bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LPS Tolerance Inhibits Cellular Respiration and Induces Global Changes in the Macrophage Secretome
Authors: Gillen Joseph , Ondee Thunnicha , Gurusamy Devikala , Issara-Amphorn Jiraphorn , Manes Nathan P. , Yoon Sung Hwan , Leelahavanichkul Asada , Nita-Lazar Aleksandra
Published: January 2021

Inflammatory response plays an essential role in the resolution of infections. However, inflammation can be detrimental to an organism and cause irreparable damage. For example, during sepsis, a cytokine storm can lead to multiple organ failures and often results in death. One of the strongest triggers of the inflammatory response is bacterial lipopolysaccharides (LPS), acting mostly through Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4). Paradoxically, while exposure to LPS triggers a robust inflammatory response, repeated or prolonged exposure to LPS can induce a state of endotoxin tolerance, a phenomenon where macrophages and monocytes do not respond to new endotoxin challenges, and it is often associated with secondary infections and negative outcomes. The cellular mechanisms regulating this phenomenon remain elusive. We used metabolic measurements to confirm differences in the cellular metabolism of naïve macrophages and that of macrophages responding to LPS stimulation or those in the LPS-tolerant state. In parallel, we performed an unbiased secretome survey using quantitative mass spectrometry during the induction of LPS tolerance, creating the first comprehensive secretome profile of endotoxin-tolerant cells. The secretome changes confirmed that LPS-tolerant macrophages have significantly decreased cellular metabolism and that the proteins secreted by LPS-tolerant macrophages have a strong association with cell survival, protein metabolism, and the metabolism of reactive oxygen species.
Protective Effect of γ-mangostin Isolated from the Peel of Garcinia mangostana against Glutamate-Induced Cytotoxicity in HT22 Hippocampal Neuronal Cells
Authors: Baek Ji Yun , Jung Kiwon , Kim Young-Mi , Kim Hyun-Young , Kang Ki Sung , Chin Young-Won
Published: January 2021

The aim of the present study was to examine the protective effect of γ-mangostin, a component of the mangosteen shell, against oxidative damage to nerve cells induced by excessive glutamate, a known excitatory neurotransmitter. To investigate the effect of γ-mangostin on apoptosis, 5 mM of glutamate was used to induce apoptotic cell death in mouse hippocampal HT22 cells. In this study, γ-mangostin was found to exert a stronger protection than N-acetyl cysteine against glutamate-induced cell damage. γ-Mangostin showed prevented glutamate-induced apoptosis in HT22 cells by reducing the production of reactive oxygen species and stimulating the expression of heme oxygenase-1 protein. In addition, glutamate significantly induced the accumulation of intracellular calcium ions, whereas treatment with γ-mangostin markedly reduced it. Hoechst 33342 staining showed an improvement in glutamate-induced nuclear condensation following γ-mangostin treatment. Furthermore, the number of annexin V-positive cells was significantly reduced following treatment with γ-mangostin. Western blot analysis showed the inhibition of glutamate-induced mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphorylation by γ-mangostin. γ-mangostin also inhibited the regulation of the intrinsic mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. Thus, the results of this study suggest that γ-mangostin is an active ingredient of mangosteen and exerts neuroprotective activities in HT22 cells.
Neuroprotective Benefits of Exercise and MitoQ on Memory Function, Mitochondrial Dynamics, Oxidative Stress, and Neuroinflammation in D-Galactose-Induced Aging Rats
Authors: Jeong Jae-Hoon , Koo Jung-Hoon , Yook Jang Soo , Cho Joon-Yong , Kang Eun-Bum
Published: January 2021

Exercise and antioxidants have health benefits that improve cognitive impairment and may act synergistically. In this study, we examined the effects of treadmill exercise (TE) and mitochondria-targeted antioxidant mitoquinone (MitoQ), individually or combined, on learning and memory, mitochondrial dynamics, NADPH oxidase activity, and neuroinflammation and antioxidant activity in the hippocampus of D-galactose-induced aging rats. TE alone and TE combined with MitoQ in aging rats reduced mitochondrial fission factors (Drp1, Fis1) and increased mitochondrial fusion factors (Mfn1, Mfn2, Opa1). These groups also exhibited improved NADPH oxidase activity and antioxidant activity (SOD-2, catalase). TE or MitoQ alone decreased neuroinflammatory response (COX-2, TNF-α), but the suppression was greater with their combination. In addition, aging-increased neuroinflammation in the dentate gyrus was decreased in TE but not MitoQ treatment. Learning and memory tests showed that, contrarily, MitoQ alone demonstrated some similar effects to TE but not a definitive improvement. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that MitoQ exerted some positive effects on aging when used as an isolated treatment, but TE had a more effective role on cognitive impairment, oxidative stress, inflammation, and mitochondria dysfunction. Our findings suggest that the combination of TE and MitoQ exerted no synergistic effects and indicated regular exercise should be the first priority in neuroprotection of age-related cognitive decline.
Thalamocortical Connectivity in Experimentally-Induced Migraine Attacks: A Pilot Study
Authors: Martinelli Daniele , Castellazzi Gloria , De Icco Roberto , Bacila Ana , Allena Marta , Faggioli Arianna , Sances Grazia , Pichiecchio Anna , Borsook David , Gandini Wheeler-Kingshott Claudia A. M. , Tassorelli Cristina
Published: January 2021

