bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antibiofilm Activity of Heather and Manuka Honeys and Antivirulence Potential of Some of Their Constituents on the DsbA1 Enzyme of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Shirlaw Oscar , Billah Zara , Attar Baraa , Hughes Lisa , Qasaymeh Rana M. , Seidel Veronique , Efthimiou Georgios
Published: December 2020

Heather honey was tested for its effect on the formation of biofilms by Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterococcus faecalis, Salmonella Enteriditis and Acinetobacter baumanii in comparison with Manuka honey. At 0.25 mg/mL, Heather honey inhibited biofilm formation in S. aureus, A. baumanii, E. coli, S. Enteriditis and P. aeruginosa, but promoted the growth of E. faecalis and K. pneumoniae biofilms. Manuka honey inhibited biofilm formation in K. pneumoniae, E. faecalis, and S. Enteriditis, A. baumanii, E. coli and P. aeruginosa, but promoted S. aureus biofilm formation. Molecular docking with Autodock Vina was performed to calculate the predictive binding affinities and ligand efficiencies of Manuka and Heather honey constituents for PaDsbA1, the main enzyme controlling the correct folding of virulence proteins in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. A number of constituents, including benzoic acid and methylglyoxal, present in Heather and/or Manuka honey, revealed high ligand efficiencies for the target enzyme. This helps support, to some extent, the decrease in P. aeruginosa biofilm formation observed for such honeys.
Bioactive Compounds from the Bornean Endemic Plant Goniothalamus longistipetes
Authors: Teo Stephen P. , Bhakta Sanjib , Stapleton Paul , Gibbons Simon
Published: December 2020

The present study aimed to screen plants for bioactive compounds with potential antibacterial activities. In our efforts to evaluate plants from Borneo, we isolated and elucidated the structures of four natural products from the bioactive fraction of a chloroform extract of Goniothalamus longistipetes using various chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques. The bioactive compounds were identified as a known styryllactone, (+)-altholactone ((2S,3R,3aS,7aS)-3-hydroxy-2-phenyl-2,3,3a,7a-tetrahydrobenzo-5(4H)-5-one) (1), a new styryllactone, (2S,3R,3aS,7aS)-3-hydroxy-2-phenyl-2,3,3a,7a-tetrahydrobenzo-5(4H)-5-one) (2) as well as a new alkaloid, 2,6-dimethoxyisonicotinaldehyde (3) and a new alkenyl-5-hydroxyl-phenyl benzoic acid (4). 1 and 4 showed broad-spectrum anti-bacterial activities against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria as well as acid-fast model selected for this study. Compound 2 only demonstrated activities against Gram-positive bacteria whilst 3 displayed selective inhibitory activities against Gram-positive bacterial strains. Additionally, their mechanisms of anti-bacterial action were also investigated. Using Mycobacterium smegmatis as a fast-growing model of tubercle bacilli, compounds 1, 2 and 4 demonstrated inhibitory activities against whole-cell drug efflux and biofilm formation; two key intrinsic mechanisms of antibiotic resistance. Interestingly, the amphiphilic compound 4 exhibited inhibitory activity against the conjugation of plasmid pKM101 in Escherichia coli using a plate conjugation assay. Plasmid conjugation is a mechanism by which Gram-positive and Gram-negative-bacteria acquire drug resistance and virulence. These results indicated that bioactive compounds isolated from Goniothalamus longistipetes can be potential candidates as ‘hits’ for further optimisation.
Phenolic Fractions from Vaccinium vitis-idaea L. and Their Antioxidant and Anticancer Activities Assessment
Authors: Vilkickyte Gabriele , Raudone Lina , Petrikaite Vilma
Published: December 2020

Lingonberry leaves and fruits are associated with a range of potential bioactivities related to their phenolic content and composition, but the identification of major biological activity markers remains limited. The present study aimed at the isolation of lingonberry phenolic fractions and biological activity evaluation of them. Crude dry extracts of lingonberry leaves and fruits were fractionated by chromatography using Sephadex LH-20 and analyzed by validated HPLC-PDA method. For each fraction, the anticancer activity against human clear cell renal cell carcinoma (CaKi-1), human colon adenocarcinoma (HT-29), and human malignant melanoma (IGR39) cell lines was determined using MTT assay, and the radical scavenging, reducing, and chelating activities were investigated using ABTS, FRAP, and FIC assays, respectively. Further, 28 phenolics were identified and quantified in the crude extract of lingonberry leaves and 37 in the extract of fruits. These compounds, during fractionation steps, were selectively eluted into active fractions, enriched with different groups of phenolics—monophenols, anthocyanins, phenolic acids, catechins, flavonols, or proanthocyanidins. Fractions of lingonberry leaves and fruits, obtained by the last fractionation step, proved to be the most active against tested cancer cell lines and possessed the greatest antioxidant activity. In this perspective, the predominant compounds of these fractions—polymeric and mainly A-type dimeric proanthocyanidins—also quercetin can be considered to be anticancer and antioxidant activity markers of lingonberries.
The Role of Mitochondria in Brain Cell Protection from Ischaemia by Differently Prepared Propolis Extracts
Authors: Balion Zbigniev , Ramanauskienė Kristina , Jekabsone Aistė , Majienė Daiva
Published: December 2020

