bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Force Is Strong with This One (but Not That One): What Makes a Successful Star Wars Video Game Adaptation?
Authors: Barr Matthew
Published: December 2020

The Star Wars films have probably spawned more video game adaptations than any other franchise. From the 1982 release of The Empire Strikes Back on the Atari 2600 to 2019’s Jedi: Fallen Order, around one hundred officially licensed Star Wars games have been published to date. Inevitably, the quality of these adaptations has varied, ranging from timeless classics such as Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic, to such lamentable cash grabs as the Attack of the Clones movie tie-in. But what makes certain ludic adaptations of George Lucas’ space opera more successful than others? To answer this question, the critical response to some of the best-reviewed Star Wars games is analysed here, revealing a number of potential factors to consider, including the audio-visual quality of the games, the attendant story, and aspects of the gameplay. The tension between what constitutes a good game and what makes for a good Star Wars adaptation is also discussed. It is concluded that, while many well-received adaptations share certain characteristics—such as John Williams’ iconic score, a high degree of visual fidelity, and certain mythic story elements—the very best Star Wars games are those which advance the state of the art in video games, while simultaneously evoking something of Lucas’ cinematic saga.
Sensitivity of Surface Fluxes in the ECMWF Land Surface Model to the Remotely Sensed Leaf Area Index and Root Distribution: Evaluation with Tower Flux Data
Authors: Stevens David , Miranda Pedro M. A. , Orth René , Boussetta Souhail , Balsamo Gianpaolo , Dutra Emanuel
Published: December 2020

The surface-atmosphere turbulent exchanges couple the water, energy and carbon budgets in the Earth system. The biosphere plays an important role in the evaporation process, and vegetation related parameters such as the leaf area index (LAI), vertical root distribution and stomatal resistance are poorly constrained due to sparse observations at the spatio-temporal scales at which land surface models (LSMs) operate. In this study, we use the Carbon Hydrology Tiled European Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) Scheme for Surface Exchanges over Land (CHTESSEL) model and investigate the sensitivity of the simulated turbulent fluxes to these vegetation related parameters. Observed data from 17 FLUXNET towers were used to force and evaluate model simulations with different vegetation parameter configurations. The replacement of the current LAI climatology used by CHTESSEL, by a new high-resolution climatology, representative of the station’s location, has a small impact on the simulated fluxes. Instead, a revision of the root profile considering a uniform root distribution reduces the underestimation of evaporation during water stress conditions. Despite the limitations of using only one model and a limited number of stations, our results highlight the relevance of root distribution in controlling soil moisture stress, which is likely to be applicable to other LSMs.
Mathematical Heat Transfer Modeling and Experimental Validation of Lithium-Ion Battery Considering: Tab and Surface Temperature, Separator, Electrolyte Resistance, Anode-Cathode Irreversible and Reversible Heat
Authors: Mevawalla Anosh , Panchal Satyam , Tran Manh-Kien , Fowler Michael , Fraser Roydon
Published: December 2020

The temperature and heat produced by lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries in electric and hybrid vehicles is an important field of investigation as it determines the power, performance, and cycle life of the battery pack. This paper presented both laboratory data and simulation results at C-rates of 1C, 2C, 3C, and 4C at an ambient temperature of approximately 23 °C. During experiment thermocouples were placed on the surface of the battery. The thermal model assumed constant current discharge and was experimentally validated. It was observed that temperature increased with C-rates at both the surface and the tabs. We note that at 4C the battery temperature increased from 22 °C to 47.40 °C and the tab temperature increased from 22 °C to 52.94 °C. Overall, the simulation results showed that more heat was produced in the cathode than the anode, the primary source of heat was the electrolyte resistance, and the battery temperature was the highest near the tabs and in the internal space of the battery. Simulation of the lithium concentration within the battery showed that the lithium concentration was more uniform in the anode than in the cathode. These results can help the accurate thermal design and thermal management of Li-ion batteries.
Incretin Hormones and Type 2 Diabetes—Mechanistic Insights and Therapeutic Approaches
Authors: Boer Geke Aline , Holst Jens Juul
Published: December 2020

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) are secreted from the gut upon nutrient stimulation and regulate postprandial metabolism. These hormones are known as classical incretin hormones and are responsible for a major part of postprandial insulin release. The incretin effect is severely reduced in patients with type 2 diabetes, but it was discovered that administration of GLP-1 agonists was capable of normalizing glucose control in these patients. Over the last decades, much research has been focused on the development of incretin-based therapies for type 2 diabetes. These therapies include incretin receptor agonists and inhibitors of the incretin-degrading enzyme dipeptidyl peptidase-4. Especially the development of diverse GLP-1 receptor agonists has shown immense success, whereas studies of GIP monotherapy in patients with type 2 diabetes have consistently been disappointing. Interestingly, both GIP-GLP-1 co-agonists and GIP receptor antagonists administered in combination with GLP-1R agonists appear to be efficient with respect to both weight loss and control of diabetes, although the molecular mechanisms behind these effects remain unknown. This review describes our current knowledge of the two incretin hormones and the development of incretin-based therapies for treatment of type 2 diabetes.
Innovative Self-Confidence Webinar Intervention for Depression in the Workplace: A Focus Group Study and Systematic Development
Authors: Wan Mohd Yunus Wan Mohd Azam , Musiat Peter , Brown June S. L.
Published: December 2020