In this study we used nitroglycerin (NTG)-induced migraine attacks as a translational human disease model. Static and dynamic functional connectivity (FC) analyses were applied to study the associated functional brain changes. A spontaneous migraine-like attack was induced in five episodic migraine (EM) patients using a NTG challenge. Four task-free functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scans were acquired over the study: baseline, prodromal, full-blown, and recovery. Seed-based correlation analysis (SCA) was applied to fMRI data to assess static FC changes between the thalamus and the rest of the brain. Wavelet coherence analysis (WCA) was applied to test time-varying phase-coherence changes between the thalamus and salience networks (SNs). SCA results showed significantly FC changes between the right thalamus and areas involved in the pain circuits (insula, pons, cerebellum) during the prodromal phase, reaching its maximal alteration during the full-blown phase. WCA showed instead a loss of synchronisation between thalami and SN, mainly occurring during the prodrome and full-blown phases. These findings further support the idea that a temporal change in thalamic function occurs over the experimentally induced phases of NTG-induced headache in migraine patients. Correlation of FC changes with true clinical phases in spontaneous migraine would validate the utility of this model.
The Interactions of DNA Repair, Telomere Homeostasis, and p53 Mutational Status in Solid Cancers: Risk, Prognosis, and Prediction
Authors: Vodicka Pavel , Andera Ladislav , Opattova Alena , Vodickova Ludmila
Published: January 2021

The disruption of genomic integrity due to the accumulation of various kinds of DNA damage, deficient DNA repair capacity, and telomere shortening constitute the hallmarks of malignant diseases. DNA damage response (DDR) is a signaling network to process DNA damage with importance for both cancer development and chemotherapy outcome. DDR represents the complex events that detect DNA lesions and activate signaling networks (cell cycle checkpoint induction, DNA repair, and induction of cell death). TP53, the guardian of the genome, governs the cell response, resulting in cell cycle arrest, DNA damage repair, apoptosis, and senescence. The mutational status of TP53 has an impact on DDR, and somatic mutations in this gene represent one of the critical events in human carcinogenesis. Telomere dysfunction in cells that lack p53-mediated surveillance of genomic integrity along with the involvement of DNA repair in telomeric DNA regions leads to genomic instability. While the role of individual players (DDR, telomere homeostasis, and TP53) in human cancers has attracted attention for some time, there is insufficient understanding of the interactions between these pathways. Since solid cancer is a complex and multifactorial disease with considerable inter- and intra-tumor heterogeneity, we mainly dedicated this review to the interactions of DNA repair, telomere homeostasis, and TP53 mutational status, in relation to (a) cancer risk, (b) cancer progression, and (c) cancer therapy.
Asian Population Is More Prone to Develop High-Risk Myelodysplastic Syndrome, Concordantly with Their Propensity to Exhibit High-Risk Cytogenetic Aberrations
Authors: Jiang Yan , Eveillard Jean-Richard , Couturier Marie-Anne , Soubise Benoit , Chen Jian-Min , Gao Sujun , Basinko Audrey , Morel Frédéric , Douet-Guilbert Nathalie , Troadec Marie-Bérengère
Published: January 2021

This study explores the hypothesis that genetic differences related to an ethnic factor may underlie differences in phenotypic expression of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). First, to identify clear ethnic differences, we systematically compared the epidemiology, and the clinical, biological and genetic characteristics of MDS between Asian and Western countries over the last 20 years. Asian MDS cases show a 2- to 4-fold lower incidence and a 10-year younger age of onset compared to the Western cases. A higher proportion of Western MDS patients fall into the very low- and low-risk categories while the intermediate, high and very high-risk groups are more represented in Asian MDS patients according to the Revised International Prognostic Scoring System. Next, we investigated whether differences in prognostic risk scores could find their origin in differential cytogenetic profiles. We found that 5q deletion (del(5q)) aberrations and mutations in TET2, SF3B1, SRSF2 and IDH1/2 are more frequently reported in Western MDS patients while trisomy 8, del(20q), U2AF1 and ETV6 mutations are more frequent in Asian MDS patients. Treatment approaches differ between Western and Asian countries owing to the above discrepancies, but the overall survival rate within each prognostic group is similar for Western and Asian MDS patients. Altogether, our study highlights greater risk MDS in Asians supported by their cytogenetic profile.
Cancer Response to Therapy-Induced Senescence: A Matter of Dose and Timing
Authors: Mongiardi Maria Patrizia , Pellegrini Manuela , Pallini Roberto , Levi Andrea , Falchetti Maria Laura
Published: January 2021

