bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expectations Regarding Dental Practice: A Cross-Sectional Survey of European Dental Students
Authors: Wolf Thomas , Wagner Ralf , Zeyer Oliver , Ilhan Duygu , Crnić Tin , Otterbach Ernst-Jürgen , Campus Guglielmo
Published: October 2020

Obtaining information on expectations among dental students regarding their career planning was the main purpose of this observational online survey. The questionnaire was designed with 18 items in five different languages: English, French, German, Italian and Spanish. Data were collected on nationality, age, sex, country of residence, university attended, semester, expected year of graduation and expectations about future career. More than 3000 participants (n = 3851, 2863 females 74.34% and 988 males 25.66% with a sex ratio of 0.35) participated in the survey. Almost one-third (31.29%) of the participants plan to start their own practice at least three years after vocational training, a quarter (25.76%) after three, and only 12.59% after one year. A positive influence of the family in the decision to start a practice was observed in 50.07% of the sample with a statistically significant difference regarding sex (p < 0.01). Almost one-third of the participants did not wish to work in an institution run by private equity or insurance companies, while 21.79% would work in that environment (p < 0.01). European dental students desire mainly to become self-employed and start their own practice. New professional practices also offer them options for their future career that they have not yet decided on or thought about.
Urban Green Accessibility Index: A Measure of Pedestrian-Centered Accessibility to Every Green Point in an Urban Area
Authors: Jang Kee Moon , Kim Jaeman , Lee Hye-Yeong , Cho Hyemin , Kim Youngchul
Published: October 2020

Advancements in remote sensing techniques and urban data analysis tools have enabled the successful monitoring and detection of green spaces in a city. This study aims to develop an index called the urban green accessibility (UGA) index, which measures people’s accessibility to green space and represents the citywide or local characteristics of the distribution pattern of green space. The index is defined as the sum of pedestrians’ accessibility to all vegetation points, which consists of the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) with integration and choice values from angular segment analysis. In this study, the proposed index is tested with cases of New York, NY, and San Francisco, CA, in the US. The results reveal differences based on the significance of streets. When analysis ranges are on a neighborhood scale, a few hotspots appear in well-known green areas on commonly accessible streets and in local neighborhood parks on residential blocks. The appearance of high-accessibility points in low-NDVI areas implies the potential of the efficient and proper distribution of green spaces for pedestrians. The proposed measure is expected to help in planning and managing green areas in cities, taking people’s accessibility and spatial relationships into consideration.
Gene Editing by Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Kostyushev Dmitry , Kostyusheva Anastasiya , Brezgin Sergey , Smirnov Valery , Volchkova Elena , Lukashev Alexander , Chulanov Vladimir
Published: October 2020

CRISPR/Cas technologies have advanced dramatically in recent years. Many different systems with new properties have been characterized and a plethora of hybrid CRISPR/Cas systems able to modify the epigenome, regulate transcription, and correct mutations in DNA and RNA have been devised. However, practical application of CRISPR/Cas systems is severely limited by the lack of effective delivery tools. In this review, recent advances in developing vehicles for the delivery of CRISPR/Cas in the form of ribonucleoprotein complexes are outlined. Most importantly, we emphasize the use of extracellular vesicles (EVs) for CRISPR/Cas delivery and describe their unique properties: biocompatibility, safety, capacity for rational design, and ability to cross biological barriers. Available molecular tools that enable loading of desired protein and/or RNA cargo into the vesicles in a controllable manner and shape the surface of EVs for targeted delivery into specific tissues (e.g., using targeting ligands, peptides, or nanobodies) are discussed. Opportunities for both endogenous (intracellular production of CRISPR/Cas) and exogenous (post-production) loading of EVs are presented.
Genomic Analysis of Hematopoietic Stem Cell at the Single-Cell Level: Optimization of Cell Fixation and Whole Genome Amplification (WGA) Protocol
Authors: Carretta Chiara , Mallia Selene , Genovese Elena , Parenti Sandra , Rontauroli Sebastiano , Bianchi Elisa , Fantini Sebastian , Sartini Stefano , Tavernari Lara , Tagliafico Enrico , Manfredini Rossella
Published: October 2020

Single-cell genomics has become the method of choice for the study of heterogeneous cell populations and represents an elective application in defining the architecture and clonal evolution in hematological neoplasms. Reconstructing the clonal evolution of a neoplastic population therefore represents the main way to understand more deeply the pathogenesis of the neoplasm, but it is also a potential tool to understand the evolution of the tumor population with respect to its response to therapy. Pre-analytical phase for single-cell genomics analysis is crucial to obtain a cell population suitable for single-cell sorting, and whole genome amplification is required to obtain the necessary amount of DNA from a single cell in order to proceed with sequencing. Here, we evaluated the impact of different methods of cellular immunostaining, fixation and whole genome amplification on the efficiency and yield of single-cell sequencing.
Characterization of Cetacean Proline-Rich Antimicrobial Peptides Displaying Activity against ESKAPE Pathogens
Authors: Sola Riccardo , Mardirossian Mario , Beckert Bertrand , Sanghez De Luna Laura , Prickett Dennis , Tossi Alessandro , Wilson Daniel N. , Scocchi Marco
Published: October 2020

