bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PySpark-Based Optimization of Microwave Image Reconstruction Algorithm for Head Imaging Big Data on High-Performance Computing and Google Cloud Platform
Authors: Ullah Rahmat , Arslan Tughrul
Published: May 2020

For processing large-scale medical imaging data, adopting high-performance computing and cloud-based resources are getting attention rapidly. Due to its low–cost and non-invasive nature, microwave technology is being investigated for breast and brain imaging. Microwave imaging via space-time algorithm and its extended versions are commonly used, as it provides high-quality images. However, due to intensive computation and sequential execution, these algorithms are not capable of producing images in an acceptable time. In this paper, a parallel microwave image reconstruction algorithm based on Apache Spark on high-performance computing and Google Cloud Platform is proposed. The input data is first converted to a resilient distributed data set and then distributed to multiple nodes on a cluster. The subset of pixel data is calculated in parallel on these nodes, and the results are retrieved to a master node for image reconstruction. Using Apache Spark, the performance of the parallel microwave image reconstruction algorithm is evaluated on high-performance computing and Google Cloud Platform, which shows an average speed increase of 28.56 times on four homogeneous computing nodes. Experimental results revealed that the proposed parallel microwave image reconstruction algorithm fully inherits the parallelism, resulting in fast reconstruction of images from radio frequency sensor’s data. This paper also illustrates that the proposed algorithm is generalized and can be deployed on any master-slave architecture.
Improving Innovation from Science Using Kernel Tree Methods as a Precursor to Designed Experimentation
Authors: Young Timothy M. , Breyer Robert A. , Liles Terry , Petutschnigg Alexander
Published: May 2020

A key challenge in applied science when planning a designed experiment is to determine the aliasing structure of the interaction effects and selecting the appropriate levels for the factors. In this study, kernel tree methods are used as precursors to identify significant interactions and levels of the factors useful for developing a designed experiment. This approach is aligned with integrating data science with the applied sciences to reduce the time from innovation in research and development to the advancement of new products, a very important consideration in today’s world of rapid advancements in industries such as pharmaceutical, medicine, aerospace, etc. Significant interaction effects for six common independent variables using boosted trees and random forests of k = 1000 and k = 10,000 bootstraps were identified from industrial databases. The four common variables were related to speed, pressing time, pressing temperature, and fiber refining. These common variables maximized tensile strength of medium density fiberboard (MDF) and the ultimate static load of oriented strand board (OSB), both widely-used industrial products. Given the results of the kernel tree methods, four possible designs with interaction effects were developed: full factorial, fractional factorial Resolution IV, Box–Behnken, and Central Composite Designs (CCD).
Effects of Manure Waste Biochars in Mining Soils
Authors: Álvarez María Luisa , Méndez Ana , Paz-Ferreiro Jorge , Gascó Gabriel
Published: May 2020

Land degradation by old mining activities is a concern worldwide. However, many known technologies are expensive and cannot be considered for mining soil restoration. Biochar amendment of mining soils is becoming an interesting alternative to traditional technologies due to an improvement in soil properties and metal mobility reduction. Biochar effects depend on soil and biochar properties, which in turn vary with pyrolysis conversion parameters and the feedstock used. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of four biochars prepared from poultry and rabbit manure at two pyrolysis temperatures (450 and 600 °C) in the trace metal mobility, CO2 emissions, and enzymatic activity of 10 mining soils located in three historical mining areas of Spain (Zarandas-Andalusia, Mijarojos-Cantabria, and Portman-Murcia). For this reason, soils were amended with biochars at a rate of 10% (w/w), and different treatments were incubated for 180 days. For acid soils of the Zarandas-Andalusia area, biochar addition reduced the mobility of Ni, Zn, Cd, Pb, and Cr, respectively, by 91%, 81%, 29%, 67%, and 70%. Nevertheless, biochars did not exhibit the same efficiency in the other two areas where alkaline soils were predominant. CO2 emissions generally increased in the treated soils. The application of biochars produced at 600 °C reduced CO2 emissions, in some cases by more than 28%, being an adequate strategy for C sequestration in soil. The results showed that application of manure biochars can be an effective technique to reduce the mobility of metals in multi-contaminated acid soils, while reducing metal toxicity for soil microorganisms.
Diffuse Optical Tomography Using Bayesian Filtering in the Human Brain
Authors: Hernandez-Martin Estefania , Gonzalez-Mora Jose Luis
Published: May 2020

The present work describes noninvasive diffuse optical tomography (DOT), a technology for measuring hemodynamic changes in the brain. These changes provide relevant information that helps us to understand the basis of neurophysiology in the human brain. Advantages, such as portability, direct measurements of hemoglobin state, temporal resolution, and the lack of need to restrict movements, as is necessary in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) devices, means that DOT technology can be used both in research and clinically. Here, we describe the use of Bayesian methods to filter raw DOT data as an alternative to the linear filters widely used in signal processing. Common problems, such as filter selection or a false interpretation of the results, which is sometimes caused by the interference of background physiological noise with neural activity, can be avoided with this new method.
How Cool Are Allotment Gardens? A Case Study of Nocturnal Air Temperature Differences in Berlin, Germany
Authors: Rost Annemarie Tabea , Liste Victoria , Seidel Corinna , Matscheroth Lea , Otto Marco , Meier Fred , Fenner Daniel
Published: May 2020

