bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antifungal, Antitumoral and Antioxidant Potential of the Danube Delta Nymphaea alba Extracts
Authors: Cudalbeanu Mihaela , Furdui Bianca , Cârâc Geta , Barbu Vasilica , Iancu Alina Viorica , Marques Fernanda , Leitão Jorge Humberto , Sousa Sílvia Andreia , Dinica Rodica Mihaela
Published: December 2019

This study aimed to explore for the first time the biological properties such as antifungal, antitumoral and antioxidant of Danube Delta Nymphaea alba (N. alba) leaf and root methanolic extracts. The toxicity studies of N. alba extracts showed no inhibitory effect on wheat seed germination by evaluating the most sensitive physiological parameters (Germination %, Germination index, Vigor index) and using confocal laser scanning microscopy images. The analyzed extracts were found to have high antifungal activity against Candida glabrata with MIC values of 1.717 µg/mL for leaf and 1.935 µg/mL for root. The antitumor activity of the both extracts against A2780/A2780cisR ovarian, LNCaP prostate and MCF-7 breast cancer cells was promising with IC50 values ranging from 23–274 µg/mL for leaf and 18–152 µg/mL for root, and the combination of N. alba extracts with cisplatin showed a synergistic effect (coefficient of drug interaction <1). The antioxidant properties were assessed by β-carotene bleaching, ABTS and FRAP assays and cyclic voltammetry. Quercetin, the most prominent antioxidant, was quantified in very good yields by spectroelectrochemical assay.
The Structure Features and Improving Effects of Polysaccharide from Astragalus membranaceus on Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea
Authors: Li Shanshan , Qi Yuli , Ren Duoduo , Qu Di , Sun Yinshi
Published: December 2019

Astragalus membranaceus (Astragalus) is often used as a medical and food resource in China. The present study was designed to investigate the features and effects of polysaccharide from Astragalus membranaceus (WAP) on rats with antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD). WAP was mainly composed of glucose, galactose, arabinose and glacturonic acid, with glucan, arabinogalactan and RG-I regions, and it showed loosely irregular sheet conformation. WAP decreased the inflammatory cell infiltration of colon in AAD rats, increased propionate and butyrate production, improved metabolic levels, adjusted the diversity and composition of gut microbiota, increased the relative abundance of Pseudomonas, and decreased the relative abundance of Allobaculum and Coprococcus. In conclusion, WAP contained different types of polysaccharide regions and sheet three-dimensional conformation, while it ameliorated AAD by recovering the colon structure, adjusting the gut microbiota, and improving the SCFAs levels. The results can provide some data basis for natural products to alleviate the side effects related to antibiotics.
The Usefulness of Microalgae Compounds for Preventing Biofilm Infections
Authors: López Yuly , Soto Sara M.
Published: December 2019

Biofilms play an important role in infectious diseases. It has been estimated that most medical infections are due to bacterial biofilms, and about 60–70% of nosocomial infections are also caused by the formation of a biofilm. Historically, microalgae are an important source of bioactive compounds, having novel structures and potential biological functions that make them attractive for different industries such as food, animal feed, aquaculture, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical. Several studies have described compounds produced by microalgae and cyanobacteria species with antimicrobial activity. However, studies on the antibiofilm activity of extracts and/or molecules produced by these microorganisms are scarce. Quorum-sensing inhibitor and anti-adherent agents have, among others, been isolated from microalgae and cyanobacteria species. The use of tools such as nanotechnology increase their power of action and can be used for preventing and treating biofilm-related infections.
A Combination of Rosa Canina Extracts and Gold Complex Favors Apoptosis of Caco-2 Cells by Increasing Oxidative Stress and Mitochondrial Dysfunction
Authors: Mármol Inés , Jiménez-Moreno Nerea , Ancín-Azpilicueta Carmen , Osada Jesús , Cerrada Elena , Rodríguez-Yoldi María Jesús
Published: December 2019

Given the alarming increase in colorectal cancer (CRC) worldwide, novel therapies are urgently needed. Plant-derived extracts have gained considerable interest in the last years due to their strong anticancer effect mediated by their unique bioactive compounds. Specifically, rosehips from Rosa canina have been successfully tested against several cancer models, including colon cancer. Moreover, gold derivatives are a promising alternative to the current platinum-based drugs commonly used in CRC chemotherapy due to their lack of affinity for DNA. Herein we have investigated the antitumor potential of a drug combination made of acidic polyphenols extracted from R. canina and the gold complex (Au(C≡C-2-NC5H4) (PTA)) in Caco-2 cell line as a model of CRC. The combination triggered strong apoptosis mediated by a blockage of the autophagic flux, which might be a consequence of a reactive oxygen species (ROS) increase and mitochondrial dysfunctionality. Our results suggest that the clinical application of plant polyphenols might enhance the anticancer effect of metallodrugs and reduce drug exposure time and therefore its side effects.
Influences of Temperature and Substrate Particle Content on Granular Sludge Bed Anaerobic Digestion
Authors: Tassew Fasil Ayelegn , Bergland Wenche Hennie , Dinamarca Carlos , Bakke Rune
Published: December 2019

