bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epileptiform Neuronal Discharges Impair Astrocyte Syncytial Isopotentiality in Acute Hippocampal Slices
Authors: Wang Qi , Wang Wei , Aten Sydney , Kiyoshi Conrad M. , Du Yixing , Zhou Min
Published: April 2020

Astrocyte syncytial isopotentiality is a physiological mechanism resulting from a strong electrical coupling among astrocytes. We have previously shown that syncytial isopotentiality exists as a system-wide feature that coordinates astrocytes into a system for high efficient regulation of brain homeostasis. Neuronal activity is known to regulate gap junction coupling through alteration of extracellular ions and neurotransmitters. However, the extent to which epileptic neuronal activity impairs the syncytial isopotentiality is unknown. Here, the neuronal epileptiform bursts were induced in acute hippocampal slices by removal of Mg2+ (Mg2+ free) from bath solution and inhibition of γ-aminobutyric acid A (GABAA) receptors by 100 µM picrotoxin (PTX). The change in syncytial coupling was monitored by using a K+ free-Na+-containing electrode solution ([Na+]p) in the electrophysiological recording where the substitution of intracellular K+ by Na+ ions dissipates the physiological membrane potential (VM) to ~0 mV in the recorded astrocyte. However, in a syncytial coupled astrocyte, the [Na+]p induced VM loss can be compensated by the coupled astrocytes to a quasi-physiological membrane potential of ~73 mV. After short-term exposure to this experimental epileptic condition, a significant closure of syncytial coupling was indicated by a shift of the quasi-physiological membrane potential to −60 mV, corresponding to a 90% reduction of syncytial coupling strength. Consequently, the closure of syncytial coupling significantly decreased the ability of the syncytium for spatial redistribution of K+ ions. Altogether, our results show that epileptiform neuronal discharges weaken the strength of syncytial coupling and that in turn impairs the capacity of a syncytium for spatial redistribution of K+ ions.
Attenuation of the Hypoxia Inducible Factor Pathway after Oncolytic Adenovirus Infection Coincides with Decreased Vessel Perfusion
Authors: Yousaf Iris , Kaeppler Jakob , Frost Sally , Seymour Len W. , Jacobus Egon J.
Published: April 2020

The interplay between oncolytic virus infection and tumour hypoxia is particularly unexplored in vivo, although hypoxia is present in virtually all solid carcinomas. In this study, oncolytic adenovirus infection foci were found within pimonidazole-reactive, oxygen-poor areas in a colorectal xenograft tumour, where the expression of VEGF, a target gene of the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF), was attenuated. We hypothesised that adenovirus infection interferes with the HIF-signalling axis in the hypoxic tumour niche, possibly modifying the local vascular supply. In vitro, enadenotucirev (EnAd), adenovirus 11p and adenovirus 5 decreased the protein expression of HIF-1α only during the late phase of the viral life cycle by transcriptional down-regulation and not post-translational regulation. The decreasing HIF levels resulted in the down-regulation of angiogenic factors such as VEGF, coinciding with reduced endothelial tube formation but also increased T-cell activation in conditioned media transfer experiments. Using intravital microscopy, a decreased perfused vessel volume was observed in infected tumour nodules upon systemic delivery of EnAd, encoding the oxygen-independent fluorescent reporter UnaG to a tumour xenograft grown under an abdominal window chamber. We conclude that the attenuation of the HIF pathway upon adenoviral infection may contribute to anti-vascular and immunostimulatory effects in the periphery of established infection foci in vivo.
Cell Intrinsic and Systemic Metabolism in Tumor Immunity and Immunotherapy
Authors: Coleman Michael F. , Cozzo Alyssa J. , Pfeil Alexander J. , Etigunta Suhas K. , Hursting Stephen D.
Published: April 2020

Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy has shown extraordinary promise at treating cancers otherwise resistant to treatment. However, for ICI therapy to be effective, it must overcome the metabolic limitations of the tumor microenvironment. Tumor metabolism has long been understood to be highly dysregulated, with potent immunosuppressive effects. Moreover, T cell activation and longevity within the tumor microenvironment are intimately tied to T cell metabolism and are required for the long-term efficacy of ICI therapy. We discuss in this review the intersection of metabolic competition in the tumor microenvironment, T cell activation and metabolism, the roles of tumor cell metabolism in immune evasion, and the impact of host metabolism in determining immune surveillance and ICI therapy outcomes. We also discussed the effects of obesity and calorie restriction—two important systemic metabolic perturbations that impact intrinsic metabolic pathways in T cells as well as cancer cells.
CD44s Induces miR-629-3p Expression in Association with Cisplatin Resistance in Head and Neck Cancer Cells
Authors: Chikuda Junichiro , Otsuka Kurataka , Shimomura Iwao , Ito Kagenori , Miyazaki Hiroaki , Takahashi Ryou-u , Nagasaki Masahiro , Mukudai Yoshiki , Ochiya Takahiro , Shimane Toshikazu , Shirota Tatsuo , Yamamoto Yusuke
Published: April 2020