Brief face-to-face self-confidence workshops were effective in reducing depression among the public. Technological advances have enabled traditional face-to-face interventions to be adapted using unique technology-mediated platforms. This article details the formative development of a self-confidence web-based seminar (webinar) intervention for workplace depression. The first section discusses a qualitative study that explores the feasibility and acceptability of adapting the self-confidence workshops into a webinar platform on employees in the workplace. The second section describes the systematic development of this new webinar intervention informed by the qualitative study findings, a published systematic review, and previous face-to-face self-confidence workshops. The qualitative study involves three focus groups (n = 10) conducted in a small organization. Three themes were identified relevant to the running of the new self-confidence webinars in the workplace: personal (content, time and duration preference, features of the webinar, individual participation, personalization), interpersonal (stigma from others, engagement with participants/presenter, moderated interaction), and organizational (endorsement from management, work demand). For the intervention development, the format, structure, features, and content of the self-confidence webinar intervention are described. Features such as file sharing, virtual whiteboard, live chat, and poll are explained with the intervention primarily based on cognitive behavior therapy and coping flexibility concepts.
Development of Simulation Model for Proper Sales Price of Apartment House in Seoul
Authors: Kim Kihyuk , Yun Jiyeong , Kim Sungjin , Kim Dae Young , Lee Donghoon
Published: December 2020

The number of new homes built in China in 2014 doubled compared to 2004, while Korea has built more than 3000 units every year since 2004 and Japan has built more than 6000 new units. Apartments account for 60% of homes in Korea, so it is anticipated that apartment construction projects will not cease in Korea. The current company assumes that the sale rate (pre-sale rate) of apartments may be completely controlled by the pre-sale prices. The study calculated appropriate pre-sale prices to maximize the revenue of companies based on that assumption. For that purpose, the study identified the factors affecting the pre-sale prices and analyzed its correlation with the pre-sale prices based on the apartments located in Seoul, Korea. As a result of the analysis, it was found that the pre-sale prices of apartments are correlated with the number of apartment complexes, local rates, and local development level. The final result of the study suggested a way to calculate the sale prices using the factors that are thought to be correlated with the pre-sale prices. A simulation model was created using the method. When tested, it yielded an average deviation rate of 10.32%. The current study will contribute to preventing the economic losses that may be caused by apartment construction projects.
Mechanisms Generating Cancer Genome Complexity: Back to the Future
Authors: Toledo Franck
Published: December 2020

Understanding the mechanisms underlying cancer genome evolution has been a major goal for decades. A recent study combining live cell imaging and single-cell genome sequencing suggested that interwoven chromosome breakage-fusion-bridge cycles, micronucleation events and chromothripsis episodes drive cancer genome evolution. Here, I discuss the “interphase breakage model,” suggested from prior fluorescent in situ hybridization data that led to a similar conclusion. In this model, the rapid genome evolution observed at early stages of gene amplification was proposed to result from the interweaving of an amplification mechanism (breakage-fusion-bridge cycles) and of a deletion mechanism (micronucleation and stitching of DNA fragments retained in the nucleus).
Commercialized Blood-, Urinary- and Tissue-Based Biomarker Tests for Prostate Cancer Diagnosis and Prognosis
Authors: Visser Wieke , de Jong Hans , Melchers Willem , Mulders Peter , Schalken Jack
Published: December 2020

In the diagnosis and prognosis of prostate cancer (PCa), the serum prostate-specific antigen test is widely used but is associated with low specificity. Therefore, blood-, urinary- and tissue-based biomarker tests have been developed, intended to be used in the diagnostic and prognostic setting of PCa. This review provides an overview of commercially available biomarker tests developed to be used in several clinical stages of PCa management. In the diagnostic setting, the following tests can help selecting the right patients for initial and/or repeat biopsy: PHI, 4K, MiPS, SelectMDx, ExoDx, Proclarix, ConfirmMDx, PCA3 and PCMT. In the prognostic setting, the Prolaris, OncotypeDx and Decipher test can help in risk-stratification of patients regarding treatment decisions. Following, an overview is provided of the studies available comparing the performance of biomarker tests. However, only a small number of recently published head-to-head comparison studies are available. In contrast, recent research has focused on the use of biomarker tests in relation to the (complementary) use of multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging in PCa diagnosis.
Effective Glycosylation of Cucurbitacin Mediated by UDP-Glycosyltransferase UGT74AC1 and Molecular Dynamics Exploration of Its Substrate Binding Conformations
Authors: Mu Shicheng , Li Jiao , Liu Cui , Zeng Yan , Men Yan , Cai Yi , Chen Ning , Ma Hongwu , Sun Yuanxia
Published: December 2020

