bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pregnenolone Sulfate Activates NMDA Receptor Channels
Authors: ADAMUSOVÁ E. , CAIS O. , VYKLICKÝ V. , KUDOVÁ E. , CHODOUNSKÁ H. , HORÁK M. , VYKLICKÝ L.
Published: August 2020

Pregnenolone sulfate (PS), an endogenously occurring neurosteroid, has been shown to modulate the activity of several neurotransmitter-gated channels, including the NMDA receptor (NMDAR). NMDARs are glutamate-gated ion channels involved in excitatory synaptic transmission, synaptic plasticity, and excitotoxicity. In this study, we analyzed the effects of PS on calcium signaling in cultured hippocampal neurons and HEK293 cells expressing NMDAR. The cells were loaded with the Ca2+ sensor Fura-2. In agreement with previous electrophysiological experiments, PS potentiated the increases in intracellular Ca2+ induced by an exogenous application of glutamate; however, PS also increased intracellular Ca2+ in the absence of exogenous NMDA agonist. The agonist-independent effect of PS was induced in all neurons studied and in HEK293 cells expressing GluN1/GluN2A-B receptors in a neurosteroid-specific manner. We conclude that PS is an endogenous NMDA agonist that activates the GluN1/GluN2A-B receptors.
Yerel ve Genel Seçimlerde Yolsuzluğun Oy Verme Davranışına Etkileri
Authors: DOĞAN Mustafa Kadir , EVRENK Haldun
Published: August 2020

Bu çalışma yolsuzluğun oy verme davranışına yerel ve genel seçimlerdeki etkilerini inceleyerek, seçmenin yolsuzluğa karşı verdiği tepkilerin bu seçimlerde nasıl farklılaştığını araştırmaktadır. Çalışmada iki temel araştırma sorusu bulunmaktadır: (i) Türkiye’de seçmenin politikacıları yolsuzluktan dolayı seçimlerde cezalandırması (politikacıların alacağı oy oranlarındaki azalma) yerel ve genel seçimlerde nasıl farklılaşmaktadır? (ii) Hâlihazırda yolsuzluğa bulaşmış mensubunu yeniden aday göstermek yerine seçimlere farklı bir adayla katılmak bir siyasi partinin oy oranını Türkiye’deki yerel ve genel seçimlerde nasıl etkilemektedir? Bu soruları seçmenden doğrudan toplanan bilgiyi kullanarak cevaplayabilmek için kısa tasvir (vignette) yöntemiyle tasarlanan bir anket, ikinci düzey İktisadi Bölge Birimleri Sınıflandırılmasına (İBBS) göre belirlenen 28 ilde, 3640 kişilik bir örneklem üzerinde uygulanmıştır. Bulunan ilk sonuç yolsuzluğun oy verme davranışına yerel seçimlerdeki etkisinin, genel seçimlere kıyasla daha az olduğunu göstermektedir. Adayın yolsuzluğa bulaşmış olmasını, seçmen yerel seçimlerde, genel seçimlere göre daha az önemsemektedir. Bir diğer sonuç, bir siyasi partinin yolsuzluk yapan seçilmiş bir mensubunun yerine bir sonraki seçimde başka bir aday göstermesinin, partinin alacağı oy oranını hem genel seçimlerde hem de yerel seçimlerde arttıracağıdır. Fakat, oy oranındaki bu artış, genel seçimlerde, yerel seçimlere göre daha yüksek olmaktadır. Sonuçların seçmenin cinsiyet, yaş, eğitim düzeyi, gelir seviyesi, çalışma durumu gibi demografik özelliklerine ve yaşadığı coğrafi bölgeye göre farklılık gösterip göstermediği de analiz edilmiş, bazı sonuçların farklılaştığı görülmüştür.
Blood pressure indicators in athletes of youth teams of Russian Federation in sample with dosed physical activity
Authors: Makarov L. M. , Komolyatova V. N. , Besportochny D. A. , Kiselyova I. I.
Published: August 2020

At present, there are no generally accepted normative values for blood pressure (BP) in athletes under exertion. Objective: to determine the normative parameters of blood pressure in young elite athletes in a test with dosed physical activity. 500 (229 girls and 271 boys) young elite athletes of 14–17 (15.8 ± 1.5) years old were examined, members of the youth teams of the Russian Federation, different in static and dynamic sports. The control group consisted of 36 healthy adolescents of the same age who are not involved in sports. All subjects underwent bicycle ergometry according to the PWC 170 protocol with an initial load of 1 W/kg, followed by an increase in load every 3 minutes by 25 W until a pulse of 170 bpm was reached or fatigue, blood pressure was measured manually according to the method of N. S. Korotkov at the end of each stage of the load. For young elite athletes, the maximum values of systolic blood pressure (SBP) on the load were significantly higher than for their peers who were not involved in sports (185 ± 20 vs 154 ± 15 mm Hg; p < 0.001). In a sample with dosed physical activity, the parameters of the SBP in young elite athletes can reach up to 230 mm Hg with an adequate increase in heart rate (heart rate ≥ 170 bpm.).
Meaning of innovative technologies for improvement of results in treating burned patients
Authors: Alekseev A. A. , Bobrovnikov A. E. , Bogdanov V. V.
Published: August 2020

