, and green innovation sustainability as the indexes to evaluate the green innovation capability of enterprises. The multi-attribute decision method proposed in this paper takes into account the shortcomings of the original hesitant fuzzy multi-attribute decision method considering attribute weight optimization in the determination of attribute weights and scheme ranking, then proposes a three-point estimation method for scheme ranking and optimizes the attribute weights by quantifying the balance coefficients of the original decision method. Finally, an example is used to verify the rationality and effectiveness of the proposed method, and a comparison with the original method is made to highlight the advantages of this paper’s method. This paper provides a certain theoretical basis for the selection of members in green supply chains, which helps the selection of members in green supply chains and provides some insight for similar hesitant fuzzy multi-attribute decision-making problems in other fields. In future research, the method proposed in this paper can be considered to combine with probabilistic hesitant fuzzy sets and some other fuzzy sets for method extensions to solve multi-attribute decision-making problems.
A Class of Janowski-Type (p,q)-Convex Harmonic Functions Involving a Generalized q-Mittag–Leffler Function
Authors: Hadi Sarem H. , Darus Maslina , Alb Lupaş Alina
Published: February 2023

This research aims to present a linear operator Lp,qρ,σ,μf utilizing the q-Mittag–Leffler function. Then, we introduce the subclass of harmonic (p,q)-convex functions HTp,q(ϑ,W,V) related to the Janowski function. For the harmonic p-valent functions f class, we investigate the harmonic geometric properties, such as coefficient estimates, convex linear combination, extreme points, and Hadamard product. Finally, the closure property is derived using the subclass HTp,q(ϑ,W,V) under the q-Bernardi integral operator.
Bidimensional Deterministic Model for Diffusion and Settling of Particles
Authors: Velázquez Pérez Stephanie Esmeralda , Campos-Cantón Eric , Huerta Cuellar Guillermo , Gilardi Velázquez Héctor Eduardo
Published: February 2023

In this paper, we present a study of the diffusion properties of a deterministic model for settling particles in two displacement dimensions. The particularities of the novel deterministic model include the generation of Brownian motion and a two-dimensional displacement model without stochastic processes, which are governed by a set of six differential equations. This model is a piecewise system consisting of subsystems governed by jerk equations. With this model, we can consider different conditions of diffusion in both the dimensions and size of the space where the particles are dispersed. The settling time versus the dispersion medium and its size, as well as the average settling time and its probability distributions, are analyzed. Furthermore, the probability distributions for the settling location are presented for the changes in the diffusion parameters and space size. Finally, the basins of attraction for the settling positions are shown as a function of each dimensional diffusion parameter and for the medium size.
Optimization of Leakage Risk and Maintenance Cost for a Subsea Production System Based on Uncertain Fault Tree
Authors: Zhao Jianyin , Ma Liuying , Sun Yuan , Shan Xin , Liu Ying
Published: February 2023

Traditional fault tree analysis is an effective tool used to evaluate system risk if the required data are sufficient. Unfortunately, the operation and maintenance data of some complex systems are difficult to obtain due to economic or technical reasons. The solution is to invite experts to evaluate some critical aspect of the performance of the system. In this study, the belief degrees of the occurrence of basic events evaluated by experts are measured by an uncertain measure. Then, a system risk assessment method based on an uncertain fault tree is proposed, based on which two general optimization models are established. Furthermore, the genetic algorithm (GA) and the nondominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGA-II) are applied to solve the two optimization models, separately. In addition, the proposed risk assessment method is applied for the leakage risk evaluation of a subsea production system, and the two general optimization models are used to optimize the leakage risk and maintenance cost of the subsea production system. The optimization results provide a theoretical basis for practitioners to guarantee the safety of subsea production system.
A Mixture Autoregressive Model Based on an Asymmetric Exponential Power Distribution
Authors: Jiang Yunlu , Zhuang Zehong
Published: February 2023