Influences of temperature (25–35 °C) and substrate particulate content (3.0–9.4 g total suspended solids (TSS)/L) on granular sludge bed anaerobic digestion (AD) were analyzed in lab-scale reactors using manure as a substrate and through modeling. Two particle levels were tested using raw (RF) and centrifuged (CF) swine manure slurries, fed into a 1.3-L lab-scale up-flow anaerobic sludge bed reactor (UASB) at temperatures of 25 °C and 35 °C. Biogas production increased with temperature in both high- and low-particle-content substrates; however, the temperature effect was stronger on high-particle-content substrate. RF and CF produced a comparable amount of biogas at 25 °C, suggesting that biogas at this temperature came mainly from the digestion of small particles and soluble components present in similar quantities in both substrates. At 35 °C, RF showed significantly higher biogas production than CF, which was attributed to increased (temperature-dependent) disintegration of larger solid particulates. Anaerobic Digestion Model No.1 (ADM1) based modeling was carried out by separating particulates into fast and slow disintegrating fractions and introducing temperature-dependent disintegration constants. Simulations gave a better fit for the experimental data than the conventional ADM1 model.
Detection of Choroidal Neovascularization by Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography with Assistance from Use of the Image Segmentation Method
Authors: Cheng Yuan-Shao , Lin Shih-Huan , Hsiao Chih-Yu , Chang Chia-Jen
Published: December 2019

Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) is a popular medical imaging technology that can quickly establish a three-dimensional model of the fundus without dye injection. However the number of images in a model is quite large, so finding the lesions through image processing technology can greatly reduce the time required for the judgment of the condition. This paper proposes a method for finding choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in OCTA images. Among the several characteristics of CNV, the larger turning angle of blood vessels is a relatively clear feature, so we will use this property to find out whether there is CNV in an OCTA image. We will transform the color space to CIELAB space, and extract the L-channel prior to preceding to the next step. We will then use some image segmentation methods to find the clearer vessel region. Finally, we will detect the CNV through certain morphology methods. The experimental result shows that our proposed method can effectively find the CNV in the OCTA image, meaning that we can make automated judgments through this method in the future and reduce the time necessary for human judgment.
Artificial Auditory Perception Pattern Recognition System Based on Spatiotemporal Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Fang Xia , Fang Han , Feng Zhan , Wang Jie , Zhou Libin
Published: December 2019

It is difficult to combine human sensory cognition with quality detection to form a pattern recognition system based on human perception. In the future, miniature stepper motor modules will be widely used in advanced intelligent equipment. However, the reducer module based on powder metallurgy parts and the stepper motor may have various defects during operation, with varying definitions of those that affect the user comfort. It is tremendously important to develop an intelligent system to effectively simulate human senses. In this work, an elaborated personification of the perceptual system is proposed to simulate the ventral and flow of the human perception system: two branch systems consisting of a spatiotemporal convolutional neural network (S-CNN) and a concatenated HoppingNet temporal convolutional neural network (T-CNN). To ensure high robustness of the system, we combined principal component analysis (PCA) with the opinions of an experienced quality control (QC) team members to screen the data, and used a bionic ear to simulate human perception characteristics. After repeated comparisons of the tester, the results show that our anthropoid pattern sensing system has high accuracy and robustness for a stepper motor module.
Substitution Effects on the Optoelectronic Properties of Coumarin Derivatives
Authors: Kumar Amit , Baccoli Roberto , Fais Antonella , Cincotti Alberto , Pilia Luca , Gatto Gianluca
Published: December 2019

Coumarin derivatives have gathered major attention largely due to their versatile utility in a wide range of applications. In this framework, we report a comparative computational investigation on the optoelectronic properties of 3-phenylcoumarin and 3-heteroarylcoumarin derivatives established as enzyme inhibitors. Specifically, we concentrate on the variation in the optoelectronic characteristics for the hydroxyl group substitutions within the coumarin moiety. In order to realize our aims, all-electron density functional theory and time dependent density functional theory calculations were performed with a localized Gaussian basis-set matched with a hybrid exchange–correlation functionals. Molecular properties such as highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) energies, vertical ionization (IEV) and electron affinity energies, absorption spectra, quasi-particle gap, and exciton binding energy values are examined. Furthermore, the influence of solvent on the optical properties of the molecules is considered. We found a good agreement between the experimental (8.72 eV) and calculated (8.71 eV) IEV energy values for coumarin. The computed exciton binding energy of the investigated molecules indicated their potential optoelectronics application.
Noise-Robust Voice Conversion Using High-Quefrency Boosting via Sub-Band Cepstrum Conversion and Fusion
Authors: Miao Xiaokong , Sun Meng , Zhang Xiongwei , Wang Yimin
Published: December 2019

