bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PROTOTYPE LAMPU PENERANGAN PERSAWAHAN OTOMATIS MENGGUNAKAN SOLAR CELL DAN SENSOR CAHAYA
Authors: Rahayu Nadiyah , Permadi Dimas Fanny Hebrasianto
Published: November 2020

Lampu merupakan salah satu komponen terpenting dalam penerangan di ruangan ataupun diluar ruangan. Lampu memberikan manfaat yang sangat besar khususnya pada malam hari. Penulis pada penelitian ini telah mengembangkan lampu penerangan otomatis yang diterapkan pada area persawahan, biasanya lampu otomatis ini hanya diterapkan pada sepanjang jalan raya. Dengan adanya lampu penerangan otomatis diarea persawahan ini dapat membantu petani saat musim panen tebu yang biasanya dilakukan sampai malam hari. Lampu penerangan persawahan ini tidak memakai sumber listrik PLN namun menggunakan energi matahari yang kemudian diubah menjadi energi listrik dengan bantuan solar cell. Suhu ideal pertumbuhan dan pembentukan sukrosa tebu berkisar  antara 24°C-34°C dengan perbedaan suhu antara siang dan malam tidak lebih dari 10°C.  Proses penyimpanan sukrosa ini paling efektif dan optimal pada suhu 15°C. Oleh sebab itu, tebu yang dipanen malam hari berpotensi lebih manis daripada tebu yangg dipanen pada siang hari. Hasil dari pengujian alat yang telah dilakukan oleh peneliti yaitu lampu dapat menyala dan mati secara otomatis dengan bantuan sensor LDR. Lampu led akan mati saat nilai sensor LDR lebih kecil dari 899, dan lampu led akan menyala jika nilai sensor LDR lebih besar dari 900. Solar cell dapat mengisi baterai Li-Ion (Lithium-Ion) berjumlah 1-4 buah. Waktu yang paling optimal untuk proses charging solar cell yaitu antara jam 09.00 – jam 15.00.
Образы России и Беларуси в представлениях молодежи двух стран в ХХІ веке: коллективная монография
Authors:   Institute of Ethnology and Anthropology RAS, Снежкова Ирина , Шалыгина Наталья Валентиновна , Сарна Александр Янисович , Саликов Андрей Эдуардович , Посталовский Александр Владимирович , Малькова Вера Константиновна , Кульбачевская Ольга Вячеславовна , Калачёва Ирина Ивановна , Ефимова Надежда Викторовна , Гузенкова Тамара Семеновна , Дмитрий Вячеславович Громов , Белов Андрей Александрович
Published: November 2020

В коллективной монографии представлены результаты совместной работы российских и белорусских ученых по проекту «Имидж и образ России и Беларуси в ХХІ в. в восприятии молодежи двух стран». Основная часть работы выполнена на основе материалов социологических исследований, проводившихся по единой методике в университетах Москвы и Минска. Авторы монографии исследовали представления молодежи о межгосударственных отношениях России и Беларуси, политические ориентации молодежи, ее отношение к различным историческим периодам совместной истории. Были проанализированы влияние СМИ на формирование образа страны, процесс разработки региональных и территориальных брендов России и Беларуси, молодежная политика двух стран, а также молодежный активизм и особенности ментальности молодого поколения The collective monograph presents the results of joint work of Russian and Belarusian scientists on the project "Image and image of Russia and Belarus in the XXI century in the perception of the youth of the two countries". The main part of the work is based on the materials of sociological research conducted using the same methodology at the universities of Moscow and Minsk. The authors of the monograph studied the youth's ideas about interstate relations between Russia and Belarus, political orientations of young people, and their attitude to various historical periods of joint history. The influence of the media on the formation of the country's image, the process of developing regional and territorial brands in Russia and Belarus, the youth policy of the two countries, as well as youth activism and the mentality of the younger generation were analyzed. The book is intended for specialists in the field of ethnosociology, youth and image political science, as well as for a wide range of readers
Exosomal miRNA-16-5p Derived From M1 Macrophages Enhances T Cell-Dependent Immune Response by Regulating PD-L1 in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Li Zhengtian , Suo Bing , Long Gang , Gao Yue , Song Jia , Zhang Mengzhe , Feng Baiyu , Shang Ce , Wang Dawei
Published: November 2020