In nonlinear time series analysis, the mixture autoregressive model (MAR) is an effective statistical tool to capture the multimodality of data. However, the traditional methods usually need to assume that the error follows a specific distribution that is not adaptive to the dataset. This paper proposes a mixture autoregressive model via an asymmetric exponential power distribution, which includes normal distribution, skew-normal distribution, generalized error distribution, Laplace distribution, asymmetric Laplace distribution, and uniform distribution as special cases. Therefore, the proposed method can be seen as a generalization of some existing model, which can adapt to unknown error structures to improve prediction accuracy, even in the case of fat tail and asymmetry. In addition, an expectation-maximization algorithm is applied to implement the proposed optimization problem. The finite sample performance of the proposed approach is illustrated via some numerical simulations. Finally, we apply the proposed methodology to analyze the daily return series of the Hong Kong Hang Seng Index. The results indicate that the proposed method is more robust and adaptive to the error distributions than other existing methods.
PSEV-BF Methodology for Object Recognition of Birds in Uncontrolled Environments
Authors: Hernández-González Lucía , Frausto-Solís Juan , González-Barbosa Juan , Sánchez-Hernández Juan , Hernández-Rabadán Deny , Román-Rangel Edgar
Published: February 2023

Computer vision methodologies using machine learning techniques usually consist of the following phases: pre-processing, segmentation, feature extraction, selection of relevant variables, classification, and evaluation. In this work, a methodology for object recognition is proposed. The methodology is called PSEV-BF (pre-segmentation and enhanced variables for bird features). PSEV-BF includes two new phases compared to the traditional computer vision methodologies, namely: pre-segmentation and enhancement of variables. Pre-segmentation is performed using the third version of YOLO (you only look once), a convolutional neural network (CNN) architecture designed for object detection. Additionally, a simulated annealing (SA) algorithm is proposed for the selection and enhancement of relevant variables. To test PSEV-BF, the repository commons object in Context (COCO) was used with images exhibiting uncontrolled environments. Finally, the APIoU metric (average precision intersection over union) is used as an evaluation benchmark to compare our methodology with standard configurations. The results show that PSEV-BF has the highest performance in all tests.
The Art of the Masses: Overviews on the Collective Visual Heritage through Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Rosado-Rodrigo Pilar , Reverter Ferran
Published: February 2023

In the context of a society saturated in images, convolutional neural networks (CNNs), pre-trained using from the visual information contained in many thousands of images, constitute a tool that is of great use in helping us to organize the visual heritage, thus offering a route of entry that would otherwise be impossible. One of the responsibilities of the contemporary artist is to adopt a position that will help to provide sense, to project meaning onto the accumulation of images that we are faced with. The artificial neuronal network ResNet-50 has been used in order to extract the visual characteristics of large sets of images from the internet. Textual searches have been carried out on social issues such as climate change, the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrations around the world, and manifestations of popular culture, and the image descriptors obtained have been the input for the algorithm t-SNE. In this way, we produce large visual maps composed of thousands of images and arranged following the criteria of formal similitude, displaying the visual patterns of the archetypes of specific semantic categories. The method of filing and recovering our collective memory must have a correlation with the technological and scientific advances of our time, in order for us to progressively discover new horizons of knowledge.
Electrospun Poly(L-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) Scaffold Potentiates C2C12 Myoblast Bioactivity and Acts as a Stimulus for Cell Commitment in Skeletal Muscle Myogenesis
Authors: Pacilio Serafina , Costa Roberta , Papa Valentina , Rodia Maria Teresa , Gotti Carlo , Pagnotta Giorgia , Cenacchi Giovanna , Focarete Maria Letizia
Published: February 2023

Tissue engineering combines a scaffold, cells and regulatory signals, reproducing a biomimetic extracellular matrix capable of supporting cell attachment and proliferation. We examined the role of an electrospun scaffold made of a biocompatible polymer during the myogenesis of skeletal muscle (SKM) as an alternative approach to tissue regeneration. The engineered nanostructure was obtained by electrospinning poly(L-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) (PLCL) in the form of a 3D porous nanofibrous scaffold further coated with collagen. C2C12 were cultured on the PLCL scaffold, and cell morphology and differentiation pathways were thoroughly investigated. The functionalized PLCL scaffold recreated the SKM nanostructure and performed its biological functions, guiding myoblast morphogenesis and promoting cell differentiation until tissue formation. The scaffold enabled cell–cell interactions through the development of cellular adhesions that were fundamental during myoblast fusion and myotube formation. Expression of myogenic regulatory markers and muscle-specific proteins at different stages of myogenesis suggested that the PLCL scaffold enhanced myoblast differentiation within a shorter time frame. The functionalized PLCL scaffold impacts myoblast bioactivity and acts as a stimulus for cell commitment, surpassing traditional 2D cell culture techniques. We developed a screening model for tissue development and a device for tissue restoration.
Home Spirometry in Children with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Berlinski Ariel , Leisenring Pamela , Willis Lauren , King Sandra
Published: February 2023