Cellular senescence participates to fundamental processes like tissue remodeling in embryo development, wound healing and inhibition of preneoplastic cell growth. Most senescent cells display common hallmarks, among which the most characteristic is a permanent (or long lasting) arrest of cell division. However, upon senescence, different cell types acquire distinct phenotypes, which also depend on the specific inducing stimuli. Senescent cells are metabolically active and secrete a collection of growth factors, cytokines, proteases, and matrix-remodeling proteins collectively defined as senescence-associated secretory phenotype, SASP. Through SASP, senescent cells modify their microenvironment and engage in a dynamic dialog with neighbor cells. Senescence of neoplastic cells, at least temporarily, reduces tumor expansion, but SASP of senescent cancer cells as well as SASP of senescent stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment may promote the growth of more aggressive cancer subclones. Here, we will review recent data on the mechanisms and the consequences of cancer-therapy induced senescence, enlightening the potentiality and the risk of senescence inducing treatments.
Preoperative CTC-Detection by CellSearch® Is Associated with Early Distant Metastasis and Impaired Survival in Resected Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Hugenschmidt Harald , Labori Knut Jørgen , Borgen Elin , Brunborg Cathrine , Schirmer Cecilie Bendigtsen , Seeberg Lars Thomas , Naume Bjørn , Wiedswang Gro
Published: January 2021

In patients with presumed pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), biomarkers that may open for personalised, risk-adapted treatment are lacking. The study analysed the impact of CTCs-presence on the patterns of recurrence and survival in 98 patients resected for PDAC with 5–10 years of follow-up. Preoperative samples were analysed by the CellSearch® system for EpCAM+/DAPI+/CK+/CD45-CTCs. CTCs were detected in 7 of the 98 patients. CTCs predicted a significantly shorter median disease-free survival (DFS) of 3.3 vs. 9.2 months and a median cancer specific survival (CSS)of 6.3 vs. 18.5 months. Relapse status was confirmed by imaging for 87 patients. Of these, 58 patients developed distant metastases (DM) and 29 developed isolated local recurrence (ILR) as the first sign of cancer relapse. All patients with CTCs experienced DM. pN-status and histological grade >2 were other independent risk factors for DM, but only CTCs predicted significantly shorter cancer-specific, disease-free and post-recurrence survival. Preoperative parameters did not affect clinical outcome. We conclude that CTC presence in resected PDAC patients predicted early distant metastasis and impaired survival. Preoperative CTCs alone or in combination with histopathological factors may guide initial treatment decisions in patients with resectable PDAC in the future.
Restoring the DREAM Complex Inhibits the Proliferation of High-Risk HPV Positive Human Cells
Authors: James Claire D. , Saini Siddharth , Sesay Fatmata , Ko Kevin , Felthousen-Rusbasan Jessica , Iness Audra N. , Nulton Tara , Windle Brad , Dozmorov Mikhail G. , Morgan Iain M. , Litovchick Larisa
Published: January 2021

High-risk (HR) human papillomaviruses are known causative agents in 5% of human cancers including cervical, ano-genital and head and neck carcinomas. In part, HR-HPV causes cancer by targeting host-cell tumor suppressors including retinoblastoma protein (pRb) and RB-like proteins p107 and p130. HR-HPV E7 uses a LxCxE motif to bind RB proteins, impairing their ability to control cell-cycle dependent transcription. E7 disrupts DREAM (Dimerization partner, RB-like, E2F and MuvB), a transcriptional repressor complex that can include p130 or p107, but not pRb, which regulates genes required for cell cycle progression. However, it is not known whether disruption of DREAM plays a significant role in HPV-driven tumorigenesis. In the DREAM complex, LIN52 is an adaptor that binds directly to p130 via an E7-like LxSxE motif. Replacement of the LxSxE sequence in LIN52 with LxCxE (LIN52-S20C) increases p130 binding and partially restores DREAM assembly in HPV-positive keratinocytes and human cervical cancer cells, inhibiting proliferation. Our findings demonstrate that disruption of the DREAM complex by E7 is an important process promoting cellular proliferation by HR-HPV. Restoration of the DREAM complex in HR-HPV positive cells may therefore have therapeutic benefits in HR-HPV positive cancers.
Mutational Signatures Driven by Epigenetic Determinants Enable the Stratification of Patients with Gastric Cancer for Therapeutic Intervention
Authors: Buttura Jaqueline Ramalho , Provisor Santos Monize Nakamoto , Valieris Renan , Drummond Rodrigo Duarte , Defelicibus Alexandre , Lima João Paulo , Calsavara Vinicius Fernando , Freitas Helano Carioca , Cordeiro de Lima Vladmir C. , Fernanda Bartelli Thais , Wiedner Marc , Rosales Rafael , Gollob Kenneth John , Loizou Joanna , Dias-Neto Emmanuel , Nunes Diana Noronha , da Silva Israel Tojal
Published: January 2021

DNA mismatch repair deficiency (dMMR) is associated with the microsatellite instability (MSI) phenotype and leads to increased mutation load, which in turn may impact anti-tumor immune responses and treatment effectiveness. Various mutational signatures directly linked to dMMR have been described for primary cancers. To investigate which mutational signatures are associated with prognosis in gastric cancer, we performed a de novo extraction of mutational signatures in a cohort of 787 patients. We detected three dMMR-related signatures, one of which clearly discriminates tumors with MLH1 gene silencing caused by promoter hypermethylation (area under the curve = 98%). We then demonstrated that samples with the highest exposure of this signature share features related to better prognosis, encompassing clinical and molecular aspects and altered immune infiltrate composition. Overall, the assessment of the prognostic value and of the impact of modifications in MMR-related genes on shaping specific dMMR mutational signatures provides evidence that classification based on mutational signature exposure enables prognosis stratification.
Development and Characterization of Composite Carbon Adsorbents with Photocatalytic Regeneration Ability: Application to Diclofenac Removal from Water
Authors: Kimbi Yaah Velma Beri , Ojala Satu , Khallok Hamza , Laitinen Tiina , Selent Marcin , Zhao He , Sliz Rafal , de Oliveira Sergio Botelho
Published: January 2021