Cisplatin (cis-diamminedichloroplatinum II [CDDP] ) is a well-known chemotherapeutic drug that has been used for the treatment of various types of human cancers, including head and neck cancer. Cisplatin exerts anticancer effects by causing DNA damage, replication defects, transcriptional inhibition, cell cycle arrest, and the induction of apoptosis. However, drug resistance is one of the most serious problems with cancer chemotherapy, and it causes expected therapeutic effects to not always be achieved. Here, we analyzed global microRNA (miRNA) expression in CD44 standard form (CD44s)-expressing SAS cells, and we identified miR-629-3p as being responsible for acquiring anticancer drug resistance in head and neck cancer. The introduction of miR-629-3p expression inhibited apoptotic cell death under cisplatin treatment conditions, and it promoted cell migration. Among the computationally predicted target genes of miR-629-3p, we found that a number of gene expressions were suppressed by the transfection with miR-629-3p. Using a xenografting model, we showed that miR-629-3p conferred cisplatin resistance to SAS cells. Clinically, increased miR-629-3p expression tended to be associated with decreased survival in head and neck cancer patients. In conclusion, our data suggest that the increased expression of miR-629-3p provides a mechanism of cisplatin resistance in head and neck cancer and may serve as a therapeutic target to reverse chemotherapy resistance.
Tunneling Nanotubes and Tumor Microtubes in Cancer
Authors: Roehlecke Cora , Schmidt Mirko H. H.
Published: April 2020

Intercellular communication among cancer cells and their microenvironment is crucial to disease progression. The mechanisms by which communication occurs between distant cells in a tumor matrix remain poorly understood. In the last two decades, experimental evidence from different groups proved the existence of thin membranous tubes that interconnect cells, named tunneling nanotubes, tumor microtubes, cytonemes or membrane bridges. These highly dynamic membrane protrusions are conduits for direct cell-to-cell communication, particularly for intercellular signaling and transport of cellular cargo over long distances. Tunneling nanotubes and tumor microtubes may play an important role in the pathogenesis of cancer. They may contribute to the resistance of tumor cells against treatments such as surgery, radio- and chemotherapy. In this review, we present the current knowledge about the structure and function of tunneling nanotubes and tumor microtubes in cancer and discuss the therapeutic potential of membrane tubes in cancer treatment.
Expression of CD44v6-Containing Isoforms Influences Cisplatin Response in Gastric Cancer Cells
Authors: Pereira Carla , Ferreira Daniel , Mendes Nuno , Granja Pedro L. , Almeida Gabriela M. , Oliveira Carla
Published: April 2020

CD44v6-containing isoforms are frequently de novo expressed in gastric cancer (GC). Whether CD44v6 has a central role in GC transformation and/or progression, whether it conditions response to therapy or whether it is only a bystander marker is still not known. Therefore, we aimed to clarify the role of CD44v6 in GC. We generated GC isogenic cell lines stably expressing CD44s or CD44v6 and tested them for different cancer hallmarks and response to cisplatin, and we further confirmed our findings in cells that endogenously express CD44v6. No correlation between overexpression of CD44v6 and the tested cancer hallmarks was observed, suggesting CD44v6 is not a driver of GC progression. Upon cisplatin treatment, CD44v6+ cells survive better and have lower apoptosis levels than CD44v6− cells, possibly due to concomitant activation of STAT3 and P38. In co-culture experiments, we discovered that CD44v6+ cells are involved in GC cell overgrowth after cisplatin treatment. In conclusion, we show that CD44v6 expression increases cell survival in response to cisplatin treatment in GC cells and that these cells override CD44v6-negative cells after cisplatin-treatment. This suggests that tumor expression of CD44v6-containing variants may condition the outcome of GC patients treated with chemotherapy.
Comparative Analysis of Urine Fractions for Optimal Bladder Cancer Detection Using DNA Methylation Markers
Authors: Hentschel Anouk E. , Nieuwenhuijzen Jakko A. , Bosschieter Judith , van Splunter Annina P. , Lissenberg-Witte Birgit I. , van der Voorn J. Patrick , Segerink Loes I. , van Moorselaar R. Jeroen A. , Steenbergen Renske D.M.
Published: April 2020

DNA methylation analysis of full void urine and urine pellet seems promising for bladder cancer (BC) detection and surveillance. Urinary cell-free DNA from urine supernatant is now gaining interest for other molecular tests in BC. This study aims to evaluate which urine fraction is preferred for BC diagnosis using methylation markers: full void urine, urine pellet or supernatant. Methylation levels of nine markers were determined in the three urine fractions and correlated with their respective tumor tissues in BC patients and compared to controls. For all markers and marker panel GHSR/MAL, diagnostic performance was determined by calculating the area under the curve (AUC) of the respective receiver operating characteristic curves. For most of the markers, there was a significant correlation between the methylation levels in each of the urine fractions and the matched tumor tissues. Urine pellet was the most representative fraction. Generally, AUCs for BC diagnosis were comparable among the fractions. The highest AUC was obtained for GHSR/MAL in urine pellet: AUC 0.87 (95% confidence interval: 0.73–1.00), corresponding to a sensitivity of 78.6% and a specificity of 91.7%. Our results demonstrate that cellular and cell-free DNA in urine can be used for BC diagnosis by urinary methylation analysis. Based on our comparative analysis and for practical reasons, we recommend the use of urine pellet.
Metabolic Heterogeneity of Cancer Cells: An Interplay between HIF-1, GLUTs, and AMPK
Authors: Moldogazieva Nurbubu T. , Mokhosoev Innokenty M. , Terentiev Alexander A.
Published: April 2020