Urban green infrastructures have been extensively studied for their ability to mitigate the urban heat island (UHI) effect. However, allotment gardens (AGs)—a prominent type of urban green infrastructure within many European cities—have not yet been comprehensively investigated concerning their microclimates. In this study, nocturnal air temperatures ( T N ) in 13 AG complexes (AGCs) were measured during the summer of 2018 in Berlin, Germany. These were compared to measurements in densely built-up urban areas (URB), two large inner-city parks and rural areas (RUR). On average, the assessed AGCs were 2.7 K cooler at night than URB. Most of the investigated AGCs (11/13) displayed a larger mean T N difference to URB ( Δ T N   A G C   ¯ ) than the examined urban parks. RUR showed the largest differences to URB ( Δ T N   R U R ¯ ), indicating a UHI effect. Furthermore, the influence of land surface characteristics of the AGCs on Δ T N   A G C ¯ was analyzed. Δ T N   A G C ¯ decreased significantly as the floor space index around AGCs increased. The analysis of the shape complexity also produced a significant positive correlation with Δ T N   A G C ¯ . In contrast, size and distance to the city center of an AGC decreased significantly with increasing Δ T N   A G C ¯ . This study provides first insights into the microclimate of AGs and influencing variables concerning T N .
Spironolactone and XPB: An Old Drug with a New Molecular Target
Authors: Gabbard Ryan D. , Hoopes Robert R. , Kemp Michael G.
Published: May 2020

Spironolactone (SP) is commonly used for the treatment of heart failure, hypertension, and complications of cirrhosis by antagonizing the mineralocorticoid receptor. However, SP also antagonizes the androgen receptor, and thus SP has also been shown to be effective in the treatment of acne, hair loss, and hirsutism in women. Interestingly, recent drug repurposing screens have identified new and diverse functions for SP as a simulator of tumor immunosurveillance and as an inhibitor of DNA repair and viral infection. These novel pharmacological effects of SP have all been linked to the ability of SP to induce the rapid proteolytic degradation of the xeroderma pigmentosum group B (XPB) protein. XPB is a critical enzymatic component of the multi-subunit complex known as transcription factor II-H (TFIIH), which plays essential roles in both DNA repair and the initiation of transcription. Given the critical functions for XPB and TFIIH in these processes, the loss of XPB by SP could lead to mutagenesis. However, the ability of SP to promote cancer stem cell death and facilitate immune recognition may counteract the negative consequences of SP to mitigate carcinogenic risk. Thus, SP appears to have new and interesting pharmacological effects that may extend its potential uses.
Cannabis Constituents and Acetylcholinesterase Interaction: Molecular Docking, In Vitro Studies and Association with CNR1 rs806368 and ACHE rs17228602
Authors: Furqan Tiyyaba , Batool Sidra , Habib Rabia , Shah Mamoona , Kalasz Huba , Darvas Ferenc , Kuca Kamil , Nepovimova Eugenie , Batool Sajida , Nurulain Syed M
Published: May 2020

The study documented here was aimed to find the molecular interactions of some of the cannabinoid constituents of cannabis with acetylcholinesterase (AChE). Molecular docking and LogP determination were performed to predict the AChE inhibitory effect and lipophilicity. AChE enzyme activity was measured in the blood of cannabis addicted human subjects. Further, genetic predisposition to cannabis addiction was investigated by association analysis of cannabinoid receptor 1 (CNR1) single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs806368 and ACHE rs17228602 using restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) method. All the understudied cannabis constituents showed promising binding affinities with AChE and are lipophilic in nature. The AChE activity was observed to be indifferent in cannabis addicted and non-addicted healthy controls. There was no significant association with CNR1 SNP rs806368 and ACHE rs17228602. The study concludes that in silico prediction for individual biomolecules of cannabis is different from in vivo physiological action in human subjects when all are present together. However, for a deeper mechanistic insight into these interactions and association, multi-population studies are suggested. Further studies to explore the inhibitory potential of different cannabis constituents for intended AChE inhibitor-based drug are warranted.
An Ice-Binding Protein from an Antarctic Ascomycete Is Fine-Tuned to Bind to Specific Water Molecules Located in the Ice Prism Planes
Authors: Yamauchi Akari , Arai Tatsuya , Kondo Hidemasa , Sasaki Yuji C. , Tsuda Sakae
Published: May 2020

Many microbes that survive in cold environments are known to secrete ice-binding proteins (IBPs). The structure–function relationship of these proteins remains unclear. A microbial IBP denoted AnpIBP was recently isolated from a cold-adapted fungus, Antarctomyces psychrotrophicus. The present study identified an orbital illumination (prism ring) on a globular single ice crystal when soaked in a solution of fluorescent AnpIBP, suggesting that AnpIBP binds to specific water molecules located in the ice prism planes. In order to examine this unique ice-binding mechanism, we carried out X-ray structural analysis and mutational experiments. It appeared that AnpIBP is made of 6-ladder β-helices with a triangular cross section that accompanies an “ice-like” water network on the ice-binding site. The network, however, does not exist in a defective mutant. AnpIBP has a row of four unique hollows on the IBS, where the distance between the hollows (14.7 Å) is complementary to the oxygen atom spacing of the prism ring. These results suggest the structure of AnpIBP is fine-tuned to merge with the ice–water interface of an ice crystal through its polygonal water network and is then bound to a specific set of water molecules constructing the prism ring to effectively halt the growth of ice.
Site-Specific Antibody–Drug Conjugates in Triple Variable Domain Fab Format
Authors: Hwang Dobeen , Rader Christoph
Published: May 2020

