bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Controls on Pore Structures and Permeability of Tight Gas Reservoirs in the Xujiaweizi Rift, Northern Songliao Basin
Authors: Zhang Luchuan , Jiang Shu , Xiao Dianshi , Lu Shuangfang , Zhang Ren , Chen Guohui , Qin Yinglun , Sun Yonghe
Published: October 2020

As significant components of tight gas reservoirs, clay minerals with ultrafine dimensions play a crucial role in controlling pore structures and permeability. XRD (X-ray diffraction), SEM (scanning electron microscopy), N2GA (nitrogen gas adsorption), and RMIP (rate-controlled mercury injection porosimetry) experiments were executed to uncover the effects of clay minerals on pore structures and the permeability of tight gas reservoirs, taking tight rock samples collected from the Lower Cretaceous Dengloukou and Shahezi Formations in the Xujiaweizi Rift of the northern Songliao Basin as an example. The results show that the pore space of tight gas reservoirs primarily comprises intragranular-dominant pore networks and intergranular-dominant pore networks according to fractal theory and mercury intrusion features. The former is interpreted as a conventional pore-throat structure where large pores are connected by wide throats, mainly consisting of intergranular pores and dissolution pores, and the latter corresponds to a tree-like pore structure in which the narrower throats are connected to the upper-level wider throats like tree branches, primarily constituting intercrystalline pores within clay minerals. Intragranular-dominant pore networks contribute more to total pore space, with a proportion of 57.79%–90.56%, averaging 72.55%. However, intergranular-dominant pores make more contribution to permeability of tight gas reservoirs, with a percentage of 62.73%–93.40%. The intragranular-dominant pore networks gradually evolve from intergranular-dominant pore networks as rising clay mineral content, especially authigenic chlorite, and this process has limited effect on the total pore space but can evidently lower permeability. The specific surface area (SSA) of tight gas reservoirs is primarily derived from clay minerals, in the order of I/S (mixed-layer illite/smectite) > chlorite > illite > framework minerals. The impact of clay minerals on pore structures of tight gas reservoirs is correlated to their types, owing to different dispersed models and morphologies, and chlorite has more strict control on the reduction of throat radius of tight rocks.
A Review about the Modeling and Simulation of Electro-Quasistatic Fields in HVDC Cable Systems
Authors: Jörgens Christoph , Clemens Markus
Published: October 2020

In comparison to high-voltage alternating current (HVAC) cable systems, high-voltage direct current (HVDC) systems have several advantages, e.g., the transmitted power or long-distance transmission. The insulating materials feature a non-linear dependency on the electric field and the temperature. Applying a constant voltage, space charges accumulate in the insulation and yield a slowly time-varying electric field. As a complement to measurements, numerical simulations are used to obtain the electric field distribution inside the insulation. The simulation results can be used to design HVDC cable components such that possible failure can be avoided. This work is a review about the simulation of the time-varying electric field in HVDC cable components, using conductivity-based cable models. The effective mechanisms and descriptions of charge movement result in different conductivity models. The corresponding simulation results of the models are compared against measurements and analytic approximations. Different numerical techniques show variations of the accuracy and the computation time that are compared. Coupled electro-thermal field simulations are applied to consider the environment and its effect on the resulting electric field distribution. A special case of an electro-quasistatic field describes the drying process of soil, resulting from the temperature and electric field. The effect of electro-osmosis at HVDC ground electrodes is considered within this model.
Enzymatic Esterification as Potential Strategy to Enhance the Sorbic Acid Behavior as Food and Beverage Preservative
Authors: Zappaterra Federico , Summa Daniela , Semeraro Bruno , Buzzi Raissa , Trapella Claudio , Ladero Miguel , Costa Stefania , Tamburini Elena
Published: October 2020

Sorbic acid is the most commonly used preservative in the food industry. The antimicrobial inhibition of sorbic acid could be influenced by its lipophilic nature, which reduces its use in hydrophilic food formulations. Reactions between sorbic acid and glycerol catalyzed by lipases were studied in order to develop a novel sorbic acid derivate with a promising hydrophilic profile. The esterification reaction between sorbic acid and glycerol in a solvent-free system were performed with an immobilized lipase B from Candida antarctica (CALB). The glycerol sorbate product has been tested against S. griseus bacterium and Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast. Results indicate that the esterification of sorbic acid with glycerol does improve its antimicrobial properties against Saccharomyces cerevisie. The reported results demonstrate that esterification can be used as a strategy to improve the antimicrobial activity of sorbic acid.
Proteomic Insights into the Biology of the Most Important Foodborne Parasites in Europe
Authors: Stryiński Robert , Łopieńska-Biernat Elżbieta , Carrera Mónica
Published: October 2020

Foodborne parasitoses compared with bacterial and viral-caused diseases seem to be neglected, and their unrecognition is a serious issue. Parasitic diseases transmitted by food are currently becoming more common. Constantly changing eating habits, new culinary trends, and easier access to food make foodborne parasites’ transmission effortless, and the increase in the diagnosis of foodborne parasitic diseases in noted worldwide. This work presents the applications of numerous proteomic methods into the studies on foodborne parasites and their possible use in targeted diagnostics. Potential directions for the future are also provided.
Reply to Comment on Huang, X., et al. “Sourdough Fermentation Degrades Wheat Alpha-Amylase/Trypsin Inhibitor (ATI) and Reduces Pro-Inflammatory Activity”. Foods 2020, 9, 943
Authors: Huang Xin , Gänzle Michael , Loponen Jussi , Schuppan Detlef
Published: October 2020