Macrophages have an affinity to developing tumors and have been shown to play a role in tumor combat and immune surveillance. However, the exact mechanism by which macrophages participate in the anti-tumor immune response remains unclear. Hence, the current study aimed to identify the effect of macrophages on gastric cancer (GC) cells via exosomes. Paired cancerous, tumor-adjacent, and non-cancerous stomach tissues were initially from 68 GC patients. T cells were isolated from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) obtained from both the GC patients as well as the healthy donors. Next, the exosomes were isolated from LPS and IFN-γ-induced PBMCs (M1 macrophages) and co-cultured with human GC cells. Another co-culture system comprised of CD3+ T cells and exosomes-treated GC cells was then performed. BALB/c mice and NOD/SCID nude mice were prepared for effects of exosomal miR-16-5p on tumor growth and anti-tumor immune response in GC in vivo. A relationship between M1 macrophages and the poor survival of GC patients was identified, while they secreted exosomes to inhibit GC development and activate a T cell-dependent immune response. Our results revealed that miR-16-5p was transferred intercellularly from M1 macrophages to GC cells via exosomes and targeted PD-L1. M1 macrophage-derived exosomes containing miR-16-5p were found to trigger a T cell immune response which inhibited tumor formation both in vitro and in vivo by decreasing the expression of PD-L1. Taken together, the key findings of the current study suggest that M1 macrophage-derived exosomes carrying miR-16-5p exert an inhibitory effect on GC progression through activation of T cell immune response via PD-L1. Our study highlights the promise of M1 macrophages as a potential cell-based therapy for GC treatment by increasing miR-16-5p in exosomes.
Spontaneous Membrane Nanodomain Formation in the Absence or Presence of the Neurotransmitter Serotonin
Authors: Bochicchio Anna , Brandner Astrid F. , Engberg Oskar , Huster Daniel , Böckmann Rainer A.
Published: November 2020

Detailed knowledge on the formation of biomembrane domains, their structure, composition, and physical characteristics is scarce. Despite its frequently discussed importance in signaling, e.g., in obtaining localized non-homogeneous receptor compositions in the plasma membrane, the nanometer size as well as the dynamic and transient nature of domains impede their experimental characterization. In turn, atomistic molecular dynamics (MD) simulations combine both, high spatial and high temporal resolution. Here, using microsecond atomistic MD simulations, we characterize the spontaneous and unbiased formation of nano-domains in a plasma membrane model containing phosphatidylcholine (POPC), palmitoyl-sphingomyelin (PSM), and cholesterol (Chol) in the presence or absence of the neurotransmitter serotonin at different temperatures. In the ternary mixture, highly ordered and highly disordered domains of similar composition coexist at 303 K. The distinction of domains by lipid acyl chain order gets lost at lower temperatures of 298 and 294 K, suggesting a phase transition at ambient temperature. By comparison of domain ordering and composition, we demonstrate how the domain-specific binding of the neurotransmitter serotonin results in a modified domain lipid composition and a substantial downward shift of the phase transition temperature. Our simulations thus suggest a novel mode of action of neurotransmitters possibly of importance in neuronal signal transmission.
C-Peptide Inhibits Decidualization in Human Endometrial Stromal Cells via GSK3β-PP1
Authors: Khaliq Sana Abdul , Baek Mi-Ock , Cho Hye-Jeong , Chon Seung Joo , Yoon Mee-Sup
Published: November 2020

Decidualization refers to the functional differentiation of endometrial stromal cells and plays a significant role in embryo implantation and pregnancy. C-peptide is excreted in equimolar concentrations as that of insulin during the metabolism of proinsulin in pancreatic beta-cells. High levels of C-peptide are correlated with hyperinsulinemia and polycystic ovarian syndrome, which show a defect in decidualization. However, the role of C-peptide in decidualization has not yet been studied. Here, we identified C-peptide as an endogenous antideciduogenic factor. This inhibitory function was confirmed by the reduced expression of decidual markers, including prolactin, insulin-like growth factor-binding protein-1, and Forkhead box protein O1 as well as by the fibroblastic morphological change in the presence of C-peptide. C-peptide also enhanced cellular senescence and decreased the proportion of apoptotic cells during decidualization. In addition, C-peptide potentiated the inhibitory effects of both insulin and palmitic acid in an AKT- and autophagy-independent manner, respectively. Furthermore, C-peptide augmented protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) activity, leading to a reduction in the inhibitory phosphorylation of glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)3β, which resulted in enhanced cellular senescence and decreased apoptosis during decidualization. Taken together, our findings suggest that C-peptide is an antideciduogenic factor acting via the regulation between PP1 and GSK3β in patients with hyperinsulinemia.
Replication of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium in RAW264.7 Phagocytes Correlates With Hypoxia and Lack of iNOS Expression
Authors: Wrande Marie , Vestö Kim , Puiac Banesaru Speranta , Anwar Naeem , Nordfjell Johan , Liu Lifeng , McInerney Gerald M. , Rhen Mikael
Published: November 2020

Salmonella infection associates with tissue hypoxia, while inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), relying for its activity on molecular oxygen, stands as a central host defence measure in murine salmonellosis. Here, we have detailed hypoxia and iNOS responses of murine macrophage-like RAW264.7 cells upon infection with Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium. We noted that only a proportion of the infected RAW264.7 cells became hypoxic or expressed iNOS. Heavily infected cells became hypoxic, while in parallel such cells tended not to express iNOS. While a proportion of the infected RAW264.7 cells revealed shutdown of protein synthesis, this was only detectable after 12 h post infection and after iNOS expression was induced in the cell culture. Our data implicate an intrinsic heterogeneity with regard to hypoxia and iNOS expression in a cell culture-based infection setting.
Insights Into Histoplasma capsulatum Behavior on Zinc Deprivation
Authors: Assunção Leandro do Prado , Moraes Dayane , Soares Lucas Weba , Silva-Bailão Mirelle Garcia , de Siqueira Janaina Gomes , Baeza Lilian Cristiane , Báo Sônia Nair , Soares Célia Maria de Almeida , Bailão Alexandre Melo
Published: November 2020