The interest in replacing the conventional immunoglobulin G (IgG) format of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) with alternative antibody and antibody-like scaffolds reflects a need to expand their therapeutic utility and potency while retaining their exquisite specificity, affinity, and low intrinsic toxicity. For example, in the therapy of solid malignancies, the limited tumor tissue penetration and distribution of ADCs in IgG format mitigates a uniform distribution of the cytotoxic payload. Here, we report triple variable domain Fab (TVD–Fab) as a new format that affords the site-specific and stable generation of monovalent ADCs without the Fc domain and a drug-to-antibody ratio (DAR) of 2. TVD–Fabs harbor three variable fragment (Fv) domains: one for tumor targeting and two for the fast, efficient, precise, and stable conjugation of two cargos via uniquely reactive lysine residues. The biochemical and in vitro cytotoxicity properties of a HER2-targeting TVD–Fab before and after conjugation to a tubulin inhibitor were validated. In vivo, the TVD–Fab antibody carrier revealed a circulatory half-life of 13.3 ± 2.5 h and deeper tumor tissue distribution compared to our previously reported dual variable domain (DVD)–IgG1 format. Taken together, the TVD–Fab format merits further investigations as an antibody carrier of site-specific ADCs targeting solid malignancies.
Near-Surface Studies of the Changes to the Structure and Mechanical Properties of Human Enamel under the Action of Fluoride Varnish Containing CPP–ACP Compound
Authors: Świetlicka Izabela , Kuc Damian , Świetlicki Michał , Arczewska Marta , Muszyński Siemowit , Tomaszewska Ewa , Prószyński Adam , Gołacki Krzysztof , Błaszczak Jerzy , Cieślak Krystian , Kamiński Daniel , Mielnik-Błaszczak Maria
Published: May 2020

Changes to the features of the enamel surface submitted to induced demineralisation and subsequent remineralisation were studied. The in vitro examination was conducted on polished slices of human molar teeth, divided in four groups: the untreated control (n = 20), challenged by a demineralisation with orthophosphoric acid (H3PO4) (n = 20), and challenged by a demineralisation following remineralisation with fluoride (F) varnish containing casein phosphopeptides (CPP) and amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) compounds (n = 20). The specimens’ enamel surfaces were subjected to analysis of structure, molecular arrangement, mechanical features, chemical composition, and crystalline organization of apatite crystals. Specimens treated with acid showed a significant decrease in crystallinity, calcium, and phosphorus levels as well as mechanical parameters, with an increase in enamel surface roughness and degree of carbonates when compared to the control group. Treatment with fluoride CPP–ACP varnish provided great improvements in enamel arrangement, as the destroyed hydroxyapatite structure was largely rebuilt and the resulting enamel surface was characterised by greater regularity, higher molecular and structural organisation, and a smoother surface compared to the demineralised one. In conclusion, this in vitro study showed that fluoride CPP–ACP varnish, by improving enamel hardness and initiating the deposition of a new crystal layer, can be an effective remineralising agent for the treatment of damaged enamel.
Low-Grade Inflammation Is Not Present in Former Obese Males but Adipose Tissue Macrophage Infiltration Persists
Authors: Ara Ignacio , Auerbach Pernille , Larsen Steen , Mata Esmeralda , Stallknecht Bente , Ploug Thorkil , Prats Clara , Helge Jørn W.
Published: May 2020

Macrophage infiltration in two subcutaneous adipose tissue depots and systemic low-grade inflammation were studied in post-obese (PO), obese (O), and control (C) subjects. Young males were recruited into PO: (n = 10, weight-loss avg. 26%, BMI: 26.6 ± 0.7, mean ±SEM kg/m2), O: (n = 10, BMI: 33.8 ± 1.0kg/m2) and C: (n = 10, BMI: 26.6 ± 0.6 kg/m2). PO and C were matched by BMI. Blood and abdominal and gluteal subcutaneous adipose tissue were obtained in the overnight fasted state. Plasma concentrations of IL-6 and CRP were higher (p < 0.05) in O than in PO and C, TNF-α was higher (p < 0.05) only in O compared to PO and IL-18 was similar between groups. The number of CD68+ macrophages was higher (p < 0.05) in the gluteal than the abdominal depot, and higher (p < 0.05) in O and PO compared to C in both depots. The content of CD163+ macrophages was similar between depots but was higher (p < 0.05) in PO compared to C and O in the gluteal depot. In post obese men with a long-term sustained weight loss, systemic low-grade inflammation was similar to non-obese controls despite a higher subcutaneous adipose tissue CD68+ macrophage content. Interestingly, the anti-inflammatory CD163+ macrophage adipose tissue content was consistently higher in post obese than obese and controls.
Yeast-Based Biosensors: Current Applications and New Developments
Authors: Martin-Yken Helene
Published: May 2020

Biosensors are regarded as a powerful tool to detect and monitor environmental contaminants, toxins, and, more generally, organic or chemical markers of potential threats to human health. They are basically composed of a sensor part made up of either live cells or biological active molecules coupled to a transducer/reporter technological element. Whole-cells biosensors may be based on animal tissues, bacteria, or eukaryotic microorganisms such as yeasts and microalgae. Although very resistant to adverse environmental conditions, yeasts can sense and respond to a wide variety of stimuli. As eukaryotes, they also constitute excellent cellular models to detect chemicals and organic contaminants that are harmful to animals. For these reasons, combined with their ease of culture and genetic modification, yeasts have been commonly used as biological elements of biosensors since the 1970s. This review aims first at giving a survey on the different types of yeast-based biosensors developed for the environmental and medical domains. We then present the technological developments currently undertaken by academic and corporate scientists to further drive yeasts biosensors into a new era where the biological element is optimized in a tailor-made fashion by in silico design and where the output signals can be recorded or followed on a smartphone.
Paper-Based Working Electrodes Coated with Mercury or Bismuth Films for Heavy Metals Determination
Authors: Sánchez-Calvo Alberto , Blanco-López Maria Carmen , Costa-García Agustín
Published: May 2020

