bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
β-lactolin, a Monoamine Oxidase B Inhibitory Lactopeptide, Suppresses Reactive Oxygen Species Production in Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated Astrocytes
Authors: Akiyama Shiori , Ayabe Tatsuhiro , Takahashi Chika , Ohya Rena , Ano Yasuhisa
Published: March 2021

Astrocytes are known to regulate normal brain function. Monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B), an enzyme highly expressed in astrocytes, metabolizes dopamine (DA) and induces reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. We have previously reported that β-lactolin, a whey-derived glycine–threonine–tryptophan–tyrosine tetrapeptide, improves memory impairment in mice by regulating the dopaminergic system; however, the effects of β-lactolin on astrocytes remain unclear. Herein, we investigated the effects of β-lactolin on cultured murine astrocytes. First, we measured intracellular ROS production in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated reactive astrocytes treated with or without β-lactolin, and then determined the role of β-lactolin in DA metabolism in astrocytes by measuring MAO-B enzyme activity and the levels of DA, and its metabolites, in DA-pretreated astrocytes. We found that β-lactolin significantly suppressed ROS production in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated reactive astrocytes (p = 2.76 × 10−6), inhibited MAO-B activity (p = 2.65 × 10−2) and increased intracellular DA levels (p = 1.08 × 10−3), suggesting that β-lactolin could inhibit DA metabolism in astrocytes. These results illustrate the novel protective effects of β-lactolin on reactive astrocytes and suggest their involvement in the memory-improving effects of β-lactolin via the dopaminergic system.
Physico-Chemical Properties of a Hybrid Biomaterial (PVA/Chitosan) Reinforced with Conductive Fillers
Authors: Olarte-Paredes A. , Salgado-Delgado J.N. , Rubio-Rosas E. , Salgado-Delgado A.M. , Hernández-Cocoletzi H. , Salgado-Delgado R. , Moreno-Carpintero E. , Castaño Victor M.
Published: March 2021

In this study, a novel hybrid material based on Polyvinyl Alcohol-Chitosan (PVA-Chi) was made, reinforced with conductive fillers such as the polypyrrole (PPy), Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT: PSS), carbon black (CB), and multi-wall carbon nanotube (MWCNT). In order to observe the mechanical and electrical responses of this composite material, for obtaining composite materials, and to characterize them for the development of applications in engineering, FTIR analysis made clear the different functional groups present in the matrix and the fillers used. Using quaternary mixtures (4 fillers) increased the contact angle, which increased hydrophobicity of the biocomposite. The Nyquist diagram of the analyzed samples showed a decrease in resistance and energy diffusion; the latter because of transferring electrons caused by the conductive polymers CB and the MWCNT. In the mechanical tension tests, Young’s modulus values of 18.386 MPa were obtained, in contrast with the material matrix of PVA-Chi, which showed values of 11.628 MPa. Morphological analysis by SEM showed the materials got were homogeneous. The materials got showed higher electrical conductivity in the OH’s presence and NH2 groups, which could have possible applications in biopolymer electrodes.
Role B4C Addition on Microstructure, Mechanical, and Wear Characteristics of Al-20%Mg2Si Hybrid Metal Matrix Composite
Authors: Ghandvar Hamidreza , Jabbar Mostafa Abbas , Koloor Seyed Saeid Rahimian , Petrů Michal , Bahador Abdollah , Bakar Tuty Asma Abu , Kondoh Katsuyoshi
Published: March 2021

In the current study, the effect of different B4C additions (0, 2.5, 5, and 10 wt%) on the microstructural, solidification behavior, mechanical, and tribological properties of Al-20%Mg2Si composite were studied by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) equipped with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Vickers hardness, tensile, and dry sliding wear tests. The cooling curve thermal analysis (CCTA) approach was utilized to monitor the influence of B4C particles on the solidification behavior of Al-20%Mg2Si composite. The results revealed that the addition of B4C particles up to 10 wt% reduced the nucleation temperature (TN) and growth temperature (TG) of the primary Mg2Si phase. Moreover, the proper amount of B4C added to Al-20%Mg2Si composite has a significant effect on the microstructural alteration, mechanical, and tribological properties of the composite. The mean size of primary Mg2Si in Al-Mg2Si composite was 47 μm, in which with the addition of 5 wt% B4C, the particle size decreased to 33 μm. The highest UTS (217 MPa) and El% (7%) was achieved in Al-20%Mg2Si-5%B4C hybrid composite. The cast Al-20%Mg2Si composite revealed the brittle mode of fracture with some cleavage characterization, in which with the addition of 5%B4C, the fracture mode altered to a more ductile fracture. The wear results revealed that the Al-20%Mg2Si-5%B4C hybrid composite has the highest wear resistance with the lowest wear rate (0.46 mm3/Km) and friction coefficient (µ = 0.52) under 20 N applied load compared to other fabricated composites with mild abrasion as the governed wear mechanism.
Modeling of Voltage Fluctuations Generated by Arc Furnaces
Authors: Olczykowski Zbigniew
Published: March 2021