Cucurbitacins, a group of diverse tetracyclic triterpenes, display a variety of biological effects. Glycosylation mediated by glycosyltransferases (UGTs) plays a vital role in structural and functional diversity of natural products and influences their biological activities. In this study, GT-SM, a mutant of UGT74AC1 from Siraitia grosvenorii, was chosen as a potential catalyst in glycosylation of cucurbitacins, and its optimal pH, temperature, and divalent metal ions were detected. This enzyme showed high activity (kcat/Km, 120 s−1 µM−1) toward cucurbitacin F 25-O-acetate (CA-F25) and only produced CA-F25 2-O-β-d-glucose which was isolated and confirmed by 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance. A pathway for uridine diphosphate glucose (UDP-Glc) regeneration and cucurbitacin glycoside synthesis was constructed by combing GT-SM and sucrose synthase to cut down the costly UDP-Glc. The molar conversion of CA-F25 was 80.4% in cascade reaction. Molecular docking and dynamics simulations showed that CA-F25 was stabilized by hydrophobic interactions, and the C2-OH of CA-F25 showed more favorable catalytic conformation than that of C3-OH, explaining the high regioselectivity toward the C2-OH rather than the ortho-C3-OH of CA-F25. This work proved the important potential application of UGT74AC1 in cucurbitacins and provided an understanding of glycosylation of cucurbitacins.
One-Pot Biocatalytic Preparation of Enantiopure Unusual α-Amino Acids from α-Hydroxy Acids via a Hydrogen-Borrowing Dual-Enzyme Cascade
Authors: Liu Fei , Zhou Junping , Xu Meijuan , Yang Taowei , Shao Minglong , Zhang Xian , Rao Zhiming
Published: December 2020

Unusual α-amino acids (UAAs) are important fundamental building blocks and play a key role in medicinal chemistry. Here, we constructed a hydrogen-borrowing dual-enzyme cascade for efficient synthesis of UAAs from α-hydroxy acids (α-HAs). D-mandelate dehydrogenase from Lactobacillus brevis (LbMDH) was screened for the catalysis of α-HAs to α-keto acids but with low activity towards aliphatic α-HAs. Therefore, we rational engineered LbMDH to improve its activity towards aliphatic α-HAs. The substitution of residue Leu243 located in the substrate entrance channel with nonpolar amino acids like Met, Trp, and Ile significantly influenced the enzyme activity towards different α-HAs. Compared with wild type (WT), variant L243W showed 103 U/mg activity towards D-α-hydroxybutyric acid, 1.7 times of the WT’s 60.2 U/mg, while its activity towards D-mandelic acid decreased. Variant L243M showed 2.3 times activity towards D-mandelic acid compared to WT, and its half-life at 40 °C increased to 150.2 h comparing with 98.5 h of WT. By combining LbMDH with L-leucine dehydrogenase from Bacillus cereus, the synthesis of structurally diverse range of UAAs from α-HAs was constructed. We achieved 90.7% conversion for L-phenylglycine production and 66.7% conversion for L-α-aminobutyric acid production. This redox self-sufficient cascade provided high catalytic efficiency and generated pure products.
Amino Acid Replacement at Position 228 Induces Fluctuation in the Ω-Loop of KPC-3 and Reduces the Affinity against Oxyimino Cephalosporins: Kinetic and Molecular Dynamics Studies
Authors: Piccirilli Alessandra , Brisdelli Fabrizia , Docquier Jean Denis , Aschi Massimiliano , Cherubini Sabrina , De Luca Filomena , Matagne André , Amicosante Gianfranco , Perilli Mariagrazia
Published: December 2020

KPC enzymes are the most common class A carbapenemases globally diffused. The peculiarity of this family of β-lactamases is represented by their ability to hydrolyse all classes of β-lactams, including carbapenems, posing a serious problem to public health. In the present study, seven laboratory mutants of KPC-3 (D228S, D228W, D228M, D228K, D228L, D228I and D228G) were generated by site-saturation mutagenesis to explore the role of residue 228, a non-active site residue. Compared to KPC-3, the seven mutants showed evident differences in kcat and Km values calculated for some penicillins, cephalosporins and carbapenems. In particular, D228S and D228M showed a significant increase of Km values for cefotaxime and ceftazidime. Circular dichroism (CD) experiments have demonstrated that substitution at position 228 does not affect the secondary structure of the mutants. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were performed on KPC-3, D228S and D228M uncomplexed and complexed with cefotaxime (substrate). Although the residue 228 is located far from the active site, between α11 helix and β7 sheet in the opposite site of the Ω-loop, amino acid substitution at this position generates mechanical effects in the active site resulting in enzyme activity changes.
Targeting Acid Ceramidase to Improve the Radiosensitivity of Rectal Cancer
Authors: Clifford Rachael E. , Govindarajah Naren , Bowden David , Sutton Paul , Glenn Mark , Darvish-Damavandi Mahnaz , Buczacki Simon , McDermott Ultan , Szulc Zdzislaw , Ogretmen Besim , Parsons Jason L. , Vimalachandran Dale
Published: December 2020

Previous work utilizing proteomic and immunohistochemical analyses has identified that high levels of acid ceramidase (AC) expression confers a poorer response to neoadjuvant treatment in locally advanced rectal cancer. We aimed to assess the radiosensitising effect of biological and pharmacological manipulation of AC and elucidate the underlying mechanism. AC manipulation in three colorectal cancer cell lines (HT29, HCT116 and LIM1215) was achieved using siRNA and plasmid overexpression. Carmofur and a novel small molecular inhibitor (LCL521) were used as pharmacological AC inhibitors. Using clonogenic assays, we demonstrate that an siRNA knockdown of AC enhanced X-ray radiosensitivity across all colorectal cancer cell lines compared to a non-targeting control siRNA, and conversely, AC protein overexpression increased radioresistance. Using CRISPR gene editing, we also generated AC knockout HCT116 cells that were significantly more radiosensitive compared to AC-expressing cells. Similarly, two patient-derived organoid models containing relatively low AC expression were found to be comparatively more radiosensitive than three other models containing higher levels of AC. Additionally, AC inhibition using carmofur and LCL521 in three colorectal cancer cell lines increased cellular radiosensitivity. Decreased AC protein led to significant poly-ADP ribose polymerase-1 (PARP-1) cleavage and apoptosis post-irradiation, which was shown to be executed through a p53-dependent process. Our study demonstrates that expression of AC within colorectal cancer cell lines modulates the cellular response to radiation, and particularly that AC inhibition leads to significantly enhanced radiosensitivity through an elevation in apoptosis. This work further solidifies AC as a target for improving radiotherapy treatment of locally advanced rectal cancer.
The Role of gp130 Cytokines in Tuberculosis
Authors: Ritter Kristina , Rousseau Jasmin , Hölscher Christoph
Published: December 2020