We thank Dr [...]
OneStopRNAseq: A Web Application for Comprehensive and Efficient Analyses of RNA-Seq Data
Authors: Li Rui , Hu Kai , Liu Haibo , Green Michael R. , Zhu Lihua Julie
Published: October 2020

Over the past decade, a large amount of RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) data were deposited in public repositories, and more are being produced at an unprecedented rate. However, there are few open source tools with point-and-click interfaces that are versatile and offer streamlined comprehensive analysis of RNA-seq datasets. To maximize the capitalization of these vast public resources and facilitate the analysis of RNA-seq data by biologists, we developed a web application called OneStopRNAseq for the one-stop analysis of RNA-seq data. OneStopRNAseq has user-friendly interfaces and offers workflows for common types of RNA-seq data analyses, such as comprehensive data-quality control, differential analysis of gene expression, exon usage, alternative splicing, transposable element expression, allele-specific gene expression quantification, and gene set enrichment analysis. Users only need to select the desired analyses and genome build, and provide a Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) accession number or Dropbox links to sequence files, alignment files, gene-expression-count tables, or rank files with the corresponding metadata. Our pipeline facilitates the comprehensive and efficient analysis of private and public RNA-seq data.
Tectono-Sedimentary Evolution of the Cenozoic Basins in the Eastern External Betic Zone (SE Spain)
Authors: Martín-Martín Manuel , Guerrera Francesco , Tramontana Mario
Published: October 2020

Four main unconformities (1–4) were recognized in the sedimentary record of the Cenozoic basins of the eastern External Betic Zone (SE, Spain). They are located at different stratigraphic levels, as follows: (1) Cretaceous-Paleogene boundary, even if this unconformity was also recorded at the early Paleocene (Murcia sector) and early Eocene (Alicante sector), (2) Eocene-Oligocene boundary, quite synchronous, in the whole considered area, (3) early Burdigalian, quite synchronous (recognized in the Murcia sector) and (4) Middle Tortonian (recognized in Murcia and Alicante sectors). These unconformities correspond to stratigraphic gaps of different temporal extensions and with different controls (tectonic or eustatic), which allowed recognizing minor sedimentary cycles in the Paleocene–Miocene time span. The Cenozoic marine sedimentation started over the oldest unconformity (i.e., the principal one), above the Mesozoic marine deposits. Paleocene-Eocene sedimentation shows numerous tectofacies (such as: turbidites, slumps, olistostromes, mega-olistostromes and pillow-beds) interpreted as related to an early, blind and deep-seated tectonic activity, acting in the more internal subdomains of the External Betic Zone as a result of the geodynamic processes related to the evolution of the westernmost branch of the Tethys. The second unconformity resulted from an Oligocene to Aquitanian sedimentary evolution in the Murcia Sector from marine realms to continental environments. This last time interval is characterized as the previous one by a gentle tectonic activity. On the other hand, the Miocene sedimentation was totally controlled by the development of superficial thrusts and/or strike-slip faults zones, both related to the regional geodynamic evolutionary framework linked to the Mediterranean opening. These strike-slip faults zones created subsidence areas (pull-apart basin-type) and affected the sedimentation lying above the third unconformity. By contrast, the subsidence areas were bounded by structural highs affected by thrusts and folds. After the third unconformity, the Burdigalian-Serravallian sedimentation occurred mainly in shallow- to deep-water marine environments (Tap Fm). During the Late Miocene, after the fourth unconformity, the activation of the strike-slip faults zones caused a shallow marine environment sedimentation in the Murcia sector and a continental (lacustrine and fluvial) deposition in the Alicante sector represented the latter, resulting in alluvial fan deposits. Furthermore, the location of these fans changed over time according to the activation of faults responsible for the tectonic rising of Triassic salt deposits, which fed the fan themselves.
Long-Term HbA1c, Physical Fitness, Nerve Conduction Velocities, and Quality of Life in Children with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus—A Pilot Study
Authors: Schiller Katharina , Kofler Markus , Frühwirth Martin , Fantur Michaela , Rauchenzauner Markus
Published: October 2020

