bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attitudes Toward and Susceptibility to Doping in Spanish Elite and National-Standard Track and Field Athletes: An Examination of the Sport Drug Control Model
Authors: García-Grimau Elena , De la Vega Ricardo , De Arce Rafael , Casado Arturo
Published: June 2021

The Sport Drug Control Model (SDCM) is likely to be the model which most explicitly represents the theoretical paradigm of the psychological study of the use of doping in sport. This model can be further developed through its analysis in different populations and cultures. The main aim of this study was to empirically test the SDCM while analyzing for the first time the intentions and attitudes toward doping in Spanish track and field athletes. A secondary aim was to assess the extent to which the variables in the model together predict attitude, susceptibility, and behavior toward the use of performance-enhancing substances. Participants were 281 Spanish elite and national-standard track and field athletes from whom 80.1% were 18-28 years old and 49.5% were females. Participants completed the SDCM questionnaire measuring morality, legitimacy, benefits appraisal, threat appraisal, self-efficacy to refrain from doping, reference groups' endorsement of doping methods/substances, use of legal supplements, availability and affordability of doping, attitudes toward doping, susceptibility to doping and, self-reported use of banned performance-enhancing substances or methods. Structural equation modeling supported a good fitness of the SDCM and confirmed that positive attitudes toward doping predicted high susceptibility to doping (β = 0.55, p < 0.001), which is in turn associated with the use of prohibited substances and methods (β = 0.12, p < 0.05). The factors that have most influence on attitudes toward doping are morality (β = 0.46, p < 0.001) and reference group opinion (β =0.62, p <0.001). Self-reported doping use was 9.6%. These findings confirm SDCM reproducibility and variability (as it accounts for several variables) in Spanish track and field competitive athletes. It is recommended to implement preventive programs which allow athletes to acquire a strong moral stance against doping and coaches to employ the tools required to instill and educate their athletes in rejecting these illegal practices that corrupt the integrity of competitive sport.
REM Sleep EEG Activity and Clinical Correlates in Adults With Autism
Authors: Gagnon Katia , Bolduc Christianne , Bastien Laurianne , Godbout Roger
Published: June 2021

We tested the hypothesis of an atypical scalp distribution of electroencephalography (EEG) activity during Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep in young autistic adults. EEG spectral activity and ratios along the anteroposterior axis and across hemispheres were compared in 16 neurotypical (NT) young adults and 17 individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). EEG spectral power was lower in the ASD group over the bilateral central and right parietal (beta activity) as well as bilateral occipital (beta, theta, and total activity) recording sites. The NT group displayed a significant posterior polarity of intra-hemispheric EEG activity while EEG activity was more evenly or anteriorly distributed in ASD participants. No significant inter-hemispheric EEG lateralization was found. Correlations between EEG distribution and ASD symptoms using the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) showed that a higher posterior ratio was associated with a better ADI-R score on communication skills, whereas a higher anterior ratio was related to more restricted interests and repetitive behaviors. EEG activity thus appears to be atypically distributed over the scalp surface in young adults with autism during REM sleep within cerebral hemispheres, and this correlates with some ASD symptoms. These suggests the existence in autism of a common substrate between some of the symptoms of ASD and an atypical organization and/or functioning of the thalamo-cortical loop during REM sleep.
What is Vitiligo and How Can it Teach Us a Crucial Life Lesson?
Authors: Leonard Nicholas , Richmond Jillian M.
Published: June 2021

So, what is vitiligo? Vitiligo is a condition in which people lose the cells in the skin that give it color. These cells are called melanocytes. Vitiligo leaves affected individuals with white spots scattered across their skin. This article includes background information on skin structure. It then explores the causes and treatment of vitiligo. Finally, we discuss the impact vitiligo can have on mental health.
Community Veterinary Medicine Programs: Pet Owners' Perceptions and Experiences
Authors: Kogan Lori R. , Accornero Veronica H. , Gelb Emily , Slater Margaret R.
Published: June 2021

Many American pet owners struggle financially, and the COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated this problem. Yet, the positive effects that companion animals have in people's lives create the need for supportive systems to ensure that financial limitations, and other barriers, do not preclude pet ownership. To help address these barriers, and reach underserved communities, various forms of community-based veterinary medicine programs have been developed across the country. This study assesses two community-based veterinary programs in North Carolina, USA. In addition to perceptions surrounding veterinary services, this study paid specific attention to communication and respect; two additional elements needed for successful community-based veterinary programs. Surveys were given to clients accessing Asheville Humane Society (AHS) mobile veterinary care clinic and Asheville Humane Society (AHS) Affordable Pet Care Clinic. Results of the anonymous survey indicate that the majority of clients had positive veterinary care experiences in terms of both veterinary services and client communication. In conclusion, low-cost or free community veterinary programs—with effective communication, empathy, and cultural competence—can help open the door to future positive veterinary experiences for disadvantaged pet owners.
Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria as Bioinoculants: Attributes and Challenges for Sustainable Crop Improvement
Authors: Orozco-Mosqueda Ma. del Carmen , Flores Aurora , Rojas-Sánchez Blanca , Urtis-Flores Carlos A. , Morales-Cedeño Luzmaria R. , Valencia-Marin María F. , Chávez-Avila Salvador , Rojas-Solis Daniel , Santoyo Gustavo
Published: June 2021

Plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) are excellent biocontrol agents and stimulators of plant growth, nutrition, and production. Therefore, these plant-associated bacteria are considered an excellent alternative to reduce or eliminate the use of toxic agrochemicals. In this work, we review the current state of the beneficial mechanisms (direct and indirect), including the production of antibiotic compounds and enzymes, facilitation of resource acquisition, or production of stimulating phytohormones/metabolites. Some aspects of the formulation technology and bioinoculant efficiency of diverse PGPBs (e.g., rhizobacteria, phyllobacteria and endophytic bacteria) in the field are also discussed. However, the commercialization and application of these biological agents in agriculture occur mainly in developed countries, limiting their success in developing regions. The possible causes of the delay in the application of bioinoculants for sustainable agriculture and the plausible solutions are also discussed in this study. Finally, the use of PGPBs is currently a priority for sustainable production in agriculture.
Responses of Peppermint and Spearmint Crops to Excessive Biostimulant Application and Increased Salinity in a Closed Soilless Production System
Authors: Kasampalis Dimitrios S. , Aktsoglou Danai-Christina , Tsouvaltzis Pavlos , Siomos Anastasios S.
Published: June 2021

A floating system was established in a heated glass greenhouse in order to investigate whether the effect of amino acids (0.25 or 0.50% of a commercial amino acid (AA) solution Amino16®) during peppermint and spearmint production on plant developmental and nutritional status may be in part attributed to salinity induced osmotic stress. For this reason, in some nutrient solutions, three levels of salinity were induced by adding 0, 10, or 20 mM NaCl. According to the results, it can be concluded that spearmint is mostly favored by the highest amino acid supplement of the nutrient solution (0.50%) in terms of a substantial improvement of the antioxidant nutritional quality (by up to 130%) at the expense of a reduced biomass production (by <30%). Enzymic antioxidant defense mechanism (APX and POD) was efficiently activated, preventing severe lipid peroxidation and the accumulation of reactive oxygen species such as H2O2 and maintaining the proline content at the normal levels. The osmotic stress that was induced by the excessive AA concentration and confirmed by the chlorophyl fluorescence variations was probably related to NH4+ excess supply in the growing media and was not associated with the elevated electrical conductivity in the solution. The absence of any adverse stressful consequences upon the addition of 20 mM NaCl may be attributed to the high salt tolerance of peppermint and spearmint species.
Micropropagation Supports Reintroduction of an Apulian Artichoke Landrace in Sustainable Cropping Systems
Authors: Ancona Simona , De Mastro Giuseppe , Jenderek Maria M. , Ruta Claudia
Published: June 2021

Artichoke (Cynara cardunculus L. var. scolymus (L.) Fiori) is a perennial plant of the Asteraceae’s family native to the Mediterranean basin. Italy has rich artichoke biodiversity, but many landraces are subjected to genetic erosion caused by increasing use of commercial varieties that are more homogenous in production. An Apulian landrace ‘Troianella’ was established in vitro to valorize and provide high-quality material for propagation in nurseries and, subsequently, for cultivation in production fields. The shoot proliferation was tested on four different growth media, adding cytokinin (-6-benzylamminopurine (BAP-0.05 mg L−1). Among these, the best results were achieved on MS519-A and BM media in which MS macronutrients were supplemented with additional doses of CaCl2 and MgSO4 (plus 120 mg L−1 and 190 mg L−1, respectively). In vitro root induction was obtained with 10 mg L−1 of Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and 30 g L−1 of sucrose. Plants derived from tissue culture were acclimatized in greenhouse using mycorrhizal symbiosis to increase survival during the acclimatization phase and to improve their performance after transplanting in field. Three arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi (Septoglomus viscosum, Funelliformis mosseae, and Symbivit, a commercial mix) were added to a sterile substrate and compared to a sterile control without any AM fungal inocula. After 3 months, the best growth and plant appearance were on substrates with S. viscosum fungus or the commercial mycorrhizal fungi mix. The results supported a development of an efficient micropropagation protocol and a production of high quality plant material for sustainable farming of the endangered ’Troianella’ landrace.
Warm and Wet Autumns Favour Yield Losses of Oilseed Rape Caused by Phoma Stem Canker
Authors: Brachaczek Andrzej , Kaczmarek Joanna , Jedryczka Malgorzata
Published: June 2021

Winter oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) is the main source of domestic oil in central and northern Europe, bringing profits to farmers, but the plants are often damaged by stem canker, caused by two fungal species belonging to the genus Leptosphaeria. Due to environmental concerns, the benefits of fungicide applications must outweigh disadvantages. The aim of this work was to determine the effect of stem canker on seed yield and its quality and find out the best timing of fungicide application. The multi-year field experiments were done at two sites in south-west Poland, where the disease is regarded as a serious problem. The fungicide treatments with the azole-containing preparation followed the same scheme each year; a single application was made at one-week intervals, starting in late September through mid-November for a total of eight treatments. Seed yield, oil and protein content, mass of thousand seeds as well as indole-and alkenyl-glucosinolate contents in seeds were statistically unrelated with the incidence and severity of phoma leaf spotting and stem canker symptoms. The significant decrease of the seed yield was observed in three (site × year combinations) of eight, in which phoma leaf spotting and stem canker were severe. Yield loss was noted only in years with warm and wet autumns, when cumulative mean temperatures between BBCH14 and BBCH19 plant growth stages exceeded 60 °C and precipitation in this period exceeded 110 mm of rain. Under these conditions, fungicide treatments were highly effective when they were done between BBCH15–BBC16 growth stages (5–6 true leaves).
Karyological Diversification in the Genus Lyciasalamandra (Urodela: Salamandridae)
Authors: Mezzasalma Marcello , Odierna Gaetano , Petraccioli Agnese , Veith Michael , Guarino Fabio Maria
Published: June 2021