It has been long recognized that cancer cells reprogram their metabolism under hypoxia conditions due to a shift from oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) to glycolysis in order to meet elevated requirements in energy and nutrients for proliferation, migration, and survival. However, data accumulated over recent years has increasingly provided evidence that cancer cells can revert from glycolysis to OXPHOS and maintain both reprogrammed and oxidative metabolism, even in the same tumor. This phenomenon, denoted as cancer cell metabolic plasticity or hybrid metabolism, depends on a tumor micro-environment that is highly heterogeneous and influenced by an intensity of vasculature and blood flow, oxygen concentration, and nutrient and energy supply, and requires regulatory interplay between multiple oncogenes, transcription factors, growth factors, and reactive oxygen species (ROS), among others. Hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) represent key modulators of a switch between reprogrammed and oxidative metabolism. The present review focuses on cross-talks between HIF-1, glucose transporters (GLUTs), and AMPK with other regulatory proteins including oncogenes such as c-Myc, p53, and KRAS; growth factor-initiated protein kinase B (PKB)/Akt, phosphatidyl-3-kinase (PI3K), and mTOR signaling pathways; and tumor suppressors such as liver kinase B1 (LKB1) and TSC1 in controlling cancer cell metabolism. The multiple switches between metabolic pathways can underlie chemo-resistance to conventional anti-cancer therapy and should be taken into account in choosing molecular targets to discover novel anti-cancer drugs.
Integrative Radiogenomics Approach for Risk Assessment of Post-Operative Metastasis in Pathological T1 Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Pilot Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Lee Hye Won , Cho Hwan-ho , Joung Je-Gun , Jeon Hwang Gyun , Jeong Byong Chang , Jeon Seong Soo , Lee Hyun Moo , Nam Do-Hyun , Park Woong-Yang , Kim Chan Kyo , Seo Seong Il , Park Hyunjin
Published: April 2020

Despite the increasing incidence of pathological stage T1 renal cell carcinoma (pT1 RCC), postoperative distant metastases develop in many surgically treated patients, causing death in certain cases. Therefore, this study aimed to create a radiomics model using imaging features from multiphase computed tomography (CT) to more accurately predict the postoperative metastasis of pT1 RCC and further investigate the possible link between radiomics parameters and gene expression profiles generated by whole transcriptome sequencing (WTS). Four radiomic features, including the minimum value of a histogram feature from inner regions of interest (ROIs) (INNER_Min_hist), the histogram of the energy feature from outer ROIs (OUTER_Energy_Hist), the maximum probability of gray-level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM) feature from inner ROIs (INNER_MaxProb_GLCM), and the ratio of voxels under 80 Hounsfield units (Hus) in the nephrographic phase of postcontrast CT (Under80HURatio), were detected to predict the postsurgical metastasis of patients with pathological stage T1 RCC, and the clinical outcomes of patients could be successfully stratified based on their radiomic risk scores. Furthermore, we identified heterogenous-trait-associated gene signatures correlated with these four radiomic features, which captured clinically relevant molecular pathways, tumor immune microenvironment, and potential treatment strategies. Our results of accurate surrogates using radiogenomics could lead to additional benefit from adjuvant therapy or postsurgical metastases in pT1 RCC.
Catalytic Behavior of Alkali Treated H-MOR in Selective Synthesis of Ethylenediamine via Condensation Amination of Monoethanolamine
Authors: Zhao Feng-Wei , Zhang Qian , Hui Feng , Yuan Jun , Mei Su-Ning , Yu Qin-Wei , Yang Jian-Ming , Mao Wei , Liu Zhong-Wen , Liu Zhao-Tie , Lu Jian
Published: April 2020

Catalytic behavior of alkali treated mordenite (H-MOR) in selective synthesis of ethylenediamine (EDA) via condensation amination of monoethanolamine (MEA) was investigated. Changes in the structural and acidic properties of alkali treated H-MOR were systematically investigated by N2 adsorption/desorption isotherms, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), temperature programmed ammonia desorption (NH3-TPD), pyridine adsorption was followed by infrared spectroscopy (Py-IR), and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyses. The results show that alkali treatment produces more opening mesopores on the H-MOR crystal surfaces and leads to an increase in the number of B acid sites and the strength of the acid sites. The mesopores effectively enhance the rate of diffusion in the bulk catalyst. Moreover, the B acid sites are active sites in selective synthesis of EDA. Due to improvements in the diffusion conditions and reactivities, alkali treated H-MOR shows an excellent catalytic performance under mild reaction conditions. The conversion of MEA was 52.8% and selectivity to EDA increased to 93.6%, which is the highest selectivity achieved so far. Furthermore, possible mechanism for the formation of EDA is discussed.
Tetralin and Decalin H-Donor Effect on Catalytic Upgrading of Heavy Oil Inductively Heated with Steel Balls
Authors: Hart Abarasi , Adam Mohamed , Robinson John P. , Rigby Sean P. , Wood Joseph
Published: April 2020