Objective: The aim of this study was to examine a possible association of HbA1c, quality of life (QoL), fitness, and electrophysiological parameters in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Methods: The study population (n = 34) consisted of patients with T1DM (n = 17) and an age-, sex-, and BMI-matched healthy control group (n = 17). HbA1c was obtained from patients with T1DM at time of diagnosis (T0), at 6 months (T6), at 12 months (T12), and at time of study inclusion (Tstudy). QoL was determined with a standardized questionnaire (KINDL-R). All children completed a 6-min walk test (6MWT) to evaluate their fitness level. Electrodiagnostic studies established upper and lower limb motor and sensory nerve conduction velocities (NCV). Results: Higher HbA1c (Tstudy) was associated with lower QoL showing in the subscales self-esteem, friends, and school. Higher HbA1c at (T6) and (T12) was associated with lower QoL in the subscale self-esteem. Based on various subscales, perceived problem areas differed significantly between children and their parents. No differences in fitness level and NCV were found between patients and controls except for a significantly slower median motor NCV in patients. HbA1c was not associated with NCVs at this early stage of disease. Conclusions: Good metabolic control reflected by adequate HbA1c values seems to be important for a good QoL in children with T1DM. Early HbA1c might be associated with QoL during follow-up.
Land–Ocean–Atmosphere Influences on Groundwater Variability in the South Atlantic–Gulf Region
Authors: Joshi Neekita , Kalra Ajay , Lamb Kenneth W.
Published: October 2020

Climate association between Groundwater Storage (GWS) and sea level changes have been missing from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, demanding a requisite study of their linkage and responses. Variability in the Hydrologic Unit Code—03 region, i.e., one of the major U.S. watersheds in the southeast caused by Sea Surface Temperature (SST) variability in the Pacific and Atlantic Ocean, was identified. Furthermore, the SST regions were identified to assess its relationship with GWS, sea level, precipitation, and terrestrial water storage. Temporal and spatial variability were obtained utilizing the singular value decomposition statistical method. A gridded GWS anomaly from the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) was used to understand the relationship with sea level and SST. The negative pockets of SST were negatively linked with GWS. The identification of teleconnections with groundwater may substantiate temporal patterns of groundwater variability. The results confirmed that the SST regions exhibited El Niño Southern Oscillation patterns, resulting in GWS changes. Moreover, a positive correlation between GWS and sea level was observed on the east coast in contrast to the southwestern United States. The findings highlight the importance of climate-driven changes in groundwater attributing changes in sea level. Therefore, SST could be a good predictor, possibly utilized for prior assessment of variabilities plus groundwater forecasting.
Material Flows and Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Potential of Decentralized Composting in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Case Study in Tiassalé, Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Yeo Dotanhan , Dongo Kouassi , Mertenat Adeline , Lüssenhop Phillipp , Körner Ina , Zurbrügg Christian
Published: October 2020

Despite many composting initiatives implemented in recent years throughout Sub-Saharan Africa, there is yet a lack of data on material flows and the potential contribution of decentralized composting towards greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation. This study fills this gap assessing flows, emissions reduction and other environmental benefits of decentralized composting, based on a pilot composting facility implemented in the municipality of Tiassalé in Côte d’Ivoire. Primary data collected at the site were visualized with the STAN version 2.6 software developed at the Vienna University of Technology (Austria), for material flows, while carbon emissions reduction was estimated using the UNFCCC methods. Results show that in 2017, from the 59.4 metric tons of organic waste processed by this pilot station, 14.2 metric tons of mature compost was produced, which correspond to 24% of the input mass (on wet weight basis). On dry weight basis, mature compost represents 36% of the input mass. The nutrient content of the compost is in line with data from literature on sub-Saharan African compost, and heavy metal contamination fulfils both French and German compost standards. Concerning the GHG emissions reduction potential, the results show that with this composting scenario, 87% of the baseline emissions occurring in open dumping can be avoided.
Relationship between Insufficient Sleep and Bad Breath in Korean Adolescent Population
Authors: Do Kyung-Yi
Published: October 2020

This cross-sectional study sought to evaluate the association between insufficient sleep and bad breath among Korean adolescent population. It was based on the 13th Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-Based Survey (2017). From 64,991 participants (aged 13–18 years), the final participation rate in the survey was 95.8% (62,276 participants; 31,624 boys and 30,652 girls). A complex sample logistic regression was performed to identify the relationship between insufficient sleep and halitosis, after adjusting for all covariates. In Model II for estimating the adjusted odds ratio (AOR) for general characteristics, students who answered “not at all sufficient”, indicating insufficient sleep, were at higher risk of bad breath than those who answered “completely sufficient” (AOR = 2.09, 95% confidence interval, CI = 1.91–2.30). In Model III, for estimating the AOR adjusted for all covariates, students who answered “not at all sufficient”, indicating insufficient sleep, were at higher risk of bad breath than those who answered “completely sufficient” (AOR = 1.47, 95% CI = 1.33–1.83). It is necessary for families and schools to have health education lessons that recognize insufficient sleep among adolescents may be a cause of bad breath and therefore optimal sleeping habits and oral health behaviors should be promoted.
Effects of Moderate Combined Resistance- and Aerobic-Exercise for 12 Weeks on Body Composition, Cardiometabolic Risk Factors, Blood Pressure, Arterial Stiffness, and Physical Functions, among Obese Older Men: A Pilot Study
Authors: Park Wonil , Jung Won-Sang , Hong Kwangseok , Kim Yae-Young , Kim Sung-Woo , Park Hun-Young
Published: October 2020