In order to include innovative technologies in clinical recommendations, confirmation of their clinical effectiveness in comprehensive treatment of burned patients is necessary. 1,696 case histories of patients with burns were audited, which are divided into two groups depending on peculiarities of treatment. The use of innovative treatment technologies for burned patients has reduced the incidence of burn disease complications and mortality. Introduction of innovative technologies in treating burned patients into broad clinical practice improves results of provision of specialized, high-tech medical care for victims of burns.
The Politics of Anticolonial Resistance: Violence, Nonviolence, and the Erosion of the British Empire
Authors: McAlexander Richard
Published: August 2020

This paper studies conflict in a hierarchical international system, the British Empire. How did the British Empire respond to violent and nonviolent resistance within its colonies? I develop a theory explaining how and why the metropole becomes involved in and grants concessions to its colonies. In contrast to more recent work, I find that violence was more effective at coercing metropolitan concessions to the colonies in the British Empire than nonviolence. This theory is supported with a wide range of data, including yearly measures of anticolonial resistance, every colonial concession made by the British Empire after 1918, daily measures of metropolitan discussions of colonial issues from cabinet archives, and web-scraped casualty data from British death records. My findings show that the effectiveness of resistance is conditional on the political structure that it is embedded in and that hierarchy matters for understanding state responses to resistance.
Decreases in the number of repetitions between sets is indicative of concentric failure in strength training with trained men
Authors: Alves Rafael Ribeiro , Lopes Lorena Curado , Silva Weder Alves da , Silva Marcelo Henrique , Marques Vitor Alves , Santos Douglas de Assis Teles , Vieira Carlos Alexandre
Published: August 2020

The practice of strength training (ST) promotes several benefits such as increased strength, endurance, muscle strength, hypertrophy, as well as changes in body composition. Concentric failure (CF)Several studies show that exercise until CF may be more efficient in promoting positive adaptations about hypertrophy and muscle strength, however, it is still unclear at which time of the exercise CF is achieved. The number of repetitions (NR) performed in each set may be influenced by fatigue caused by CF training. The objective was to analyze the response of the NR between sets as indicative of CF within a session of ST. The study included fourteen trained men (25.0 ± 3.5 years old) (5 ± 4 years) who performed three sets with 75% of 1(repetition maximum) (RM) until CF with fixed rest interval between sets. Statistical analysis: Data normality was tested according to the Shapiro-Wilk test. Subsequently the one-way ANOVA of repeated measures was used to compare the variance of the means between the moments and, when necessary, the post hoc test was used for multiple comparisons using Bonferroni correction. Percentage variations of decreasing NR between sets were found, being from the 1st vs. 2nd set (45,3 ± 14,6 %;), 2nd vs. 3rd set (41,4 ± 19,5%), and 1st vs. 3rd set (67,8 ± 15,1%). The NR can be used to identify if the exercise is being performed up to the CF, considering that the NR between sets decreases substantially due to acute metabolic changes.
Museus, artes e olhares: as perspectivas de docentes e crianças em espaços inclusivos
Authors: Gedra Bruno , Kobelinski Michel
Published: August 2020

Resenha de livro.
Development and Characterization of a New Endoscopic Drug-Eluting Platform With Proven Efficacy in Acute and Chronic Experimental Colitis
Authors: Bon Ignacio , Cano-Sarabia Mary , de la Ossa Napoleon , Bartolí Ramon , Lorenzo-Zúñiga Vicente
Published: August 2020

Background and Aims: Mucosal lesions refractory to biological treatments represent unmet needs in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that require new treatment modalities. We developed and characterized a new endoscopic drug-eluting hydrogel (CoverGel) with proven efficacy in acute and chronic experimental colitis (EC) in rats.

Methods: CoverGel was developed based on appropriate rheological, drug release, gelation, structural, and degradation property capacities to allow endoscopic application. Experimental colitis (EC) was induced by TNBS application in rats. In acute EC 40, rats were randomized in five groups (eight each): Sham, Control, CoverGel, CoverGel + Infliximab (IFX) and CoverGel + Vedolizumab (VDZ). In chronic EC, 12 rats were randomized in two groups (six each): IFX s.c. and CoverGel + IFX. Endoscopic, histological, and blood test were performed during follow-up to evaluate clinical success. Antibodies to IFX (ATIs) were evaluated in chronic EC animal study.

Results: CoverGel is a biocompatible and bioadhesive reverse thermosensitive gelation hydrogel with a macroporous structure and drug release capacity. In acute EC animals treated with CoverGel + IFX or CoverGel + VDZ showed significantly clinical success (weight recovery, mucosal restoration, and bacterial translocation) as compared with controls and animals without a bioactive drug. In a chronic EC animal study, clinical efficacy was comparable in both groups. Levels of ATIs were significantly lower in animals treated with CoverGel + IFX vs. IFX s.c. (0.90 ± 0.06 μg/mL-c vs. 1.97 ± 0.66 μg/mL-c, p = 0.0025).

