bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance Driven Culture in the Public Sector: The Case of Nordic Countries
Authors: Kotková Stříteská Michaela , Sein Yee Yee
Published: January 2021

Public sector organizations face a lack of efficiency and ineffectiveness in providing their mandates due to fear of change among the public service workers. Public sector managers can instill a high performance-driven culture in employees of the public sector. For this reason, the study aims to define a set of key characteristics of organizational culture that contribute to effective performance measurement and management of public sector organizations. The qualitative research method is employed in this paper using case study comparative analysis. To get the objectives of the study, selected local governments from three different Nordic countries are analyzed. As discovered from the case study analysis, these local governments have successfully constructed and implemented performance measurement and management systems. Concurrently, they practice performance-driven culture key characteristics to achieve their organizational targets without any significant difficulties. Three key characteristics (strong performance-driven leadership, report and communicate performance, review and discuss performance) are used in all selected local governments, and one (the reward system) is missing. All four key characteristics are employed only in Helsinki, which is a benchmark for other local governments. This study’s results can thus serve as an example of best practice for other public sector organizations within Europe.
Protein and Energy Requirements for Maintenance and Growth in Juvenile Meagre Argyrosomus regius (Asso, 1801) (Sciaenidae)
Authors: Jauralde Ignacio , Velazco-Vargas Jorge , Tomás-Vidal Ana , Jover Cerdá Miguel , Martínez-Llorens Silvia
Published: January 2021

The meagre is a carnivorous species and might be a suitable candidate species for the diversification of aquaculture in the Mediterranean region. This is based on its high growth and flesh quality. Nevertheless, there is little information available about its growth rates and nutrient requirements. The objective of this study was to determine the protein and energy requirements of juvenile meagre (Argyrosomus regius). Two trials for different weights of 53 and 188 g were conducted with rations from starvation to apparent satiation with the scope of studying its nutritional needs. In the first trial, the initial mean body weight of the fish was 53 g, and they were fed at feeding rates, measured as a percentage of the body weight, of 0, 0.75, 1.5, 2.5, 3.5, and 4.5%, with two replicates per treatment. In a second trial, another group with approximately 188 g of initial body weight was fed at feeding rates of 0, 0.5, 1.5, and 2.5%, with two replicates per treatment. The optimum thermal growth coefficient was obtained with a feed intake of 2.2% day−1 in trial A and 1.73% day−1 in trial B. The digestible protein (DP) intake for maintenance was determined as 0.57 g kg−0.7 day−1, the DP intake for maximum growth was 6.0 g kg−0.7 day−1, and the point for maximum efficiency in protein retention was 1.8 g kg−0.7 day−1. The requirement for digestible energy (DE) intake for maintenance was recorded at 25.4 kJ kg−0.82 day−1, the DE intake to maximize growth was 365 kJ kg−0.82 day−1, and the point for maximum efficiency in energy retention occurs with a digestible energy intake of 93 kJ kg−0.82 day−1. The requirements and retention efficiency of protein and energy in Argyrosomus regius tend to be within the range other fish species. The maintenance needs are in agreement with species with low voluntary activity and growth requirements in agreement with fast-growth species.
Analysis of MC1R, MITF, TYR, TYRP1, and MLPH Genes Polymorphism in Four Rabbit Breeds with Different Coat Colors
Authors: Jia Xianbo , Ding Peng , Chen Shiyi , Zhao Shaokang , Wang Jie , Lai Songjia
Published: January 2021

Pigmentation genes such as MC1R, MITF, TYR, TYRP1, and MLPH play a major role in rabbit coat color. To understand the genotypic profile underlying coat color in indigenous Chinese rabbit breeds, portions of the above-mentioned genes were amplified and variations in them were analyzed by DNA sequencing. Based on the analysis of 24 Tianfu black rabbits, 24 Sichuan white rabbits, 24 Sichuan gray rabbits, and 24 Fujian yellow rabbits, two indels in MC1R, three SNPs in MITF, five SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) in TYR, one SNP in TYRP1, and three SNPs in MLPH were discovered. These variations have low-to-moderate polymorphism, and there are significant differences in their distribution among the different breeds (p < 0.05). These results provide more information regarding the genetic background of these native rabbit breeds and reveal their high-quality genetic resources.
Endometrial Status in Queens Evaluated by Histopathology Findings and Two Cytological Techniques: Low-Volume Uterine Lavage and Uterine Swabbing
Authors: Martí Alba , Serrano Anna , Pastor Josep , Rigau Teresa , Petkevičiuté Ugné , Calvo Maria Àngels , Arosemena Esteban Leonardo , Yuste Aida , Prandi David , Aguilar Adrià , Rivera del Alamo Maria Montserrat
Published: January 2021