We performed the first cytogenetic analysis on five out of the seven species of the genus Lyciasalamandra, including seven subspecies, and representatives of its sister genus Salamandra. All the studied species have a similar karyotype of 2n = 24, mostly composed of biarmed elements. C-bands were observed on all chromosomes, at centromeric, telomeric and interstitial position. We found a peculiar taxon-specific NOR configuration, including either heteromorphic and homomorphic NORs on distinct regions of different chromosomes. Lyciasalamandra a.antalyana and L. helverseni showed two homomorphic NORs (pairs 8 and 2, respectively), while heteromorphic NORs were found in L. billae (pairs 6, 12), L. flavimembris (pairs 2, 12), L. l. luschani (pairs 2, 12), L. l. basoglui (pairs 6, 12), L. l. finikensis (pairs 2, 6) and S. lanzai (pairs 8, 10). Homomorphic NORs with an additional supernumerary site were shown by S. s. salamandra (pairs 2, 8) and S. s. gigliolii (pairs 2, 10). This unexpected highly variable NOR configuration is probably derived from multiple independent NOR translocations and paracentric inversions and correlated to lineage divergence in Lyciasalamandra. These results support the taxonomic validity of the studied taxa and are consistent with a hypothesized scenario of synchronous evolution in the genus.
Behavioural Diversity Study in Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) Groups and Its Implications for Welfare Assessments
Authors: Delfour Fabienne , Vaicekauskaite Ruta , García-Párraga Daniel , Pilenga Cristina , Serres Agathe , Brasseur Isabelle , Pascaud Ana , Perlado-Campos Enrique , Sánchez-Contreras Guillermo J. , Baumgartner Katrin , Monreal-Pawlowsky Tania
Published: June 2021

In the recent past, animal welfare studies have tried to determine the best animal welfare measures and indicators. Expression of behavioural diversity is considered a potential positive welfare indicator, and to the authors’ knowledge, it has not been validated nor studied in cetaceans. For the first time, a behavioural diversity study on bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) groups was conducted at six European facilities. The study was carried out by the animal care staff, biologists and veterinarians and included 54 dolphins housed in several group compositions at the different participating facilities. The goal of our study was to analyse behavioural diversity in bottlenose dolphins at the group level to investigate how particular factors might impact the diversity of behaviours within the group and to discuss its implications for dolphin welfare assessments. Eight factors (i.e., “observer location”, “number of individuals”, “age class”, “sex”, “social grouping”, “presence/absence of leading male”, “presence/absence of visitors” and “enrichment provision”) impacted the behavioural diversity of the observed groups, while no significant impact of the factors “time of day” and “activity before/after observation” could be found. Our study showed the feasibility of this kind of approach for cetaceans under professional care and the relevance to considering this parameter in dolphin welfare studies, despite certain limitations that warrant further research.
Prolonged Infusion of β-Lactams Decreases Mortality in Patients with Septic Shock: A Retrospective before-and-after Study
Authors: Richter Daniel Christoph , Dietrich Maximilian , Lalev Lazar Detelinov , Schmitt Felix C. F. , Fiedler Mascha Onida , Bruckner Thomas , Stoerzinger Dominic , Chiriac Ute , Klein Sabrina , Hackert Thilo , Brenner Thorsten , Brinkmann Alexander , Weigand Markus A.
Published: June 2021

Septic shock substantially alters the pharmacokinetic properties of β-lactams with a subsequently high risk of insufficiently low serum concentrations and treatment failure. Considering their pharmacokinetic (PK)/pharmacodynamic (PD) index, prolonged infusions (PI) of β-lactams extend the time that the unbound fraction of the drug remains above the minimal inhibitory concentration MIC (ft >MIC) and may improve patient survival. The present study is a monocentric, retrospective before-and-after analysis of septic shock patients treated with β-lactams. Patients of the years 2015–2017 received intermittent bolus application whereas patients of 2017–2020 received PI of β-lactams. The primary outcome was mortality at day 30 and 90 after diagnosis of septic shock. Mortality rates in the PI group were significantly lower on day 30 (PI: 41%, n = 119/290 vs. IB: 54.8%, n = 68/114; p = 0.0097) and day 90 (PI: 47.9%, n = 139/290 vs. IB: 62.9%, n = 78/124; p = 0.005). After propensity-score matching, 30- and 90-day mortality remained lower for the PI group (−10%, p = 0.14). PI was further associated with a reduction in the duration of invasive ventilation and a stronger decrease in SOFA scores within a 14 day-observation period. PI of β-lactams was associated with a significant reduction of mortality in patients with septic shock and may have beneficial effects on invasive ventilation and recovery from sepsis-related organ failure.
Antibacterial Activity of Propolis Extracts from the Central Region of Romania against Neisseria gonorrhoeae
Authors: Vică Mihaela Laura , Glevitzky Ioana , Glevitzky Mirel , Siserman Costel Vasile , Matei Horea Vladi , Teodoru Cosmin Adrian
Published: June 2021

