bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leaf Nitrogen Traits in Response to Plant Density and Nitrogen Supply in Oilseed Rape
Authors: Labra Marcelo H. , Struik Paul C. , Calderini Daniel F. , Evers Jochem B.
Published: November 2020

Understanding the response of plant nitrogen (N) and carbon (C) economies in oilseed rape, as well as their role in defining phenotypic plasticity, is necessary for designing new strategies to optimize plant and canopy C assimilation to improve potential yield. This paper aims to elucidate the extent to which the interaction between N supply and plant population density alters N distribution in oilseed rape plant (Brassica napus L.) and whether this interaction changes plant investment in leaf area or leaf mass per area. Spring oilseed rape was grown at two rates of N supply (50 and 150 kg N·ha−1) and two plant population densities (50 and 150 plants·m−2). Photosynthesis, leaf area, leaf biomass, and N content of selected leaves were measured at 20% of flowers on main raceme open. The interaction between N supply and plant population density altered leaf N content per area, which is the main determinant of photosynthesis. This interaction also affected leaf mass per area, while N supply determined N content per unit leaf mass. These results suggest that the interaction between N supply and population density affects both nitrogen distribution and leaf mass per area, which could have important implications for light distribution and, therefore, for C assimilation at the plant level.
Adaptive Multi-Paddock Grazing Lowers Soil Greenhouse Gas Emission Potential by Altering Extracellular Enzyme Activity
Authors: Shrestha Bharat M. , Bork Edward W. , Chang Scott X. , Carlyle Cameron N. , Ma Zilong , Döbert Timm F. , Kaliaskar Dauren , Boyce Mark S.
Published: November 2020

Adaptive multi-paddock (AMP) grazing is a form of rotational grazing in which small paddocks are grazed with high densities of livestock for short periods, with long recovery periods prior to regrazing. We compared the fluxes of greenhouse gases (GHGs), including carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O), from soils of AMP-grazed grasslands to paired neighboring non-AMP-grazed grasslands across a climatic gradient in Alberta, Canada. We further tested GHG responses to changes in temperature (5 °C vs. 25 °C) and moisture levels (permanent wilting point (PWP), 40% of field capacity (0.4FC), or field capacity (FC)) in a 102-day laboratory incubation experiment. Extracellular enzyme activities (EEA), microbial biomass C (MBC) and N (MBN), and available-N were also measured on days 1, 13, and 102 of the incubation to evaluate biological associations with GHGs. The 102-day cumulative fluxes of CO2, N2O, and CH4 were affected by both temperature and moisture content (p < 0.001). While cumulative fluxes of N2O were independent of the grazing system, CH4 uptake was 1.5 times greater in soils from AMP-grazed than non-AMP-grazed grasslands (p < 0.001). There was an interaction of the grazing system by temperature (p < 0.05) on CO2 flux, with AMP soils emitting 17% more CO2 than non-AMP soils at 5 °C, but 18% less at 25 °C. The temperature sensitivity (Q10) of CO2 fluxes increased with soil moisture level (i.e., PWP < 0.4FC ≤ FC). Structural equation modelling indicated that the grazing system had no direct effect on CO2 or N2O fluxes, but had an effect on CH4 fluxes on days 1 and 13, indicating that CH4 uptake increased in association with AMP grazing. Increasing soil moisture level increased fluxes of GHGs—directly and indirectly—by influencing EEAs. Irrespective of the grazing system, the MBC was an indirect driver of CO2 emissions and CH4 uptake through its effects on soil EEAs. The relationships of N-acetyl-β glucosaminidase and β-glucosidase to N2O fluxes were subtle on day 1, and independent thereafter. AMP grazing indirectly affected N2O fluxes by influencing N-acetyl-β glucosaminidase on day 13. We conclude that AMP grazing has the potential to mitigate the impact of a warmer soil on GHG emissions by consuming more CH4 compared to non-AMP grazing in northern temperate grasslands, presumably by altering biogeochemical properties and processes.
Effects of Dietary Supplementation of Humic Acid Sodium and Zinc Oxide on Growth Performance, Immune Status and Antioxidant Capacity of Weaned Piglets
Authors: Wang Qi , Ying Jiafu , Zou Peng , Zhou Yuanhao , Wang Baikui , Yu Dongyou , Li Weifen , Zhan Xiaoli
Published: November 2020

At present, the widespread use of high-dose zinc oxide and antibiotics to prevent post-weaning diarrhea (PWD) in piglets has caused serious environmental problems. To solve this problem, we studied the effect of HNa as a substitute for zinc oxide (ZnO) and antibiotics on the growth performance, immune status, and antioxidant capacity of piglets. Seventy-two weaned piglets (body weight = 7.42 ± 0.85 kg, 26-d-old) were distributed in a randomized 2 × 3 factorial design (two sexes and three treatments) with six replicates of four piglets each. The three treatments were the control diet (basic diet), HNa diet (basic diet + 2000 mg/kg sodium humate), and ZoA group (basic diet + 1600 mg/kg zinc oxide + 1000 mg/kg oxytetracycline calcium). ANOVA and Chi-square tests were applied to compare the means (p < 0.05) between treatments. The results showed that body weight at 16 and 30 d and the average daily gain of piglets fed with HNa or ZoA were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than the control group. Supplementing HNa or ZoA significantly increased (p < 0.05) the level of immunoglobulin M and G, and reduced (p < 0.05) the concentration of inflammatory factors such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukins IL-6 and IL-1β, myeloperoxidase (MPO), and diamine oxidase (DAO). Furthermore, dietary HNa or ZnO significantly reduced (p < 0.05) the level of total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) and malondialdehyde (MDA) compared with the control group. ZoA treatment showed an upward trend of IgA level and a downward trend of the concentration of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and catalase (CAT). Overall, the study demonstrated that the addition of HNa in the diet partially replaced antibiotics and ZnO to improve the growth performance, immune function, and antioxidant capacity of weaned piglets, and maintained a good preventive effect on piglet diarrhea.
Role of the JAK-STAT Pathway in Bovine Mastitis and Milk Production
Authors: Khan Muhammad Zahoor , Khan Adnan , Xiao Jianxin , Ma Yulin , Ma Jiaying , Gao Jian , Cao Zhijun
Published: November 2020