Arc furnaces can be classified as electricity receivers, which largely affect the quality of electricity in the power system. Voltage fluctuations are the main disturbance generated by arc furnaces. The effects of voltage fluctuations include the phenomenon of flickering light. Apart from voltage fluctuations, arc devices, to a lesser extent, are the source of current and voltage asymmetry, voltage curve distortion, and voltage dips. The main purpose of theoretical considerations is to assess the voltage fluctuations generated by arc furnaces. The article presents a model of an arc device in which the arc has been replaced by a voltage whose value depends on the arc length. It presents also the results of the analysis of measurements of the parameters characterizing voltage fluctuations and flicker indicators.
Improvement of Global Ionospheric TEC Derivation with Multi-Source Data in Modip Latitude
Authors: Fu Weizheng , Ma Guanyi , Lu Weijun , Maruyama Takashi , Li Jinghua , Wan Qingtao , Fan Jiangtao , Wang Xiaolan
Published: March 2021

Global ionospheric total electron content (TEC) is generally derived with ground-based Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) observations based on mathematical models in a solar-geomagnetic reference frame. However, ground-based observations are not well-distributed. There is a lack of observations over sparsely populated areas and vast oceans, where the accuracy of TEC derivation is reduced. Additionally, the modified dip (modip) latitude is more suitable than geomagnetic latitude for the ionosphere. This paper investigates the improvement of global TEC with multi-source data and modip latitude, and a simulation with International Reference Ionosphere (IRI) model is developed. Compared with using ground-based observations in geomagnetic latitude, the mean improvement was about 10.88% after the addition of space-based observations and the adoption of modip latitude. Nevertheless, the data from JASON-2 satellite altimetry and COSMIC occultation are sparsely-sampled, which makes the IRI TEC a reasonable estimation for the areas without observation. By using multi-source data from ground-based, satellite-based and IRI-produced observations, global TEC was derived in both geomagnetic and modip latitudes for 12 days of four seasons in 2014 under geomagnetic quiet conditions. The average root-mean-square error (RMSE) of the fitting was reduced by 7.02% in modip latitude. The improvement was largest in March and smallest in June.
Testing of Alternative Disc Brakes and Friction Materials Regarding Brake Wear Particle Emissions and Temperature Behavior
Authors: Hesse David , Hamatschek Christopher , Augsburg Klaus , Weigelt Thomas , Prahst Alexander , Gramstat Sebastian
Published: March 2021

In this study, different disc brakes and friction materials are evaluated with respect to particle emission output and characteristic features are derived. The measurements take place on an inertia dynamometer using a constant volume sampling system. Brake wear particle emission factors of different disc concepts in different sizes are determined and compared, using a grey cast iron disc, a tungsten carbide-coated disc and a carbon ceramic disc. The brakes were tested over a section (trip #10) novel test cycle developed from the database of the worldwide harmonized Light-Duty vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP). First, brake emission factors were determined along the bedding process using a series of trip-10 tests. The tests were performed starting from unconditioned pads, to characterize the evolution of emissions until their stabilization. In addition to number- and mass-related emission factors (PM2.5–PM10), the particle size distribution was determined. Another focus was the evaluation of temperature ranges and the associated challenges in the use of temperature readings in a potential regulation of brake wear particle emissions. The results illustrate the challenges associated with establishing a universal bedding procedure and using disc temperature measurements for the control of a representative braking procedure. Using tungsten carbide coated discs and carbon ceramic discs, emission reduction potentials of up to 70% (PM10) could be demonstrated along the WLTP brake cycle. The reduction potential is primarily the result of the high wear resistance of the disc, but is additionally influenced by the pad composition and the temperature in the friction contact area.
Transport Characteristics of the Electrification and Lightning of the Gas Mixture Representing the Atmospheres of the Solar System Planets
Authors: Radmilović-Radjenović Marija , Sabo Martin , Radjenović Branislav
Published: March 2021

Electrification represents a fundamental process in planetary atmospheres, widespread in the Solar System. The atmospheres of the terrestrial planets (Venus, Earth, and Mars) range from thin to thick are rich in heavier gases and gaseous compounds, such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen, oxygen, argon, sodium, sulfur dioxide, and carbon monoxide. The Jovian planets (Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune) have thick atmospheres mainly composed of hydrogen and helium involving. The electrical discharge processes occur in the planetary atmospheres leading to potential hazards due to arcing on landers and rovers. Lightning does not only affect the atmospheric chemical composition but also has been involved in the origin of life in the terrestrial atmosphere. This paper is dealing with the transport parameters and the breakdown voltage curves of the gas compositions representing atmospheres of the planets of the Solar System. Ionization coefficients, electron energy distribution functions, and the mean energy of the atmospheric gas mixtures have been calculated by BOLSIG+. Transport parameters of the carbon dioxide rich atmospheric compositions are similar but differ from those of the Earth’s atmosphere. Small differences between parameters of the Solar System’s outer planets can be explained by a small abundance of their constituent gases as compared to the abundance of hydrogen. Based on the fit of the reduced effective ionization coefficient, the breakdown voltage curves for atmospheric mixtures have been plotted. It was found that the breakdown voltage curves corresponding to the atmospheres of Solar System planets follow the standard scaling law. Results of calculations satisfactorily agree with the available data from the literature. The minimal and the maximal value of the voltage required to trigger electric breakdown is obtained for the Martian and Jupiter atmospheres, respectively.
Simulation of Daily Mean Soil Temperatures for Agricultural Land Use Considering Limited Input Data
Authors: Grabenweger Philipp , Lalic Branislava , Trnka Miroslav , Balek Jan , Murer Erwin , Krammer Carmen , Možný Martin , Gobin Anne , Şaylan Levent , Eitzinger Josef
Published: March 2021