This paper presents a noise-robust voice conversion method with high-quefrency boosting via sub-band cepstrum conversion and fusion based on the bidirectional long short-term memory (BLSTM) neural networks that can convert parameters of vocal tracks of a source speaker into those of a target speaker. With the implementation of state-of-the-art machine learning methods, voice conversion has achieved good performance given abundant clean training data. However, the quality and similarity of the converted voice are significantly degraded compared to that of a natural target voice due to various factors, such as limited training data and noisy input speech from the source speaker. To address the problem of noisy input speech, an architecture of voice conversion with statistical filtering and sub-band cepstrum conversion and fusion is introduced. The impact of noises on the converted voice is reduced by the accurate reconstruction of the sub-band cepstrum and the subsequent statistical filtering. By normalizing the mean and variance of the converted cepstrum to those of the target cepstrum in the training phase, a cepstrum filter was constructed to further improve the quality of the converted voice. The experimental results showed that the proposed method significantly improved the naturalness and similarity of the converted voice compared to the baselines, even with the noisy inputs of source speakers.
Fault Detection in Multi-Core C&I Cable via Machine Learning Based Time-Frequency Domain Reflectometry
Authors: Lee Chun-Kwon , Chang Seung Jin
Published: December 2019

The integrity and functionality of the control and instrumentation (C&I) cable systems are essential when it comes to ensuring the reliability and safety of system operations, especially in vehicles or power plants. Whenever a fault occurs in a multi-core cable, it not only affects signals of the individual faulty line but inflicts the rest through crosstalk and noise interference. Thus, it is imperative that cable diagnostic technologies are eligible of detecting the fault and further differentiating the faulty line to prevent the original fault from jeopardizing the entire system operation. We propose here a diagnostic method which detects the presence and the location of a fault, and further differentiates the faulty line within the multi-core C&I cables using a machine learning algorithm based on the time-frequency domain reflectometry results. Neural networks and the hierarchy clustering algorithm are used for fault detection and the identification of the faulty line. The proposed clustering algorithm is verified via experiments with four possible fault scenarios using automotive wires and C&I cables for nuclear power plants. Hence, the proposed algorithm allows a fault in multi-core cables to be accurately detected and estimated when given the location and the reflection coefficient of a fault.
NMR CAPIBarA: Proof of Principle of a Low-Field Unilateral Magnetic Resonance System for Monitoring of the Placenta during Pregnancy
Authors: Morris Robert H. , Almazrouei Najlaa K. , Trabi Christophe L. , Newton Michael I.
Published: December 2019

A growing body of literature shows that the transverse relaxation times of the placenta change during pregnancy and may be an early indicator of disease. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of pregnant women is not, however, currently used frequently despite this evidence. One significant barrier to adoption is the cost of undertaking an MRI scan and the over utilization of existing equipment. Low-field nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) offers a low-cost alternative, capable of measuring transverse relaxation in a single point in space. Ultrasound imaging (US) is routinely used at several points during pregnancy but is not capable of early detection of pre-eclampsia, for example. It does, however, provide a technique that is capable of locating the placenta with ease. In combination with a single point low-field measurement, localised with ultrasound imaging allows access to this exciting technique without the need for an expensive traditional MRI. In this work, we present a unilateral system (NMR CAPIBarA), operating at a magnetic field of only 18mT, which measures transverse relaxation times at distances from its surface equivalent to the positioning of a human placenta. Data are presented to characterise the system using relation time standards covering the full transverse relaxation time range relevant for the developing placenta, which are also measured on a 1.5 T clinical MRI scanner.
Particulate Matter and Its Impact on Mortality among Elderly Residents of Seoul, South Korea
Authors: Kim Satbyul Estella , Hijioka Yasuaki , Nagashima Tatsuya , Kim Ho
Published: December 2019

Climate change, air pollution, and the rapidly aging population are important public health challenges. An understanding of air pollution impacts is imperative for preventing air-pollution-related deaths and illnesses, particularly in vulnerable subgroups such as the increasing population of older adults. To assess the effects of short-term air-pollution exposure on the elderly, we conducted a time-series analysis (1996–2015) of the associations between particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of <10 μm (PM10) and deaths among elderly residents of Seoul, South Korea, which has a rapidly aging population. We also investigated the synergistic effects of temperature and the lag structures of the effects by sex, cause of death, and season. A 10 μg/m3 rise in the 4-day moving average concentration of PM10 was associated with 0.31% (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.18% to 0.44%), 0.32% (95% CI: 0.09% to 0.55%), and 0.22% (95% CI: –0.23% to 0.66%) increases in non-accidental, cardiovascular, and respiratory mortalities, respectively. We found a significant and strong synergistic effect of PM10 concentration and ambient temperature on mortality in elderly people. PM10 posed an increased risk of non-accidental or cardiovascular mortality with increasing temperature, whereas the associated risk of respiratory death was highest on very cold days. The shape and length of the lag structure varied with the cause of death, sex, and season. Results indicate that elderly people exposed to PM10 are at increased risk of premature death. In the near future, these risks are likely to increase in step with the temperature rise associated with climate change and the continued population aging. Stronger emission controls will be needed to minimize the increased health risks associated with air pollution, especially in regions with high populations of elderly individuals.
Synthesis and Application of a Thermoplastic Plate of Poly(lactide-ε-caprolactone) for Radiation Therapy
Authors: Li Hongli , Li Wenzhi , Wu Hongtao , Jiang Dengbang , Yuan Mingwei , Yuan Minglong
Published: December 2019

