bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Floating Metallic Particles in Pre-Breakdown and Breakdown Characteristics of Oil Transformer under DC Voltage
Authors: Yulistya Negara I. Made , Fahmi Daniar , Asfani Dimas Anton , Hernanda I. G. N. Satriyadi , Wahyudi Mochammad , Ibrahim Muhammad Novis
Published: June 2021

Contaminants in transformer oil insulation can float when meeting several conditions. Then, the presence of floating contaminants affects the electrical characteristics of oil insulation. Therefore, the pre-breakdown (corona) and breakdown characteristics due to metallic floating particles in transformer oil insulation would be investigated. This test used DC high voltage stress. A 56 Ω resistor was connected to the oscilloscope to detect the corona currents. The camera was used to capture the images of corona light emission. In addition, the electric field between the electrode and particles was simulated. The variables were the particle size, including its shape, and the distance between the particles and the grounded electrode. The experimental results show that the average value of corona inception and breakdown was inversely proportional to the size of floating particles. The peak value of corona current was directly proportional to the particle size. The lowest breakdown voltage was found when the particle was close to the electrode, but they were not in contact.
Impacts of Electricity Outages in Urban Households in Developing Countries: A Case of Accra, Ghana
Authors: Nduhuura Paul , Garschagen Matthias , Zerga Abdellatif
Published: June 2021

Many developing countries in Africa face a “double tragedy” when it comes to electrification. Electricity access rates are low, while those who have access to electricity face frequent outages. There are ongoing efforts aimed at increasing access to electricity on the continent. However, the need to improve the reliability of electricity supply receives limited attention. Unreliable electricity impacts users by limiting electricity utilization and the benefits that should accrue from having an electricity connection. Using data from 496 household survey questionnaires, this study examines the impacts of electricity outages in urban households in Accra, Ghana. The study applies correlation and regression analyses to identify which household characteristics are associated with or predict households reporting outage impacts. Outages were found to impact household safety/security, access to food, and access to social services and were found to cause appliance damage as well. Factors that are significantly correlated with reporting certain outage impacts include respondent’s annual income and employment status, frequency of electricity outages, and household size. Significant predictors of reporting outage impacts are socioeconomic disadvantage, high exposure to outages, and living in a large family setting. The study’s findings underscore the need for interventions to eliminate, or at least minimize, electricity supply interruptions in developing countries if sustainable social and economic development is to be achieved.
Series-Parallel Reconfigurable Electric Double-Layer Capacitor Module with Cell Equalization Capability, High Energy Utilization Ratio, and Good Modularity
Authors: Uno Masatoshi , Lin Ziyan , Koyama Kakeru
Published: June 2021

Voltages of electric double-layer capacitor (EDLC) modules vary rather wider than traditional secondary batteries. Although EDLCs should desirably be cycled in a voltage range as wide as possible to achieve a high energy utilization ratio, the wide voltage variation of EDLC modules impairs the performance of DC–DC converters. To address such issues, previous works reported series-parallel reconfiguration techniques, which are roughly divided into balance- and unbalance-shift circuits. However, conventional balance-shift circuits are not applicable to modules comprising odd number cells, impairing modularity. Unbalance-shift circuits, on the other hand, unavoidably cause cell voltage imbalance that reduces energy utilization ratio. This paper proposes a novel series-parallel reconfigurable EDLC module with cell voltage equalization capability. The proposed reconfigurable EDLC module is applicable to any number of cells, realizing good modularity. Furthermore, all cells in the proposed module can be charged and discharged uniformly without generating cell voltage imbalance, achieving an improved energy utilization ratio compared with conventional techniques. A five-cell module prototype was built for experimental verification. While the module voltage varied between 1.04 and 2.83 V, all cells discharged from 2.5 to 0.3 V. The result is equivalent to a 98.6% energy utilization ratio.
An Eco-Friendly Gas Insulated Transformer Design
Authors: Guney Ezgi , Ozgonenel Okan
Published: June 2021

Electricity companies around the world are constantly seeking ways to provide electricity more safely and efficiently while reducing the negative impact on the environment. Mineral oils have been the most popular transformer insulation, having excellent electrical insulating properties, but have many problems such as high flammability, significant cleaning problems, and are toxic to fish and wildlife. This paper presents an alternative approach to mineral oil: a transformer design that is clean and provides better performance and environmental benefits. A 50 kVA, 34.5/0.4 kV gas insulated distribution transformer was designed and evaluated using the COMSOL Multiphysics environment. R410A was used as insulation material. R410A is a near-azeotropic mixture of difluoromethane (CH2F2, called R-32) and pentafluoro ethane (C2HF5, called R-125), which is used as a refrigerant in air conditioning applications. It has excellent properties including environmentally friendly, no-ozone depletion, low greenhouse effect, non-explosive and non-flammable, First, the breakdown voltage of the selected gas was determined. The electrostatic and thermal properties of the R410A gas insulated transformer were investigated in the COMSOL environment. The simulation results for the performance of oil and SF6 gas insulated transformers using the same model were compared. The gas-insulated transformer is believed to have equivalent performance and is an environmentally friendly alternative to current oil-based transformers.
Analysis and Predicting the Energy Consumption of Low-Pressure Carburising Processes
Authors: Kłos Sławomir , Patalas-Maliszewska Justyna , Piechowicz Łukasz , Wachowski Krzysztof
Published: June 2021