Conclusions: CoverGel is an endoscopic vehicle to locally deliver biological drugs with proven efficacy in acute and chronic EC in rats and induce less immunogenicity reaction.
Pre-Clinical Cell Therapeutic Approaches for Repair of Volumetric Muscle Loss
Authors: Shayan Mahdis , Huang Ngan F.
Published: August 2020

Extensive damage to skeletal muscle tissue due to volumetric muscle loss (VML) is beyond the inherent regenerative capacity of the body, and results in permanent functional debilitation. Current clinical treatments fail to fully restore native muscle function. Recently, cell-based therapies have emerged as a promising approach to promote skeletal muscle regeneration following injury and/or disease. Stem cell populations, such as muscle stem cells, mesenchymal stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), have shown a promising capacity for muscle differentiation. Support cells, such as endothelial cells, nerve cells or immune cells, play a pivotal role in providing paracrine signaling cues for myogenesis, along with modulating the processes of inflammation, angiogenesis and innervation. The efficacy of cell therapies relies on the provision of instructive microenvironmental cues and appropriate intercellular interactions. This review describes the recent developments of cell-based therapies for the treatment of VML, with a focus on preclinical testing and future trends in the field.
Neutralizing Effects of Small Molecule Inhibitors and Metal Chelators on Coagulopathic Viperinae Snake Venom Toxins
Authors: Xie Chunfang , Albulescu Laura-Oana , Bittenbinder Mátyás A. , Somsen Govert W. , Vonk Freek J. , Casewell Nicholas R. , Kool Jeroen
Published: August 2020

Animal-derived antivenoms are the only specific therapies currently available for the treatment of snake envenoming, but these products have a number of limitations associated with their efficacy, safety and affordability for use in tropical snakebite victims. Small molecule drugs and drug candidates are regarded as promising alternatives for filling the critical therapeutic gap between snake envenoming and effective treatment. In this study, by using an advanced analytical technique that combines chromatography, mass spectrometry and bioassaying, we investigated the effect of several small molecule inhibitors that target phospholipase A2 (varespladib) and snake venom metalloproteinase (marimastat, dimercaprol and DMPS) toxin families on inhibiting the activities of coagulopathic toxins found in Viperinae snake venoms. The venoms of Echis carinatus, Echis ocellatus, Daboia russelii and Bitis arietans, which are known for their potent haemotoxicities, were fractionated in high resolution onto 384-well plates using liquid chromatography followed by coagulopathic bioassaying of the obtained fractions. Bioassay activities were correlated to parallel recorded mass spectrometric and proteomics data to assign the venom toxins responsible for coagulopathic activity and assess which of these toxins could be neutralized by the inhibitors under investigation. Our results showed that the phospholipase A2-inhibitor varespladib neutralized the vast majority of anticoagulation activities found across all of the tested snake venoms. Of the snake venom metalloproteinase inhibitors, marimastat demonstrated impressive neutralization of the procoagulation activities detected in all of the tested venoms, whereas dimercaprol and DMPS could only partially neutralize these activities at the doses tested. Our results provide additional support for the concept that combinations of small molecules, particularly the combination of varespladib with marimastat, serve as a drug-repurposing opportunity to develop new broad-spectrum inhibitor-based therapies for snakebite envenoming.
The Diagnostic Accuracy of Mutant KRAS Detection from Pancreatic Secretions for the Diagnosis of Pancreatic Cancer: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Patel Nikhil , Petrinic Tatjana , Silva Michael , Soonawalla Zahir , Reddy Srikanth , Gordon-Weeks Alex
Published: August 2020

This meta-analysis aims to identify the diagnostic accuracy of mutations in the Kirsten Rat Sarcoma (KRAS) oncogene in the diagnosis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). The survival of PDAC remains poor often due to the fact that disease is advanced at diagnosis. We analysed 22 studies, with a total of 2156 patients, to identify if the detection of KRAS mutations from pancreatic exocrine secretions yields sufficient specificity and sensitivity to detect patients with PDAC amongst healthy individuals. The majority of the studies were retrospective, samples were obtained endoscopically or surgically, and included comparator populations of patients with chronic pancreatitis and pre-malignant pancreatic lesions (PanIN) as well as healthy controls. We performed several analyses to identify the diagnostic accuracy for PDAC among these patient populations. Our results highlighted that the diagnostic accuracy of KRAS mutation for PDAC was of variable sensitivity and specificity when compared with PanINs and chronic pancreatitis, but had a higher specificity among healthy individuals. The sensitivity of this test must be improved to prevent missing early PDAC or PanINs. This could be achieved with rigorous prospective cohort studies, in which high-risk patients with normal cross-sectional imaging undergo surveillance following KRAS mutation testing.
Matrix Metalloproteinase-11 Promotes Early Mouse Mammary Gland Tumor Growth through Metabolic Reprogramming and Increased IGF1/AKT/FoxO1 Signaling Pathway, Enhanced ER Stress and Alteration in Mitochondrial UPR
Authors: Tan Bing , Jaulin Amélie , Bund Caroline , Outilaft Hassiba , Wendling Corinne , Chenard Marie-Pierrette , Alpy Fabien , Cicek A. Ercüment , Namer Izzie J. , Tomasetto Catherine , Dali-Youcef Nassim
Published: August 2020