Proline-rich antimicrobial peptides (PrAMPs) may be a valuable weapon against multi-drug resistant pathogens, combining potent antimicrobial activity with low cytotoxicity. We have identified novel PrAMPs from five cetacean species (cePrAMPs), and characterized their potency, mechanism of action and in vitro cytotoxicity. Despite the homology between the N-terminal of cePrAMPs and the bovine PrAMP Bac7, some differences emerged in their sequence, activity spectrum and mode of action. CePrAMPs with the highest similarity with the Bac7(1-35) fragment inhibited bacterial protein synthesis without membrane permeabilization, while a second subgroup of cePrAMPs was more membrane-active but less efficient at inhibiting bacterial translation. Such differences may be ascribable to differences in presence and positioning of Trp residues and of a conserved motif seemingly required for translation inhibition. Unlike Bac7(1-35), which requires the peptide transporter SbmA for its uptake, the activity of cePrAMPs was mostly independent of SbmA, regardless of their mechanism of action. Two peptides displayed a promisingly broad spectrum of activity, with minimal inhibiting concentration MIC ≤ 4 µM against several bacteria of the ESKAPE group, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Enterococcus faecium. Our approach has led us to discover several new peptides; correlating their sequences and mechanism of action will provide useful insights for designing optimized future peptide-based antibiotics.
Identifying Differentially Expressed MicroRNAs, Target Genes, and Key Pathways Deregulated in Patients with Liver Diseases
Authors: Gholizadeh Maryam , Szelag-Pieniek Sylwia , Post Mariola , Kurzawski Mateusz , Prieto Jesus , Argemi Josepmaria , Drozdzik Marek , Kaderali Lars
Published: October 2020

Liver diseases are important causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The aim of this study was to identify differentially expressed microRNAs (miRNAs), target genes, and key pathways as innovative diagnostic biomarkers in liver patients with different pathology and functional state. We determined, using RT-qPCR, the expression of 472 miRNAs in 125 explanted livers from subjects with six different liver pathologies and from control livers. ANOVA was employed to obtain differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs), and miRDB (MicroRNA target prediction database) was used to predict target genes. A miRNA–gene differential regulatory (MGDR) network was constructed for each condition. Key miRNAs were detected using topological analysis. Enrichment analysis for DEMs was performed using the Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery (DAVID). We identified important DEMs common and specific to the different patient groups and disease progression stages. hsa-miR-1275 was universally downregulated regardless the disease etiology and stage, while hsa-let-7a*, hsa-miR-195, hsa-miR-374, and hsa-miR-378 were deregulated. The most significantly enriched pathways of target genes controlled by these miRNAs comprise p53 tumor suppressor protein (TP53)-regulated metabolic genes, and those involved in regulation of methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2) expression, phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) messenger RNA (mRNA) translation and copper homeostasis. Our findings show a novel panel of deregulated miRNAs in the liver tissue from patients with different liver pathologies. These miRNAs hold potential as biomarkers for diagnosis and staging of liver diseases.
Combined Poziotinib with Manidipine Treatment Suppresses Ovarian Cancer Stem-Cell Proliferation and Stemness
Authors: Lee Heejin , Kim Jun Woo , Lee Dong-Seok , Min Sang-Hyun
Published: October 2020

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the most lethal gynecological malignancy in women worldwide, with an overall 5 year survival rate below 30%. The low survival rate is associated with the persistence of cancer stem cells (CSCs) after chemotherapy. Therefore, CSC-targeting strategies are required for successful EOC treatment. Pan-human epidermal growth factor receptor 4 (HER4) and L-type calcium channels are highly expressed in ovarian CSCs, and treatment with the pan-HER inhibitor poziotinib or calcium channel blockers (CCBs) selectively inhibits the growth of ovarian CSCs via distinct molecular mechanisms. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that combination treatment with poziotinib and CCBs can synergistically inhibit the growth of ovarian CSCs. Combined treatment with poziotinib and manidipine (an L-type CCB) synergistically suppressed ovarian CSC sphere formation and viability compared with either drug alone. Moreover, combination treatment synergistically reduced the expression of stemness markers, including CD133, KLF4, and NANOG, and stemness-related signaling molecules, such as phospho-STAT5, phospho-AKT, phospho-ERK, and Wnt/β-catenin. Moreover, poziotinib with manidipine dramatically induced apoptosis in ovarian CSCs. Our results suggest that the combinatorial use of poziotinib with a CCB can effectively inhibit ovarian CSC survival and function.
Terpenes and Terpenoids in Plants: Interactions with Environment and Insects
Authors: Boncan Delbert Almerick T. , Tsang Stacey S.K. , Li Chade , Lee Ivy H.T. , Lam Hon-Ming , Chan Ting-Fung , Hui Jerome H.L.
Published: October 2020