Mitochondria are both the primary targets and mediators of ischaemic damage in brain cells. Insufficient oxygen causes reactive oxygen species that damage the mitochondria, leading to the loss of functionality and viability of highly energy-demanding neurons. We have recently found that aqueous (AqEP), polyethylene glycol-aqueous (Pg-AqEP) and ethanolic propolis extracts (EEP) can modulate mitochondria and ROS production in C6 cells of astrocytic origin. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the extracts on viability, mitochondrial efficiency and superoxide generation, and inflammatory cytokine release in primary rat cerebellar neuronal-glial cell cultures affected by ischaemia (mimicked by hypoxia +/− deoxyglucose). AqEP and Pg-AqEP (15–60 µg/mL of phenolic compounds, or PC) significantly increased neuronal viability in ischaemia-treated cultures, and this was accompanied by a reduction in mitochondrial superoxide levels. Less extended protection against ischaemia-induced superoxide production and death was exhibited by 2 to 4 µg/mL of PC EEP. Both Pg-AqEP and Ag-EP (but not EEP) significantly protected the cultures from hypoxia-induced elevation of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6. Only Pg-AqEP (but not AqEP or EEP) prevented hypoxia-induced loss of the mitochondrial basal and ATP-coupled respiration rate, and significantly increased the mitochondrial respiratory capacity. Summarising, the study revealed that hydrophilic propolis extracts might protect brain cells against ischaemic injury by decreasing the level of mitochondrial superoxide and preventing inflammatory cytokines, and, in the case of Pg-AqEP, by protecting mitochondrial function.
Xenopus gpx3 Mediates Posterior Development by Regulating Cell Death during Embryogenesis
Authors: Lee Hongchan , Ismail Tayaba , Kim Youni , Chae Shinhyeok , Ryu Hong-Yeoul , Lee Dong-Seok , Kwon Taeg Kyu , Park Tae Joo , Kwon Taejoon , Lee Hyun-Shik
Published: December 2020

Glutathione peroxidase 3 (GPx3) belongs to the glutathione peroxidase family of selenoproteins and is a key antioxidant enzyme in multicellular organisms against oxidative damage. Downregulation of GPx3 affects tumor progression and metastasis and is associated with liver and heart disease. However, the physiological significance of GPx3 in vertebrate embryonic development remains poorly understood. The current study aimed to investigate the functional roles of gpx3 during embryogenesis. To this end, we determined gpx3’s spatiotemporal expression using Xenopus laevis as a model organism. Using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), we demonstrated the zygotic nature of this gene. Interestingly, the expression of gpx3 enhanced during the tailbud stage of development, and whole mount in situ hybridization (WISH) analysis revealed gpx3 localization in prospective tail region of developing embryo. gpx3 knockdown using antisense morpholino oligonucleotides (MOs) resulted in short post-anal tails, and these malformed tails were significantly rescued by glutathione peroxidase mimic ebselen. The gene expression analysis indicated that gpx3 knockdown significantly altered the expression of genes associated with Wnt, Notch, and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling pathways involved in tailbud development. Moreover, RNA sequencing identified that gpx3 plays a role in regulation of cell death in the developing embryo. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) and phospho-histone 3 (PH3) staining confirmed the association of gpx3 knockdown with increased cell death and decreased cell proliferation in tail region of developing embryos, establishing the involvement of gpx3 in tailbud development by regulating the cell death. Furthermore, these findings are inter-related with increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in gpx3 knockdown embryos, as measured by using a redox-sensitive fluorescent probe HyPer. Taken together, our results suggest that gpx3 plays a critical role in posterior embryonic development by regulating cell death and proliferation during vertebrate embryogenesis.
Pluripotent Stem Cells for Transgenesis in the Rabbit: A Utopia?
Authors: Samruan Worawalan , Beaujean Nathalie , Afanassieff Marielle
Published: December 2020

Pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) possess the following two main properties: self-renewal and pluripotency. Self-renewal is defined as the ability to proliferate in an undifferentiated state and pluripotency as the capacity to differentiate into cells of the three germ layers, i.e., ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm. PSCs are derived from early embryos as embryonic stem cells (ESCs) or are produced by reprogramming somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). In mice, PSCs can be stabilized into two states of pluripotency, namely naive and primed. Naive and primed PSCs notably differ by their ability to colonize a host blastocyst to produce germline-competent chimeras; hence, naive PSCs are valuable for transgenesis, whereas primed PSCs are not. Thanks to its physiological and developmental peculiarities similar to those of primates, the rabbit is an interesting animal model for studying human diseases and early embryonic development. Both ESCs and iPSCs have been described in rabbits. They self-renew in the primed state of pluripotency and, therefore, cannot be used for transgenesis. This review presents the available data on the pluripotent state and the chimeric ability of these rabbit PSCs. It also examines the potential barriers that compromise their intended use as producers of germline-competent chimeras and proposes possible alternatives to exploit them for transgenesis.
Developing Tungsten-Filled Metal Matrix Composite Materials Using Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Jäcklein Martin , Pfaff Aron , Hoschke Klaus
Published: December 2020

The additive manufacturing technique laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) opens up potential to process metal matrix composites (MMCs) with new material pairings free from limitations of conventional production techniques. In this work, we present a study on MMC material development using L-PBF. The generated composite material is composed of an X3NiCoMoTi 18-9-5 steel as matrix and spherical tungsten particles as filler material. A Design of Experiment (DoE)-based process parameter adaption leads to an Archimedean density close to the theoretical density in the case of 60 vol% tungsten content. A maximum ultimate tensile strength of 836 MPa is obtained. A failure analysis reveals a stable bonding of the tungsten particles to the steel matrix. This encourages the investigation of further material combinations. An additional heat treatment of the MMC indicates the potential to design specific material properties; it also highlights the complexity of such treatments.
Study on Electromigration Effects and IMC Formation on Cu–Sn Films Due to Current Stress and Temperature
Authors: Wang Zhao-Ying , Dang Nhat Minh , Wang Po-Hsun , Chen Terry Yuan-Fang , Lin Ming-Tzer
Published: December 2020