The Toe-to-Heel Air Injection (THAI) combined with catalytic upgrading process in situ (CAPRI) has demonstrated it can simultaneously extract and upgrade heavy oil in situ. This paper reports the investigation of augmenting temperature deficit and suppressing coke formation in the CAPRI section through the incorporation of induction heating and H-donor solvents. An induction-heated catalytic reactor was designed and developed, heated with steel balls in a mixed bed of NiMo/Al2O3 catalyst (66% v/v) to 425 °C temperature, 15 bar pressure and 0.75 h−1 LHSV (Liquid Hourly Space Velocity). The catalyst surface area, pore volume and pore size distribution were determined by using nitrogen adsorption–desorption, while the location of coke deposits within the microstructure of the pelleted spent catalyst was analyzed with X-ray nano-Computed Tomography (X-ray nano-CT). Findings showed that induction heating improved the catalyst performance, resulting in a 2.2° American Petroleum Institute (API) gravity increase of the upgraded oil over that achieved with the conventional heating method. The increment in API gravity and viscosity reduction in the upgraded oils with nitrogen gas only, N2 and H-donor solvents, and hydrogen gas environments can be summarized as follows: decalin > H2 gas >= tetralin > N2 gas. Meanwhile, the improvement in naphtha fraction, middle distillate fractions and suppression of coke formation are as follows: decalin > H2 gas > tetralin > N2 gas. The X-ray nano-CT of the spent catalyst revealed that the pellet suffers deactivation due to coke deposit at the external surface and pore-mouth blockage, signifying underutilization of the catalyst interior surface area.
TRPCs: Influential Mediators in Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Choi Jun Hee , Jeong Seung Yeon , Oh Mi Ri , Allen Paul D. , Lee Eun Hui
Published: April 2020

Ca2+ itself or Ca2+-dependent signaling pathways play fundamental roles in various cellular processes from cell growth to death. The most representative example can be found in skeletal muscle cells where a well-timed and adequate supply of Ca2+ is required for coordinated Ca2+-dependent skeletal muscle functions, such as the interactions of contractile proteins during contraction. Intracellular Ca2+ movements between the cytosol and sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) are strictly regulated to maintain the appropriate Ca2+ supply in skeletal muscle cells. Added to intracellular Ca2+ movements, the contribution of extracellular Ca2+ entry to skeletal muscle functions and its significance have been continuously studied since the early 1990s. Here, studies on the roles of channel proteins that mediate extracellular Ca2+ entry into skeletal muscle cells using skeletal myoblasts, myotubes, fibers, tissue, or skeletal muscle-originated cell lines are reviewed with special attention to the proposed functions of transient receptor potential canonical proteins (TRPCs) as store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) channels under normal conditions and the potential abnormal properties of TRPCs in muscle diseases such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD).
Highly Sensitive and Multiplexed In-Situ Protein Profiling with Cleavable Fluorescent Streptavidin
Authors: Liao Renjie , Pham Thai , Mastroeni Diego , Coleman Paul D. , Labaer Joshua , Guo Jia
Published: April 2020

The ability to perform highly sensitive and multiplexed in-situ protein analysis is crucial to advance our understanding of normal physiology and disease pathogenesis. To achieve this goal, we here develop an approach using cleavable biotin-conjugated antibodies and cleavable fluorescent streptavidin (CFS). In this approach, protein targets are first recognized by the cleavable biotin-labeled antibodies. Subsequently, CFS is applied to stain the protein targets. Though layer-by-layer signal amplification using cleavable biotin-conjugated orthogonal antibodies and CSF, the protein detection sensitivity can be enhanced at least 10-fold, compared with the current in-situ proteomics methods. After imaging, the fluorophore and the biotin unbound to streptavidin are removed by chemical cleavage. The leftover streptavidin is blocked by biotin. Upon reiterative analysis cycles, a large number of different proteins with a wide range of expression levels can be profiled in individual cells at the optical resolution. Applying this approach, we have demonstrated that multiple proteins are unambiguously detected in the same set of cells, regardless of the protein analysis order. We have also shown that this method can be successfully applied to quantify proteins in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues.
Gut Microbiota, Its Role in Induction of Alzheimer’s Disease Pathology, and Possible Therapeutic Interventions: Special Focus on Anthocyanins
Authors: Khan Muhammad Sohail , Ikram Muhammad , Park Jun Sung , Park Tae Ju , Kim Myeong Ok
Published: April 2020

The human gut is a safe environment for several microbes that are symbiotic and important for the wellbeing of human health. However, studies on gut microbiota in different animals have suggested that changes in the composition and structure of these microbes may promote gut inflammation by releasing inflammatory cytokines and lipopolysaccharides, gut-wall leakage, and may affect systemic inflammatory and immune mechanisms that are important for the normal functioning of the body. There are many factors that aid in the gut’s dysbiosis and neuroinflammation, including high stress levels, lack of sleep, fatty and processed foods, and the prolonged use of antibiotics. These neurotoxic mechanisms of dysbiosis may increase susceptibility to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and other neurodegenerative conditions. Therefore, studies have recently been conducted to tackle AD-like conditions by specifically targeting gut microbes that need further elucidation. It was suggested that gut dyshomeostasis may be regulated by using available options, including the use of flavonoids such as anthocyanins, and restriction of the use of high-fatty-acid-containing food. In this review, we summarize the gut microbiota, factors promoting it, and possible therapeutic interventions especially focused on the therapeutic potential of natural dietary polyflavonoid anthocyanins. Our study strongly suggests that gut dysbiosis and systemic inflammation are critically involved in the development of neurodegenerative disorders, and the natural intake of these flavonoids may provide new therapeutic opportunities for preclinical or clinical studies.
The Emerging Roles of Exosomes as EMT Regulators in Cancer
Authors: Kim Hyunwoo , Lee Sungmin , Shin Eunguk , Seong Ki Moon , Jin Young Woo , Youn HyeSook , Youn BuHyun
Published: April 2020

Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) causes epithelial cells to lose their polarity and adhesion property, and endows them with migratory and invasive properties to enable them to become mesenchymal stem cells. EMT occurs throughout embryonic development, during wound healing, and in various pathological processes, including tumor progression. Considerable research in the last few decades has revealed that EMT is invariably related to tumor aggressiveness and metastasis. Apart from the interactions between numerous intracellular signaling pathways known to regulate EMT, extracellular modulators in the tumor microenvironment also influence tumor cells to undergo EMT, with extracellular vesicles (EVs) receiving increasing attention as EMT inducers. EVs comprise exosomes and microvesicles that carry proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and other small molecules to stimulate EMT in cells. Among EVs, exosomes have been investigated in many studies, and their role has been found to be significant with respect to regulating intercellular communications. In this review, we summarize recent studies on exosomes and their cargoes that induce cancer-associated EMT. Furthermore, we describe the possible applications of exosomes as promising therapeutic strategies.
Extracellular Vesicles in Smoking-Mediated HIV Pathogenesis and their Potential Role in Biomarker Discovery and Therapeutic Interventions
Authors: Haque Sanjana , Kodidela Sunitha , Gerth Kelli , Hatami Elham , Verma Neha , Kumar Santosh
Published: April 2020

In the last two decades, the mortality rate in people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) has decreased significantly, resulting in an almost normal longevity in this population. However, a large portion of this population still endures a poor quality of life, mostly due to an increased inclination for substance abuse, including tobacco smoking. The prevalence of smoking in PLWHA is consistently higher than in HIV negative persons. A predisposition to cigarette smoking in the setting of HIV potentially leads to exacerbated HIV replication and a higher risk for developing neurocognitive and other CNS disorders. Oxidative stress and inflammation have been identified as mechanistic pathways in smoking-mediated HIV pathogenesis and HIV-associated neuropathogenesis. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), packaged with oxidative stress and inflammatory agents, show promise in understanding the underlying mechanisms of smoking-induced HIV pathogenesis via cell-cell interactions. This review focuses on recent advances in the field of EVs with an emphasis on smoking-mediated HIV pathogenesis and HIV-associated neuropathogenesis. This review also provides an overview of the potential applications of EVs in developing novel therapeutic carriers for the treatment of HIV-infected individuals who smoke, and in the discovery of novel biomarkers that are associated with HIV-smoking interactions in the CNS.
Revisiting the Role of Neurotrophic Factors in Inflammation
Authors: Morel Lucas , Domingues Olivia , Zimmer Jacques , Michel Tatiana
Published: April 2020

The neurotrophic factors are well known for their implication in the growth and the survival of the central, sensory, enteric and parasympathetic nervous systems. Due to these properties, neurturin (NRTN) and Glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), which belong to the GDNF family ligands (GFLs), have been assessed in clinical trials as a treatment for neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s disease. In addition, studies in favor of a functional role for GFLs outside the nervous system are accumulating. Thus, GFLs are present in several peripheral tissues, including digestive, respiratory, hematopoietic and urogenital systems, heart, blood, muscles and skin. More precisely, recent data have highlighted that different types of immune and epithelial cells (macrophages, T cells, such as, for example, mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells, innate lymphoid cells (ILC) 3, dendritic cells, mast cells, monocytes, bronchial epithelial cells, keratinocytes) have the capacity to release GFLs and express their receptors, leading to the participation in the repair of epithelial barrier damage after inflammation. Some of these mechanisms pass on to ILCs to produce cytokines (such as IL-22) that can impact gut microbiota. In addition, there are indications that NRTN could be used in the treatment of inflammatory airway diseases and it prevents the development of hyperglycemia in the diabetic rat model. On the other hand, it is suspected that the dysregulation of GFLs produces oncogenic effects. This review proposes the discussion of the biological understanding and the potential new opportunities of the GFLs, in the perspective of developing new treatments within a broad range of human diseases.
Glycation Leads to Increased Polysialylation and Promotes the Metastatic Potential of Neuroblastoma Cells
Authors: Scheer Maximilian , Bork Kaya , Simon Frieder , Nagasundaram Manimozhi , Horstkorte Rüdiger , Gnanapragassam Vinayaga Srinivasan
Published: April 2020

