bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnetic Lateral Flow Immunoassays
Authors: Moyano Amanda , Serrano-Pertierra Esther , Salvador María , Martínez-García José Carlos , Rivas Montserrat , Blanco-López M. Carmen
Published: May 2020

A new generation of magnetic lateral flow immunoassays is emerging as powerful tool for diagnostics. They rely on the use of magnetic nanoparticles (MNP) as detecting label, replacing conventional gold or latex beads. MNPs can be sensed and quantified by means of external devices, allowing the development of immunochromatographic tests with a quantitative capability. Moreover, they have an added advantage because they can be used for immunomagnetic separation (IMS), with improvements in selectivity and sensitivity. In this paper, we have reviewed the current knowledge on magnetic-lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA), coupled with both research and commercially available instruments. The work in the literature has been classified in two categories: optical and magnetic sensing. We have analysed the type of magnetic nanoparticles used in each case, their size, coating, crystal structure and the functional groups for their conjugation with biomolecules. We have also taken into account the analytical characteristics and the type of transduction. Magnetic LFIA have been used for the determination of biomarkers, pathogens, toxins, allergens and drugs. Nanocomposites have been developed as alternative to MNP with the purpose of sensitivity enhancement. Moreover, IMS in combination with other detection principles could also improve sensitivity and limit of detection. The critical analysis in this review could have an impact for the future development of magnetic LFIA in fields requiring both rapid separation and quantification.
Utility of Photodynamic Therapy in Dentistry: Current Concepts
Authors: Stájer Anette , Kajári Szilvia , Gajdács Márió , Musah-Eroje Aima , Baráth Zoltán
Published: May 2020

The significant growth in scientific and technological advancements within the field of dentistry has resulted in a wide range of novel treatment modalities for dentists to use. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an emerging, non-invasive treatment method, involving photosensitizers, light of a specific wavelength and the generation of singlet oxygen and reactive oxygen species (ROS) to eliminate unwanted eukaryotic cells (e.g., malignancies in the oral cavity) or pathogenic microorganisms. The aim of this review article is to summarize the history, general concepts, advantages and disadvantages of PDT and to provide examples for current indications of PDT in various subspecialties of dentistry (oral and maxillofacial surgery, oral medicine, endodontics, preventive dentistry, periodontology and implantology), in addition to presenting some images from our own experiences about the clinical success with PDT.
On the Use of Entropy Issues to Evaluate and Control the Transients in Some Epidemic Models
Authors: De la Sen Manuel , Nistal Raul , Ibeas Asier , Garrido Aitor J.
Published: May 2020

This paper studies the representation of a general epidemic model by means of a first-order differential equation with a time-varying log-normal type coefficient. Then the generalization of the first-order differential system to epidemic models with more subpopulations is focused on by introducing the inter-subpopulations dynamics couplings and the control interventions information through the mentioned time-varying coefficient which drives the basic differential equation model. It is considered a relevant tool the control intervention of the infection along its transient to fight more efficiently against a potential initial exploding transmission. The study is based on the fact that the disease-free and endemic equilibrium points and their stability properties depend on the concrete parameterization while they admit a certain design monitoring by the choice of the control and treatment gains and the use of feedback information in the corresponding control interventions. Therefore, special attention is paid to the evolution transients of the infection curve, rather than to the equilibrium points, in terms of the time instants of its first relative maximum towards its previous inflection time instant. Such relevant time instants are evaluated via the calculation of an “ad hoc” Shannon’s entropy. Analytical and numerical examples are included in the study in order to evaluate the study and its conclusions.
A Cross Entropy Based Deep Neural Network Model for Road Extraction from Satellite Images
Authors: Shan Bowei , Fang Yong
Published: May 2020

This paper proposes a deep convolutional neural network model with encoder-decoder architecture to extract road network from satellite images. We employ ResNet-18 and Atrous Spatial Pyramid Pooling technique to trade off between the extraction precision and running time. A modified cross entropy loss function is proposed to train our deep model. A PointRend algorithm is used to recover a smooth, clear and sharp road boundary. The augmentated DeepGlobe dataset is used to train our deep model and the asynchronous training method is applied to accelerate the training process. Five salellite images covering Xiaomu village are taken as input to evaluate our model. The proposed E-Road model has fewer number of parameters and shorter training time. The experiments show E-Road outperforms other state-of-the-art deep models with 5.84% to 59.09% improvement, and can give the accurate predictions for the images with complex environment.
Improved Kalman Filter Variants for UAV Tracking with Radar Motion Models
Authors: Wei Yuan , Hong Tao , Kadoch Michel
Published: May 2020

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) have made a huge influence on our everyday life with maturity of technology and more extensive applications. Tracking UAVs has become more and more significant because of not only their beneficial location-based service, but also their potential threats. UAVs are low-altitude, slow-speed, and small targets, which makes it possible to track them with mobile radars, such as vehicle radars and UAVs with radars. Kalman filter and its variant algorithms are widely used to extract useful trajectory information from data mixed with noise. Applying those filter algorithms in east-north-up (ENU) coordinates with mobile radars causes filter performance degradation. To improve this, we made a derivation on the motion-model consistency of mobile radar with constant velocity. Then, extending common filter algorithms into earth-centered earth-fixed (ECEF) coordinates to filter out random errors is proposed. The theory analysis and simulation shows that the improved algorithms provide more efficiency and compatibility in mobile radar scenes.
CrowdSFL: A Secure Crowd Computing Framework Based on Blockchain and Federated Learning
Authors: Li Ziyuan , Liu Jian , Hao Jialu , Wang Huimei , Xian Ming
Published: May 2020