The cytokine-activated Janus kinase (JAK)—signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathway is a sequence of communications between proteins in a cell, and it is associated with various processes such as cell division, apoptosis, mammary gland development, lactation, anti-inflammation, and immunity. The pathway is involved in transferring information from receptors on the cell surface to the cell nucleus, resulting in the regulation of genes through transcription. The Janus kinase 2 (JAK2), signal transducer and activator of transcription A and B (STAT5 A & B), STAT1, and cytokine signaling suppressor 3 (SOCS3) are the key members of the JAK-STAT pathway. Interestingly, prolactin (Prl) also uses the JAK-STAT pathway to regulate milk production traits in dairy cattle. The activation of JAK2 and STATs genes has a critical role in milk production and mastitis resistance. The upregulation of SOCS3 in bovine mammary epithelial cells inhibits the activation of JAK2 and STATs genes, which promotes mastitis development and reduces the lactational performance of dairy cattle. In the current review, we highlight the recent development in the knowledge of JAK-STAT, which will enhance our ability to devise therapeutic strategies for bovine mastitis control. Furthermore, the review also explores the role of the JAK-STAT pathway in the regulation of milk production in dairy cattle.
The Role of Urine in Semiochemical Communication between Females and Males of Domestic Dog (Canis familiaris) during Estrus
Authors: Woszczyło Martyna , Jezierski Tadeusz , Szumny Antoni , Niżański Wojciech , Dzięcioł Michał
Published: November 2020

This study aimed to assess the mechanisms of semiochemical signal detection in dogs. In the first experiment, five males were exposed to volatile semiochemicals emitted by a live female in estrus and the female’s urine sample collected during estrus. The odor of canine food and clean air were used as controls. In the second experiment, 25 males could directly sniff and lick the urine samples from females in estrus, from females in anestrus, from males and from humans, placed in a lineup. Sniffing, licking and salivation, as well as keeping dogs at different distances from the source of odor, were recorded in both experiments. Experiment 1 showed that food odor was sniffed by males longer than estrous urine. Volatile semiochemicals from females in estrus evoked interest in males but without visual cues did not cause overt symptoms of sexual arousal. In Experiment 2, the estrous urine evoked interest in males and provoked significantly longer sniffing. Licking accompanied by salivation was observed in all instances only during direct contact with estrous urine. The results suggest a complex character of detection of female reproductive status, in which both volatile and nonvolatile compounds emitted by females and present in female urine are involved.
Multiplicity of Carbapenemase-Producers Three Years after a KPC-3-Producing K. pneumoniae ST147-K64 Hospital Outbreak
Authors: Guerra Ana Margarida , Lira Agostinho , Lameirão Angelina , Selaru Aurélia , Abreu Gabriela , Lopes Paulo , Mota Margarida , Novais Ângela , Peixe Luísa
Published: November 2020

Carbapenem resistance rates increased exponentially between 2014 and 2017 in Portugal (~80%), especially in Klebsiella pneumoniae. We characterized the population of carbapanemase-producing Enterobacterales (CPE) infecting or colonizing hospitalized patients (2017–2018) in a central hospital from northern Portugal, where KPC-3-producing K. pneumoniae capsular type K64 has caused an initial outbreak. We gathered phenotypic (susceptibility data), molecular (population structure, carbapenemase, capsular type) and biochemical (FT-IR) data, together with patients’ clinical and epidemiological information. A high diversity of Enterobacterales species, clones (including E. coli ST131) and carbapenemases (mainly KPC-3 but also OXA-48 and VIM) was identified three years after the onset of carbapenemases spread in the hospital studied. ST147-K64 K. pneumoniae, the initial outbreak clone, is still predominant though other high-risk clones have emerged (e.g., ST307, ST392, ST22), some of them with pandrug resistance profiles. Rectal carriage, previous hospitalization or antibiotherapy were presumptively identified as risk factors for subsequent infection. In addition, our previously described Fourier Transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy method typed 94% of K. pneumoniae isolates with high accuracy (98%), and allowed to identify previously circulating clones. This work highlights an increasing diversity of CPE infecting or colonizing patients in Portugal, despite the infection control measures applied, and the need to improve the accuracy and speed of bacterial strain typing, a goal that can be met by simple and cost-effective FT-IR based typing.
Frequency-Domain Characteristics of Series DC Arcs in Photovoltaic Systems with Voltage-Source Inverters
Authors: Kim Jae-Chang , Kwak Sang-Shin
Published: November 2020