In this study, the effects of electromigration on a solder/copper substrate due to temperature and current density stress were investigated. The copper–tin (Cu–Sn) film samples were subjected under a fixed current and various heating conditions (130 °C and 180 °C) and current densities (different cross-sectional areas). The micro-structural changes and intermetallic compound (IMC) formation were observed, and failure phenomena (brittle cracks, voids, bumps, etc.) on the structures of samples were discussed. The results showed that the IMC thickness increased as the temperature and current density increased. Moreover, it was found that the higher the temperature and current density was, the greater the defects that were observed. By adjusting the designs of sample structures, the stress from the current density can be decreased, resulting in reduced failure phenomena, such as signal delay, distortion, and short circuiting after long-term use of the material components. A detailed IMC growth mechanism and defect formation were also closely studied and discussed.
Microfluidic Protein Imaging Platform: Study of Tau Protein Aggregation and Alzheimer’s Drug Response
Authors: Jain Shubha , Swain Sarpras , Das Lopamudra , Swain Sarita , Giri Lopamudra , Kondapi Anand Kumar , Narayanan Unni Harikrishnan
Published: December 2020

Tau protein aggregation is identified as one of the key phenomena associated with the onset and progression of Alzheimer’s disease. In the present study, we performed on-chip confocal imaging of tau protein aggregation and tau–drug interactions using a spiral-shaped passive micromixing platform. Numerical simulations and experiments were performed in order to validate the performance of the micromixer design. We performed molecular modeling of adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-induced tau aggregation in order to successfully validate the concept of helical tau filament formation. Tau aggregation and native tau restoration were realized using an immunofluorescence antibody assay. The dose–response behavior of an Alzheimer’s drug, methylthioninium chloride (MTC), was monitored on-chip for defining the optimum concentration of the drug. The proposed device was tested for reliability and repeatability of on-chip tau imaging. The amount of the tau protein sample used in our experiments was significantly less than the usage for conventional techniques, and the whole protein–drug assay was realized in less than two hours. We identified that intensity-based tau imaging could be used to study Alzheimer’s drug response. In addition, it was demonstrated that cell-free, microfluidic tau protein assays could be used as potential on-chip drug evaluation tools for Alzheimer’s disease.
Picomolar SARS-CoV-2 Neutralization Using Multi-Arm PEG Nanobody Constructs
Authors: Moliner-Morro Ainhoa , J. Sheward Daniel , Karl Vivien , Perez Vidakovics Laura , Murrell Ben , McInerney Gerald M. , Hanke Leo
Published: December 2020

Multivalent antibody constructs have a broad range of clinical and biotechnological applications. Nanobodies are especially useful as components for multivalent constructs as they allow increased valency while maintaining a small molecule size. We here describe a novel, rapid method for the generation of bi- and multivalent nanobody constructs with oriented assembly by Cu-free strain promoted azide-alkyne click chemistry (SPAAC). We used sortase A for ligation of click chemistry functional groups site-specifically to the C-terminus of nanobodies before creating C-to-C-terminal nanobody fusions and 4-arm polyethylene glycol (PEG) tetrameric nanobody constructs. We demonstrated the viability of this approach by generating constructs with the SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing nanobody Ty1. We compared the ability of the different constructs to neutralize SARS-CoV-2 pseudotyped virus and infectious virus in neutralization assays. The generated dimers neutralized the virus similarly to a nanobody-Fc fusion variant, while a 4-arm PEG based tetrameric Ty1 construct dramatically enhanced neutralization of SARS-CoV-2, with an IC50 in the low picomolar range.
The Application of a Plant Biostimulant Based on Seaweed and Yeast Extract Improved Tomato Fruit Development and Quality
Authors: Mannino Giuseppe , Campobenedetto Cristina , Vigliante Ivano , Contartese Valeria , Gentile Carla , Bertea Cinzia M.
Published: December 2020

Plant biostimulants are under investigation as innovative products to improve plant production and fruit quality, without resulting in environmental and food contaminations. Here, the effects of the application of Expando, a biostimulant based on seaweed and yeast extracts, on plant productivity, fruit ripening times, and fruit quality of Solanum lycopersicum var. Micro-Tom were evaluated. After biostimulant treatment, a two-week reduction of ripening times and a concomitant enhancement of the production percentage during the earliest ripening times, in terms of both fruit yield (+110%) and size (+85%), were observed. Concerning fruit quality, proximate analysis showed that tomatoes treated with the biostimulant had better nutritional composition compared to untreated samples, since both the quality of unsatured fatty acids (C16:3ω3: +328%; C18:2ω6: −23%) and micronutrients essential for human health (Fe: +14%; Cu: +21%; Zn: +24%) were increased. From a nutraceutical point of view, despite strong changes in bioactive compound profile not being observed, an increase of the antioxidant properties was recorded in fruits harvested by plants treated with the biostimulant (2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS): +38%; 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH): +11%). In conclusion, the biostimulant application was able to reduce the ripening times and fruit size, while slightly increasing nutritional and nutraceutical values, leading to more marketable tomato fruits.
Impact of Sucrose as Osmolyte on Molecular Dynamics of Mouse Acetylcholinesterase
Authors: Lushchekina Sofya V. , Inidjel Gaetan , Martinez Nicolas , Masson Patrick , Trovaslet-Leroy Marie , Nachon Florian , Koza Michael Marek , Seydel Tilo , Peters Judith
Published: December 2020

