bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Automatic segmentation algorithm for breast cell image based on multi-scale CNN and CSS corner detection
Authors: Tang Haoyang , Song Cong , Qian Meng
Published: October 2020

As the shapes of breast cell are diverse and there is adherent between cells, fast and accurate segmentation for breast cell remains a challenging task. In this paper, an automatic segmentation algorithm for breast cell image is proposed, which focuses on the segmentation of adherent cells. First of all, breast cell image enhancement is carried out by the staining regularization. Then, the cells and background are separated by Multi-scale Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) to obtain the initial segmentation results. Finally, the Curvature Scale Space (CSS) corner detection is used to segment adherent cells. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm can achieve 93.01% accuracy, 93.93% sensitivity and 95.69% specificity. Compared with other segmentation algorithms of breast cell, the proposed algorithm can not only solve the difficulty of segmenting adherent cells, but also improve the segmentation accuracy of adherent cells.
Dynamic leg length measurement is a valid method for detecting anatomic leg length discrepancy
Authors: Khamis Sam
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND: Even though the importance of leg length discrepancy (LLD), with its potential of causing several pathological conditions or gait deviations, is well known, measuring LLD is still challenging with limited reliability and validity. OBJECTIVE: To assess the capability of the dynamic leg length (DLL) measurement in detecting the presence of anatomic LLD. METHODS: A lower limb x-ray was performed on 15 participants with suspected LLD in addition to a gait analysis study using a motion analysis system to measure DLL (the absolute distance from the hip joint centre to the heel, to the ankle joint centre and to the forefoot). Average DLLs were compared between sides for symmetry by the paired t-test at 51 sample points during the gait cycle in conjunction with the differences between the sides based on the maximal stance phase and minimal swing phase DLLs. Differences were correlated with anatomic LLD by Pearson correlation. RESULTS: No significant differences in DLLs between sides throughout the gait cycle were found. Significant differences between sides were found between the maximal stance and minimal swing phase DLLs. CONCLUSIONS: DLL measurement is capable of detecting an anatomic leg length difference based on functional changes in leg length and functional discrepancy.
COVID-19 Infection in children and adolescent with cancer in Madrid
Authors: de Rojas Teresa , Madero Luis
Published: October 2020

Although children with cancer are considered high-risk population for COVID-19 infection, available data continue to be scarce.
We present all 15 pediatric oncology patients infected with COVID-19 in Madrid to date, at the center of the pandemic. All patients presented with either asymptomatic, or mild-moderate disease; only two required oxygen therapy. All patients had favorable outcomes.
The prevalence of COVID-19 infection among children with cancer in Madrid is 1.3%. Although this patient population is managed as high-risk, the clinical features seem milder and the prognosis better than in the adult population.
A Novel Packet Scheduling for Wireless Channels with Adaptive Burst Profile
Authors: Nam Do Hoai , Dung Luong Dinh
Published: October 2020

This paper proposes an Adaptive Profile Packet Scheduling (APS) algorithm for the down-link of IEEE 802.16 W-MAN, which is identified as a candidate standard for High Attitude Platforms (HAP) in the EU IST CAPANINA project. The proposed APS takes into account different wireless channel conditions observed by different subscriber stations to enhance the whole system utility and preserves the property of the long-term fairness.
Aikuiskoulutuksen kysyntä ja työvoiman tarve
Authors: Poropudas Olli
Published: October 2020

Turkulaiset tutkijat Osmo Kivinen, Risto Rinne, Sakari Ahola ja Arto Kankaanpää julkaisivat vuoden vaihteessa kirjan ”Työelämä, koulutus ja ennusteet” (Opetusministeriön suunnittelusihteeristön julkaisuja 6/1989, Valtion painatuskeskus, Helsinki). Teoksen yksi luku on omistettu koulutussuunnittelun neuvottelukunnan laatiman '”Väestön koulutus 2000” -mietinnön (Helsinki 1988) kritiikille. Kommentoin tässä turkulaisten niitä näkemyksiä, jotka liittyvät aikuiskoulutuksen määrälliseen suunnitteluun.
Opettajaeksperttiyden kehittyminen
Authors: Ropo Eero
Published: October 2020

Eksperttiyden olemusta koskeva tutkimus alkoi 1960-luvulla. Sen jälkeen eksperttiyttä on tarkasteltu monilla ammattialoilla. Opettajien eksperttiystutkimuksen käynnistäjä on Pittsburgin yliopistossa työskentelevä Gaea Leinhardt, joka on jaotellut eksperttiyden viiteen asteeseen. Artikkelissa käsitellään eksperttiyden kehittymisen peruspiirteitä yhdeksän väittämän pohjalta. Artikkelin mukaan eksperttiyden tutkimus on tähän asti tarkastellut eroja kokeneiden ja aloittelevien välillä. Kuitenkin prosessit, jotka ovat johtaneet erojen syntymiseen, ovat pääosin tuntemattomia.
Aikuiskasvatus ja jatkuva koulutus
Authors: Groombridge Brian
Published: October 2020

Katsaus on kirjoitettu Life and Education in Finland -lehteen ja julkaistu siinä englanninkielisenä numerossa 2/91.
UTILIZING QUESTIONING TECHNIQUE TO IMPROVE THE STUDENTS’ COMPREHENSION SKILLS ON EXPOSITORY TEXTS
Authors: Hidayatullah Heri
Published: October 2020