Over the years, the flourish of crowd computing has enabled enterprises to accomplish computing tasks through crowdsourcing in a large-scale and high-quality manner, and therefore how to efficiently and securely implement crowd computing becomes a hotspot. Some recent work innovatively adopted a P2P (peer-to-peer) network as the communication environment of crowdsourcing. Based on its decentralized control, issues like single-point-of-failure or DDoS attack can be overcome to some extent, but the huge computing capacity and storage costs required by this scheme is always unbearable. Federated learning is a distributed machine learning that supports local storage of data, and clients implement training through interactive gradient values. In our work, we combine blockchain with federated learning and propose a crowdsourcing framework named CrowdSFL, that users can implement crowdsourcing with less overhead and higher security. In addition, to protect the privacy of participants, we design a new re-encryption algorithm based on Elgamal to ensure that interactive values and other information will not be exposed to other participants outside the workflow. Finally, we have proved through experiments that our framework is superior to some similar work in accuracy, efficiency, and overhead.
Transmission Lines in Poland and Space Weather Effects
Authors: Gil Agnieszka , Modzelewska Renata , Moskwa Szczepan , Siluszyk Agnieszka , Siluszyk Marek , Wawrzynczak Anna , Pozoga Mariusz , Domijanski Sebastian
Published: May 2020

We analyze the solar influence of space weather events on Polish energy infrastructure via geomagnetic disturbances. We consider two time intervals of very different levels of solar activity (SA) in the course of the solar activity cycle 24: 2010—an early rising phase of SA, near the solar minimum and 2014—solar maximum. From the total number of electrical grid failures, we extract almost five thousand failures in 2010 and more than ten thousand in 2014, which could be related to space weather effects. We analyze data of failures having unidentified causes, failures coupled with the aging of transmission network elements and electronic devices, which appeared during the time intervals of enhanced geomagnetic activity. We show that around the times of increasing geomagnetic activity level, the amount of transmission lines failures in the groups mentioned above grows, but mostly with some delay. It might be connected to some cumulative effect due to the result of transient states and their propagation in the distribution network. Although we do not exclude that the other factors may play a role, the solar-originating disturbances strengthen these effects.
Do Machine Learning Techniques and Dynamic Methods Help Forecast US Natural Gas Crises?
Authors: Zhang Wenting , Hamori Shigeyuki
Published: May 2020

Our study combines machine learning techniques and dynamic moving window and expanding window methods to predict crises in the US natural gas market. Specifically, as machine learning models, we employ extreme gradient boosting (XGboost), support vector machines (SVMs), a logistic regression (LogR), random forests (RFs), and neural networks (NNs). The data set used to develop the model covers the period 1994 to 2019 and contains 121 explanatory variables, including those related to crude oil, stock markets, US bond and gold futures, the CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) index, and agriculture futures. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to combine machine learning techniques with dynamic approaches to predict US natural gas crises. To improve the model’s prediction accuracy, we applied a suite of parameter-tuning methods (e.g., grid-search) to select the best-performing hyperparameters for each model. Our empirical results demonstrated very good prediction accuracy for US natural gas crises when combining the XGboost model with the dynamic moving window method. We believe our findings will be useful to investors wanting to diversify their portfolios, as well as to policymakers wanting to take preemptive action to reduce losses.
An Optimal Day-Ahead Thermal Generation Scheduling Method to Enhance Total Transfer Capability for the Sending-Side System with Large-Scale Wind Power Integration
Authors: Zhang Yuwei , Liu Wenying , Huan Yue , Zhou Qiang , Wang Ningbo
Published: May 2020

The rapidly increasing penetration of wind power into sending-side systems makes the wind power curtailment problem more severe. Enhancing the total transfer capability (TTC) of the transmission channel allows more wind power to be delivered to the load center; therefore, the curtailed wind power can be reduced. In this paper, a new method is proposed to enhance TTC, which works by optimizing the day-ahead thermal generation schedules. First, the impact of thermal generation plant/unit commitment on TTC is analyzed. Based on this, the day-ahead thermal generation scheduling rules to enhance TTC are proposed herein, and the corresponding optimization models are established and solved. Then, the optimal day-ahead thermal generation scheduling method to enhance TTC is formed. The proposed method was validated on the large-scale wind power base sending-side system in Gansu Province in China; the results indicate that the proposed method can significantly enhance TTC, and therefore, reduce the curtailed wind power.
An Algorithm for Recognition of Fault Conditions in the Utility Grid with Renewable Energy Penetration
Authors: Yogee Govind Sahay , Mahela Om Prakash , Kansal Kapil Dev , Khan Baseem , Mahla Rajendra , Haes Alhelou Hassan , Siano Pierluigi
Published: May 2020