Neuroblastoma is the second most frequent extracranial tumor, affecting young children worldwide. One hallmark of tumors such as neuroblastomas, is the expression of polysialic acid, which interferes with adhesion and may promote invasion and metastasis. Since tumor cells use glycolysis for energy production, they thereby produce as side product methylglyoxal (MGO), which reacts with proteins to advanced glycation end products in a mechanism called glycation. Here we analyzed the expression of (poly) sialic acid and adhesion of Kelly neuroblastoma cells after glycation with MGO. We found that both sialylation and polysialylation is increased after glycation. Furthermore, glycated Kelly neuroblastoma cells had a much higher potential for migration and invasion compared with non-glycated cells.
Fabrication of Superhydrophobic and UV-Resistant Silk Fabrics with Laundering Durability and Chemical Stabilities
Authors: Liang Zihui , Zhou Zezhu , Dong Binghai , Wang Shimin
Published: April 2020

To obtain a superhydrophobic surface, SiO2 nanoparticles are deposited on the surface of silk fabric (SF) by Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition (PECVD) to form a hierarchical roughness structure. In addition, a durable superhydrophobic SiO2@silk fabric was further prepared by hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS) modification. Compared with bare silk, the surfaces of the SiO2@silk fabric exhibit higher surface roughness and excellent superhydrophobic activity, with a contact angle (CA) of ~152°. The excellent UV resistance of SiO2@silk fabric was confirmed with high UV protection factor (UPF) values and a low UV transmittance. Moreover, both the laundering durability and chemical stability of the SiO2@silk fabric were improved. Overall, this method is recognized as a promising approach to produce high-end fabric development. It can also guide the design of multifunctional fiber materials in the future.
A Novel DR/NIR T-Shaped AIEgen: Synthesis and X-Ray Crystal Structure Study
Authors: Diana Rosita , Caruso Ugo , Di Costanzo Luigi , Bakayoko Gelsomina , Panunzi Barbara
Published: April 2020

We developed a new benzodifuran derivative as the condensation product between 2,6-diamino-4-(4-nitrophenyl)benzo[1,2-b:4,5-b’]difuran-3,7-dicarboxylate and 3-hydroxy-2-naphthaldehyde. The intramolecular hydrogen-bond interactions in the terminal half-salen moieties produce a sterically encumbered highly conjugated main plane and a D-A-D (donor-acceptor-donor) T-shaped structure. The novel AIEgen (aggregation-induced enhanced emission generator) fulfils the requirement of RIR (restriction of intramolecular rotation) molecules. DR/NIR (deep red/near infrared) emission was recorded in solution and in the solid state, with a noteworthy photoluminescence quantum yield recorded on the neat crystals which undergo some mechanochromism. The crystal structure study of the probe from data collected at a synchrotron X-ray source shows a main aromatic plane π-stacked in a columnar arrangement.
Use of Entropy in Developing SDG-based Indices for Assessing Regional Sustainable Development: A Provincial Case Study of China
Authors: Wang Xiangyu , Gao Peichao , Song Changqing , Cheng Changxiu
Published: April 2020

Sustainable development appears to be the theme of our time. To assess the progress of sustainable development, a simple but comprehensive index is of great use. To this end, a multivariate index of sustainable development was developed in this study based on indicators of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). To demonstrate the usability of this developed index, we applied it to Fujian Province, China. According to the China SDGs indicators and the Fujian situation, we divided the SDGs into three dimensions and selected indicators based on these dimensions. We calculated the weights and two indices with the entropy weight coefficient method based on collecting and processing of data from 2007 to 2017. We assessed and analyzed the sustainable development of Fujian with two indices and we drew three main conclusions. From 2007 to 2017, the development index of Fujian showed an increasing trend and the coordination index of Fujian showed a fluctuating trend. It is difficult to smoothly improve the coordination index of Fujian because the development speeds of Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) were low. The coordination index of Fujian changed from strong coordination to medium coordination from 2011 to 2012 because the development speed of the environmental dimension suddenly improved. It changed from strong coordination to medium coordination from 2015 to 2016 because the values of the development index of the social dimension were decreasing. To the best of our knowledge, these are the first SDGs-based multivariate indices of sustainable development for a region of China. These indices are applicable to different regions.
How Incomputable Is Kolmogorov Complexity?
Authors: Vitányi Paul M.B.
Published: April 2020

Kolmogorov complexity is the length of the ultimately compressed version of a file (i.e., anything which can be put in a computer). Formally, it is the length of a shortest program from which the file can be reconstructed. We discuss the incomputability of Kolmogorov complexity, which formal loopholes this leaves us with, recent approaches to compute or approximate Kolmogorov complexity, which approaches are problematic, and which approaches are viable.
Methodology for Analysis of Electric Distribution Network Criticality Due to Direct Lightning Discharges
Authors: Barradas Raphael Pablo de Souza , Rocha Gabriel Vianna Soares , Muniz João Rodrigo Silva , Bezerra Ubiratan Holanda , Nunes Marcus Vinícius Alves , Silva Jucileno Silva e
Published: April 2020