We report the implementation of a pediatric home spirometry program at our institution. A respiratory therapist provided either a virtual or an in-person initiation visit that included a coached spirometry session. Families were instructed to perform daily uncoached spirometry sessions for 5 days. The program’s quality assurance component was deemed not to be human research by the local IRB. In total, 52 subjects completed an initiation visit (34 with at least 3 additional uncoached spirometry sessions). The clinic spirometry and coached (same-day) sessions and uncoached (same-week) sessions were completed by 12 and 17 subjects, respectively. The median (99% CI) coefficients of variation for FEV1% of the uncoached maneuvers were 3.5% (2.9–5.9%). The median (IQR) FEV1% and FEV1 (mL) absolute differences between coached and uncoached home spirometry were −2% (−4 and +3%) and −25 mL (−93 and +93 mL), respectively. The median (IQR) absolute differences in FEV1% and FEV1 (mL) between coached or uncoached home spirometry and clinic spirometry were −6% (−10 and −2%) and −155 mL (−275 and −88 mL), and −4% (−10 and +5%), and −110 mL (−280 and +9 mL), respectively. Differences in absolute FEV1 (L) and FEV1% were found among different modalities of spirometry performed by people with cystic fibrosis. Understanding the variability of uncoached home spirometry and the differences among coached and uncoached home spirometry, hospital and coached home spirometry, and hospital and uncoached home spirometry for any given individual is crucial to effectively utilize this tool in clinical care.
Correction: Babault et al. Usefulness of Surface Electromyography Complexity Analyses to Assess the Effects of Warm-Up and Stretching during Maximal and Sub-Maximal Hamstring Contractions: A Cross-Over, Randomized, Single-Blind Trial. Biology 2022, 11, 1337
Authors: Babault Nicolas , Hitier Marion , Cometti Carole
Published: February 2023

There was an error in the original publication [...]
Picks in the Fabric of a Polyploidy Complex: Integrative Species Delimitation in the Tetraploid Leucanthemum Mill. (Compositae, Anthemideae) Representatives
Authors: Oberprieler Christoph , Ott Tankred , Vogt Robert
Published: February 2023

Based on the results of a preceding species-delimitation analysis for the diploid representatives of the genus Leucanthemum (Compositae, Anthemideae), the present study aims at the elaboration of a specific and subspecific taxonomic treatment of the tetraploid members of the genus. Following an integrative taxonomic approach, species-level decisions on eight predefined morphotaxon hypotheses were based on genetic/genealogical, morphological, ecological, and geographical differentiation patterns. ddRADseq fingerprinting and SNP-based clustering revealed genetic integrity for six of the eight morphotaxa, with no clear differentiation patterns observed between the widespread L. ircutianum subsp. ircutianum and the N Spanish (Cordillera Cantábrica) L. cantabricum and the S French L. delarbrei subsp. delabrei (northern Massif Central) and L. meridionale (western Massif Central). The inclusion of differentiation patterns in morphological (leaf dissection and shape), ecological (climatological and edaphic niches), and geographical respects (pair-wise tests of sympatry vs. allopatry) together with the application of a procedural protocol for species-rank decisions (the ‘Wettstein tesseract’) led to the proposal of an acknowledgement of the eight predefined morphotaxon hypotheses as six species (two of them with two subspecies). Nomenclatural consequences following from these results are drawn and lead to the following new combinations: Leucanthemum delarbrei subsp. meridionale (Legrand) Oberpr., T.Ott & Vogt, comb. nov. and Leucanthemum ruscinonense (Jeanb. & Timb.-Lagr.) Oberpr., T.Ott & Vogt, comb. et stat. nov.
A Comprehensive Review of Mammalian Pigmentation: Paving the Way for Innovative Hair Colour-Changing Cosmetics
Authors: Fernandes Bruno , Cavaco-Paulo Artur , Matamá Teresa
Published: February 2023