Paper-based carbon working electrodes were modified with mercury or bismuth films for the determination of trace metals in aqueous solutions. Both modification procedures were optimized in terms of selectivity and sensitivity for the determination of different heavy metals, aiming their simultaneous determination. Cd (II), Pb (II) and In (III) could be quantified with both films. However, Cu (II) could not be determined with bismuth films. The modification with mercury films led to the most sensitive method, with linear ranges between 0.1 and 10 µg/mL and limits of detection of 0.4, 0.1, 0.04 and 0.2 µg/mL for Cd (II), Pb (II), In (III) and Cu (II), respectively. Nevertheless, the bismuth film was a more sustainable alternative to mercury. Tap-water samples were analyzed for the determination of metals by standard addition methodology with good accuracy, by using a low-cost and easily disposable paper-based electrochemical platform. This system demonstrated its usefulness for monitoring heavy metals in water.
Comparison Analysis between the Medication Efficacy of the Milnacipran and Functional Connectivity of Neural Networks in Fibromyalgia Patients
Authors: Kim Seong-Ho , Lee Min-Woo , Kang Min-Jae , Lee Sung Gun , Lee Jung-Goo , Mun Chi-Woong
Published: May 2020

Milnacipran is a reuptake inhibitor of both serotonin and noradrenaline, used in the treatment of fibromyalgia with severe depression. However, few studies have been conducted on the efficacies of milnacipran drug on the functional connectivity of the neural network. The authors aimed to find the correlation between the drug efficacy and the changes in neural network in fibromyalgia patients. Resting-state-functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) were obtained before and after milnacipran drug administration. Graph theory indexes and small-worldness were calculated using preprocessed blood-oxygen-level-dependent signals from the rs-fMRI scans of 14 brain regions-of-interest. Statistical analyses were conducted to compare the topological network parameters. Significant changes in the neural network indexes appeared in three of the 14 brain regions-of-interest. In the pain network, the average path length on the left side of Brodmann area 32 was shortened. In the default mode network, functional connectivity changes were observed in the left lateral parietal cortex and medial prefrontal cortex. In the left lateral parietal cortex, the degree and betweenness centrality increased, whereas the clustering coefficient decreased. In the medial prefrontal cortex, local efficiency decreased. The small-worldness declined after milnacipran medication. The present results demonstrate that functional connectivity indexes in the brains of female fibromyalgia patients obtained from rs-fMRI data can be used as potential prognosis markers of milnacipran drug treatment.
Different Camptothecin Sensitivities in Subpopulations of Colon Cancer Cells Correlate with Expression of Different Phospho-Isoforms of Topoisomerase I with Different Activities
Authors: Tesauro Cinzia , Keller Josephine Geertsen , Gromova Irina , Gromov Pavel , Frøhlich Rikke , Erlandsen Jens Uldum , Andersen Anni H. , Stougaard Magnus , Knudsen Birgitta R.
Published: May 2020

The heterogeneity of tumor cells and the potential existence of rare cells with reduced chemotherapeutic response is expected to play a pivotal role in the development of drug resistant cancers. Herein, we utilized the colon cancer cell lines, Caco2 and DLD1, to investigate heterogeneity of topoisomerase 1 (TOP1) activity in different cell subpopulations, and the consequences for the chemotherapeutic response towards the TOP1 targeting drug, camptothecin. The cell lines consisted of two subpopulations: one (the stem-cell-like cells) divided asymmetrically, was camptothecin resistant, had a differently phosphorylated TOP1 and a lower Casein Kinase II (CKII) activity than the camptothecin sensitive non-stem-cell-like cells. The tumor suppressor p14ARF had a different effect in the two cell subpopulations. In the stem-cell-like cells, p14ARF suppressed TOP1 activity and downregulation of this factor increased the sensitivity towards camptothecin. It had the opposite effect in non-stem-cell-like cells. Since it is only the stem-cell-like cells that have tumorigenic activity our results point towards new considerations for future cancer therapy. Moreover, the data underscore the importance of considering cell-to-cell variations in the analysis of molecular processes in cell lines.
BRCA Detection Rate in an Italian Cohort of Luminal Early-Onset and Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Patients without Family History: When Biology Overcomes Genealogy
Authors: Toss Angela , Molinaro Eleonora , Venturelli Marta , Domati Federica , Marcheselli Luigi , Piana Simonetta , Barbieri Elena , Grandi Giovanni , Piombino Claudia , Marchi Isabella , Tenedini Elena , Tagliafico Enrico , Tazzioli Giovanni , Cortesi Laura
Published: May 2020