Protective immune responses to Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection substantially depend on a delicate balance within cytokine networks. Thus, immunosuppressive therapy by cytokine blockers, as successfully used in the management of various chronic inflammatory diseases, is often connected with an increased risk for tuberculosis (TB) reactivation. Hence, identification of alternative therapeutics which allow the treatment of inflammatory diseases without compromising anti-mycobacterial immunity remains an important issue. On the other hand, in the context of novel therapeutic approaches for the management of TB, host-directed adjunct therapies, which combine administration of antibiotics with immunomodulatory drugs, play an increasingly important role, particularly to reduce the duration of treatment. In both respects, cytokines/cytokine receptors related to the common receptor subunit gp130 may serve as promising target candidates. Within the gp130 cytokine family, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-11 and IL-27 are most explored in the context of TB. This review summarizes the differential roles of these cytokines in protection and immunopathology during Mtb infection and discusses potential therapeutic implementations with respect to the aforementioned approaches.
Differentially Expressed Genes Shared by Two Distinct Cytoplasmic Male Sterility (CMS) Types of Silene vulgaris Suggest the Importance of Oxidative Stress in Pollen Abortion
Authors: Krüger Manuela , Abeyawardana Oushadee A. J. , Krüger Claudia , Juříček Miloslav , Štorchová Helena
Published: December 2020

Cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS), encoded by the interacting mitochondrial and nuclear genes, causes pollen abortion or non-viability. CMS is widely used in agriculture and extensively studied in crops. Much less is known about CMS in wild species. We performed a comparative transcriptomic analysis of male sterile and fertile individuals of Silene vulgaris, a model plant for the study of gynodioecy, to reveal the genes responsible for pollen abortion in this species. We used RNA-seq datasets previously employed for the analysis of mitochondrial and plastid transcriptomes of female and hermaphrodite flower buds, making it possible to compare the transcriptomes derived from three genomes in the same RNA specimen. We assembled de novo transcriptomes for two haplotypes of S. vulgaris and identified differentially expressed genes between the females and hermaphrodites, associated with stress response or pollen development. The gene for alternative oxidase was downregulated in females. The genetic pathways controlling CMS in S. vulgaris are similar to those in crops. The high number of the differentially expressed nuclear genes contrasts with the uniformity of organellar transcriptomes across genders, which suggests these pathways are evolutionarily conserved and that selective mechanisms may shield organellar transcription against changes in the cytoplasmic transcriptome.
Diet Rich in Simple Sugars Promotes Pro-Inflammatory Response via Gut Microbiota Alteration and TLR4 Signaling
Authors: Fajstova Alena , Galanova Natalie , Coufal Stepan , Malkova Jana , Kostovcik Martin , Cermakova Martina , Pelantova Helena , Kuzma Marek , Sediva Blanka , Hudcovic Tomas , Hrncir Tomas , Tlaskalova-Hogenova Helena , Kverka Miloslav , Kostovcikova Klara
Published: December 2020

Diet is a strong modifier of microbiome and mucosal microenvironment in the gut. Recently, components of western-type diets have been associated with metabolic and immune diseases. Here, we studied how high-sugar diet (HSD) consumption influences gut mucosal barrier and immune response under steady state conditions and in a mouse model of acute colitis. We found that HSD significantly increased gut permeability, spleen weight, and neutrophil levels in spleens of healthy mice. Subsequent dextran sodium sulfate administration led to severe colitis. In colon, HSD significantly promoted neutrophil infiltration and increased the levels of IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α. Moreover, HSD-fed mice had significantly higher abundance of pathobionts, such as Escherichia coli and Candida, in fecal samples. Although germ-free mice colonized with microbiota of conventionally reared mice that consumed different diets had equally severe colitis, mice colonized with HSD microbiota showed markedly increased infiltration of neutrophils to the gut. The induction of colitis in Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-deficient HSD-fed mice led to significantly milder colitis than in wild-type mice. In conclusion, our results suggested a significant role of HSD in disruption of barrier integrity and balanced mucosal and systemic immune response. In addition, these processes seemed to be highly influenced by resident potentially pathogenic microbiota or metabolites via the TLR4 signaling pathway.
Paracetamol Sensing with a Pencil Lead Electrode Modified with Carbon Nanotubes and Polyvinylpyrrolidone
Authors: Pinyou Piyanut , Blay Vincent , Chansaenpak Kantapat , Lisnund Sireerat
Published: December 2020