This paper presents results related to the development of a carbon composite intended for water purification. The aim was to develop an adsorbent that could be regenerated using light leading to complete degradation of pollutants and avoiding the secondary pollution caused by regeneration. The composites were prepared by hydrothermal carbonization of palm kernel shells, TiO2, and W followed by activation at 400 °C under N2 flow. To evaluate the regeneration using light, photocatalytic experiments were carried out under UV-A, UV-B, and visible lights. The materials were thoroughly characterized, and their performance was evaluated for diclofenac removal. A maximum of 74% removal was observed with the composite containing TiO2, carbon, and W (HCP25W) under UV-B irradiation and non-adjusted pH (~5). Almost similar results were observed for the material that did not contain tungsten. The best results using visible light were achieved with HCP25W providing 24% removal of diclofenac, demonstrating the effect of W in the composite. Both the composites had significant amounts of oxygen-containing functional groups. The specific surface area of HCP25W was about 3 m2g−1, while for HCP25, it was 160 m2g−1. Increasing the specific surface area using a higher activation temperature (600 °C) adversely affected diclofenac removal due to the loss of the surface functional groups. Regeneration of the composite under UV-B light led to a complete recovery of the adsorption capacity. These results show that TiO2- and W-containing carbon composites are interesting materials for water treatment and they could be regenerated using photocatalysis.
Appendage Regeneration in Vertebrates: What Makes This Possible?
Authors: Daponte Valentina , Tylzanowski Przemko , Forlino Antonella
Published: January 2021

The ability to regenerate amputated or injured tissues and organs is a fascinating property shared by several invertebrates and, interestingly, some vertebrates. The mechanism of evolutionary loss of regeneration in mammals is not understood, yet from the biomedical and clinical point of view, it would be very beneficial to be able, at least partially, to restore that capability. The current availability of new experimental tools, facilitating the comparative study of models with high regenerative ability, provides a powerful instrument to unveil what is needed for a successful regeneration. The present review provides an updated overview of multiple aspects of appendage regeneration in three vertebrates: lizard, salamander, and zebrafish. The deep investigation of this process points to common mechanisms, including the relevance of Wnt/β-catenin and FGF signaling for the restoration of a functional appendage. We discuss the formation and cellular origin of the blastema and the identification of epigenetic and cellular changes and molecular pathways shared by vertebrates capable of regeneration. Understanding the similarities, being aware of the differences of the processes, during lizard, salamander, and zebrafish regeneration can provide a useful guide for supporting effective regenerative strategies in mammals.
A Review of Agent-Based Programming for Multi-Agent Systems
Authors: Cardoso Rafael C. , Ferrando Angelo
Published: January 2021

Intelligent and autonomous agents is a subarea of symbolic artificial intelligence where these agents decide, either reactively or proactively, upon a course of action by reasoning about the information that is available about the world (including the environment, the agent itself, and other agents). It encompasses a multitude of techniques, such as negotiation protocols, agent simulation, multi-agent argumentation, multi-agent planning, and many others. In this paper, we focus on agent programming and we provide a systematic review of the literature in agent-based programming for multi-agent systems. In particular, we discuss both veteran (still maintained) and novel agent programming languages, their extensions, work on comparing some of these languages, and applications found in the literature that make use of agent programming.
Hot Electron Plasmon-Resonant Grating Structures for Enhanced Photochemistry: A Theoretical Study
Authors: Aravind Indu , Wang Yu , Cai Zhi , Shen Lang , Zhao Bofan , Yang Sisi , Wang Yi , Dawlaty Jahan M. , Gibson George N. , Guignon Ernest , Cady Nathaniel C. , Page William D. , Pilar Arturo , Cronin Stephen B.
Published: January 2021

Metallic grating structures have been shown to provide an effective platform for generating hot electrons and driving electrochemical reactions. Here, we present a systematic theoretical study of the surface plasmon resonance in different corrugated metallic grating structures using computational electromagnetic tools (i.e., the finite difference time domain (FDTD) method). We identify the corrugation parameters that produce maximum resonant field enhancement at commonly used wavelengths for photocatalytic applications (633 nm and 785 nm) in different material systems, including Ag, Au, Cu, Al, and Pt. The absorption spectra of each grating structure have been fitted with the analytical equation obtained from Coupled Mode Theory. We then extracted the absorptive and radiative loss rates. The field enhancement can be maximized by matching the absorption and radiation losses via tuning the geometric parameters. We could improve the average field enhancement of 633 nm and 785 nm modes by a factor of 1.8× and 3.8× for Ag, 1.4× and 3.6× for Au, and 1.2× and 2.6× for Cu. The optimum structures are found to be shallower for Ag, Au, and Cu; deeper for Pt; and to almost remain the same for Al. The gratings become flat for all the metals for increasing the average field enhancement. Overall, Ag and Au were found to be the best in terms of overall field enhancement while Pt had the worst performance.
Electrical Breakdown Mechanism of Transformer Oil with Water Impurity: Molecular Dynamics Simulations and First-Principles Calculations
Authors: Cao Bin , Dong Ji-Wei , Chi Ming-He
Published: January 2021