The interactions of plants with environment and insects are bi-directional and dynamic. Consequently, a myriad of mechanisms has evolved to engage organisms in different types of interactions. These interactions can be mediated by allelochemicals known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which include volatile terpenes (VTs). The emission of VTs provides a way for plants to communicate with the environment, including neighboring plants, beneficiaries (e.g., pollinators, seed dispersers), predators, parasitoids, and herbivores, by sending enticing or deterring signals. Understanding terpenoid distribution, biogenesis, and function provides an opportunity for the design and implementation of effective and efficient environmental calamity and pest management strategies. This review provides an overview of plant–environment and plant–insect interactions in the context of terpenes and terpenoids as important chemical mediators of these abiotic and biotic interactions.
One Year’s Treatment with the Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 Receptor Agonist Liraglutide Decreases Hepatic Fat Content in Women with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Prior Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in a Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Vedtofte Louise , Bahne Emilie , Foghsgaard Signe , Bagger Jonatan I. , Andreasen Camilla , Strandberg Charlotte , Gørtz Peter M. , Holst Jens J. , Grønbæk Henning , Svare Jens A. , Clausen Tine D. , Mathiesen Elisabeth R. , Damm Peter , Gluud Lise L. , Knop Filip K. , Vilsbøll Tina
Published: October 2020

Prior gestational diabetes mellitus (pGDM) is associated with increased risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Treatment with glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists has shown beneficial effects in NAFLD patients. We evaluated the effect of the GLP-1 analogue liraglutide on NAFLD features in women with pGDM. Eighty-two overweight/obese, nondiabetic women with pGDM were included. We performed abdominal ultrasound, transient elastography with controlled attenuation parameter (CAP), and blood sampling at baseline and after 1 year. Thirty-seven women were randomized to liraglutide (1.8 mg once-daily) and 45 to placebo. Based on the ultrasound scan, 18 women (22%) had ultrasound-verified NAFLD at baseline and of these, 10 (56%) received liraglutide treatment. After 1 year, eight participants no longer had steatosis, four in each treatment group. The number of participants who developed NAFLD was similar in the two treatment groups; five in the liraglutide group and six in the placebo group (p = 0.74). Compared to placebo, liraglutide reduced the CAP-assessed intrahepatic fat content (−28 (−44;−11) vs. 2 (−13;18) dB/m, p < 0.01) and body weight (−4.7 (−6.4;−2.9) vs. −1.4 (−3;0.3) kg, p < 0.01). One-year’s liraglutide treatment had no effect on the presence of ultrasound-diagnosed NAFLD in overweight/obese nondiabetic women with pGDM, but reduced body weight and steatosis assessed by transient elastography with CAP.
The Potential for Tidal Range Energy Systems to Provide Continuous Power: A UK Case Study
Authors: Mackie Lucas , Coles Daniel , Piggott Matthew , Angeloudis Athanasios
Published: October 2020

The extraction of tidal energy from head differences represents a predictable and flexible option for generating electricity. Here, we investigate the generation potential of prospective tidal power plants in the UK. Originally conceived as separate projects, operating these schemes as a cooperative system could prove beneficial. Combined with the inherent operational flexibility of tidal range-based schemes, a notable tidal phase difference in selected sites allows for the system to spread power generation over a larger proportion of the day. Using depth-averaged modelling and gradient-based optimisation techniques, we explore how a flexible cumulative operation schedule could be applied to provide a degree of continuous supply if desirable. While fully continuous operation is not achieved, a number of different optimisation schedules deliver cumulative continuous supply for over half of the year. The average minimum cumulative power output on these days is consistently over 500 MW out of a total installed capacity of 6195.3 MW. Furthermore, by introducing financial incentives associated with reliable, baseload supply, we provide an economic assessment of the tidal power plant system. The daily minimum cumulative power output determines income in the modelled idealised baseload market, while excess supply is traded in an hourly variable wholesale energy market. Results indicate that subsidies would be required in order to make a pursuit of continuous generation financially advantageous over energy maximisation strategies.
Laboratory Investigation of Rubberized Asphalt Using High-Content Rubber Powder
Authors: Wang Guoqing , Wang Xinqiang , Lv Songtao , Qin Lusheng , Peng Xinghai
Published: October 2020

Rubberized asphalt (RA) has been successfully applied in road engineering due to its excellent performance; however, the most widely used rubber content is about 20%.To improve the content of waste rubber and ensure its performance, seven rubberized asphalts with different powder content were prepared by high-speed shearing. Firstly, penetration, softening point, and ductility tests were carried out to investigate the conventional physical features of high-content rubberized asphalt (HCRA). Then, the dynamic shear rheometer test (DSR) was conducted to estimate the high-temperature rheological properties. The bending beam rheometer test (BBR) was carried out to evaluate the low-temperature rheological performance. Finally, combined with the macroscopic performance test, the modification mechanism was revealed by the Fourier transform infrared reflection (FTIR) test, and scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis was used to observe the microscopic appearance before and after aging. The results show that rubberized asphalt has excellent properties in high- and low-temperature conditions, and fatigue resistance is also outstanding compared with neat asphalt. As the crumb rubber content increases, it is evident that the 40% RA performance is the best. The low-temperature properties of HCRA are better than the traditional 20% rubberized asphalt. This study provides a full test foundation for the efficient utilization of HCRA in road engineering.
Analytic Model of Maximal Experimental Value of Stress Intensity Factor KQ for AA2519–AA1050–Ti6Al4V Layered Material
Authors: Kotyk Maciej
Published: October 2020