In this study, the poly(lactide-ε-caprolactone) (P(LA-CL)) copolymer is synthesized by ring-opening polymerization with glycol used as a molecular weight regulator to adjust the molecular weight of the polymer. The proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and gel permeation chromatography (GPC) results demonstrate that the P(LA-CL) copolymer is successfully synthesized, and that the molecular weight can be controlled by the glycol content. The thermoplastic plate is processed with triallyl isocyanurate as a cross-linking agent by a single-screw extruder followed by γ-ray irradiation. Shape memory test results show that the material had the desired shape memory effect, with deformation recovery rates reaching 100%. After secondary stretching of samples, deformation recovery rates are unchanged. The results of mechanical property measurements indicate that with added lactide, the tensile strength is improved and shore hardness is increased by 20%–30%. Data from clinical trials also reveal that the material has good clinical effects in thermoplastic membrane fixation.
Inhibition of Growth of TSC2-Null Cells by a PI3K/mTOR Inhibitor but Not by a Selective MNK1/2 Inhibitor
Authors: Evans Jilly F. , Rue Ryan W. , Mukhitov Alexander R. , Obraztsova Kseniya , Smith Carly J. , Krymskaya Vera P.
Published: December 2019

Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is a rare metastatic cystic lung disease due to a mutation in a TSC tumor suppressor, resulting in hyperactive mTOR growth pathways. Sirolimus (rapamycin), an allosteric mTORC1 inhibitor, is a therapeutic option for women with LAM but it only maintains lung volume during treatment and does not provide benefit for all LAM patients. The two major mTORC1 protein synthesis pathways are via S6K/S6 or 4E-BP/eIF4E activation. We aimed to investigate rapamycin in combination with compounds that target associated growth pathways, with the potential to be additive to rapamycin. In this study we demonstrated that rapamycin, at a clinically tolerable concentration (10 nM), inhibited the phosphorylation of S6, but not the critical eIF4E releasing Thr 37/46 phosphorylation sites of 4E-BP1 in TSC2-deficient LAM-derived cells. We also characterized the abundant protein expression of peIF4E within LAM lesions. A selective MNK1/2 inhibitor eFT508 inhibited the phosphorylation of eIF4E but did not reduce TSC2-null cell growth. In contrast, a PI3K/mTOR inhibitor omipalisib blocked the phosphorylation of Akt and both S6K/S6 and 4E-BP/eIF4E branches, and additively decreased the growth of TSC2-null cells with rapamycin. Omipalisib, or another inhibitor of both major mTORC1 growth pathways and pAkt, might provide therapeutic options for TSC2-deficient cancers including, but not limited to, LAM.
Naphtho-Gamma-Pyrones Produced by Aspergillus tubingensis G131: New Source of Natural Nontoxic Antioxidants
Authors: Carboué Quentin , Maresca Marc , Herbette Gaëtan , Roussos Sevastianos , Hamrouni Rayhane , Bombarda Isabelle
Published: December 2019

Seven naphtho-gamma-pyrones (NγPs), including asperpyrone E, aurasperone A, dianhydroaurasperone C, fonsecin, fonsecinone A, fonsecin B, and ustilaginoidin A, were isolated from Aspergillus tubingensis G131, a non-toxigenic strain. The radical scavenging activity of these NγPs was evaluated using ABTS assay. The Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity on the seven isolated NγPs ranged from 2.4 to 14.6 μmol L−1. The toxicity and ability of the NγPs to prevent H2O2-mediated cell death were evaluated using normal/not cancerous cells (CHO cells). This cell-based assay showed that NγPs: (1) Are not toxic or weakly toxic towards cells and (2) are able to protect cells from oxidant injuries with an IC50 on H2O2-mediated cell death ranging from 2.25 to 1800 μmol mL−1. Our data show that A. tubingensis G131 strain is able to produce various NγPs possessing strong antioxidant activities and low toxicities, making this strain a good candidate for antioxidant applications in food and cosmetic industries.
Structural and Functional Analyses of Human ChaC2 in Glutathione Metabolism
Authors: Nguyen Yen T. K. , Park Joon Sung , Jang Jun Young , Kim Kyung Rok , Vo Tam T. L. , Kim Kyu-Won , Han Byung Woo
Published: December 2019

Glutathione (GSH) degradation plays an essential role in GSH homeostasis, which regulates cell survival, especially in cancer cells. Among human GSH degradation enzymes, the ChaC2 enzyme acts on GSH to form 5-l-oxoproline and Cys-Gly specifically in the cytosol. Here, we report the crystal structures of ChaC2 in two different conformations and compare the structural features with other known γ-glutamylcyclotransferase enzymes. The unique flexible loop of ChaC2 seems to function as a gate to achieve specificity for GSH binding and regulate the constant GSH degradation rate. Structural and biochemical analyses of ChaC2 revealed that Glu74 and Glu83 play crucial roles in directing the conformation of the enzyme and in modulating the enzyme activity. Based on a docking study of GSH to ChaC2 and binding assays, we propose a substrate-binding mode and catalytic mechanism. We also found that overexpression of ChaC2, but not mutants that inhibit activity of ChaC2, significantly promoted breast cancer cell proliferation, suggesting that the GSH degradation by ChaC2 affects the growth of breast cancer cells. Our structural and functional analyses of ChaC2 will contribute to the development of inhibitors for the ChaC family, which could effectively regulate the progression of GSH degradation-related cancers.
Cubes or Pellets in Mental-Rotation Tests: Effects on Gender Differences and on the Performance in a Subsequent Math Test
Authors: Rahe Martina , Quaiser-Pohl Claudia
Published: December 2019