In this study, the frequency characteristics of series DC arcs are analyzed according to the types of frequency fluctuations caused by inverters in photovoltaic (PV) systems. These frequency fluctuation types used in analysis include centralized frequency fluctuations by three-phase inverter, spread frequency fluctuations by three-phase inverter, and centralized frequency fluctuations by single-phase inverter. To collect arc current data, the frequency fluctuations are generated by inverters in the arc-generating circuit, designed by referring to UL1699B, and the arcs are generated by separating the arc rods of the arc generator. The frequency analysis of the arc current data, collected using an oscilloscope, is conducted using MATLAB. From the results of the frequency characteristics analysis, it is confirmed that the frequencies in the range from 5 to 40 kHz increase after arc generation regardless of the type of frequency fluctuation. In addition, the smaller the current, the greater the increase in frequencies between 5 and 40 kHz after arc generation. Further, in case of arc currents with centralized frequency fluctuations, for larger switching frequencies, the 5 to 40 kHz components increase to a greater extent after arcing.
Soil Erosion: Dust Control and Sand Stabilization
Authors: Katra Itzhak
Published: November 2020

This Special Issue on soil erosion invites novel and original articles based on physical and chemical theories, field and laboratory experimental, soil analyses, and/or statistical and mathematical modeling that advance our knowledge on dust control and sand stabilization.
Recognizing Events in Spatiotemporal Soccer Data
Authors: Khaustov Victor , Mozgovoy Maxim
Published: November 2020

Spatiotemporal datasets based on player tracking are widely used in sports analytics research. Common research tasks often require the analysis of game events, such as passes, fouls, tackles, and shots on goal. However, spatiotemporal datasets usually do not include event information, which means it has to be reconstructed automatically. We propose a rule-based algorithm for identifying several basic types of events in soccer, including ball possession, successful and unsuccessful passes, and shots on goal. Our aim is to provide a simple procedure that can be used for practical soccer data analysis tasks, and also serve as a baseline model for algorithms based on more advanced approaches. The resulting algorithm is fast, easy to implement, achieves high accuracy on the datasets available to us, and can be used in similar scenarios without modification.
An Experimental Study on the Defect Detectability of Time- and Frequency-Domain Analyses for Flash Thermography
Authors: Poelman Gaétan , Hedayatrasa Saeid , Segers Joost , Van Paepegem Wim , Kersemans Mathias
Published: November 2020

A defect’s detectability in flash thermography is highly dependent on the applied post-processing methodology. The majority of the existing analysis techniques operate either on the time-temperature data or on the frequency-phase data. In this paper, we compare the efficiency of time- and frequency-domain analysis techniques in flash thermography for obtaining good defect detectability. Both single-bin and integrated-bin evaluation procedures are considered: dynamic thermal tomography and thermal signal area for the time-domain approach, and frequency domain tomography and adaptive spectral band integration for the frequency-domain approach. The techniques are applied on various carbon fiber reinforced polymer samples having a range of defect sizes and defect types. The advantages and drawbacks of the different post-processing techniques are evaluated and discussed. The best defect detectability is achieved using the integrated procedure in frequency domain.
Study on the Influence of Sapphire Crystal Orientation on Its Chemical Mechanical Polishing
Authors: Cao Linlin , Zhang Xiang , Yuan Julong , Guo Luguang , Hong Teng , Hang Wei , Ma Yi
Published: November 2020

Sapphire has been the most widely used substrate material in LEDs, and the demand for non-C-planes crystal is increasing. In this paper, four crystal planes of the A-, C-, M- and R-plane were selected as the research objects. Nanoindentation technology and chemical mechanical polishing technology were used to study the effect of anisotropy on material properties and processing results. The consequence showed that the C-plane was the easiest crystal plane to process with the material removal rate of 5.93 nm/min, while the R-plane was the most difficult with the material removal rate of 2.47 nm/min. Moreover, the research results have great guiding significance for the processing of sapphire with different crystal orientations.
Membrane Protein Structure Determination and Characterisation by Solution and Solid-State NMR
Authors: Yeh Vivien , Goode Alice , Bonev Boyan B.
Published: November 2020

Biological membranes define the interface of life and its basic unit, the cell. Membrane proteins play key roles in membrane functions, yet their structure and mechanisms remain poorly understood. Breakthroughs in crystallography and electron microscopy have invigorated structural analysis while failing to characterise key functional interactions with lipids, small molecules and membrane modulators, as well as their conformational polymorphism and dynamics. NMR is uniquely suited to resolving atomic environments within complex molecular assemblies and reporting on membrane organisation, protein structure, lipid and polysaccharide composition, conformational variations and molecular interactions. The main challenge in membrane protein studies at the atomic level remains the need for a membrane environment to support their fold. NMR studies in membrane mimetics and membranes of increasing complexity offer close to native environments for structural and molecular studies of membrane proteins. Solution NMR inherits high resolution from small molecule analysis, providing insights from detergent solubilised proteins and small molecular assemblies. Solid-state NMR achieves high resolution in membrane samples through fast sample spinning or sample alignment. Recent developments in dynamic nuclear polarisation NMR allow signal enhancement by orders of magnitude opening new opportunities for expanding the applications of NMR to studies of native membranes and whole cells.
Integration of Real-Time Image Fusion in the Robotic-Assisted Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Radu Corina , Fisher Petra , Mitrea Delia , Birlescu Iosif , Marita Tiberiu , Vancea Flaviu , Florian Vlad , Tefas Cristian , Badea Radu , Ștefănescu Horia , Nedevschi Sergiu , Pisla Doina , Hajjar Nadim Al
Published: November 2020