We demonstrated the hypothesis that combined exercise improves body composition, cardiometabolic risk factors, blood pressure (BP), arterial stiffness, and physical functions, in obese older men. Older men (n = 20) were randomly assigned to combined exercise training (EXP; n = 10) or control groups (CON; n = 10). The combined exercise was comprised of elastic-band resistance training and walking/running on a treadmill and bicycle at 60–70% of maximal heart rate for 3 days/weeks. EXP showed significant decreases in body weight, body mass index, and %body fat (p < 0.05). The exercise program significantly reduced BP, mean arterial pressure, pulse pressure, and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity. Furthermore, while the plasma levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and epinephrine were significantly reduced in EXP, VO2 peak and grip strength were significantly enhanced (p < 0.05). In conclusion, it is indicated that 12-week regular combined exercise improves body composition, cardiometabolic risk factors, hemodynamics, and physical performance in obese older men.
Female Sexual Function and Its Association with the Severity of Menopause-Related Symptoms
Authors: Pérez-Herrezuelo Isabel , Aibar-Almazán Agustín , Martínez-Amat Antonio , Fábrega-Cuadros Raquel , Díaz-Mohedo Esther , Wangensteen Rosemary , Hita-Contreras Fidel
Published: October 2020

The aim of this study was to examine female sexual functioning and its association with the impact of the symptoms of menopause among Spanish postmenopausal women. A total of 182 postmenopausal women (65.59 ± 7.93 years) participated in this cross-sectional study. The female sexual function index (FSFI) and the menopause rating scale (MRS) were used to analyze sexual function and severity of menopausal symptoms, respectively. Age, education, area of residence, occupation, and depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale) were considered as possible confounders. The results of a linear multivariate regression analysis showed that the severity of urogenital menopause-related symptoms was associated with lower values in the FSFI total score and the lubrication, satisfaction, arousal, and orgasm domains. These last three subscales were also linked to severe psychological impact, while the MRS total score was only related to the desire domain. Regarding confounders, being younger, working, and residing in a rural area were all linked to better sexual function. All effect sizes were large (adjusted R2 > 0.35). In conclusion, after controlling for possible confounders, postmenopausal women who experience a severe impact of menopausal symptoms endure poorer sexual function, particularly when said symptoms are urogenital or psychological in nature.
Farmers’ Knowledge, Attitude, and Adoption of Smart Agriculture Technology in Taiwan
Authors: Chuang Jui-Hsiung , Wang Jiun-Hao , Liou Yu-Chang
Published: October 2020

Climate change and food security are critical topics in sustainable agricultural development. The climate-smart agriculture initiative proposed by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations has attracted international attention. Smart agriculture (SA) has since been recognized as an influential trend contributing to agricultural development. Therefore, encouraging farmers to adopt digital technologies and mobile devices in farming practices has become a policy priority worldwide. However, the literature on the psychological factors driving farmers’ intentions to adopt SA technologies remains limited. This study investigated how farmers’ knowledge and attitudes regarding SA affect their adoption of smart technologies in Taiwan. A total of 321 farmers participated in a survey in 2017 and 2018, and the data were used to construct an ordinary least squares regression model of SA adoption. This study provides a preliminary understanding of the relationship between psychological factors and innovation adoption of SA technologies in a small-scale farming economic context. The findings suggest that policymakers and research and development institutes should concentrate on improving market access to established and critical SA technologies.
The Beneficial Effects of Short-Term Exposure to Scuba Diving on Human Mental Health
Authors: Carreño Arnau , Gascon Mireia , Vert Cristina , Lloret Josep
Published: October 2020

Exposure to outdoor blue spaces can help improve human health by reducing stress, promoting social relationships, and physical activity. While most studies have focused on the adverse health effects of scuba diving, very few have assessed its health benefits. Moreover, when scuba diving is done in large groups with no diving instructor or pre-dive briefing, negative environmental impacts are generated and negative impacts on human health may also occur due to overcrowding, which may create stress. This is the first study to evaluate the effects of scuba diving on divers’ mental health using their diving practices to estimate the impacts on the ecosystem. In the marine-protected area of Cap de Creus and adjacent areas, we assessed the mental health of 176 divers and 70 beach users (control group) by employing a 29-item version of Profile of Mood State (POMS) questionnaires. According to the parameters associated with reduced environmental impacts, two scuba diving experiences were established. Poisson regression models were performed to assess both the contribution of the activity and diving experiences to POMS scores. Both groups (scuba divers and beach goers) reduced their POMS scores after carrying out the activities. Although no significant differences were found between beach and scuba diving activities, nor between the two different scuba diving experiences, our results showed that subjects with regular medication intake due to a chronic or psychiatric illness had a POMS reduction score significantly higher than other subjects. We conclude that both beach and scuba diving activities have positive effects for human mental health, particularly among subjects with regular medication intake.
Emotional and Behavioral Consequences of the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Role of Health Anxiety, Intolerance of Uncertainty, and Distress (In)Tolerance
Authors: Sauer Karoline S. , Jungmann Stefanie M. , Witthöft Michael
Published: October 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic represents a worldwide threat to mental health. To optimize the allocation of health care resources, research on specific vulnerability factors, such as health anxiety, intolerance of uncertainty, and distress (in)tolerance, and particularly their effect on the time course of SARS-CoV-2 related anxiety appears crucial for supporting high risk groups suffering from elevated mental distress during the pandemic. N = 887 participants (78.4% female; Mage = 38.15, SD = 17.04) completed an online survey in Germany (April to mid-May 2020), comprising measures of SARS-CoV-2 related anxiety, health anxiety, safety and preventive behavior, intolerance of uncertainty, and distress intolerance. Higher levels of health anxiety pre and during COVID-19 were associated with an initially intensified increase (b = 1.10, p < 0.001), but later on a more rapid dampening (b = −0.18, p < 0.001) of SARS-CoV-2 related anxiety. SARS-CoV-2 related preventive behavior was intensified by both pre (b = 0.06, p = 0.01) and during (b = 0.15, p < 0.001) COVID-19 health anxiety, while reassurance behavior only was associated with health anxiety during COVID-19 (b = 0.14, p < 0.001). Distress intolerance and intolerance of uncertainty did not moderate the relationship between health anxiety and SARS-CoV-2 related anxiety and behavior. The results suggest detrimental effects of health anxiety on the emotional and behavioral response to virus outbreaks.
Does Maternal Depression Undermine Childhood Cognitive Development? Evidence from the Young Lives Survey in Peru
Authors: Bendini Magdalena , Dinarte Lelys
Published: October 2020