Endometritis is associated with fertility problems in many species, with endometrial biopsy being the main diagnostic tool. In feline queens, the reduced size of the uterus may make it difficult to obtain representative diagnostic samples. Endometrial cytology may represent a valuable diagnostic tool for evaluating the health status of the endometrium in queens. Fifty domestic shorthair queens were included and divided into two cytological diagnostic technique groups, the uterine lavage (UL; n = 28) and uterine swabbing (US; n = 22) groups. Cytological results were compared with histopathological and bacteriological information. Changes in the histopathological patterns were also evaluated and compared with progesterone levels to confirm previous published data. Furthermore, the results from both cytological sampling methods were compared to evaluate the utility of each method. Endometritis was ruled out in all queens by means of histology and microbiology. Leukocyte counts and red blood cell/endometrial cell ratios were significantly higher in US than UL samples. Additionally, UL sampling is less affected by blood contamination and cells are better preserved. The combination of endometrial cytology and uterine culture might be useful for evaluating the endometrial characteristics in queens. The UL evaluation method is more representative of the actual endometrial status than the US technique.
Rhosin Suppressed Tumor Cell Metastasis through Inhibition of Rho/YAP Pathway and Expression of RHAMM and CXCR4 in Melanoma and Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Tsubaki Masanobu , Genno Shuuji , Takeda Tomoya , Matsuda Takuya , Kimura Naoto , Yamashita Yuuma , Morii Yuusuke , Shimomura Kazunori , Nishida Shozo
Published: January 2021

The high mortality rate of cancer is strongly correlated with the development of distant metastases at secondary sites. Although Rho GTPases, such as RhoA, RhoB, RhoC, and RhoE, promote tumor metastasis, the main roles of Rho GTPases remain unidentified. It is also unclear whether rhosin, a Rho inhibitor, acts by suppressing metastasis by a downstream inhibition of Rho. In this study, we investigated this mechanism of metastasis in highly metastatic melanoma and breast cancer cells, and the mechanism of inhibition of metastasis by rhosin. We found that rhosin suppressed the RhoA and RhoC activation, the nuclear localization of YAP, but did not affect ERK1/2, Akt, or NF-κB activation in the highly metastatic cell lines B16BL6 and 4T1. High expression of YAP was associated with poor overall and recurrence-free survival in patients with breast cancer or melanoma. Treatment with rhosin inhibited lung metastasis in vivo. Moreover, rhosin inhibited tumor cell adhesion to the extracellular matrix via suppression of RHAMM expression, and inhibited SDF-1-induced cell migration and invasion by decreasing CXCR4 expression in B16BL6 and 4T1 cells. These results suggest that the inhibition of RhoA/C-YAP pathway by rhosin could be an extremely useful therapeutic approach in patients with melanoma and breast cancer.
Reduced Visual Magnocellular Event-Related Potentials in Developmental Dyslexia
Authors: Stein John
Published: January 2021

(1) Background—the magnocellular hypothesis proposes that impaired development of the visual timing systems in the brain that are mediated by magnocellular (M-) neurons is a major cause of dyslexia. Their function can now be assessed quite easily by analysing averaged visually evoked event-related potentials (VERPs) in the electroencephalogram (EEG). Such analysis might provide a useful, objective biomarker for diagnosing developmental dyslexia. (2) Methods—in adult dyslexics and normally reading controls, we recorded steady state VERPs, and their frequency content was computed using the fast Fourier transform. The visual stimulus was a black and white checker board whose checks reversed contrast every 100 ms. M- cells respond to this stimulus mainly at 10 Hz, whereas parvocells (P-) do so at 5 Hz. Left and right visual hemifields were stimulated separately in some subjects to see if there were latency differences between the M- inputs to the right vs. left hemispheres, and these were compared with the subjects’ handedness. (3) Results—Controls demonstrated a larger 10 Hz than 5 Hz fundamental peak in the spectra, whereas the dyslexics showed the reverse pattern. The ratio of subjects’ 10/5 Hz amplitudes predicted their reading ability. The latency of the 10 Hz peak was shorter during left than during right hemifield stimulation, and shorter in controls than in dyslexics. The latter correlated weakly with their handedness. (4) Conclusion—Steady state visual ERPs may conveniently be used to identify developmental dyslexia. However, due to the limited numbers of subjects in each sub-study, these results need confirmation.
RNA-Based Assay for Next-Generation Sequencing of Clinically Relevant Gene Fusions in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: De Luca Caterina , Pepe Francesco , Iaccarino Antonino , Pisapia Pasquale , Righi Luisella , Listì Angela , Greco Lorenza , Gragnano Gianluca , Campione Severo , De Dominicis Gianfranco , Pagni Fabio , Sgariglia Roberta , Nacchio Mariantonia , Tufano Rossella , Conticelli Floriana , Vigliar Elena , Bellevicine Claudio , Cortinovis Diego Luigi , Novello Silvia , Molina-Vila Miguel Angel , Rosell Rafael , Troncone Giancarlo , Malapelle Umberto
Published: January 2021