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, with its mortality rate correlated with the tumor staging; i.e., early detection and treatment are important factors for the survival rate of patients. This paper presents the development of a novel visualization and detection system for HCC, which is a composing module of a robotic system for the targeted treatment of HCC. The system has two modules, one for the tumor visualization that uses image fusion (IF) between computerized tomography (CT) obtained preoperatively and real-time ultrasound (US), and the second module for HCC automatic detection from CT images. Convolutional neural networks (CNN) are used for the tumor segmentation which were trained using 152 contrast-enhanced CT images. Probabilistic maps are shown as well as 3D representation of HCC within the liver tissue. The development of the visualization and detection system represents a milestone in testing the feasibility of a novel robotic system in the targeted treatment of HCC. Further optimizations are planned for the tumor visualization and detection system with the aim of introducing more relevant functions and increase its accuracy.
Compounds from Natural Sources as Protein Kinase Inhibitors
Authors: Baier Andrea , Szyszka Ryszard
Published: November 2020

The advantage of natural compounds is their lower number of side-effects when compared to most synthetic substances. Therefore, over the past several decades, the interest in naturally occurring compounds is increasing in the search for new potent drugs. Natural compounds are playing an important role as a starting point when developing new selective compounds against different diseases. Protein kinases play a huge role in several diseases, like cancers, neurodegenerative diseases, microbial infections, or inflammations. In this review, we give a comprehensive view of natural compounds, which are/were the parent compounds in the development of more potent substances using computational analysis and SAR studies.
High-Tech and Nature-Made Nanocomposites and Their Applications in the Field of Sensors and Biosensors for Gas Detection
Authors: Zappi Daniele , Ramma Matiss Martins , Scognamiglio Viviana , Antonacci Amina , Varani Gabriele , Giardi Maria Teresa
Published: November 2020

Gas sensors have been object of increasing attention by the scientific community in recent years. For the development of the sensing element, two major trends seem to have appeared. On one hand, the possibility of creating complex structures at the nanoscale level has given rise to ever more sensitive sensors based on metal oxides and metal–polymer combinations. On the other hand, gas biosensors have started to be developed, thanks to their intrinsic ability to be selective for the target analyte. In this review, we analyze the recent progress in both areas and underline their strength, current problems, and future perspectives.
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) in Oncology
Authors: Juarranz Ángeles , Gilaberte Yolanda , González Salvador
Published: November 2020

The issue is focused on Photodynamic Therapy (PDT), which is a minimally invasive therapeutic modality approved for treatment of several types of cancer and non-oncological disorders [...]
The Polemic Diagnostic Role of TP53 Mutations in Liquid Biopsies from Breast, Colon and Lung Cancers
Authors: Garrido-Navas M. Carmen , García-Díaz Abel , Molina-Vallejo Maria Pilar , González-Martínez Coral , Alcaide Lucena Miriam , Cañas-García Inés , Bayarri Clara , Delgado Juan Ramón , González Encarna , Lorente Jose Antonio , Serrano M. Jose
Published: November 2020

Being minimally invasive and thus allowing repeated measures over time, liquid biopsies are taking over traditional solid biopsies in certain circumstances such as those for unreachable tumors, very early stages or treatment monitoring. However, regarding TP53 mutation status analysis, liquid biopsies have not yet substituted tissue samples, mainly due to the lack of concordance between the two types of biopsies. This needs to be examined in a study-dependent manner, taking into account the particular type of liquid biopsy analyzed, that is, circulating tumor cells (CTCs) or cell-free DNA (cfDNA), its involvement in the tumor biology and evolution and, finally, the technology used to analyze each biopsy type. Here, we review the main studies analyzing TP53 mutations in either CTCs or cfDNA in the three more prevalent solid tumors: breast, colon and lung cancers. We evaluate the correlation for mutation status between liquid biopsies and tumor tissue, suggesting possible sources of discrepancies, as well as evaluating the clinical utility of using liquid biopsies for the analysis of TP53 mutation status and the future actions that need to be undertaken to make liquid biopsy analysis a reality for the evaluation of TP53 mutations.
Identification of Pre-Diagnostic Metabolic Patterns for Glioma Using Subset Analysis of Matched Repeated Time Points
Authors: Jonsson Pär , Antti Henrik , Späth Florentin , Melin Beatrice , Björkblom Benny
Published: November 2020

Here, we present a strategy for early molecular marker pattern detection—Subset analysis of Matched Repeated Time points (SMART)—used in a mass-spectrometry-based metabolomics study of repeated blood samples from future glioma patients and their matched controls. The outcome from SMART is a predictive time span when disease-related changes are detectable, defined by time to diagnosis and time between longitudinal sampling, and visualization of molecular marker patterns related to future disease. For glioma, we detect significant changes in metabolite levels as early as eight years before diagnosis, with longitudinal follow up within seven years. Elevated blood plasma levels of myo-inositol, cysteine, N-acetylglucosamine, creatinine, glycine, proline, erythronic-, 4-hydroxyphenylacetic-, uric-, and aceturic acid were particularly evident in glioma cases. We use data simulation to ensure non-random events and a separate data set for biomarker validation. The latent biomarker, consisting of 15 interlinked and significantly altered metabolites, shows a strong correlation to oxidative metabolism, glutathione biosynthesis and monosaccharide metabolism, linked to known early events in tumor development. This study highlights the benefits of progression pattern analysis and provide a tool for the discovery of early markers of disease.
BH3 Mimetics for the Treatment of B-Cell Malignancies—Insights and Lessons from the Clinic
Authors: Lin Victor S. , Xu Zhuo-Fan , Huang David C. S. , Thijssen Rachel
Published: November 2020