The enzyme model, mouse acetylcholinesterase, which exhibits its active site at the bottom of a narrow gorge, was investigated in the presence of different concentrations of sucrose to shed light on the protein and water dynamics in cholinesterases. The study was conducted by incoherent neutron scattering, giving access to molecular dynamics within the time scale of sub-nano to nanoseconds, in comparison with molecular dynamics simulations. With increasing sucrose concentration, we found non-linear effects, e.g., first a decrease in the dynamics at 5 wt% followed by a gain at 10 wt% sucrose. Direct comparisons with simulations permitted us to understand the following findings: at 5 wt%, sugar molecules interact with the protein surface through water molecules and damp the motions to reduce the overall protein mobility, although the motions inside the gorge are enhanced due to water depletion. When going to 10 wt% of sucrose, some water molecules at the protein surface are replaced by sugar molecules. By penetrating the protein surface, they disrupt some of the intra-protein contacts, and induce new ones, creating new pathways for correlated motions, and therefore, increasing the dynamics. This exhaustive study allowed for an explanation of the detail interactions leading to the observed non-linear behavior.
Expression of Circulating MicroRNAs Linked to Bone Metabolism in Chronic Kidney Disease-Mineral and Bone Disorder
Authors: Yavropoulou Maria P. , Vaios Vasilios , Makras Polyzois , Georgianos Panagiotis , Batas Anastasios , Tsalikakis Dimitrios , Tzallas Alexandros , Ntritsos Georgios , Roumeliotis Stefanos , Eleftheriadis Theodoros , Liakopoulos Vassilios
Published: December 2020

The pathophysiology of chronic kidney disease–mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD) is complex and multifactorial. Recent studies have identified a link between microRNAs (miRNAs) and bone loss. In this study, we investigated the expression of miRNAs in CKD-MBD. In this case-control study, we included thirty patients with CKD-MBD (cases) and 30 age- and gender-matched healthy individuals (controls). Bone mineral density (BMD) and trabecular bone score (TBS) evaluation was performed with dual X-ray absorptiometry. The selected panel of miRNAs included: hsa-miRNA-21-5p; hsa-miRNA-23a-3p; hsa-miRNA-24-2-5p; hsa-miRNA-26a-5p; hsa-miRNA-29a-3; hsa-miRNA-124-3p; hsa-miRNA-2861. The majority of cases had low BMD values. The relative expression of miRNA-21-5p was 15 times lower [fold regulation (FR): −14.7 ± 8.1, p = 0.034), miRNA-124-3p, 6 times lower (FR: −5.9 ± 4, p = 0.005), and miRNA-23a-3p, 4 times lower (FR: −3.8 ± 2.0, p = 0.036) in cases compared to controls. MiRNA-23a-3p was significantly and inversely correlated with TBS, adjusted for calcium metabolism and BMD values (beta = −0.221, p = 0.003, 95% CI −0.360, −0,081) in cases. In a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, expression of miRNA-124-3p demonstrated 78% sensitivity and 83% specificity in identifying CKD patents with osteoporosis. Serum expression of miRNAs related to osteoblasts (miRNA-23a-3p) and osteoclasts (miRNA-21-5p, miRNA-124-3p) is significantly altered in patients with CKD-MBD.
Salmonella-Based Therapy Targeting Indoleamine 2,3-Dioxygenase Restructures the Immune Contexture to Improve Checkpoint Blockade Efficacy
Authors: Ebelt Nancy D. , Zuniga Edith , Marzagalli Monica , Zamloot Vic , Blazar Bruce R. , Salgia Ravi , Manuel Edwin R.
Published: December 2020

Therapeutic options for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treatment have changed dramatically in recent years with the advent of novel immunotherapeutic approaches. Among these, immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) using monoclonal antibodies has shown tremendous promise in approximately 20% of patients. In order to better predict patients that will respond to ICB treatment, biomarkers such as tumor-associated CD8+ T cell frequency, tumor checkpoint protein status and mutational burden have been utilized, however, with mixed success. In this study, we hypothesized that significantly altering the suppressive tumor immune landscape in NSCLC could potentially improve ICB efficacy. Using sub-therapeutic doses of our Salmonella typhimurium-based therapy targeting the suppressive molecule indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (shIDO-ST) in tumor-bearing mice, we observed dramatic changes in immune subset phenotypes that included increases in antigen presentation markers, decreased regulatory T cell frequency and overall reduced checkpoint protein expression. Combination shIDO-ST treatment with anti-PD-1/CTLA-4 antibodies enhanced tumor growth control, compared to either treatment alone, which was associated with significant intratumoral infiltration by CD8+ and CD4+ T cells. Ultimately, we show that increases in antigen presentation markers and infiltration by T cells is correlated with significantly increased survival in NSCLC patients. These results suggest that the success of ICB therapy may be more accurately predicted by taking into account multiple factors such as potential for antigen presentation and immune subset repertoire in addition to markers already being considered. Alternatively, combination treatment with agents such as shIDO-ST could be used to create a more conducive tumor microenvironment for improving responses to ICB.
N-Formylated Peptide Induces Increased Expression of Both Formyl Peptide Receptor 2 (Fpr2) and Toll-Like Receptor 9 (TLR9) in Schwannoma Cells—An In Vitro Model for Early Inflammatory Profiling of Schwann Cells
Authors: Korimová Andrea , Dubový Petr
Published: December 2020