Histoplasma capsulatum is a thermodimorphic fungus that causes histoplasmosis, a mycosis of global incidence. The disease is prevalent in temperate and tropical regions such as North America, South America, Europe, and Asia. It is known that during infection macrophages restrict Zn availability to H. capsulatum as a microbicidal mechanism. In this way the present work aimed to study the response of H. capsulatum to zinc deprivation. In silico analyses showed that H. capsulatum has eight genes related to zinc homeostasis ranging from transcription factors to CDF and ZIP family transporters. The transcriptional levels of ZAP1, ZRT1, and ZRT2 were induced under zinc-limiting conditions. The decrease in Zn availability increases fungicidal macrophage activity. Proteomics analysis during zinc deprivation at 24 and 48 h showed 265 proteins differentially expressed at 24 h and 68 at 48 h. Proteins related to energy production pathways, oxidative stress, and cell wall remodeling were regulated. The data also suggested that low metal availability increases the chitin and glycan content in fungal cell wall that results in smoother cell surface. Metal restriction also induces oxidative stress triggered, at least in part, by reduction in pyridoxin synthesis.
ROP18-Mediated Transcriptional Reprogramming of HEK293T Cell Reveals New Roles of ROP18 in the Interplay Between Toxoplasma gondii and the Host Cell
Authors: Li Jie-Xi , He Jun-Jun , Elsheikha Hany M. , Ma Jun , Xu Xiao-Pei , Zhu Xing-Quan
Published: November 2020

Toxoplasma gondiisecretes a number of virulence-related effector proteins, such as the rhoptry protein 18 (ROP18). To further broaden our understanding of the molecular functions of ROP18, we examined the transcriptional response of human embryonic kidney cells (HEK293T) to ROP18 of type IT. gondiiRH strain. Using RNA-sequencing, we compared the transcriptome of ROP18-expressing HEK293T cells to control HEK293T cells. Our analysis revealed that ROP18 altered the expression of 750 genes (467 upregulated genes and 283 downregulated genes) in HEK293T cells. Gene ontology (GO) and pathway enrichment analyses showed that differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were significantly enriched in extracellular matrix– and immune–related GO terms and pathways. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed that DEGs were involved in several disease-related pathways, such as nervous system diseases and eye disease. ROP18 significantly increased the alternative splicing pattern “retained intron” and altered the expression of 144 transcription factors (TFs). These results provide new insight into how ROP18 may influence biological processes in the host cellsviaaltering the expression of genes, TFs, and pathways. Morein vitroandin vivostudies are required to substantiate these findings.
Cardiac Ambulatory Monitoring: New Wireless Device Validated Against Conventional Holter Monitoring in a Case Series
Authors: Murali Srinivasan , Brugger Nicolas , Rincon Francisco , Mashru Manoj , Cook Stéphane , Goy Jean-Jacques
Published: November 2020

Background: Cardiac arrhythmias are very common but underdiagnosed due to their transient and asymptomatic nature. An optimization of arrhythmia detection would permit to better treat patients and could substantially reduce morbidity and mortality. The SmartCardia ScaAI wireless patch is a novel CE IIa approved, single-lead electrocardiographic (ECG) ambulatory monitor designed for cardiac arrhythmias detection.

Hypothesis: The accuracy of the new SmartCardia wireless patch to detect arrhythmias is comparable to the conventional Holter monitoring.

Methods: Patients referred for a suspicion of arrhythmia between February and March 2020 were included in the trial. Simultaneous ambulatory ECG were recorded using a conventional 24-h Holter and the SmartCardia. The primary endpoint was the detection of cardiac arrhythmias over the total wear time of the devices, defined as premature atrial contraction (PAC), supraventricular tachycardia ≥3 beats, premature ventricular contraction (PVC), and ventricular tachycardia ≥3 beats. Conduction abnormalities, pause ≥2 s and atrioventricular block (AVB), were also tracked. McNemar's test was used to compare the matched pairs of data from both devices.

Results: A total of 40 patients were included in the trial. Over the total wear time, there was no significant difference between the devices for ventricular and supraventricular arrhythmias detection. Pauses and AVB were equally identified by the two devices in three patients.

Conclusion: Over the total wear time, the SmartCardia device showed an accuracy to detect arrhythmia similar to the 24-h Holter monitoring: single-lead, adhesive-patch monitoring might become an interesting alternative to the conventional Holter monitoring.
Nutrition and Metabolic Adaptations in Physiological and Complicated Pregnancy: Focus on Obesity and Gestational Diabetes
Authors: Parrettini Sara , Caroli Antonella , Torlone Elisabetta
Published: November 2020