This collaborative classroom action research (CAR) which was assembled in two cycles aimed at describing the implementation of questioning technique in improving the students’ comprehension skills on expository text.  The procedures of instruction involve four steps namely (1) explaining and brainstorming; (2) grouping and discussing; (3) leading; and (4) concluding and presenting. The finding which supported by data on the teaching-learning process shows that the percentage of the students who get greater than or equal to 20 point at the first test is 59.5 % and 80 % in the second test. Accordingly, with 70 % of the participants get 20 point in the set-up criteria of success, it concluded that such technique is still outstanding in improving the students’ comprehension skills on expository texts type.
NEED ANALYSIS IN ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNING (ELL) CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENTS
Authors: Aprianto Dedi
Published: October 2020

Lately, the arguable consensus of curriculum has many of cavities, the experts, academicians, and stake-holders, take position, in purpose of settling the curriculum problems. The globalizing aspects of life must have had the curriculum makers do the revisions as well as developments toward the present curriculum. Developing curriculum should be setting out needs of students hence it must be related to the contexts. So, competitiveness as the keystone to develop the students’ needs. The development of the language learning curriculum should be paid attention in terms of constructed curriculum design having based on the theoretically-constituted frameworks. In the context of curriculum development, the basic assumption which should be considered in the educational programs, that is, the analysis of students’ needs. Need analysis as part of system approach to curriculum developments in the scope of educational programs. This procedure let most of linguists to employ needs analysis as the basis to language learning curriculum. The usage of such procedure is underlain upon the learners’ needs toward competitive world. In addition, the development and implementation of English Language Learning programs must be approached to the three aspects of English learning programs. These have different implications to the curriculum development, that is, each of them differs in relation to the input, process, and output. Thus, the general part of English language program curriculum design can be divided to forward design; concerning to the syllabus design, center design; the methodology of learning , and backward design; the assessment is based on the learners’ outcomes. In turn, the three designs of language learning program must be in accordance with philosophical purposes of curriculum.
Peningkatan Kompetensi Pedagogik Guru dalam Pembelajaran Jarak Jauh Melalui Pendampingan Sistem Daring, Luring, atau Kombinasi pada Masa New Normal Covid-19
Authors: Ahmad Ahmad
Published: October 2020

The purpose of this study was to improve the pedagogical competence of teachers in online, offline and combined distance learning in the Assisted Primary Schools of Segugus 05 Kopang, Central Lombok Regency. This research method used classroom action research. The data collection technique uses classroom observation techniques using the observation sheet instrument of teacher competency assessment in implementing distance learning programs (PJJ). The data analysis technique in this study used a comparative descriptive analysis technique. The results showed that PJJ with BDR (Learning From Home) with the Online, Offline or Combination system was able to improve teacher competence in learning. In Cycle-1, there was an increase in teacher competence in PJJ by 3.9%. However, this increase was successful when compared with the research success criteria with an increase of 5%. In Cycle-2, the increase in teacher competence in PJJ was 4.2%. In Cycle-3, the increase in teacher competence in PJJ was 14.1%. This study was successful because there was an increase in the research success criteria of 5%.
Selective Abstention in Simultaneous Elections: Understanding the Turnout Gap
Authors: Dehdari Sirus , Meriläinen Jaakko , Oskarsson Sven
Published: October 2020

If two elections are held at the same day, why do some people choose to vote in one but to abstain in another? We argue that selective abstention is driven by same factors that determine voter turnout. Our empirical analysis focuses on Sweden where the turnout gap between local and national elections has been about 2-3%. Rich administrative registry data reveal that people from higher socio-economic backgrounds, immigrants, women, older individuals, and people who have been less geographically mobile are less likely to selectively abstain.
Comparative Analysis of G1P[8] Rotaviruses Identified Prior to Vaccine Implementation in Pakistan With Rotarix™ and RotaTeq™ Vaccine Strains
Authors: Sadiq Asma , Bostan Nazish
Published: October 2020

Group A rotavirus (RVA) is the leading cause of severe childhood diarrhea globally, even with all effective interventions, particularly in developing countries. Among the diverse genotypes of RVA, G1P[8] is a common genotype that has continued to pervade around the world, including Pakistan. Two universally accepted rotavirus vaccines-Rotarix™ and RotaTeq™ contain the genotype G1P[8]. The current work was aimed at identifying differences between antigenic epitopes of Pakistan’s G1P[8] strains and those of the two licensed vaccines. We sequenced 6 G1P[8] rotavirus strains previously reported in Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Pakistan in 2015 and 2016 for their outer capsid genes (VP7 and VP4). Phylogenetic analysis was then conducted in order to classify their specific lineages and to detect their association with strains isolated throughout world. Compared with the Rotarix™ and RotaTeq™ vaccine strains (G1-lineage II, P[8]-lineage III), our study G1-lineage I, P[8]-lineage IV strains showed 3 and 5 variations in the VP7 epitopes, respectively, and 13 and 11 variations in the VP4 epitopes, respectively. The G1 lineage II strains showed no single amino acid change compared to Rotarix™ (lineage II), but exhibited changes at 2 positions compared to RotaTeq™ (lineage III). So, this has been proposed that these G1 strains exist in our natural setting, or that they may have been introduced in Pakistan from other countries of the world. The distinct P[8]-lineage IV (OP354-like) strains showed twelve and thirteen amino acid variations, with Rotarix™ and RotaTeq™ (lineages II and III) strains, respectively. Such findings have shown that the VP4-P[8] component of the G1P[8] strains circulating in Pakistan differs considerably from that of the vaccine viruses compared to that of the VP7-G1. To monitor the long-term effects of vaccines on the emergence of G1P[8] strains with different lineages, routine and successful monitoring of these strains will be crucial.
Multi-Winner Election Control via Social Influence: Hardness and Algorithms for Restricted Cases
Authors: Abouei Mehrizi Mohammad , D'Angelo Gianlorenzo
Published: October 2020