Following nerve injury, disintegrated axonal mitochondria distal to the injury site release mitochondrial formylated peptides and DNA that can induce activation and inflammatory profiling of Schwann cells via formyl peptide receptor 2 (Fpr2) and toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9), respectively. We studied RT4 schwannoma cells to investigate the regulation of Fpr2 and TLR9 after stimulation with fMLF as a prototypical formylated peptide. RT4 cells were treated with fMLF at various concentrations and times with and without pretreatment with inhibitors (chloroquine for activated TLR9, PBP10 for Fpr2). Western blots of Fpr2, TLR9, p-p38, p-NFκB, and IL-6 were compared in relation to inflammatory profiling of RT4 cells and chemokine receptors (CCR2, CXCR4) as potential co-receptors of Fpr2. fMLF stimulation upregulated Fpr2 in RT4 cells at low concentrations (10 nM and 100 nM) but higher concentrations were required (10 µM and 50 µM) when the cells were pretreated with an activated TLR9 inhibitor. Moreover, the higher concentrations of fMLF could modulate TLR9 and inflammatory markers. Upregulation of Fpr2 triggered by 10 nM and 100 nM fMLF coincided with higher levels of chemokine receptors (CCR2, CXCR4) and PKCβ. Treating RT4 cells with fMLF, as an in vitro model of Schwann cells, uncovered Schwann cells’ complex responses to molecular patterns of release from injured axonal mitochondria.
Establishment and Characterization of a Sclerosing Spindle Cell Rhabdomyosarcoma Cell Line with a Complex Genomic Profile
Authors: Schleicher Sabine , Grote Stefan , Malenke Elke , Chan Kenneth Chun-Ho , Schaller Martin , Fehrenbacher Birgit , Riester Rosa , Kluba Torsten , Frauenfeld Leonie , Boesmueller Hans , Göhring Gudrun , Schlegelberger Brigitte , Handgretinger Rupert , Kopp Hans-Georg , Traub Frank , Boehme Karen A.
Published: December 2020

Sclerosing spindle cell rhabdomyosarcoma (SSRMS) is a rare rhabdomyosarcomas (RMS) subtype. Especially cases bearing a myogenic differentiation 1 (MYOD1) mutation are characterized by a high recurrence and metastasis rate, often leading to a fatal outcome. SSRMS cell lines are valuable in vitro models for studying disease mechanisms and for the preclinical evaluation of new therapeutic approaches. In this study, a cell line established from a primary SSRMS tumor of a 24-year-old female after multimodal chemotherapeutic pretreatment has been characterized in detail, including immunohistochemistry, growth characteristics, cytogenetic analysis, mutation analysis, evaluation of stem cell marker expression, differentiation potential, and tumorigenicity in mice. The cell line which was designated SRH exhibited a complex genomic profile, including several translocations and deletions. Array-comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) revealed an overall predominating loss of gene loci. The mesenchymal tumor origin was underlined by the expression of mesenchymal markers and potential to undergo adipogenic and osteogenic differentiation. Despite myogenic marker expression, terminal myogenic differentiation was inhibited, which might be elicited by the MYOD1 hotspot mutation. In vivo tumorigenicity could be confirmed after subcutaneous injection into NOD/SCID/γcnull mice. Summarized, the SRH cell line is the first adult SSRMS cell line available for preclinical research on this rare RMS subtype.
Pediatric Spontaneous Pneumomediastinum after a Push-Up Exercise: An Uncommon Complication of a Common Exercise
Authors: Tsay Chih-Yi , Chen Yu-Long , Chen Chien-Sheng , Lin Po-Chen , Wu Meng-Yu
Published: December 2020

Pediatric spontaneous pneumomediastinum is an uncommon condition associated with infection, trauma, or coexisting structural lung pathology. Exercise-related spontaneous subcutaneous emphysema and pneumomediastinum are rarely reported. However, severe pneumomediastinum may coexist with pneumothorax, pneumorrhachis, and subcutaneous emphysema, which can potentially lead to serious complications, including airway obstruction and pneumorrhachis. Therefore, early diagnosis and timely management are important for physicians to determine the etiology and prevent further damage. Here, we present a case of exercise-related spontaneous subcutaneous emphysema and pneumomediastinum to highlight the pathogenesis and suggest therapeutic strategies.
Predicting Injury Status in Adolescent Dancers Involved in Different Dance Styles: A Prospective Study
Authors: Sekulic Damir , Prus Dasa , Zevrnja Ante , Peric Mia , Zaletel Petra
Published: December 2020