(1) Background: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are among the most common infections worldwide, many of these being caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG). Increased antimicrobial NG resistance has been reported in recent decades, highlighting the need for new sources of natural compounds with valuable antimicrobial activity. This study aims to determine the effect of propolis extracts on NG strains, including antibiotic-resistant strains. (2) Methods: First void urine samples from presumed positive STI subjects were harvested. DNA was extracted, purified, and amplified via PCR for the simultaneous detection of 6 STIs. The presence of the dcmH, gyrA, and parC genes was checked in the DNA samples from NG-positive patients. The antimicrobial activity of 5 aqueous propolis extracts from central Romania was investigated in vitro against some isolated NG strains. ANOVA tests were employed to assess differences and interactions between the inhibition zone for NG strains and propolis extracts. (3) Results: 7.07% of the patients presented NG infections, some strains being resistant or intermediate-resistant to ciprofloxacin. All propolis samples exhibited an antibacterial effect, including on resistant strains. (4) Conclusions: Statistical analysis demonstrated that the diameter of the inhibition zone was influenced both by the NG strain type and the source of the propolis extracts.
Red Cabbage Rather Than Green Cabbage Increases Stress Resistance and Extends the Lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Zhang Nan , Jiao Shunshan , Jing Pu
Published: June 2021

Many studies have demonstrated that cabbages possess various biological activities, and our previous studies confirmed that cyanidin-3-diglucoside-5-glucoside (CY3D5G), the major core of red cabbage anthocyanins, exhibited in vitro antioxidant activity. This study further investigated the protective effects of CY3D5G derivative from red cabbage juice (RCJ) on oxidative stress and lifespan in cells and Caenorhabditis elegans, green cabbage juice (GCJ) was used as control. RCJ rather than GCJ significantly improved cell viability and decreased lactate dehydrogenase release in H2O2-induced caco-2 cells. RCJ significantly increased survival during oxidative and heat stress and mean lifespan in C. elegans by 171.63% and 31.64%, and 28.16%, respectively, while GCJ treatment showed no significant effects (p < 0.05). These results might be attributed to significantly (p < 0.05) higher contents of total phenolics, ascorbic acid, glucosinolates, and anthocyanins in RCJ compared to those in GCJ. Additionally, both of them decreased autofluorescence and reproductive capacity, increased body length, but did not alter the intracellular ROS level. Prolonged lifespan by RCJ might require heat-shock transcription factor pathway, sirtuin signaling, and calmodulin kinase II pathway, independent of insulin/insulin-like growth factor-1 signaling pathway. RCJ showed promising antioxidant properties in caco-2 cells and C. elegans, which provided more information on the health benefits of cabbage.
Secure Data Exchange in M-Learning Platform using Adaptive Tunicate Slime-Mold-Based Hybrid Optimal Elliptic Curve Cryptography
Authors: Aldabbagh Ghadah , Alghazzawi Daniyal M. , Hasan Syed Hamid , Alhaddad Mohammed , Malibari Areej , Cheng Li
Published: June 2021

The utilization of mobile learning continues to rise and has attracted many organizations, university environments and institutions of higher education all over the world. The cloud storage system consists of several defense issues since data security and privacy have become known as the foremost apprehension for the users. Uploading and storing specific data in the cloud is familiar and widespread, but securing the data is a complicated task. This paper proposes a cloud-based mobile learning system using a hybrid optimal elliptic curve cryptography (HOECC) algorithm comprising public and private keys for data encryption. The proposed approach utilizes an adaptive tunicate slime-mold (ATS) algorithm to generate optimal key value. Thus, the data uploaded in the cloud system are secured with high authentication, data integrity and confidentiality. The study investigation employed a survey consisting of 50 students and the questionnaire was sent to all fifty students. In addition to this, for obtaining secure data transmission in the cloud, various performance measures, namely the encryption time, decryption time and uploading/downloading time were evaluated. The results reveal that the time of both encryption and decryption is less in ATF approach when compared with other techniques.
Macrophagic Inflammatory Response Next to Dental Implants with Different Macro- and Micro-Structure: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Menini Maria , Delucchi Francesca , Baldi Domenico , Pera Francesco , Bagnasco Francesco , Pesce Paolo
Published: June 2021

(1) Background: Intrinsic characteristics of the implant surface and the possible presence of endotoxins may affect the bone–implant interface and cause an inflammatory response. This study aims to evaluate the possible inflammatory response induced in vitro in macrophages in contact with five different commercially available dental implants. (2) Methods: one zirconia implant NobelPearl® (Nobel Biocare) and four titanium implants, Syra® (Sweden & Martina), Prama® (Sweden & Martina), 3iT3® (Biomet 3i) and Shard® (Mech & Human), were evaluated. After 4 h of contact of murine macrophage cells J774a.1 with the implants, the total RNA was extracted, transcribed to cDNA and the gene expression of the macrophages was evaluated by quantitative PCR (qPCR) in relation to the following genes: GAPDH, YWHAZ, IL1β, IL6, TNFα, NOS2, MMP-9, MMP-8 and TIMP3. The results were statistically analyzed and compared with negative controls. (3) Results: No implant triggered a significant inflammatory response in macrophages, although 3iT3 exhibited a slight pro-inflammatory effect compared to other samples. (4) Conclusions: All the samples showed optimal outcomes without any inflammatory stimulus on the examined macrophagic cells.
Estimation and Improvement of the Achievable Tolerance Interval in Material Extrusion Additive Manufacturing through a Multi-State Machine Performance Perspective
Authors: Beltrán Natalia , Álvarez Braulio J. , Blanco David , Noriega Álvaro , Fernández Pedro
Published: June 2021