Pregnancy offers a window of opportunity to program the future health of both mothers and offspring. During gestation, women experience a series of physical and metabolic modifications and adaptations, which aim to protect the fetus development and are closely related to both pre-gestational nutritional status and gestational weight gain. Moreover, pre-gestational obesity represents a challenge of treatment, and nowadays there are new evidence as regard its management, especially the adequate weight gain. Recent evidence has highlighted the determinant role of nutritional status and maternal diet on both pregnancy outcomes and long-term risk of chronic diseases, through a transgenerational flow, conceptualized by the Development Origin of Health and Diseases (Dohad) theory. In this review we will analyse the physiological and endocrine adaptation in pregnancy, and the metabolic complications, thus the focal points for nutritional and therapeutic strategies that we must early implement, virtually before conception, to safeguard the health of both mother and progeny. We will summarize the current nutritional recommendations and the use of nutraceuticals in pregnancy, with a focus on the management of pregnancy complicated by obesity and hyperglycemia, assessing the most recent evidence about the effects of ante-natal nutrition on the long-term, on either maternal health or metabolic risk of the offspring.
Research Progress of Reactor Thermal-Hydraulic Characteristics Under Ocean Conditions in China
Authors: Jie Xin
Published: November 2020

Floating nuclear power plants are affected by sea wind and waves, which will produce various forms of movement, and cause changes in the thermal and hydraulic characteristics of the reactor core and threaten the safety of reactor operation. In response to the R&D and design requirements of floating nuclear power plants, the research progress on the thermal-hydraulic characteristics of reactors under ocean conditions in China are reviewed in this paper. The emphasis is put on flow heat transfer, bubble behavior, flow instability, and critical heat flux under ocean conditions. Research progresses as well as the issues that need to be focused on in the future research are discussed in detail.
Functionally Modified Polyolefin-Based Separators for Lithium-Sulfur Batteries: Progress and Prospects
Authors: Li Jiaojiao , Xiao Zhen , Chen Anqi , Zhang Wenkui , Zhu Dongmin , Jin Yanxian , Mao Qinzhong , Wang Guoguang , He Jiarui , Xia Yang
Published: November 2020

The ever-growing demand for portable devices and electric vehicles are drawing widespread attention to advanced energy storage systems. Over the past few decades, lithium-sulfur batteries (LSBs) have vast potential to act as the next-generation of rechargeable power source due to their high theoretical specific energy, cost-effectiveness, and environmental benignity. However, insufficient sulfur utilization, inferior cyclability, and rate capability originating from the intrinsic insulating features of the sulfur and notorious polysulfide shuttle are major obstacles to fulfilling the industrialization of LSBs. In this respect, the introduction of a functional barrier layer coating on a separator has been verified as an effective strategy to overcome the aforementioned intractable problems. In this review, we focus on summarizing the current progress of the modified polyolefin-based separators (known as functional separators), including functional separator facing cathodes and functional separator facing anodes. According to the working mechanism, functional separator facing cathodes are divided into physical adsorption separators, chemical adsorption separators, catalytic conversion separators, and multifunctional separators. Meanwhile, functional separator facing anodes are classified into physical barrier separators, induced lithium growth separators, regulated lithium nucleation separators, and hybrid mechanism separators. Finally, the future perspective coupled with the practical utilization of functional separators in LSBs is proposed.
Inbreeding Depression in Genotypically Matched Diploid and Tetraploid Maize
Authors: Yao Hong , Srivastava Sanvesh , Swyers Nathan , Han Fangpu , Doerge Rebecca W. , Birchler James A.
Published: November 2020

The genetic and molecular basis of heterosis has long been studied but without a consensus about mechanism. The opposite effect, inbreeding depression, results from repeated self-pollination and leads to a reduction in vigor. A popular explanation for this reaction is the homozygosis of recessive, slightly deleterious alleles upon inbreeding. However, extensive studies in alfalfa indicated that inbreeding between diploids and autotetraploids was similar despite the fact that homozygosis of alleles would be dramatically different. The availability of tetraploid lines of maize generated directly from various inbred lines provided the opportunity to examine this issue in detail in perfectly matched diploid and tetraploid hybrids and their parallel inbreeding regimes. Identical hybrids at the diploid and tetraploid levels were inbred in triplicate for seven generations. At the conclusion of this regime, F1 hybrids and selected representative generations (S1, S3, S5, S7) were characterized phenotypically in randomized blocks during the same field conditions. Quantitative measures of the multiple generations of inbreeding provided little evidence for a distinction in the decline of vigor between the diploids and the tetraploids. The results suggest that the homozygosis of completely recessive, slightly deleterious alleles is an inadequate hypothesis to explain inbreeding depression in general.
Milestones in Personalized Medicine: From the Ancient Time to Nowadays—the Provocation of COVID-19
Authors: Visvikis-Siest Sophie , Theodoridou Danai , Kontoe Maria-Spyridoula , Kumar Satish , Marschler Michael
Published: November 2020