In mental rotation, males consistently outperform females in performance and confidence. Both can affect math anxiety. In the present study, 107 undergraduate students (85 female) solved a mental-rotation test either with cube (C-MRT) or pellet (P-MRT) figures as stimulus material, then reported their confidence in their ability in the test, and solved a math test. Males performed better than females in both test versions: In the C-MRT, with a large effect, and in the P-MRT, with a small effect, and reported higher scores in their confidence. In math test performance, males scored higher than females when they solved the math test after the C-MRT but not after the P-MRT. The interactions of gender and stimulus material were not significant. Correlations between confidence and math test performance were large for males and not significant for females. Stereotype threat and lift effects are discussed as possible reasons for the varying effects of the stimulus material on the MRT performance of male and female participants.
Synthesis, Spectroscopic Characterization and Photoactivity of Zr(IV) Phthalocyanines Functionalized with Aminobenzoic Acids and Their GO-Based Composites
Authors: Tahershamsi Leili , Gerasymchuk Yuriy , Wedzynska Anna , Ptak Maciej , Tretyakova Iryna , Lukowiak Anna
Published: December 2019

Two complexes of bis(aminobenzoato)zirconium(IV) phthalocyanine and their graphite oxide-based composites were synthesized and characterized in respect of their photochemical properties. Structures of phthalocyanines were confirmed by Mass and infrared spectroscopies. The absorption and photoluminescence spectra were investigated to show various behavior of the complexes in different media (dimethyl sulfoxide and saline). Optical technique (monitoring variation of absorption spectra of diphenylisobenzofuran used as an indicator) was used to prove the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by under light irradiation in the range of the first biological window. The photoactivity of the materials was compared and discussed in terms of their potential ability to be used in biomedical applications, for example, as photosensitizers in photodynamic therapy.
Circulating Extracellular Vesicle MicroRNA as Diagnostic Biomarkers in Early Colorectal Cancer—A Review
Authors: Desmond Brendan J. , Dennett Elizabeth R. , Danielson Kirsty M.
Published: December 2019

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignancies in the developed world, with global deaths expected to double in the next decade. Disease stage at diagnosis is the single greatest prognostic indicator for long-term survival. Unfortunately, early stage CRC is often asymptomatic and diagnosis frequently occurs at an advanced stage, where long-term survival can be as low as 14%. Circulating microRNAs encapsulated in extracellular vesicles (EVs) have recently come to prominence as novel diagnostic markers for cancer. EV-miRNAs are dysregulated in the circulation of CRC patients compared to healthy controls, and several specific miRNA candidates have been posited as diagnostic markers, including miR-21, miR-23a, miR-1246, and miR-92a. This review outlines the current landscape of EV-miRNAs as potential diagnostic markers for CRC, with a specific focus on those able to detect early stage disease.
Single Nucleotide Polymorphism rs6942067 Is a Risk Factor in Young and in Non-Smoking Patients with HPV Negative Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Cardin Guillaume B. , Bernard Monique , Bahig Houda , Nguyen-Tan Phuc Felix , Ballivy Olivier , Filion Edith , Soulieres Denis , Philouze Pierre , Ayad Tareck , Guertin Louis , Bissada Eric , Rodier Francis , Christopoulos Apostolos
Published: December 2019

Genetic factors behind the increasing incidence of human papillomavirus (HPV) negative head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) in young non-smokers are suspected, but have not been identified. Recently, rs6942067, a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located upstream of the DCBLD1 gene, was found associated with non-smoking lung adenocarcinoma. To validate if this SNP is also implicated in HNSCC, participants of The Cancer Genome Atlas HNSCC cohort were investigated for rs6942067 status, associated DCBLD1 expression, and clinical characteristics. Occurrence of the rs6942067 GG genotype is significantly higher in young and in HPV negative non-smoking HNSCC than in other HNSCC. Additionally, rs6942067 GG is associated with higher DCBLD1 expression in HNSCC and patients with high DCBLD1 expression have a worse overall survival at three years, both in univariate and multivariate analysis. Furthermore, high DCBLD1 expression is associated with activation of the integrin signaling pathway and its phosphorylation with EGFR and MET. Collectively, these findings suggest that DCBLD1 plays a critical role in HNSCC and demonstrate an association between rs6942067 and clinical characteristics of young age and HPV negative non-smoking status in HNSCC patients.
Focus-ING on DNA Integrity: Implication of ING Proteins in Cell Cycle Regulation and DNA Repair Modulation
Authors: Archambeau Jérôme , Blondel Alice , Pedeux Rémy
Published: December 2019