Water impurity is the essential factor of reducing the insulation performance of transformer oil, which directly determines the operating safety and life of a transformer. Molecular dynamics simulations and first-principles electronic-structure calculations are employed to study the diffusion behavior of water molecules and the electrical breakdown mechanism of transformer oil containing water impurities. The molecular dynamics of an oil-water micro-system model demonstrates that the increase of aging acid concentration will exponentially expedite thermal diffusion of water molecules. Density of states (DOS) for a local region model of transformer oil containing water molecules indicates that water molecules can introduce unoccupied localized electron-states with energy levels close to the conduction band minimum of transformer oil, which makes water molecules capable of capturing electrons and transforming them into water ions during thermal diffusion. Subsequently, under a high electric field, water ions collide and impact on oil molecules to break the molecular chain of transformer oil, engendering carbonized components that introduce a conduction electronic-band in the band-gap of oil molecules as a manifestation of forming a conductive region in transformer oil. The conduction channel composed of carbonized components will be eventually formed, connecting two electrodes, with the carbonized components developing rapidly under the impact of water ions, based on which a large number of electron carriers will be produced similar to “avalanche” discharge, leading to an electrical breakdown of transformer oil insulation. The water impurity in oil, as the key factor for forming the carbonized conducting channel, initiates the electric breakdown process of transformer oil, which is dominated by thermal diffusion of water molecules. The increase of aging acid concentration will significantly promote the thermal diffusion of water impurities and the formation of an initial conducting channel, accounting for the degradation in dielectric strength of insulating oil containing water impurities after long-term operation of the transformer.
Simultaneous Determination of Antibodies to Pertussis Toxin and Adenylate Cyclase Toxin Improves Serological Diagnosis of Pertussis
Authors: Knuutila Aapo , Barkoff Alex-Mikael , Mertsola Jussi , Osicka Radim , Sebo Peter , He Qiushui
Published: January 2021

Serological diagnosis of pertussis is mainly based on anti-pertussis toxin (PT) IgG antibodies. Since PT is included in all acellular vaccines (ACV), serological assays do not differentiate antibodies induced by ACVs and infection. Adenylate cyclase toxin (ACT) is not included in the ACVs, which makes it a promising candidate for pertussis serology with the specific aim of separating infection- and ACV-induced antibodies. A multiplex lateral flow test with PT and ACT antigens was developed to measure serum antibodies from pertussis-seropositive patients (n = 46), healthy controls (n = 102), and subjects who received a booster dose of ACV containing PT, filamentous hemagglutinin, and pertactin (n = 67) with paired sera collected before and one month after the vaccination. If the diagnosis was solely based on anti-PT antibodies, 98.5–44.8% specificity (before and after vaccination, respectively) and 78.2% sensitivity were achieved, whereas if ACT was used in combination with PT, the sensitivity of the assay increased to 91.3% without compromising specificity. No increase in the level of anti-ACT antibodies was found after vaccination. This exploratory study indicates that the use of ACT for serology would be beneficial in combination with a lower quantitative cutoff for anti-PT antibodies, and particularly in children and adolescents who frequently receive booster vaccinations.
An Information Theory Approach to Aesthetic Assessment of Visual Patterns
Authors: Khalili Abdullah , Bouchachia Hamid
Published: January 2021

The question of beauty has inspired philosophers and scientists for centuries. Today, the study of aesthetics is an active research topic in fields as diverse as computer science, neuroscience, and psychology. Measuring the aesthetic appeal of images is beneficial for many applications. In this paper, we will study the aesthetic assessment of simple visual patterns. The proposed approach suggests that aesthetically appealing patterns are more likely to deliver a higher amount of information over multiple levels in comparison with less aesthetically appealing patterns when the same amount of energy is used. The proposed approach is evaluated using two datasets; the results show that the proposed approach is more accurate in classifying aesthetically appealing patterns compared to some related approaches that use different complexity measures.
Tripartite Dynamic Zero-Sum Quantum Games
Authors: Cheng Hui-Min , Luo Ming-Xing
Published: January 2021

The Nash equilibrium plays a crucial role in game theory. Most of results are based on classical resources. Our goal in this paper is to explore multipartite zero-sum game with quantum settings. We find that in two different settings there is no strategy for a tripartite classical game being fair. Interestingly, this is resolved by providing dynamic zero-sum quantum games using single quantum state. Moreover, the gains of some players may be changed dynamically in terms of the committed state. Both quantum games are robust against the preparation noise and measurement errors.
An 8T SRAM Array with Configurable Word Lines for In-Memory Computing Operation
Authors: Zhang Jin , Lin Zhiting , Wu Xiulong , Peng Chunyu , Lu Wenjuan , Zhao Qiang , Chen Junning
Published: January 2021