The positive effects of dance on health indices in youth are widely recognized, but participation in dance is accompanied with a certain risk of injury. This prospective study aimed to investigate injury occurrence and to evaluate the possible influences of specific predictors on the occurrence of musculoskeletal problems and injuries in adolescent dancers. Participants were 126 dancers (21 males; 11–18 years), who were competitors in the urban dance, rock and roll, and standard/Latin dance genres. Predictors included sociodemographic factors, anthropometric/body build indices, sport (dance) factors, and dynamic balance. The outcome variable was injury status, and this was evaluated by the Oslo Sports Trauma Research Centre Overuse Injury Questionnaire (OSTRC). Predictors were evaluated at baseline, and outcomes were continuously monitored during the study period of 3 months. During the study course, 53% of dancers reported the occurrence of a musculoskeletal problem/injury, and dancers suffered from an average of 0.72 injuries over the study period (95% CI: 0.28–1.41), giving a yearly injury rate of 280%. Gender and dance styles were not significantly related to the occurrence of injury. Higher risk for injury was evidenced in older and more experienced dancers. Dynamic balance, as measured by the Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT), was a significant protective factor of injury occurrence, irrespective of age/experience in dance. Knowing the simplicity and applicability of the SEBT, continuous monitoring of dynamic balance in adolescent dancers is encouraged. In order to prevent the occurrence of musculoskeletal problems/injuries in youth dancers, we suggest the incorporation of specific interventions aimed at improving dynamic balance.
Comparison of Vitamin D Levels, Bone Metabolic Marker Levels, and Bone Mineral Density among Patients with Thyroid Disease: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Mat Ali Masliza Hanuni , Tuan Ismail Tuan Salwani , Wan Azman Wan Norlina , Yaacob Najib Majdi , Yahaya Norhayati , Draman Nani , Wan Mohamed Wan Mohd Izani , Abdullah Mohd Shafie , Ibrahim Hanim Afzan , Wan Nik Wan Nor Fazila Hafizan , Mohamed Mafauzy
Published: December 2020

Thyroid hormones have a catabolic effect on bone homeostasis. Hence, this study aimed to evaluate serum vitamin D, calcium, and phosphate and bone marker levels and bone mineral density (BMD) among patients with different thyroid diseases. This cross-sectional study included patients with underlying thyroid diseases (n = 64, hyperthyroid; n = 53 euthyroid; n = 18, hypothyroid) and healthy controls (n = 64). BMD was assessed using z-score and left hip and lumbar bone density (g/cm2). The results showed that the mean serum vitamin D Levels of all groups was low (<50 nmol/L). Thyroid patients had higher serum vitamin D levels than healthy controls. All groups had normal serum calcium and phosphate levels. The carboxy terminal collagen crosslink and procollagen type I N-terminal propeptide levels were high in hyperthyroid patients and low in hypothyroid patients. The z-score for hip and spine did not significantly differ between thyroid patients and control groups. The hip bone density was remarkably low in the hyperthyroid group. In conclusion, this study showed no correlation between serum 25(OH)D levels and thyroid diseases. The bone markers showed a difference between thyroid groups with no significant difference in BMD.
Statistical Features in High-Frequency Bands of Interictal iEEG Work Efficiently in Identifying the Seizure Onset Zone in Patients with Focal Epilepsy
Authors: Akter Most. , Islam Md. , Tanaka Toshihisa , Iimura Yasushi , Mitsuhashi Takumi , Sugano Hidenori , Wang Duo , Molla Md.
Published: December 2020

The design of a computer-aided system for identifying the seizure onset zone (SOZ) from interictal and ictal electroencephalograms (EEGs) is desired by epileptologists. This study aims to introduce the statistical features of high-frequency components (HFCs) in interictal intracranial electroencephalograms (iEEGs) to identify the possible seizure onset zone (SOZ) channels. It is known that the activity of HFCs in interictal iEEGs, including ripple and fast ripple bands, is associated with epileptic seizures. This paper proposes to decompose multi-channel interictal iEEG signals into a number of subbands. For every 20 s segment, twelve features are computed from each subband. A mutual information (MI)-based method with grid search was applied to select the most prominent bands and features. A gradient-boosting decision tree-based algorithm called LightGBM was used to score each segment of the channels and these were averaged together to achieve a final score for each channel. The possible SOZ channels were localized based on the higher value channels. The experimental results with eleven epilepsy patients were tested to observe the efficiency of the proposed design compared to the state-of-the-art methods.
Children’s Literature in Critical Contexts of Displacement: Exploring the Value of Hope
Authors: McAdam Julie E. , Abou Ghaida Susanne , Arizpe Evelyn , Hirsu Lavinia , Motawy Yasmine
Published: December 2020

The article builds upon work carried out through a Children’s Literature in Critical Contexts of Displacement (CLCCD) network funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council–Global Challenges Research Fund. The network brought together academics as well as government and non-governmental organisations with expertise in children’s literature, migration, and education who were actively working in Egypt and Mexico. They collaboratively designed workshops that examined the use of children’s literature as a cultural tool for post-crisis interventions that could contribute to creating a safe space for children and their families to reimagine and restore their self and group identities. This article begins by unravelling the concept of hope, arguing for a critical understanding of hope for transformative use within contexts of flux. Using a critical content analysis approach, five picturebooks used by Egyptian and Mexican mediators were analysed in order to develop an understanding of how critical hope developed within the texts. The emerging themes have been expanded into a set of guiding questions that will enable mediators and educators to use children’s literature in contexts of displacement or precarity.
Low-Cost Distributed Acoustic Sensor Network for Real-Time Urban Sound Monitoring
Authors: Vidaña-Vila Ester , Navarro Joan , Borda-Fortuny Cristina , Stowell Dan , Alsina-Pagès Rosa Ma
Published: December 2020