Penetration level of renewable energy (RE) in the utility grid is continuously increasing to minimize the environmental concerns, risk of energy security, and depletion of fossil fuels. The uncertain nature and availability of RE power for a short duration have created problems related to the protection, grid security, power reliability, and power quality. Further, integration of RE sources near the load centers has also pronounced the protection issues, such as false tripping, delayed tripping, etc. Hence, this paper introduces a hybrid grid protection scheme (HGPS) for the protection of the grid with RE integration. This combines the merits of the Stockwell Transform, Hilbert Transform, and Alienation Coefficient to improve performance of the protection scheme. The Stockwell Transform-based Median and Summation Index (SMSI) utilizing current signals, Hilbert Transform-based derivative index (HDI) utilizing voltage signals, and Alienation Coefficient index (ACI) utilizing voltage signals were used to compute a proposed Stockwell Transform-, Hilbert Transform-, and Alienation-based fault index (SAHFI). This SAHFI was used to recognize the fault conditions. The fault conditions were categorized using the number of faulty phases and the proposed Stockwell Transform and Hilbert Transform-based ground fault index (SHGFI) utilizing zero sequence currents. The fault conditions, such as phase and ground (PGF), any two phases (TPF), any two phases and ground (TPGF), all three phases (ATPF), and all three phases and ground (ATPGF), were recognized effectively, using the proposed SAHFI. The proposed method has the following merits: performance is least affected by the noise, it is effective in recognizing fault conditions in minimum time, and it is also effective in recognizing the fault conditions in different scenarios of the grid. Performance of the proposed approach was found to be superior compared to the discrete wavelet transform (DWT)-based method reported in the literature. The study was performed using the hybrid grid test system realized by integrating wind and solar photovoltaic (PV) plants to the IEEE-13 nodes network in MATLAB software.
Voltage Estimation Method for Power Distribution Networks Using High-Precision Measurements
Authors: Oh Chan-Hyeok , Go Seok-Il , Choi Joon-Ho , Ahn Seon-Ju , Yun Sang-Yun
Published: May 2020

In this study, we propose a voltage estimation method for the radial distribution network with distributed generators (DGs) using high-precision measurements (HPMs). The proposed method uses the section loads center for voltage estimation because individual loads are not measured in the distribution system. The bus voltage was estimated through correction of the section load center by using an HPM at the end of the main feeder. The correction parameter of the section load center was calculated by comparing the initial voltage estimates and the measurements of the HPMs. After that, the voltage of the main feeder was re-estimated. Finally, the bus voltage in the lateral feeder was estimated based on the voltage estimates in the main feeder and the current measurements in the lateral feeder. The accuracy of the proposed algorithm was verified through case studies by using test systems implemented in MATLAB, Simulink, and Python environments. In order to verify the utilization of the proposed method to the practical system, a test with injection of approximately 5% of normally distributed random noise was performed. Through the results of the case studies, when an HPM is installed at the end of the main feeder, it demonstrated that the voltage estimation accuracy can be greatly improved by the proposed method. Compared with the existing methods, the proposed method was less affected by PV and showed robustness to measurement noise.
An Optimal Fast-Charging Strategy for Lithium-Ion Batteries via an Electrochemical–Thermal Model with Intercalation-Induced Stresses and Film Growth
Authors: Chen Guangwei , Liu Zhitao , Su Hongye
Published: May 2020

Optimal fast charging is an important factor in battery management systems (BMS). Traditional charging strategies for lithium-ion batteries, such as the constant current–constant voltage (CC–CV) pattern, do not take capacity aging mechanisms into account, which are not only disadvantageous in the life-time usage of the batteries, but also unsafe. In this paper, we employ the dynamic optimization (DP) method to achieve the optimal charging current curve for a lithium-ion battery by introducing limits on the intercalation-induced stresses and the solid–liquid interface film growth based on an electrochemical–thermal model. Furthermore, the backstepping technique is utilized to control the temperature to avoid overheating. This paper concentrates on solving the issue of minimizing charging time in a given target State of Charge (SoC), while limiting the capacity loss caused by intercalation-induced stresses and film formation. The results indicate that the proposed optimal charging method in this paper offers a good compromise between the charging time and battery aging.
Time-Varying Relationship between Crude Oil Price and Exchange Rate in the Context of Structural Breaks
Authors: Liu Yue , Failler Pierre , Peng Jiaying , Zheng Yuhang
Published: May 2020

This paper examines the dynamic relationship between crude oil prices and the U.S. exchange rate within the structural break detection context. Based on monthly data from January 1996 to April 2019, this paper identifies structural breaks in movements of oil price and examines the dynamic relationship between crude oil prices and the U.S. exchange rate movement by introducing the economic policy uncertainty and using the TVP-VAR (Time-Varying Parameter-Vector Auto Regression ) model. Empirical results indicate that shocks to crude oil prices have immediate and short-term impacts on movements in the exchange rate which are emphasized during the confidence intervals of structural breaks. Oil price shocks and economic policy uncertainty are interrelated and influence movements in the U.S. exchange rate. Since the U.S. dollar is the main currency of the international oil market and the U.S. has become a major exporter of crude oil, the transmission of price shocks to the U.S. exchange rate becomes complicated. In most cases, the relationship between oil prices and the U.S. exchange rate movements is negative.
A Comprehensive Analysis of Energy and Daylighting Impact of Window Shading Systems and Control Strategies on Commercial Buildings in the United States
Authors: Kunwar Niraj , Bhandari Mahabir
Published: May 2020