The discovery of the link between defective apoptotic regulation and cancer cell survival engendered the idea of targeting aberrant components of the apoptotic machinery for cancer therapy. The intrinsic pathway of apoptosis is tightly controlled by interactions amongst members of three distinct subgroups of the B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2) family of proteins. The pro-survival BCL2 proteins prevent apoptosis by keeping the pro-apoptotic effector proteins BCL2-associated X protein (BAX) and BCL2 homologous antagonist/killer (BAK) in check, while the BH3-only proteins initiate apoptosis by either neutralizing the pro-survival BCL2 proteins or directly activating the pro-apoptotic effector proteins. This tripartite regulatory mechanism is commonly perturbed in B-cell malignancies facilitating cell death evasion. Over the past two decades, structure-based drug discovery has resulted in the development of a series of small molecules that mimic the function of BH3-only proteins called the BH3 mimetics. The most clinically advanced of these is venetoclax, which is a highly selective inhibitor of BCL2 that has transformed the treatment landscape for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Other BH3 mimetics, which selectively target myeloid cell leukemia 1 (MCL1) and B-cell lymphoma extra large (BCLxL), are currently under investigation for use in diverse malignancies. Here, we review the current role of BH3 mimetics in the treatment of CLL and other B-cell malignancies and address open questions in this rapidly evolving field.
Linking Circulating Serum Proteins with Clinical Outcomes in Esophageal Adenocarcinoma—An Emerging Role for Chemokines
Authors: Donlon Noel E. , Sheppard Andrew , Davern Maria , O’Connell Fiona , Phelan James J. , Power Robert , Nugent Timothy , Dinneen Kate , Aird John , Greene John , Nevins Selvadurai Paul , Bhardwaj Anshul , Foley Emma K. , Ravi Narayanasamy , Donohoe Claire L. , Reynolds John V. , Lysaght Joanne , O’Sullivan Jacintha , Dunne Margaret R.
Published: November 2020

Esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) is an aggressive cancer with poor prognosis and incidence is increasing rapidly in the Western world. Multi-modal treatment has improved survival outcomes but only for a minority of patients. Currently no markers have been identified to predict treatment response. This study investigated the association between clinical outcomes and pre-treatment levels of 54 serum proteins in n = 80 patients with EAC. Low tumor regression grade (TRG), corresponding to a favorable treatment response, was linked to prolonged overall survival (OS). CCL4 was higher in patients with a favorable treatment response, while Tie2 and CRP were higher in poor responders. Elevated CCL22 and CCL26 was associated with improved OS, while elevated IL-10 showed a negative association. CCL3, CCL4, IL-1α and IL-12/IL23p40 were highest in individuals with no adverse features of tumor biology, whereas levels of Tie2 and VEGF were lowest in this cohort. CCL4 was also elevated in patients with high tumor lymphocyte infiltration. Comparison of matched pre- and post-treatment serum (n = 28) showed a large reduction in VEGFC, and a concomitant increase in other cytokines, including CCL4. These data link several serum markers with clinical outcomes, highlighting an important role for immune cell trafficking in the EAC antitumor immune response.
Growth Factor Receptor Expression in Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Cancer: Her1–4 and c-Met in Conjunction with the Clinical Features and Human Papillomavirus (p16) Status
Authors: Deuss Eric , Gößwein Dorothee , Gül Désirée , Zimmer Stefanie , Foersch Sebastian , Eger Claudia S. , Limburg Ivonne , Stauber Roland H. , Künzel Julian
Published: November 2020

This study aimed to assess the distribution of growth factor receptors in oropharyngeal squamous cell cancer (OPSCC) and evaluate their role in the context of human papillomavirus (HPV) status, prognosis and potential relevance for targeted therapy. The protein expression of human epidermal growth factor receptor (Her)1–4 and c-Met were retrospectively assessed using semiquantitative immunohistochemistry on tissue microarrays and analyzed for correlations as well as differences in the clinicopathological criteria. Her1–4 and c-met were overexpressed compared to normal mucosa in 46%, 4%, 17%, 27% and 23%, respectively. Interestingly, most receptors were coexpressed. Her1 and c-Met were inversely correlated with p16 (p = 0.04; p = 0.02). Her2 and c-Met were associated with high tobacco consumption (p = 0.016; p = 0.04). High EGFR, Her3, Her4 and c-Met expression were associated with worse overall and disease-free survival (p ≤ 0.05). Furthermore, EGFR and c-Met expression showed raised hazard ratios of 2.53 (p = 0.02; 95% CI 1.24–5.18) and 2.45 (p = 0.02; 95% CI 1.13–5.35), respectively. Her4 was expressed less in distant metastases than in corresponding primary tumors and was correlated to a higher T category. EGFR and c-Met are relevant negative prognostic factors in OPSCC, independent of known clinicopathological parameters. We suggest dual targeting of EGFR and c-Met as a promising strategy for OPSCC treatment.
The 40bp Indel Polymorphism rs150550023 in the MDM2 Promoter is Associated with Intriguing Shifts in Gene Expression in the p53-MDM2 Regulatory Hub
Authors: Miedl Heidi , Dietrich Bianca , Kaserer Klaus , Schreiber Martin
Published: November 2020