Gene fusions represent novel predictive biomarkers for advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In this study, we validated a narrow NGS gene panel able to cover therapeutically-relevant gene fusions and splicing events in advanced-stage NSCLC patients. To this aim, we first assessed minimal complementary DNA (cDNA) input and the limit of detection (LoD) in different cell lines. Then, to evaluate the feasibility of applying our panel to routine clinical samples, we retrospectively selected archived lung adenocarcinoma histological and cytological (cell blocks) samples. Overall, our SiRe RNA fusion panel was able to detect all fusions and a splicing event harbored in a RNA pool diluted up to 2 ng/µL. It also successfully analyzed 46 (95.8%) out of 48 samples. Among these, 43 (93.5%) out of 46 samples reproduced the same results as those obtained with conventional techniques. Intriguingly, the three discordant results were confirmed by a CE-IVD automated real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis (Easy PGX platform, Diatech Pharmacogenetics, Jesi, Italy). Based on these findings, we conclude that our new SiRe RNA fusion panel is a valid and robust tool for the detection of clinically relevant gene fusions and splicing events in advanced NSCLC.
Use of Palliative Chemotherapy and ICU Admissions in Gastric and Esophageal Cancer Patients in the Last Phase of Life: A Nationwide Observational Study
Authors: Besseling Joost , Reitsma Jan , Van Erkelens Judith A. , Schepens Maike H. J. , Siroen Michiel P. C. , Ziedses des Plantes Cathelijne M. P. , van Berge Henegouwen Mark I. , Beerepoot Laurens V. , Van Voorthuizen Theo , Van Zuylen Lia , Verhoeven Rob H. A. , van Laarhoven Hanneke
Published: January 2021

Since intensive care unit (ICU) admission and chemotherapy use near death impair the quality of life, we studied the prevalence of both and their correlation with hospital volume in incurable gastroesophageal cancer patients as both impair the quality of life. We analyzed all Dutch patients with incurable gastroesophageal cancer who died in 2017–2018. National insurance claims data were used to determine the prevalence of ICU admission and chemotherapy use (stratified on previous chemotherapy treatment) at three and one month(s) before death. We calculated correlations between hospital volume (i.e., the number of included patients per hospital) and both outcomes. We included 3748 patients (mean age: 71.4 years; 71.4% male). The prevalence of ICU admission and chemotherapy use were, respectively, 5.6% and 21.2% at three months and 4.2% and 8.0% at one month before death. Chemotherapy use at three and one months before death was, respectively, 4.3 times (48.0% vs. 11.2%) and 3.7 times higher (15.7% vs. 4.3%), comparing patients with previous chemotherapy treatment to those without. Hospital volume was negatively correlated with chemotherapy use in the final month (rweighted = −0.23, p = 0.04). ICU admission and chemotherapy use were relatively infrequent. Oncologists in high-volume hospitals may be better equipped in selecting patients most likely to benefit from chemotherapy.
Human Plasma Metabolomics for Biomarker Discovery: Targeting the Molecular Subtypes in Breast Cancer
Authors: Díaz-Beltrán Leticia , González-Olmedo Carmen , Luque-Caro Natalia , Díaz Caridad , Martín-Blázquez Ariadna , Fernández-Navarro Mónica , Ortega-Granados Ana Laura , Gálvez-Montosa Fernando , Vicente Francisca , Pérez del Palacio José , Sánchez-Rovira Pedro
Published: January 2021

Purpose: The aim of this study is to identify differential metabolomic signatures in plasma samples of distinct subtypes of breast cancer patients that could be used in clinical practice as diagnostic biomarkers for these molecular phenotypes and to provide a more individualized and accurate therapeutic procedure. Methods: Untargeted LC-HRMS metabolomics approach in positive and negative electrospray ionization mode was used to analyze plasma samples from LA, LB, HER2+ and TN breast cancer patients and healthy controls in order to determine specific metabolomic profiles through univariate and multivariate statistical data analysis. Results: We tentatively identified altered metabolites displaying concentration variations among the four breast cancer molecular subtypes. We found a biomarker panel of 5 candidates in LA, 7 in LB, 5 in HER2 and 3 in TN that were able to discriminate each breast cancer subtype with a false discovery range corrected p-value < 0.05 and a fold-change cutoff value > 1.3. The model clinical value was evaluated with the AUROC, providing diagnostic capacities above 0.85. Conclusion: Our study identifies metabolic profiling differences in molecular phenotypes of breast cancer. This may represent a key step towards therapy improvement in personalized medicine and prioritization of tailored therapeutic intervention strategies.
The Emerging Role of Nerves and Glia in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Schonkeren Simone L. , Thijssen Meike S. , Vaes Nathalie , Boesmans Werend , Melotte Veerle
Published: January 2021

The role of the nervous system as a contributor in the tumor microenvironment has been recognized in different cancer types, including colorectal cancer (CRC). The gastrointestinal tract is a highly innervated organ system, which is not only innervated by the autonomic nervous system, but also contains an extensive nervous system of its own; the enteric nervous system (ENS). The ENS is important for gut function and homeostasis by regulating processes such as fluid absorption, blood flow, and gut motility. Dysfunction of the ENS has been linked with multiple gastrointestinal diseases, such as Hirschsprung disease and inflammatory bowel disease, and even with neurodegenerative disorders. How the extrinsic and intrinsic innervation of the gut contributes to CRC is not fully understood, although a mutual relationship between cancer cells and nerves has been described. Nerves enhance cancer progression through the secretion of neurotransmitters and neuropeptides, and cancer cells are capable of stimulating nerve growth. This review summarizes and discusses the nervous system innervation of the gastrointestinal tract and how it can influence carcinogenesis, and vice versa. Lastly, the therapeutic potential of these novel insights is discussed.
New Insights into Plant Extracellular DNA. A Study in Soybean Root Extracellular Trap
Authors: Chambard Marie , Plasson Carole , Derambure Céline , Coutant Sophie , Tournier Isabelle , Lefranc Benjamin , Leprince Jérôme , Kiefer-Meyer Marie-Christine , Driouich Azeddine , Follet-Gueye Marie-Laure , Boulogne Isabelle
Published: January 2021