The natural colour of hair shafts is formed at the bulb of hair follicles, and it is coupled to the hair growth cycle. Three critical processes must happen for efficient pigmentation: (1) melanosome biogenesis in neural crest-derived melanocytes, (2) the biochemical synthesis of melanins (melanogenesis) inside melanosomes, and (3) the transfer of melanin granules to surrounding pre-cortical keratinocytes for their incorporation into nascent hair fibres. All these steps are under complex genetic control. The array of natural hair colour shades are ascribed to polymorphisms in several pigmentary genes. A myriad of factors acting via autocrine, paracrine, and endocrine mechanisms also contributes for hair colour diversity. Given the enormous social and cosmetic importance attributed to hair colour, hair dyeing is today a common practice. Nonetheless, the adverse effects of the long-term usage of such cosmetic procedures demand the development of new methods for colour change. In this context, case reports of hair lightening, darkening and repigmentation as a side-effect of the therapeutic usage of many drugs substantiate the possibility to tune hair colour by interfering with the biology of follicular pigmentary units. By scrutinizing mammalian pigmentation, this review pinpoints key targetable processes for the development of innovative cosmetics that can safely change the hair colour from the inside out.
Limited N-Glycan Processing Impacts Chaperone Expression Patterns, Cell Growth and Cell Invasiveness in Neuroblastoma
Authors: Hall M. Kristen , Shajahan Asif , Burch Adam P. , Hatchett Cody J. , Azadi Parastoo , Schwalbe Ruth A.
Published: February 2023

Enhanced N-glycan branching is associated with cancer, but recent investigations supported the involvement of less processed N-glycans. Herein, we investigated how changes in N-glycosylation influence cellular properties in neuroblastoma (NB) using rat N-glycan mutant cell lines, NB_1(-Mgat1), NB_1(-Mgat2) and NB_1(-Mgat3), as well as the parental cell line NB_1. The two earlier mutant cells have compromised N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase-I (GnT-I) and GnT-II activities. Lectin blotting showed that NB_1(-Mgat3) cells had decreased activity of GnT-III compared to NB_1. ESI-MS profiles identified N-glycan structures in NB cells, supporting genetic edits. NB_1(-Mgat1) had the most oligomannose N-glycans and the greatest cell invasiveness, while NB_1(-Mgat2) had the fewest and least cell invasiveness. The proliferation rate of NB_1 was slightly slower than NB_1(-Mgat3), but faster than NB_1(-Mgat1) and NB_1(-Mgat2). Faster proliferation rates were due to the faster progression of those cells through the G1 phase of the cell cycle. Further higher levels of oligomannose with 6–9 Man residues indicated faster proliferating cells. Human NB cells with higher oligomannose N-glycans were more invasive and had slower proliferation rates. Both rat and human NB cells revealed modified levels of ER chaperones. Thus, our results support a role of oligomannose N-glycans in NB progression; furthermore, perturbations in the N-glycosylation pathway can impact chaperone systems.
Biogeographical Relationships and Diversity in the Peruvian Flora Reported by Hipólito Ruiz and José Pavón: Vegetation, Uses and Anthropology
Authors: Arias-Gámez Juan Miguel , Linares-Perea Eliana , Vicente-Orellana José Alfredo , Galán-de-Mera Antonio
Published: February 2023

The Royal Spanish Botanical Expedition to the Viceroyalty of Peru in the 18th century was one of the most important European expeditions to American territories. Using the herbarium sheets of Ruiz and Pavón (Royal Botanical Garden of Madrid) and their edited works, manuscripts and expedition diaries, we have constructed a database of the collected and observed flora, which has served as the basis for a map containing all of the Peruvian localities of the expedition. Based on the method of bioclimatic belts and our own observations, we have deduced to which type of vegetation the flora studied in the expedition belongs. The uses of the flora per locality were studied, as well as the ethnic groups involved in the different localities. By using a Principal Component Analysis, we have obtained the distribution of the bioclimatic belts whose vegetation was the most explored. In order to observe the bioclimatic tendency of plant uses, a Detrended Correspondence Analysis (DCA) was conducted to identify the distribution of localities with the highest frequencies of plant uses. The expedition’s explorations focused on the most humid areas of the thermo- and mesotropical belts, from where a large number of plants with practical uses were obtained.
Sarcopenia Is Associated with an Increased Risk of Postoperative Complications Following Total Hip Arthroplasty for Osteoarthritis
Authors: Chang Kenny , Albright J. Alex , Testa Edward J. , Balboni Alanna B. , Daniels Alan H. , Cohen Eric
Published: February 2023