Nowadays, many political campaigns are using social influence in order to convince voters to support/oppose a specific candidate/party. In election control via social influence problem, an attacker tries to find a set of limited influencers to start disseminating a political message in a social network of voters. A voter will change his opinion when he receives and accepts the message. In constructive case, the goal is to maximize the number of votes/winners of a target candidate/party, while in destructive case, the attacker tries to minimize them. Recent works considered the problem in different models and presented some hardness and approximation results. In this work, we consider multi-winner election control through social influence on different graph structures and diffusion models, and our goal is to maximize/minimize the number of winners in our target party. We show that the problem is hard to approximate when voters’ connections form a graph, and the diffusion model is the linear threshold model. We also prove the same result considering an arborescence under independent cascade model. Moreover, we present a dynamic programming algorithm for the cases that the voting system is a variation of straight-party voting, and voters form a tree.
Genome-Wide Characterization and Comparative Analyses of Simple Sequence Repeats among Four Miniature Pig Breeds
Authors: Wang Hongyang , Fu Yang , Gu Peng , Zhang Yingying , Tu Weilong , Chao Zhe , Wu Huali , Cao Jianguo , Zhou Xiang , Liu Bang , Michal Jennifer J. , Fan Chun , Tan Yongsong
Published: October 2020

Simple sequence repeats (SSRs) are commonly used as molecular markers in research on genetic diversity and discrimination among taxa or breeds because polymorphisms in these regions contribute to gene function and phenotypically important traits. In this study, we investigated genome-wide characteristics, repeat units, and polymorphisms of SSRs using sequencing data from SSR-enriched libraries created from Wuzhishan (WZS), Bama (BM), inbred Luchuan (LC) and Zangxiang (ZX) miniature pig breeds. The numbers and types of SSRs, distributions of repeat units and polymorphic SSRs varied among the four breeds. Compared to the Duroc pig reference genome, 2518 polymorphic SSRs were unique and common to all four breeds and functional annotation revealed that they may affect the coding and regulatory regions of genes. Several examples, such as FGF23, MYF6, IGF1R, and LEPROT, are associated with growth and development in pigs. Three of the polymorphic SSRs were selected to confirm the polymorphism and the corresponding alleles through fluorescence polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and capillary electrophoresis. Together, this study provides useful insights into the discovery, characteristics and distribution of SSRs in four pig breeds. The polymorphic SSRs, especially those common and unique to all four pig breeds, might affect associated genes and play important roles in growth and development.
Properties of Rennet Cheese Made from Whole and Skimmed Summer and Winter Milk on a Traditional Polish Dairy Farm
Authors: Czyżak-Runowska Grażyna , Wójtowski Jacek Antoni , Gogół Danuta , Wojtczak Janusz , Skrzypczak Ewa , Stanisławski Daniel
Published: October 2020

The aim of this study was to compare the rheological and physicochemical parameters, as well as the organoleptic properties, of soft rennet cheese made from whole and skimmed milk in different seasons on a traditional family farm. We analyzed milk from twenty Polish Holstein–Friesian cows for basic composition, number of somatic cells, acidity, and color in terms of the Comission Internationale de l’Eclairage (CIE) lightness*redness*yellowness (L*a*b*) system, and 24 cheeses in terms of texture, acidity, color in terms of the CIE L*a*b* system, and organoleptic parameters in summer and winter. We determined the effects of the season and the fat content of milk on the pH, titratable acidity, color, firmness, and stickiness of the cheese. Cheeses from summer milk showed greater acidification than those from winter milk (p ≤ 0.05). Skimmed milk cheeses from both seasons showed increased firmness and stickiness, and worse organoleptic characteristics, particularly in taste and consistency, than whole milk cheeses (p ≤ 0.05). The highest level of yellow (b*) was found in whole milk summer cheeses; those produced in winter were 16% less yellow. Milk from traditional family farms is a valuable raw ingredient for the production of soft, unripe rennet cheese. However, the variability of organoleptic characteristics related to the season should be taken into account in cheese production. Skimmed cheese can serve as an alternative to full-fat cheese, especially for people looking for low-fat products, regardless of the time of year.
Nitrous Oxide from Beef Cattle Manure: Effects of Temperature, Water Addition and Manure Properties on Denitrification and Nitrification
Authors: Waldrip Heidi M. , Parker David B. , Miller Sierra , Miller Daniel N. , Casey Kenneth D. , Todd Richard W. , Min Byeng R. , Spiehs Mindy J. , Woodbury Bryan
Published: October 2020