The ING family of tumor suppressor genes is composed of five members (ING1-5) involved in cell cycle regulation, DNA damage response, apoptosis and senescence. All ING proteins belong to various HAT or HDAC complexes and participate in chromatin remodeling that is essential for genomic stability and signaling pathways. The gatekeeper functions of the INGs are well described by their role in the negative regulation of the cell cycle, notably by modulating the stability of p53 or the p300 HAT activity. However, the caretaker functions are described only for ING1, ING2 and ING3. This is due to their involvement in DNA repair such as ING1 that participates not only in NERs after UV-induced damage, but also in DSB repair in which ING2 and ING3 are required for accumulation of ATM, 53BP1 and BRCA1 near the lesion and for the subsequent repair. This review summarizes evidence of the critical roles of ING proteins in cell cycle regulation and DNA repair to maintain genomic stability.
ERK Activation Modulates Cancer Stemness and Motility of a Novel Mouse Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cell Line
Authors: Chen Yu-Lin , Liu Ko-Jiunn , Jang Chuan-Wei , Hsu Chia-Chun , Yen Yi-Chen , Liu Yi-Ling , Chuang Tsung-Hsien , Wang Ssu-Han , Fu Yu-Ke , Kuo Ching-Chuan , Chen Ya-Wen
Published: December 2019

We established the NHRI-HN1 cell line from a mouse tongue tumor induced by 4-nitroquinoline 1-oxide (4-NQO)/arecoline, with further selection for cell stemness via in vitro sphere culture, to evaluate potential immunotherapies for oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) in East and Southeast Asia. In vivo and in vitro phenotypic characterization, including tumor growth, immune modulator administration, gene expression, morphology, migration, invasion, and sphere formation assays, were conducted. NHRI-HN1 cells are capable of generating orthotopic tumors in syngeneic mice. Interestingly, immune stimulation via CpG oligodeoxynucleotide (CpG-ODN) dramatically reduced the tumor growth in NHRI-HN1 cell-injected syngeneic mice. The pathways enriched in genes that were differentially expressed in NHRI-HN1 cells when compared to non-tumorigenic cells were similar to those that were identified when comparing human OSCC and non-tumorous tissues. NHRI-HN1 cells have characteristics of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), including enhanced migration and invasion. NHRI-HN1 cells showed aggressive cell growth and sphere formation. The blockage of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activation suppressed cell migration and reduced stemness characteristics in NHRI-HN1 cells, similar to human OSCC cell lines. Our data suggest that NHRI-HN1 cells, showing tumorigenic characteristics of EMT, cancer stemness, and ERK activation, are sufficient in modeling human OSCC and also competent for use in investigating oral cancer immunotherapies.
The Role of E3, E4 Ubiquitin Ligase (UBE4B) in Human Pathologies
Authors: Antoniou Nikolaos , Lagopati Nefeli , Balourdas Dimitrios Ilias , Nikolaou Michail , Papalampros Alexandros , Vasileiou Panagiotis V. S. , Myrianthopoulos Vassilios , Kotsinas Athanassios , Shiloh Yosef , Liontos Michalis , Gorgoulis Vassilis G.
Published: December 2019

The genome is exposed daily to many deleterious factors. Ubiquitination is a mechanism that regulates several crucial cellular functions, allowing cells to react upon various stimuli in order to preserve their homeostasis. Ubiquitin ligases act as specific regulators and actively participate among others in the DNA damage response (DDR) network. UBE4B is a newly identified member of E3 ubiquitin ligases that appears to be overexpressed in several human neoplasms. The aim of this review is to provide insights into the role of UBE4B ubiquitin ligase in DDR and its association with p53 expression, shedding light particularly on the molecular mechanisms of carcinogenesis.
Adsorption Behavior and Electron Structure Engineering of Pd-Based Catalysts for Acetylene Hydrochlorination
Authors: Cen Yaqing , Yue Yuxue , Wang Saisai , Lu Jinyue , Wang Bolin , Jin Chunxiao , Guo Lingling , Hu Zhong-Ting , Zhao Jia
Published: December 2019

Adsorption and activation for substrates and the stability of Pd species in Pd-based catalysts are imperative for their wider adoption in industrial and practical applications. However, the influence factor of these aspects has remained unclear. This indicates a need to understand the various perceptions of the structure–function relationship that exists between microstructure and catalytic performance. Herein, we revisit the catalytic performance of supported-ionic-liquid-phase stabilized Pd-based catalysts with nitrogen-containing ligands as a promoter for acetylene hydrochlorination, and try to figure out their regulation. We found that the absolute value of the differential energy, |Eads(C2H2)-Eads(HCl)|, is negative correlated with the stability of palladium catalysts. These findings imply that the optimization of the electron structure provides a new strategy for designing highly active yet durable Pd-based catalysts.
On ATG4B as Drug Target for Treatment of Solid Tumours—The Knowns and the Unknowns
Authors: Agrotis Alexander , Ketteler Robin
Published: December 2019

Autophagy is an evolutionary conserved stress survival pathway that has been shown to play an important role in the initiation, progression, and metastasis of multiple cancers; however, little progress has been made to date in translation of basic research to clinical application. This is partially due to an incomplete understanding of the role of autophagy in the different stages of cancer, and also to an incomplete assessment of potential drug targets in the autophagy pathway. While drug discovery efforts are on-going to target enzymes involved in the initiation phase of the autophagosome, e.g., unc51-like autophagy activating kinase (ULK)1/2, vacuolar protein sorting 34 (Vps34), and autophagy-related (ATG)7, we propose that the cysteine protease ATG4B is a bona fide drug target for the development of anti-cancer treatments. In this review, we highlight some of the recent advances in our understanding of the role of ATG4B in autophagy and its relevance to cancer, and perform a critical evaluation of ATG4B as a druggable cancer target.
Human and Mouse TRPA1 Are Heat and Cold Sensors Differentially Tuned by Voltage
Authors: Sinica Viktor , Zimova Lucie , Barvikova Kristyna , Macikova Lucie , Barvik Ivan , Vlachova Viktorie
Published: December 2019

Transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 channel (TRPA1) serves as a key sensor for reactive electrophilic compounds across all species. Its sensitivity to temperature, however, differs among species, a variability that has been attributed to an evolutionary divergence. Mouse TRPA1 was implicated in noxious cold detection but was later also identified as one of the prime noxious heat sensors. Moreover, human TRPA1, originally considered to be temperature-insensitive, turned out to act as an intrinsic bidirectional thermosensor that is capable of sensing both cold and heat. Using electrophysiology and modeling, we compare the properties of human and mouse TRPA1, and we demonstrate that both orthologues are activated by heat, and their kinetically distinct components of voltage-dependent gating are differentially modulated by heat and cold. Furthermore, we show that both orthologues can be strongly activated by cold after the concurrent application of voltage and heat. We propose an allosteric mechanism that could account for the variability in TRPA1 temperature responsiveness.
Sleep Problems in School Aged Children: A Common Process across Internalising and Externalising Behaviours?
Authors: Bayes Danielle M. , Bullock Ben
Published: December 2019

Sleep problems are common in childhood and impact cognitive, psychological and physical wellbeing. The current study investigated the association between sleep problems and internalising and externalising behaviour in 114 school-aged children (5–12 years) from four primary schools in Melbourne, Australia. Data were collected using the Sleep Disorder Inventory for Students to measure sleep and the Conners Behavior Rating Scale to assess behaviour, both by parent report. Hierarchical regression analysis, controlling for socioeconomic status and age, identified moderate associations between sleep problems and emotional distress, aggressive behaviour and hyperactivity/impulsivity. Findings suggest screening for sleep problems in children presenting clinically with behavioural issues is a potentially important clinical practice. Additionally, results support the elaboration of transdiagnostic theory, whereby sleep problems are a common process in both internalising and externalising behaviour in children.
Down-Grading of Ipsilateral Hydronephrosis by Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy Correlates with Favorable Oncological Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Radical Nephroureterectomy for Ureteral Carcinoma
Authors: Miyake Makito , Marugami Nagaaki , Fujiwara Yuya , Komura Kazumasa , Inamoto Teruo , Azuma Haruhito , Matsumoto Hiroaki , Matsuyama Hideyasu , Fujimoto Kiyohide
Published: December 2019

Few studies have analyzed the details of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC)-induced changes in patients with upper tract urothelial carcinoma. This study aimed to describe the impact of down-grading ipsilateral hydronephrosis by NAC for ureteral carcinoma. An observational study was conducted in 32 patients with cT1-3N0M0 ureteral carcinoma treated with NAC and radical nephroureterectomy. Hydronephrosis was classified into five grades based on computed tomography findings. We focused on the differences between the baseline and post-NAC status of ipsilateral hydronephrosis, radiographic tumor response, and blood markers. Down-grading, no change, and up-grading was observed in 10 (31%), 21 (66%), and 1 (3%) patients, respectively. In univariate analysis, locally advanced disease (cT3), severe hydronephrosis (grade 3/4) at baseline, no change/up-grading of hydronephrosis after NAC, and pathological lymphovascular involvement were identified as potential prognostic factors of progression-free and cancer-specific survival after radical nephroureterectomy. Locally advanced disease (cT3) at baseline and no change/up-grading of hydronephrosis by NAC were independently associated with poor progression-free survival. Notably, none of the patients with NAC-induced down-grading of hydronephrosis died of ureteral carcinoma during the follow-up. We reported the prognostic impact of down-grading of ipsilateral hydronephrosis, which could serve as a useful aid or clinical marker for decision-making.
Prediction of Optical and Non-Optical Water Quality Parameters in Oligotrophic and Eutrophic Aquatic Systems Using a Small Unmanned Aerial System
Authors: Arango Juan G. , Nairn Robert W.
Published: December 2019

The purpose of this study was to create different statistically reliable predictive algorithms for trophic state or water quality for optical (total suspended solids (TSS), Secchi disk depth (SDD), and chlorophyll-a (Chl-a)) and non-optical (total phosphorus (TP) and total nitrogen (TN)) water quality variables or indicators in an oligotrophic system (Grand River Dam Authority (GRDA) Duck Creek Nursery Ponds) and a eutrophic system (City of Commerce, Oklahoma, Wastewater Lagoons) using remote sensing images from a small unmanned aerial system (sUAS) equipped with a multispectral imaging sensor. To develop these algorithms, two sets of data were acquired: (1) In-situ water quality measurements and (2) the spectral reflectance values from sUAS imagery. Reflectance values for each band were extracted under three scenarios: (1) Value to point extraction, (2) average value extraction around the stations, and (3) point extraction using kriged surfaces. Results indicate that multiple variable linear regression models in the visible portion of the electromagnetic spectrum best describe the relationship between TSS (R2 = 0.99, p-value = <0.01), SDD (R2 = 0.88, p-value = <0.01), Chl-a (R2 = 0.85, p-value = <0.01), TP (R2 = 0.98, p-value = <0.01) and TN (R2 = 0.98, p-value = <0.01). In addition, this study concluded that ordinary kriging does not improve the fit between the different water quality parameters and reflectance values.
Context-Aware Superpixel and Bilateral Entropy—Image Coherence Induces Less Entropy
Authors: Liu Feihong , Zhang Xiao , Wang Hongyu , Feng Jun
Published: December 2019