Sarcopenia is a state of catabolic muscle wasting prevalent in geriatric patients. Likewise, osteoarthritis is an age-related musculoskeletal disease affecting patients with similar demographics. Late-stage hip osteoarthritis is often treated with total hip arthroplasty (THA). As sarcopenia influences the surgical outcomes, this study aimed to assess the impact of sarcopenia on the outcomes of THA. A 1:3 matched case–control study of sarcopenic to control patients was performed using a large national database. In total, 3992 patients were analyzed. Sarcopenic patients undergoing THA were more likely to experience dislocation (odds ratio (OR) = 2.19, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.21–3.91) within 1 year of THA. Furthermore, sarcopenic patients had higher urinary tract infection rates (OR = 1.79, CI 1.32–2.42) and a greater risk of 90-day hospital readmission (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.39, CI 1.10–1.77). Sarcopenic patients experienced more falls (OR = 1.62, CI 1.10–2.39) and fragility fractures (OR = 1.77, CI 1.34–2.31). Similarly, sarcopenic patients had higher day of surgery costs (USD 13,534 vs. USD 10,504) and 90-day costs (USD 17,139 vs. USD 13,394) compared with the controls. Ultimately, sarcopenic patients undergoing THA experience higher rates of postoperative complications and incur greater medical costs. Given the potential risks, orthopedic surgeons may consider treating or reducing the severity of sarcopenia before surgery.
Effects of the Density of Invasive Lantana camara Plants on the Biodiversity of Large and Small Mammals in the Groenkloof Nature Reserve (GNR) in South Africa
Authors: Raphela Tlou D. , Duffy Kevin J.
Published: February 2023

Multi-scale approaches have been used to determine scales at which mammal species are responding to habitat destruction due to invasion, but the impacts of weeds on mammals have not been extensively studied, especially in Africa. Inside the Groenkloof Nature Reserve (GNR), we assessed how mammals are affected by an invasive weed Lantana camara. A series of models were applied to determine the differences in species abundance as well as richness, separated for large and small mammals. When diversity indices were used, an Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) revealed no statistically significant difference between treatments (F5 = 0.233, p = 0.945) for large mammals. The results of a Generalised Linear Mixed Model (GLMM) showed that vegetation type (Wald χ22 = 120.156; p < 0.01) and foraging guilds (Wald χ23 = 76.771; p < 0.01) were significant predictors of large mammal species richness. However, for small mammals, the results of a GLMM showed that only treatment type (Wald χ25 = 10.62; p = 0.050) was a significant predictor of the number of small mammals trapped. In addition, the ANOVA revealed statistically significant differences in species diversity between treatments (F5 = 0.934; p < 0.001) and by season (F1 = 9.122 p = 0.003) for small mammals. The presence of L. camara coupled with other predictors was associated with differences in large mammal abundances and diversity, and differences in how these large mammals were distributed across the landscape. Furthermore, the highest species diversity was found in the spring for small mammals. Therefore, for all the mammals studied, the presence of L. camara negatively affected species abundance, richness, and diversity, as well as how these species were distributed across the invaded and cleared areas.
Regulation of T Cell Activation and Metabolism by Transforming Growth Factor-Beta
Authors: Salmond Robert J.
Published: February 2023

Transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) receptor signalling regulates T cell development, differentiation and effector function. Expression of the immune-associated isoform of this cytokine, TGFβ1, is absolutely required for the maintenance of immunological tolerance in both mice and humans, whilst context-dependent TGFβ1 signalling regulates the differentiation of both anti- and pro-inflammatory T cell effector populations. Thus, distinct TGFβ-dependent T cell responses are implicated in the suppression or initiation of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. In cancer settings, TGFβ signals contribute to the blockade of anti-tumour immune responses and disease progression. Given the key functions of TGFβ in the regulation of immune responses and the potential for therapeutic targeting of TGFβ-dependent pathways, the mechanisms underpinning these pleiotropic effects have been the subject of much investigation. This review focuses on accumulating evidence suggesting that modulation of T cell metabolism represents a major mechanism by which TGFβ influences T cell immunity.
The Role of MMPs in the Era of CFTR Modulators: An Additional Target for Cystic Fibrosis Patients?
Authors: Esposito Renata , Mirra Davida , Spaziano Giuseppe , Panico Francesca , Gallelli Luca , D’Agostino Bruno
Published: February 2023