The article presents the results of the author’s tests involving the determination of the maximal experimental value of the stress intensity factor KQ. This value was determined for a layered material obtained as the result of explosive welding of three alloys: AA2519, Ti6Al4V and AA1050, and separately for each material. In both cases tests were conducted for two temperatures—the ambient temperature (293 K), and cryogenic temperature (77 K). A model for initial assessment of the KQ value of AA2519–AA1050–Ti6Al4V (Al–Ti) layered material has also been presented. The proposed model has been developed so as to enable the determination of the curve course of load–COD for Al–Ti layered material using nominal stresses defined on the basis of a real load–COD course, obtained for the base materials, for both temperature conditions.
The Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmacology of Marine Natural Products from Leptolyngbya, a Chemically Endowed Genus of Cyanobacteria
Authors: Li Yueying , Naman C. Benjamin , Alexander Kelsey L. , Guan Huashi , Gerwick William H.
Published: October 2020

Leptolyngbya, a well-known genus of cyanobacteria, is found in various ecological habitats including marine, fresh water, swamps, and rice fields. Species of this genus are associated with many ecological phenomena such as nitrogen fixation, primary productivity through photosynthesis and algal blooms. As a result, there have been a number of investigations of the ecology, natural product chemistry, and biological characteristics of members of this genus. In general, the secondary metabolites of cyanobacteria are considered to be rich sources for drug discovery and development. In this review, the secondary metabolites reported in marine Leptolyngbya with their associated biological activities or interesting biosynthetic pathways are reviewed, and new insights and perspectives on their metabolic capacities are gained.
Real-World Data Analysis of Pregnancy-Associated Breast Cancer at a Tertiary-Level Hospital in Romania
Authors: Simionescu Anca A. , Horobeț Alexandra , Belaşcu Lucian , Median Dragoş Mircea
Published: October 2020

Background and objectives: Breast cancer is among the most common cancer types encountered during pregnancy. Here, we aimed to describe the characteristics, management, and outcomes of women with pregnancy-associated breast cancer at a tertiary-level hospital in Romania. Material and Methods: We retrospectively and prospectively collected demographic, oncological, and obstetrical data for women diagnosed with cancer during pregnancy, and who elected to continue their pregnancy, between June 2012 and June 2020. Complete data were obtained regarding family and personal medical history and risks factors, cancer diagnosis and staging, clinical and pathological features (including histology and immunohistochemistry), multimodal cancer treatment, pregnancy management (fetal ultrasounds, childbirth, and postpartum data), and infant development and clinical evolution up to 2020. Cancer therapy was administered following national guidelines and institutional protocols and regimens developed for non-pregnant patients, including surgery and chemotherapy, while avoiding radiotherapy during pregnancy. Results: At diagnosis, 16.67% of patients were in an advanced/metastatic stage, while 75% were in early operable stages. However, the latter patients underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy rather than up-front surgery due to aggressive tumor biology (triple negative, multifocal, or HER2+). No patient achieved complete pathological remission, but only one patient relapsed. No recurrence was recorded within 12 months among early-stage patients. Conclusions: In this contemporary assessment of real-world treatment patterns and outcomes among patients with pregnancy-associated breast cancer, our findings were generally consistent with globally observed treatment outcomes, underscoring the need for a multidisciplinary team and reference centers.
Two Homologues of the Global Regulator Csr/Rsm Redundantly Control Phaseolotoxin Biosynthesis and Virulence in the Plant Pathogen Pseudomonas amygdali pv. phaseolicola 1448A
Authors: Ramírez-Zapata Diana , Ramos Cayo , Aguilera Selene , Bardaji Leire , Martínez-Gil Marta , Murillo Jesús
Published: October 2020

The widely conserved Csr/Rsm (carbon storage regulator/repressor of stationary-phase metabolites) post-transcriptional regulatory system controls diverse phenotypes involved in bacterial pathogenicity and virulence. Here we show that Pseudomonas amygdali pv. phaseolicola 1448A contains seven rsm genes, four of which are chromosomal. In RNAseq analyses, only rsmE was thermoregulated, with increased expression at 18 °C, whereas the antagonistic sRNAs rsmX1, rsmX4, rsmX5 and rsmZ showed increased levels at 28 °C. Only double rsmA-rsmE mutants showed significantly altered phenotypes in functional analyses, being impaired for symptom elicitation in bean, including in planta growth, and for induction of the hypersensitive response in tobacco. Double mutants were also non-motile and were compromised for the utilization of different carbon sources. These phenotypes were accompanied by reduced mRNA levels of the type III secretion system regulatory genes hrpL and hrpA, and the flagellin gene, fliC. Biosynthesis of the phytotoxin phaseolotoxin by mutants in rsmA and rsmE was delayed, occurring only in older cultures, indicating that these rsm homologues act as inductors of toxin synthesis. Therefore, genes rsmA and rsmE act redundantly, although with a degree of specialization, to positively regulate diverse phenotypes involved in niche colonization. Additionally, our results suggest the existence of a regulatory molecule different from the Rsm proteins and dependent on the GacS/GacA (global activator of antibiotic and cyanide production) system, which causes the repression of phaseolotoxin biosynthesis at high temperatures.
Self-Sensing Alkali-Activated Materials: A Review
Authors: Vlachakis Christos , Perry Marcus , Biondi Lorena
Published: October 2020

