bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ethnic Identity, Implicit Associations, and Academic Motivation of Hispanic Adolescents
Authors: Urdan Tim , Teramoto Daniel
Published: July 2021

One of the major tasks of adolescence is to integrate the different aspects of identity into a coherent sense of self. Prior research has found that under certain circumstances, students who identify as members of groups about which there are negative stereotypes can experience a disassociation between their academic identity (i.e., academic self-concept) and the aspect of their identity that is negatively stereotyped (i.e., their ethnic or gender identity). In this study, we examined the association between ethnic identity, academic self-concept, valuing of school, and feelings of belonging among a sample of Hispanic high school students attending a majority-Hispanic high school. In addition, we used an Implicit Associations Test (IAT) to assess their implicit associations between success and ethnic group (Hispanic or white). Results indicated that centrality of ethnic identity was positively correlated with academic self-concept and the regard dimension of ethnic identity was associated with feelings of belonging. The IAT indicated that Hispanic students had implicitly associated success more with being white than with being Hispanic.
Production Costs and Benefits of Japonica Rice in Mwea, Kenya
Authors: Watanabe Mamoru , Sumita Yutaka , Azechi Issaku , Ito Kengo , Noda Keigo
Published: July 2021

From the perspective of national food security, strengthening domestic rice production is an urgent issue for Kenya. For this purpose, it is helpful to consider varieties that generate novel and competitive values different from those of conventional varieties. Recently, domestic japonica rice, which is now being distributed, has become an attractive variety with a high market price and its production is expected to increase. Although it is competitive and promising as a crop for small-scale farmers, the production stage costs and benefits are not clear. Thus, a study was conducted to perform a cost–benefit analysis of japonica rice in comparison to conventional rice at the production stage and evaluate strategies for strengthening the domestic production of rice. We conducted an experimental cultivation of japonica rice in the Mwea region, Kenya, where japonica rice is produced. As a result, although production costs for japonica rice are higher than costs for conventional varieties (24.46 KSh/kg versus 22.63 KSh/kg), when a high-yielding variety is grown (6.44 tons/ha for japonica rice compared to 6.07 tons/ha for conventional rice), a larger net profit can be obtained (65.54 KSh/kg versus 32.37 KSh/kg). We believe that initiatives to improve difficulties at the production stage would make the production of both japonica rice and conventional rice more economically viable and facilitate strengthening of the overall domestic rice production.
Sesquiterpene Lactones from Cotula cinerea with Antibiotic Activity against Clinical Isolates of Enterococcus faecalis
Authors: Cimmino Alessio , Roscetto Emanuela , Masi Marco , Tuzi Angela , Radjai Imene , Gahdab Chakali , Paolillo Rossella , Guarino Amedeo , Catania Maria Rosaria , Evidente Antonio
Published: July 2021

Cotula cinerea, belonging to the tribe Anthemideae, is a plant widespread in the Southern hemisphere. It is frequently used in folk medicine in North African countries for several of its medical properties, shown by its extracts and essential oils. The dichloromethane extract obtained from its aerial parts demonstrated antibiotic activity against Enterococcus faecalis and was fractionated by bioguided purification procedures affording five main sesquiterpene lactones. They were identified by spectroscopic methods (NMR and ESIMS data) as guaiantrienolides, i.e., 6-acetoxy-1β-,6-acetoxy-1α-, and 6-acetoxy-10-β-hydroxyguaiantrienolide (1–3), and germacrenolides, i.e., haagenolide and 1,10-epoxyhaagenolide (4 and 5). The absolute configuration was assigned by applying the advanced Mosher’s method to haagenolide and by X-ray diffraction analysis to 1,10-epoxyhaagenolide. The specific antibiotic and antibiofilm activities were tested toward the clinical isolates of Enterococcus faecalis. The results showed that compounds 3–5 have antibacterial activity against all the strains of E. faecalis, while compound 2 exhibited activity only toward some strains. Compound 1 did not show this activity but had only antibiofilm properties. Thus, these metabolites have potential as new antibiotics and antibiofilm against drug resistant opportunistic pathogens.
RND Efflux Systems Contribute to Resistance and Virulence of Aliarcobacter butzleri
Authors: Mateus Cristiana , Nunes Ana Rita , Oleastro Mónica , Domingues Fernanda , Ferreira Susana
Published: July 2021