exDNA is found in various organisms, including plants. However, plant exDNA has thus far received little attention related to its origin and role in the RET (root extracellular trap). In this study, we performed the first high-throughput genomic sequencing of plant exDNA from a Fabaceae with worldwide interest: soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.). The origin of this exDNA was first investigated in control condition, and the results show high-coverage on organelles (mitochondria/plastid) DNA relative to nuclear DNA, as well as a mix of coding and non-coding sequences. In the second part of this study, we investigated if exDNA release was modified during an elicitation with PEP-13 (a peptide elicitor from oomycete genus Phytophthora). Our results show that treatment of roots with PEP-13 does not affect the composition of exDNA.
Intravital Assessment of Cells Responses to Conducting Polymer-Coated Carbon Microfibres for Bridging Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: El Waly Bilal , Escarrat Vincent , Perez-Sanchez Jimena , Kaur Jaspreet , Pelletier Florence , Collazos-Castro Jorge Eduardo , Debarbieux Franck
Published: January 2021

The extension of the lesion following spinal cord injury (SCI) poses a major challenge for regenerating axons, which must grow across several centimetres of damaged tissue in the absence of ordered guidance cues. Biofunctionalized electroconducting microfibres (MFs) that provide biochemical signals, as well as electrical and mechanical cues, offer a promising therapeutic approach to help axons overcome this blind journey. We used poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-coated carbon MFs functionalized with cell adhesion molecules and growth factors to bridge the spinal cord after a partial unilateral dorsal quadrant lesion (PUDQL) in mice and followed cellular responses by intravital two-photon (2P) imaging through a spinal glass window. Thy1-CFP//LysM-EGFP//CD11c-EYFP triple transgenic reporter animals allowed real time simultaneous monitoring of axons, myeloid cells and microglial cells in the vicinity of the implanted MFs. MF biocompatibility was confirmed by the absence of inflammatory storm after implantation. We found that the sprouting of sensory axons was significantly accelerated by the implantation of functionalized MFs after PUDQL. Their implantation produced better axon alignment compared to random and misrouted axon regeneration that occurred in the absence of MF, with a most striking effect occurring two months after injury. Importantly, we observed differences in the intensity and composition of the innate immune response in comparison to PUDQL-only animals. A significant decrease of immune cell density was found in MF-implanted mice one month after lesion along with a higher ratio of monocyte-derived dendritic cells whose differentiation was accelerated. Therefore, functionalized carbon MFs promote the beneficial immune responses required for neural tissue repair, providing an encouraging strategy for SCI management.
The G Protein-Coupled Receptor Kinases (GRKs) in Chemokine Receptor-Mediated Immune Cell Migration: From Molecular Cues to Physiopathology
Authors: Laganà Marta , Schlecht-Louf Géraldine , Bachelerie Françoise
Published: January 2021

Although G protein-coupled receptor kinases (GRKs) have long been known to regulate G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) desensitization, their more recently characterized functions as scaffolds and signalling adapters underscore that this small family of proteins governs a larger array of physiological functions than originally suspected. This review explores how GRKs contribute to the complex signalling networks involved in the migration of immune cells along chemokine gradients sensed by cell surface GPCRs. We outline emerging evidence indicating that the coordinated docking of several GRKs on an active chemokine receptor determines a specific receptor phosphorylation barcode that will translate into distinct signalling and migration outcomes. The guidance cues for neutrophil migration are emphasized based on several alterations affecting GRKs or GPCRs reported to be involved in pathological conditions.
Application of Polyaniline for Flexible Semiconductors
Authors: Mocioiu Ana-Maria , Tudor Ioan Albert , Mocioiu Oana Cătălina
Published: January 2021

“In situ” polymerization method was used to develop PANI-PSSA /textile. Polyaniline doped with polystyrene sulfonic acid (PANI-PSSA) used as coatings for textiles were obtained by aqueous and emulsion route. The emulsion route uses chloroform as solvent. Polymerization has been achieved in one step on the wool or polyamide textiles. For coated and uncoated textiles, dried at room temperature, were characterized structurally by Infrared Spectroscopy with Attenuated Total Reflectance (ATR), morphologically by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and by Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and electrically. The synthesis methods lead to differences in structure, morphology and properties of the coated polyamide and wool textiles.
Inkjet Printing of Highly Sensitive, Transparent, Flexible Linear Piezoresistive Strain Sensors
Authors: Kang Ting-Kuo
Published: January 2021