Dimensional quality is still a major concern in additive manufacturing (AM) processes and its improvement is key to closing the gap between prototype manufacturing and industrialized production. Mass production requires the full working space of the machine to be used, although this arrangement could lead to location-related differences in part quality. The present work proposes the application of a multi-state machine performance perspective to reduce the achievable tolerance intervals of features of linear size in material extrusion (MEX) processes. Considering aspecific dimensional parameter, the dispersion and location of the distribution of measured values between different states are analyzed to determine whether the production should be treated as single-state or multi-state. A design for additive manufacturing strategy then applies global or local size compensations to modify the 3D design file and reduce deviations between manufactured values and theoretical values. The variation in the achievable tolerance range before and after the optimization of design is evaluated by establishing a target machine performance index. This strategy has been applied to an external MEX-manufactured cylindrical surface in a case study. The results show that the multi-state perspective provides a better understanding of the sources of quality variability and allows for a significant reduction in the achievable tolerance interval. The proposed strategy could help to accelerate the industrial adoption of AM process by reducing differences in quality with respect to conventional processes.
Identification of Debonding Damage at Spar Cap-Shear Web Joints by Artificial Neural Network Using Natural Frequency Relevant Key Features of Composite Wind Turbine Blades
Authors: Jang Yun-Jung , Kim Hyeong-Jin , Kim Hak-Geun , Kang Ki-Weon
Published: June 2021

As the size and weight of blades increase with the recent trend toward larger wind turbines, it is important to ensure the structural integrity of the blades. For this reason, the blade consists of an upper and lower skin that receives the load directly, a shear web that supports the two skins, and a spar cap that connects the skin and the shear web. Loads generated during the operation of the wind turbine can cause debonding damage on the spar cap-shear web joints. This may change the structural stiffness of the blade and lead to a lack of integrity; therefore, it would be beneficial to be able to identify possible damage in advance. In this paper we present a model to identify debonding damage based on natural frequency. This was carried out by modeling 1105 different debonding damages, which were classified by configuration type, location, and length. After that, the natural frequencies, due to the debonding damage of the blades, were obtained through modal analysis using FE analysis. Finally, an artificial neural network was used to study the relationship between debonding damage and the natural frequencies.
Design and Development of an Embedded Controller for a Hydraulic Walking Robot WLBOT
Authors: Liu Ziqi , Zhang Ce , Jin Bo , Zhai Shuo , Dong Junkui
Published: June 2021

In order to meet the requirement for the real-time of the hydraulic walking robot (WLBOT) and the stability of its movement, an embedded controller is proposed, which takes charge of multi-sensor information processing and signal output of the servo valve. The controller is capable of receiving control command and sending processed information while communicating with an embedded single board computer PCM-3365 via Control Area Network (CAN) bus at a 200 Hz frequency. In this paper, an appropriate interrupt cycle is selected and a 2 kHz high-speed control loop is run after we research the relationship between analog-to-digital converter direct memory access (ADC–DMA) interrupt cycle, data volume, and sampling rate. Significantly, the control strategy of WLBOT joint is introduced and a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) compound controller with velocity feedforward compensation (VFC) is realized. Meanwhile, the Chebyshev filtering algorithm is utilized to attenuate the vibration noise of joint signals. What’s more, an impedance controller is designed to gain better locomotion behavior and compliance in joint force control. Finally, the joint angle tracking and robot walking experiments are implemented, where the feasibility of the design and the validity of the control algorithm is verified. The results show that the PID velocity feedforward compensation controller can reduce the maximum tracking error by 39.13% and 71.31% in the knee and hip joint and the impedance control can reduce the standard deviation (SD) of the foot force by 36.06% and 72.79%.
Open Porous Composite Monoliths for Biomedical Applications via Photocrosslinking of Low Internal Phase Nano-Emulsion Templates
Authors: Celentano Maurizio , Vecchione Raffaele , De Simone Maddalena , Esposito Eliana , Patrone Monica , Netti Paolo Antonio
Published: June 2021