The first evidence of individual targeting medicine appeared in ancient times thousands of years ago. Various therapeutic approaches have been established since then. However, even nowadays, conventional therapies do not take into consideration individuals' idiosyncrasy and genetic make-up, failing thus to be effective in some cases. Over time, the necessity of a more precise and effective treatment resulted in the development of a scientific field currently known as “personalized medicine.” The numerous technological breakthroughs in this field have acknowledged personalized medicine as the next generation of diagnosis and treatment. Although personalized medicine has attracted a lot of attention the last years, there are still several obstacles hindering its application in clinical practice. These limitations have come to light recently, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This review describes the “journey” of personalized medicine over time, emphasizing on important milestones achieved through time. Starting from the treatment of malaria, as a first more personalized therapeutic approach, it highlights the need of new diagnostic tools and therapeutic regimens based on individuals' genetic background. Furthermore, it aims at raising global awareness regarding the current limitations and the necessity of a personalized strategy to overpass healthcare problems and hence, the current crisis.
A Novel Apoptosis-Related Gene Signature Predicts Biochemical Recurrence of Localized Prostate Cancer After Radical Prostatectomy
Authors: Zhang Qijie , Zhao Kai , Song Lebin , Ji Chengjian , Cong Rong , Luan Jiaochen , Zhou Xiang , Xia Jiadong , Song Ninghong
Published: November 2020

Background: Nowadays, predictions of biochemical recurrence (BCR) in localized prostate cancer (PCa) patients after radical prostatectomy (RP) are mainly based on clinical parameters with a low predictive accuracy. Given the critical role of apoptosis in PCa occurrence and progression, we aimed to establish a novel predictive model based on apoptosis-related gene signature and clinicopathological parameters that can improve risk stratification for BCR and assist in clinical decision-making.

Methods: Expression data and corresponding clinical information were obtained from four public cohorts, one from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset and three from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) dataset. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was performed to identify candidate modules closely correlated to BCR, and univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were utilized to build the gene signature. Time-dependent receiver operating curve (ROC) and Kaplan–Meier (KM) survival analysis were used to assess the prognostic value. Finally, we analyzed the expression of genes in the signature and validated the results using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR).

Results: The novel gene signature we established exhibited a high prognostic value and was able to act as an independent risk factor for BCR [Training set: P < 0.001, hazard ratio (HR) = 7.826; Validation set I: P = 0.006, HR = 2.655; Validation set II: P = 0.003, HR = 4.175; Validation set III: P < 0.001, HR = 3.008]. Nomogram based on the gene signature and clinical parameters was capable of distinguishing high-risk BCR patients. Additionally, functional enrichment analysis showed several enriched pathways and biological processes, which might help reveal the underlying mechanism. The expression results of qRT-PCR were consistent with TCGA results.

Conclusion: The apoptosis-related gene signature could serve as a powerful predictor and risk factor for BCR in localized PCa patients after RP.
Evolution of Genome-Organizing Long Non-coding RNAs in Metazoans
Authors: Ramírez-Colmenero América , Oktaba Katarzyna , Fernandez-Valverde Selene L.
Published: November 2020

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have important regulatory functions across eukarya. It is now clear that many of these functions are related to gene expression regulation through their capacity to recruit epigenetic modifiers and establish chromatin interactions. Several lncRNAs have been recently shown to participate in modulating chromatin within the spatial organization of the genome in the three-dimensional space of the nucleus. The identification of lncRNA candidates is challenging, as it is their functional characterization. Conservation signatures of lncRNAs are different from those of protein-coding genes, making identifying lncRNAs under selection a difficult task, and the homology between lncRNAs may not be readily apparent. Here, we review the evidence for these higher-order genome organization functions of lncRNAs in animals and the evolutionary signatures they display.
Covid-19 Using Border Controls to Fight a Pandemic? Reflections From the European Union
Authors: Guild Elspeth
Published: November 2020

When Covid-19 was acknowledged to have arrived in Europe in February-March 2020, politicians and public health authorities scrabbled to find appropriate and effective responses to the challenges. The EU obligation contained in Article 9 Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) requiring the EU (including the Member States to achieve a common protection on human health, however, seems to have been missing from the responses.) Instead, borders and their control became a site of substantial political debate across Europe as a possible venue for effective measures to limit the spread of the pandemic. While the most invasive Covid-19 measures have been within EU states, lockdown, closure of businesses etc., the cross-border aspects (limitations on cross border movement) have been important. In the European Union this had important consequences for EU law on border controls, in particular free movement of persons and the absence of controls among Schengen states. It also implicated border controls with third countries, including European Free Trade Area (EFTA and Switzerland) all states neighboring the EU, the UK (having left the EU on 1 January 2020) the Western Balkans and Turkey. While EU law distinguishes between Schengen borders where no control takes place on persons, non-Schengen EU borders, where controls take place but are limited to identity checks and border controls with third countries and external borders with third countries (non-EFTA or Swiss) the responses of many Member States and the EU institutions abandoned many aspects of these distinctions. Indeed, the difference between border controls between states (inside Schengen, the EU, EFTA, or outside) and internal restrictions on movement became increasingly blurred. Two approaches—public health and public policy—were applied simultaneously and not always in ways which were mutually coherent, or in any way consistent with the Article 9 TFEU commitment. While the public health approach to movement of persons is based on ensuring identification of those in need of treatment or possibly carrying the disease, providing treatment as quickly as possible or quarantine, the public policy approach is based on refusing entry to persons who are a risk irrespective of what that may mean in terms of propagating the pandemic in neighboring states or states of origin. I will examine here the ways in which the two approaches were applied in the EU from the perspective of EU law on border controls.
Current Progress on Host Antiviral Factor IFITMs
Authors: Ren Linzhu , Du Shouwen , Xu Wang , Li Tiyuan , Wu Shipin , Jin Ningyi , Li Chang
Published: November 2020