A one-dimensional simulation model that simulates daily mean soil temperature on a daily time-step basis, named AGRISOTES (AGRIcultural SOil TEmperature Simulation), is described. It considers ground coverage by biomass or a snow layer and accounts for the freeze/thaw effect of soil water. The model is designed for use on agricultural land with limited (and mostly easily available) input data, for estimating soil temperature spatial patterns, for single sites (as a stand-alone version), or in context with agrometeorological and agronomic models. The calibration and validation of the model are carried out on measured soil temperatures in experimental fields and other measurement sites with various climates, agricultural land uses and soil conditions in Europe. The model validation shows good results, but they are determined strongly by the quality and representativeness of the measured or estimated input parameters to which the model is most sensitive, particularly soil cover dynamics (biomass and snow cover), soil pore volume, soil texture and water content over the soil column.
Initial Dynamics of Quantum Impurities in a Bose–Einstein Condensate
Authors: Skou Magnus G. , Skov Thomas G. , Jørgensen Nils B. , Arlt Jan J.
Published: March 2021

An impurity immersed in a medium constitutes a canonical scenario applicable in a wide range of fields in physics. Though our understanding has advanced significantly in the past decades, quantum impurities in a bosonic environment are still of considerable theoretical and experimental interest. Here, we discuss the initial dynamics of such impurities, which was recently observed in interferometric experiments. Experimental observations from weak to unitary interactions are presented and compared to a theoretical description. In particular, the transition between two initial dynamical regimes dominated by two-body interactions is analyzed, yielding transition times in clear agreement with the theoretical prediction. Additionally, the distinct time dependence of the coherence amplitude in these regimes is obtained by extracting its power-law exponents. This benchmarks our understanding and suggests new ways of probing dynamical properties of quantum impurities.
EUV Beam-Foil Spectra of Scandium, Vanadium, Chromium, Manganese, Cobalt, and Zinc
Authors: Träbert Elmar
Published: March 2021

Beam-foil extreme-ultraviolet spectra of Sc, V, Cr, Mn, Co and Zn are presented that provide survey data of a single element exclusively. Various details are discussed in the context of line intensity ratios, yrast transitions, delayed spectra and peculiar properties of the beam-foil light source.
Capitoline Dolphins: Residency Patterns and Abundance Estimate of Tursiops truncatus at the Tiber River Estuary (Mediterranean Sea)
Authors: Pace Daniela Silvia , Di Marco Chiara , Giacomini Giancarlo , Ferri Sara , Silvestri Margherita , Papale Elena , Casoli Edoardo , Ventura Daniele , Mingione Marco , Alaimo Di Loro Pierfrancesco , Jona Lasinio Giovanna , Ardizzone Giandomenico
Published: March 2021

Periodic assessments of population status and trends to detect natural influences and human effects on coastal dolphin are often limited by lack of baseline information. Here, we investigated for the first time the site-fidelity patterns and estimated the population size of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) at the Tiber River estuary (central Mediterranean, Tyrrhenian Sea, Rome, Italy) between 2017 and 2020. We used photo-identification data and site-fidelity metrics to study the tendency of dolphins to remain in, or return to, the study area, and capture–recapture models to estimate the population abundance. In all, 347 unique individuals were identified. The hierarchical cluster analysis highlighted 3 clusters, labeled resident (individuals encountered at least five times, in three different months, over three distinct years; n = 42), part-time (individuals encountered at least on two occasions in a month, in at least two different years; n = 73), and transient (individuals encountered on more than one occasion, in more than 1 month, none of them in more than 1 year; n = 232), each characterized by site-fidelity metrics. Open POPAN modeling estimated a population size of 529 individuals (95% CI: 456–614), showing that the Capitoline (Roman) coastal area and nearby regions surrounding the Tiber River estuary represent an important, suitable habitat for bottlenose dolphins, despite their proximity to one of the major urban centers in the world (the city of Rome). Given the high number of individuals in the area and the presence of resident individuals with strong site fidelity, we suggest that conservation plans should not be focused only close to the Tiber River mouths but extended to cover a broader scale of area.
Novel Strategies for Treating Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Leung David Ka-Wai , Chiu Peter Ka-Fung , Ng Chi-Fai , Teoh Jeremy Yuen-Chun
Published: March 2021

The development of castration resistance is an inevitable pathway for the vast majority of patients with advanced prostate cancer. Recently, there have been significant breakthroughs in the understanding and management options of castration-resistant prostate cancer. Three novel hormonal agents showed survival benefits in non-metastatic patients. As for metastatic disease, there was an even wider range of management options being investigated. This review summarized advances in the management of castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) including emerging data on novel imaging techniques and treatment strategies.
Characterization and Full Genome Sequence of Novel KPP-5 Lytic Phage against Klebsiella pneumoniae Responsible for Recalcitrant Infection
Authors: Sofy Ahmed R. , El-Dougdoug Noha K. , Refaey Ehab E. , Dawoud Rehab A. , Hmed Ahmed A.
Published: March 2021