Commercial buildings consume approximately 1.9 EJ of energy in the United States, 50% of which is for heating, cooling, and lighting applications. It is estimated that windows contribute up to 34% of the energy used for heating and cooling. However, window retrofits are not often undertaken to increase energy efficiency because of the high cost and disruptive nature of window installation. Highly efficient window technologies would also need shading devices for glare prevention and visual comfort. An automated window shading system with an appropriate control strategy is a technology that can reduce energy demand, maintain occupant comfort, and enhance the aesthetics and privacy of the built environment. However, the benefits of the automated shades currently used by the shading industry are not well studied. The topic merits an analysis that will help building owners, designers and engineers, and utilities make informed decisions using knowledge of the impact of this technology on energy consumption, peak demand, daylighting, and occupant comfort. This study uses integrated daylight and whole-building energy simulation to evaluate the performance of various control strategies that the shading industry uses in commercial office buildings. The analysis was performed for three different vintages of medium office buildings at six different locations in United States. The results obtained show the control strategies enabled cooling energy savings of up to 40% using exterior shading, and lighting energy savings of up to 25%. The control strategies described can help building engineers and researchers explore different control methods used to control shading in actual buildings but rarely discussed in the literature. This information will give researchers the opportunity to investigate potential improvements in current technologies and their performance.
Optimal Allocation of Distributed Generation Considering Protection
Authors: Bakr Hamza M. , Shaaban Mostafa F. , Osman Ahmed H. , Sindi Hatem F.
Published: May 2020

The integration of distributed generation (DG) into the power grid has increased in recent years due to its techno-economic benefits for utilities and consumers. However, due to the fact that distribution systems were not originally designed to accommodate such DG units, many challenges are being faced by utilities to seamlessly integrate them into their systems. One of the critical challenges is their effect on protection system settings and coordination. The DG units will affect the pickup current settings of the protection relays, coordination between the primary and secondary relays, and even the direction of the fault current. Failing to consider DG’s effect on the protection system may lead to serious equipment damage or system failure, causing huge financial setbacks for utilities. To that end, this work proposes a new dynamic approach to optimally allocate different types of DG units over the planning horizon. The objective is to minimize the overall costs of the system while taking into consideration the intermittent nature of renewable DG and the impacts on the protection system. Simulation results have been developed on a typical distribution system to prove the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Chemical Composition of Wild Fallow Deer (Dama Dama) Meat from South Africa: A Preliminary Evaluation
Authors: Cawthorn Donna-Mareè , Fitzhenry Leon Brett , Kotrba Radim , Bureš Daniel , Hoffman Louwrens C.
Published: May 2020

Although fallow deer are abundant in South Africa, these cervids remain undervalued as a domestic protein source and little information exists on their meat quality. This study aimed to evaluate the proximate and mineral compositions of the meat from wild fallow deer (n = 6 male, n = 6 female) harvested in South Africa, as affected by sex and muscle. Proximate analyses were conducted on six muscles (longissimus thoracis et lumborum [LTL], biceps femoris [BF], semimembranosus [SM], semitendinosus [ST], infraspinatus [IS], supraspinatus [SS]), whereas mineral analyses were conducted on the LTL and BF. The proximate composition of the muscles ranged from 73.3–76.2% moisture, 20.4–23.1% protein, 2.2–3.2% fat, and 1.1–1.5% ash. Proximate composition was significantly (p ≤ 0.05) influenced by muscle, but not by sex. The primary essential macro- and micro-minerals determined in the LTL and BF were potassium, phosphorus, sodium, and magnesium, as well as iron, zinc, and copper, with more variation in concentrations occurring with muscle than with sex. Minerals in the muscles contributing most notably to human recommended dietary requirements were potassium, iron, copper, and zinc. These findings indicate that wild fallow deer meat is a nutritious food source and should enhance utilisation of such products.
A Method for Generating the Centerline of an Elongated Polygon on the Example of a Watercourse
Authors: Lewandowicz Elżbieta , Flisek Paweł
Published: May 2020

The centerlines of polygons can be generated with the use of various methods. The aim of this study was to propose an algorithm for generating the centerline of an elongated polygon based on the transformation of vector data. The proposed method involves the determination of base points denoting the direction of river flow. These points were also used to map two polygon boundaries. A Triangulated Irregular Network (TIN) was created based on the polygon’s breakpoints. Edges that intersect the river channel in a direction perpendicular to river flow (across) were selected from a set of TIN edges. The polygon was partitioned into segments with the use of the selected TIN edges. The midpoints of selected TIN edges were used to generate the polygon’s centerline based on topological relations. The presented methodology was tested on a polygon representing a 15-km-long section of a river intersecting the city of Olsztyn (a university center). The analyzed river is a highly meandering watercourse, and its channel is narrowed down by hydraulic structures. The river features an island and distributary channels. The generated centerline effectively fits the polygon, and, unlike the solution modeled with the Medial Axis Transformation (MAT) algorithm, it does not feature branching streams.
Different Mechanisms of Action of Regorafenib and Lenvatinib on Toll-Like Receptor-Signaling Pathways in Human Hepatoma Cell Lines
Authors: Sasaki Reina , Kanda Tatsuo , Fujisawa Mariko , Matsumoto Naoki , Masuzaki Ryota , Ogawa Masahiro , Matsuoka Shunichi , Kuroda Kazumichi , Moriyama Mitsuhiko
Published: May 2020