NCCN Guidelines recommend BRCA genetic testing in individuals with a probability >5% of being a carrier. Nonetheless, the cost-effectiveness of testing individuals with no tumor family history is still debated, especially when BRCA testing is offered by the national health service. Our analysis evaluated the rate of BRCA pathogenic or likely-pathogenic variants in 159 triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients diagnosed ≤60 years, and 109 luminal-like breast cancer (BC) patients diagnosed ≤35 without breast and/or ovarian family histories. In TNBC patients, BRCA mutation prevalence was 22.6% (21.4% BRCA1). Mutation prevalence was 64.2% ≤30 years, 31.8% in patients aged 31–40, 16.1% for those aged 41–50 and 7.9% in 51–60 s. A total of 40% of patients with estrogen receptors (ER) 1–9% were BRCA1 carriers. BRCA detection rate in early-onset BCs was 6.4% (4.6% BRCA2). Mutation prevalence was 0% between 0–25 years, 9% between 26–30 years and 6% between 31–35 years. In conclusion, BRCA testing is recommended in TNBC patients diagnosed ≤60 years, regardless of family cancer history or histotype, and by using immunohistochemical staining <10% for both ER and/PR. In luminal-like early-onset BC, a lower BRCA detection rate was observed, suggesting a role for other predisposing genes along with BRCA genetic testing.
Biomorphic Fibrous TiO2 Photocatalyst Obtained by Hydrothermal Impregnation of Short Flax Fibers with Titanium Polyhydroxocomplexes
Authors: Butman Mikhail F. , Kochkina Nataliya E. , Ovchinnikov Nikolay L. , Zinenko Nikolay V. , Sergeev Dmitry N. , Müller Michael
Published: May 2020

A biomimetic solution technology for producing a photocatalytic material in the form of biomorphic titanium oxide fibers with a hierarchical structure using short flax fiber as a biotemplate is proposed. The impregnation of flax fibers intensified under hydrothermal conditions with a precursor was performed in an autoclave to activate the nucleation of the photoactive TiO2 phases. The interaction between precursor and flax fibers was studied by using infrared spectroscopy (IR) and differential scanning calorimetry/thermogravimetry analysis (DSC/TG). The morphology, structure, and textural properties of the TiO2 fibers obtained at annealing temperatures of 500–700 °C were determined by X-ray diffraction analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and nitrogen adsorption/desorption. It is shown that the annealing temperature of the impregnated biotemplates significantly affects the phase composition, crystallite size, and porous structure of TiO2 fiber samples. The photocatalytic activity of the obtained fibrous TiO2 materials was evaluated by using the decomposition of the cationic dye Rhodamine B in an aqueous solution (concentration 12 mg/L) under the influence of ultraviolet radiation (UV). The maximum photodegradation efficiency of the Rhodamine B was observed for TiO2 fibers annealed at 600 °C and containing 40% anatase and 60% rutile. This sample ensured 100% degradation of the dye in 20 min, and this amount significantly exceeds the photocatalytic activity of the commercial Degussa P25 photocatalyst and TiO2 samples obtained previously under hydrothermal conditions by the sol-gel method.
Efficient N, Fe Co-Doped TiO2 Active under Cost-Effective Visible LED Light: From Powders to Films
Authors: Douven Sigrid , Mahy Julien G. , Wolfs Cédric , Reyserhove Charles , Poelman Dirk , Devred François , Gaigneaux Eric M. , Lambert Stéphanie D.
Published: May 2020

An eco-friendly photocatalytic coating, active under a cost-effective near-visible LED system, was synthesized without any calcination step for the removal of organic pollutants. Three types of doping (Fe, N and Fe + N), with different dopant/Ti molar ratios, were investigated and compared with undoped TiO2 and the commercial P25 photocatalyst. Nano-crystalline anatase-brookite particles were successfully produced with the aqueous sol-gel process, also at a larger scale. All samples displayed a higher visible absorption and specific surface area than P25. Photoactivity of the catalyst powders was evaluated through the degradation of p-nitrophenol in water under visible light (>400 nm). As intended, all samples were more performant than P25. The N-doping, the Fe-doping and their combination promoted the activity under visible light. Films, coated on three different substrates, were then compared. Finally, the photoactivity of a film, produced from the optimal N-Fe co-doped colloid, was evaluated on the degradation of (i) p-nitrophenol under UV-A light (365 nm) and (ii) rhodamine B under LED visible light (395 nm), and compared to undoped TiO2 film. The higher enhancement is obtained under the longer wavelength (395 nm). The possibility of producing photocatalytic films without any calcination step and active under low-energy LED light constitutes a step forward for an industrial development.
Putting the Brakes on Tumorigenesis with Natural Products of Plant Origin: Insights into the Molecular Mechanisms of Actions and Immune Targets for Bladder Cancer Treatment
Authors: Wu Qiushuang , Wong Janet P. C. , Kwok Hang Fai
Published: May 2020

Bladder cancer is the 10th most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide. Although the incidence in men is 4 times higher than that in women, the diagnoses are worse for women. Over the past 30 years, the treatment for bladder cancer has not achieved a significant positive effect, and the outlook for mortality rates due to muscle-invasive bladder cancer and metastatic disease is not optimistic. Phytochemicals found in plants and their derivatives present promising possibilities for cancer therapy with improved treatment effects and reduced toxicity. In this study, we summarize the promising natural products of plant origin with anti-bladder cancer potential, and their anticancer mechanisms—especially apoptotic induction—are discussed. With the developments in immunotherapy, small-molecule targeted immunotherapy has been promoted as a satisfactory approach, and the discovery of novel small molecules against immune targets for bladder cancer treatment from products of plant origin represents a promising avenue of research. It is our hope that this could pave the way for new ideas in the fields of oncology, immunology, phytochemistry, and cell biology, utilizing natural products of plant origin as promising drugs for bladder cancer treatment.
LXRα Regulates ChREBPα Transactivity in a Target Gene-Specific Manner through an Agonist-Modulated LBD-LID Interaction
Authors: Fan Qiong , Nørgaard Rikke Christine , Grytten Ivar , Ness Cecilie Maria , Lucas Christin , Vekterud Kristin , Soedling Helen , Matthews Jason , Lemma Roza Berhanu , Gabrielsen Odd Stokke , Bindesbøll Christian , Ulven Stine Marie , Nebb Hilde Irene , Grønning-Wang Line Mariann , Sæther Thomas
Published: May 2020