Matrix metalloproteinase 11 (MMP11) is an extracellular proteolytic enzyme belonging to the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP11) family. These proteases are involved in extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and activation of latent factors. MMP11 is a negative regulator of adipose tissue development and controls energy metabolism in vivo. In cancer, MMP11 expression is associated with poorer survival, and preclinical studies in mice showed that MMP11 accelerates tumor growth. How the metabolic role of MMP11 contributes to cancer development is poorly understood. To address this issue, we developed a series of preclinical mouse mammary gland tumor models by genetic engineering. Tumor growth was studied in mice either deficient (Loss of Function-LOF) or overexpressing MMP11 (Gain of Function-GOF) crossed with a transgenic model of breast cancer induced by the polyoma middle T antigen (PyMT) driven by the murine mammary tumor virus promoter (MMTV) (MMTV-PyMT). Both GOF and LOF models support roles for MMP11, favoring early tumor growth by increasing proliferation and reducing apoptosis. Of interest, MMP11 promotes Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 (IGF1)/protein kinase B (AKT)/Forkhead box protein O1 (FoxO1) signaling and is associated with a metabolic switch in the tumor, activation of the endoplasmic reticulum stress response, and an alteration in the mitochondrial unfolded protein response with decreased proteasome activity. In addition, high resonance magic angle spinning (HRMAS) metabolomics analysis of tumors from both models established a metabolic signature that favors tumorigenesis when MMP11 is overexpressed. These data support the idea that MMP11 contributes to an adaptive metabolic response, named metabolic flexibility, promoting cancer growth.
Comparison of Same Carbon Chain Length Cationic and Anionic Surfactant Adsorption on Silica
Authors: Li Pengxiang , Li Tiejian , Ishiguro Munehide , Su Yang
Published: August 2020

Adsorption of a cationic surfactant dodecyl pyridinium chloride (DPC) on silica was studied to show a comparison with the adsorption of an anionic surfactant sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), whose carbon chain length is the same and on the same silica. Results provided a better understanding of the adsorption mechanism of cationic and anionic surfactant on negatively charged silica. The experiment covered different electrolyte concentrations and pH values. Results indicated that at the same pH, the DPC adsorption amounts are higher when the electrolyte concentration is higher; at a higher DPC equilibrium concentration, the adsorption amount difference is larger than that at low DPC equilibrium concentration, and when DPC equilibrium concentration is lower than 0.1 mmol/L, the adsorption amount difference cannot be observed. At charge compensation point (CCP, 0 zeta potential), the negative surface charge of silica was compensated by DP+, a continuous increasing zeta potential indicated a bilayer adsorption of DPC on silica. The adsorption amount increased with increasing pH. The calculated lines by Gu and Zhu model show a two-step property, including a bilayer and hemi-micelle adsorption. DPC adsorbed more strongly on silica than SDS due to the combination of electrostatic and hydrophobic attraction.
A Modification of Gradient Descent Method for Solving Coefficient Inverse Problem for Acoustics Equations
Authors: Klyuchinskiy Dmitriy , Novikov Nikita , Shishlenin Maxim
Published: August 2020

We investigate the mathematical model of the 2D acoustic waves propagation in a heterogeneous domain. The hyperbolic first order system of partial differential equations is considered and solved by the Godunov method of the first order of approximation. This is a direct problem with appropriate initial and boundary conditions. We solve the coefficient inverse problem (IP) of recovering density. IP is reduced to an optimization problem, which is solved by the gradient descent method. The quality of the IP solution highly depends on the quantity of IP data and positions of receivers. We introduce a new approach for computing a gradient in the descent method in order to use as much IP data as possible on each iteration of descent.
The Effects of Pension Information on Individuals’ Economic Outcomes: A Survey
Authors: Basiglio Stefania , Oggero Noemi
Published: August 2020

This paper provides an overview of a wide array of research investigating the effects of pension information on different individuals’ economic outcomes. While many studies show that information provision increases knowledge, the evidence is mixed regarding its effects on behavior. Nevertheless, we draw some conclusions about the impact of pension information on three major economic outcomes, namely, retirement planning, choices pertaining individuals’ labor supply, and savings decisions. We also highlight that the lack of knowledge prevalently hits the most vulnerable individuals in the society, such as women. As a consequence, not providing sufficient information could contribute to widening the gender gap in pensions.
Awareness, Policy, Privacy, and More: Post-Secondary Students Voice Their Solutions to Cyberbullying
Authors: Faucher Chantal , Cassidy Wanda , Jackson Margaret
Published: August 2020

This paper discusses solutions to cyberbullying posed by post-secondary students from four Canadian universities. The qualitative data used in this analysis were drawn from one open-ended question on an online student survey completed by 1458 undergraduate students, as well as 10 focus group transcripts involving a total of 36 students. Seven key themes emerged: awareness and education; policy; protecting one’s privacy; technology-based solutions; empowering better choices and responses; university culture; and disciplinary measures. The findings show that post-secondary institutions need to make preventing and curtailing cyberbullying more of a priority within their campus communities, including engaging in responsive consultation with key stakeholder groups, such as students, to develop meaningful solutions.
Advanced Adsorbent Materials for Waste Energy Recovery
Authors: Bonaccorsi Lucio , Fotia Antonio , Malara Angela , Frontera Patrizia
Published: August 2020