In-memory computing (IMC) has been widely accepted to be an effective method to improve energy efficiency. To realize IMC, operands in static random-access memory (SRAM) are stored in columns, which contradicts SRAM write patterns and requires additional data movement. In this paper, an 8T SRAM array with configurable word lines is proposed, in where the operands are arranged in rows, following the traditional SRAM storage pattern, and therefore additional data movement is not required. The proposed structure supports three different computing modes. In the ternary multiplication mode, the reference voltage generation column is not required. The energy of computing is only 1.273 fJ/bit. In the unsigned multibit multiplication mode, discharge and charging paths are used to enlarge the voltage difference of the least significant bit. In the logic operation mode, different types of operations (e.g., IMP, OR, NOR, XNOR, and XOR) are achieved in a single cycle. The frequency of logic computing is up to 909 MHz.
A Novel Power Market Mechanism Based on Blockchain for Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
Authors: Huang Zhaoxiong , Li Zhenhao , Lai Chun Sing , Zhao Zhuoli , Wu Xiaomei , Li Xuecong , Tong Ning , Lai Loi Lei
Published: January 2021

This work presents a novel blockchain-based energy trading mechanism for electric vehicles consisting of day-ahead and real-time markets. In the day-ahead market, electric vehicle users submit their bidding price to participate in the double auction mechanism. Subsequently, the smart match mechanism will be conducted by the charging system operator, to meet both personal interests and social benefits. After clearing the trading result, the charging system operator uploads the trading contract made in the day-ahead market to the blockchain. In the real-time market, the charging system operator checks the trading status and submits the updated trading results to the blockchain. This mechanism encourages participants in the double auction to pursue higher interests, in addition to rationally utilize the energy unmatched in the auction and to achieve the improvement of social welfare. Case studies are used to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed model. For buyers and sellers who successfully participate in the day-ahead market, the total profit increase for buyer and seller are 22.79% and 53.54%, respectively, as compared to without energy trading. With consideration of social welfare in the smart match mechanism, the peak load reduces from 182 to 146.5 kW, which is a 19.5% improvement.
A New Modeling Framework for Multi-Scale Simulation of Hydraulic Fracturing and Production from Unconventional Reservoirs
Authors: Birkholzer J. T. , Morris J. , Bargar J. R. , Brondolo F. , Cihan A. , Crandall D. , Deng H. , Fan W. , Fu W. , Fu P. , Hakala A. , Hao Y. , Huang J. , Jew A. D. , Kneafsey T. , Li Z. , Lopano C. , Moore J. , Moridis G. , Nakagawa S. , Noël V. , Reagan M. , Sherman C. S. , Settgast R. , Steefel C. , Voltolini M. , Xiong W. , Ciezobka J.
Published: January 2021

This paper describes a new modeling framework for microscopic to reservoir-scale simulations of hydraulic fracturing and production. The approach builds upon a fusion of two existing high-performance simulators for reservoir-scale behavior: the GEOS code for hydromechanical evolution during stimulation and the TOUGH+ code for multi-phase flow during production. The reservoir-scale simulations are informed by experimental and modeling studies at the laboratory scale to incorporate important micro-scale mechanical processes and chemical reactions occurring within the fractures, the shale matrix, and at the fracture-fluid interfaces. These processes include, among others, changes in stimulated fracture permeability as a result of proppant behavior rearrangement or embedment, or mineral scale precipitation within pores and microfractures, at µm to cm scales. In our new modeling framework, such micro-scale testing and modeling provides upscaled hydromechanical parameters for the reservoir scale models. We are currently testing the new modeling framework using field data and core samples from the Hydraulic Fracturing Field Test (HFTS), a recent field-based joint research experiment with intense monitoring of hydraulic fracturing and shale production in the Wolfcamp Formation in the Permian Basin (USA). Below, we present our approach coupling the reservoir simulators GEOS and TOUGH+ informed by upscaled parameters from micro-scale experiments and modeling. We provide a brief overview of the HFTS and the available field data, and then discuss the ongoing application of our new workflow to the HFTS data set.
Interval Load Flow for Uncertainty Consideration in Power Systems Analysis
Authors: Nogueira Wallisson C. , Garcés Negrete Lina Paola , López-Lezama Jesús M.
Published: January 2021

Modern power systems must deal with a greater degree of uncertainty in power flow calculation due to variations in load and generation introduced by new technologies. This scenario poses new challenges to power system operators which require new tools for an accurate assessment of the system state. This paper presents an interval load flow (ILF) approach for dealing with uncertainty in power system analysis. A probabilistic load flow (PLF), based on Monte Carlo Simulation (MCS), was also implemented for comparative purposes. The ILF and PLF are used to estimate the network states. Both methods were implemented in Python® using the IEEE 34-bus, IEEE 69-bus and 192-bus Brazilian distribution system. The results with the proposed ILF on the aforementioned benchmark test systems proved to be compatible with that of the MCS, evidencing the robustness and applicability of the proposed approach.
Detailed Analysis of Thermal Comfort and Indoor Air Quality Using Real-Time Multiple Environmental Monitoring Data for a Childcare Center
Authors: Oh Sukjoon , Song Suwon
Published: January 2021