Aliarcobacter butzleri is an emergent enteropathogen that can be found in a range of environments. This bacterium presents a vast repertoire of efflux pumps, such as the ones belonging to the resistance nodulation cell division family, which may be associated with bacterial resistance, as well as virulence. Thus, this work aimed to evaluate the contribution of three RND efflux systems, AreABC, AreDEF and AreGHI, in the resistance and virulence of A. butzleri. Mutant strains were constructed by inactivation of the gene that encodes the inner membrane protein of these systems. The bacterial resistance profile of parental and mutant strains to several antimicrobials was assessed, as was the intracellular accumulation of the ethidium bromide dye. Regarding bacterial virulence, the role of these three efflux pumps on growth, strain fitness, motility, biofilm formation ability, survival in adverse conditions (oxidative stress and bile salts) and human serum and in vitro adhesion and invasion to Caco-2 cells was evaluated. We observed that the mutants from the three efflux pumps were more susceptible to several classes of antimicrobials than the parental strain and presented an increase in the accumulation of ethidium bromide, indicating a potential role of the efflux pumps in the extrusion of antimicrobials. The mutant strains had no bacterial growth defects; nonetheless, they presented a reduction in relative fitness. For the three mutants, an increase in the susceptibility to oxidative stress was observed, while only the mutant for AreGHI efflux pump showed a relevant role in bile stress survival. All the mutant strains showed an impairment in biofilm formation ability, were more susceptible to human serum and were less adherent to intestinal epithelial cells. Overall, the results support the contribution of the efflux pumps AreABC, AreDEF and AreGHI of A. butzleri to antimicrobial resistance, as well as to bacterial virulence.
Chemical Composition, In Vitro and In Silico Antioxidant Potential of Melissa officinalis subsp. officinalis Essential Oil
Authors: Rădulescu Matilda , Jianu Călin , Lukinich-Gruia Alexandra Teodora , Mioc Marius , Mioc Alexandra , Șoica Codruța , Stana Loredana Gabriela
Published: July 2021

The investigation aimed to study the in vitro and in silico antioxidant properties of Melissa officinalis subsp. officinalis essential oil (MOEO). The chemical composition of MOEO was determined using GC–MS analysis. Among 36 compounds identified in MOEO, the main were beta-cubebene (27.66%), beta-caryophyllene (27.41%), alpha-cadinene (4.72%), caryophyllene oxide (4.09%), and alpha-cadinol (4.07%), respectively. In vitro antioxidant properties of MOEO have been studied in 2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free-radical scavenging, and inhibition of β-carotene bleaching assays. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) for the radical scavenging abilities of ABTS and DPPH were 1.225 ± 0.011 μg/mL and 14.015 ± 0.027 μg/mL, respectively, demonstrating good antioxidant activity. Moreover, MOEO exhibited a strong inhibitory effect (94.031 ± 0.082%) in the β-carotene bleaching assay by neutralizing hydroperoxides, responsible for the oxidation of highly unsaturated β-carotene. Furthermore, molecular docking showed that the MOEO components could exert an in vitro antioxidant activity through xanthine oxidoreductase inhibition. The most active structures are minor MOEO components (approximately 6%), among which the highest affinity for the target protein belongs to carvacrol.
Development and Optimisation of Solid-Phase Extraction of Extractable and Bound Phenolic Acids in Spelt (Triticum spelta L.) Seeds
Authors: Mencin Marjeta , Mikulic-Petkovsek Maja , Veberič Robert , Terpinc Petra
Published: July 2021

A solid-phase extraction (SPE) technique was developed and optimised for isolation and concentration of extractable and bound phenolic acids from germinated spelt seeds, for analysis by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. Samples initially underwent solvent extraction under different conditions to maximise the yield of phenolic antioxidants. Optimal extraction conditions for extractable phenolics were absolute methanol as solvent, sample-to-methanol ratio 1:9, and reconstitution in non-acidified water. The bound phenolics were extracted from sample pellets using hydrolysis with 2 M NaOH, acidification of the hydrolysate with formic acid, and simultaneous isolation and purification using Strata X polymeric RP tubes. Compared to liquid-liquid extraction, this direct SPE protocol has significant advantages in terms of higher extraction efficiencies of total and individual phenolics and their antioxidant activities. These data suggest that direct SPE represents a rapid and reliable method for quantitative analysis of both the extractable and the commonly overlooked bound phenolics in Triticum spelta seeds.
3H-1,2-Dithiole-3-Thione Protects Lens Epithelial Cells against Fructose-Induced Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition via Activation of AMPK to Eliminate AKR1B1-Induced Oxidative Stress in Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Wu Tsung-Tien , Chen Ying-Ying , Ho Chiu-Yi , Yeh Tung-Chen , Sun Gwo-Ching , Tseng Ching-Jiunn , Cheng Pei-Wen
Published: July 2021