Nowadays, waste thermal energy represents a huge quantity of energy that, in most cases, is unfortunately dispersed rather than recovered. Although it is well known that its recovery could result in a considerable impact reduction of human activities on the environment, it is still a challenging issue. In view of this, absorption chillers and heat pumps, based on the use of porous materials capable of reversibly adsorbing and desorbing water vapor, can be considered among the preferred systems to recover waste thermal energy, especially at medium–low temperatures. This study deals with the preparation and performance of a new generation of advanced adsorbent materials specifically produced as coatings for water adsorption systems driven by low temperature heat sources (around 150 °C). The proposed coating consists of hybrid SAPO-34/polyacrilonitrile microfibers directly deposited on the surface to be coated by means of the electrospinning technique. Their zeolite morphology and concentrations, as well as their distribution over the polymeric microfibers, were key variables in achieving the best combination of adsorption properties and hydrothermal stability of the coating.
Rack Temperature Prediction Model Using Machine Learning after Stopping Computer Room Air Conditioner in Server Room
Authors: Sasakura Kosuke , Aoki Takeshi , Komatsu Masayoshi , Watanabe Takeshi
Published: August 2020

Data centers (DCs) are becoming increasingly important in recent years, and highly efficient and reliable operation and management of DCs is now required. The generated heat density of the rack and information and communication technology (ICT) equipment is predicted to get higher in the future, so it is crucial to maintain the appropriate temperature environment in the server room where high heat is generated in order to ensure continuous service. It is especially important to predict changes of rack intake temperature in the server room when the computer room air conditioner (CRAC) is shut down, which can cause a rapid rise in temperature. However, it is quite difficult to predict the rack temperature accurately, which in turn makes it difficult to determine the impact on service in advance. In this research, we propose a model that predicts the rack intake temperature after the CRAC is shut down. Specifically, we use machine learning to construct a gradient boosting decision tree model with data from the CRAC, ICT equipment, and rack intake temperature. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method has a very high prediction accuracy: the coefficient of determination was 0.90 and the root mean square error (RMSE) was 0.54. Our model makes it possible to evaluate the impact on service and determine if action to maintain the temperature environment is required. We also clarify the effect of explanatory variables and training data of the machine learning on the model accuracy.
Low-Cost I–V Tracer for PV Modules under Real Operating Conditions
Authors: Cáceres Manuel , Firman Andrés , Montes-Romero Jesús , González Mayans Alexis Raúl , Vera Luis Horacio , F. Fernández Eduardo , de la Casa Higueras Juan
Published: August 2020

Solar photovoltaic technologies have undergone significant scientific development. To ensure the transfer of knowledge through the training of qualified personnel, didactic tools that can be acquired or built at a reasonable price are needed. Most training and research centres have restrictions on acquiring specific equipment due to its high cost. With this in mind, this article presents the development and transfer of a low-cost I–V curve tracer acquisition system. The device is made up of embedded systems with all the necessary hardware and software for its operation. The hardware and software presented are open source and have a low cost, i.e., the estimated material cost of the system is less than 200 euros. For its development, four institutions from three different countries participated in the project. Three photovoltaic technologies were used to measure the uncertainties related to the equipment developed. In addition, the system can be transferred for use as an academic or research tool, as long as the measurement does not need to be certified. Two accredited laboratories have certified the low uncertainties in the measurement of the proposed system.
Application of Phase Change Material-Based Thermal Capacitor in Double Tube Heat Exchanger—A Numerical Investigation
Authors: Fong Matthew , Kurnia Jundika , Sasmito Agus P.
Published: August 2020

In many heat transfer related applications, there is a need for a stable, constant supply temperature. As a result, the integration of intermittent renewable sources of heat into these processes can prove to be challenging, requiring special temperature smoothing devices or strategies. This study focuses on the application of phase change materials integrated into a double tube heat exchanger as a possible thermal smoothing device. The objective of this study is to evaluate the ability of the exchanger to smoothen out temperature variations within the cold stream outlet while the hot stream is subject to oscillating inlet conditions. A computational fluid dynamics approach is used where a numerical model is developed, validated and then used to model the conjugate heat transfer within the heat exchanger. Four organic phase change materials (PCM) with different phase change temperatures were selected for investigation (myristic, octadecane, eicosane, and wax) to study the relationship between melting temperature and stabilization performance. A parametric study was then conducted by varying the Reynolds number of the flow as well as temperature oscillation period and amplitude to study the sensitivity of the system. The results confirm the potential of a phase change material-based thermal capacitor at dampening oscillations across the heat exchanger.
Prototyping a Geospatial Atlas for Wildfire Planning and Management
Authors: Thompson Matthew P. , Gannon Benjamin M. , Caggiano Michael D. , O’Connor Christopher D. , Brough April , Gilbertson-Day Julie W. , Scott Joe H.
Published: August 2020