The monitoring of the performance of heat treatment equipment has been the subject of a number of studies. This paper proposes and explores a new study on the models—and the monitoring thereof—for predicting the energy intensity of low-pressure carburisation processes using the DeepCaseMaster Evolution soaking furnace. For research purposes, 18 carburising experiments were performed with different carbon layers, at different input parameters, such as the number of cycles, time, temperature and average carburising pressure. Based on the research experiments conducted and statistical analysis, the influence of individual parameters on the energy consumption of the pump and heating systems was determined. Moreover, the models were verified on real data of low-pressure carburising processes. The innovativeness of the proposed solution is a combination of two areas: (1) defining and measurement of the parameters of the low-pressure carburising process; and (2) predicting the energy consumption of low-pressure carburising processes using correlation and regression analyses. The possibilities of using the results of this research in practice are demonstrated convincingly.
The Contribution of Epigenetic Inheritance Processes on Age-Related Cognitive Decline and Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Bellver-Sanchis Aina , Pallàs Mercè , Griñán-Ferré Christian
Published: June 2021

During the last years, epigenetic processes have emerged as important factors for many neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD). These complex diseases seem to have a heritable component; however, genome-wide association studies failed to identify the genetic loci involved in the etiology. So, how can these changes be transmitted from one generation to the next? Answering this question would allow us to understand how the environment can affect human populations for multiple generations and explain the high prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases, such as AD. This review pays particular attention to the relationship among epigenetics, cognition, and neurodegeneration across generations, deepening the understanding of the relevance of heritability in neurodegenerative diseases. We highlight some recent examples of EI induced by experiences, focusing on their contribution of processes in learning and memory to point out new targets for therapeutic interventions. Here, we first describe the prominent role of epigenetic factors in memory processing. Then, we briefly discuss aspects of EI. Additionally, we summarize evidence of how epigenetic marks inherited by experience and/or environmental stimuli contribute to cognitive status offspring since better knowledge of EI can provide clues in the appearance and development of age-related cognitive decline and AD.
A Monolithic and a Partitioned, Reduced Basis Method for Fluid–Structure Interaction Problems
Authors: Nonino Monica , Ballarin Francesco , Rozza Gianluigi
Published: June 2021

The aim of this work is to present an overview about the combination of the Reduced Basis Method (RBM) with two different approaches for Fluid–Structure Interaction (FSI) problems, namely a monolithic and a partitioned approach. We provide the details of implementation of two reduction procedures, and we then apply them to the same test case of interest. We first implement a reduction technique that is based on a monolithic procedure where we solve the fluid and the solid problems all at once. We then present another reduction technique that is based on a partitioned (or segregated) procedure: the fluid and the solid problems are solved separately and then coupled using a fixed point strategy. The toy problem that we consider is based on the Turek–Hron benchmark test case, with a fluid Reynolds number Re=100.
Antimicrobial Activity and Protective Effect of Tuscan Bee Pollens on Oxidative and Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Different Cell-Based Models
Authors: Gabriele Morena , Frassinetti Stefania , Pucci Laura
Published: June 2021

Bee pollen is an apiary product of great interest owing to its high nutritional and therapeutic properties. This study aimed to assess the cellular antioxidant activity and the antihemolytic effect of Castanea, Rubus, and Cistus bee pollens on human erythrocytes. We also tested the antimicrobial potential of each sample on selected Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. Finally, the effect of Castanea bee pollen, showing the best phytochemical profile, was analyzed on human microvascular endothelial cells exposed to thapsigargin, used as endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stressor. Our results showed good biological activities of all bee pollen samples that, under oxidative conditions, significantly improved the erythrocytes’ antioxidant activity and limited cell lyses. Castanea and Cistus showed comparable antihemolytic activities, with higher % hemolysis inhibition than Rubus. All samples exerted antimicrobial activity with different selectivity among all the tested microorganisms with minimal inhibitory concentration values ranging from 5 to 10 mg/mL. Finally, Castanea bee pollen was effective in reducing gene over-expression and oxidation process arising from thapsigargin treatment, with a maximum protective effect at 10 µg/mL. In conclusion, bee pollen represents a potential natural antibacterial and a good nutraceutical product useful in the prevention of free radical and ER stress-associated diseases.
A Systematic Review of Listeria Species and Listeria monocytogenes Prevalence, Persistence, and Diversity throughout the Fresh Produce Supply Chain
Authors: Townsend Anna , Strawn Laura K. , Chapman Benjamin J. , Dunn Laurel L.
Published: June 2021