Beef feedyards produce nitrous oxide (N2O), a potent greenhouse gas. Limited research has evaluated the processes that produce feedyard N2O, and how rainfall and temperature impact N2O losses. Manure in feedyard pens develops into a complex ecosystem of microbes, extracellular enzymes, feces, and urine, with varying H2O content. This study aimed to improve understanding of feedyard N cycling under differing environmental conditions by incubation of manure in simulated feedyard pens using large chambers under laboratory conditions. We hypothesized that nitrification was the primary source of feedyard N2O, with interactions among temperature, H2O content, and manure properties. Emissions of N2O were monitored with a real–time N2O analyzer. Manure samples were taken at intervals for analyses of physicochemical properties, denitrification enzyme activity (DEA), and nitrification activity (NA). Due to equipment limitations, there was only one chamber per temperature tested. Correlation was poor among N2O emissions and rates of DEA and NA. However, significant relationships were found among key manure characteristics, such as ammonia/ammonium and nitrate/nitrite concentrations, manure dry matter, redox status, and temperature. These data suggest that most N2O was derived from denitrification in the top 5 cm of the manure pack. Further study is warranted to identify the processes involved in flushes of N2O emitted immediately after rainfall, possibly due to abiotic chemical reactions that release N2O sequestered in manure pores.
Mass Transport of Gases across the Air–Water Interface: Implications for Aldehyde Emissions in the Uinta Basin, Utah, USA
Authors: Mansfield Marc L.
Published: October 2020

When they dissolve in water, aldehydes become hydrated to gem-diols: R−COH+H2O↔RCH(OH)2. Such reactions can complicate air–water transport models. Because of a persistent belief that the gem-diols do not exist in the vapor phase, typical models do not allow them to pass through the air–water interface, but in fact, they do. Therefore, transport models that allow both molecular forms to exist in both phases and to pass through the interface are needed. Such a model is presented here as a generalization of Whitman’s two-film model. Since Whitman’s model has fallen into disuse, justification of its use is also given. There are hypothetical instances for which the flux predicted by the current model is significantly larger than the flux predicted when models forbid the diol form from passing through the interface. However, for formaldehyde and acetaldehyde, the difference is about 6% and 2%, respectively.
Ubiquitin and Ubiquitin-Like Proteins Are Essential Regulators of DNA Damage Bypass
Authors: Wilkinson Nicole A. , Mnuskin Katherine S. , Ashton Nicholas W. , Woodgate Roger
Published: October 2020

Many endogenous and exogenous factors can induce genomic instability in human cells, in the form of DNA damage and mutations, that predispose them to cancer development. Normal cells rely on DNA damage bypass pathways such as translesion synthesis (TLS) and template switching (TS) to replicate past lesions that might otherwise result in prolonged replication stress and lethal double-strand breaks (DSBs). However, due to the lower fidelity of the specialized polymerases involved in TLS, the activation and suppression of these pathways must be tightly regulated by post-translational modifications such as ubiquitination in order to limit the risk of mutagenesis. Many cancer cells rely on the deregulation of DNA damage bypass to promote carcinogenesis and tumor formation, often giving them heightened resistance to DNA damage from chemotherapeutic agents. In this review, we discuss the key functions of ubiquitin and ubiquitin-like proteins in regulating DNA damage bypass in human cells, and highlight ways in which these processes are both deregulated in cancer progression and might be targeted in cancer therapy.
Protein Disulphide Isomerase A1 Is Involved in the Regulation of Breast Cancer Cell Adhesion and Transmigration via Lung Microvascular Endothelial Cells
Authors: Stojak Marta , Milczarek Magdalena , Kurpinska Anna , Suraj-Prazmowska Joanna , Kaczara Patrycja , Wojnar-Lason Kamila , Banach Joanna , Stachowicz-Suhs Martyna , Rossowska Joanna , Kalviņš Ivars , Wietrzyk Joanna , Chlopicki Stefan
Published: October 2020

Cancer cell cross-talk with the host endothelium plays a crucial role in metastasis, but the underlying mechanisms are still not fully understood. We studied the involvement of protein disulphide isomerase A1 (PDIA1) in human breast cancer cell (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231) adhesion and transendothelial migration. For comparison, the role of PDIA1 in proliferation, migration, cell cycle and apoptosis was also assessed. Pharmacological inhibitor, bepristat 2a and PDIA1 silencing were used to inhibit PDIA1. Inhibition of PDIA1 by bepristat 2a markedly decreased the adhesion of breast cancer cells to collagen type I, fibronectin and human lung microvascular endothelial cells. Transendothelial migration of breast cancer cells across the endothelial monolayer was also inhibited by bepristat 2a, an effect not associated with changes in ICAM-1 expression or changes in cellular bioenergetics. The silencing of PDIA1 produced less pronounced anti-adhesive effects. However, inhibiting extracellular free thiols by non-penetrating blocker p-chloromercuribenzene sulphonate substantially inhibited adhesion. Using a proteomic approach, we identified that β1 and α2 integrins were the most abundant among all integrins in breast cancer cells as well as in lung microvascular endothelial cells, suggesting that integrins could represent a target for PDIA1. In conclusion, extracellular PDIA1 plays a major role in regulating the adhesion of cancer cells and their transendothelial migration, in addition to regulating cell cycle and caspase 3/7 activation by intracellular PDIA1. PDIA1-dependent regulation of cancer–endothelial cell interactions involves disulphide exchange and most likely integrin activation but is not mediated by the regulation of ICAM-1 expression or changes in cellular bioenergetics in breast cancer or endothelial cells.
Neurofilament Light Chain as A Biomarker for Brain Metastases
Authors: Winther-Larsen Anne , Hviid Claus Vinter Bødker , Meldgaard Peter , Sorensen Boe Sandahl , Sandfeld-Paulsen Birgitte
Published: October 2020