This paper studies the effect of maternal depression on early childhood cognition in Peru, where rates of depression are around 50%. By using an instrumental variables approach, this study exploits variation in the exogeneity of the exposure to shocks during early life to instrument for maternal depression. The empirical strategy exploits a novel longitudinal data—the Young Lives survey—that includes information on cognitive outcomes of children and variation in their mothers’ mental health status between rounds of data collection. Results suggest that maternal depression is detrimental to a child’s vocabulary at age 5, but effects fade out by age 8. Effects do not vary by maternal education but are significant only for children living in disadvantaged households. Estimations indicate that the presence of a partner worsens the effect of maternal depression on vocabulary development, results that are driven mainly by households with heavy-drinking partners. Our findings make a strong case for recognizing maternal mental health problems as disorders of public health significance and guide maternal and infant health policies in Peru.
Cytosolic Sensors for Pathogenic Viral and Bacterial Nucleic Acids in Fish
Authors: Mojzesz Miriam , Rakus Krzysztof , Chadzinska Magdalena , Nakagami Kentaro , Biswas Gouranga , Sakai Masahiro , Hikima Jun-ichi
Published: October 2020

Recognition of the non-self signature of invading pathogens is a crucial step for the initiation of the innate immune mechanisms of the host. The host response to viral and bacterial infection involves sets of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), which bind evolutionarily conserved pathogen structures, known as pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). Recent advances in the identification of different types of PRRs in teleost fish revealed a number of cytosolic sensors for recognition of viral and bacterial nucleic acids. These are DExD/H-box RNA helicases including a group of well-characterized retinoic acid inducible gene I (RIG-I)-like receptors (RLRs) and non-RLR DExD/H-box RNA helicases (e.g., DDX1, DDX3, DHX9, DDX21, DHX36 and DDX41) both involved in recognition of viral RNAs. Another group of PRRs includes cytosolic DNA sensors (CDSs), such as cGAS and LSm14A involved in recognition of viral and intracellular bacterial dsDNAs. Moreover, dsRNA-sensing protein kinase R (PKR), which has a role in antiviral immune responses in higher vertebrates, has been identified in fish. Additionally, fish possess a novel PKR-like protein kinase containing Z-DNA binding domain, known as PKZ. Here, we review the current knowledge concerning cytosolic sensors for recognition of viral and bacterial nucleic acids in teleosts.
Diverse Physiological Functions and Regulatory Mechanisms for Signal-Transducing Small GTPases
Authors: Satoh Takaya
Published: October 2020

Diverse GTPases act as signal transducing enzymes in a variety of organisms and cell types [...]
The Progression of Hemophilic Arthropathy: The Role of Biomarkers
Authors: Pasta Gianluigi , Annunziata Salvatore , Polizzi Alberto , Caliogna Laura , Jannelli Eugenio , Minen Alessandro , Mosconi Mario , Benazzo Francesco , Di Minno Matteo Nicola Dario
Published: October 2020

Background: Hemophilia A and B are X-linked congenital bleeding disorders characterized by recurrent hemarthroses leading to specific changes in the synovium and cartilage, which finally result in the destruction of the joint: this process is called hemophilic arthropathy (HA). This review highlights the most prominent molecular biomarkers found in the literature to discuss their potential use in the clinical practice to monitor bleeding, to assess the progression of the HA and the effectiveness of treatments. Methods: A review of the literature was performed on PubMed and Embase, from 3 to 7 August 2020. Study selection and data extraction were achieved independently by two authors and the following inclusion criteria were determined a priori: English language, available full text and articles published in peer-reviewed journal. In addition, further articles were identified by checking the bibliography of relevant articles and searching for the studies cited in all the articles examined. Results: Eligible studies obtained at the end of the search and screen process were seventy-three (73). Conclusions: Despite the surge of interest in the clinical use of biomarkers, current literature underlines the lack of their standardization and their potential use in the clinical practice preserving the role of physical examination and imaging in early diagnosis.
The Roles of SPOP in DNA Damage Response and DNA Replication
Authors: Maekawa Masashi , Higashiyama Shigeki
Published: October 2020