Listeria monocytogenes is an increasing food safety concern throughout the produce supply chain as it has been linked to produce associated outbreaks and recalls. To our knowledge, this is the first systematic literature review to investigate Listeria species and L. monocytogenes prevalence, persistence, and diversity at each stage along the supply chain. This review identified 64 articles of 4863 candidate articles obtained from four Boolean search queries in six databases. Included studies examined naturally detected/isolated Listeria species and L. monocytogenes in fresh produce-related environments, and/or from past fresh produce associated outbreaks or from produce directly. Listeria species and L. monocytogenes were detected in each stage of the fresh produce supply chain. The greatest prevalence of Listeria species was observed in natural environments and outdoor production, with prevalence generally decreasing with each progression of the supply chain (e.g., packinghouse to distribution to retail). L. monocytogenes prevalence ranged from 61.1% to not detected (0.00%) across the entire supply chain for included studies. Listeria persistence and diversity were also investigated more in natural, production, and processing environments, compared to other supply chain environments (e.g., retail). Data gaps were identified for future produce safety research, for example, in the transportation and distribution center environment.
In Vitro Probiotic Evaluation of Saccharomyces boulardii with Antimicrobial Spectrum in a Caenorhabditis elegans Model
Authors: Chelliah Ramachandran , Kim Eun-Ji , Daliri Eric , Antony Usha , Oh Deog-Hwan
Published: June 2021

In the present study, we screened for potential probiotic yeast that could survive under extreme frozen conditions. The antimicrobial and heat-stable properties of the isolated yeast strains Saccharomyces boulardii (S. boulardii) (KT000032, KT000033, KT000034, KT000035, KT000036, and KT000037) was analyzed and compared with commercial probiotic strains. The results revealed that the tested S. boulardii KT000032 strain showed higher resistance to gastric enzymes (bile salts, pepsin, and pancreatic enzyme) at low pH, with broad antibiotic resistance. In addition, the strain also showed efficient auto-aggregation and co-aggregation abilities and efficient hydrophobicity in the in-vitro and in-vivo C. elegens gut model. Further, the KT000032 strain showed higher antimicrobial efficiency against 13 different enteropathogens and exhibited commensal relationships with five commercial probiotic strains. Besides, the bioactive compounds produced in the cell-free supernatant of probiotic yeast showed thermo-tolerance (95 °C for two hours). Furthermore, the thermo-stable property of the strains will facilitate their incorporation into ready-to-eat food products under extreme food processing conditions.
Development and Application of Healthiness Indicators for Commercial Establishments that Sell Foods for Immediate Consumption
Authors: Tavares Letícia , Perez Patrícia , dos Passos Maria , de Castro Junior Paulo , da Silva Franco Amanda , de Oliveira Cardoso Letícia , de Castro Inês
Published: June 2021

Studies of food environments lack easy-to-apply indicators for their characterization and monitoring. This study aimed to create and assess the applicability of an a priori classification of establishments that sell foods for immediate consumption and to develop and apply indicators for assessment of the establishments’ healthiness. The indicators were grouped by the types of foods sold most frequently at these establishments, according to the extent and purpose of the foods’ industrial processing. Four indicators were developed, based on the availability of unprocessed/minimally processed foods (MPF) and ultra-processed foods (UPF) in the establishments. The classification and indicators were applied to commercial food establishments at two Brazilian universities. Descriptive analyses were performed to characterize the food environment for all the establishments and by university. Two proportion indicators assess the relative availability of subgroups of MPF and UPF. The UPF/MPF ratio expresses the relative advantage/disadvantage of the availability of MPF compared to that of UPF. The Healthiness Index or summary score expresses the availability of MPF and the unavailability of UPF. The classification and indicators present good discriminatory power and are easy to operationalize, interpret, and adapt.
Ergosphere, Photon Region Structure, and the Shadow of a Rotating Charged Weyl Black Hole
Authors: Fathi Mohsen , Olivares Marco , Villanueva José R.
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we explore the photon region and the shadow of the rotating counterpart of a static charged Weyl black hole, which has been previously discussed according to null and time-like geodesics. The rotating black hole shows strong sensitivity to the electric charge and the spin parameter, and its shadow changes from being oblate to being sharp by increasing in the spin parameter. Comparing the calculated vertical angular diameter of the shadow with that of M87*, we found that the latter may possess about 1036 protons as its source of electric charge, if it is a rotating charged Weyl black hole. A complete derivation of the ergosphere and the static limit is also presented.
Lack of Association between Audiogram and Hearing Disability Measures in Mild Cognitive Impairment and Dementia: What Audiogram Does Not Tell You
Authors: Utoomprurkporn Nattawan , Stott Joshua , Costafreda Sergi Gonzalez , Bamiou Doris Eva
Published: June 2021

(1) Introduction: The validity of self-reported hearing disability measures has been assessed using their correlation with the pure-tone average (PTA) hearing loss for non-cognitively impaired adults. However, for people with cognitive impairment, factors in addition to the PTA can play a role in their self-reported difficulties. Patients with cognitive impairment may experience more hearing difficulties due to their brain processing sounds abnormally, irrespective of PTA. (2) Methods: Three groups of hearing aid users who had normal cognition, mild cognitive impairment and dementia were recruited. Self-reported hearing abilities were assessed with the modified Amsterdam inventory for auditory disability (mAIAD) and the speech, spatial and qualities of hearing scale (SSQ). (3) Results: The SSQ and mAIAD scores were highly correlated with each other for all three groups. However, a correlation with objective PTA was found in the normal cognition but not the cognitively impaired groups. Self-reported hearing scores were associated with cognitive scores for the dementia group (4) Discussion: In people with combined cognitive and hearing impairment, PTA alone may be a poor predictor of hearing abilities. Subjective hearing questionnaires together with hearing tests may provide a better understanding of their hearing difficulties.
Analysis of the Content and Comprehensiveness of Dermatology Residency Training Websites in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Po-Yu , Dai Ying-Xiu , Hsu Ya-Chuan , Chen Tzeng-Ji
Published: June 2021