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a hazardous opportunistic pathogen that is involved in many serious human diseases and is considered to be an important foodborne pathogen found in many food types. Multidrug resistance (MDR) K. pneumoniae strains have recently spread and increased, making bacteriophage therapy an effective alternative to multiple drug-resistant pathogens. As a consequence, this research was conducted to describe the genome and basic biological characteristics of a novel phage capable of lysing MDR K. pneumoniae isolated from food samples in Egypt. The host range revealed that KPP-5 phage had potent lytic activity and was able to infect all selected MDR K. pneumoniae strains from different sources. Electron microscopy images showed that KPP-5 lytic phage was a podovirus morphology. The one-step growth curve exhibited that KPP-5 phage had a relatively short latent period of 25 min, and the burst size was about 236 PFU/infected cells. In addition, KPP-5 phage showed high stability at different temperatures and pH levels. KPP-5 phage has a linear dsDNA genome with a length of 38,245 bp with a GC content of 50.8% and 40 predicted open reading frames (ORFs). Comparative genomics and phylogenetic analyses showed that KPP-5 is most closely associated with the Teetrevirus genus in the Autographviridae family. No tRNA genes have been identified in the KPP-5 phage genome. In addition, phage-borne virulence genes or drug resistance genes were not present, suggesting that KPP-5 could be used safely as a phage biocontrol agent.
Combined Proteotranscriptomic-Based Strategy to Discover Novel Antimicrobial Peptides from Cone Snails
Authors: Ebou Anicet , Koua Dominique , Addablah Audrey , Kakou-Ngazoa Solange , Dutertre Sébastien
Published: March 2021

Despite their impressive diversity and already broad therapeutic applications, cone snail venoms have received less attention as a natural source in the investigation of antimicrobial peptides than other venomous animals such as scorpions, spiders, or snakes. Cone snails are among the largest genera (Conus sp.) of marine invertebrates, with more than seven hundred species described to date. These predatory mollusks use their sophisticated venom apparatus to capture prey or defend themselves. In-depth studies of these venoms have unraveled many biologically active peptides with pharmacological properties of interest in the field of pain management, the treatment of epilepsy, neurodegenerative diseases, and cardiac ischemia. Considering sequencing efficiency and affordability, cone snail venom gland transcriptome analyses could allow the discovery of new, promising antimicrobial peptides. We first present here the need for novel compounds like antimicrobial peptides as a viable alternative to conventional antibiotics. Secondly, we review the current knowledge on cone snails as a source of antimicrobial peptides. Then, we present the current state of the art in analytical methods applied to crude or milked venom followed by how antibacterial activity assay can be implemented for fostering cone snail antimicrobial peptides studies. We also propose a new innovative profile Hidden Markov model-based approach to annotate full venom gland transcriptomes and speed up the discovery of potentially active peptides from cone snails.
Wind Dispersal of Natural and Biomimetic Maple Samaras
Authors: Nave Gary K. , Hall Nathaniel , Somers Katrina , Davis Brock , Gruszewski Hope , Powers Craig , Collver Michael , Schmale David G. , Ross Shane D.
Published: March 2021

Maple trees (genus Acer) accomplish the task of distributing objects to a wide area by producing seeds, known as samaras, which are carried by the wind as they autorotate and slowly descend to the ground. With the goal of supporting engineering applications, such as gathering environmental data over a broad area, we developed 3D-printed artificial samaras. Here, we compare the behavior of both natural and artificial samaras in both still-air laboratory experiments and wind dispersal experiments in the field. We show that the artificial samaras are able to replicate (within one standard deviation) the behavior of natural samaras in a lab setting. We further use the notion of windage to compare dispersal behavior, and show that the natural samara has the highest mean windage, corresponding to the longest flights during both high wind and low wind experimental trials. This study demonstrated a bioinspired design for the dispersed deployment of sensors and provides a better understanding of wind-dispersal of both natural and artificial samaras.
Textured Building Façades: Utilizing Morphological Adaptations Found in Nature for Evaporative Cooling
Authors: Peeks Megan , Badarnah Lidia
Published: March 2021

The overheating of buildings and their need for mechanical cooling is a growing issue as a result of climate change. The main aim of this paper is to examine the impact of surface texture on heat loss capabilities of concrete panels through evaporative cooling. Organisms maintain their body temperature in very narrow ranges in order to survive, where they employ morphological and behavioral means to complement physiological strategies for adaptation. This research follows a biomimetic approach to develop a design solution. The skin morphology of elephants was identified as a successful example that utilizes evaporative cooling and has, therefore, informed the realization of a textured façade panel. A systematic process has been undertaken to examine the impact of different variables on the cooling ability of the panels, bringing in new morphological considerations for surface texture. The results showed that the morphological variables of assembly and depth of texture have impact on heat loss, and the impact of surface area to volume (SA:V) ratios on heat loss capabilities varies for different surface roughness. This study demonstrates the potential exploitation of morphological adaptation to buildings, that could contribute to them cooling passively and reduce the need for expensive and energy consuming mechanical systems. Furthermore, it suggests areas for further investigation and opens new avenues for novel thermal solutions inspired by nature for the built environment.
Behavioral and Gene Expression Analysis of Stxbp6-Knockout Mice
Authors: Liu Cong , Hu Qian , Chen Yan , Wu Lingqian , Liu Xionghao , Liang Desheng
Published: March 2021