Multiple kinase inhibitors are available for patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). It is largely unknown whether regorafenib or lenvatinib modulates innate immunity including Toll-like receptor (TLR)-signaling pathways in HCC. We performed real-time RT-PCR to investigate 84 TLR-associated gene expression levels and compared these gene expression levels in each hepatoma cells treated with or without regorafenib or lenvatinib. In response to regorafenib, nine and 10 genes were upregulated in Huh7 and HepG2 cells, respectively, and only C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 10 was upregulated in both cell lines. A total of 14 and 12 genes were downregulated in Huh7 and HepG2 cells, respectively, and two genes (Fos proto-oncogene, AP-1 transcription factor subunit, and ubiquitin conjugating enzyme E2 N) were downregulated in both cell lines. In response to lenvatinib, four and 16 genes were upregulated in Huh7 and HepG2 cells, respectively, and two genes (interleukin 1 alpha and TLR4) were upregulated in both cells. Six and one genes were downregulated in Huh7 and HepG2, respectively, and no genes were downregulated in both cell lines. In summary, regorafenib and lenvatinib affect TLR signaling pathways in human hepatoma cell lines. Modulation of TLR signaling pathway may improve the treatment of HCC patients with refractory disease.
Recent Advances in Porphyrin-Based Inorganic Nanoparticles for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Montaseri Hanieh , Kruger Cherie Ann , Abrahamse Heidi
Published: May 2020

The application of porphyrins and their derivatives have been investigated extensively over the past years for phototherapy cancer treatment. Phototherapeutic Porphyrins have the ability to generate high levels of reactive oxygen with a low dark toxicity and these properties have made them robust photosensitizing agents. In recent years, Porphyrins have been combined with various nanomaterials in order to improve their bio-distribution. These combinations allow for nanoparticles to enhance photodynamic therapy (PDT) cancer treatment and adding additional nanotheranostics (photothermal therapy—PTT) as well as enhance photodiagnosis (PDD) to the reaction. This review examines various porphyrin-based inorganic nanoparticles developed for phototherapy nanotheranostic cancer treatment over the last three years (2017 to 2020). Furthermore, current challenges in the development and future perspectives of porphyrin-based nanomedicines for cancer treatment are also highlighted.
Morphometric, Hemodynamic, and Multi-Omics Analyses in Heart Failure Rats with Preserved Ejection Fraction
Authors: Zhang Wenxi , Zhang Huan , Yao Weijuan , Li Li , Niu Pei , Huo Yunlong , Tan Wenchang
Published: May 2020

(1) Background: There are no successive treatments for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) because of complex interactions between environmental, histological, and genetic risk factors. The objective of the study is to investigate changes in cardiomyocytes and molecular networks associated with HFpEF. (2) Methods: Dahl salt-sensitive (DSS) rats developed HFpEF when fed with a high-salt (HS) diet for 7 weeks, which was confirmed by in vivo and ex vivo measurements. Shotgun proteomics, microarray, Western blot, and quantitative RT-PCR analyses were further carried out to investigate cellular and molecular mechanisms. (3) Results: Rats with HFpEF showed diastolic dysfunction, impaired systolic function, and prolonged repolarization of myocytes, owing to an increase in cell size and apoptosis of myocytes. Heatmap of multi-omics further showed significant differences between rats with HFpEF and controls. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) of multi-omics revealed genetic risk factors involved in cardiac muscle contraction, proteasome, B cell receptor signaling, and p53 signaling pathway. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis of multi-omics showed the inflammatory response and mitochondrial fission as top biological processes that may deteriorate myocyte stiffening. GO analysis of protein-to-protein network indicated cytoskeleton protein, cell fraction, enzyme binding, and ATP binding as the top enriched molecular functions. Western blot validated upregulated Mff and Itga9 and downregulated Map1lc3a in the HS group, which likely contributed to accumulation of aberrant mitochondria to increase ROS and elevation of myocyte stiffness, and subsequent contractile dysfunction and myocardial apoptosis. (4) Conclusions: Multi-omics analysis revealed multiple pathways associated with HFpEF. This study shows insight into molecular mechanisms for the development of HFpEF and may provide potential targets for the treatment of HFpEF.
SERS-Based Biosensors for Virus Determination with Oligonucleotides as Recognition Elements
Authors: Ambartsumyan Oganes , Gribanyov Dmitry , Kukushkin Vladimir , Kopylov Alexey , Zavyalova Elena
Published: May 2020