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a high-prevalence disease characterized by significant lung remodeling, responsible for high morbidity and mortality worldwide. The lung structural changes are partly due to proteolytic activity associated with inflammatory cells such as neutrophils and macrophages. Matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) are the major proteases involved in CF, and recent literature data focused on their potential role in the pathogenesis of the disease. In fact, an imbalance of proteases and antiproteases was observed in CF patients, resulting in dysfunction of protease activity and loss of lung homeostasis. Currently, many steps forward have been moved in the field of pharmacological treatment with the recent introduction of triple-combination therapy targeting the CFTR channel. Despite CFTR modulator therapy potentially being effective in up to 90% of patients with CF, there are still patients who are not eligible for the available therapies. Here, we introduce experimental drugs to provide updates on therapy evolution regarding a proportion of CF non-responder patients to current treatment, and we summarize the role of MMPs in pathogenesis and as future therapeutic targets of CF.
Proton Migration on Top of Charged Membranes
Authors: Weichselbaum Ewald , Galimzyanov Timur , Batishchev Oleg V. , Akimov Sergey A. , Pohl Peter
Published: February 2023

Proton relay between interfacial water molecules allows rapid two-dimensional diffusion. An energy barrier, ΔGr‡, opposes proton-surface-to-bulk release. The ΔGr‡-regulating mechanism thus far has remained unknown. Here, we explored the effect interfacial charges have on ΔGr‡’s enthalpic and entropic constituents, ΔGH‡ and ΔGS‡, respectively. A light flash illuminating a micrometer-sized membrane patch of a free-standing planar lipid bilayer released protons from an adsorbed hydrophobic caged compound. A lipid-anchored pH-sensitive dye reported protons’ arrival at a distant membrane patch. Introducing net-negative charges to the bilayer doubled ΔGH‡, while positive net charges decreased ΔGH‡. The accompanying variations in ΔGS‡ compensated for the ΔGH‡ modifications so that ΔGr‡ was nearly constant. The increase in the entropic component of the barrier is most likely due to the lower number and strength of hydrogen bonds known to be formed by positively charged residues as compared to negatively charged moieties. The resulting high ΔGr‡ ensured interfacial proton diffusion for all measured membranes. The observation indicates that the variation in membrane surface charge alone is a poor regulator of proton traffic along the membrane surface.
In Vivo Protein–Protein Binding Competition Assay Based on Split-GFP Reassembly: Proof of Concept
Authors: Bignon Christophe , Longhi Sonia
Published: February 2023

The split-green fluorescent protein (GFP) reassembly assay is a well-established approach to study protein–protein interactions (PPIs). In this assay, when two interacting proteins X and Y, respectively fused to residues 1–157 and to residues 158–237 of GFP, are co-expressed in E. coli, the two GFP halves are brought to sufficient proximity to reassociate and fold to recreate the functional GFP. At constant protein expression level, the intensity of fluorescence produced by the bacteria is proportional to the binding affinity of X to Y. We hypothesized that adding a third partner (Z) endowed with an affinity for either X or Y would lead to an in vivo competition assay. We report here the different steps of the set-up of this competition assay, and define the experimental conditions required to obtained reliable results. Results show that this competition assay is a potentially interesting tool for screening libraries of binding inhibitors, Z being either a protein or a chemical reagent.
Systematic Assessment of Protein C-Termini Mutated in Human Disorders
Authors: FitzHugh Zachary T. , Schiller Martin R.
Published: February 2023

All proteins have a carboxyl terminus, and we previously summarized eight mutations in binding and trafficking sequence determinants in the C-terminus that, when disrupted, cause human diseases. These sequence elements for binding and trafficking sites, as well as post-translational modifications (PTMs), are called minimotifs or short linear motifs. We wanted to determine how frequently mutations in minimotifs in the C-terminus cause disease. We searched specifically for PTMs because mutation of a modified amino acid almost always changes the chemistry of the side chain and can be interpreted as loss-of-function. We analyzed data from ClinVar for disease variants, Minimotif Miner and the C-terminome for PTMs, and RefSeq for protein sequences, yielding 20 such potential disease-causing variants. After additional screening, they include six with a previously reported PTM disruption mechanism and nine with new hypotheses for mutated minimotifs in C-termini that may cause disease. These mutations were generally for different genes, with four different PTM types and several different diseases. Our study helps to identify new molecular mechanisms for nine separate variants that cause disease, and this type of analysis could be extended as databases grow and to binding and trafficking motifs. We conclude that mutated motifs in C-termini are an infrequent cause of disease.
Targeting of the Interleukin-13 Receptor (IL-13R)α2 Expressing Prostate Cancer by a Novel Hybrid Lytic Peptide
Authors: Jannoo Riaz , Xia Zhidao , Row Paula E. , Kanamarlapudi Venkateswarlu
Published: February 2023