Thermal comfort, indoor air quality (IAQ), and energy use are closely related, even though these have different aspects with respect to building performance. We analyzed thermal comfort and IAQ using real-time multiple environmental data, which include indoor air temperature, relative humidity, carbon dioxide (CO2), and particulate matter (e.g., PM10 and PM2.5), as well as electricity use from an energy recovery ventilation (ERV) system for a childcare center. Thermal comfort frequency and time-series analyses were conducted in detail to thoroughly observe real-time thermal comfort and IAQ conditions with and without ERV operation, and to identify energy savings opportunities during occupied and unoccupied hours. The results show that the highest CO2 and PM10 concentrations were reduced by 51.4% and 29.5%, respectively, during the occupied hours when the ERV system was operating. However, it was also identified that comfort frequencies occurred during unoccupied hours and discomfort frequencies during occupied hours. By analyzing and communicating the three different types of real-time monitoring data, it is concluded that the ERV system should be controlled by considering not only IAQ (e.g., CO2 and PM2.5) but also thermal comfort and energy use to enhance indoor environmental quality and save energy based on real-time multiple monitoring data.
Economic Analysis of Special Rate for Renewable Energy Based on the Design of an Optimized Model for Distributed Energy Resource Capacities in Buildings
Authors: Jung Jihun , Baek Keon , Lee Eunjung , Ko Woong , Kim Jinho
Published: January 2021

Various incentive schemes are being implemented to improve the economic return of distributed energy resources (DERs). Accordingly, research on the optimal capacity design and operations of photovoltaic (PV) power generation and energy storage systems (ESSs) is important to ensure the economic efficiency of DERs. This study presents the models of optimal capacity and facility operation methods based on long-term operational changes of DERs in a building with self-consumption. Key policy variables are derived for a renewable energy system. We first analyzed the operating environments of the DERs according to the basic types of PVs and ESSs, and by examining the detailed benefit structure of a special rate for renewable energy. The optimal capacity of PVs and ESSs with the lowest net cost was estimated using various parameters in consideration of long-term operations (~15 years), and by setting rules for a special rate for renewable energy. It was confirmed that the combined use of peak and rate reductions constituted the most economical operational approach. A case study confirmed the economic sensitivity of cost and benefit analyses based on actual load data. Correspondingly, it is inferred that this study will identify core policy variables that can aid decision-making in the long-term perspective.
Hybridization Assays in Strawberry Tree toward the Identification of Plants Displaying Increased Drought Tolerance
Authors: Martins João , Monteiro Pedro , Pinto Glória , Canhoto Jorge
Published: January 2021

Arbutus unedo L. is a small Ericaceae tree with a circum-Mediterranean distribution. It has a huge ecological impact on southern Europe forests and a great economic importance as a source of phytochemicals with bioactive properties and for fruit production. On the foreseen climate change context, breeding toward drought tolerance is necessary in order to ameliorate plant performance. Therefore, the aim of this work was to study the reproduction mechanisms of the strawberry tree, obtain new genetic combinations by hybridization, and select genotypes more tolerant to drought stress. A morphological analysis of flowers and pollen was carried out, and controlled pollinations were performed both in vitro and ex vitro. The very first approach on strawberry tree breeding by means of hybridization is also presented. Several physiological parameters were evaluated on 26 genotypes submitted to a water-deficit regime. Plant behavior under drought greatly varied among genotypes, which showed high phenotype plasticity. Three genotypes that were able to cope with water restriction without compromising net CO2 assimilation were identified as highly tolerant to drought stress. The results obtained elucidate the reproduction mechanisms of the strawberry tree and open the way for a long-term breeding program based on the selection of drought-tolerant plants.
How Dramatic Events Can Affect Emotionality in Social Posting: The Impact of COVID-19 on Reddit
Authors: Basile Valerio , Cauteruccio Francesco , Terracina Giorgio
Published: January 2021

The COVID-19 outbreak impacted almost all the aspects of ordinary life. In this context, social networks quickly started playing the role of a sounding board for the content produced by people. Studying how dramatic events affect the way people interact with each other and react to poorly known situations is recognized as a relevant research task. Since automatically identifying country-based COVID-19 social posts on generalized social networks, like Twitter and Facebook, is a difficult task, in this work we concentrate on Reddit megathreads, which provide a unique opportunity to study focused reactions of people by both topic and country. We analyze specific reactions and we compare them with a “normal” period, not affected by the pandemic; in particular, we consider structural variations in social posting behavior, emotional reactions under the Plutchik model of basic emotions, and emotional reactions under unconventional emotions, such as skepticism, particularly relevant in the COVID-19 context.
Technology Enhanced Learning Using Humanoid Robots
Authors: Reforgiato Recupero Diego
Published: January 2021