Since the first report that Stxbp6, a brain-enriched protein, regulates the assembly of soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) complexes, little has been discovered about its functions over the past two decades. To determine the effects of Stxbp6 loss on nervous-system-associated phenotypes and underlying mechanisms, we constructed a global Stxbp6-knockout mouse. We found that Stxbp6-null mice survive normally, with normal behavior, but gained less weight relative to age- and sex-matched wildtype mice. RNA-seq analysis of the cerebral cortex of Stxbp6-null mice relative to wildtype controls identified 126 differentially expressed genes. Of these, 57 were upregulated and 69 were downregulated. Moreover, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis showed that the most significant enriched KEGG term was “complement and coagulation cascades”. Our results suggest some potential regulatory pathways of Stxbp6 in the central nervous system, providing a remarkable new resource for understanding Stxbp6 function at the organism level.
Morphological Characterization and Lumped Element Model of Graphene and Biochar Thick Films
Authors: Yasir Muhammad , Zaccagnini Pietro , Palmara Gianluca , Frascella Francesca , Paccotti Niccolò , Savi Patrizia
Published: March 2021

Carbon based materials exhibit interesting mechanical, thermal and electrical properties which make them excellent contenders for use as fillers in composites as film. Graphene has been vastly used among the carbon-based materials. More recently eco-friendly carbon-based materials like biochar have emerged. The deployment of carbon-based materials in films needs to be studied since films are more versatile and permit the exploitation of electrical properties of such materials over circuits and systems. Typical circuits and systems exploiting electrical properties of novel materials perform a number of applications including sensing, detection, tunable devices and energy harvesting. In this paper, films composed of 9:1 graphene or biochar are deployed on a microstrip line. The morphological properties of graphene and biochar and their respective films are studied with Raman spectra and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM). The electrical properties (four-point probe measurements and scattering parameter measurements) of the films. Low frequency measurements are used as starting point for circuit models estimating the lumped impedance of the films. From the morphological characterization it is shown that biochar films appear as granulates carbonaceous materials whereas graphene films contains several flakes forming a network. From the low frequency measurements and microwave characterization it is seen that graphene films are more conductive as compared to biochar films. In many applications, it is useful to know the surface impedance of the film since it varies on interaction with any external stimulus (variation of pressure, humidity, gas, etc.).
Overexpression of Human Syndecan-1 Protects against the Diethylnitrosamine-Induced Hepatocarcinogenesis in Mice
Authors: Reszegi Andrea , Karászi Katalin , Tóth Gábor , Rada Kristóf , Váncza Lóránd , Turiák Lilla , Schaff Zsuzsa , Kiss András , Szilák László , Szabó Gábor , Petővári Gábor , Sebestyén Anna , Dezső Katalin , Regős Eszter , Tátrai Péter , Baghy Kornélia , Kovalszky Ilona
Published: March 2021

Although syndecan-1 (SDC1) is known to be dysregulated in various cancer types, its implication in tumorigenesis is poorly understood. Its effect may be detrimental or protective depending on the type of cancer. Our previous data suggest that SDC1 is protective against hepatocarcinogenesis. To further verify this notion, human SDC1 transgenic (hSDC1+/+) mice were generated that expressed hSDC1 specifically in the liver under the control of the albumin promoter. Hepatocarcinogenesis was induced by a single dose of diethylnitrosamine (DEN) at an age of 15 days after birth, which resulted in tumors without cirrhosis in wild-type and hSDC1+/+ mice. At the experimental endpoint, livers were examined macroscopically and histologically, as well as by immunohistochemistry, Western blot, receptor tyrosine kinase array, phosphoprotein array, and proteomic analysis. Liver-specific overexpression of hSDC1 resulted in an approximately six month delay in tumor formation via the promotion of SDC1 shedding, downregulation of lipid metabolism, inhibition of the mTOR and the β-catenin pathways, and activation of the Foxo1 and p53 transcription factors that lead to the upregulation of the cell cycle inhibitors p21 and p27. Furthermore, both of them are implicated in the regulation of intermediary metabolism. Proteomic analysis showed enhanced lipid metabolism, activation of motor proteins, and loss of mitochondrial electron transport proteins as promoters of cancer in wild-type tumors, inhibited in the hSDC1+/+ livers. These complex mechanisms mimic the characteristics of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) induced human liver cancer successfully delayed by syndecan-1.
MicroRNAs Possibly Involved in the Development of Bone Metastasis in Clear-Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Kinget Lisa , Roussel Eduard , Lambrechts Diether , Boeckx Bram , Vanginderhuysen Loïc , Albersen Maarten , Rodríguez-Antona Cristina , Graña-Castro Osvaldo , Inglada-Pérez Lucía , Verbiest Annelies , Zucman-Rossi Jessica , Couchy Gabrielle , Caruso Stefano , Laenen Annouschka , Baldewijns Marcella , Beuselinck Benoit
Published: March 2021