The IL-13Rα2 cell surface receptor is highly expressed in tumours such as prostate cancer. In this report, we evaluated the hypothesis that prostate cancer cells with enhanced IL-13Rα2 expression are a suitable target for the hybrid lytic peptide (Pep-1-Phor21) peptide, which is generated by fusing the IL-13Rα2 specific ligand (Pep-1) and a cell membrane disrupting lytic peptide (Phor21). The expression of IL-13Rα2 mRNA and protein in prostate cancer tissues and cell lines was assessed via real-time PCR (RT-PCR) and immunoblotting. The effect of Pep-1-Phor21 on the viability of prostate cancer cells grown in monolayers (2D) and microtissue spheroids (3D) was assessed via CellTox green cytotoxic assay. IL-13Rα2 expression and Pep-1-Phor21-mediated killing were also determined in the cells treated with epigenetic regulators (Trichostatin A (TSA) and 5-aza-2 deoxycytidine (5-Aza-dC)). The hybrid lytic peptide cytotoxic activity correlated with the expression of IL-13Rα2 in prostate cancer cell lines cultured as monolayers (2D) or 3D spheroids. In addition, TSA or 5-Aza-dC treatment of prostate cancer cells, particularly those with low expression of IL-13Rα2, enhanced the cells’ sensitivity to the lytic peptide by increasing IL-13Rα2 expression. These results demonstrate that the Pep-1-Phor21 hybrid lytic peptide has potent and selective anticancer properties against IL-13Rα2-expressing prostate cancer cells.
Genetic Variants of ISL1 Gene Promoter Identified from Congenital Tetralogy of Fallot Patients Alter Cellular Function Forming Disease Basis
Authors: Yin Xiu-Yun , Chen Huan-Xin , Chen Zhuo , Yang Qin , Han Jun , He Guo-Wei
Published: February 2023

Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) is the most common cyanotic congenital heart disease in newborns. ISL1 is a master transcription factor in second heart field development, whereas the roles of ISL1 gene promoter variants in TOF patients have not been genetically investigated. Total DNA extraction from 601 human subjects, including 308 TOF patients and 293 healthy controls, and Sanger sequencing were performed. Four variants (including one novel heterozygous variant) within the ISL1 gene promoter were only found in TOF patients. Functional analysis of DNA sequence variants was performed by using the dual-luciferase reporter assay and demonstrated that three of the four variants significantly decreased the transcriptional activity of ISL1 gene promoter in HL-1 cells (p < 0.05). Further, the online JASPAR database and electrophoretic mobility shift assay showed that the three variants affected the binding of transcription factors and altered ISL1 expression levels. In conclusion, the current study for the first time demonstrated that the variants identified from the ISL1 gene promoter region are likely involved in the development of TOF by affecting the transcriptional activity and altering the ISL1 expression level. Therefore, these findings may provide new insights into the molecular etiology and potential therapeutic strategy of TOF.
Low-Molecular-Weight β-1,3-1,6-Glucan Derived from Aureobasidium pullulans Exhibits Anticancer Activity by Inducing Apoptosis in Colorectal Cancer Cells
Authors: Kim Ji Hyeon , Seo Jeonghyeon , No Huiwon , Kuge Takao , Mori Takahiro , Kimoto Hisashi , Kim Jin-Kyung
Published: February 2023

β-glucan, a plant polysaccharide, mainly exists in plant cell walls of oats, barley, and wheat. It is attracting attention due to its high potential for use as functional foods and pharmaceuticals. We have previously reported that low-molecular-weight Aureobasidium pullulans-fermented β-D-glucan (LMW-AP-FBG) could inhibit inflammatory responses by inhibiting mitogen-activated protein kinases and nuclear factor-κB signaling pathways. Bases on previous results, the objective of the present study was to investigate the therapeutic potential of LMW-AP-FBG in BALB/c mice intracutaneously transplanted with CT-26 colon cancer cells onto their backs. Daily intraperitoneal injections of LMW-AP-FBG (5 mg/kg) for two weeks significantly suppressed tumor growth in mice bearing CT-26 tumors by reducing tumor proliferation and inducing apoptosis as compared to phosphate buffer-treated control mice. In addition, LMW-AP-FBG treatment reduced the viability of CT-26 cells in a dose-dependent manner by inducing apoptosis with loss of mitochondrial transmembrane potential and increased activated caspases. Taken together, LMW-AP-FBG exhibits anticancer properties both in vivo and in vitro.
Blood ACE Phenotyping for Personalized Medicine: Revelation of Patients with Conformationally Altered ACE
Authors: Danilov Sergei M. , Jain Mark S. , A. Petukhov Pavel , Kurilova Olga V. , Ilinsky Valery V. , Trakhtman Pavel E. , Dadali Elena L. , Samokhodskaya Larisa M. , Kamalov Armais A. , Kost Olga A.
Published: February 2023