With a growing trend in the popularity of web-based resources, it is important to evaluate residency program websites for providing accurate information for dermatology residency applicants. Little is known about the quality of dermatology residency websites in Taiwan. The aim of the study is to assesses the quality of official websites of dermatology training programs in Taiwan. A literature search for all related studies from inception to 31 July 2020 was performed using PubMed without restriction on language. We used criteria that had 6 domains and 25 items to evaluate 23 official websites of the dermatology training programs in Taiwan from August to September 2020. Of the 23 training programs, only 6 (26%) of the websites met more than half of the criteria. Notably, the items “features of the department” and “comprehensive faculty listing” were included in all websites. The criteria for interview process, board pass rates, social activities and information on the surrounding area were not met by all websites. Evidently, there is much room for improvement for the dermatology training program websites in Taiwan.
Improving the Standard of Care for All—A Practical Guide to Developing a Center of Excellence
Authors: Vivian Elaina , Brooks Mary Rachel , Longoria Raquel , Lundberg Laurie , Mallow Jenifer , Shah Jimmy , Vo Allison , Mejia Alejandro , Tarnasky Paul , Puri Vichin
Published: June 2021

Pancreatic surgery is one of the more challenging procedures performed by surgeons. The operations are technically complex and have historically been accompanied by a substantial risk for mortality and postoperative complications. Other pancreatic pathologies require advanced therapeutic procedures that are highly endoscopist-dependent, requiring specific, knowledge-based training for optimal outcomes. An increase in diagnosed pancreatic pathologies every year reinforces a critical need for experienced surgeons, gastroenterologists/endoscopists, hospitals, and support personnel in the management of complex pancreatic cases and thus, well-designed Centers of Excellence (CoE). In this paper, we outline the framework for a Pancreas CoE across three developmental domains: (1) establishing the foundation; (2) formalizing the program; (3) solidifying the CoE status. This framework can likely be translated to any disease or procedure-specific service-line and facilitate the development of a successful CoE.
Lamin A/C Is Dispensable to Mechanical Repression of Adipogenesis
Authors: Goelzer Matthew , Dudakovic Amel , Olcum Melis , Sen Buer , Ozcivici Engin , Rubin Janet , van Wijnen Andre J. , Uzer Gunes
Published: June 2021

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) maintain the musculoskeletal system by differentiating into multiple lineages, including osteoblasts and adipocytes. Mechanical signals, including strain and low-intensity vibration (LIV), are important regulators of MSC differentiation via control exerted through the cell structure. Lamin A/C is a protein vital to the nuclear architecture that supports chromatin organization and differentiation and contributes to the mechanical integrity of the nucleus. We investigated whether lamin A/C and mechanoresponsiveness are functionally coupled during adipogenesis in MSCs. siRNA depletion of lamin A/C increased the nuclear area, height, and volume and decreased the circularity and stiffness. Lamin A/C depletion significantly decreased markers of adipogenesis (adiponectin, cellular lipid content) as did LIV treatment despite depletion of lamin A/C. Phosphorylation of focal adhesions in response to mechanical challenge was also preserved during loss of lamin A/C. RNA-seq showed no major adipogenic transcriptome changes resulting from LIV treatment, suggesting that LIV regulation of adipogenesis may not occur at the transcriptional level. We observed that during both lamin A/C depletion and LIV, interferon signaling was downregulated, suggesting potentially shared regulatory mechanism elements that could regulate protein translation. We conclude that the mechanoregulation of adipogenesis and the mechanical activation of focal adhesions function independently from those of lamin A/C.
Fetal Zone Steroids and Estrogen Show Sex Specific Effects on Oligodendrocyte Precursor Cells in Response to Oxidative Damage
Authors: Sunny Donna Elizabeth , Hammer Elke , Ittermann Till , Krüger Elisabeth Luise , Hübner Stephanie , Hartmann Michaela Friederike , Wudy Stefan Alexander , Völker Uwe , Heckmann Matthias
Published: June 2021

Oxygen causes white matter damage in preterm infants and male sex is a major risk factor for poor neurological outcome, which speculates the role of steroid hormones in sex-based differences. Preterm birth is accompanied by a drop in 17β-estradiol (E2) and progesterone along with increased levels of fetal zone steroids (FZS). We performed a sex-based analysis on the FZS concentration differences in urine samples collected from preterm and term infants. We show that, in preterm urine samples, the total concentration of FZS, and in particular the 16α-OH-DHEA concentration, is significantly higher in ill female infants as compared to males. Since we previously identified Nup133 as a novel target protein affected by hyperoxia, here we studied the effect of FZS, allopregnanolone (Allo) and E2 on differentiation and Nup133 signaling using mouse-derived primary oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs). We show that the steroids could reverse the effect of hyperoxia-mediated downregulation of Nup133 in cultured male OPCs. The addition of FZS and E2 protected cells from oxidative stress. However, E2, in presence of 16α-OH-DHEA, showed a negative effect on male cells. These results assert the importance of sex-based differences and their potential implications in preterm stress response.
Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles to the Rescue of Renal Injury
Authors: Birtwistle Lucy , Chen Xin-Ming , Pollock Carol
Published: June 2021

Acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are rising in global prevalence and cause significant morbidity for patients. Current treatments are limited to slowing instead of stabilising or reversing disease progression. In this review, we describe mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and their constituents, extracellular vesicles (EVs) as being a novel therapeutic for CKD. MSC-derived EVs (MSC-EVs) are membrane-enclosed particles, including exosomes, which carry genetic information that mimics the phenotype of their cell of origin. MSC-EVs deliver their cargo of mRNA, miRNA, cytokines, and growth factors to target cells as a form of paracrine communication. This genetically reprograms pathophysiological pathways, which are upregulated in renal failure. Since the method of exosome preparation significantly affects the quality and function of MSC-exosomes, this review compares the methodologies for isolating exosomes from MSCs and their role in tissue regeneration. More specifically, it summarises the therapeutic efficacy of MSC-EVs in 60 preclinical animal models of AKI and CKD and the cargo of biomolecules they deliver. MSC-EVs promote tubular proliferation and angiogenesis, and inhibit apoptosis, oxidative stress, inflammation, the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and fibrosis, to alleviate AKI and CKD. By reprogramming these pathophysiological pathways, MSC-EVs can slow or even reverse the progression of AKI to CKD, and therefore offer potential to transform clinical practice.
An FYVE-Domain-Containing Protein, PsFP1, Is Involved in Vegetative Growth, Oxidative Stress Response and Virulence of Phytophthora sojae
Authors: Zhang Jinhui , Du Xiaoran , Zhou Xin , Jin Duo , Miao Jianqiang , Liu Xili
Published: June 2021

Proteins that contain the FYVE zinc-finger domain are recruited to PtdIns3P-containing membranes, participating in numerous biological processes such as membrane trafficking, cytoskeletal regulation, and receptor signaling. However, the genome-wide distribution, evolution, and biological functions of FYVE-containing proteins are rarely reported for oomycetes. By genome mining of Phytophthora sojae, two proteins (PsFP1 and PsFP2) with a combination of the FYVE domain and the PX domain (a major phosphoinositide binding module) were found. To clarify the functions of PsFP1 and PsFP2, the CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene replacement system was used to knock out the two genes respectively. Only heterozygous deletion mutants of PsFP1 were recovered, and the expression level of PsFP1 in the heterozygous knockout transformants was significantly down-regulated. These PsFP1 mutants showed a decrease in mycelial growth and pathogenicity and were more sensitive to hydrogen peroxide. These phenotypes were recovered to the level of wild-type by overexpression PsFP1 gene in the PsFP1 heterozygous knockout transformant. In contrast, deletion of PsFP2 had no significant effect on vegetative growth, asexual and sexual reproduction, pathogenicity, or oxidative stress sensitivity. PsFP1 was primarily localized in vesicle-like structures and both the FYVE and PX domains are important for its localization. Overall, our results indicate that PsFP1 plays an important role in the vegetative growth and virulence of P. sojae.
IPA1 Negatively Regulates Early Rice Seedling Development by Interfering with Starch Metabolism via the GA and WRKY Pathways
Authors: He Yonggang , Zhu Menghao , Li Zhihui , Jiang Shan , He Zijun , Xu Shuang , Chen Xiangsong , Hu Zhongli , Zhang Zhihong
Published: June 2021

Ideal Plant Architecture 1 (IPA1) encodes SQUAMOSA PROMOTER BINDING PROTEIN-LIKE 14 (SPL14) with a pleiotropic effect on regulating rice development and biotic stress responses. To investigate the role of IPA1 in early seedling development, we developed a pair of IPA1/ipal-NILs and found that seed germination and early seedling growth were retarded in the ipa1-NIL. Analysis of the soluble sugar content, activity of amylase, and expression of the α-amylase genes revealed that the starch metabolism was weakened in the ipa1-NIL germinating seeds. Additionally, the content of bioactive gibberellin (GA) was significantly lower than that in the IPA1-NIL seeds at 48 h of imbibition. Meanwhile, the expression of GA synthesis-related gene OsGA20ox1 was downregulated, whereas the expression of GA inactivation-related genes was upregulated in ipa1-NIL seeds. In addition, the expression of OsWRKY51 and OsWRKY71 was significantly upregulated in ipa1-NIL seeds. Using transient dual-luciferase and yeast one-hybrid assays, IPA1 was found to directly activate the expression of OsWRKY51 and OsWRKY71, which would interfere with the binding affinity of GA-induced transcription factor OsGAMYB to inhibit the expression of α-amylase genes. In summary, our results suggest that IPA1 negatively regulates seed germination and early seedling growth by interfering with starch metabolism via the GA and WRKY pathways.
MircroRNA Profiles of Early Rice Inflorescence Revealed a Specific miRNA5506 Regulating Development of Floral Organs and Female Megagametophyte in Rice
Authors: Chen Zhixiong , Li Yajing , Li Peigang , Huang Xiaojie , Chen Mingxin , Wu Jinwen , Wang Lang , Liu Xiangdong , Li Yajuan
Published: June 2021