Highly cross-linked polyethylene glycol monoliths (HCPEG) with interconnected micro and nanoporosity are produced via photo-crosslinking of low internal phase emulsions (LIPE). Unlike previous works, this approach allows the pre-processing functionalization of both polymer matrix and porosity by loading both phases of the emulsion template with several active fillers, such as enzymes, semiconductive polymers, and metallic nanostructures. Importantly, both polymer matrix and porosity of the resulting composite HCPEG monoliths show neither serious cross-contamination nor morphological alterations. All in all, this material behaves like a network of nano/micro flasks embedded into a permeable media. Mechanical and dielectric properties of these composites HCPEG monoliths can be tuned by varying the content of fillers. Since these composite materials are produced by photo-crosslinking of LIPEs, they can be easily and rapidly processed into complex shapes like microneedles arrays through replica molding without detrimental modifications of the porous morphology. In principle, the proposed strategy allows us to fabricate medical devices. As proof of concept, we embedded glucose oxidase enzyme in the nanoporosity and the resulting composite porous material retained the catalytic activity towards the oxidation of glucose.
CoNiZn and CoNiFe Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Physical Characterization, and In Vitro Cytotoxicity Evaluations
Authors: Alikhanzadeh-Arani Sima , Almasi-Kashi Mohammad , Sargazi Saman , Rahdar Abbas , Arshad Rabia , Baino Francesco
Published: June 2021

The polyol method has been used to synthesize CoNiFe and CoNiZn alloy nanoparticles (NPs). The magnetic characteristics of the products have been measured by vibration sample magnetometry (VSM) analysis. At the same time, the microstructure and morphology were inspected by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. Magnetic measurement of samples by the VSM indicated that samples have soft ferromagnetic behavior. Spherical-shaped grains for samples were confirmed by the SEM. MTT (3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assays were used to determine the cytotoxic effects of the synthesized NPs. Cytotoxic evaluations showed that treatment with 25 to 400 µg/mL of CoNiZn and CoNiFe NPs exerted a significant time- and concentration-dependent toxicity in MCF7 and HUVEC cells and markedly enhanced the LDH leakage after 48 h of exposure (p < 0.05 compared with untreated cells). Furthermore, NPs with concentrations higher than 12.5 µg/mL induced evident morphological changes in the studied cell lines. Treatment with 12.5 µg/mL of CoNiZn and CoNiFe NPs was safe and did not affect normal human cell survival. The results of in vitro cytotoxicity assessments show promise in supporting the suitability of the synthesized NPs to build high-performance theranostic nanoplatforms for simultaneous cancer imaging and therapy without affecting normal human cells.
Contribution of Recycled Moisture to Precipitation in Northeastern Tibetan Plateau: A Case Study Based on Bayesian Estimation
Authors: Qiu Xue , Zhang Mingjun , Dong Zhiwen , Wang Shengjie , Yu Xiuxiu , Meng Hongfei , Che Cunwei
Published: June 2021

(1) Background: The degree to which local precipitation is supplied by recycled moisture is a reflection of land surface–atmosphere interactions and a potentially significant climate feedback mechanism. This study tries to figure out the water cycle and precipitation mechanism at a mountainous region and then provides a reference for similar mountainous regions outside China. (2) Methods: The dual-isotopes and Bayes-based program MixSIAR is used to assess contributions of advected, transpirated and evaporated vapor to local precipitation. (3) Results: The average percent contribution of recycled moisture (i.e., the sum of surface evaporated vapor and transpirated vapor) to local precipitation at the Qilian Mountains during 2017 plant growing season is about 37% (the upper quartile and the lower quartile was 30% and 43%, respectively). (4) Conclusions: Although the contribution of advection vapor dominated during the plant growing season, the contribution of recycled moisture is also important in such an alpine region. Furthermore, the commonly used simple linear mixing models often yield contributions greater than 100% or less than 0% and are likely to underestimate the contribution of recycled moisture to local precipitation. Although the alternative Bayesian model is not perfect, either, it is still a big improvement.
Impact of M2BPGi on the Hepatocarcinogenesis after the Combination Therapy with Daclatasvir and Asunaprevir for Hepatitis C
Authors: Takakusagi Satoshi , Sato Ken , Marubashi Kyoko , Kizawa Kazuko , Kosone Takashi , Kakizaki Satoru , Takagi Hitoshi , Uraoka Toshio
Published: June 2021

The clinical significance of mac-2 binding protein glycosylation isomer (M2BPGi) levels based on virological responses due to antiviral therapy has not been fully evaluated. We compared the change before and 24 weeks after the therapy with daclatasvir and asunaprevir (DCV+ASV) of M2BPGi levels with those of other fibrosis markers in 73 chronic hepatitis C cases. Moreover, we examined the association between M2BPGi levels and hepatocarcinogenesis in sustained virological response (SVR) and non-SVR cases. M2BPGi levels were significantly improved at post-treatment week 24 (PTW24) in SVR but not non-SVR cases, whereas the changes of other fibrosis markers showed the same tendency in both SVR and non-SVR cases. M2BPGi levels were well correlated with other fibrosis markers at baseline but not PTW24. The incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was significantly associated with M2BPGi levels at PTW24. The achievement of SVR significantly affected the improvement of M2BPGi levels that best reflected the effect of direct-acting antivirals among the fibrosis markers. Furthermore, M2BPGi levels at PTW24 were also associated with the incidence of HCC in only SVR cases. However, the rapid decrease of M2BPGi levels might reflect the amelioration of liver inflammation rather than the improvement of liver fibrosis, which should be further elucidated.
NQS-Doped PDMS Solid Sensor: From Water Matrix to Urine Enzymatic Application
Authors: Martínez-Aviñó Adrià , Hakobyan Lusine , Ballester-Caudet Ana , Moliner-Martínez Yolanda , Molins-Legua Carmen , Campíns-Falcó Pilar
Published: June 2021