Background: The angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) metabolizes a number of important peptides participating in blood pressure regulation and vascular remodeling. Elevated blood ACE is a marker for granulomatous diseases and elevated ACE expression in tissues is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Objective and Methodology: We applied a novel approach —ACE phenotyping—to find a reason for conformationally impaired ACE in the blood of one particular donor. Similar conformationally altered ACEs were detected previously in 2–4% of the healthy population and in up to 20% of patients with uremia, and were characterized by significant increase in the rate of angiotensin I hydrolysis. Principal findings: This donor has (1) significantly increased level of endogenous ACE inhibitor in plasma with MW less than 1000; (2) increased activity toward angiotensin I; (3) M71V mutation in ABCG2 (membrane transporter for more than 200 compounds, including bilirubin). We hypothesize that this patient may also have the decreased level of free bilirubin in plasma, which normally binds to the N domain of ACE. Analysis of the local conformation of ACE in plasma of patients with Gilbert and Crigler-Najjar syndromes allowed us to speculate that binding of mAbs 1G12 and 6A12 to plasma ACE could be a natural sensor for estimation of free bilirubin level in plasma. Totally, 235 human plasma/sera samples were screened for conformational changes in soluble ACE. Conclusions/Significance: ACE phenotyping of plasma samples allows us to identify individuals with conformationally altered ACE. This type of screening has clinical significance because this conformationally altered ACE could not only result in the enhancement of the level of angiotensin II but could also serve as an indicator of free bilirubin levels.
Bridging the Finger-Action Gap between Hand Patients and Healthy People in Daily Life with a Biomimetic System
Authors: Chen Jong-Chen
Published: February 2023

The hand is involved very deeply in our lives in daily activities. When a person loses some hand function, their life can be greatly affected. The use of robotic rehabilitation to assist patients in performing daily actions might help alleviate this problem. However, how to meet individual needs is a major problem in the application of robotic rehabilitation. A biomimetic system (artificial neuromolecular system, ANM) implemented on a digital machine is proposed to deal with the above problems. Two important biological features (structure–function relationship and evolutionary friendliness) are incorporated into this system. With these two important features, the ANM system can be shaped to meet the specific needs of each individual. In this study, the ANM system is used to help patients with different needs perform 8 actions similar to those that people use in everyday life. The data source of this study is our previous research results (data of 30 healthy people and 4 hand patients performing 8 activities of daily life). The results show that while each patient’s hand problem is different, the ANM can successfully translate each patient’s hand posture into normal human motion. In addition, the system can respond to this difference smoothly rather than dramatically when the patient’s hand motions vary both temporally (finger motion sequence) and spatially (finger curvature).
Iron Sequestration by Galloyl–Silane Nano Coatings Inhibits Biofilm Formation of Sulfitobacter sp.
Authors: Messersmith Reid E. , Sage F. Connor , Johnson James K. , Langevin Spencer A. , Forsyth Ellen R. , Hart Meaghan T. , Hoffman Christopher M.
Published: February 2023

Microbially-induced corrosion is the acceleration of corrosion induced by bacterial biofilms. The bacteria in the biofilms oxidize metals on the surface, especially evident with iron, to drive metabolic activity and reduce inorganic species such as nitrates and sulfates. Coatings that prevent the formation of these corrosion-inducing biofilms significantly increase the service life of submerged materials and significantly decrease maintenance costs. One species in particular, a member of the Roseobacter clade, Sulfitobacter sp., has demonstrated iron-dependent biofilm formation in marine environments. We have found that compounds that contain the galloyl moiety can prevent Sulfitobacter sp. biofilm formation by sequestering iron, thus making a surface unappealing for bacteria. Herein, we have fabricated surfaces with exposed galloyl groups to test the effectiveness of nutrient reduction in iron-rich media as a non-toxic method to reduce biofilm formation.