Viral infections are among the main causes of morbidity and mortality of humans; sensitive and specific diagnostic methods for the rapid identification of viral pathogens are required. Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is one of the most promising techniques for routine analysis due to its excellent sensitivity, simple and low-cost instrumentation and minimal required sample preparation. The outstanding sensitivity of SERS is achieved due to tiny nanostructures which must be assembled before or during the analysis. As for specificity, it may be provided using recognition elements. Antibodies, complimentary nucleic acids and aptamers are the most usable recognition elements for virus identification. Here, SERS-based biosensors for virus identification with oligonucleotides as recognition elements are reviewed, and the potential of these biosensors is discussed.
A Novel Zinc Chelator, 1H10, Ameliorates Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis by Modulating Zinc Toxicity and AMPK Activation
Authors: Choi Bo Young , Jeong Jeong Hyun , Eom Jae-Won , Koh Jae-Young , Kim Yang-Hee , Suh Sang Won
Published: May 2020

Previous studies in our lab revealed that chemical zinc chelation or zinc transporter 3 (ZnT3) gene deletion suppresses the clinical features and neuropathological changes associated with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). In addition, although protective functions are well documented for AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), paradoxically, disease-promoting effects have also been demonstrated for this enzyme. Recent studies have demonstrated that AMPK contributes to zinc-induced neurotoxicity and that 1H10, an inhibitor of AMPK, reduces zinc-induced neuronal death and protects against oxidative stress, excitotoxicity, and apoptosis. Here, we sought to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of 1H10 against myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein 35-55-induced EAE. 1H10 (5 μg/kg) was intraperitoneally injected once per day for the entire experimental course. Histological evaluation was performed three weeks after the initial immunization. We found that 1H10 profoundly reduced the severity of the induced EAE and that there was a remarkable suppression of demyelination, microglial activation, and immune cell infiltration. 1H10 also remarkably inhibited EAE-associated blood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption, MMP-9 activation, and aberrant synaptic zinc patch formation. Furthermore, the present study showed that long-term treatment with 1H10 also reduced the clinical course of EAE. Therefore, the present study suggests that zinc chelation and AMPK inhibition with 1H10 may have great therapeutic potential for the treatment of multiple sclerosis.
Effects of PDE3 Inhibitor Olprinone on the Respiratory Parameters, Inflammation, and Apoptosis in an Experimental Model of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Kosutova Petra , Mikolka Pavol , Balentova Sona , Adamkov Marian , Calkovska Andrea , Mokra Daniela
Published: May 2020

This study aimed to investigate whether a selective phosphodiesterase-3 (PDE3) inhibitor olprinone can positively influence the inflammation, apoptosis, and respiratory parameters in animals with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) model induced by repetitive saline lung lavage. Adult rabbits were divided into 3 groups: ARDS without therapy (ARDS), ARDS treated with olprinone i.v. (1 mg/kg; ARDS/PDE3), and healthy ventilated controls (Control), and were oxygen-ventilated for the following 4 h. Dynamic lung–thorax compliance (Cdyn), mean airway pressure (MAP), arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2), alveolar-arterial gradient (AAG), ratio between partial pressure of oxygen in arterial blood to a fraction of inspired oxygen (PaO2/FiO2), oxygenation index (OI), and ventilation efficiency index (VEI) were evaluated every hour. Post mortem, inflammatory and oxidative markers (interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, a receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), IL-10, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), 3-nitrotyrosine (3NT), and malondialdehyde (MDA) and apoptosis (apoptotic index and caspase-3) were assessed in the lung tissue. Treatment with olprinone reduced the release of inflammatory mediators and markers of oxidative damage decreased apoptosis of epithelial cells and improved respiratory parameters. The results indicate a future potential of PDE3 inhibitors also in the therapy of ARDS.
The Interplay between MicroRNAs and the Components of the Tumor Microenvironment in B-Cell Malignancies
Authors: El-Daly Sherien M. , Bayraktar Recep , Anfossi Simone , Calin George A.
Published: May 2020

An increased focus is being placed on the tumorigenesis and contexture of tumor microenvironment in hematopoietic and solid tumors. Despite recent clinical revolutions in adoptive T-cell transfer approaches and immune checkpoint blockade, tumor microenvironment is a major obstacle to tumor regression in B-cell malignancies. A transcriptional alteration of coding and non-coding RNAs, such as microRNAs (miRNAs), has been widely demonstrated in the tumor microenvironment of B-cell malignancies. MiRNAs have been associated with different clinical-biological forms of B-cell malignancies and involved in the regulation of B lymphocyte development, maturation, and function, including B-cell activation and malignant transformation. Additionally, tumor-secreted extracellular vesicles regulate recipient cell functions in the tumor microenvironment to facilitate metastasis and progression by delivering miRNA contents to neighboring cells. Herein, we focus on the interplay between miRNAs and tumor microenvironment components in the different B-cell malignancies and its impact on diagnosis, proliferation, and involvement in treatment resistance.
Characteristic Analysis of Homo- and Heterodimeric Complexes of Human Mitochondrial Pyruvate Carrier Related to Metabolic Diseases
Authors: Lee Jinyi , Jin Zeyu , Lee Donghan , Yun Ji-Hye , Lee Weontae
Published: May 2020