Direct lightning discharges in overhead distribution networks invariably cause serious insulation damage, frequently leading to the electric system’s partial or total shutdown. Installing lightning arresters can be very effective, and it is commonly used to minimize this problem; however, considering that typically, electric distribution grids exhibit a very large number of electrical nodes, the massive use of lightning arresters may not be economically viable. In this way, this article proposes a methodology for allocating lightning arresters that can significantly reduce the number of lightning arresters installed, but at the same time maintaining an adequate protection level for the distribution grid. The proposed methodology, named Direct Discharge Crossing (DDC), analyzes the network criticality based on two main factors, which are the overvoltage magnitudes and the number of flashovers provoked by lightning discharges, and defines a feeder lightning performance function that is used to indicate the recommended location for lightning arresters’ installation. The simulation studies are accomplished using the IEEE 34 bus distribution grid and ATP software to demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed solution, which is confirmed by the results presented.
Folded Spiral Resonator with Double-Layered Structure for Near-Field Wireless Power Transfer
Authors: Arai Takaya , Hirayama Hiroshi
Published: April 2020

In this paper, a folded spiral resonator with a double-layered structure for near-field wireless power transfer is proposed. In near-field wireless power transfer, conjugate impedance matching is important to achieve high transfer efficiency. To achieve maximum available efficiency, it is common to connect a matching circuit to the antenna. However, the loss increases if a matching circuit is used. A coupling inductor with a resonant capacitor has the capability to adjust an imaginary part of the input impedance, whereas the folded spiral resonator has the capability to adjust both the imaginary and real parts of the input impedance. This resonator can achieve the maximum available efficiency without a matching circuit. This paper shows that the folded spiral resonator with a double-layered structure realizes high transfer efficiency compared to conventional models.
Turbulence Modeling Insights into Supercritical Nitrogen Mixing Layers
Authors: Magalhães Leandro , Carvalho Francisco , Silva André , Barata Jorge
Published: April 2020

In Liquid Rocket Engines, higher combustion efficiencies come at the cost of the propellants exceeding their critical point conditions and entering the supercritical domain. The term fluid is used because, under these conditions, there is no longer a clear distinction between a liquid and a gas phase. The non-conventional behavior of thermophysical properties makes the modeling of supercritical fluid flows a most challenging task. In the present work, a Reynolds Averaged Navier Stokes (RANS) computational method following an incompressible but variable density approach is devised on which the performance of several turbulence models is compared in conjunction with a high accuracy multi-parameter equation of state. In addition, a suitable methodology to describe transport properties accounting for dense fluid corrections is applied. The results are validated against experimental data, making it clear that there is no trend between turbulence model complexity and the quality of the produced results. For several instances, one- and two-equation turbulence models produce similar results. Finally, considerations about the applicability of the tested turbulence models in supercritical simulations are given based on the results and the structural nature of each model.
New HVAC Sustainability Index—TWI (Total Water Impact)
Authors: Santos Alexandre F. , Gaspar Pedro D. , de Souza Heraldo J. L.
Published: April 2020

Sales of air conditioning are growing rapidly in buildings, more than tripling between 1990 and 2016. This energy use for air conditioning comes from a combination of rising temperatures, rising population and economic growth. Energy demand for climate control will triple by 2050, consuming more energy than that currently consumed altogether by the United States, the European Union and Japan. This increase in energy will directly impact water consumption, either to directly cool a condenser of an equipment or to serve indirectly as a basis for energy sources such as hydroelectric power that feed these heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Knowing the unique and growing importance of water, a new index, Total Water Impact (TWI) is presented, which allows a holistic comparison of the impact of water use on water, air and evaporative condensation climate systems. 200 and 500 TON (tons of refrigeration) air-cooled and water-cooled systems are theoretically compared to evaluate the general water consumption level. The TWI index is higher in the smallest water condensing system. That is, holistically, water consumption is higher in the water condensing system than in the air condensing system. Thus, this index provides a new insight about energy consumption and ultimately, about sustainability.
High Frequency Resonance Damping Method for Voltage Source Converter Based on Voltage Feedforward Control
Authors: Pang Bo , Li Feng , Dai Hui , Nian Heng
Published: April 2020

High frequency resonance (HFR) is a subsistent problem which affects the operation of the voltage source converter (VSC) connected to the parallel compensated grid. The appearance of HFR introduces a significant high frequency component in the grid voltage, thereby the operation of VSC system will be seriously affected. For enhancing the operation capability of VSC system, an HFR damping method based on the voltage feedforward control is proposed in this paper, which can reshape the VSC system impedance effectively in a wideband range. Besides, different with the existing HFR damping methods, the proposed method introduces a correction factor instead of the series virtual impedance with fixed value, so that the effect of impedance reshaping is irrelevant to the parameters of controlled object. In addition, this paper analyzes the fundamental control performance of VSC system after equipping the proposed method, for verifying that the proposed method will not worsen the fundamental control. Experimental results are given to validate the effectiveness of the proposed damping method.
Effect of Suction and Discharge Conditions on the Unsteady Flow Phenomena of Axial-Flow Reactor Coolant Pump
Authors: Chen Xin , Li Shiyang , Wu Dazhuan , Yang Shuai , Wu Peng
Published: April 2020