Superpixel clustering is one of the most popular computer vision techniques that aggregates coherent pixels into perceptually meaningful groups, taking inspiration from Gestalt grouping rules. However, due to brain complexity, the underlying mechanisms of such perceptual rules are unclear. Thus, conventional superpixel methods do not completely follow them and merely generate a flat image partition rather than hierarchical ones like a human does. In addition, those methods need to initialize the total number of superpixels, which may not suit diverse images. In this paper, we first propose context-aware superpixel (CASP) that follows both Gestalt grouping rules and the top-down hierarchical principle. Thus, CASP enables to adapt the total number of superpixels to specific images automatically. Next, we propose bilateral entropy, with two aspects conditional intensity entropy and spatial occupation entropy, to evaluate the encoding efficiency of image coherence. Extensive experiments demonstrate CASP achieves better superpixel segmentation performance and less entropy than baseline methods. More than that, using Pearson’s correlation coefficient, a collection of data with a total of 120 samples demonstrates a strong correlation between local image coherence and superpixel segmentation performance. Our results inversely support the reliability of above-mentioned perceptual rules, and eventually, we suggest designing novel entropy criteria to test the encoding efficiency of more complex patterns.
An Investigation of Fractional Bagley–Torvik Equation
Authors: Zafar Azhar Ali , Kudra Grzegorz , Awrejcewicz Jan
Published: December 2019

In this article, we will solve the Bagley–Torvik equation by employing integral transform method. Caputo fractional derivative operator is used in the modeling of the equation. The obtained solution is expressed in terms of generalized G function. Further, we will compare the obtained results with other available results in the literature to validate their usefulness. Furthermore, examples are included to highlight the control of the fractional parameters on he dynamics of the model. Moreover, we use this equation in modelling of real free oscillations of a one-degree-of-freedom mechanical system composed of a cart connected with the springs to the support and moving via linear rolling bearing block along a rail.
On Augmented Reality for the Learning of 3D-Geometric Contents: A Preliminary Exploratory Study with 6-Grade Primary Students
Authors: Flores-Bascuñana Míriam , Diago Pascual D. , Villena-Taranilla Rafael , Yáñez Dionisio F.
Published: December 2019

Nowadays, Augmented Reality (AR) is one of the emerging technologies with a greater impact in the Education field. Research has proved that AR-based activities improve the teaching and learning processes. Also, the use of this type of technology in classroom facilitates the understanding of contents from different areas as Arts, Mathematics or Science. In this work we propose an AR-based instruction in order to explore the benefits in a 6th-grade Primary course related to 3D-geometry shapes. This first experiment, designed from an exploratory approach, will shed light on new study variables to perform new implementations whose conclusions become more consistent. The results obtained allow us to envisage that AR-based proposals slightly improve the classical didactic methods.
Problem-Oriented Project Learning as a First Year Experience: A Transformative Pedagogy for Entry Level PPL
Authors: Nielsen Niels Møller
Published: December 2019

This paper explores how Problem-oriented Project Learning (PPL) can be organized in a context that meets the pedagogical needs of first year students. Under the assumption that, while PPL provides a fruitful context for learning, it is also challenging for early stage learners, the article formulates the theoretical considerations underlying a strategy for entry-level PPL. On that foundation, this paper discusses a case study where a set of scaffolding structures has been put in place to support the transformative development of first year students acquiring the study habits of PPL. This paper finds that a highly structured approach to entry level PPL promotes the students’ academic achievements as well as their sense of meaning in the PPL programme.
Signal Processing and Analysis of Electrical Circuit
Authors: Glowacz Adam , Daviu Jose Alfonso Antonino
Published: December 2019

The analysis of electrical circuits is an essential task in the evaluation of electrical systems [...]
Investigating the Impact of E-Mobility on the Electrical Power Grid Using a Simplified Grid Modelling Approach
Authors: Vopava Julia , Koczwara Christian , Traupmann Anna , Kienberger Thomas
Published: December 2019

To achieve climate goals, it is necessary to decarbonise the transport sector, which requires an immediate changeover to alternative power sources (e.g., battery powered vehicles). This change will lead to an increase in the demand for electrical energy, which will cause additional stress on power grids. It is therefore necessary to evaluate energy and power requirements of a future society using e-mobility. Therefore, we present a new approach to investigate the influence of increasing e-mobility on a distribution grid level. This includes the development of a power grid model based on a cellular approach, reducing computation efforts, and allowing time and spatially resolved grid stress analysis based on different load and renewable energy source scenarios. The results show that by using the simplified grid model at least seven times, more scenarios can be calculated in the same time. In addition, we demonstrate the capability of this novel approach by analysing the influence of different penetrations of e-mobility on the grid load using a case study, which is calculated using synthetic charging load profiles based on a real-life mobility data. The results from this case study show an increase on line utilisations with increasing e-mobility and the influence of producers at the same connection point as e-mobility.