The determination of paracetamol is a common need in pharmaceutical and environmental samples for which a low-cost, rapid, and accurate sensor would be highly desirable. We develop a novel pencil graphite lead electrode (PGE) modified with single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) polymer (PVP/SWCNT/PGE) for the voltammetric quantification of paracetamol. The sensor shows remarkable analytical performance in the determination of paracetamol at neutral pH, with a limit of detection of 0.38 μM and a linear response from 1 to 500 μM using square-wave voltammetry (SWV), which are well suited to the analysis of pharmaceutical preparations. The introduction of the polymer PVP can cause dramatic changes in the sensing performance of the electrode, depending on its specific architecture. These effects were investigated using cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results indicate that the co-localization and dispersion of PVP throughout the carbon nanotubes on the electrode are key to its superior electrochemical performance, facilitating the electrical contact between the nanotubes and with the electrode surface. The application of this sensor to commercial syrup and tablet preparations is demonstrated with excellent results.
The Behavior of Two Types of Upper Removable Retainers—Our Clinical Experience
Authors: Vaida Luminita Ligia , Bud Eugen Silviu , Halitchi Liliana Gabriela , Cavalu Simona , Todor Bianca Ioana , Negrutiu Bianca Maria , Moca Abel Emanuel , Bodog Florian Dorel
Published: December 2020

The Hawley retainer (HR) and the vacuum-formed retainer (VFR) are the most common removable retainers in orthodontic treatments. The aim of this retrospective study was to comparatively analyze the behavior of two types of removable retainers—HRs and VFRs—in terms of retainer damage, loss, and the rate of installation of mild or severe relapse that required recourse to certain therapeutic interventions. The study was performed on 618 orthodontic patients aged 11–17 years, average age 13.98 ± 1.51, out of which 57% were patients having VFRs and the remaining 43% having HRs in the upper arch. We performed an analysis of the two groups of patients—HRs group and VFRs group—at 6 months (T1) and at 12 months (T2) after the application of the retainer. The results showed that 6% of all the retainers were damaged, mostly at T2 (54.1%). Seven percent of all the retainers were lost, mostly at T1 (58.1%). Of all the patients, 9.1% presented mild relapse, mostly at T1 (58.9%), while 2.6% presented severe relapse. The VFRs were significantly more frequently associated with the occurrence of damage than the HRs (p < 0.001). Severe relapse was more frequently associated with the HRs rather than with VFRs (p < 0.05).
A Spectrophotometric Study on Light Attenuation Properties of Dental Bleaching Gels: Potential Relevance to Irradiation Parameters
Authors: Anagnostaki Eugenia , Mylona Valina , Kosma Kyriaki , Parker Steven , Chala Marianna , Cronshaw Mark , Dimitriou Vasilis , Tatarakis Michael , Papadogiannis Nektarios , Lynch Edward , Grootveld Martin
Published: December 2020

Background: During in-office bleaching, appropriate light sources are applied in order to enhance the activity of the bleaching gels applied onto teeth. For this method to be effective, a high absorption of light within the gel is necessary. Variation in the light attenuation capability of the gel, the duration of application and light activation can contribute towards safety hazards associated with this procedure. Methods: In this study, seven different gels and hydrogen peroxide have been evaluated for their optical properties by means of spectrophotometry (440–1000 nm). The transmitted light spectrum was used to estimate the intensity loss for each gel. The mean intensity decreases observed were statistically analysed using an analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results: The five more-pigmented gels tested indicated a very similar intensity loss of around 80%, whereas the remaining two gels showed significantly less attenuation (predominantly, p < 10−6). Conclusions: Throughout the spectrum of wavelengths examined, and according to the underlying studies evaluated, five of the gels assessed demonstrated an attenuation high enough to possibly avoid overheating of the underlying enamel dentine and pulp. An evaluation of appropriate irradiation parameters is proposed.
The Development of an Educational Outdoor Adventure Mobile App
Authors: Michalakis Vyron Ignatios , Vaitis Michail , Klonari Aikaterini
Published: December 2020

This article focuses on the development of an educational outdoor adventure mobile app while presenting findings that were derived from various case studies that we conducted using it. The mobile application, called RouteQuizer, is complemented by a web application and a database, forming a system that enables teachers to create educational treasure hunt activities for their students and monitor their performance. The aim of the research was to create a system that would exploit all possible Outdoor Adventure Education (OAE) and treasure hunt benefits while excluding possible smartphone use negative consequences. The development of the system took place in Greece and began in December 2017, by conducting a nation-wide research examining Greek secondary teachers’ Information and Communication Technology (ICT) literacy and perceptions on smartphone use and outdoor activities. By June 2018, 700 questionnaires were collected. In order to test the system, in March 2018, we conducted a pilot case study in Lesvos island Greece and between July 2018 and February 2020, we conducted four additional case studies and a teacher training program, all of which took place in Lesvos island Greece. During the development process of the mobile application, we focused on the participatory aspect of the process, paying special attention to the teacher and student evaluation during the design and prototyping phases. Considering that the system is educational we research whether the mobile application provided effective learning outcomes and whether it benefited students’ social and physical skills. The results that we collected suggest that the mobile application is an effective learning tool while mobile learning and treasure hunt benefits have been repeatedly confirmed during the case studies. Greek teachers and students also proved to be capable smartphone and computer users, and reported being willing to participate in similar activities in the future.
Bubbles in Crude Oil and Commodity Energy Index: New Evidence
Authors: Floros Christos , Galyfianakis Georgios
Published: December 2020