Background: Brain metastases are feared complications in cancer. Treatment by neurosurgical resection and stereotactic radiosurgery are only available when metastatic lesions are limited and early detection is warranted. The neurofilament light chain (NfL) is a sensitive neuron-specific biomarker released following neuronal decay. We explored serum NfL as a biomarker of brain metastases. Methods: Serum was collected from 43 stage IV lung cancer patients with brain metastases and 25 stage I lung cancer patients. Serum was collected at time of cancer diagnosis and at time of brain metastasis diagnosis. In nine patients with brain metastases, additional samples were available between the two time points. NfL was quantified by Single Molecule Array (Simoa)™. Results: The median NfL level was significantly higher in patients with brain metastases than in patients without (35 versus 16 pg/mL, p = 0.001) and separated patients with an area under the curve of 0.77 (0.66–0.89). An increase in NfL could be measured median 3 months (range: 1–5) before the brain metastasis diagnosis. Further, a high level of NfL at time of brain metastasis diagnosis correlated with an inferior survival (hazard ratio: 2.10 (95% confidence interval: 1.11–3.98)). Conclusions: This study implies that NfL could be a potential biomarker of brain metastases.
The Functioning of Na+-ATPases from Protozoan Parasites: Are These Pumps Targets for Antiparasitic Drugs?
Authors: Dick Claudia F. , Meyer-Fernandes José Roberto , Vieyra Adalberto
Published: October 2020

The ENA ATPases (from exitus natru: the exit of sodium) belonging to the P-type ATPases are structurally very similar to the sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA); they exchange Na+ for H+ and, therefore, are also known as Na+-ATPases. ENA ATPases are required in alkaline milieu, as in the case for Aspergillus, where other transporters cannot mediate an uphill Na+ efflux. They are also important for salt tolerance, as described for Arabidopsis. During their life cycles, protozoan parasites might encounter a high pH environment, thus allowing consideration of ENA ATPases as possible targets for controlling certain severe parasitic diseases, such as Chagas’ Disease. Phylogenetic analysis has now shown that, besides the types IIA, IIB, IIC, and IID P-type ATPases, there exists a 5th subgroup of ATPases classified as ATP4-type ATPases, found in Plasmodium falciparum and Toxoplasma gondii. In malaria, for example, some drugs targeting PfATP4 destroy Na+ homeostasis; these drugs, which include spiroindolones, are now in clinical trials. The ENA P-type (IID P-type ATPase) and ATP4-type ATPases have no structural homologue in mammalian cells, appearing only in fungi, plants, and protozoan parasites, e.g., Trypanosoma cruzi, Leishmania sp., Toxoplasma gondii, and Plasmodium falciparum. This exclusivity makes Na+-ATPase a potential candidate for the biologically-based design of new therapeutic interventions; for this reason, Na+-ATPases deserves more attention.
Intrathymic Selection and Defects in the Thymic Epithelial Cell Development
Authors: García-Ceca Javier , Montero-Herradón Sara , Zapata Agustín G.
Published: October 2020

Intimate interactions between thymic epithelial cells (TECs) and thymocytes (T) have been repeatedly reported as essential for performing intrathymic T-cell education. Nevertheless, it has been described that animals exhibiting defects in these interactions were capable of a proper positive and negative T-cell selection. In the current review, we first examined distinct types of TECs and their possible role in the immune surveillance. However, EphB-deficient thymi that exhibit profound thymic epithelial (TE) alterations do not exhibit important immunological defects. Eph and their ligands, the ephrins, are implicated in cell attachment/detachment and govern, therefore, TEC–T interactions. On this basis, we hypothesized that a few normal TE areas could be enough for a proper phenotypical and functional maturation of T lymphocytes. Then, we evaluated in vivo how many TECs would be necessary for supporting a normal T-cell differentiation, concluding that a significantly low number of TEC are still capable of supporting normal T lymphocyte maturation, whereas with fewer numbers, T-cell maturation is not possible.
Use of a Hybrid Adeno-Associated Viral Vector Transposon System to Deliver the Insulin Gene to Diabetic NOD Mice
Authors: La Que T. , Ren Binhai , Logan Grant J. , Cunningham Sharon C. , Khandekar Neeta , Nassif Najah T. , O’Brien Bronwyn A. , Alexander Ian E. , Simpson Ann M.
Published: October 2020

Previously, we used a lentiviral vector to deliver furin-cleavable human insulin (INS-FUR) to the livers in several animal models of diabetes using intervallic infusion in full flow occlusion (FFO), with resultant reversal of diabetes, restoration of glucose tolerance and pancreatic transdifferentiation (PT), due to the expression of beta (β)-cell transcription factors (β-TFs). The present study aimed to determine whether we could similarly reverse diabetes in the non-obese diabetic (NOD) mouse using an adeno-associated viral vector (AAV) to deliver INS-FUR ± the β-TF Pdx1 to the livers of diabetic mice. The traditional AAV8, which provides episomal expression, and the hybrid AAV8/piggyBac that results in transgene integration were used. Diabetic mice that received AAV8-INS-FUR became hypoglycaemic with abnormal intraperitoneal glucose tolerance tests (IPGTTs). Expression of β-TFs was not detected in the livers. Reversal of diabetes was not achieved in mice that received AAV8-INS-FUR and AAV8-Pdx1 and IPGTTs were abnormal. Normoglycaemia and glucose tolerance were achieved in mice that received AAV8/piggyBac-INS-FUR/FFO. Definitive evidence of PT was not observed. This is the first in vivo study using the hybrid AAV8/piggyBac system to treat Type 1 diabetes (T1D). However, further development is required before the system can be used for gene therapy of T1D.
Mechanistic Actions of microRNAs in Diabetic Wound Healing
Authors: Petkovic Marija , Sørensen Anja Elaine , Leal Ermelindo Carreira , Carvalho Eugenia , Dalgaard Louise Torp
Published: October 2020