Host antiviral factor interferon-induced transmembrane proteins (IFITMs) are a kind of small-molecule transmembrane proteins induced by interferon. Their broad-spectrum antiviral activity and unique ability to inhibit viral invasion have made them a hot molecule in antiviral research in recent years. Since the first demonstration of their natural ability to resist viral infection in 1996, IFITMs have been reported to limit a variety of viral infections, including some major pathogens that seriously endanger human health and social stability, such as influenza A, Ebol, severe acute respiratory syndrome, AIDS, and Zika viruses, etc. Studies show that IFITMs mainly exert antiviral activity during virus entry, specifically interfering with the fusion of the envelope and the endosome membrane or forming fusion micropores to block the virus from entering the cytoplasm. However, their specific mechanism is still unclear. This article mainly reviews the research progress in the structure, evolution, function, and mechanism of IFITMs, which may provide a theoretical basis for clarifying the molecular mechanism of interaction between the molecules and viruses and the research and development of new antiviral drugs based on IFITMs.
Innate Lymphoid Cells in Human Pregnancy
Authors: Mendes João , Areia Ana Luísa , Rodrigues-Santos Paulo , Santos-Rosa Manuel , Mota-Pinto Anabela
Published: November 2020

Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are a new set of cells considered to be a part of the innate immune system. ILCs are classified into five subsets (according to their transcription factors and cytokine profile) as natural killer cells (NK cells), group 1 ILCs, group 2 ILCs, group 3 ILCs, and lymphoid tissue inducers (LTi). Functionally, these cells resemble the T helper population but lack the expression of recombinant genes, which is essential for the formation of T cell receptors. In this work, the authors address the distinction between peripheral and decidual NK cells, highlighting their diversity in ILC biology and its relevance to human pregnancy. ILCs are effector cells that are important in promoting immunity, inflammation, and tissue repair. Recent studies have directed their attention to ILC actions in pregnancy. Dysregulation or expansion of pro-inflammatory ILC populations as well as abnormal tolerogenic responses may directly interfere with pregnancy, ultimately resulting in pregnancy loss or adverse outcomes. In this review, we characterize these cells, considering recent findings and addressing knowledge gaps in perinatal medicine in the context of ILC biology. Moreover, we discuss the relevance of these cells not only to the process of immune tolerance, but also in disease.
Optimized Protocol for Characterization of Mouse Gut Innate Lymphoid Cells
Authors: Valle-Noguera Ana , Gómez-Sánchez María José , Girard-Madoux Mathilde J. H. , Cruz-Adalia Aranzazu
Published: November 2020

Since their discovery, innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) have gradually been gaining greater relevance in the field of immunology due to their multiple functions in the innate immune response. They can mainly be found in mucosal and barrier organs like skin, gut, and lungs, and have been classified into five main types (NKs, ILC1s, ILC2s, ILC3s, and Lti cells) according to their function and development. They all play major roles in functions such as tissue homeostasis, early pathogen defense, regulation of inflammation, or tissue remodeling. ILCs are mostly tissue-resident cells tightly bound to the tissue structure, a fact that requires long and complex protocols that do not always provide sufficient yield for analysis. This suggests the need for optimized approaches aimed at ensuring that enriched and viable ILC samples are obtained, in order to furnish quality results. Herein a detailed protocol is established for obtaining a single-cell suspension highly enriched in lymphoid cells from mouse gut in order to identify the different subsets of ILCs by means of flow cytometry. The cell marker panel and flow cytometry gating strategies for identification and quantification of all the different ILC populations are provided for simultaneous analysis. Moreover, the protocol described includes a procedure for studying the different cytokines produced by ILC3s involved in maintaining the integrity of the gut barrier and defending against extracellular pathogens. As a result, herein an efficient method is presented for studying mouse ILCs within the lamina propria of the small intestine and colon; this can constitute a useful tool for future investigations in the field.
Enhanced Fatty Acid Synthesis Leads to Subset Imbalance and IFN-γ Overproduction in T Helper 1 Cells
Authors: Iwata Shigeru , Zhang Mingzeng , Hao He , Trimova Gulzhan , Hajime Maiko , Miyazaki Yusuke , Ohkubo Naoaki , Satoh Kanda Yurie , Todoroki Yasuyuki , Miyata Hiroko , Ueno Masanobu , Nagayasu Atsushi , Nakayamada Shingo , Sakata Kei , Tanaka Yoshiya
Published: November 2020