Most low-penetrance genetic risk factors for cancer are located in noncoding regions, presumably altering the regulation of neighboring genes. The poorly characterized Indel polymorphism rs150550023 (rs3730485; del1518) in the promoter of MDM2 (human homolog of mouse double minute 2) is a biologically plausible candidate genetic risk factor, which might influence the expression of MDM2, a key negative regulator of the central tumor suppressor p53. Here, we genotyped rs150550023 in a Central European hospital-based case–control study of 407 breast cancer patients and 254 female controls. mRNA levels of MDM2, p53, and the p53 target genes p21, BAX, and PERP were quantified with qRT-PCR, and p53 protein was assessed with immune histochemistry in ≈100 primary breast tumors with ascertained rs150550023 genotype. We found no evidence for an association of rs150550023 with the risk, age at onset, or prognosis of breast cancer. A possible synergism was observed with SNP309 in promoter P2 of MDM2. Mean mRNA levels of MDM2, p53, p21, and BAX were ≈1.5–3 fold elevated in TP53 wildtype tumors with the minor homozygous Del/Del genotype. However, systematic shifts in p53 protein levels or mutation rates were not observed, suggesting that the elevated p53 mRNA levels are due to regulatory feedback loops that compensate for the effects of rs150550023 on MDM2 expression.
Cardiogenetics: An Open Access Journal
Authors: Limongelli Giuseppe , Crotti Lia , Elliott Perry Mark
Published: November 2020

“A new era in Cardiogenetics” [...]
Accelerating the Oxygen Reduction Reaction and Oxygen Evolution Reaction Activities of N and P Co-Doped Porous Activated Carbon for Li-O2 Batteries
Authors: Jo Hyun-Gi , Ahn Hyo-Jin
Published: November 2020

Rechargeable lithium–oxygen (Li-O2) batteries represent state-of-the-art electrochemical energy storage devices that provide high energy densities. However, their commercialization is challenging owing to their low charging/discharging efficiencies, short battery lives, high overpotentials, and high cathode manufacturing costs. In this study, we prepared a metal-free, N,P co-doped, porous activated carbon (N,P-PAC) electrode via KOH activation and P doping for application as a Li-O2 battery cathode. When used in a rechargeable Li-O2 battery, the N,P-PAC cathode showed a high specific discharge capacity (3724 mA h g−1 at 100 mA g−1), an excellent cycling stability (25 cycles with a limit capacity of 1000 mA h g−1), and a low charge/discharge voltage gap (1.22 V at 1000 mA h g−1). The N,P-PAC electrode showed a low overpotential (EOER-ORR) of 1.54 V. The excellent electrochemical performance of the N,P-PAC electrode can mainly be attributed to its large active area and oxygen-containing functional groups generated via KOH activation and P-doping processes. Therefore, the N,P-PAC prepared in this study was found to be a promising eco-friendly and sustainable metal-free cathode material for Li-O2 batteries.
Iron-Catalyzed Conjugate Addition of Aryl Iodides onto Activated Alkenes under Air in Water
Authors: Huang Chung-Min , Peng Wen-Sheng , Liu Ling-Jun , Wu Chien-Chi , Tsai Fu-Yu
Published: November 2020

The combination of commercially available FeCl3·6H2O with a water-soluble cationic 2,2′-bipyridyl catalytic system was found to enable the direct conjugate addition of aryl iodides onto activated alkenes, such as an α,β-unsaturated ester and a ketone, in a weakly acidic aqueous solution. This operationally simple protocol was carried out at 80 °C under air atmosphere in a potassium acetate-buffered aqueous solution for 12 h in the presence of Zn dust as a reductant to provide the desired 1,4-adducts in good yields.
Establishment of a Rapid Lesion-Controllable Retinal Degeneration Monkey Model for Preclinical Stem Cell Therapy
Authors: Gao Guanjie , He Liwen , Liu Shengxu , Zheng Dandan , Song Xiaojing , Zhang Wenxin , Yu Minzhong , Luo Guangwei , Zhong Xiufeng
Published: November 2020