Alkali-activated materials are an emerging technology that can serve as an alternative solution to ordinary Portland cement. Due to their alkaline nature, these materials are inherently more electrically conductive than ordinary Portland cement, and have therefore seen numerous applications as sensors and self-sensing materials. This review outlines the current state-of-the-art in strain, temperature and moisture sensors that have been developed using alkali activated materials. Sensor fabrication methods, electrical conductivity mechanisms, and comparisons with self-sensing ordinary Portland cements are all outlined to highlight best practice and propose future directions for research.
An Insight into the Solid-State Miscibility of Triacylglycerol Crystals
Authors: Macridachis-González Jorge , Bayés-García Laura , Calvet Teresa
Published: October 2020

The crystallization properties of triacylglycerols (TAGs) strongly determine the functional properties of natural lipids. The polymorphic and mixing phase behavior of TAG molecules have long been, and still are, a hot topic of research with special relevance for the cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and food industry. To avoid the difficulties arising from the study of whole real fats, studies at the molecular level on mixtures of a limited number of TAGs has become an indispensable tool to identify the underlying causes of the physical properties in lipid systems. In particular, phase diagrams of binary mixtures of TAGs exhibiting a different degree of heterogeneity (monoacid or mixed fatty acids; molecular symmetry; the presence of cis or trans double bonds) have resulted in a significant breakthrough in our knowledge about structure–interaction–function relationships. The present work aims to provide an overview of the main reports regarding binary and ternary TAG systems, from the early studies to the most recent developments.
(+)-Erythro-Δ8′-7S,8R-dihydroxy-3,3′,5′-trimethoxy-8-O-4′-neolignan, an Anti-Acne Component in Degreasing Myristica fragrans Houtt
Authors: Lee Chia-Jung , Huang Chun-Wei , Chen Lih-Geeng , Wang Ching-Chiung
Published: October 2020

Acne is a common skin condition observed in adolescents. Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt) (MF) is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine; its major toxic components, safrole and myristicin, are rich in essential oils. Essential oils of MF (MFO) were extracted by hydrodistillation; the residue was extracted using 50% methanol (MFE-M). The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of MFE-M against Cutibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus aureus was 0.64 mg. Four compounds were obtained from MFE-M: myristicin (1), (+)-erythro-Δ8′-7S,8R- dihydroxy-3,3,5′-trimethoxy-8-O-4′-neolignan (2), (+)-erythro-Δ8’-7-hydroxy-3,4,3’,5’-tetramethoxy 8-O-4-neolignan (3), and erythro-Δ8′-7-acetoxy-3,4,3′,5′-tetramethoxy-8-O-4′-neolignan (4). Compound 2 exerted the strongest antimicrobial activity, with MICs of 6.25 and 3.12 μg/mL against C. acnes and S. aureus, respectively. Moreover, 2 inhibited NO, PGE2, iNOS, and COX-2 levels in RAW 264.7 cells induced by LPS or heat-killed C. acnes; NO production at 50% inhibitory concentrations (IC50) was 11.07 and 11.53 μg/mL, respectively. Myristicin and safrole content was higher in MFO than in MFE-M. MFO and MFE-M caused no skin irritation after a single topical application in Wistar rats. MFE-M, with low safrole and myristicin content, did not cause skin irritation and exhibited an anti-acne effect; moreover, 2 was identified as the active substance. Therefore, MFE-M could be employed to develop anti-acne compounds for use in cosmetics.
Nanostructure ITO and Get More of It. Better Performance at Lower Cost
Authors: López Manel , Frieiro Juan Luis , Nuez-Martínez Miquel , Pedemonte Martí , Palacio Francisco , Teixidor Francesc
Published: October 2020

In this paper, we investigated how different growth conditions (i.e., temperature, growth time, and composition) allows for trading off cost (i.e., In content) and performance of nanostructured indium tin oxide (ITO) for biosensing applications. Next, we compared the behavior of these functionalized nanostructured surfaces obtained in different growth conditions between each other and with a standard thin film as a reference, observing improvements in effective detection area up to two orders of magnitude. This enhanced the biosensor’s sensitivity, with higher detection level, better accuracy and higher reproducibility. Results show that below 150 °C, the growth of ITO over the substrate forms a homogenous layer without any kind of nanostructuration. In contrast, at temperatures higher than 150 °C, a two-phase temperature-dependent growth was observed. We concluded that (i) nanowire length grows exponentially with temperature (activation energy 356 meV) and leads to optimal conditions in terms of both electroactive surface area and sensitivity at around 300 °C, (ii) longer times of growth than 30 min lead to larger active areas and (iii) the In content in a nanostructured film can be reduced by 10%, obtaining performances equivalent to those found in commercial flat-film ITO electrodes. In summary, this work shows how to produce appropriate materials with optimized cost and performances for different applications in biosensing.
A Multi-Omics Approach Identifies Key Regulatory Pathways Induced by Long-Term Zinc Supplementation in Human Primary Retinal Pigment Epithelium
Authors: Emri Eszter , Kortvely Elod , Dammeier Sascha , Klose Franziska , Simpson David , Consortium EYE-RISK Consortium , den Hollander Anneke I. , Ueffing Marius , Lengyel Imre
Published: October 2020