This paper considers a long dataset of both Brent and West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil prices and the Commodity (fuel) energy index (CEI) to identify possible bubbles. Using the Supremum Augmented Dickey–Fuller (SADF) test, we compare results from WTI and Brent with CEI. We prove that the CEI follows Brent crude oil (they provide similar bubble periods) and that Brent is recognized as a crude oil benchmark. Financial managers should incorporate it into their analysis and forecasts. The findings are strongly recommended to energy policymakers and investors.
Putrescine Promotes Betulin Accumulation in Suspension Cell Cultures of Betula platyphylla by Regulating NO and NH4+ Production
Authors: Fan Guizhi , Zhang Tingting , Liu Yingtian , Zhan Yaguang , Zheng Baojiang
Published: December 2020

Putrescine (Put) can enhance secondary metabolite production, but its intrinsic regulatory mechanism remains unclear. In this study, Put treatment promoted betulin production and gene expression of lupeol synthase (LUS), one of betulin synthetic enzymes. The maximum betulin content and gene expression level of LUS was 4.25 mg·g−1 DW and 8.25 at 12 h after 1 mmol·L−1 Put treatment, approximately two- and four-times that in the control, respectively. Put treatment increased the content of nitric oxide (NO) and its biosynthetic enzyme activity of nitrate reductase (NR) and NO synthase (NOS). Pretreatment of the birch suspension cells with NO-specific scavenger 2-(4-carboxyphenyl)-4,4,5,5-tetramethylimidazoline- 1-oxyl-3-oxide (cPTIO), NR inhibitor sodium azide (NaN3), and NOS inhibitor NG-nitro-L-Arg methyl ester (L-NAME) decreased Put-triggered NO generation and blocked Put-induced betulin production. Put treatment improved the content of NH4+ and its assimilation enzyme activity of glutamate synthase and glutamate dehydrogenase. NH4+ supplementation also promoted NO and betulin production. Thus, the above data indicated that Put-induced NO was essential for betulin production. NO derived from NR, NOS, and NH4+ mediated betulin production in birch suspension cell cultures under Put treatment.
Effects of Shell Thickness on Cross-Helicity Generation in Convection-Driven Spherical Dynamos
Authors: Silva Luis , Gupta Parag , MacTaggart David , Simitev Radostin D.
Published: December 2020

The relative importance of the helicity and cross-helicity electromotive dynamo effects for self-sustained magnetic field generation by chaotic thermal convection in rotating spherical shells is investigated as a function of shell thickness. Two distinct branches of dynamo solutions are found to coexist in direct numerical simulations for shell aspect ratios between 0.25 and 0.6—a mean-field dipolar regime and a fluctuating dipolar regime. The properties characterising the coexisting dynamo attractors are compared and contrasted, including differences in temporal behaviour and spatial structures of both magnetic fields and rotating thermal convection. The helicity α-effect and the cross-helicity γ-effect are found to be comparable in intensity within the fluctuating dipolar dynamo regime, where their ratio does not vary significantly with the shell thickness. In contrast, within the mean-field dipolar dynamo regime the helicity α-effect dominates by approximately two orders of magnitude and becomes stronger with decreasing shell thickness.
Rheological Behavior of Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice) Extract as a Function of Concentration and Temperature: A Critical Reappraisal
Authors: Nasiri Laleh , Gavahian Mohsen , Majzoobi Mahsa , Farahnaky Asgar
Published: December 2020

In the present study, rheological properties of twelve different licorice root extracts were evaluated using a rotational viscometer as a function of soluble solids content (15–45 °Bx) and temperature (30–70 °C). Response Surface Methodology was used to understand the relationships between the parameters. The experimental data were then fit into mathematical models. The results, for the first time, revealed that the licorice solutions had non-Newtonian shear-thinning behaviors with flow behavior indexes of 0.24 to 0.91, depending on the licorice extract samples, temperature, and °Bx. These observations were different from those reported in the literature and the present study elaborated on reasons for such observations. Further, the shear-thinning behavior generally increased by increasing the °Bx and decreasing the temperature. In addition, the power-law model was found to be suitable for predicting the experimental data. The newly revealed information can be particularly important in designing the unit operations for licorice extract processing.
Influences of Postharvest Storage and Processing Techniques on Antioxidant and Nutraceutical Properties of Rubus idaeus L.: A Mini-Review
Authors: Piccolo Ermes , Martìnez Garcìa Leani , Landi Marco , Guidi Lucia , Massai Rossano , Remorini Damiano
Published: December 2020

The growth of agricultural mechanization has promoted an increase in raspberry production, and for this reason, the best postharvest storage and processing techniques capable of maintaining the health beneficial properties of these perishable berry fruits have been widely studied. Indeed, raspberries are a rich source of bioactive chemical compounds (e.g., ellagitannins, anthocyanins, and ascorbic acid), but these can be altered by postharvest storage and processing techniques before consumption. Although there are clear differences in storage times and techniques, the content of bioactive chemical compounds is relatively stable with some minor changes in ascorbic acid or anthocyanin content during cold (5 °C) or frozen storage. In the literature, processing techniques such as juicing or drying have negatively affected the content of bioactive chemical compounds. Among drying techniques, hot air (oven) drying is the process that alters the content of bioactive chemical compounds the most. For this reason, new drying technologies such as microwave and heat pumps have been developed. These novel techniques are more successful in retaining bioactive chemical compounds with respect to conventional hot air drying. This mini-review surveys recent literature concerning the effects of postharvest storage and processing techniques on raspberry bioactive chemical compound content.
Indices for the Assessment of Glycoalkaloids in Potato Tubers Based on Surface Color and Chlorophyll Content
Authors: Tilahun Shimeles , An Hee Sung , Solomon Tifsehit , Baek Min Woo , Choi Han Ryul , Lee Hee Cheol , Jeong Cheon Soon
Published: December 2020