Human mitochondrial pyruvate carriers (hMPCs), which are required for the uptake of pyruvate into mitochondria, are associated with several metabolic diseases, including type 2 diabetes and various cancers. Yeast MPC was recently demonstrated to form a functional unit of heterodimers. However, human MPC-1 (hMPC-1) and MPC-2 (hMPC-2) have not yet been individually isolated for their detailed characterization, in particular in terms of their structural and functional properties, namely, whether they exist as homo- or heterodimers. In this study, hMPC-1 and hMPC-2 were successfully isolated in micelles and they formed stable homodimers. However, the heterodimer state was found to be dominant when both hMPC-1 and hMPC-2 were present. In addition, as heterodimers, the molecules exhibited a higher binding capacity to both substrates and inhibitors, together with a larger structural stability than when they existed as homodimers. Taken together, our results demonstrated that the hetero-dimerization of hMPCs is the main functional unit of the pyruvate metabolism, providing a structural insight into the transport mechanisms of hMPCs.
Functional Identification of Px-fringe and Px-engrailed Genes under Heat Stress in Chlorpyrifos-Resistant and -Susceptible Plutela xylostella (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae)
Authors: Wang Yu , Wang Jingnan , Xia Xiaofeng , Wu Gang
Published: May 2020

In our previous research, the fitness cost of resistance of the diamondback moth (DBM), Plutella xylostella found in insecticide-resistant DBM (Rc-DBM) under heat stress was based on heavier damage to wing veins when compared to insecticide-susceptible DBM (Sm-DBM). To investigate the molecular mechanism of the damage to the veins between Rc- and Sm-DBM, the full-length sequences of two related genes involved in the development of wing veins, fringe (Px-fng) and engrailed (Px-en) of DBM were cloned, and the mRNA expressions of both Px-fng and Px-en were studied. The Px-fng and Px-en cDNA contained 1038 bp and 1152 bp of open reading frames (ORFs), respectively, which encoded a putative protein comprising 345 and 383 amino acids with a calculated molecular weight of 39.59 kDa and 42.69 kDa. Significantly down regulated expressions of Px-fng and Px-en under heat stress were found in pupae and adults of Rc-DBM compared to Sm-DBM, and a result of higher damage to wing veins in Rc-DBM under heat stress. Based on RNAi experiments, significant inhibitions on expressions of Px-fng and Px-en in both Sm-DBM and Rc-DBM were found when the pupae were infected by dsFng or dsEn. Corresponding to these, infections of dsFng or dsEn resulted in significant decrease of eclosion rate and increase malformation rate of DBM. Our results suggest that the higher damage of wing veins in DBM might be related to the heavier inhibitions of Px-fng and Px-en expression, and the Px-fng and Px-en are involved in the development of wings and veins.
Intraguild Predation between Chrysoperla carnea (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) and Hippodamia variegata (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) at Various Extraguild Prey Densities and Arena Complexities
Authors: Zarei Maryam , Madadi Hossein , Zamani Abbas Ali , Nedvěd Oldřich
Published: May 2020

Intraguild predation (IGP) is a ubiquitous, important and common interaction that occurs in aphidophagous guilds. The effects of extraguild prey (EGP, i.e., aphids) density, predator life stage combinations and duration of the interaction on the level, asymmetry and direction of intraguild predation between lacewing Chrysoperla carnea and ladybird Hippodamia variegata were examined in simple laboratory arena and more complex microcosm environment. Three initial densities of 50, 150 and 400 Aphis fabae third instar nymphs and a control without aphids were provided to six combinations of predator life stages (2nd and 3rd larval instars of lacewing and 3rd and 4th instars and adult females of ladybird). The remaining aphid density and occurrence of IGP were checked after 24, 48 and 72 h. The IGP intensity (IGP level, IL) was similar in the simple arena (reaching 0.6 between larvae in absence of EGP and 0.3 between lacewing larvae and ladybird females) and microcosm environment (0.3 without EGP). In both environments, increasing EGP density lowered IL according to negative exponential relationship. IGP was asymmetric (general average asymmetry was 0.82 in simple arena and 0.93 in microcosm, the difference was not significant) and mostly in favour of larvae of C. carnea, except in the combination of 2nd larvae of C. carnea with the 4th larvae and adults of H. variegata. The direction of IGP, but not other characteristics, partially changed during the duration of the experiment. The incidence of IGP interactions among aphid predators under real conditions and its consequences on aphid biological control are discussed.
Precision Diagnostics by Affinity-Mass Spectrometry: A Novel Approach for Fetal Growth Restriction Screening during Pregnancy
Authors: Okai Charles A. , Russ Manuela , Wölter Manja , Andresen Kristin , Rath Werner , Glocker Michael O. , Pecks Ulrich
Published: May 2020