The cholesterol-sensing nuclear receptor liver X receptor (LXR) and the glucose-sensing transcription factor carbohydrate responsive element-binding protein (ChREBP) are central players in regulating glucose and lipid metabolism in the liver. More knowledge of their mechanistic interplay is needed to understand their role in pathological conditions like fatty liver disease and insulin resistance. In the current study, LXR and ChREBP co-occupancy was examined by analyzing ChIP-seq datasets from mice livers. LXR and ChREBP interaction was determined by Co-immunoprecipitation (CoIP) and their transactivity was assessed by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) of target genes and gene reporter assays. Chromatin binding capacity was determined by ChIP-qPCR assays. Our data show that LXRα and ChREBPα interact physically and show a high co-occupancy at regulatory regions in the mouse genome. LXRα co-activates ChREBPα and regulates ChREBP-specific target genes in vitro and in vivo. This co-activation is dependent on functional recognition elements for ChREBP but not for LXR, indicating that ChREBPα recruits LXRα to chromatin in trans. The two factors interact via their key activation domains; the low glucose inhibitory domain (LID) of ChREBPα and the ligand-binding domain (LBD) of LXRα. While unliganded LXRα co-activates ChREBPα, ligand-bound LXRα surprisingly represses ChREBPα activity on ChREBP-specific target genes. Mechanistically, this is due to a destabilized LXRα:ChREBPα interaction, leading to reduced ChREBP-binding to chromatin and restricted activation of glycolytic and lipogenic target genes. This ligand-driven molecular switch highlights an unappreciated role of LXRα in responding to nutritional cues that was overlooked due to LXR lipogenesis-promoting function.
Microglia Contribution to the Regulation of the Retinal and Choroidal Vasculature in Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Alves C. Henrique , Fernandes Rosa , Santiago Ana Raquel , Ambrósio António Francisco
Published: May 2020

The retina is a highly metabolically active tissue with high-level consumption of nutrients and oxygen. This high metabolic demand requires a properly developed and maintained vascular system. The retina is nourished by two systems: the central retinal artery that supplies the inner retina and the choriocapillaris that supplies the outer retina and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Pathological neovascularization, characterized by endothelial cell proliferation and new vessel formation, is a common hallmark in several retinal degenerative diseases, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD). A limited number of studies have suggested that microglia, the resident immune cells of the retina, have an important role not only in the pathology but also in the formation and physiology of the retinal vascular system. Here, we review the current knowledge on microglial interaction with the retinal vascular system under physiological and pathological conditions. To do so, we first highlight the role of microglial cells in the formation and maintenance of the retinal vasculature system. Thereafter, we discuss the molecular signaling mechanisms through which microglial cells contribute to the alterations in retinal and choroidal vasculatures and to the neovascularization in AMD.
Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans Induces Autophagy in Human Junctional Epithelium Keratinocytes
Authors: Vicencio Emiliano , Cordero Esteban M. , Cortés Bastián I. , Palominos Sebastián , Parra Pedro , Mella Tania , Henrríquez Constanza , Salazar Nelda , Monasterio Gustavo , Cafferata Emilio A. , Murgas Paola , Vernal Rolando , Cortez Cristian
Published: May 2020

The adverse environmental conditions found in the periodontium during periodontitis pathogenesis stimulate local autophagy responses, mainly due to a continuous inflammatory response against the dysbiotic subgingival microbiome. The junctional epithelium represents the main site of the initial interaction between the host and the dysbiotic biofilm. Here, we investigated the role of autophagy in junctional epithelium keratinocytes (JEKs) in response to Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans or its purified lipopolysaccharides (LPS). Immunofluorescence confocal analysis revealed an extensive nuclear translocation of transcription factor EB (TFEB) and consequently, an increase in autophagy markers and LC3-turnover assessed by immunoblotting and qRT-PCR. Correspondingly, challenged JEKs showed a punctuate cytosolic profile of LC3 protein contrasting with the diffuse distribution observed in untreated controls. Three-dimensional reconstructions of confocal images displayed a close association between intracellular bacteria and LC3-positive vesicles. Similarly, a close association between autophagic vesicles and the protein p62 was observed in challenged JEKs, indicating that p62 is the main adapter protein recruited during A. actinomycetemcomitans infection. Finally, the pharmacological inhibition of autophagy significantly increased the number of bacteria-infected cells as well as their death, similar to treatment with LPS. Our results indicate that A. actinomycetemcomitans infection induces autophagy in JEKs, and this homeostatic process has a cytoprotective effect on the host cells during the early stages of infection.
Highly Conductive Zinc Oxide Based Transparent Conductive Oxide Films Prepared Using RF Plasma Sputtering Under Reducing Atmosphere
Authors: Salimian Ali , Hasnath Abul , Anguilano Lorna , Onwukwe Uchechukwu , Aminishahsavarani Arjang , Sachez Cova , Upadhyaya Hari
Published: May 2020