Continuous exposure to urban noise has been found to be one of the major threats to citizens’ health. In this regard, several organizations are devoting huge efforts to designing new in-field systems to identify the acoustic sources of these threats to protect those citizens at risk. Typically, these prototype systems are composed of expensive components that limit their large-scale deployment and thus reduce the scope of their measurements. This paper aims to present a highly scalable low-cost distributed infrastructure that features a ubiquitous acoustic sensor network to monitor urban sounds. It takes advantage of (1) low-cost microphones deployed in a redundant topology to improve their individual performance when identifying the sound source, (2) a deep-learning algorithm for sound recognition, (3) a distributed data-processing middleware to reach consensus on the sound identification, and (4) a custom planar antenna with an almost isotropic radiation pattern for the proper node communication. This enables practitioners to acoustically populate urban spaces and provide a reliable view of noises occurring in real time. The city of Barcelona (Spain) and the UrbanSound8K dataset have been selected to analytically validate the proposed approach. Results obtained in laboratory tests endorse the feasibility of this proposal.
Multilayer Detection of Network Steganography
Authors: Smolarczyk Milosz , Szczypiorski Krzysztof , Pawluk Jakub
Published: December 2020

This paper presents a new method for steganography detection in network protocols. The method is based on a multilayer approach for the selective analysis of derived and aggregated metrics utilizing machine learning algorithms. The main objective is to provide steganalysis capability for networks with large numbers of devices and connections. We discuss considerations for performance analysis and present results. We also describe a means of applying our method for multilayer detection of a popular RSTEG (Retransmission Steganography) technique.
A Multifunctional Combination Incubator
Authors: Li Shaoying , Qu Zhongquan , Song Zhiming
Published: December 2020

Energy, precision, and multi-functionality have become primary considerations in incubators. For example, if a part of an apparatus must be insulated, while other parts do not, then the specific part can be placed in the multi-functional incubator proposed in this paper to avoid wasting energy. The proposed incubator is composed of various parts including a platform, which is provided for debugging parts to meet the working accuracy of parts. The light windows are adjustable in height to accommodate different heights of light. The incubator is black to prevent stray light in optical experiments. This design can not only insulate but also debug optical or non-optical parts according working accuracy of parts. In this paper, an example incubator is used for an optical experiment was given and the incubator was optimized several times. The temperature fluctuations of the box of the third optimized incubator reached 0.045∘C. To reduce the temperature fluctuations, the relationship between the ambient and target temperature as well as the temperature fluctuations of the box were analyzed, and a formula was proposed. A further experiment provided evidence for this relationship. Based on the formula, the SLITA (small optimized incubator placed in large optimized incubator with the same target temperature) method for improving insulation accuracy was further proposed, and an incubator was designed using this method. The temperature fluctuations were 0.000014∘C by simulation, which was reduced 98.6% compared to previous incubators.
Technological Effectiveness of Sugar-Industry Effluent Methane Fermentation in a Fluidized Active Filling Reactor (FAF-R)
Authors: Dębowski Marcin , Zieliński Marcin
Published: December 2020

Technological solutions allowing the increase of the technological efficiency of anaerobic methods of wastewater treatment are still under investigation. The weaknesses of these solutions can be limited by the use of active fillings. The aim of the present study was to determine the impact of fluidized active filling on the effectiveness of anaerobic treatment of sugar-industry effluent, the production efficiency and the qualitative composition of the biogas produced. High, comparable (p = 0.05) effluent treatment results were observed at tested organic load rates between 4.0 and 6.0 kg COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand)/m3·d. The COD removal rate reached over 74%, biogas yields ranged from 356 ± 25 to 427 ± 14 dm3/kg CODremoved and the average methane contents were approximately 70%. A significant decrease in effluent treatment efficiency and methane fermentation was observed after increasing the organic load rate to 8.0 kg COD/m3·d, which correlated with decreased pH and FOS/TAC (volatile organic acid and buffer capacity ratio) increased to 0.44 ± 0.2. The use of fluidized active filling led to phosphorus removal with an efficiency ranged from 64.4 ± 2.4 to 81.2 ± 8.2% depending on the stage. Low concentration of total suspended solids in the treated effluent was also observed.
An Interval Mathematic-Based Methodology for Reliable Resilience Analysis of Power Systems in the Presence of Data Uncertainties
Authors: Pepiciello Antonio , Vaccaro Alfredo , Lai Loi Lei
Published: December 2020

Prevention and mitigation of low probability, high impact events is becoming a priority for power system operators, as natural disasters are hitting critical infrastructures with increased frequency all over the world. Protecting power networks against these events means improving their resilience in planning, operation and restoration phases. This paper introduces a framework based on time-varying interval Markov Chains to assess system’s resilience to catastrophic events. After recognizing the difficulties in accurately defining transition probabilities, due to the presence of data uncertainty, this paper proposes a novel approach based on interval mathematics, which allows representing the elements of the transition matrices by intervals, and computing reliable enclosures of the transient state probabilities. The proposed framework is validated on a case study, which is based on the resilience analysis of a power system in the presence of multiple contemporary faults. The results show how the proposed framework can successfully enclose all the possible outcomes obtained through Monte Carlo simulation. The main advantages are the low computational burden and high scalability achieved.
The Effect of the HLB Value of Sucrose Ester on Physiochemical Properties of Bigel Systems
Authors: Golodnizky Daniel , Davidovich-Pinhas Maya
Published: December 2020