The developmental process of inflorescence and gametophytes is vital for sexual reproduction in rice. Multiple genes and conserved miRNAs have been characterized to regulate the process. The changes of miRNAs expression during the early development of rice inflorescence remain unknown. In this study, the analysis of miRNAs profiles in the early stage of rice inflorescence development identified 671 miRNAs, including 67 known and 44 novel differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs). Six distinct clusters of miRNAs expression patterns were detected, and Cluster 5 comprised 110 DEMs, including unconserved, rice-specific osa-miR5506. Overexpression of osa-miR5506 caused pleiotropic abnormalities, including over- or under-developed palea, various numbers of floral organs and spikelet indeterminacy. In addition, the defects of ovaries development were frequently characterized by multiple megasporocytes, ovule-free ovary, megasporocyte degenerated and embryo sac degenerated in the transgenic lines. osa-miR5506 targeted REM transcription factor LOC_Os03g11370. Summarily, these results demonstrated that rice-specific osa-miR5506 plays an essential role in the regulation of floral organ number, spikelet determinacy and female gametophyte development in rice.
Electrophysiology of hiPSC-Cardiomyocytes Co-Cultured with HEK Cells Expressing the Inward Rectifier Channel
Authors: Costa Ana Da Silva , Mortensen Peter , Hortigon-Vinagre Maria P. , van der Heyden Marcel A. G. , Burton Francis L. , Gao Hao , Simitev Radostin D. , Smith Godfrey L.
Published: June 2021

The immature electrophysiology of human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiCMs) complicates their use for therapeutic and pharmacological purposes. An insufficient inward rectifying current (IK1) and the presence of a funny current (if) cause spontaneous electrical activity. This study tests the hypothesis that the co-culturing of hiCMs with a human embryonic kidney (HEK) cell-line expressing the Kir2.1 channel (HEK-IK1) can generate an electrical syncytium with an adult-like cardiac electrophysiology. The mechanical activity of co-cultures using different HEK-IK1:hiCM ratios was compared with co-cultures using wildtype (HEK–WT:hiCM) or hiCM alone on days 3–8 after plating. Only ratios of 1:3 and 1:1 showed a significant reduction in spontaneous rate at days 4 and 6, suggesting that IK1 was influencing the electrophysiology. Detailed analysis at day 4 revealed an increased incidence of quiescent wells or sub-areas. Electrical activity showed a decreased action potential duration (APD) at 20% and 50%, but not at 90%, alongside a reduced amplitude of the aggregate AP signal. A computational model of the 1:1 co-culture replicates the electrophysiological effects of HEK–WT. The addition of the IK1 conductance reduced the spontaneous rate and APD20, 50 and 90, and minor variation in the intercellular conductance caused quiescence. In conclusion, a 1:1 co-culture HEK-IK1:hiCM caused changes in electrophysiology and spontaneous activity consistent with the integration of IK1 into the electrical syncytium. However, the additional electrical effects of the HEK cell at 1:1 increased the possibility of electrical quiescence before sufficient IK1 was integrated into the syncytium.
The Unusual Role of Pro in Cu(II) Binding by His2-Cyclopentapeptide
Authors: Pieniężna Aleksandra , Kotynia Aleksandra , Brasuń Justyna
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we present findings from studying the interaction of copper(II) ions with the His2-cyclopentapeptide and the role of proline used for the purpose of potentiometric titration and UV-Vis, CD and EPR spectroscopic measurements. Experiments of two homodetic peptides differing by one amino acid residue were conducted for a ligand to metal ratio of 1:1 in the pH range 2.5–11.0. The presented studies reveal that peptides form only mononuclear complexes, and the CuH2L complex appears in the system first (for both L1 and L2). Study results show that the presence of Pro influences the structure of formed complexes and their stabilities and has a strong impact on the efficiency of copper(II) coordination.
Skeletal System Biology and Smoke Damage: From Basic Science to Medical Clinic
Authors: Tarantino Umberto , Cariati Ida , Greggi Chiara , Gasbarra Elena , Belluati Alberto , Ciolli Luigi , Maccauro Giulio , Momoli Alberto , Ripanti Simone , Falez Francesco , Brandi Maria Luisa
Published: June 2021

Cigarette smoking has a negative impact on the skeletal system, as it reduces bone mass and increases fracture risk through its direct or indirect effects on bone remodeling. Recent evidence demonstrates that smoking causes an imbalance in bone turnover, making bone vulnerable to osteoporosis and fragility fractures. Moreover, cigarette smoking is known to have deleterious effects on fracture healing, as a positive correlation between the daily number of cigarettes smoked and years of exposure has been shown, even though the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. It is also well known that smoking causes several medical/surgical complications responsible for longer hospital stays and a consequent increase in the consumption of resources. Smoking cessation is, therefore, highly advisable to prevent the onset of bone metabolic disease. However, even with cessation, some of the consequences appear to continue for decades afterwards. Based on this evidence, the aim of our review was to evaluate the impact of smoking on the skeletal system, especially on bone fractures, and to identify the pathophysiological mechanisms responsible for the impairment of fracture healing. Since smoking is a major public health concern, understanding the association between cigarette smoking and the occurrence of bone disease is necessary in order to identify potential new targets for intervention.
Targeting Mitochondria in Diabetes
Authors: Krako Jakovljevic Nina , Pavlovic Kasja , Jotic Aleksandra , Lalic Katarina , Stoiljkovic Milica , Lukic Ljiljana , Milicic Tanja , Macesic Marija , Stanarcic Gajovic Jelena , Lalic Nebojsa M.
Published: June 2021