The spectral properties and colour functions of a radio frequency (RF)-based sputtering plasma source was monitored during consecutive sputter deposition of zinc doped indium oxide (IZO) thin films under argon and argon/hydrogen mix. The effect of target exposure to the hydrogen gas on charge density/mobility and spectral transmittance of the deposited films was investigated. We demonstrate that consecutive exposure to the hydrogen gas during the deposition process progressively affects the properties of thin films with a certain degree of continuous improvement in electrical conductivity while demonstrating that reverting to only argon from argon/ hydrogen mix follows a complex pathway, which has not been reported previously in such detail to our knowledge. We then demonstrate that this effect can be used to prepare highly conductive zinc oxide thin films without indium presence and as such eliminating the need for the expensive indium addition. We shall demonstrate that complexity observed in emission spectra can be simply identified by monitoring the colour of the plasma through its colour functions, making this technique a simple real-time monitoring method for the deposition process.
Transparent Conductive p-Type Cuprous Oxide Films in Vis-NIR Region Prepared by Ion-Beam Assisted DC Reactive Sputtering
Authors: Dai Ming-Jiang , Lin Song-Sheng , Shi Qian , Liu Fen , Wang Wan-Xia , Chen Sheng-Chi , Kuo Tsung-Yen , Sun Hui
Published: May 2020

Cu2O thin film has been widely studied due to its intrinsic p-type conductivity. It can be used as p-type transparent conductive electrode or hole transport layer in various potential applications. However, its intrinsic p-type conductivity is very limited, which needs to be optimized by introducing acceptor defects. In this work, the electrical properties of the Cu2O films was improved through introducing interstitial oxygen in the films those were deposited via direct current sputtering assisted by oxygen ion beam. The results show that with oxygen ion beam current increase, the carrier concentration effectively improves. However, with more interstitial oxygen introduced, the film’s crystallinity significantly reduces, as well as the carrier mobility decreases. Meanwhile, all of the Cu2O films present moderate transmittance in the visible region (400–800 nm), but ideal transmittance in the near infrared (NIR) light region (800–2500 nm). When compared with the strong reflection of the n-type transparent conductive film to the near infrared light, the Cu2O film is transparent conductive in NIR region, which expands its application in the fabrication of NIR electrical devices.
Creating Collections with Embedded Documents for Document Databases Taking into Account the Queries
Authors: Shichkina Yulia , Ha Muon
Published: May 2020

In this article, we describe a new formalized method for constructing the NoSQL document database of MongoDB, taking into account the structure of queries planned for execution to the database. The method is based on set theory. The initial data are the properties of objects, information about which is stored in the database, and the set of queries that are most often executed or whose execution speed should be maximum. In order to determine the need to create embedded documents, our method uses the type of relationship between tables in a relational database. Our studies have shown that this method is in addition to the method of creating collections without embedded documents. In the article, we also describe a methodology for determining in which cases which methods should be used to make working with databases more efficient. It should be noted that this approach can be used for translating data from MySQL to MongoDB and for the consolidation of these databases.
Effects of Fermented Oils on Alpha-Biodiversity and Relative Abundance of Cheek Resident Skin Microbiota
Authors: Ciardiello Tiziana , Pinto Daniela , Marotta Laura , Giuliani Giammaria , Rinaldi Fabio
Published: May 2020

The skin microbiome is in a very close mutualistic relationship with skin cells, influencing their physiology and immunology and participating in many dermatological conditions. Today, there is much interest in cosmetic ingredients that may promote a healthy microbiome, especially postbiotics, mainly derived from fermented products. In the present work, we studied the effects on skin microbiota of new patented natural oils obtained by unique fermentation technology in vivo. Three fermented oils were evaluated: F-Shiunko (FS), F-Artemisia® (FA) and F-Glycyrrhiza® (FG). The active components were included as single active component or in combination (FSAG) in an emulsion system. A total of 20 healthy women were recruited, and skin microbiota from cheek were analyzed by mean of swab sampling at T0 and T1 (after 4 weeks of a one-day treatment). 16S sequencing revealed that the treatment with fermented oils improved microbiome composition and alpha-diversity. It was shown that higher biodiversity reflects in a healthier microbial ecosystem since microbial diversity decreases in the presence of a disease or due to aging. The treatment also resulted in a more “beneficial” and “younger” microbial community since a significant decrease in Proteobacteria and the increase in Staphylococcus were reported after the treatment with fermented oils.
Interactions on the Interface between Two Liquid Crystal Materials
Authors: Geršak Rok , Čopar Simon
Published: May 2020

In liquid crystal applications, boundary conditions are essential to ensuring suitable bulk molecular orientation and a deterministic response to external fields. Be it confinement to a droplet or a shell, a glass plate, or an interface with air or another liquid, proper surface alignment must be ensured—mechanically by rubbing, by chemical treatment that adds a layer of aligning molecules, by using photoalignment or even by leaving the surface untreated, using the intrinsic properties of the substrate itself. The anchoring can be classified as unidirectional (perpendicular homeotropic, or at oblique angles), or degenerate (planar or pre-tilted). However, if both substances at the interface are anisotropic, more diverse behaviour is expected. Here, we present a numerical simulation of a nematic droplet in a nematic host, and investigate behaviour of the director field and defects at the interface for different interfacial couplings. Finally, we compare the simulations to experimental images of discotic droplets in a calamitic nematic host.
Effect of the Zr-Substitution on the Structural and Electrical Properties of LaFeO3: XRD, Raman Scattering, SEM, and Impedance Spectroscopy Study
Authors: Triyono Djoko , Purnamasari Ismi , Rafsanjani Rifqi Almusawi
Published: May 2020