Wildland fire managers are increasingly embracing risk management principles by being more anticipatory, proactive, and “engaging the fire before it starts”. This entails investing in pre-season, cross-boundary, strategic fire response planning with partners and stakeholders to build a shared understanding of wildfire risks and management opportunities. A key innovation in planning is the development of potential operational delineations (PODs), i.e., spatial management units whose boundaries are relevant to fire containment operations (e.g., roads, ridgetops, and fuel transitions), and within which potential fire consequences, suppression opportunities/challenges, and strategic response objectives can be analyzed to inform fire management decision making. As of the summer of 2020, PODs have been developed on more than forty landscapes encompassing National Forest System lands across the western USA, providing utility for planning, communication, mitigation prioritization, and incident response strategy development. Here, we review development of a decision support tool—a POD Atlas—intended to facilitate cross-boundary, collaborative strategic wildfire planning and management by providing high-resolution information on landscape conditions, values at risk, and fire management resource needs for individual PODs. With the atlas, users can rapidly access and assimilate multiple forms of pre-loaded data and analytics in a customizable manner. We prototyped and operationalized this tool in concert with, and for use by, fire managers on several National Forests in the Southern Rocky Mountains of the USA. We present examples, discuss real-world use cases, and highlight opportunities for continued decision support improvement.
Zooplankton Feeding Induces Macroscopical Gonad Malformations in Whitefish (Coregonus ssp.) from Lake Thun, Switzerland
Authors: Bernet Daniel , Wahli Thomas , Küng Christoph , Segner Helmut
Published: August 2020

Alterations in gonad morphology are widespread in wild fish populations. Whitefish (Coregonus spp.) from Lake Thun, Switzerland, display a high prevalence of macroscopical gonad malformations including fusions to the musculature, segmented gonads and intersex condition. The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether the gonad morphological changes in Lake Thun whitefish are caused by genetic factors, environmental factors (water, diet) or “gene × environment” interaction. We performed two independent experiments of a three-year duration in which we reared whitefish from fertilization until adulthood and tested the possible causative factors using a matrix design: (i) genetics—comparing the prevalence of gonad malformations in whitefish of different genetic origin reared under identical environmental conditions (same diet, same water, same experimental facility); (ii) environment—comparing the prevalence of gonad malformations in whitefish of the same genetic origin reared in different water sources and/or fed with different diets; and (iii) gene-environment interaction—comparing the prevalence of gonad morphological alterations in relation to the combinations of genetics and environmental factors. Two diets were used for the rearing experiments: either zooplankton collected in Lake Thun which represents the natural diet of whitefish, or an artificial dry food which was used as control. The key finding of this study is that the inducing factor of the gonad malformations is contained in the zooplankton of Lake Thun. Fish fed with this diet developed a significantly higher prevalence of malformations than fish from any other treatment, irrespective of the genetic origin and/or the water source. This result could be repeated in the two independent experiments. Importantly, the prevalence values observed in the experimental fish fed with Lake Thun zooplankton were similar to the prevalence values recorded in free-ranging whitefish in the lake. The findings of this study advance the understanding of the causes of gonad morphological alterations in wild fish populations.
Interpopulation Similarity of Sex and Age-Related Body Composition Variations Among Older Adults
Authors: Marini Elisabetta , Buffa Roberto , Gobbo Luis Alberto , Salinas-Escudero Guillermo , Stagi Silvia , García-Peña Carmen , Sánchez-García Sergio , Carrillo-Vega María Fernanda
Published: August 2020

The aim of the study was to analyze sex and age-related body composition variations among older adults from the Brazilian, Italian, and Mexican population. A cross-sectional analysis was conducted in 1103 community-dwelling older adults (634 women and 469 men), aged 60 to 89 years, living in Brazil (n = 176), Italy (n = 554), and Mexico (n = 373). Anthropometric measurements were taken, BMI was calculated, and impedance measurements were obtained (resistance, R, reactance, Xc). Specific bioelectrical impedance vector analysis (specific BIVA) was applied, with the specific vector defined by impedance, or vector length (Z = (Rsp2 + Xcsp)0.5), and phase angle (PA = arctan Xc/R 180/π). Population, sex, and age differences in anthropometric and bioelectrical variables were evaluated by means of a two way ANOVA. The mean bioelectrical vectors were graphed by confidence ellipses and statistically compared by the Hotelling’s T2 test. The three population groups showed differences in body mass and composition (p < 0.001): the Brazilian sample was characterized by greater body dimensions, longer vectors (higher relative content of fat mass), and lower phase angles (lower skeletal muscle mass). Men were taller and heavier than women (p < 0.001) but had a similar BMI (p = 0.102). They also had higher phase angle (higher skeletal muscle mass) (p < 0.001) and lower vector length (lower %FM) (p < 0.001). In the three population groups, the oldest individuals showed lower anthropometric and phase angle values with respect to the youngest ones (p < 0.001), whereas the vector length did not change significantly with age (p = 0.665). Despite the differences between sexes and among populations, the trend of age-related variations was similar in the Brazilian, Italian, and Mexican older adults.
Mobile and Online Health Information: Exploring Digital Media Use among Austrian Parents
Authors: Haluza Daniela , Böhm Isabella
Published: August 2020

In today’s digitalized world, most parents are Internet-savvy and use online sources for child health information, mainly due to the 24/7 availability of advice. However, parents are often not specifically trained to identify reliable, evidence-based sources of information. In this cross-sectional online survey among a purposive, non-probabilistic sample of Austrian parents (n = 90, 81.1% females), we assessed aspects of health app use and family policy benefits-related and scenario-based Internet seeking behavior. We found that the surveyed parents showed a high health app use. The participants indicated that they prefer online information seeking to any other option in a scenario describing that their child would be sick at after-work hours, with social media channels being the least preferred source of online information. Mothers and younger parents were more likely to retrieve online information on family policy benefits. With the smartphone in everybody’s pocket, parents seemed to rely on mobile and online content when searching for child health information. Pediatricians are best suited to decide what treatment fits the child or their current medical condition, but nowadays they face increasing numbers of pre-informed parents seeking health information online. Provision of targeted parental education and guidance through the online information jungle could effectively empower parents and smooth personal and digital contacts in the delicate doctor–parent–child triangle.
The Condition of Air Pollution in Kraków, Poland, in 2005–2020, with Health Risk Assessment
Authors: Traczyk Paulina , Gruszecka-Kosowska Agnieszka
Published: August 2020