Type 2 diabetes (T2D), one of the most prevalent noncommunicable diseases, is often preceded by insulin resistance (IR), which underlies the inability of tissues to respond to insulin and leads to disturbed metabolic homeostasis. Mitochondria, as a central player in the cellular energy metabolism, are involved in the mechanisms of IR and T2D. Mitochondrial function is affected by insulin resistance in different tissues, among which skeletal muscle and liver have the highest impact on whole-body glucose homeostasis. This review focuses on human studies that assess mitochondrial function in liver, muscle and blood cells in the context of T2D. Furthermore, different interventions targeting mitochondria in IR and T2D are listed, with a selection of studies using respirometry as a measure of mitochondrial function, for better data comparison. Altogether, mitochondrial respiratory capacity appears to be a metabolic indicator since it decreases as the disease progresses but increases after lifestyle (exercise) and pharmacological interventions, together with the improvement in metabolic health. Finally, novel therapeutics developed to target mitochondria have potential for a more integrative therapeutic approach, treating both causative and secondary defects of diabetes.
Glutaric Aciduria Type I Missed by Newborn Screening: Report of Four Cases from Three Families
Authors: Spenger Johannes , Maier Esther , Wechselberger Katharina , Bauder Florian , Kocher Melanie , Sperl Wolfgang , Preisel Martin , Schiergens Katharina , Konstantopoulou Vassiliki , Röschinger Wulf , Häberle Johannes , Schmitt-Mechelke Thomas , Wortmann Saskia , Fingerhut Ralph
Published: June 2021

Glutaric aciduria type I (GA-1) is a rare autosomal-recessive disorder of the degradation of the amino acids lysine and tryptophan caused by mutations of the GCDH gene encoding glutaryl-CoA-dehydrogenase. Newborn screening (NBS) for this condition is based on elevated levels of glutarylcarnitine (C5DC) in dried blood spots (DBS). Here we report four cases from three families in whom a correctly performed NBS did not detect the condition. Glutarylcarnitine concentrations were either normal (slightly below) or slightly above the cut-off. Ratios to other acylcarnitines were also not persistently elevated. Therefore, three cases were defined as screen negative, and one case was defined as normal, after a normal control DBS sample. One patient was diagnosed after an acute encephalopathic crisis, and the other three patients had an insidious onset of the disease. GA-1 was genetically confirmed in all cases. Despite extensive efforts to increase sensitivity and specificity of NBS for GA-1, by adjusting cut-offs and introducing various ratios, the biological diversity still leads to false-negative NBS results for GA-1.
Study of the Effect of the A206/1.0 wt. % γAl2O3 Nanocomposites Content on the Portevin-Le Chatelier Phenomenon in Al/0.5 wt. % Mg Alloys
Authors: Florián-Algarín David , Li Xiaochun , Choi Hongseok , Suárez Oscar
Published: June 2021

The Portevin-Le Chatelier (PLC) phenomenon or dynamic strain aging in Al–0.5 wt. % Mg alloys was investigated at different strain rates. This research also examined the effect of γAl2O3 nanoparticles on the PLC phenomenon. A nanocomposite made of A206/1.0 wt. % γAl2O3 was manufactured to this purpose and then, added to an Al–0.5 wt. % Mg melt to obtain ingots of Al–0.5 wt. % Mg–20 wt. % A206/1.0 wt. % γAl2O3 and Al–0.5 wt. % Mg–10 wt. % A206/1.0 wt. % γAl2O3 with 6 mm diameter. Cold deformation allowed manufacturing 1 mm diameter wires using the 6 mm diameter ingots. A 300 °C solution treatment, followed by rapid cooling in ice water permitted to retain Mg atoms in solid solution. The tensile tests performed on the wires revealed the PLC phenomenon upon the tensile stress vs. strain plastic zone. The phenomenon was quantified using MatLab™ and statistical analysis. The results demonstrated how the alumina nanoparticles can diminish the serration amplitude of the PLC phenomenon.
The Expression of Transcription Factors in Fetal Lamb Kidney
Authors: Nishiya Yuri , Kawaguchi Kohei , Kudo Kosuke , Kawaguchi Takuya , Obayashi Juma , Tanaka Kunihide , Ohyama Kei , Nagae Hideki , Furuta Shigeyuki , Seki Yasuji , Koike Junki , Pringle Kevin C. , Kitagawa Hiroaki
Published: June 2021