Speckle-type BTB/POZ protein (SPOP) is a substrate recognition receptor of the cullin-3 (CUL3)/RING type ubiquitin E3 complex. To date, approximately 30 proteins have been identified as ubiquitinated substrates of the CUL3/SPOP complex. Pathologically, missense mutations in the substrate-binding domain of SPOP have been found in prostate and endometrial cancers. Prostate and endometrial cancer-associated SPOP mutations lose and increase substrate-binding ability, respectively. Expression of these SPOP mutants, thus, causes aberrant turnovers of the substrate proteins, leading to tumor formation. Although the molecular properties of SPOP and its cancer-associated mutants have been intensively elucidated, their cellular functions remain unclear. Recently, a number of studies have uncovered the critical role of SPOP and its mutants in DNA damage response and DNA replication. In this review article, we summarize the physiological functions of SPOP as a “gatekeeper” of genome stability.
Quantitative Synaptic Biology: A Perspective on Techniques, Numbers and Expectations
Authors: Reshetniak Sofiia , Fernández-Busnadiego Rubén , Müller Marcus , Rizzoli Silvio O. , Tetzlaff Christian
Published: October 2020

Synapses play a central role for the processing of information in the brain and have been analyzed in countless biochemical, electrophysiological, imaging, and computational studies. The functionality and plasticity of synapses are nevertheless still difficult to predict, and conflicting hypotheses have been proposed for many synaptic processes. In this review, we argue that the cause of these problems is a lack of understanding of the spatiotemporal dynamics of key synaptic components. Fortunately, a number of emerging imaging approaches, going beyond super-resolution, should be able to provide required protein positions in space at different points in time. Mathematical models can then integrate the resulting information to allow the prediction of the spatiotemporal dynamics. We argue that these models, to deal with the complexity of synaptic processes, need to be designed in a sufficiently abstract way. Taken together, we suggest that a well-designed combination of imaging and modelling approaches will result in a far more complete understanding of synaptic function than currently possible.
Role of Neuroendocrine, Immune, and Autonomic Nervous System in Anorexia Nervosa-Linked Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Sekaninova Nikola , Bona Olexova Lucia , Visnovcova Zuzana , Ondrejka Igor , Tonhajzerova Ingrid
Published: October 2020

Anorexia nervosa represents a severe mental disorder associated with food avoidance and malnutrition. In patients suffering from anorexia nervosa, cardiovascular complications are the main reason leading to morbidity and mortality. However, the origin and pathological mechanisms leading to higher cardiovascular risk in anorexia nervosa are still unclear. In this aspect, the issue of exact pathological mechanisms as well as sensitive biomarkers for detection of anorexia nervosa-linked cardiovascular risk are discussed. Therefore, this review synthesised recent evidence of dysfunction in multiple neuroendocrine axes and alterations in the immune system that may represent anorexia nervosa-linked pathological mechanisms contributing to complex cardiovascular dysregulation. Further, this review is focused on identification of non-invasive biomarkers for the assessment of increased cardiovascular risk in anorexia nervosa that can be linked to a clinical application. Complex non-invasive assessment of cardiovascular autonomic regulation—cardiac vagal control (heart rate variability), sympathetic vascular activity (blood pressure variability), and cardiovascular reflex control (baroreflex sensitivity)—could represent a promising tool for early diagnosis, personalized therapy, and monitoring of therapeutic interventions in anorexia nervosa particularly at a vulnerable adolescent age.
Enhanced Cycling Performance of Rechargeable Zinc–Air Flow Batteries Using Potassium Persulfate as Electrolyte Additive
Authors: Khezri Ramin , Hosseini Soraya , Lahiri Abhishek , Motlagh Shiva Rezaei , Nguyen Mai Thanh , Yonezawa Tetsu , Kheawhom Soorathep
Published: October 2020

Zinc–air batteries (ZABs) offer high specific energy and low-cost production. However, rechargeable ZABs suffer from a limited cycle life. This paper reports that potassium persulfate (KPS) additive in an alkaline electrolyte can effectively enhance the performance and electrochemical characteristics of rechargeable zinc–air flow batteries (ZAFBs). Introducing redox additives into electrolytes is an effective approach to promote battery performance. With the addition of 450 ppm KPS, remarkable improvement in anodic currents corresponding to zinc (Zn) dissolution and limited passivation of the Zn surface is observed, thus indicating its strong effect on the redox reaction of Zn. Besides, the addition of 450 ppm KPS reduces the corrosion rate of Zn, enhances surface reactions and decreases the solution resistance. However, excess KPS (900 and 1350 ppm) has a negative effect on rechargeable ZAFBs, which leads to a shorter cycle life and poor cyclability. The rechargeable ZAFB, using 450 ppm KPS, exhibits a highly stable charge/discharge voltage for 800 cycles. Overall, KPS demonstrates great promise for the enhancement of the charge/discharge performance of rechargeable ZABs.
The Association between Excess Body Mass and Disturbances in Somatic Mineral Levels
Authors: Banach Weronika , Nitschke Karolina , Krajewska Natalia , Mongiałło Wojciech , Matuszak Oskar , Muszyński Józef , Skrypnik Damian
Published: October 2020