The LaFe1−xZrxO3 (x = 0.01, 0.05) ceramics were prepared by sol-gel and annealing method and studied by XRD, Raman scattering analysis, SEM, and impedance spectroscopy method. The crystal structure and phonon characteristics analysis revealed that the crystal structure tends to preserve its ideal orthorhombic structure, following the increase in driving force of the Fe/ZrO6 octahedral tilting. The frequency-dependent dielectric parameters at each temperature decreased with increasing Zr content. The temperature dependence dielectric relaxation and dc conduction mechanism satisfied the Arrhenius law and increased with increasing Zr content. The activation energy ranged from 0.30 to 0.50 eV and was similar in the relaxation and conduction mechanisms, indicating that both transport mechanisms were based on a similar mechanism.
Enhanced Photocatalytic and Antibacterial Activities of K2Ti6O13 Nanowires Induced by Copper Doping
Authors: Zhang Weiwei , Wang Xin , Ma Yuanhui , Wang Haoran , Qi Yumin , Cui Chunxiang
Published: May 2020

Cu-doped K2Ti6O13 (Cu–KTO) nanowires were prepared using a combination of sol–gel and hydrothermal methods to improve the photocatalytic and antibacterial performance of K2Ti6O13 (KTO) nanowires. The Cu–KTO nanowires maintained the monoclinic structure of KTO. The Cu2+ ions could enter into the lattice of KTO by substituting for certain Ti4+ ions and cause the formation of defects and oxygen vacancies. The UV–Visible absorption spectra showed that after Cu doping, the absorption edge of KTO moved to the visible region, indicating that the band gap decreased and the ability to absorb visible light was acquired. The photocatalytic properties of the Cu–KTO nanowires with different doping amounts were assessed by simulating the photodegradation of rhodamine B (RhB) under simulated sunlight irradiation. The 1.0 mol% Cu–KTO nanowires showed the best photocatalytic performance, and 91% of RhB was decomposed by these nanowires (the catalyst dose was only 0.3 g/L) within 5 h. The performance of the Cu–KTO nanowires was much better than that of the KTO nanowires. The Cu–KTO nanowires also showed high antibacterial activity for Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922) of up to 99.9%, which was higher than that of the pure KTO samples. Results proved that Cu doping is an effective means to develop multifunctional KTO nanomaterials. It can be used to degrade organic pollutants and remove harmful bacteria simultaneously in water environments.
Micractinium tetrahymenae (Trebouxiophyceae, Chlorophyta), a New Endosymbiont Isolated from Ciliates
Authors: Pröschold Thomas , Pitsch Gianna , Darienko Tatyana
Published: May 2020

Endosymbiosis between coccoid green algae and ciliates are widely distributed and occur in various phylogenetic lineages among the Ciliophora. Most mixotrophic ciliates live in symbiosis with different species and genera of the so-called Chlorella clade (Trebouxiophyceae). The mixotrophic ciliates can be differentiated into two groups: (i) obligate, which always live in symbiosis with such green algae and are rarely algae-free and (ii) facultative, which formed under certain circumstances such as in anoxic environments an association with algae. A case of the facultative endosymbiosis is found in the recently described species of Tetrahymena, T. utriculariae, which lives in the bladder traps of the carnivorous aquatic plant Utricularia reflexa. The green endosymbiont of this ciliate belonged to the genus Micractinium. We characterized the isolated algal strain using an integrative approach and compared it to all described species of this genus. The phylogenetic analyses using complex evolutionary secondary structure-based models revealed that this endosymbiont represents a new species of Micractinium, M. tetrahymenae sp. nov., which was further confirmed by the ITS2/CBC approach.
Optimization Protocol of Fixation Method for Trophoblast Retrieval from the Cervix (TRIC): A Preliminary Study
Authors: Lee Min Jin , Kim Soo Hyun , Shim Sung Han , Jang Hee Yeon , Park Hee Jin , Cha Dong Hyun
Published: May 2020

Extravillous trophoblast cells (EVTs) secreted by the uterine cavity may help overcome limitations associated with prenatal testing currently in use. EVTs are isolated using a routine safe liquid-based Pap test (called ThinPrep); however, the ThinPrep solution contains alcohol that hinders the isolation of intact EVTs. We compared the trophoblastic cell isolation efficiency of two different methods of fixation: Thinprep (pre-fixation method) and formalin (post-fixation method). We analyzed EVTs from 20 pregnant women (5–20 weeks of gestation) who underwent invasive prenatal testing. The percentages of placental β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG)-expressing cells were calculated. The presence of XY chromosomes were used to confirm pure trophoblast cells by fluorescence in situ hybridization. The β-hCG-positive cells obtained from pre- and post-fixation were 66.4 ± 13.3% and 83.2 ± 8.1% (p = 0.003), respectively, and fluorescence-positive cells were 11.1 ± 2.1% and 23.8 ± 4.8%, respectively (p = 0.001). Post-fixation was found to be more efficient in isolating non-trophoblast cells than pre-fixation. For the successful clinical application of trophoblast retrieval and isolation from the cervix in prenatal genetic testing, each step should be optimized for consistent and reliable results.