Recent reports have shown the importance of IFN-γ and T-bet+ B cells in the pathology of SLE, suggesting the involvement of IFN-γ-producing T-bet+ CD4+ cells, i.e., Th1 cells. This study determined the changes in Th1 subsets with metabolic shift and their potential as therapeutic targets in SLE. Compared with healthy donors, patients with SLE had higher numbers of T-bethiCXCR3lo effector cells and T-bet+Foxp3lo non-suppressive cells, which excessively produce IFN-γ, and lower number of non-IFN-γ-producing T-bet+Foxp3hi activated-Treg cells. These changes were considered to be involved in treatment resistance. The differentiation mechanism of Th1 subsets was investigated in vitro using memory CD4+ cells obtained from healthy donors and patients with SLE. In memory CD4+ cells of healthy donors, both rapamycin and 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2DG) suppressed T-bet+Foxp3- cells, and induced T-bet+Foxp3+(lo/hi) cells. Rapamycin induced IFN-γ-producing T-bet+Foxp3lo cells accompanied with enhanced lipid metabolism, whereas 2DG induced IFN-γ-non-producing T-bet+Foxp3hi cells. In memory CD4+ cells of SLE patients, inhibition of fatty acid synthesis, but not β-oxidation, suppressed IFN-γ production, and up-regulated of Foxp3 expression in T-bet+Foxp3+ cells. Metabolic regulators such as fatty acid synthesis inhibitors may improve the pathological status by correcting Th1 subset imbalance and overproduction of IFN-γ in SLE.
CD38: An Immunomodulatory Molecule in Inflammation and Autoimmunity
Authors: Piedra-Quintero Zayda L. , Wilson Zachary , Nava Porfirio , Guerau-de-Arellano Mireia
Published: November 2020

CD38 is a molecule that can act as an enzyme, with NAD-depleting and intracellular signaling activity, or as a receptor with adhesive functions. CD38 can be found expressed either on the cell surface, where it may face the extracellular milieu or the cytosol, or in intracellular compartments, such as endoplasmic reticulum, nuclear membrane, and mitochondria. The main expression of CD38 is observed in hematopoietic cells, with some cell-type specific differences between mouse and human. The role of CD38 in immune cells ranges from modulating cell differentiation to effector functions during inflammation, where CD38 may regulate cell recruitment, cytokine release, and NAD availability. In line with a role in inflammation, CD38 appears to also play a critical role in inflammatory processes during autoimmunity, although whether CD38 has pathogenic or regulatory effects varies depending on the disease, immune cell, or animal model analyzed. Given the complexity of the physiology of CD38 it has been difficult to completely understand the biology of this molecule during autoimmune inflammation. In this review, we analyze current knowledge and controversies regarding the role of CD38 during inflammation and autoimmunity and novel molecular tools that may clarify current gaps in the field.
Microplastic Exposure by Razor Clam Recreational Harvester-Consumers Along a Sparsely Populated Coastline
Authors: Baechler Britta R. , Granek Elise F. , Mazzone Scott J. , Nielsen-Pincus Max , Brander Susanne M.
Published: November 2020

Microplastics (MPs) are anthropogenic contaminants found in coastal and marine environments worldwide. Pacific razor clams (Siliqua patula), important for local indigenous culture, economy, gastronomy and food security along the United States West Coast, are subjected to myriad environmental stressors including predation, storm events, disease, toxins, and MPs. This study aimed to determine MP burdens in Olympic Coast, Washington Pacific razor clams and estimate annual MP exposure of recreational razor clam harvester-consumers from eating this species. We quantified suspected MP burdens in Pacific razor clams collected from eight tribal, recreational, and commercial harvest areas on the Olympic Coast in April 2018. We administered questionnaires to 107 recreational razor clam harvesters during the same timeframe to determine consumption patterns, preparation styles, knowledge and concerns about MPs, and demographics. Razor clams containing suspected MPs, primarily microfibers, were found at all eight sites. Average suspected MP burden differed by sample type (whole = 6.75 ± 0.60, gut-tissue = 7.88 ± 0.71, non-gut tissue = 4.96 ± 0.56, and cleaned samples = 3.44 ± 0.25). FTIR analyses of a random subset of microfiber-type MPs in whole and cleaned clams indicated material types of polyethylene terephthalate, cellulose acetate, cellophane, polyester, nylon, and cellulose. The average number of razor clams consumed per meal by Olympic Coast recreational razor clam harvesters was 4.27 ± 0.27, which varied by gender and ethnicity, but not income or age. Harvesters ate 0–209 meals/year of razor clams (16.2% harvested but did not eat razor clams), and most respondents (88.3%) fully cleaned razor clams before consuming them. Annual suspected MP exposure for razor clam harvester-consumers was 60–3,070 for cleaned and 120–6,020 for whole clams. Our findings suggest Olympic Coast recreational razor clam harvester-consumers are exposed to low levels of MPs from eating razor clams. MP exposure can be reduced by roughly 50% if clams are cleaned before consumption. Our work serves as an important reference in the growing portfolio of Pacific Northwest microplastic research, to inform future MP attenuation recommendations and development of human health standards for this type of pollution.
Do Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and Track Two Processes Support Transboundary Marine Conservation? Lessons From Six Case Studies of Maritime Disputes
Authors: Teff-Seker Yael , Mackelworth Peter C. , Vega Fernández Tomás , McManus John , Nam Jungho , Tuda Arthur O. , Holcer Drasko
Published: November 2020