Flexible strain sensors are fabricated by using a simple and low-cost inkjet printing technology of graphene-PEDOT:PSS (poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate)) conductive ink. The inkjet-printed thin-film resistors on a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrate exhibit an excellent optical transmittance of about 90% over a visible wavelength range from 400 to 800 nm. While an external mechanical strain is applied to thin-film resistors as strain sensors, a gauge factor (GF) of the piezoresistive (PR) strain sensors can be evaluated. To improve the GF value of the PR strain sensors, a high resistive (HR) path caused by the phase segregation of the PEDOT:PSS polymer material is, for the first time, proposed to be perpendicular to the PR strain sensing direction. The increase in the GF with the increase in the HR number of the PR strain sensors without a marked hysteresis is found. The result can be explained by the tunneling effect with varied initial tunneling distances and tunneling barriers due to the increase in the number of HR. Finally, a high GF value of approximately 165 of three HR paths is obtained with a linear output signal at the strain range from 0% to 0.33%, further achieving for the inkjet printing of highly sensitive, transparent, and flexible linear PR strain sensors.
The Use of National Strategic Reference Framework Data in Knowledge Graphs and Data Mining to Identify Red Flags
Authors: Bratsas Charalampos , Chondrokostas Evangelos , Koupidis Kleanthis , Antoniou Ioannis
Published: January 2021

Red Flags in fiscal projects are warning signs that may indicate underlying problems with their implementation. In this paper, we present how National Strategic Reference Framework Open Data can be used to take full advantage of semantic web technologies and data mining techniques to build a knowledge-based system that identifies Red Flags. We collected the data from the Open Data API provided by the Greek Ministry of Economy and Finance. Data modeling consist of two ontologies; the Vocabulary of Fiscal Projects, describing the fiscal projects and the National Strategic Reference Framework Greece Vocabulary, illustrating the Greek National Strategic Reference Framework data. We transformed the data into RDF triples and uploaded them onto an OpenLink Virtuoso Server, so that we could retrieve them via SPARQL queries. Performance indicators were defined to assess the state of the project and Density-Based Spatial Clustering of Applications with Noise, (DBSCAN) was used to identify Red Flags. User’s demands is that rejected projects should raise Red Flags, to avoid project failure and assist the auditor to organize the monitoring process efficiently, by avoiding to examine most of the non-problematic projects. We performed a use case scenario in which an auditor has to examine NSRF projects, approximately 12 months before the end of the programming period. The system retrieved the fiscal information, calculated the performance indicators and identified the Red Flags. The last update of the projects status after the end of the programming period was retrieved and extracted the number of rejected projects, to test whether the user requirements are satisfied. Rejected projects consist of 3.8% of the total projects. The results of the use case scenario show that RedFlags platform is more likely to identify project failures and not raise Red Flags on not rejected projects. Therefore, the RedFlags platform using open data, assists the auditor to organize the monitoring process better.
Impact of Economic Freedom on Corruption Revisited in ASEAN Countries: A Bayesian Hierarchical Mixed-Effects Analysis
Authors: Thach Nguyen Ngoc , Ngoc Bui Hoang
Published: January 2021

Conceptual and applied studies assessing the linkage between economic freedom and corruption expect that economic freedom boosts economic growth, improves income, and reduces levels of corruption. However, most of them have concentrated on developed and developing groups, while the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries have drawn much less attention. Empirical findings are most often conflicting. Moreover, previous studies performed rather simple frequentist techniques regressing one or some freedom indices on corruption that do not allow for grasping all the aspects of economic freedom as well as capturing variations across countries. The study aims to investigate the effects of ten components of economic freedom index on the level of corruption in ten ASEAN countries from 1999 to 2018. By applying a Bayesian hierarchical mixed-effects regression via a Monte Carlo technique combined with the Gibbs sampler, the obtained results suggest several findings as follows: (i) In view of probability, the predictors property rights, government integrity, tax burden, business freedom, labor freedom, and investment freedom have a strongly positive impact on the response perceived corruption index; (ii) Government spending, trade freedom, and financial freedom exert a strongly negative effect, while the influence of monetary freedom is ambiguous; and (iii) There is an existence of not only random intercepts but also random coefficients at the country level impacting the model outcome. The empirical outcome could be of major importance for more efficient corruption controlling in emerging countries, including ASEAN nations.
Recent Advancements in Biological Conversion of Industrial Hemp for Biofuel and Value-Added Products
Authors: Ji Anqi , Jia Linjing , Kumar Deepak , Yoo Chang Geun
Published: January 2021

Sustainable, economically feasible, and green resources for energy and chemical products have people’s attention due to global energy demand and environmental issues. Last several decades, diverse lignocellulosic biomass has been studied for the production of biofuels and biochemicals. Industrial hemp has great market potential with its versatile applications. With the increase of the hemp-related markets with hemp seed, hemp oil, and fiber, the importance of hemp biomass utilization has also been emphasized in recent studies. Biological conversions of industrial hemp into bioethanol and other biochemicals have been introduced to address the aforementioned energy and environmental challenges. Its high cellulose content and the increased production because of the demand for cannabidiol oil and hempseed products make it a promising future bioenergy and biochemical source. Effective valorization of the underutilized hemp biomass can also improve the cost-competitiveness of hemp products. This manuscript reviews recent biological conversion strategies for industrial hemp and its characteristics. Current understanding of the industrial hemp properties and applied conversion technologies are briefly summarized. In addition, challenges and future perspectives of the biological conversion with industrial hemp are discussed.
Investigation of Aerogel Production Processes: Solvent Exchange under High Pressure Combined with Supercritical Drying in One Apparatus
Authors: Lebedev Artem , Suslova Ekaterina , Troyankin Aleksander , Lovskaya Daria
Published: January 2021