Bone metastasis in clear-cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) leads to substantial morbidity through skeletal related adverse events and implicates worse clinical outcomes. MicroRNAs (miRNA) are small non-protein coding RNA molecules with important regulatory functions in cancer development and metastasis. In this retrospective analysis we present dysregulated miRNA in ccRCC, which are associated with bone metastasis. In particular, miR-23a-3p, miR-27a-3p, miR-20a-5p, and miR-335-3p specifically correlated with the earlier appearance of bone metastasis, compared to metastasis in other organs. In contrast, miR-30b-3p and miR-139-3p were correlated with less occurrence of bone metastasis. These miRNAs are potential biomarkers and attractive targets for miRNA inhibitors or mimics, which could lead to novel therapeutic possibilities for bone targeted treatment in metastatic ccRCC.
Noncoding RNAs in Glioblastoma: Emerging Biological Concepts and Potential Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Shahzad Uswa , Krumholtz Stacey , Rutka James T. , Das Sunit
Published: March 2021

Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) have emerged as a novel class of genomic regulators, ushering in a new era in molecular biology. With the advent of advanced genetic sequencing technology, several different classes of ncRNAs have been uncovered, including microRNAs (miRNAs), long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), circular RNAs (circRNAs), and piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), which have been linked to many important developmental and disease processes and are being pursued as clinical and therapeutic targets. Molecular phenotyping studies of glioblastoma (GBM), the most common and lethal cancer of the adult brain, revealed that several ncRNAs are frequently dysregulated in its pathogenesis. Additionally, ncRNAs regulate many important aspects of glioma biology including tumour cell proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis, angiogenesis, and self-renewal. Here, we present an overview of the biogenesis of the different classes of ncRNAs, discuss their biological roles, as well as their relevance to gliomagenesis. We conclude by discussing potential approaches to therapeutically target the ncRNAs in clinic.
Latest Comprehensive Medical Resource Consumption in Robot-Assisted versus Laparoscopic and Traditional Open Radical Prostatectomy: A Nationwide Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Wu Szu-Yuan , Chang Shyh-Chyi , Chen Chang-I , Huang Chung-Chien
Published: March 2021

Background: Few studies have evaluated long-term medical monetary cost in patients with prostate cancer (PC) receiving open radical prostatectomy (ORP), laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP), or robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). To the best of our knowledge, this is the largest and longest follow-up study to examine medical monetary cost in patients with PC undergoing ORP, LRP, or RARP. After adjustment for confounders, the medical monetary cost in the RARP group was the least compared with that in the ORP and LRP groups. Purpose: To estimate long-term medical resource consumption among patients with prostate cancer (PC) receiving open radical prostatectomy (ORP), laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP), or robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). Patients and Methods: Participants were men enrolled in the Taiwan Cancer Registry with localized PC diagnosis who received radical prostatectomy. After adjustment for confounders, a generalized linear mixed model was used to determine significant differences in the number of urology outpatient clinic visits required, proportion of patients being hospitalized for urinary diseases or surgical complications, and medical reimbursement for urinary diseases or surgical complications following ORP, LRP, or RARP in the first, second, and third years. Results: No differences were observed in the median number of urology outpatient clinic visits between the three types of surgical modalities up to the second year after ORP, LRP, and RARP (median: 15, 10, and seven visits, respectively; p < 0.001), but significant differences were observed in the third year. Similarly, with RARP (10.9% versus 18.7% in ORP and 9.8% in LRP; p = 0.0014), the rate of hospitalization for urinary diseases or surgical complications decreased in the third year. Medical reimbursement for urinary diseases or surgical complications reduced after RARP compared with that for ORP and LRP, with approximately 22% reduction in the first year (p = 0.0052) and 20–40% reduction in the third year (p value = 0.0024). Conclusions: Medical resource consumption in the RARP group was less compared with those in the ORP and LRP groups.
Realizing Innate Potential: CAR-NK Cell Therapies for Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Gurney Mark , O’Dwyer Michael
Published: March 2021

Next-generation cellular immunotherapies seek to improve the safety and efficacy of approved CD19 chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell products or apply their principles across a growing list of targets and diseases. Supported by promising early clinical experiences, CAR modified natural killer (CAR-NK) cell therapies represent a complementary and potentially off-the-shelf, allogeneic solution. While acute myeloid leukemia (AML) represents an intuitive disease in which to investigate CAR based immunotherapies, key biological differences to B-cell malignancies have complicated progress to date. As CAR-T cell trials treating AML are growing in number, several CAR-NK cell approaches are also in development. In this review we explore why CAR-NK cell therapies may be particularly suited to the treatment of AML. First, we examine the established role NK cells play in AML biology and the existing anti-leukemic activity of NK cell adoptive transfer. Next, we appraise potential AML target antigens and consider common and unique challenges posed relative to treating B-cell malignancies. We summarize the current landscape of CAR-NK development in AML, and potential targets to augment CAR-NK cell therapies pharmacologically and through genetic engineering. Finally, we consider the broader landscape of competing immunotherapeutic approaches to AML treatment. In doing so we evaluate the innate potential, status and remaining barriers for CAR-NK based AML immunotherapy.
Immunotherapy in Advanced Biliary Tract Cancers
Authors: Boilève Alice , Hilmi Marc , Smolenschi Cristina , Ducreux Michel , Hollebecque Antoine , Malka David
Published: March 2021