Background: Obesity and excess body weight are significant epidemiological issues, not only because they are costly to treat, but also because they are among the leading causes of death worldwide. In 2016, an estimated 40% of the global population was overweight, reflecting the importance of the issue. Obesity is linked to metabolism malfunction and concomitantly with altered mineral levels in the body. In this paper, we review alterations in somatic levels of iron, calcium, magnesium, copper, iodine, chromium, selenium, and zinc in relation to excess body mass. Methodology: An electronic literature search was performed using PubMed. Our search covered original English research articles published over the past five years, culminating in 63 papers included for study. Results: The reviewed papers presented correlation between obesity and hypomagnesemia and hypozincemia. They also indicated that patients with excess body mass present increased body copper levels. Studies have similarly indicated that obesity appears to be associated with lower selenium levels in both blood and urine, which may be correlated with the decline and weakening of defenses against oxidative stress. It has been found that decreased level of chromium is connected with metabolic syndrome. Chromium supplementation influences body mass, but the effect of the supplementation depends on the chemical form of the chromium. It is hypothesized that obesity poses a risk of iodine deficiency and iodine absorption may be disrupted by increased fat intake in obese women. A range of studies have suggested that obesity is correlated with iron deficiency. On the other hand, some reports have indicated that excess body mass may coexist with iron excess. The relation between obesity and body iron level requires further investigation. Calcium signaling seems to be disturbed in obesity, due to the increased production of reactive oxygen species and low level of fast troponin isoform responsible for mediating calcium sensitivity of muscle relaxation. Correlation between excess body mass and calcium levels needs further research. Conclusions: Excess body mass is associated with alterations in mineral levels in the body, in particular hypomagnesemia and decreased selenium (Se) and zinc (Zn) levels. Chromium (Cr) deficiency is associated with metabolic syndrome. Obese patients are at risk of iodine deficiency. Excess body mass is associated with elevated levels of copper (Cu). Data on the association between obesity and iron (Fe) levels are contradictory. Obesity coexists with disturbed calcium (Ca) signaling pathways. The association between obesity and body Ca levels has not been investigated in detail.
Susceptibility Factors in Chronic Lung Inflammatory Responses to Engineered Nanomaterials
Authors: You Dorothy J. , Bonner James C.
Published: October 2020

Engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) are products of the emerging nanotechnology industry and many different types of ENMs have been shown to cause chronic inflammation in the lungs of rodents after inhalation exposure, suggesting a risk to human health. Due to the increasing demand and use of ENMs in a variety of products, a careful evaluation of the risks to human health is urgently needed. An assessment of the immunotoxicity of ENMs should consider susceptibility factors including sex, pre-existing diseases, deficiency of specific genes encoding proteins involved in the innate or adaptive immune response, and co-exposures to other chemicals. This review will address evidence from experimental animal models that highlights some important issues of susceptibility to chronic lung inflammation and systemic immune dysfunction after pulmonary exposure to ENMs.
Anti-Tumor Effects of Exosomes Derived from Drug-Incubated Permanently Growing Human MSC
Authors: Melzer Catharina , Ohe Juliane von der , Hass Ralf
Published: October 2020

Similar to growth-limited human primary cultures of mesenchymal stroma/stem-like cells (MSC), the continuously proliferating human MSC544 cell line produced extracellular vesicles as characterized by expression of the tetraspanin molecules CD9, CD63, and CD81. Release of these particles was predominantly detectable during continuous cell growth of MSC544 in contrast to confluency-mediated transient growth arrest. For therapeutic use, these particles were isolated from proliferating MSC544 after taxol treatment and applied to different cancer cell cultures. A pronounced cytotoxicity of lung, ovarian, and breast cancer cells was observed primarily with taxol-loaded exosomes, similar to the effects displayed by application of taxol substance. While these findings suggested pronounced cancer cell targeting of MSC544 exosomes, a tumor therapeutic approach was performed using a mouse in vivo breast cancer model. Thus, intravenous injection of taxol-loaded MSC544 exosomes displayed superior tumor-reducing capabilities as compared to application of taxol exosomes by oral gavage. To broaden this therapeutic spectrum, epirubicin was applied to MSC544, and the derived exosomes likewise exhibited significant cytotoxic effects in different cancer cell cultures. These findings suggest an unlimited source for large-scale exosome production with reproducible quality to enable variable drug targeting of tumors or other diseases.
Hippocampal 2-Arachidonoyl Glycerol Signaling Regulates Time-of-Day- and Stress-Dependent Effects on Rat Short-Term Memory
Authors: Santori Alessia , Morena Maria , Hill Matthew N. , Campolongo Patrizia
Published: October 2020