The current research explored the effect of different sucrose esters (SEs), with different hydrophilic–lipophilic balance (HLB) values, on bigel structure and properties. Bigels consisting of a water phase with glycerol and gelatin and an oil phase with glycerol mono-stearate, lecithin, and SEs with different HLB values were prepared. Rheological and thermal analyses revealed similar gelation-melting transitions governed by glycerol-monostearate crystallization (at ≈55 °C) for all bigel samples. The bigel matrix of the H1 and H2 samples (bigels consisting of SEs with HLBs of 1 and 2, respectively) demonstrated physical gel rheological characteristics of higher elastic and solid-like behavior compared with the H6 sample (bigel consisting SE with HLB 6). A similar trend was observed in the mechanical analysis with respect to hardness, firmness, and spreadability values, which were in the order of H1 > H2 > H6. This behavior was attributed to droplet size observed in the microscopy analysis, revealing significantly smaller droplets in the H1 and H2 samples compared with the H6 sample. These differences in droplet size were attributed to the diffusion kinetics of the low-molecular-weight surfactants. More specifically, the ability of mono-esterified SEs to diffuse faster than fully esterified SEs due to lower molar mass leads to a higher SE content at the oil-in-water (O/W) interface as opposed to the bulk oil phase. The results demonstrate the importance of the interface content in O/W bigel systems, providing an effective way to alter and control the bigel bulk properties.
Combined Effect of Chia, Quinoa and Amaranth Incorporation on the Physico-Chemical, Nutritional and Functional Quality of Fresh Bread
Authors: Miranda-Ramos Karla Carmen , Haros Claudia Monika
Published: December 2020

With regard to constant technological innovations in the bakery sector in order to increase bread nutritional value without affecting its technological and sensory characteristics, we applied pseudocereals/oilseeds to obtain an optimal formulation. A factorial design 33 was used and the independent factors were chia flour (levels: 0, 10, 20% flour basis), quinoa flour (levels: 0, 20, 40% flour basis), and amaranth flour (levels: 0, 20, 40% flour basis). Their effects and interactions were studied through the response surface methodology to optimise the bread formulation from a holistic viewpoint, which included the nutritional, technological and sensory characteristics. The optimum formulation with the highest quality was the blend made with 10, 4, and 20% of chia, quinoa, and amaranth, respectively. The results showed a significant increase in protein amount, ash, lipids, and crumb firmness compared to wheat bread. The calorie value of the control sample and the optimised formula were significantly similar, bearing in mind the high lipid amounts present in raw materials. Loaf-specific volume slightly decreased in comparison to control bread, as expected in formulations with gluten-free raw materials and a large amount of fibre. The optimised formula presented nutritionally/functionally higher indexes and similar overall acceptability to the control bread (p < 0.05).
Effects of Production Region, Production Systems and Grape Type/Variety on Nutritional Quality Parameters of Table Grapes; Results from a UK Retail Survey
Authors: Hasanaliyeva Gultakin , Chatzidimitrou Eleni , Wang Juan , Baranski Marcin , Volakakis Nikolaos , Seal Chris , Rosa Eduardo A. S. , Iversen Per Ole , Vigar Vanessa , Barkla Bronwyn , Leifert Carlo , Rempelos Leonidas
Published: December 2020

Grapes contain high concentrations of secondary metabolites and antioxidants that have been linked to a reduction of several chronic diseases. Here, we report results of a UK retail survey, which investigated the effect of the production region (Mediterranean vs. South Africa), grape type (white vs. red vs. black) and variety, and production system (organic vs. conventional) on antioxidant activity and concentrations of phenolic compounds in table grapes. Black grapes had ~180% total antioxidant activity (TAA), ~60% higher total phenolic content (TPC) and ~40 times higher anthocyanin concentrations (TAC) than white grapes, while red grapes had intermediate levels of TAA, TPC and TAC. The effects of season and production system and differences between varieties of the same grape type were substantially smaller. Grapes imported from Mediterranean countries in summer had a 14% higher TPC and ~20% higher TAA than grapes imported from South Africa in winter, and organic grapes had a 16% higher TPC and 22% higher TAA, but ~30% lower TAC than conventional grapes. Significant differences in TPC, TAA and/or TAC between organic and conventional grapes could only be detected for specific grape types, varieties and/or sampling years.
Classification of Planetary Nebulae through Deep Transfer Learning
Authors: Awang Iskandar Dayang N. F. , Zijlstra Albert A. , McDonald Iain , Abdullah Rosni , Fuller Gary A. , Fauzi Ahmad H. , Abdullah Johari
Published: December 2020

This study investigate the effectiveness of using Deep Learning (DL) for the classification of planetary nebulae (PNe). It focusses on distinguishing PNe from other types of objects, as well as their morphological classification. We adopted the deep transfer learning approach using three ImageNet pre-trained algorithms. This study was conducted using images from the Hong Kong/Australian Astronomical Observatory/Strasbourg Observatory H-alpha Planetary Nebula research platform database (HASH DB) and the Panoramic Survey Telescope and Rapid Response System (Pan-STARRS). We found that the algorithm has high success in distinguishing True PNe from other types of objects even without any parameter tuning. The Matthews correlation coefficient is 0.9. Our analysis shows that DenseNet201 is the most effective DL algorithm. For the morphological classification, we found for three classes, Bipolar, Elliptical and Round, half of objects are correctly classified. Further improvement may require more data and/or training. We discuss the trade-offs and potential avenues for future work and conclude that deep transfer learning can be utilized to classify wide-field astronomical images.