The development of in situ analytical devices has gained outstanding scientific interest. A solid sensing membrane composed of 1,2-naphthoquinone-4-sulfonate (NQS) derivatizing reagent embedded into a polymeric polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) composite was proposed for in situ ammonium (NH4+) and urea (NH2CONH2) analysis in water and urine samples, respectively. Satisfactory strategies were also applied for urease-catalyzed hydrolysis of urea, either in solution or glass-supported urease immobilization. Using diffuse reflectance measurements combined with digital image processing of color intensity (RGB coordinates), qualitative and quantitative analyte detection was assessed after the colorimetric reaction took place inside the sensing membrane. A suitable linear relationship was found between the sensor response and analyte concentration, and the results were validated by a thymol-PDMS-based sensor based on the Berthelot reaction. The suggested sensing device offers advantages such as rapidity, versatility, portability, and employment of non-toxic reagents that facilitate in situ analysis in an energy-efficient manner.
Telomere Shortening and Psychiatric Disorders: A Systematic Review
Authors: Pousa Pedro A. , Souza Raquel M. , Melo Paulo Henrique M. , Correa Bernardo H. M. , Mendonça Tamires S. C. , Simões-e-Silva Ana Cristina , Miranda Débora M.
Published: June 2021

Telomeres are aging biomarkers, as they shorten while cells undergo mitosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether psychiatric disorders marked by psychological distress lead to alterations to telomere length (TL), corroborating the hypothesis that mental disorders might have a deeper impact on our physiology and aging than it was previously thought. A systematic search of the literature using MeSH descriptors of psychological distress (“Traumatic Stress Disorder” or “Anxiety Disorder” or “depression”) and telomere length (“cellular senescence”, “oxidative stress” and “telomere”) was conducted on PubMed, Cochrane Library and ScienceDirect databases. A total of 56 studies (113,699 patients) measured the TL from individuals diagnosed with anxiety, depression and posttraumatic disorders and compared them with those from healthy subjects. Overall, TL negatively associates with distress-related mental disorders. The possible underlying molecular mechanisms that underly psychiatric diseases to telomere shortening include oxidative stress, inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction linking. It is still unclear whether psychological distress is either a cause or a consequence of telomere shortening.
Primary Cilium Is Involved in Stem Cell Differentiation and Renewal through the Regulation of Multiple Signaling Pathways
Authors: Yanardag Sila , Pugacheva Elena N.
Published: June 2021

Signaling networks guide stem cells during their lineage specification and terminal differentiation. Primary cilium, an antenna-like protrusion, directly or indirectly plays a significant role in this guidance. All stem cells characterized so far have primary cilia. They serve as entry- or check-points for various signaling events by controlling the signal transduction and stability. Thus, defects in the primary cilia formation or dynamics cause developmental and health problems, including but not limited to obesity, cardiovascular and renal anomalies, hearing and vision loss, and even cancers. In this review, we focus on the recent findings of how primary cilium controls various signaling pathways during stem cell differentiation and identify potential gaps in the field for future research.
The AMPK/p27Kip1 Pathway as a Novel Target to Promote Autophagy and Resilience in Aged Cells
Authors: McKay Lauren K. , White James P.
Published: June 2021

Once believed to solely function as a cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor, p27Kip1 is now emerging as a critical mediator of autophagy, cytoskeletal dynamics, cell migration and apoptosis. During periods of metabolic stress, the subcellular location of p27Kip1 largely dictates its function. Cytoplasmic p27Kip1 has been found to be promote cellular resilience through autophagy and anti-apoptotic mechanisms. Nuclear p27Kip1, however, inhibits cell cycle progression and makes the cell susceptible to quiescence, apoptosis, and/or senescence. Cellular location of p27Kip1 is regulated, in part, by phosphorylation by various kinases, including Akt and AMPK. Aging promotes nuclear localization of p27Kip1 and a predisposition to senescence or apoptosis. Here, we will review the role of p27Kip1 in healthy and aging cells with a particular emphasis on the interplay between autophagy and apoptosis.
Irinotecan (CPT-11) Canonical Anti-Cancer Drug Can also Modulate Antiviral and Pro-Inflammatory Responses of Primary Human Synovial Fibroblasts
Authors: Dobi Anthony , Gasque Philippe , Guiraud Pascale , Selambarom Jimmy
Published: June 2021

Alphaviruses are a group of arboviruses that generate chronic inflammatory rheumatisms in humans. Currently, no approved vaccines or antiviral therapies are available to prevent or treat alphavirus-induced diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the repositioning of the anti-cancer molecule irinotecan as a potential modulator of the antiviral and inflammatory responses of primary human synovial fibroblasts (HSF), the main stromal cells of the joint synovium. HSF were exposed to O’nyong-nyong virus (ONNV) and polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (PIC) to mimic, respectively, acute and chronic infectious settings. The cytokine IL-1β was used as a major pro-inflammatory cytokine to stimulate HSF. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis revealed that irinotecan at 15 µM was able to amplify the antiviral response (i.e., interferon-stimulated gene expression) of HSF exposed to PIC and reduce the expression of pro-inflammatory genes (CXCL8, IL-6 and COX-2) upon IL-1β treatment. These results were associated with the regulation of the expression of several genes, including those encoding for STAT1, STAT2, p53 and NF-κB. Irinotecan did not modulate these responses in both untreated cells and cells stimulated with ONNV. This suggests that this drug could be therapeutically useful for the treatment of chronic and severe (rather than acute) arthritis due to viruses.
The Ultimate (Mis)match: When DNA Meets RNA
Authors: Palancade Benoit , Rothstein Rodney
Published: June 2021