Biliary tract cancers are rare tumors with a poor prognosis. Two-thirds of these primary liver malignancies are diagnosed at advanced stages where therapeutic options are limited. Whereas several molecular targeted therapies emerge in biliary tract cancers, immunotherapy is still investigational, the only approved immunotherapy to date being the immune checkpoint inhibitor pembrolizumab for the small fraction of patients with microsatellite-instable tumors. In microsatellite-stable, pre-treated biliary tract cancers, single-agent immune checkpoint blockade has a limited albeit often long-lasting clinical activity in a still ill-defined subgroup of patients. The identification of predictive biomarkers will allow a better selection of patients that may benefit from immunotherapy. Combinations of immunotherapies with each other, with chemotherapy or targeted molecular therapies are being investigated in early lines of therapy, including first-line.
The Impact of Cell-Free DNA Analysis on the Management of Retinoblastoma
Authors: Gerrish Amy , Jenkinson Helen , Cole Trevor
Published: March 2021

Retinoblastoma is a childhood eye cancer, mainly caused by mutations in the RB1 gene, which can be somatic or constitutional. Unlike many other cancers, tumour biopsies are not performed due to the risk of tumour dissemination. As a result, until recently, somatic genetic analysis was only possible if an affected eye was removed as part of a treatment. Several recent proof of principle studies have demonstrated that the analysis of tumour-derived cell-free DNA, either obtained from ocular fluid or blood plasma, has the potential to advance the diagnosis and influence the prognosis of retinoblastoma patients. It has been shown that a confirmed diagnosis is possible in retinoblastoma patients undergoing conservative treatment. In vivo genetic analysis of retinoblastoma tumours is also now possible, allowing the potential identification of secondary genetic events as prognostic biomarkers. In addition, noninvasive prenatal diagnosis in children at risk of inheriting retinoblastoma has been developed. Here, we review the current literature and discuss the potential impact of cell-free DNA analysis on both the diagnosis and treatment of retinoblastoma patients and their families.
CO2 Hydrogenation to Methane over Ni-Catalysts: The Effect of Support and Vanadia Promoting
Authors: Pieta Izabela S. , Lewalska-Graczyk Agnieszka , Kowalik Pawel , Antoniak-Jurak Katarzyna , Krysa Mikolaj , Sroka-Bartnicka Anna , Gajek Arkadiusz , Lisowski Wojciech , Mrdenovic Dusan , Pieta Piotr , Nowakowski Robert , Lew Agata , Serwicka Ewa M.
Published: March 2021

Within the Waste2Fuel project, innovative, high-performance, and cost-effective fuel production methods are developed to target the “closed carbon cycle”. The catalysts supported on different metal oxides were characterized by XRD, XPS, Raman, UV-Vis, temperature-programmed techniques; then, they were tested in CO2 hydrogenation at 1 bar. Moreover, the V2O5 promotion was studied for Ni/Al2O3 catalyst. The precisely designed hydrotalcite-derived catalyst and vanadia-promoted Ni-catalysts deliver exceptional conversions for the studied processes, presenting high durability and selectivity, outperforming the best-known catalysts. The equilibrium conversion was reached at temperatures around 623 K, with the primary product of reaction CH4 (>97% CH4 yield). Although the Ni loading in hydrotalcite-derived NiWP is lower by more than 40%, compared to reference NiR catalyst and available commercial samples, the activity increases for this sample, reaching almost equilibrium values (GHSV = 1.2 × 104 h–1, 1 atm, and 293 K).
Synthesis and Characterization of Iron-Doped TiO2 Nanoparticles Using Ferrocene from Flame Spray Pyrolysis
Authors: Ismail Mohamed Anwar , Hedhili Mohamed N. , Anjum Dalaver H. , Singaravelu Venkatesh , Chung Suk Ho
Published: March 2021

Iron-doped titanium dioxide nanoparticles, with Fe/Ti atomic ratios from 0% to 10%, were synthesized by flame spray pyrolysis (FSP), employing a single-step method. Ferrocene, being nontoxic and readily soluble in liquid hydrocarbons, was used as the iron source, while titanium tetraisopropoxide (TTIP) was used as the precursor for TiO2. The general particle characterization and phase description were examined using ICP-OES, XRD, BET, and Raman spectroscopy, whereas the XPS technique was used to study the surface chemistry of the synthesized particles. For particle morphology, HRTEM with EELS and EDS analyses were used. Optical and magnetic properties were examined using UV–vis and SQUID, respectively. Iron doping to TiO2 nanoparticles promoted rutile phase formation, which was minor in the pure TiO2 particles. Iron-doped nanoparticles exhibited a uniform iron distribution within the particles. XPS and UV–vis results revealed that Fe2+ was dominant for lower iron content and Fe3+ was common for higher iron content and the iron-containing particles had a contracted band gap of ~1 eV lower than pure TiO2 particles with higher visible light absorption. SQUID results showed that doping TiO2 with Fe changed the material to be paramagnetic. The generated nanoparticles showed a catalytic effect for dye-degradation under visible light.
Subnormothermic Ex Vivo Lung Perfusion Temperature Improves Graft Preservation in Lung Transplantation
Authors: Arni Stephan , Maeyashiki Tatsuo , Citak Necati , Opitz Isabelle , Inci Ilhan
Published: March 2021