In order to study the effects of the suction and discharge conditions on the hydraulic performance and unsteady flow phenomena of an axial-flow reactor coolant pump (RCP), three RCP models with different suction and discharge configurations are analyzed by computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method. The CFD results are validated by experimental data. The hydraulic performance of the three RCP models shows little difference. However, the unsteady flow phenomena of RCP are significantly affected by the variation of suction and discharge conditions. Compared with that of Model E-S (baseline, elbow-single nozzle), the pressure pulsation in rotating frame of Model S-S (straight pipe-single nozzle) and Model E-D (elbow-double nozzles) is weakened in different degrees and forms, due to the more uniform flow fields upstream and downstream of the impeller, respectively. It indicates that the generalized rotor-stator interaction (RSI) actually exists between the rotating impeller and all stationary components causing the circumferentially non-uniform flow. Furthermore, improving the circumferential uniformity of the flow upstream and downstream of impeller (suction and discharge flow) also contributes to reducing the radial dynamic fluid force acting on the impeller. Compared with those of Model E-S, the dynamic FX and FY of Model S-S are severely weakened, and those of Model E-D also gain a minor amplitude decrease at fBPF. In contrast, the general pressure pulsation in fixed frame is mainly related to the rotating impeller and barely affected by the suction and discharge conditions.
Do People Drive Light Cars Carefully? A Comparative Study of Risky Driving Behaviors between Light Cars and Others
Authors: Zhao Yanning , Yamamoto Toshiyuki
Published: April 2020

The first aim of this study was to examine whether people drive light cars carefully in comparison with standard-sized cars. The second aim was to evaluate the factors that influence these risky driving indicators. Data were collected from 49 drivers in Aichi Prefecture, Japan, from November 2014 to January 2015. Risky driving behaviors included; (1) speeding, (2) high speed on a non-expressway, (3) high speed on an expressway, (4) high right/left turn rate, (5) long travel, (6) driving at night, (7) driving on an expressway, and (8) driving frequency. At first, the frequency or number of these indicators was compared between the light car group and the standard size car group by a t-test. Second, regression models were established to evaluate the influence of age, gender, living area, and car classification on each risky indicator. The t-test results showed that there was no significant difference in risky driving behaviors between the light car group and the others. The regression models confirmed that car classification did not significantly influence risky driving behaviors. Although age might affect car size selection, an interaction effect between these two factors was not observed. The results of the comparison and regression analysis revealed that drivers of light cars did not drive more carefully than drivers of standard size cars. The risky driving behaviors may partially contribute to the high injury and fatality rates of light cars. Therefore, we suggest that automakers and policymakers should provide more safety education and driving assistance for drivers of light cars.
Low Frequency Magnetic Fields Emitted by High-Power Charging Systems
Authors: Trentadue Germana , Pinto Rosanna , Zanni Marco , Scholz Harald , Pliakostathis Konstantinos , Martini Giorgio
Published: April 2020

The new generation of fast charging systems faces a formidable technological challenge, aiming to drastically reduce the time needed to recharge an electric vehicle as a way to tackle the range anxiety issue. To achieve this, high power (up to 350 kW) is transferred from the grid to the vehicle, leading to potentially high values of low frequency magnetic fields. This study presents the results of measurements of magnetic flux density (B-field) emitted by two different high power charging systems. The electric vehicle used for the recharge was able to digest up to 83 kW of delivered power. The test procedure was designed to identify the locations where the maximum B-field levels were recorded and to measure the exposure indices according to reference levels for general public exposure defined in the Council Recommendation 1999/519/EC. Measurements in close proximity to the power cabinets during the recharge revealed that, at some points, exposure indices were higher than 100%, leading to the identification of a distance from the system components at which the value was lower than the reference level. In the worst case, this distance was 31 cm.
Mainstreaming Energy Communities in the Transition to a Low-Carbon Future: A Methodological Approach
Authors: Torabi Moghadam Sara , Di Nicoli Maria Valentina , Manzo Santiago , Lombardi Patrizia
Published: April 2020

Innovations in technical, financial, and social areas are crucial prerequisites for an effective and sustainable energy transition. In this context, the construction of a new energy structure and the motivation of the consumer towards a change in their consumption behaviours to balance demand with a volatile energy supply are important issues. At the same time, Consumer Stock Ownership Plans (CSOPs) in renewable energies sources (RESs) have proven to be an essential cornerstone in the overall success of energy transition. Indeed, when consumers acquire ownership in RES, they become prosumers, participating in the phase of production and distribution of energy. Prosumers provide benefits by (1) generating a part of the energy they consume, (2) reducing their overall expenditure for energy, and (3) receiving a second source of income from the sale of excess production. Supporting Consumer Co-Ownership in Renewable Energies (SCORE) is an ongoing Horizon 2020 project with the aim of overcoming the usage of energy from fossil sources in favour of RES, promoting the creation of energy communities (EC) and facilitating co-ownership of renewable energies (RE) for consumers. SCORE hereby particularly emphasises the inclusion of women, low-income households, and vulnerable groups affected by fuel poverty that are as a rule excluded from RE investments. In this framework, the main goal of the present study is to illustrate the general procedure and process of EC creation. In particular, this paper focuses on the description of the methodological approach in implementing the CSOP model which consists of three main phases: the identification and description of selected buildings (preparation phase), the preliminary and feasibility analysis phase, and finally the phase of target group involvement. SCORE first started in three pilot regions in Italy, Czech Republic, and Poland, and later, with the aim of extending the methodology, in various other cities across Europe. In this study, Italian pilot study sites were chosen as a case study to develop and test the methodology.