Fetal growth restriction (FGR) affects about 3% to 8% of pregnancies, leading to higher perinatal mortality and morbidity. Current strategies for detecting fetal growth impairment are based on ultrasound inspections. However, antenatal detection rates are insufficient and critical in countries with substandard care. To overcome difficulties with detection and to better discriminate between high risk FGR and low risk small for gestational age (SGA) fetuses, we investigated the suitability of risk assessment based on the analysis of a recently developed proteome profile derived from maternal serum in different study groups. Maternal serum, collected at around 31 weeks of gestation, was analyzed in 30 FGR, 15 SGA, and 30 control (CTRL) pregnant women who delivered between 31 and 40 weeks of gestation. From the 75 pregnant women of this study, 2 were excluded because of deficient raw data and 2 patients could not be grouped due to indeterminate results. Consistency between proteome profile and sonography results was obtained for 59 patients (26 true positive and 33 true negative). Of the proteome profiling 12 contrarious grouped individuals, 3 were false negative and 9 were false positive cases with respect to ultrasound data. Both true positive and false positive grouping transfer the respective patients to closer surveillance and thorough pregnancy management. Accuracy of the test is considered high with an area-under-curve value of 0.88 in receiver-operator-characteristics analysis. Proteome profiling by affinity-mass spectrometry during pregnancy provides a reliable method for risk assessment of impaired development in fetuses and consumes just minute volumes of maternal peripheral blood. In addition to clinical testing proteome profiling by affinity-mass spectrometry may improve risk assessment, referring pregnant women to specialists early, thereby improving perinatal outcomes.
The Preventive Role of Regular Physical Training in Ventricular Remodeling, Serum Cardiac Markers, and Exercise Performance Changes in Breast Cancer in Women Undergoing Trastuzumab Therapy—An REH-HER Study
Authors: Hojan Katarzyna , Procyk Danuta , Horyńska-Kęstowicz Dorota , Leporowska Ewa , Litwiniuk Maria
Published: May 2020

Cardiotoxicity is known as a severe clinical problem in oncological practice that reduces the options for cancer therapy. Physical exercise is recognized as a well-established protective measure for many heart and cancer diseases. In our study, we hypothesized that supervised and moderate-intensity exercise training would prevent heart failure and its consequences induced by trastuzumab therapy. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of physical training on ventricular remodeling, serum cardiac markers, and exercise performance in women with human epidermal growth receptor 2 (HER2+) breast cancer (BC) undergoing trastuzumab therapy. This was a prospective, randomized, clinical controlled trial. Forty-six BC women were randomized into either an intervention group (IG) or a control group (CG). An exercise program (IG) was performed after 3–6 months of trastuzumab therapy at 5 d/week (to 80% maximum heart rate (HRmax)) for 9 weeks. We then evaluated their cardiac function using echocardiography, a 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), and plasma parameters (C-reactive protein (CRP), myoglobin (MYO), interleukin-6 (IL-6), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and creatine kinase (CK)). After the physical training program, we did not observe any significant changes in the left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (LVEF) and 6MWT (p > 0.05) in the IG compared to the CG (decrease p < 0.05). The differences in the blood parameters were not significant (p < 0.05). To conclude, moderate-intensity exercise training prevented a decrease in the LVEF and physical capacity during trastuzumab therapy in HER2+ BC. Further research is needed to validate our results.
The Area and Number of Intraretinal Cystoid Spaces Predict the Visual Outcome after Ranibizumab Monotherapy in Diabetic Macular Edema
Authors: Nagai Norihiro , Suzuki Misa , Uchida Atsuro , Kurihara Toshihide , Ban Norimitsu , Minami Sakiko , Shinoda Hajime , Tsubota Kazuo , Ozawa Yoko
Published: May 2020

Visual outcomes in diabetic macular edema (DME) after anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy vary across individuals. We retrospectively reviewed the clinical records for 46 treatment-naive eyes of 46 patients with DME who underwent intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR) monotherapy with a pro re nata regimen for 12 months. Overall, mean best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improved. Multivariate analyses adjusted for age and baseline BCVA showed that the area ratio, compared with the retinal area, and the number of intraretinal cystoid spaces evaluated on OCT (optical coherence tomography) images at baseline positively correlated with LogMAR BCVA and the extents of ellipsoid zone and external limiting membrane disruption at 12 months, and negatively correlated with central retinal thickness at the time of edema resolution. Therefore, a high area ratio and large number of intraretinal cystoid spaces resulted in a disorganized outer retinal structure at 12 months, a thin and atrophic retina after edema resolution, and a worse visual outcome. The area ratio and number of intraretinal cystoid spaces on initial OCT images were predictors of the visual outcome after IVR therapy in DME irrespective of baseline age and BCVA. The factors were related to retinal neurodegenerative changes in DME and could help in obtaining proper informed consent before treatment.
Targeting the C-Terminal Domain Small Phosphatase 1
Authors: Rallabandi Harikrishna Reddy , Ganesan Palanivel , Kim Young Jun
Published: May 2020

The human C-terminal domain small phosphatase 1 (CTDSP1/SCP1) is a protein phosphatase with a conserved catalytic site of DXDXT/V. CTDSP1’s major activity has been identified as dephosphorylation of the 5th Ser residue of the tandem heptad repeat of the RNA polymerase II C-terminal domain (RNAP II CTD). It is also implicated in various pivotal biological activities, such as acting as a driving factor in repressor element 1 (RE-1)-silencing transcription factor (REST) complex, which silences the neuronal genes in non-neuronal cells, G1/S phase transition, and osteoblast differentiation. Recent findings have denoted that negative regulation of CTDSP1 results in suppression of cancer invasion in neuroglioma cells. Several researchers have focused on the development of regulating materials of CTDSP1, due to the significant roles it has in various biological activities. In this review, we focused on this emerging target and explored the biological significance, challenges, and opportunities in targeting CTDSP1 from a drug designing perspective.