RNA-containing structures, including ribonucleotide insertions, DNA:RNA hybrids and R-loops, have recently emerged as critical players in the maintenance of genome integrity. Strikingly, different enzymatic activities classically involved in genome maintenance contribute to their generation, their processing into genotoxic or repair intermediates, or their removal. Here we review how this substrate promiscuity can account for the detrimental and beneficial impacts of RNA insertions during genome metabolism. We summarize how in vivo and in vitro experiments support the contribution of DNA polymerases and homologous recombination proteins in the formation of RNA-containing structures, and we discuss the role of DNA repair enzymes in their removal. The diversity of pathways that are thus affected by RNA insertions likely reflects the ancestral function of RNA molecules in genome maintenance and transmission.
Metallic Calcium as a Precursor for Sol-Gel Synthesis of CaCO3-SiO2 and CaO-SiO2 Systems
Authors: Marciniak Piotr , Sztorch Bogna , Martyła Agnieszka , Czapik Agnieszka , Stodolny Mikołaj , Przekop Robert E.
Published: June 2021

A series of binary oxide systems with Ca/Si molar ratios of 0.05, 0.1, 0.25, 0.5 and 1.0 have been synthesized by the sol-gel technique from tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) and metallic calcium powder. Upon calcination, a side effect of wollastonite formation as a result of the reaction between the components of the material has been observed in the two calcium-richest systems. The increase in calcium content produces an effect of porosity promotion. At high calcium contents, the homogeneity of the systems is limited by the ability of silica to disperse the calcium component. The properties of these systems are determined by the silica surface coverage with a large amount of the scattered CaCO3 fine microcrystallites (calcite), resulting from the phase segregation. The gels were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction, low temperature nitrogen adsorption, transmission and scanning electron microscopy (TEM, SEM and SEM/EDS), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and FT-IR spectra, to describe the parameters important from the point of view of their application as a support for metal-based catalysts.
Early Life Wheeze and Risk Factors for Asthma—A Revisit at Age 7 in the GEWAC-Cohort
Authors: Holmdahl Idun , Filiou Anastasia , Stenberg Hammar Katarina , Asarnoj Anna , Borres Magnus P. , van Hage Marianne , Hedlin Gunilla , Söderhäll Cilla , Konradsen Jon R.
Published: June 2021

One third of all toddlers are in need of medical care because of acute wheeze and many of these children have persistent asthma at school age. Our aims were to assess risk factors for and the prevalence of asthma at age 7 in a cohort of children suffering from an acute wheezing episode as toddlers. A total of 113 children, included during an acute wheezing episode (cases), and 54 healthy controls were followed prospectively from early pre-school age to 7 years. The protocol included questionnaires, ACT, FeNO, nasopharyngeal virus samples, blood sampling for cell count, vitamin D levels, and IgE to food and airborne allergens. The prevalence of asthma at age 7 was 70.8% among cases and 1.9% among controls (p < 0.001). Acute wheeze caused by rhinovirus (RV) infection at inclusion was more common among cases with asthma at age 7 compared to cases without asthma (p = 0.011) and this association remained significant following adjustment for infection with other viruses (OR 3.8, 95% CI 1.4–10.5). Cases with asthma at age 7 had been admitted to hospital more often (p = 0.024) and spent more days admitted (p = 0.01) during the year following inclusion compared to cases without asthma. RV infection stands out as the main associated factor for wheeze evolving to persistent asthma. Cases who developed asthma also had an increased need of hospital time and care for wheeze during the year after inclusion.
Analysis of Te Inclusion Striations in (Cd,Zn)Te Crystals Grown by Traveling Heater Method
Authors: Zou Jiaona , Fauler Alex , Senchenkov Alexander S. , Kolesnikov Nikolai N. , Fiederle Michael
Published: June 2021

The growth of (Cd,Zn)Te (CZT) crystals and the improvement of the crystal quality are part of a research project towards experiments under microgravity using the Traveling Heater Method (THM). In order to determine the experimental parameters, we performed a detailed ground-based program. Three CZT crystals with a nominal Zn content of 10% were grown using THM from a Te-rich solution. The size and distribution of the Te inclusions were evaluated by transmission infrared microscopy (IR). From the three-dimensional mapping of the inclusions, we observed striation-like patterns in all of the crystals. The correlation between the growth parameters and the formation of these striations was explored and discussed. We found that the inclusion striations are related to periodic temperature variations.
Effect on Compton Scattering Spectra by Hermite–Gaussian Light
Authors: Agui Akane , Sakurai Hiroshi , Tsuji Naruki , Ito Haruka , Nitta Kiyofumi
Published: June 2021

In this study, we measured the Compton scattering spectra of Al, Ag and Au metals changing the harmonic order of X-rays from an undulator. The width of the Compton scattered X-ray spectrum changed depending on the harmonic order of X-rays. This indicates that Compton scattering spectra shape reflects a momentum perpendicular to the traveling direction in Hermite–Gaussian (HG) light.