Background: Cannabinoids induce biphasic effects on memory depending on stress levels. We previously demonstrated that different stress intensities, experienced soon after encoding, impaired rat short-term recognition memory in a time-of-day-dependent manner, and that boosting endocannabinoid anandamide (AEA) levels restored memory performance. Here, we examined if two different stress intensities and time-of-day alter hippocampal endocannabinoid tone, and whether these changes modulate short-term memory. Methods: Male Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to an object recognition task and exposed, at two different times of the day (i.e., morning or afternoon), to low or high stress conditions, immediately after encoding. Memory retention was assessed 1 hr later. Hippocampal AEA and 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG) content and the activity of their primary degrading enzymes, fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL), were measured soon after testing. Results: Consistent with our previous findings, low stress impaired 1-hr memory performance only in the morning, whereas exposure to high stress impaired memory independently of testing time. Stress exposure decreased AEA levels independently of memory alterations. Interestingly, exposure to high stress decreased 2-AG content and, accordingly, increased MAGL activity, selectively in the afternoon. Thus, to further evaluate 2-AG’s role in the modulation of short-term recognition memory, rats were given bilateral intra-hippocampal injections of the 2-AG hydrolysis inhibitor KML29 immediately after training, then subjected to low or high stress conditions and tested 1 hr later. Conclusions: KML29 abolished the time-of-day-dependent impairing effects of stress on short-term memory, ameliorating short-term recognition memory performance.
Immunopathogenesis of ANCA-Associated Vasculitis
Authors: Kronbichler Andreas , Lee Keum Hwa , Denicolo Sara , Choi Daeun , Lee Hyojeong , Ahn Donghyun , Kim Kang Hyun , Lee Ji Han , Kim HyungTae , Hwang Minha , Jung Sun Wook , Lee Changjun , Lee Hojune , Sung Haejune , Lee Dongkyu , Hwang Jaehyuk , Kim Sohee , Hwang Injae , Kim Do Young , Kim Hyung Jun , Cho Geonjae , Cho Yunryoung , Kim Dongil , Choi Minje , Park Junhye , Park Junseong , Tizaoui Kalthoum , Li Han , Smith Lee , Koyanagi Ai , Jacob Louis , Gauckler Philipp , Shin Jae Il
Published: October 2020

Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis is an autoimmune disorder which affects small- and, to a lesser degree, medium-sized vessels. ANCA-associated vasculitis encompasses three disease phenotypes: granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), microscopic polyangiitis (MPA), and eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA). This classification is largely based on clinical presentations and has several limitations. Recent research provided evidence that genetic background, risk of relapse, prognosis, and co-morbidities are more closely related to the ANCA serotype, proteinase 3 (PR3)-ANCA and myeloperoxidase (MPO)-ANCA, compared to the disease phenotypes GPA or MPA. This finding has been extended to the investigation of biomarkers predicting disease activity, which again more closely relate to the ANCA serotype. Discoveries related to the immunopathogenesis translated into clinical practice as targeted therapies are on the rise. This review will summarize the current understanding of the immunopathogenesis of ANCA-associated vasculitis and the interplay between ANCA serotype and proposed disease biomarkers and illustrate how the extending knowledge of the immunopathogenesis will likely translate into development of a personalized medicine approach in the management of ANCA-associated vasculitis.
Genetic Risk Profiling in Parkinson’s Disease and Utilizing Genetics to Gain Insight into Disease-Related Biological Pathways
Authors: Hall Ashley , Bandres-Ciga Sara , Diez-Fairen Monica , Quinn John P. , Billingsley Kimberley J.
Published: October 2020

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a complex disorder underpinned by both environmental and genetic factors. The latter only began to be understood around two decades ago, but since then great inroads have rapidly been made into deconvoluting the genetic component of PD. In particular, recent large-scale projects such as genome-wide association (GWA) studies have provided insight into the genetic risk factors associated with genetically ‘’complex’’ PD (PD that cannot readily be attributed to single deleterious mutations). Here, we discuss the plethora of genetic information provided by PD GWA studies and how this may be utilized to generate polygenic risk scores (PRS), which may be used in the prediction of risk and trajectory of PD. We also comment on how pathway-specific genetic profiling can be used to gain insight into PD-related biological pathways, and how this may be further utilized to nominate causal PD genes and potentially druggable therapeutic targets. Finally, we outline the current limits of our understanding of PD genetics and the potential contribution of variation currently uncaptured in genetic studies, focusing here on uncatalogued structural variants.
Role of Autophagy in Cancer Cell Response to Nucleolar and Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress
Authors: Pecoraro Annalisa , Pagano Martina , Russo Giulia , Russo Annapina
Published: October 2020

Eukaryotic cells are exposed to many internal and external stimuli that affect their fate. In particular, the exposure to some of these stimuli induces stress triggering a variety of stress responses aimed to re-establish cellular homeostasis. It is now established that the deregulation of stress response pathways plays a central role in cancer initiation and progression, allowing the adaptation of cells to an altered state in the new environment. Autophagy is a tightly regulated pathway which exerts “housekeeping” role in physiological processes. Recently, a growing amount of evidence highlighted the crucial role of autophagy in the regulation of integrated stress responses, including nucleolar and endoplasmic reticulum. In this review, we attempt to afford an overview of the complex role of nucleolar and endoplasmic reticulum stress-response mechanisms in the regulation of autophagy in cancer and cancer treatment.