Glycoalkaloids (GAs) are toxic to humans at higher concentrations. However, studies also suggest the health benefits of GAs depending on the dose and conditions of use. Methods that have been used to determine GA content in potato tubers are destructive and time-consuming and require skilled personnel and high-performance laboratory equipment. We conducted this study to develop indices for the prediction of the level of total GAs in potato tubers at different greening stages based on surface color readings and chlorophyll (Chl) development. Color values (Hunter L*, a*, b*, a*/b*), Chls (Chl a, Chl b, and total Chls) and GA (α-solanine, α-chaconine, and total GAs) content were measured from tubers of ‘Atlantic’ and ‘Trent’ potato cultivars at three-week intervals in up to six greening stages during the storage at room conditions (22 °C, 12-h shift of light-dark cycles). The results have revealed that greening, Chls, and GA content significantly increased for the two cultivars as the stage proceeded. The toxic level of GAs (>200 mg kg−1 FW) was accumulated at the late greening stages, accompanied by the highest Chl content. Finally, indices were developed based on surface color and Chl content for estimation of the safe GA levels for the consumption of the two commercially and commonly used potato cultivars. Moreover, the developed indices could be used as basic information to adapt to other potato cultivars.
Eight-Year Health Risks Trend Analysis of a Comprehensive Workplace Health Promotion Program
Authors: Äikäs Antti , Absetz Pilvikki , Hirvensalo Mirja , Pronk Nicolaas
Published: December 2020

Research has shown that workplace health promotion (WHP) efforts can positively affect employees’ health risk accumulation. However, earlier literature has provided insights of health risk changes in the short-term. This prospective longitudinal quasi-experimental study investigated trends in health risks of a comprehensive, eight-year WHP program (n = 523–651). Health risk data were collected from health risk assessments in 2010–2011, 2013–2014, and 2016–2017, applying both a questionnaire and biometric screenings. Health risk changes were investigated for three different time-periods, 2010–2013, 2014–2017, and 2010–2017, using descriptive analyses, t-tests, and the Wilcoxon Signed Rank and McNemar’s test, where appropriate. Overall health risk transitions were assessed according to low-, moderate-, and high-risk categories. Trend analyses observed 50–60% prevalence for low-, 30–35% for moderate-, and 9–11% high-risk levels across the eight years. In the overall health risk transitions of the three time-periods, 66–73% of participants stayed at the same risk level, 13–15% of participants improved, and 12–21% had deteriorated risk level across the three intervention periods. Our findings appear to indicate that the multiyear WHP program was effective in maintaining low and moderate risk levels, but fell short of reducing the total number of health risks at the population level.
Student Misbehaviour and Teacher Coercion. A Comparative Study of Contextual Factors in Primary and Secondary Education Teachers
Authors: Orejudo Santos , Navarro Juan-José , Vicente Eva , Cardoso María Jesús
Published: December 2020

This study analyses the relation between student misbehaviour and teacher coercion from a teacher perspective by taking further contextual variables into account. Our participants were 480 male/female secondary education and 351 primary education teachers from the Spanish Autonomous Community of Aragón (Spain). This study forms part of the 2017 Coexistence Study in Aragón Education Centres. According to the theoretical framework and the SEM (structural equation modeling), the results revealed a close relationship between student misbehaviour and teacher coercion, although other contextual variables also appeared in the regression equation: in coexistence rules and in teacher competence. We ultimately found a certain degree of difference between the primary and secondary education levels. On the secondary school level, teacher conflicts were associated with student misbehaviour, while coexistence rules and participative and inclusive activities predicted teacher coercion. Conversely, on the primary school level, participative and inclusive activities predict a lower frequency of student misbehaviour, while teacher competence predicts a lower frequency of teacher coercion.
Effect of Social Participation on the Physical Functioning and Depression of Empty-Nest Elderly in China: Evidence from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Survey (CHARLS)
Authors: Su Dai , Chen Zhifang , Chang Jingjing , Gong Guangwen , Guo Dandan , Tan Min , Zhang Yunfan , Liu Yanchen , Chen Xinlan , Chen Xinlin , Chen Yingchun
Published: December 2020

This study aimed to explore the impact of social participation (SP) on physical functioning and depression among empty-nest elderly taking part in the fourth wave of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Survey (CHARLS, 2018). The instrumental variable (IV) method and propensity score matching (PSM) method were used to analyse the impact of SP. The two-stage regression results of the IV method showed that SP has a significant negative impact on the physical functioning scores of empty-nest elderly (β = −3.539, p < 0.001) and non-empty-nest elderly (β = −4.703, p < 0.001), and SP has a significant negative impact on the depression scores of empty-nest elderly (β = −2.404, p < 0.001) and non-empty-nest elderly (β = −1.957, p < 0.001). The results of the PSM method were basically consistent with the IV method. Compared with non-empty-nest elderly, SP had more positive effects on the depression of empty-nest elderly (Wald χ2 = 6.62, p = 0.010). Providing a friendly and supportive environment for the SP of empty-nest elderly was an important measure to promote healthy ageing. Targeted SP may be one of the greatest opportunities to improve the mental health of empty-nest elderly.
Patient-Centered Self-Management in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease: Challenges and Implications
Authors: Lin Chiu-Chu , Hwang Shang-Jyh
Published: December 2020