Aims: Air quality changes with human health risk assessment were investigated. Methods: The measurement results obtained by the Regional Environmental Protection Inspectorate (REPI) in Kraków and our deposited particulate-matter (PM) analysis, as well as United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) methodology of risk assessment were used in the study. Results: Annual pollutant contents kept decreasing, with the exception of O3. However, the permissible annual levels were exceeded in the cases of PM10, PM2.5, and NO2. Increased contents of SO2, CO, C6H6, PM10, and PM2.5, as well as of As, Pb, Cd, Ni, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in PM particles during winter months indicated that house heating was the source of pollution. Due to no significant change in the monthly NO2 contents, this measurement was used as an indicator of traffic sources of pollution. In winter months, the allowable 24 h PM2.5 and PM10 contents were constantly exceeded. PM was identified as the most significant air pollutant. Enrichment factors revealed that deposited PM was enriched with heavy metals. The potential ecological risk (ERI) was determined to be very high for Cd, considerable for Zn, and low for As, Co, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Tl. The total non-carcinogenic risk indices (HQ) for both adults (HQ = 15.0) and children (HQ = 26.4) exceeded the acceptable value of 1. The total carcinogenic risk indices (CR) for both adults (CR = 1.51 × 10−4) and children (CR = 1.77 × 10−4) exceeded the acceptable level of 1 × 10−4. Conclusions: In the years 2005–2020, a general decreasing tendency of annual pollutant contents was observed. However, the permissible contaminant contents were still exceeded. PM2.5, BaP, PM10, and NO2 were determined as the most dangerous pollutants in inhalational pathway.
Therapeutic Potential of Cathelicidin Peptide LL-37, an Antimicrobial Agent, in a Murine Sepsis Model
Authors: Nagaoka Isao , Tamura Hiroshi , Reich Johannes
Published: August 2020

Among the mechanisms put-up by the host to defend against invading microorganisms, antimicrobial peptides represent the first line. In different species of mammals, the cathelicidin family of antimicrobial peptides AMPs has been identified, and in humans, LL-37 is the only type of cathelicidin identified. LL-37 has many different biological activities, such as regulation of responses to inflammation, besides its lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-neutralizing and antimicrobial and activities. Recently, employing a murine septic model that involves cecal ligation and puncture (CLP), we examined the effect of LL-37. The results indicated that LL-37 exhibits multiple protective actions on septic mice; firstly, the survival of CLP mice was found to be improved by LL-37 by the suppression of the macrophage pyroptosis that induces the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines (such as IL-1β) and augments inflammatory reactions in sepsis; secondly, the release of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), which have potent bactericidal activity, is enhanced by LL-37, and protects mice from CLP-induced sepsis; thirdly, LL-37 stimulates neutrophils to release antimicrobial microvesicles (ectosomes), which improve the pathological condition of sepsis. These findings indicate that LL-37 protects CLP septic mice through at least three mechanisms, i.e., the suppression of pro-inflammatory macrophage pyroptosis and the release of antimicrobial NETs (induction of NETosis) and ectosomes from neutrophils. Thus, LL-37 can be a potential therapeutic candidate for sepsis due to its multiple properties, including the modulation of cell death (pyroptosis and NETosis) and the release of antimicrobial NETs and ectosomes as well as its own bactericidal and LPS-neutralizing activities.
Wild and Cultivated Species of Rice Have Distinctive Proteomic Responses to Drought
Authors: Hamzelou Sara , Kamath Karthik Shantharam , Masoomi-Aladizgeh Farhad , Johnsen Matthew M. , Atwell Brian J. , Haynes Paul A.
Published: August 2020

Drought often compromises yield in non-irrigated crops such as rainfed rice, imperiling the communities that depend upon it as a primary food source. In this study, two cultivated species (Oryza sativa cv. Nipponbare and Oryza glaberrima cv. CG14) and an endemic, perennial Australian wild species (Oryza australiensis) were grown in soil at 40% field capacity for 7 d (drought). The hypothesis was that the natural tolerance of O. australiensis to erratic water supply would be reflected in a unique proteomic profile. Leaves from droughted plants and well-watered controls were harvested for label-free quantitative shotgun proteomics. Physiological and gene ontology analysis confirmed that O. australiensis responded uniquely to drought, with superior leaf water status and enhanced levels of photosynthetic proteins. Distinctive patterns of protein accumulation in drought were observed across the O. australiensis proteome. Photosynthetic and stress-response proteins were more abundant in drought-affected O. glaberrima than O. sativa, and were further enriched in O. australiensis. In contrast, the level of accumulation of photosynthetic proteins decreased when O. sativa underwent drought, while a narrower range of stress-responsive proteins showed increased levels of accumulation. Distinctive proteomic profiles and the accumulated levels of individual proteins with specific functions in response to drought in O. australiensis indicate the importance of this species as a source of stress tolerance genes.
Transcriptional Changes Involved in Atrophying Muscles during Prolonged Fasting in Rats
Authors: Ibrahim Marianne , Wasselin Thierry , Challet Etienne , Van Dorsselaer Alain , Le Maho Yvon , Raclot Thierry , Bertile Fabrice
Published: August 2020