This work aims to contribute to the theoretical and experimental research of supercritical processes for intensification and combination in one apparatus. Investigation is carried out to improve production technology of organic alginate aerogels. It is proposed within the investigation to carry out the solvent exchange stage, an important stage of organic aerogels production, under pressure in a carbon dioxide medium in the same apparatus used for supercritical drying. The phase behavior in the system “carbon dioxide–water–2-propanol”, which arises during such a solvent exchange stage, is studied theoretically. An experimental study of the process of step-by-step solvent exchange under pressure was carried out through multiphase and homogeneous regions of the phase diagram of such a system. As a result, new highly efficient technology for the production of organic aerogels was proposed, which can be implemented by combining the two main stages of the process.
Calculating Energy and Its Spatial Distribution for a Subsurface Urban Heat Island Using a GIS-Approach
Authors: Schweighofer Julian A. V. , Wehrl Michael , Baumgärtel Sebastian , Rohn Joachim
Published: January 2021

In urban areas, the human influence on the city-ecosystem often results in a Subsurface Urban Heat Island (SUHI), which can be used geothermally. Unfortunately, a model of a SUHI does not consider the geology and hydrogeology of the subsoil. These can vary significantly over short distances, and are of considerable importance for the energy balance. In this work, we calculated the energy and its density stored in the subsoil via a SUHI. For this so-called energy-SUHI (e-SUHI), we evaluated the geology and its physical parameters for the first 20 m below ground level in the German city of Nuremberg and linked them to measured underground temperatures in a GIS application. This approach revealed stored energy of 1.634 × 1010 MJ within the soil and water for the study area with an area of 163 km2 and a volume of 3.26 × 109 m3. It corresponds to an average energy density of 5.0 MJ/m3. The highest energy density of 16.5 MJ/m3 was found in the city center area and correlated well to increases in subsurface temperature. As expected, our model reacts sensitively to thickness changes in the geological layers and the unsaturated zone.
Antifungal Resistance among Less Prevalent Candida Non-albicans and Other Yeasts versus Established and under Development Agents: A Literature Review
Authors: Espinel-Ingroff Ana , Cantón Emilia , Pemán Javier
Published: January 2021

Fungal diseases and antifungal resistance continue to increase, including those caused by rare or emerging species. However, the majority of the published in vitro susceptibility data are for the most common fungal species. We reviewed the literature in order to pool reference minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) data (Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute—CLSI and European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility—EUCAST) for rare/non-prevalent Candida and other yeast species. MIC results were compared with those for Candida albicans, C. glabrata, and C. krusei. Data were listed for twenty rare and emerging Candida spp., including C. auris, as well as two Cryptococcus spp., two Trichosporon spp., Saccharomyces cerevisiae and five Malassezia spp. The best detectors of antimicrobial resistance are the breakpoints, which are not available for the less common Candida species. However, epidemiological cutoff values (ECVs/ECOFFs) have been calculated using merely in vitro data for both reference methods for various non-prevalent yeasts and recently the CLSI has established ECVs for other Candida species. The ECV could identify the non-wild type (NWT or mutants) isolates with known resistance mechanisms. Utilizing these ECVs, we were able to report additional percentages of NWT, especially for non-prevalent species, by analyzing the MIC distributions in the literature. In addition, since several antifungal drugs are under development, we are listing MIC data for some of these agents.
Earthworm Diversity, Forest Conversion and Agroforestry in Quang Nam Province, Vietnam
Authors: Mulia Rachmat , Hoang Sam Van , Dinh Van Mai , Duong Ngoc Bich Thi , Nguyen Anh Duc , Lam Dang Hai , Thi Hoang Duyen Thu , van Noordwijk Meine
Published: January 2021

The conversion of natural forests to different land uses still occurs in various parts of Southeast Asia with poor records of impact on ecosystem services and biodiversity. We quantified such impacts on earthworm diversity in two communes of Quang Nam province, Vietnam. Both communes are situated within buffer zones of a nature reserve where remaining natural forests are under threat of continued conversion. We identified 25 different earthworm species, out of which 21 were found in natural forests, 15 in agroforestry, 14 in planted forests, and seven each in annual croplands and home gardens. Out of the six species that were omnipresent inhabitants of all observed habitats, Pontoscolex corethrurus largely dominated habitats with intensive anthropogenic activities but was rare in natural forests. Natural and regenerated forests had a much denser earthworm population in the top 10 cm of soil rather than in deeper soil layers. We conclude that the conversion of natural forests into different land uses has reduced earthworm diversity which can substantially affect soil health and ecosystem functions in the two communes. Protection of the remaining natural forests is urgent, while the promotion of a tree-based farming system such as agroforestry can reconcile earthworm conservation and local livelihoods.
Intelligent Agents in Co-Evolving Knowledge Networks
Authors: Ioannidis Evangelos , Varsakelis Nikos , Antoniou Ioannis
Published: January 2021