Wound healing is a complex biological process that is impaired under diabetes conditions. Chronic non-healing wounds in diabetes are some of the most expensive healthcare expenditures worldwide. Early diagnosis and efficacious treatment strategies are needed. microRNAs (miRNAs), a class of 18–25 nucleotide long RNAs, are important regulatory molecules involved in gene expression regulation and in the repression of translation, controlling protein expression in health and disease. Recently, miRNAs have emerged as critical players in impaired wound healing and could be targets for potential therapies for non-healing wounds. Here, we review and discuss the mechanistic background of miRNA actions in chronic wounds that can shed the light on their utilization as specific wound healing biomarkers.
Systematic Surveys of Iron Homeostasis Mechanisms Reveal Ferritin Superfamily and Nucleotide Surveillance Regulation to be Modified by PINK1 Absence
Authors: Key Jana , Sen Nesli Ece , Arsović Aleksandar , Krämer Stella , Hülse Robert , Khan Natasha Nadeem , Meierhofer David , Gispert Suzana , Koepf Gabriele , Auburger Georg
Published: October 2020

Iron deprivation activates mitophagy and extends lifespan in nematodes. In patients suffering from Parkinson’s disease (PD), PINK1-PRKN mutations via deficient mitophagy trigger iron accumulation and reduce lifespan. To evaluate molecular effects of iron chelator drugs as a potential PD therapy, we assessed fibroblasts by global proteome profiles and targeted transcript analyses. In mouse cells, iron shortage decreased protein abundance for iron-binding nucleotide metabolism enzymes (prominently XDH and ferritin homolog RRM2). It also decreased the expression of factors with a role for nucleotide surveillance, which associate with iron-sulfur-clusters (ISC), and are important for growth and survival. This widespread effect included prominently Nthl1-Ppat-Bdh2, but also mitochondrial Glrx5-Nfu1-Bola1, cytosolic Aco1-Abce1-Tyw5, and nuclear Dna2-Elp3-Pold1-Prim2. Incidentally, upregulated Pink1-Prkn levels explained mitophagy induction, the downregulated expression of Slc25a28 suggested it to function in iron export. The impact of PINK1 mutations in mouse and patient cells was pronounced only after iron overload, causing hyperreactive expression of ribosomal surveillance factor Abce1 and of ferritin, despite ferritin translation being repressed by IRP1. This misregulation might be explained by the deficiency of the ISC-biogenesis factor GLRX5. Our systematic survey suggests mitochondrial ISC-biogenesis and post-transcriptional iron regulation to be important in the decision, whether organisms undergo PD pathogenesis or healthy aging.
TAZ Represses the Neuronal Commitment of Neural Stem Cells
Authors: Robledinos-Antón Natalia , Escoll Maribel , Guan Kun-Liang , Cuadrado Antonio
Published: October 2020

The mechanisms involved in regulation of quiescence, proliferation, and reprogramming of Neural Stem Progenitor Cells (NSPCs) of the mammalian brain are still poorly defined. Here, we studied the role of the transcriptional co-factor TAZ, regulated by the WNT and Hippo pathways, in the homeostasis of NSPCs. We found that, in the murine neurogenic niches of the striatal subventricular zone and the dentate gyrus granular zone, TAZ is highly expressed in NSPCs and declines with ageing. Moreover, TAZ expression is lost in immature neurons of both neurogenic regions. To characterize mechanistically the role of TAZ in neuronal differentiation, we used the midbrain-derived NSPC line ReNcell VM to replicate in a non-animal model the factors influencing NSPC differentiation to the neuronal lineage. TAZ knock-down and forced expression in NSPCs led to increased and reduced neuronal differentiation, respectively. TEADs-knockdown indicated that these TAZ co-partners are required for the suppression of NSPCs commitment to neuronal differentiation. Genetic manipulation of the TAZ/TEAD system showed its participation in transcriptional repression of SOX2 and the proneuronal genes ASCL1, NEUROG2, and NEUROD1, leading to impediment of neurogenesis. TAZ is usually considered a transcriptional co-activator promoting stem cell proliferation, but our study indicates an additional function as a repressor of neuronal differentiation.
ProNGF/p75NTR Axis Drives Fiber Type Specification by Inducing the Fast-Glycolytic Phenotype in Mouse Skeletal Muscle Cells
Authors: Pallottini Valentina , Colardo Mayra , Tonini Claudia , Martella Noemi , Strimpakos Georgios , Colella Barbara , Tirassa Paola , Bartolomeo Sabrina Di , Segatto Marco
Published: October 2020