In age-related macular degeneration (AMD), both systemic and local zinc levels decline. Elevation of zinc in clinical studies delayed the progression to end-stage AMD. However, the molecular pathways underpinning this beneficial effect are not yet identified. In this study, we used differentiated primary human fetal retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cultures and long-term zinc supplementation to carry out a combined transcriptome, proteome and secretome analysis from three genetically different human donors. After combining significant differences, we identified the complex molecular networks using Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA). The cell cultures from the three donors showed extensive pigmentation, development of microvilli and basal infoldings and responded to zinc supplementation with an increase in transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) (apical supplementation: 443.2 ± 79.3%, basal supplementation: 424.9 ± 116.8%, compared to control: 317.5 ± 98.2%). Significant changes were observed in the expression of 1044 genes, 151 cellular proteins and 124 secreted proteins. Gene set enrichment analysis revealed changes in specific molecular pathways related to cell adhesion/polarity, extracellular matrix organization, protein processing/transport, and oxidative stress response by zinc and identified a key upstream regulator effect similar to that of TGFB1.
Involvement of Gut Microbiota, Microbial Metabolites and Interaction with Polyphenol in Host Immunometabolism
Authors: Man Andy W.C. , Zhou Yawen , Xia Ning , Li Huige
Published: October 2020

Immunological and metabolic processes are inextricably linked and important for maintaining tissue and organismal health. Manipulation of cellular metabolism could be beneficial to immunity and prevent metabolic and degenerative diseases including obesity, diabetes, and cancer. Maintenance of a normal metabolism depends on symbiotic consortium of gut microbes. Gut microbiota contributes to certain xenobiotic metabolisms and bioactive metabolites production. Gut microbiota-derived metabolites have been shown to be involved in inflammatory activation of macrophages and contribute to metabolic diseases. Recent studies have focused on how nutrients affect immunometabolism. Polyphenols, the secondary metabolites of plants, are presented in many foods and beverages. Several studies have demonstrated the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of polyphenols. Many clinical trials and epidemiological studies have also shown that long-term consumption of polyphenol-rich diet protects against chronic metabolic diseases. It is known that polyphenols can modulate the composition of core gut microbiota and interact with the immunometabolism. In the present article, we review the mechanisms of gut microbiota and its metabolites on immunometabolism, summarize recent findings on how the interaction between microbiota and polyphenol modulates host immunometabolism, and discuss future research directions.
The Associations between Dairy Product Consumption and Biomarkers of Inflammation, Adipocytokines, and Oxidative Stress in Children: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Aslam Hajara , Jacka Felice N , Marx Wolfgang , Karatzi Kalliopi , Mavrogianni Christina , Karaglani Eva , Mohebbi Mohammadreza , Pasco Julie A , O’Neil Adrienne , Berk Michael , Nomikos Tzortzis , Kanellakis Spyridon , Androutsos Odysseas , Manios Yannis , Moschonis George
Published: October 2020

The association between dairy product consumption and biomarkers of inflammation, adipocytokines, and oxidative stress is poorly studied in children. Therefore, these associations were examined in a representative subsample of 1338 schoolchildren with a mean age of 11.5 (±0.7) years in the Healthy Growth Study. Information on dairy product consumption was collected by dietary recalls. Total dairy consumption was calculated by summing the intake of milk, yogurt, and cheese. Inflammatory markers, i.e., high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and adipocytokines, i.e., leptin, adiponectin, and the antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were analysed. Due to the skewed distribution hs-CRP, IL-6, and leptin were log transformed. Multivariable regression analyses adjusted for age, sex, energy intake, physical activity, parental education, Tanner stage, and fat mass were used to assess the associations between consumption of total dairy, milk, yogurt, cheese, and markers of inflammation, adipocytokines, oxidative stress, and adiponectin−leptin ratio. Our results showed that milk consumption was inversely associated with leptin (β: −0.101; 95% CI: −0.177, −0.025, p = 0.009) and positively associated with the adiponectin−leptin ratio (β: 0.116; 95% CI: 0.020, 0.211; p = 0.018), while total dairy, cheese, and yogurt consumption were not associated with inflammatory, adipocytokine, or antioxidant markers. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm these results.
Cytotoxicity Effects of Water-Soluble Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Decorated with Quaternized Hyperbranched Poly(ethyleneimine) Derivatives on Autotrophic and Heterotrophic Gram-Negative Bacteria
Authors: Heliopoulos Nikolaos S. , Kythreoti Georgia , Lyra Kyriaki Marina , Panagiotaki Katerina N. , Papavasiliou Aggeliki , Sakellis Elias , Papageorgiou Sergios , Kouloumpis Antonios , Gournis Dimitrios , Katsaros Fotios K. , Stamatakis Kostas , Sideratou Zili
Published: October 2020