We extend the agent-based models for knowledge diffusion in networks, restricted to random mindless interactions and to “frozen” (static) networks, in order to take into account intelligent agents and network co-evolution. Intelligent agents make decisions under bounded rationality. This is the key distinction of intelligent interacting agents compared to mindless colliding molecules, involved in the usual diffusion mechanism resulting from accidental collisions. The co-evolution of link weights and knowledge levels is modeled at the local microscopic level of “agent-to-agent” interaction. Our network co-evolution model is actually a “learning mechanism”, where weight updates depend on the previous values of both weights and knowledge levels. The goal of our work is to explore the impact of (a) the intelligence of the agents, modeled by the selection-decision rule for knowledge acquisition, (b) the innovation rate of the agents, (c) the number of “top innovators” and (d) the network size. We find that rational intelligent agents transform the network into a “centralized world”, reducing the entropy of their selections-decisions for knowledge acquisition. In addition, we find that the average knowledge, as well as the “knowledge inequality”, grow exponentially.
Influence of Piezoelectric Properties on the Ultrasonic Dispersion of TiO2 Nanoparticles in Aqueous Suspension
Authors: Hwangbo Seon Ae , Choi Young Min , Lee Tae Geol
Published: January 2021

In this study, the soft-type and hard-type lead zirconate titanate (PZT) ceramics were compared in order to create an optimal system for ultrasonic dispersion of nanoparticles, and sound pressure energy for each PZT ceramic was analyzed and closely examined with ultrasonic energy. TiO2 was water-dispersed using the soft-type and hard-type PZT transducer, possessing different characteristics, and its suspension particle size and distribution, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, and dispersion were evaluated for 180 days. Furthermore, it was confirmed that the particles dispersed using the hard-type PZT transducer were smaller than the particles dispersed using the soft-type PZT by 15 nm or more. Because the hard-type PZT transducer had a lower PDI, uniform particle size distribution was also confirmed. In addition, by measuring the zeta potential over time, it was found that the hard-type PZT transducer has higher dispersion safety. In addition, it was confirmed that the ultrasonically dispersed TiO2 suspension using a hard-type PZT transducer maintained constant particle size distribution for 180 days, whereas the suspension from the soft-type PZT aggregated 30 days later. Therefore, the hard-type PZT is more suitable for ultrasonic dispersion of nanoparticles.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection Up-Regulates Sialyl Lewis X Expression in the Lung Epithelium
Authors: Matos Rita , Fonseca Kaori L. , Mereiter Stefan , Maceiras Ana Raquel , Gomes Joana , Vilaplana Cristina , Gartner Fátima , Rodrigues Pedro N. S. , Reis Celso A. , Saraiva Margarida , Magalhães Ana
Published: January 2021

Glycans display increasingly recognized roles in pathological contexts, however, their impact in the host-pathogen interplay in many infectious diseases remains largely unknown. This is the case for tuberculosis (TB), one of the ten most fatal diseases worldwide, caused by infection of the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis. We have recently reported that perturbing the core-2 O-glycans biosynthetic pathway increases the host susceptibility to M. tuberculosis infection, by disrupting the neutrophil homeostasis and enhancing lung pathology. In the present study, we show an increased expression of the sialylated glycan structure Sialyl-Lewis X (SLeX) in the lung epithelium upon M. tuberculosis infection. This increase in SLeX glycan epitope is accompanied by an altered lung tissue transcriptomic signature, with up-regulation of genes codifying enzymes that are involved in the SLeX core-2 O-glycans biosynthetic pathway. This study provides novel insights into previously unappreciated molecular mechanisms involving glycosylation, which modulate the host response to M. tuberculosis infection, possibly contributing to shape TB disease outcome.
Bacterial Diversity Analysis and Evaluation Proteins Hydrolysis during the Acid Whey and Fish Waste Fermentation
Authors: Mayta-Apaza Alba C. , García-Cano Israel , Dabrowski Konrad , Jiménez-Flores Rafael
Published: January 2021

The disposal of acid whey (Aw), a by-product from fermented products, is a problem for the dairy industry. The fishery industry faces a similar dilemma, disposing of nearly 50% of fish processed for human consumption. Economically feasible and science-based alternatives are needed to overcome this problem. One possible solution is to add value to the remaining nutrients from these by-products. This study focuses on the breakdown of nutrients in controlled fermentations of Aw, fish waste (F), molasses (M), and a lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strain (Lr). The aim was to assess the dynamic variations in microbial diversity and the biochemical changes that occur during fermentation. Four treatments were compared (AwF, AwFM, AwFLr, and AwFMLr), and the fermentation lasted 14 days at 22.5 °C. Samples were taken every other day. Colorimetric tests for peptide concentrations, pH, and microbial ecology by 16S-v4 rRNA amplicon using Illumina MiSeq were conducted. The results of the microbial ecology showed elevated levels of alpha and beta diversity in the samples at day zero. By day 2 of fermentation, pH dropped, and the availability of a different set of nutrients was reflected in the microbial diversity. The fermentation started to stabilize and was driven by the Firmicutes phylum, which dominated the microbial community by day 14. Moreover, there was a significant increase (3.6 times) in peptides when comparing day 0 with day 14, making this treatment practical and feasible for protein hydrolysis. This study valorizes two nutrient-dense by-products and provides an alternative to the current handling of these materials.
Aerosolized Niosome Formulation Containing Gemcitabine and Cisplatin for Lung Cancer Treatment: Optimization, Characterization and In Vitro Evaluation
Authors: Mohamad Saimi Norfatin Izzatie , Salim Norazlinaliza , Ahmad Noraini , Abdulmalek Emilia , Abdul Rahman Mohd Basyaruddin
Published: January 2021