(1) Background: Renal development involves frequent expression and loss of transcription factors, resulting in the activation of genes. Wilms’ tumor 1 (WT1), hepatocyte nuclear factor-1-beta (HNF1β), and paired box genes 2 and 8 (Pax2 and Pax8) play an important role in renal development. With this in vivo study, we examined the period and location of expression of these factors in renal development. (2) Methods: Fetal lamb kidneys (50 days from gestation to term) and adult ewe kidneys were evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin staining. Serial sections were subjected to immunohistochemistry for WT1, HNF1β, Pax2, and Pax8. (3) Results: Pax2, Pax8, and HNF1β expression was observed in the ureteric bud and collecting duct epithelial cells. We observed expression of WT1 alone in metanephric mesenchymal cells, glomerular epithelial cells, and interstitial cells in the medullary rays and Pax8 and HNF1β expression in tubular epithelial cells. WT1 was highly expressed in cells more proximal to the medulla in renal vesicles and in C- and S-shaped bodies. Pax2 was expressed in the middle and peripheral regions, and HNF1β in cells in the region in the middle of these. (4) Conclusions: WT1 is involved in nephron development. Pax2, Pax8, and HNF1β are involved in nephron maturation and the formation of peripheral collecting ducts from the Wolffian duct.
Comparing Stacking Ensemble Techniques to Improve Musculoskeletal Fracture Image Classification
Authors: Kandel Ibrahem , Castelli Mauro , Popovič Aleš
Published: June 2021

Bone fractures are among the main reasons for emergency room admittance and require a rapid response from doctors. Bone fractures can be severe and can lead to permanent disability if not treated correctly and rapidly. Using X-ray imaging in the emergency room to detect fractures is a challenging task that requires an experienced radiologist, a specialist who is not always available. The availability of an automatic tool for image classification can provide a second opinion for doctors operating in the emergency room and reduce the error rate in diagnosis. This study aims to increase the existing state-of-the-art convolutional neural networks’ performance by using various ensemble techniques. In this approach, different CNNs (Convolutional Neural Networks) are used to classify the images; rather than choosing the best one, a stacking ensemble provides a more reliable and robust classifier. The ensemble model outperforms the results of individual CNNs by an average of 10%.
Cavitation and Induced Excitation Force of Ice-Class Propeller Blocked by Ice
Authors: Xu Pei , Wang Chao , Ye Liyu , Guo Chunyu , Xiong Weipeng , Wu Shen
Published: June 2021

The presence of broken ice in the flow field around a propeller causes severe blade erosion, shafting, and hull vibration. This study investigates the performance of the propeller of a ship sailing in the polar regions under the propeller–ice non-contact condition. To this end, we construct a test platform for the propeller-induced excitation force due to ice blockage in a large circulating water channel. The hydrodynamic load of the propeller, and the cavitation and propeller-induced fluctuating pressure, were measured and observed by varying the cavitation number and ice–propeller axial distance under atmospheric pressure and decompression conditions. The results show that the fluctuation range of the blade load increases with a decrease in cavitation number and ice–propeller axial distance. The decrease in the cavitation number leads to broadband characteristics in the frequency-domain curves of the propeller thrust coefficient and blade-bearing force. Under the combined effects of ice blockage and proximity, propeller suction, the circumfluence zone around the ice, and the Pirouette effect, propeller–hull vortex cavitation is generated between the ice and propeller. The decrease in cavitation number leads to a sharp increase in the amplitude of the high-order frequency of the propeller-induced fluctuating pressure.
Managing and Reforesting Degraded Post-Mining Landscape in Indonesia: A Review
Authors: Pratiwi  , Narendra Budi H. , Siregar Chairil A. , Turjaman Maman , Hidayat Asep , Rachmat Henti H. , Mulyanto Budi , Suwardi  , Iskandar  , Maharani Rizki , Rayadin Yaya , Prayudyaningsih Retno , Yuwati Tri Wira , Prematuri Ricksy , Susilowati Arida
Published: June 2021

Tropical forests are among the most diverse ecosystems in the world, completed by huge biodiversity. An expansion in natural resource extraction through open-pit mining activities leads to increasing land and tropical forest degradation. Proper science-based practices are needed as an effort to reclaim their function. This paper summarizes the existing practice of coal mining, covering the regulatory aspects and their reclamation obligations, the practices of coal mining from various sites with different land characteristics, and the reclamation efforts of the post-mining landscapes in Indonesia. The regulations issued accommodate the difference between mining land inside the forest area and outside the forest area, especially in the aspect of the permit authority and in evaluating the success rate of reclamation. In coal-mining practices, this paper describes starting from land clearing activities and followed by storing soil layers and overburden materials. In this step, proper handling of potentially acid-forming materials is crucial to prevent acid mine drainage. At the reclamation stage, this paper sequentially presents research results and the field applications in rearranging the overburden and soil materials, controlling acid mine drainage and erosion, and managing the drainage system, settling ponds, and pit lakes. Many efforts to reclaim post-coal-mining lands and their success rate have been reported and highlighted. Several success stories describe that post-coal-mining lands can be returned to forests that provide ecosystem services and goods. A set of science-based best management practices for post-coal-mine reforestation is needed to develop to promote the success of forest reclamation and restoration in post-coal-mining lands through the planting of high-value hardwood trees, increasing trees’ survival rates and growth, and accelerating the establishment of forest habitat through the application of proper tree planting technique. The monitoring and evaluation aspect is also crucial, as corrective action may be taken considering the different success rates for different site characteristics.