Oxidized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (oxCNTs) were functionalized by a simple non-covalent modification procedure using quaternized hyperbranched poly(ethyleneimine) derivatives (QPEIs), with various quaternization degrees. Structural characterization of these hybrids using a variety of techniques, revealed the successful and homogenous anchoring of QPEIs on the oxCNTs’ surface. Moreover, these hybrids efficiently dispersed in aqueous media, forming dispersions with excellent aqueous stability for over 12 months. Their cytotoxicity effect was investigated on two types of gram(−) bacteria, an autotrophic (cyanobacterium Synechococcus sp. PCC 7942) and a heterotrophic (bacterium Escherichia coli). An enhanced, dose-dependent antibacterial and anti-cyanobacterial activity against both tested organisms was observed, increasing with the quaternization degree. Remarkably, in the photosynthetic bacteria it was shown that the hybrid materials affect their photosynthetic apparatus by selective inhibition of the Photosystem-I electron transport activity. Cytotoxicity studies on a human prostate carcinoma DU145 cell line and 3T3 mouse fibroblasts revealed that all hybrids exhibit high cytocompatibility in the concentration range, in which they also exhibit both high antibacterial and anti-cyanobacterial activity. Thus, QPEI-functionalized oxCNTs can be very attractive candidates as antibacterial and anti-cyanobacterial agents that can be used for potential applications in the disinfection industry, as well as for the control of harmful cyanobacterial blooms.
Growth Indicators of Main Species Predict Aboveground Biomass of Population and Community on a Typical Steppe
Authors: Huang Xiaojuan , Liu Yongjie , Wang Niya , Li Lan , Hu An , Wang Zhen , Chang Shenghua , Chen Xianjiang , Hou Fujiang
Published: October 2020

The objective was to explore a fast, accurate, non-destructive, and less disturbance method for predicting the aboveground biomass (AGB) of the typical steppe, by using plant height and canopy diameter of the dominant species, Stipa bungeana, Artemisia capillaris, and Lespedeza davurica, data were observed from 165 quadrats during the peak plant growing season, and the product of plant height (PH) and canopy diameter (PC) were calculated for each species. AGB of population were predicted for the same species and other species through using 2/3 of the measured data, and the optimal predictive equation was linear in terms of determination coefficient. The other 1/3 of the data, which was measured from no grazing paddocks or rotational grazing paddocks, was substituted into the predictive equations for validation. Results showed that PC of one dominant species could be used to predict AGB of the same species or other species well. The predicted and measured values were significantly correlative, and most of the predictive accuracy was above 80%, and not affected by managements of grassland, including rotational grazing or no grazing. A combination of 3 to 6 representative species was used to predict AGB of the community, and the predictive equations with PC of six species as an independent variable were the most optimal because explaining 83.5% variation of AGB. The predictive methods cost 1/15, 1/9, and 1/51 of time, labor, and capital as much as the destructive sample method (quadrat sampling method), respectively, and thus improved the efficiency of field study and protecting the fragile study areas, especially the long-term study sites in grassland.
Comparison of the Photosynthetic Capacity of Phragmites australis in Five Habitats in Saline‒Alkaline Wetlands
Authors: An Subang , Liu Xingtu , Wen Bolong , Li Xiaoyu , Qi Peng , Zhang Kun
Published: October 2020

Water shortages have an important impact on the photosynthetic capacity of Phragmites australis. However, this impact has not been adequately studied from the perspective of photosynthesis. An in-depth study of the photosynthetic process can help in better understanding the impact of water shortages on the photosynthetic capacity of P. australis, especially on the microscale. The aim of this study is to explore the photosynthetic adaptation strategies to environmental changes in saline‒alkaline wetlands. The light response curves and CO2 response curves of P. australis in five habitats (hygrophilous, xerophytic, psammophytic, abandoned farmland, paddy field drainage) in saline‒alkaline wetlands were measured at different stages of their life history, and we used a nonrectangular hyperbolic model to fit the data. It was concluded that P. australis utilized coping strategies that differed between the growing and breeding seasons. P. australis in abandoned farmland during the growing season had the highest apparent quantum efficiency (AQE) and photosynthetic utilization efficiency for weak light because of the dark environment. The dark respiration rate of P. australis in the drainage area of paddy fields was the lowest, and it had the highest values for photorespiration rate, maximum photosynthetic rate (Pmax), photosynthetic capacity (Pa), biomass, maximum carboxylation rate (Vcmax), and maximum electron transfer rate (Jmax). The light insensitivity of P. australis increased with the transition from growing to breeding season, and the dark respiration rate also showed a downward trend. Moreover, Vcmax and Jmax would decline when Pmax and Pa showed a declining trend, and vice versa. In other words, Vcmax and Jmax could explain changes in the photosynthetic capacity to some extent. These findings contribute to providing insights that Vcmax and Jmax can directly reflect the variation in photosynthetic capacity of P. australis under water shortages in saline‒alkaline wetlands and in other parts of world where there are problems with similarly harmful environmental conditions.
The Applicability of SWOT’s Non-Uniform Space–Time Sampling in Hydrologic Model Calibration
Authors: Nickles Cassandra , Beighley Edward , Feng Dongmei
Published: October 2020

The Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT) satellite mission, expected to launch in 2022, will enable near global river discharge estimation from surface water extents and elevations. However, SWOT’s orbit specifications provide non-uniform space–time sampling. Previous studies have demonstrated that SWOT’s unique spatiotemporal sampling has a minimal impact on derived discharge frequency distributions, baseflow magnitudes, and annual discharge characteristics. In this study, we aim to extend the analysis of SWOT’s added value in the context of hydrologic model calibration. We calibrate a hydrologic model using previously derived synthetic SWOT discharges across 39 gauges in the Ohio River Basin. Three discharge timeseries are used for calibration: daily observations, SWOT temporally sampled, and SWOT temporally sampled including estimated uncertainty. Using 10,000 model iterations to explore predefined parameter ranges, each discharge timeseries results in similar optimal model parameters. We find that the annual mean and peak flow values at each gauge location from the optimal parameter sets derived from each discharge timeseries differ by less than 10% percent on average. Our findings suggest that hydrologic models calibrated using discharges derived from SWOT’s non-uniform space–time sampling are likely to achieve results similar to those based on calibrating with in situ daily observations.
Validation of Carbon Trace Gas Profile Retrievals from the NOAA-Unique Combined Atmospheric Processing System for the Cross-Track Infrared Sounder
Authors: Nalli Nicholas R. , Tan Changyi , Warner Juying , Divakarla Murty , Gambacorta Antonia , Wilson Michael , Zhu Tong , Wang Tianyuan , Wei Zigang , Pryor Ken , Kalluri Satya , Zhou Lihang , Sweeney Colm , Baier Bianca C. , McKain Kathryn , Wunch Debra , Deutscher Nicholas M. , Hase Frank , Iraci Laura T. , Kivi Rigel , Morino Isamu , Notholt Justus , Ohyama Hirofumi , Pollard David F. , Té Yao , Velazco Voltaire A. , Warneke Thorsten , Sussmann Ralf , Rettinger Markus
Published: October 2020

This paper provides an overview of the validation of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) operational retrievals of atmospheric carbon trace gas profiles, specifically carbon monoxide (CO), methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2), from the NOAA-Unique Combined Atmospheric Processing System (NUCAPS), a NOAA enterprise algorithm that retrieves atmospheric profile environmental data records (EDRs) under global non-precipitating (clear to partly cloudy) conditions. Vertical information about atmospheric trace gases is obtained from the Cross-track Infrared Sounder (CrIS), an infrared Fourier transform spectrometer that measures high resolution Earth radiance spectra from NOAA operational low earth orbit (LEO) satellites, including the Suomi National Polar-orbiting Partnership (SNPP) and follow-on Joint Polar Satellite System (JPSS) series beginning with NOAA-20. The NUCAPS CO, CH4, and CO2 profile EDRs are rigorously validated in this paper using well-established independent truth datasets, namely total column data from ground-based Total Carbon Column Observing Network (TCCON) sites, and in situ vertical profile data obtained from aircraft and balloon platforms via the NASA Atmospheric Tomography (ATom) mission and NOAA AirCore sampler, respectively. Statistical analyses using these datasets demonstrate that the NUCAPS carbon gas profile EDRs generally meet JPSS Level 1 global performance requirements, with the absolute accuracy and precision of CO 5% and 15%, respectively, in layers where CrIS has vertical sensitivity; CH4 and CO2 product accuracies are both found to be within ±1%, with precisions of ≈1.5% and ⪅0.5%, respectively, throughout the tropospheric column.
Copula-Based Uncertainty Quantification (Copula-UQ) for Multi-Sensor Data in Structural Health Monitoring
Authors: Mu He-Qing , Liu Han-Teng , Shen Ji-Hui
Published: October 2020

The problem of uncertainty quantification (UQ) for multi-sensor data is one of the main concerns in structural health monitoring (SHM). One important task is multivariate joint probability density function (PDF) modelling. Copula-based statistical inference has attracted significant attention due to the fact that it decouples inferences on the univariate marginal PDF of each random variable and the statistical dependence structure (called copula) among the random variables. This paper proposes the Copula-UQ, composing multivariate joint PDF modelling, inference on model class selection and parameter identification, and probabilistic prediction using incomplete information, for multi-sensor data measured from a SHM system. Multivariate joint PDF is modeled based on the univariate marginal PDFs and the copula. Inference is made by combing the idea of the inference functions for margins and the maximum likelihood estimate. Prediction on the PDF of the target variable, using the complete (from normal sensors) or incomplete information (due to missing data caused by sensor fault issue) of the predictor variable, are made based on the multivariate joint PDF. One example using simulated data and one example using temperature data of a multi-sensor of a monitored bridge are presented to illustrate the capability of the Copula-UQ in joint PDF modelling and target variable prediction.
A New Association Scheme for Handling Node Mobility in Cluster-Tree Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Casagrande Rogério , Moraes Ricardo , Montez Carlos , Vasques Francisco , Leão Erico
Published: October 2020

Node mobility in multi-hop communication environments is an important feature of Wireless Sensor Network (WSN)-based monitoring systems. It allows nodes to have freedom of movement, without being restricted to a single-hop communication range. In IEEE 802.15.4 WSNs, nodes are only able to transfer data messages after completing a connection with a coordinator through an association mechanism. Within this context, a handover procedure needs to be executed by a mobile node whenever there is a disconnection from a coordinator and the establishment of a connection to another one. Many applications, such as those found in health monitoring systems, strongly need support for node mobility without loss of data during the handover. However, it has been observed that the time required to execute the handover procedure is one of the main reasons why IEEE 802.15.4 cannot fully support mobility. This paper proposes an improvement to this procedure using a set of combined strategies, such as anticipation of both the handover mechanism and the scan phase enhancement. Simulations show that it is possible to reduce latency during the association and re-association processes, making it feasible to develop WSN-based distributed monitoring systems with mobile nodes and stringent time constraints.