Despite its undisputable role in the homeostatic regulation of the nervous system, the nerve growth factor (NGF) also governs the relevant cellular processes in other tissues and organs. In this study, we aimed at assessing the expression and the putative involvement of NGF signaling in skeletal muscle physiology. To reach this objective, we employed satellite cell-derived myoblasts as an in vitro culture model. In vivo experiments were performed on Tibialis anterior from wild-type mice and an mdx mouse model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Targets of interest were mainly assessed by means of morphological, Western blot and qRT-PCR analysis. The results show that proNGF is involved in myogenic differentiation. Importantly, the proNGF/p75NTR pathway orchestrates a slow-to-fast fiber type transition by counteracting the expression of slow myosin heavy chain and that of oxidative markers. Concurrently, proNGF/p75NTR activation facilitates the induction of fast myosin heavy chain and of fast/glycolytic markers. Furthermore, we also provided evidence that the oxidative metabolism is impaired in mdx mice, and that these alterations are paralleled by a prominent buildup of proNGF and p75NTR. These findings underline that the proNGF/p75NTR pathway may play a crucial role in fiber type determination and suggest its prospective modulation as an innovative therapeutic approach to counteract muscle disorders.
Self-Assembly of Microscopic Rods Due to Depletion Interaction
Authors: Calero Carles , Pagonabarraga Ignacio
Published: October 2020

In this article, using numerical simulations we investigate the self-assembly of rod-like particles in suspension due to depletion forces which naturally emerge due to the presence of smaller spherical depletant particles. We characterize the type of clusters that are formed and the evolution of aggregation departing from a random initial configuration. We show that eventually the system reaches a thermodynamic equilibrium state in which the aggregates break and reform dynamically. We investigate the equilibrium state of aggregation, which exhibits a strong dependence on depletant concentration. In addition, we provide a simple thermodynamic model inspired on the theory of self-assembly of amphiphilic molecules which allows us to understand qualitatively the equilibrium aggregate size distributions that we obtain in simulation.
Investigation on the Performance Characteristics of 2-Stroke Heavy Fuel Light Aeroengine (2SHFLA) with Different Fuel Injection Systems: Modeling and Comparative Simulation
Authors: Qiao Yuan , Lin Li , Zhong Wei , Huang Kaisheng
Published: October 2020

Extensive application of small and medium-sized unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have already made the development of corresponding power system a research hotspot nowadays. Two-stroke heavy fuel light aeroengine (2SHFLA) is selected as the research focus in this paper. The working principle of 2SHFLA with different fuel injection systems is elaborated systematically. By dividing the initial prototype engine into several subsystems, the simulation platform is set up with its key model parameters accurately calibrated against the test data. Simulation platforms of the other two types of engines are subsequently constructed based on the pre-calibrated simulation platform of the initial prototype engine. Afterwards, comparative simulation is performed and the corresponding simulation results include: (1) comparison of performance characteristics of the initial prototype engine fueled with regular gasoline/heavy fuel; (2) comprehensive comparison of the performance characteristics of all the three types of engine.
Influence of Blasting Vibration of MLEMC Shaft Foundation Pit on Adjacent High-Rise Frame Structure: A Case Study
Authors: Jiang Nan , Zhang Yuqi , Zhou Chuanbo , Wu Tingyao , Zhu Bin
Published: October 2020

The construction of metro line energy management center (MLEMC) is one of the important parts of metro line, which is the key organization to realize the energy consumption management of the metro operation. To protect the safety of adjacent high-rise buildings during the blasting of subway foundation pit engineering, it is crucial to study the response characteristics of building structures. This paper takes the MLEMC vertical pit blasting project of Wuhan Metro Line 8 as an example. The law of blasting vibration attenuation along the earth’s surface and the vibration velocity response characteristics of the building structure were analyzed by small explosive test. LSDYNA numerical model was established, and the reliability of the model and parameters was verified by experimental data. Combined with the relevant specifications, the maximum charge in single delay was calculated and analyzed. The numerical model of the maximum charge in single was established, and the prediction model of the vibration velocity related to the floors of high-rise buildings was further proposed. Combined with the failure principle of reinforced concrete structure, the safety of high-rise buildings under blasting vibration was analyzed and evaluated.
Multi-Objective Optimization of Gas Pipeline Networks
Authors: Osiadacz Andrzej J. , Isoli Niccolo
Published: October 2020

The main goal of this paper is to prove that bi-objective optimization of high-pressure gas networks ensures grater system efficiency than scalar optimization. The proposed algorithm searches for a trade-off between minimization of the running costs of compressors and maximization of gas networks capacity (security of gas supply to customers). The bi-criteria algorithm was developed using a gradient projection method to solve the nonlinear constrained optimization problem, and a hierarchical vector optimization method. To prove the correctness of the algorithm, three existing networks have been solved. A comparison between the scalar optimization and bi-criteria optimization results confirmed the advantages of the bi-criteria optimization approach.
Establishing Energy Efficiency—Drivers for Energy Efficiency in German Manufacturing Small- and Medium-Sized Enterprises
Authors: König Werner , Löbbe Sabine , Büttner Stefan , Schneider Christian
Published: October 2020