Gemcitabine (Gem) and cisplatin (Cis) are currently being used for lung cancer treatment, but they are highly toxic in high dosages. This research aimed to develop a niosome formulation containing a low-dosage Gem and Cis (NGC), as an alternative formulation for lung cancer treatment. NGC was prepared using a very simple heating method and was further optimized by D-optimal mixture design. The optimum NGC formulation with particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), and zeta potential of 166.45 nm, 0.16, and −15.28 mV, respectively, was obtained and remained stable at 27 °C with no phase separation for up to 90 days. The aerosol output was 96.22%, which indicates its suitability as aerosolized formulation. An in vitro drug release study using the dialysis bag diffusion technique showed controlled release for both drugs up to 24 h penetration. A cytotoxicity study against normal lung (MRC5) and lung cancer (A549) cell lines was investigated. The results showed that the optimized NGC had reduced cytotoxicity effects against both MRC5 and A549 when compared with the control (Gem + Cis alone) from very toxic (IC50 < 1.56 µg/mL) to weakly toxic (IC50 280.00 µg/mL) and moderately toxic (IC50 = 46.00 µg/mL), respectively, after 72 h of treatment. These findings revealed that the optimized NGC has excellent potential and is a promising prospect in aerosolized delivery systems to treat lung cancer that warrants further investigation.
Formulation and Characterization of Alginate-Based Membranes for the Potential Transdermal Delivery of Methotrexate
Authors: Bajas Dorothea , Vlase Gabriela , Mateescu Mădălina , Grad Oana Alexandra , Bunoiu Mădălin , Vlase Titus , Avram Claudiu
Published: January 2021

The aim of this study is to obtain and characterize of alginate-based membranes, as well as to choose the most suitable membrane type for the transdermal release of methotrexate. The paper presents the synthesis of four types of membranes based on alginate to which are added other copolymers (Carbopol, Tween, and Polyvinylpyrrolidone) as well as other components with different roles. Membranes and binary mixtures made between the components used in membrane synthesis and methotrexate are analyzed by thermogravimetric techniques, FTIR and UV spectroscopic techniques as well as SEM. The analyses aim to establish the type of membrane most indicated in the use of the controlled release of methotrexate, namely those membranes in which there are no interactions that could inactivate the active substance. Following these studies, it was concluded that membranes obtained from alginate/alginate and Tw can be used for methotrexate release. The membrane obtained from alginate and carbopol was excluded from the beginning because it is not homogeneous. Regarding the AGP-MTX membrane, it presents interactions with the active substance, carboxylate group interactions argued by TGA and FTIR studies, and interactions that occur in aqueous medium.
Advances in Wood Composites III
Authors: Papadopoulos Antonios N.
Published: January 2021

Wood composites are man-made materials that can be easily manufactured from a variety of raw lignocellulosic materials and the appropriate binder [...]
Centrifugal Microfluidic Integration of 4-Plex ddPCR Demonstrated by the Quantification of Cancer-Associated Point Mutations
Authors: Schlenker Franziska , Kipf Elena , Borst Nadine , Paust Nils , Zengerle Roland , von Stetten Felix , Juelg Peter , Hutzenlaub Tobias
Published: January 2021

We present the centrifugal microfluidic implementation of a four-plex digital droplet polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR). The platform features 12 identical ddPCR units on a LabDisk cartridge, each capable of generating droplets with a diameter of 82.7 ± 9 µm. By investigating different oil–surfactant concentrations, we identified a robust process for droplet generation and stabilization. We observed high droplet stability during thermocycling and endpoint fluorescence imaging, as is required for ddPCRs. Furthermore, we introduce an automated process for four-color fluorescence imaging using a commercial cell analysis microscope, including a customized software pipeline for ddPCR image evaluation. The applicability of ddPCRs is demonstrated by the quantification of three cancer-associated KRAS point mutations (G12D, G12V and G12A) in a diagnostically relevant wild type DNA background. The four-plex assay showed high sensitivity (3.5–35 mutant DNA copies in 15,000 wild type DNA copies) and linear performance (R² = 0.99) across all targets in the LabDisk.
Retrospective Reserves and Bonus with Policyholder Behavior
Authors: Falden Debbie Kusch , Nyegaard Anna Kamille
Published: January 2021

Legislation imposes insurance companies to project their assets and liabilities in various financial scenarios. Within the setup of with-profit life insurance, we consider retrospective reserves and bonus, and we study projection of balances with and without policyholder behavior. The projection resides in a system of differential equations of the savings account and the surplus, and the policyholder behavior options surrender and conversion to free-policy are included. The inclusion results in a structure where the system of differential equations of the savings account and the surplus is non-trivial. We consider a case where we are able to find accurate differential equations and suggest an approximation method to project the savings account and the surplus, including policyholder behavior, in general. To highlight the practical applications of the results in this paper, we study a numerical example.