In this paper we present a mixture of technologies tailored for e-learning related to the Deep Learning, Sentiment Analysis, and Semantic Web domains, which we have employed to show four different use cases that we have validated in the field of Human-Robot Interaction. The approach has been designed using Zora, a humanoid robot that can be easily extended with new software behaviors. The goal is to make the robot able to engage users through natural language for different tasks. Using our software the robot can (i) talk to the user and understand their sentiments through a dedicated Semantic Sentiment Analysis engine; (ii) answer to open-dialog natural language utterances by means of a Generative Conversational Agent; (iii) perform action commands leveraging a defined Robot Action ontology and open-dialog natural language utterances; and (iv) detect which objects the user is handing by using convolutional neural networks trained on a huge collection of annotated objects. Each module can be extended with more data and information and the overall architectural design is general, flexible, and scalable and can be expanded with other components, thus enriching the interaction with the human. Different applications within the e-learning domains are foreseen: The robot can either be a trainer and autonomously perform physical actions (e.g., in rehabilitation centers) or it can interact with the users (performing simple tests or even identifying emotions) according to the program developed by the teachers.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of Fishes in 2020
Authors:   Fishes Editorial Office
Published: January 2021

Peer review is the driving force of journal development, and reviewers are gatekeepers who ensure that Fishes maintains its standards for the high quality of its published papers [...]
Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli—A Summary of the Literature
Authors: Mare Anca Delia , Ciurea Cristina Nicoleta , Man Adrian , Tudor Bianca , Moldovan Valeriu , Decean Luminița , Toma Felicia
Published: January 2021

Diarrheal disease is still a major public health concern, as it is still considered an important cause of death in children under five years of age. A few decades ago, the detection of enteropathogenic E. coli was made by detecting the O, H, and K antigens, mostly by agglutination. The recent protocols recommend the molecular methods for diagnosing EPEC, as they can distinguish between typical and atypical EPEC by identifying the presence/absence of specific virulence factors. EPEC are defined as diarrheagenic strains of E. coli that can produce attaching and effacing lesions on the intestinal epithelium while being incapable of producing Shiga toxins and heat-labile or heat-stable enterotoxins. The ability of these strains to produce attaching and effacing lesions enable them to cause localized lesions by attaching tightly to the surface of the intestinal epithelial cells, disrupting the surfaces of the cells, thus leading to the effacement of the microvilli. EPEC are classified on typical and atypical isolates, based on the presence or absence of E. coli adherence factor plasmids. All the EPEC strains are eae positive; typical EPEC strains are eae+, bfpA+, while atypical strains are eae+, bfpA−. No vaccines are currently available to prevent EPEC infections.
The Role of Csmd1 during Mammary Gland Development
Authors: Burgess Samuel J. , Gibbs Hannah , Toomes Carmel , Coletta Patricia L. , Bell Sandra M.
Published: January 2021

The Cub Sushi Multiple Domains-1 (CSMD1) protein is a tumour suppressor which has been shown to play a role in regulating human mammary duct development in vitro. CSMD1 knockdown in vitro demonstrated increased cell proliferation, invasion and motility. However, the role of Csmd1 in vivo is poorly characterised when it comes to ductal development and is therefore an area which warrants further exploration. In this study a Csmd1 knockout (KO) mouse model was used to identify the role of Csmd1 in regulating mammary gland development during puberty. Changes in duct development and protein expression patterns were analysed by immunohistochemistry. This study identified increased ductal development during the early stages of puberty in the KO mice, characterised by increased ductal area and terminal end bud number at 6 weeks. Furthermore, increased expression of various proteins (Stat1, Fak, Akt, Slug/Snail and Progesterone receptor) was shown at 4 weeks in the KO mice, followed by lower expression levels from 6 weeks in the KO mice compared to the wild type mice. This study identifies a novel role for Csmd1 in mammary gland development, with Csmd1 KO causing significantly more rapid mammary gland development, suggesting an earlier adult mammary gland formation.
A Novel Splice-Site Variant in CACNA1F Causes a Phenotype Synonymous with Åland Island Eye Disease and Incomplete Congenital Stationary Night Blindness
Authors: Mahmood Usman , Méjécase Cécile , Ali Syed M. A. , Moosajee Mariya , Kozak Igor
Published: January 2021

Background: CACNA1F-related disorders encompass progressive and non-progressive disorders, including Åland island eye disease and incomplete congenital stationary night blindness. These two X-linked disorders are characterized by nystagmus, color vision defect, myopia, and electroretinography (ERG) abnormalities. Ocular hypopigmentation and iris transillumination are reported only in patients with Åland island eye disease. Around 260 variants were reported to be associated with these two non-progressive disorders, with 19 specific to Åland island eye disease and 14 associated with both Åland island eye disease and incomplete congenital stationary night blindness. CACNA1F variants spread on the gene and further analysis are needed to reveal phenotype-genotype correlation. Case Report: A complete ocular exam and genetic testing were performed on a 13-year-old boy. A novel splice-site variant, c.4294-11C>G in intron 36 in CACNA1F, was identified at hemizygous state in the patient and at heterozygous state in his asymptomatic mother and explained the phenotype synonymous with Åland island eye disease and incomplete congenital stationary night blindness observed in the patient. Conclusion: We present a novel variant in the CACNA1F gene causing phenotypic and electrophysiologic findings indistinguishable from those of AIED/CSNB2A disease. This finding further expands the mutational spectrum and our knowledge of CACNA1F-related disease.