This review aims to identify attributes of patient-centered self-management (PCSM) in the current literature and explore its implementation in resolving patient obstacles in chronic kidney disease (CKD) treatment and management. A search of relevant articles and literature on PCSM, integrated care, and challenges of CKD management was conducted. Vital attributes of PCSM and current self-management interventions employed to resolve patient obstacles in CKD management were identified from inclusion studies. Findings affirm that PCSM strategies have positive effects on CKD management, but a lack of quality primary study, and long-term evidence presents the need for further development. Future research should focus on the development of a standardized and universal integrated PCSM model and a uniform system of data collection in the clinical setting. The difficulty of CKD management lies in how it is a comorbid and progressive disease. A pure biomedical approach is inadequate. Our review recommends that an integrated PCSM approach with health literacy and information technology intervention, which unifies and integrates patient education, can address the difficulties that are contributing to unsuccessful treatment outcomes. An integrated PCSM model should be implemented systematically and methodologically into future CKD management and health policies.
Molecular Epidemiology of Enteroaggregative Escherichia coli (EAEC) Isolates of Hospitalized Children from Bolivia Reveal High Heterogeneity and Multidrug-Resistance
Authors: Joffré Enrique , Iñiguez Rojas Volga
Published: December 2020

Enteroaggregative Escherichia coli (EAEC) is an emerging pathogen frequently associated with acute diarrhea in children and travelers to endemic regions. EAEC was found the most prevalent bacterial diarrheal pathogen from hospitalized Bolivian children less than five years of age with acute diarrhea from 2007 to 2010. Here, we further characterized the epidemiology of EAEC infection, virulence genes, and antimicrobial susceptibility of EAEC isolated from 414 diarrheal and 74 non-diarrheal cases. EAEC isolates were collected and subjected to a PCR-based virulence gene screening of seven virulence genes and a phenotypic resistance test to nine different antimicrobials. Our results showed that atypical EAEC (a-EAEC, AggR-negative) was significantly associated with diarrhea (OR, 1.62, 95% CI, 1.25 to 2.09, p < 0.001) in contrast to typical EAEC (t-EAEC, AggR-positive). EAEC infection was most prevalent among children between 7–12 months of age. The number of cases exhibited a biannual cycle with a major peak during the transition from warm to cold (April–June). Both typical and a-EAEC infections were graded as equally severe; however, t-EAEC harbored more virulence genes. aap, irp2 and pic were the most prevalent genes. Surprisingly, we detected 60% and 52.6% of multidrug resistance (MDR) EAEC among diarrheal and non-diarrheal cases. Resistance to ampicillin, sulfonamides, and tetracyclines was most common, being the corresponding antibiotics, the ones that are frequently used in Bolivia. Our work is the first study that provides comprehensive information on the high heterogenicity of virulence genes in t-EAEC and a- EAEC and the large prevalence of MDR EAEC in Bolivia.
Angiopoietin-2 Promotes Inflammatory Activation in Monocytes of Systemic Sclerosis Patients
Authors: Carvalheiro Tiago , Lopes Ana P. , van der Kroef Maarten , Malvar-Fernandez Beatriz , Rafael-Vidal Carlos , Hinrichs Anneline C. , Servaas Nila H. , Bonte-Mineur Femke , Kok Marc R. , Beretta Lorenzo , Zimmermann Maili , Marut Wioleta , Pego-Reigosa Jose M. , Radstake Timothy R. D. J. , Garcia Samuel
Published: December 2020

Angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2), a ligand of the tyrosine kinase receptor Tie2, is essential for vascular development and blood vessel stability and is also involved in monocyte activation. Here, we examined the role of Ang-2 on monocyte activation in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Ang-2 levels were measured in serum and skin of healthy controls (HCs) and SSc patients by ELISA and array profiling, respectively. mRNA expression of ANG2 was analyzed in monocytes, dermal fibroblasts, and human pulmonary arterial endothelial cells (HPAECs) by quantitative PCR. Monocytes were stimulated with Ang-2, or with serum from SSc patients in the presence of a Tie2 inhibitor or an anti-Ang2 neutralizing antibody. Interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 production was analyzed by ELISA. Ang-2 levels were elevated in the serum and skin of SSc patients compared to HCs. Importantly, serum Ang-2 levels correlated with clinical disease parameters, such as skin involvement. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) LPS, R848, and interferon alpha2a (IFN-α) stimulation up-regulated the mRNA expression of ANG2 in monocytes, dermal fibroblasts, and HPAECs. Finally, Ang-2 induced the production of IL-6 and IL-8 in monocytes of SSc patients, while the inhibition of Tie2 or the neutralization of Ang-2 reduced the production of both cytokines in HC monocytes stimulated with the serum of SSc patients. Therefore, Ang-2 induces inflammatory activation of SSc monocytes and neutralization of Ang-2 might be a promising therapeutic target in the treatment of SSc.