Normothermic machine perfusion is clinically used to assess the quality of marginal donor lungs. Although subnormothermic temperatures have proven beneficial for other solid organ transplants, subnormothermia-related benefits of ex vivo lung perfusion (EVLP) still need to be investigated. Material and Methods: In a rat model, we evaluated the effects of 28 °C temperature on 4-h EVLPs with subsequent left lung transplantation. The recipients were observed for 2 h postoperatively. Lung physiology data were recorded and metabolic parameters were assessed. Results: During the 4-h subnormothermic EVLP, the lung oxygenation was significantly higher (p < 0.001), pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) lower and dynamic compliance (Cdyn) higher when compared to the 37 °C EVLP. During an end-of-EVLP stress test, we recorded significantly higher flow (p < 0.05), lower PVR (p < 0.05) and higher Cdyn (p < 0.01) in the 28 °C group when compared to the 37 °C group. After the left lung transplantation, Cdyn and oxygenation improved in the 28 °C group, which were comparable to the 37 °C group. Chemokines RANTES, MIP-3α, MIP-1α MCP-1 GRO/KC and pro-inflammatory mediators GM-CSF, G-CSF and TNFα were significantly lower after the 28 °C EVLP and remained low in the plasma of the recipient rats after transplantation. The lungs of the 28 °C group showed significantly lowered myeloperoxidase activity and lowered levels of TNFα and IL-1β. Conclusions: Compared to the normothermic perfusion, the 28 °C EVLP improved Cdyn and PVR and reduced both the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and myeloperoxidase activity in lung tissue. These observations were also observed after the left lung transplantation in the subnormothermic group. The 28 °C EVLP significantly improved biochemical, physiological and inflammatory parameters in lung donors.
Examining Variations in Surfactant Administration (ENVISION): A Neonatology Insights Pilot Project
Authors: Patel Priya , Houck Andrew , Fuentes Daniel
Published: March 2021

Variability in neonatal clinical practice is well recognized. Respiratory management involves interdisciplinary care and often is protocol driven. The most recent published guidelines for management of respiratory distress syndrome and surfactant administration were published in 2014 and may not reflect current clinical practice in the United States. The goal of this project was to better understand variability in surfactant administration through conduct of health care provider (HCP) interviews. Questions focused on known practice variations included: use of premedication, decisions to treat, technique of surfactant administration and use of guidelines. Data were analyzed for trends and results were communicated with participants. A total of 54 HCPs participated from June to September 2020. In almost all settings, neonatologists or nurse practitioners intubated the infant and respiratory therapists administered surfactant. The INSURE (INtubation-SURrfactant-Extubation) technique was practiced by 83% of participants. Premedication prior to intubation was used by 76% of HCPs. An FiO2 ≥ 30% was the most common threshold for surfactant administration (48%). In conclusion, clinical practice variations exist in respiratory management and surfactant administration and do not seem to be specific to NICU level or institution type. It is unknown what effects the variability in clinical practice might have on clinical outcomes.
Engineered Nanomaterials for Aviation Industry in COVID-19 Context: A Time-Sensitive Review
Authors: Pathak Sunil , Saha Gobinda C. , Abdul Hadi Musfirah Binti , Jain Neelesh K.
Published: March 2021

Engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) are catalyzing the Industry 4.0 euphoria in a significant way. One prime beneficiary of ENMs is the transportation industry (automotive, aerospace, rail car), where nanostructured multi-materials have ushered the path toward high-strength, ultra-impact-resistant, lightweight, and functionally graded engineered surfaces/components creation. The present paper aims to extrapolate much-needed ENMs knowledge from literature and its usage in the aviation industry, highlighting ENMs contribution to aviation state-of-the-art. Topics such as ENMs classification, manufacturing/synthesis methods, properties, and characteristics derived from their utilization and uniqueness are addressed. The discussion will lead to novel materials’ evolving need to protect aerospace surfaces from unfolding SARS-COVID-19 and other airborne pathogens of a lifetime challenge.
The Influence of Surface Preparation of the Steel during the Renovation of the Car Body on Its Corrosion Resistance
Authors: Ulbrich Dariusz , Kowalczyk Jakub , Stachowiak Arkadiusz , Sawczuk Wojciech , Selech Jaroslaw
Published: March 2021

The article presents the influence of the applied method used for removing the varnish coat on the corrosion resistance of the car body sheet. The tests were carried out on samples prepared from factory-painted car body elements with pearlescent, metallized and acrylic varnish. Removal of the varnish coat was performed by sandpaper grinding, glass bead blasting, disc blaze rapid stripping, soda blasting and abrasive blasting with plastic granules. The average thickness of the factory-painted coating depending on the type of lacquer ranged from about 99 to 140 µm. On the other hand, after removing the varnish, the thickness of the protective zinc coating ranged from 2 to 12.7 µm. The highest values of the zinc coating were obtained for samples in which the varnish was removed by the method such as soda blasting and abrasive blasting with plastic granules. For these two methods of surface preparation, the damage to the zinc layer protecting the steel against corrosion is the smallest and the percentage of zinc in the surface layer ranges from 58% to 78%. The final stage of the research was to test the samples after removing the varnish coat in a two-hour exposure to the corrosive environment in a salt spray chamber. Samples with the surface prepared by grinding with sandpaper reached the level of surface rusting Ri 5, while in the case of soda blasting and the use of plastic granules, no corrosion centers were observed on the surface of the car body sheet.