Despite strong political efforts in Europe, industrial small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) seem to neglect adopting practices for energy efficiency. By taking a cultural perspective, this study investigated what drives the establishment of energy efficiency and corresponding practices in SMEs. Based on 10 ethnographic case studies and a quantitative survey among 500 manufacturing SMEs, the results indicate the importance of everyday employee behavior in achieving energy savings. The studied enterprises value behavior-related measures as similarly important as technical measures. Raising awareness for energy issues within the organization, therefore, constitutes an essential leadership task that is oftentimes perceived as challenging and frustrating. It was concluded that the embedding of energy efficiency in corporate strategy, the use of a broad spectrum of different practices, and the empowerment and involvement of employees serve as major drivers in establishing energy efficiency within SMEs. Moreover, the findings reveal institutional influences on shaping the meanings of energy efficiency for the SMEs by raising attention for energy efficiency in the enterprises and making energy efficiency decisions more likely. The main contribution of the paper is to offer an alternative perspective on energy efficiency in SMEs beyond the mere adoption of energy-efficient technology.
Sizing and Control Algorithms of a Hybrid Energy Storage System Based on Fuel Cells
Authors: Adamczyk Arkadiusz
Published: October 2020

Growing consciousness of the threat posed by man-made climate change has spurred government institutions, industry, and science to find clean fuels to power economic activity. Fuel cells powered by hydrogen are one of the steps in gaining clean energy. To improve the efficiency of the fuel cell, the hybrid solutions are required. This article shows a new approach to the design and control of a hybrid energy storage system for portable applications. The methodology allows us to optimize the desired physical parameters of the elements (weight or size) in order to withstand the connected load power demand. Such an approach allows us to minimize weight, which is essential in portable systems. The methodology was proven by building a technology demonstrator. The measurements of physical objects verified the electrical parameters received during simulation and allowed a lower weight of the system, compared to the system based only on Li-ion batteries.
Identification of Phase Fraction–Temperature Curves from Heat Capacity Data for Numerical Modeling of Heat Transfer in Commercial Paraffin Waxes
Authors: Barz Tilman , Krämer Johannes , Emhofer Johann
Published: October 2020

The area-proportional baseline method generates phase fraction–temperature curves from heat capacity data of phase change materials. The curves describe the continuous conversion from solid to liquid over an extended temperature range. They are consistent with the apparent heat capacity and enthalpy modeling approach for the numerical solution of heat transfer problems. However, the curves are non-smooth, discrete signals. They are affected by noise in the heat capacity data and should not be used as input to continuous simulation models. This contribution proposes an alternative method based on spline approximation for the generation of consistent and smooth phase fraction–temperature, apparent heat capacity–temperature and enthalpy–temperature curves. Applications are presented for two commercial paraffins from Rubitherm GmbH considering heat capacity data from Differential Scanning Calorimetry and 3-layer-calorimetry. Apparent heat capacity models are validated for melting experiments using a compact heat exchanger. The best fitting models and the most efficient numerical solutions are obtained for heat capacity data from 3-layer-calorimetry using the proposed spline approximation method. Because of these promising results, the method is applied to melting data of all 44 Rubitherm paraffins. The computer code of the corresponding phase transition models is provided in the Supplementary Information.
CFD and PIV Investigation of a Liquid Flow Maldistribution across a Tube Bundle in the Shell-and-Tube Heat Exchanger with Segmental Baffles
Authors: Ligus Grzegorz , Wasilewski Marek , Kołodziej Szymon , Zając Daniel
Published: October 2020

The paper presents the results of research on liquid flow maldistribution in the shell side of a shell-and-tube heat exchanger (STHE). This phenomenon constitutes the reason for the formation of the velocity reduction area and adversely affects heat transfer and pressure drop. In order to provide details of the liquid distribution in STHE, two visualization methods were utilized. First, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) code coupled with the k-ε model and the laser-based particle image velocimetry (PIV) technique was applied. The tests were carried out for a bundle comprising 37 tubes in an in-line layout with a pitch dz/t = 1.5, placed in a shell with Din = 0.1 m. The STHE liquid feed rates corresponded to Reynolds numbers Rein equal to 16,662, 24,993, and 33,324. The analysis demonstrated that the flow maldistribution in the investigated geometry originates the result of three main streams in the cross-section of the shell side: central stream, oblique stream, and bypass stream. For central and oblique streams, the largest velocity reduction areas were formed in the wake of the tubes. On the basis of the flow visualization, it was also shown that the in-line layout of the tube bundle helps to boost the wake region between successive tubes in a row. Additionally, unfavorable vortex phenomena between the last row of tubes and the lower part of the exchanger shell were identified in the investigations. The conducted studies confirmed the feasibility of both methods in the identification and assessment of fluid flow irregularities in STHE. The maximum error of the CFD method in comparison to the experimental methods did not exceed 7% in terms of the pressure drops and 11% in the range of the maximum velocities.
Terrestrial Protected Areas and Food Security: A Systematic Review of Research Approaches
Authors: Jouzi Zeynab , Leung Yu-Fai , Nelson Stacy
Published: October 2020

Achieving food security is one of the most important sustainable development goals and is a major global concern, specifically in remote and rural areas of the developing world where high biodiversity can be found and many protected areas are located. The goals of food security and biodiversity conservation are two of the most critical challenges of our time. This study aims to better understand the state of research on protected areas and food security through a methodological lens. The literature search was conducted in the Web of Science core collection and the Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International (CAB) abstracts database. The search results indicate that this is an understudied topic with only nineteen articles published in various research domains. The findings reveal that studies were explanatory research rather than confirmatory and most studies had a snapshot design with no control or baseline. National parks were the main category of protected areas reported in studies. Data collection commonly employed a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods at a household level. We also found that spatial data and methods are important yet underutilized.