Background: Retinal degenerative disorders (RDs) are the main cause of blindness without curable treatment. Our previous studies have demonstrated that human-induced pluripotent stem cells can differentiate into retinal organoids with all subtypes of retina, which provides huge promise for treating these diseases. Before these methods can be realized, RD animal models are required to evaluate the safety and efficacy of stem cell therapy and to develop the surgical tools and procedures for cell transplantation in patients. This study involved the development of a monkey model of RD with controllable lesion sites, which can be rapidly prepared for the study of preclinical stem cell therapy among other applications. Methods: Sodium nitroprusside (SNP) in three doses was delivered into the monkey eye by subretinal injection (SI), and normal saline was applied as control. Structural and functional changes of the retinas were evaluated via multimodal imaging techniques and multifocal electroretinography (mfERG) before and after the treatment. Histological examination was performed to identify the target layer of the affected retina. The health status of monkeys was monitored during the experiment. Results: Well-defined lesions with various degrees of retinal degeneration were induced at the posterior pole of retina as early as 7 days after SNP SI. The damage of SNP was dose dependent. In general, 0.05 mM SNP caused mild structural changes in the retina; 0.1 mM SNP led to the loss of outer retinal layers, including the outer plexiform layer (OPL), outer nuclear layer (ONL), and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE); while 0.2 mM SNP impacted the entire layer of the retina and choroid. MfERG showed reduced amplitude in the damaged region. The structural and functional damages were not recovered at 7-month follow-up. Conclusion: A rapidly induced lesion site-controllable retinal degeneration monkey model was established by the subretinal administration of SNP, of which the optimal dose is 0.1 mM. This monkey model mimics the histological changes of advanced RDs and provides a valuable platform for preclinical assessment of stem cell therapy for RDs.
Heteroaggregation and Homoaggregation of Latex Particles in the Presence of Alkyl Sulfate Surfactants
Authors: Cao Tianchi , Borkovec Michal , Trefalt Gregor
Published: November 2020

Heteroaggregation and homoaggregation is investigated with time-resolved multi-angle dynamic light scattering. The aggregation rates are measured in aqueous suspensions of amidine latex (AL) and sulfate latex (SL) particles in the presence of sodium octyl sulfate (SOS) and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS). As revealed by electrophoresis, the surfactants adsorb to both types of particles. For the AL particles, the adsorption of surfactants induces a charge reversal and triggers fast aggregation close to the isoelectric point (IEP). The negatively charged SL particles remain negatively charged and stable in the whole concentration range investigated. The heteroaggregation rates for AL and SL particles are fast at low surfactant concentrations, where the particles are oppositely charged. At higher concentrations, the heteroaggregation slows down above the IEP of the AL particles, where the particles become like-charged. The SDS has higher affinity to the surface compared to the SOS, which induces a shift of the IEP and of the fast aggregation regime to lower surfactant concentrations.
Process Diagnosis of Liquid Steel Flow in a Slab Mold Operated with a Slide Valve
Authors: Rodríguez-Ávila Jafeth , Muñiz-Valdés Carlos Rodrigo , Morales-Dávila Rodolfo , Nàjera-Bastida Alfonso
Published: November 2020

Slab molds receive liquid steel from the tundish through bifurcated submerged entry nozzles (SEN) using a slide valve as throughput control. Due to the off-centering position of the three plates’ orifices that conform to the valve to control the steel passage, the flow inside the nozzle and mold is inherently biased toward the valve opening side. In the practical casting, a biased flow induces inhomogeneous heat fluxes through the mold copper plates. The nozzle design itself is also a challenge, and has direct consequences on the quality of the product. A diagnosis of the casting process regarding the internal and external flows, performed through experimental and mathematical simulation tools, made it possible to reach concrete results. The mathematical simulations predicted the flow dynamics, and the topography and levels variations of the meniscus characterized through a full-scale water model. The flows are biased, and the meniscus level fluctuations indicated that the current nozzle is not reliable to cast at the two extremes of the casting speeds of 0.9 m/min and 1.65 m/min, due to the danger of mold flux entrainment. A redesign of the nozzle is recommended, based on the experimental and mathematical results presented here.
Transverse Scaling of Schottky Barrier Charge-Trapping Cells for Energy-Efficient Applications
Authors: Teng Hung-Jin , Chen Yu-Hsuan , Tsai Jr-Jie , Chien Nguyen , Lien Chenhsin , Shih Chun-Hsing
Published: November 2020

This work numerically elucidates the effects of transverse scaling on Schottky barrier charge-trapping cells for energy-efficient applications. Together with the scaled gate structures and charge-trapping dielectrics, variations in bias conditions on source-side injection are considered for properly operating Schottky barrier cells in low-power or high-efficiency applications. A gate voltage of 5 to 9 V with a drain voltage of 1 to 3 V was employed to program the Schottky barrier cells. Both the non-planar double-gate gate structure and scaled dielectric layers effectively improve the source-side programming. When the gate voltage of 5 V was operated, there were roughly two orders of magnitude greater injected gate currents observed in the ONO-scaled double-gate cells. Five successive programming-trapping iterations were employed to consider the coupling of trapped charges and Schottky barriers, examining the differences in physical mechanisms between different design options. The gate structures, dielectric layers, and gate/drain voltages are key factors in designing transverse scaled Schottky barrier charge-trapping cells for low-power and high-efficiency applications.
Role of Adiponectin and Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha in the Pathogenesis and Evolution of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Szabo Csilla Enikő , Man Oana Iulia , Istrate Alexandru , Kiss Eva , Catana Andreea , Creț Victoria , Șerban Radu Sorin , Pop Ioan Victor
Published: November 2020