Food deprivation resulting in muscle atrophy may be detrimental to health. To better understand how muscle mass is regulated during such a nutritional challenge, the current study deciphered muscle responses during phase 2 (P2, protein sparing) and phase 3 (P3, protein mobilization) of prolonged fasting in rats. This was done using transcriptomics analysis and a series of biochemistry measurements. The main findings highlight changes for plasma catabolic and anabolic stimuli, as well as for muscle transcriptome, energy metabolism, and oxidative stress. Changes were generally consistent with the intense use of lipids as fuels during P2. They also reflected increased muscle protein degradation and repressed synthesis, in a more marked manner during P3 than P2 compared to the fed state. Nevertheless, several unexpected changes appeared to be in favor of muscle protein synthesis during fasting, notably at the level of the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway, transcription and translation processes, and the response to oxidative stress. Such mechanisms might promote protein sparing during P2 and prepare the restoration of the protein compartment during P3 in anticipation of food intake for optimizing the effects of an upcoming refeeding, thereby promoting body maintenance and survival. Future studies should examine relevance of such targets for improving nitrogen balance during catabolic diseases.
Diverse Roles for Hyaluronan and Hyaluronan Receptors in the Developing and Adult Nervous System
Authors: Peters Alec , Sherman Larry S.
Published: August 2020

Hyaluronic acid (HA) plays a vital role in the extracellular matrix of neural tissues. Originally thought to hydrate tissues and provide mechanical support, it is now clear that HA is also a complex signaling molecule that can regulate cell processes in the developing and adult nervous systems. Signaling properties are determined by molecular weight, bound proteins, and signal transduction through specific receptors. HA signaling regulates processes such as proliferation, differentiation, migration, and process extension in a variety of cell types including neural stem cells, neurons, astrocytes, microglia, and oligodendrocyte progenitors. The synthesis and catabolism of HA and the expression of HA receptors are altered in disease and influence neuroinflammation and disease pathogenesis. This review discusses the roles of HA, its synthesis and breakdown, as well as receptor expression in neurodevelopment, nervous system function and disease.
Peripheral Cytokine Levels Differ by HPV Status and Change Treatment-Dependently in Patients with Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Mytilineos Daphne , Ezić Jasmin , von Witzleben Adrian , Mytilineos Joannis , Lotfi Ramin , Fürst Daniel , Tsamadou Chrysanthi , Theodoraki Marie-Nicole , Oster Angelika , Völkel Gunnar , Kestler Hans A. , Brunner Cornelia , Schuler Patrick J. , Doescher Johannes , Hoffmann Thomas K. , Laban Simon
Published: August 2020

Cytokines and immune mediators play an important role in the communication between immune cells guiding their response to infectious diseases or cancer. In this study, a comprehensive longitudinal analysis of serum cytokines and immune mediators in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients was performed. In a prospective, non-interventional, longitudinal study, blood samples from 22 HNSCC patients were taken at defined time points (TP) before, during, and every 3 months after completion of (chemo)radio)therapy (CRT/RT) until 12 months after treatment. Serum concentrations of 17 cytokines/immune mediators and High-Mobility-Group-Protein B1 (HMGB1) were measured by fluorescent bead array and ELISA. Concentrations of sFas were significantly elevated during and after CRT/RT, whereas perforin levels were significantly decreased after CRT/RT. Levels of MIP-1β and Granzyme B differed significantly during CRT/RT by HPV status. Increased HMGB1 levels were observed at recurrence, accompanied by high levels of IL-4 and IL-10. The sFas increase and simultaneous perforin decrease may indicate an impaired immune cell function during adjuvant radiotherapy. Increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in HPV+ compared to HPV− patients seem to reflect the elevated immunogenicity of HPV-positive tumors. High levels of HMGB1 and anti-inflammatory cytokines at recurrence may be interpreted as a sign of immune evasion.
Microbiota-Associated Therapy for Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis-Induced Liver Cancer: A Review
Authors: Chen Yi-Hsun , Wu Wei-Kai , Wu Ming-Shiang
Published: August 2020

Even though advancement in medicine has contributed to the control of many diseases to date, cancer therapy continues to pose several challenges. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) etiology is multifactorial. Recently, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has been considered as an important risk factor of HCC. NAFLD can be divided into non-alcoholic simple fatty liver (NAFL) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) based on histopathological features. Recently, studies have indicated that the gut microbiota is associated with NAFLD and HCC. Therefore, in this review, we have discussed the effects of gut microbiota-related mechanisms, including dysbiosis and gut barrier function, and gut microbiota-derived metabolites on NAFLD and HCC pathogenesis and the potential therapeutic strategies for NAFLD and HCC. With a better understanding of the gut microbiota composition and function, new and improved diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic strategies for common liver diseases can be developed.