By definition, marine protected areas (MPAs) and other effective area-based conservation measures (OECMs) address spatial aspects of the ecological processes and marine features. Such a requirement is especially challenging in areas where there is no clearly defined jurisdiction. However, in these areas, assigning sovereignty and rights can be achieved through bilateral or multilateral agreements, or with the use of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) tools such as mediation and arbitration. In some cases, states may engage in transboundary marine conservation initiatives to provide an entry point to enable wider collaboration. These processes can also evolve into a form of ‘environmental peacebuilding’ while ideally maintaining ecosystem functioning and resilience as a core goal. Conversely, MPAs and OECMs can also be used to assert maritime sovereignty rights over disputed waters, under the pretext of conserving marine habitats. This paper identifies emerging issues of conflict resolution and their interaction with transboundary marine conservation. While ADR focuses on negotiations and facilitated processes between state representatives (“track one diplomacy”), we also discuss other forms and levels of marine environmental peacebuilding and dispute resolution, particularly those between civil society organizations (“track two diplomacy”). The six case studies presented highlight areas of recent maritime conflict or border disputes in the Mediterranean Sea, the Red Sea, the West Indian Ocean, the Korean West Sea and the South China Sea. In all cases, high ecological value, vulnerable ecosystems, and the need to conserve ecosystem services provide a shared interest for cooperation despite on-going diplomatic difficulties. The strategies used in these cases are analyzed to determine what lessons might be learned from cross-border collaborative marine initiatives in situations of territorial dispute. The use of ADR tools and their ability to support joint marine initiatives are examined, as well as how such initiatives contribute to formal border negotiations. Other forms of inter-state dialogue and cooperation between local or civil organizations, circumventing formal treaties and negotiations between state leaders (‘track two’) are also investigated. Finally, other influencing factors, including third-party involvement, stakeholder interests, power dynamics, economic context, and socio-cultural aspects, are considered.
Adapting Artificial Intelligence to Improve In Situ Concrete Compressive Strength Estimations in Rebound Hammer Tests
Authors: Wang Yu Ren , Lu Yen Ling , Chiang Dai Lun
Published: November 2020

Compressive strength is probably one the most crucial properties of concrete material. For existing structures, core samples are drilled and tested to obtain the concrete compressive strength. Many times, taking core samples is not feasible, and as a result, nondestructive methods to examine the concrete are required. The rebound hammer test is one of the most popular methods to estimate concrete compressive strength without causing damage to the existing structure. The test is inexpensive and can be easily conducted compared to other nondestructive testing methods. Also, concrete compressive strength estimations can be obtained almost instantly. However, previous results have shown that concrete compressive strength estimations obtained from rebound hammer tests are not very accurate. As a result, this research attempts to apply artificial intelligence prediction models to estimate concrete compressive strength using data from in situ rebound hammer tests. The results show that artificial intelligence methods can effectively improve in situ concrete compressive strength estimations in rebound hammer tests.
Combining Stochastic Resonance Vibration With Exergaming for Motor-Cognitive Training in Long-Term Care; A Sham-Control Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial
Authors: de Bruin Eling D. , Baur Heiner , Brülhart Yvonne , Luijckx Eefje , Hinrichs Timo , Rogan Slavko
Published: November 2020

Purpose: Physical and mental functions allow classifying older adults as “Go-Go” (independent functioning); “Slow-Go” (in need of care with a slight handicap); and “No-Go” (in need of care with severe functional limitation). The latter group exhibits reduced exercise tolerance. More recently technology-based motor-cognitive types of training services emerged as a possible training service. This study examined the use of technology including stochastic resonance whole-body vibration and Exergame-dance training for motor-cognitive training in care home dwelling adults.

Methods: Seventeen older adults (10 women, 7 men, age range: 79–98) were randomly assigned to the intervention (IG, n = 9) or the sham group (SG, n = 8). IG performed five sets of 1-min whole-body vibration with 1-min rest in between, three times a week for the first 4 weeks of the training period with varying frequency. From weeks five to eight the Exergame-dance training was conducted after the vibration sessions. SG performed a stochastic resonance whole-body vibration training with the same terms applied, however, with a fixed frequency of 1 Hz, Noise 1. From weeks five to eight a passive trampoline-programme of 5 min was applied following the vibration sessions. Primary outcome was the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). Secondary outcomes were the Trail Making Test A and B (TMT A & B) and the Falls Efficacy Scale–International (FES-I). Outcomes were measured at baseline, after 4 and 8 weeks of intervention and at follow-up (4 weeks after the intervention). The non-parametric Puri and Sen rank-order test was applied, followed by an ANOVA for repeated measures to analyse main and interaction effects. Mann–Whitney U-Test was used to determine differences between the groups.

Results: The post-hoc analysis showed significant effects on the SPPB total score with large effect sizes from baseline to 8 weeks (+72%, p = 0.005, η2 = 0.423). The TMT part B displayed significant improvements with large effect sizes from baseline to 8 weeks (+17.5%, p = 0.002, η2 = 0.779) and to follow-up (+21%, p = 0.001, η2 = 0.827).

Conclusion: The technology based 8-week training programme consisting of a combination of stochastic resonance whole-body vibration and Exergame-dance training showed beneficial effects on both physical and cognitive performance in older care home dwelling adults.