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is a complex condition caused by the destruction of pancreatic beta cells by autoimmune mechanisms. As a result, insulin deficiency and subsequent hyperglycemia occur. The aim of the present study is to investigate the role of adiponectin and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) in the development of T1DM. The study is designed as an observational case-control study, involving 52 diabetic patients and 66 controls. Z scores for Body Mass Index (BMI), weight, height, and adiponectin and TNF-α serum levels were assessed in both groups. The T1DM group had significantly higher TNF-α levels and a significantly higher proportion of high-risk patients for inflammation based on TNF-α values as compared to the control group, while both groups had statistically similar adiponectin levels and a similar proportion of high/medium-risk patients based on adiponectin values. TNF-α plays a significant role in the pathogenesis and evolution of T1DM and it may represent an additional marker of disease progression, as well as a potential target of immunotherapeutic strategies. In the present study, no statistically significant differences were recorded in adiponectin levels neither in diabetic patients and controls, nor in high/medium severity risk diabetic patients.
MPG and NPRL3 Polymorphisms Are Associated with Ischemic Stroke Susceptibility and Post-Stroke Mortality
Authors: Ryu Chang Soo , Bae Jinkun , Kim In Jai , Kim Jinkwon , Oh Seung Hun , Kim Ok Joon , Kim Nam Keun
Published: November 2020

Ischemic stroke is a complicated disease which is affected by environmental factors and genetic factors. In this field, various studies using whole-exome sequencing (WES) have focused on novel and linkage variants in diverse diseases. Thus, we have investigated the various novel variants, which focused on their linkages to each other, in ischemic stroke. Specifically, we analyzed the N-methylpurine DNA glycosylase (MPG) gene, which plays an initiating role in DNA repair, and the nitrogen permease regulator-like 3 (NPRL3) gene, which is involved in regulating the mammalian target of rapamycin pathway. We took blood samples of 519 ischemic stroke patients and 417 controls. Genetic polymorphisms were detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), real-time PCR, and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis. We found that two NPRL3 polymorphisms (rs2541618 C>T and rs75187722 G>A), as well as the MPG rs2562162 C>T polymorphism, were significantly associated with ischemic stroke. In Cox proportional hazard regression models, the MPG rs2562162 was associated with the survival of small-vessel disease patients in ischemic stroke. Our study showed that NPRL3 and MPG polymorphisms are associated with ischemic stroke prevalence and ischemic stroke survival. Taken together, these findings suggest that NPRL3 and MPG genotypes may be useful clinical biomarkers for ischemic stroke development and prognosis.
The English Version of the Health Profession Communication Collective Efficacy Scale (HPCCE Scale) by Capone and Petrillo, 2012
Authors: Capone Vincenza , Marino Leda , Donizzetti Anna Rosa
Published: November 2020

Communication is a crucial component in all steps of the health care process. Therefore, it is important to have knowledge about the communication skills of the whole health organization. From the socio-cognitive perspective, collective efficacy beliefs are the main indicators of the capacity of functioning of the system. This work aimed to contribute to the validation of the English version of Health Profession Communication Collective Efficacy Scale (HPCCE scale) a self-report questionnaire measuring hospital doctors’ beliefs to succeed as a group to meet the needs of internal and external communication and of communication with patients, examining the structure, reliability and convergent validity. This study was a cross-sectional investigation conducted using snowball sampling. The participants were 287 doctors working at different hospitals in UK. Explorative factor analyses and Rasch analysis confirmed the one-factor solution. Results revealed high internal reliability. The HPCCE scale correlated positively with Social Self-Efficacy. The English version of HPCCE is a valid instrument to measure communication efficacy beliefs in hospital, involving different type of doctors. It can contribute to the implementation and evaluation of management interventions in a health organization aimed at its optimization.
Metal-Free Carbon-Based Supercapacitors—A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Siraj Noureen , Macchi Samantha , Berry Brian , Viswanathan Tito
Published: November 2020

Herein, metal-free heteroatom doped carbon-based materials are being reviewed for supercapacitor and energy applications. Most of these low-cost materials considered are also derived from renewable resources. Various forms of carbon that have been employed for supercapacitor applications are described in detail, and advantages as well as disadvantages of each form are presented. Different methodologies that are being used to develop these materials are also discussed. To increase the specific capacitance, carbon-based materials are often doped with different elements. The role of doping elements on the performance of supercapacitors has been critically reviewed. It has been demonstrated that a higher content of doping elements significantly improves the supercapacitor behavior of carbon compounds. In order to attain a high percentage of elemental doping, precursors with variable ratios as well as simple modifications in the syntheses scheme have been employed. Significance of carbon-based materials doped with one and more than one heteroatom have also been presented. In addition to doping elements, other factors which play a key role in enhancing the specific capacitance values such as surface area, morphology, pore size electrolyte, and presence of functional groups on the surface of carbon-based supercapacitor materials have also been summarized.
Optimal Planning of Real-Time Bus Information System for User-Switching Behavior
Authors: Lee Zoonky , Hwang Sewoong , Kim Jonghyuk
Published: November 2020

Seoul Metropolitan City’s buses cater to more than 50% of the average daily public transportation use, and they are the most important transportation mode in Korea, together with the subway. Since 2004, all public transportation records of passengers have been stored in Seoul, using smart transportation cards. This study explores the environmental and psychological factors in implementing a smart transportation system. We analyze the switching behavior of traffic users according to traffic congestion time and number of transfers based on public transportation data and show that bus-use behavior differs according to the traffic information of users and the degree of traffic congestion. Information-based switching behavior of people living near bus stops induces people to change routes during traffic congestion. However, in non-congested situations, the original routes are used. These results can guide the formulation of policy measures on bus routes. We made it possible to continuously change the routes for certain buses, which were temporarily implemented due to traffic congestion. Moreover, we added a service that posts the estimated arrival time to major stops while reflecting real-time traffic conditions in addition to the bus location and arrival time information through the global positioning system.