Studies demonstrated that the receptor of advanced glycation end products (RAGE) induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) formation in the lens epithelial cells (LECs) of diabetic cataracts. This work investigated how 3H-1,2-dithiole-3-thione (D3T) reduces EMT formation in LECs of the fructose-induced diabetes mellitus (DM). LECs were isolated during cataract surgery from patients without DM or with DM. In a rat model, fructose (10% fructose, eight weeks) with or without D3T (10 mg/kg/day) treatment induced DM, as verified by blood pressure and serum parameter measurements. We observed that the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) was significantly higher in epithelial human lens of DM (+) compared to DM (−) cataracts. Aldose reductase (AKR1B1), AcSOD2, and 3-NT were significantly enhanced in the rat lens epithelial sections of fructose-induced DM, however, the phosphorylation level of AMPKT172 showed a reversed result. Interestingly, administration of D3T reverses the fructose-induced effects in LECs. These results indicated that AMPKT172 may be required for reduced superoxide generation and the pathogenesis of diabetic cataract. Administration of D3T reverses the fructose-induced EMT formation the LECs of fructose-induced DM. These novel findings suggest that the D3T may be a candidate for the pharmacological prevention of cataracts in patients with DM.
Oxidative-Signaling in Neural Stem Cell-Mediated Plasticity: Implications for Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Santos Mafalda Ferreira dos , Roxo Catarina , Solá Susana
Published: July 2021

The adult mammalian brain is capable of generating new neurons from existing neural stem cells (NSCs) in a process called adult neurogenesis. This process, which is critical for sustaining cognition and mental health in the mature brain, can be severely hampered with ageing and different neurological disorders. Recently, it is believed that the beneficial effects of NSCs in the injured brain relies not only on their potential to differentiate and integrate into the preexisting network, but also on their secreted molecules. In fact, further insight into adult NSC function is being gained, pointing to these cells as powerful endogenous “factories” that produce and secrete a large range of bioactive molecules with therapeutic properties. Beyond anti-inflammatory, neurogenic and neurotrophic effects, NSC-derived secretome has antioxidant proprieties that prevent mitochondrial dysfunction and rescue recipient cells from oxidative damage. This is particularly important in neurodegenerative contexts, where oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction play a significant role. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge and the therapeutic opportunities of NSC secretome for neurodegenerative diseases with a particular focus on mitochondria and its oxidative state.
Estimating Turbulence Distribution over a Heterogeneous Path Using Time-Lapse Imagery from Dual Cameras
Authors: Wilson Benjamin , Bose-Pillai Santasri , McCrae Jack , Keefer Kevin , Fiorino Steven
Published: July 2021

Knowledge of turbulence distribution along an experimental path can help in effective turbulence compensation and mitigation. Although scintillometers are traditionally used to measure the strength of turbulence, they provide a path-integrated measurement and have limited operational ranges. A technique to profile turbulence using time-lapse imagery of a distant target from spatially separated cameras is presented here. The method uses the turbulence induced differential motion between pairs of point features on a target, sensed at a single camera and between cameras to extract turbulence distribution along the path. The method is successfully demonstrated on a 511 m almost horizontal path going over half concrete and half grass. An array of Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs) of non-uniform separation is imaged by a pair of cameras, and the extracted turbulence profiles are validated against measurements from 3D sonic anemometers placed along the path. A short-range experiment with a heat source to create local turbulence spike gives good results as well. Because the method is phase-based, it does not suffer from saturation issues and can potentially be applied over long ranges. Although in the present work, a cooperative target has been used, the technique can be used with non-cooperative targets. Application of the technique to images collected over slant paths with elevated targets can aid in understanding the altitude dependence of turbulence in the surface layer.
Energy, Exergy, and Environmental (3E) Analysis of Hydrocarbons as Low GWP Alternatives to R134a in Vapor Compression Refrigeration Configurations
Authors: Ghanbarpour Morteza , Mota-Babiloni Adrián , Badran Bassam E. , Khodabandeh Rahmatollah
Published: July 2021

The phase-down of hydrofluorocarbons and substitution with low global warming potential values are consequences of the awareness about the environmental impacts of greenhouse gases. This theoretical study evaluated the energy and exergy performances and the environmental impact of three vapor compression system configurations operating with the hydrocarbons R290, R600a, and R1270 as alternatives to R134a. The refrigeration cycle configurations investigated in this study include a single-stage cycle, a cycle equipped with an internal heat exchanger, and a two-stage cycle with vapor injection. According to the results, the alternative hydrocarbon refrigerants could provide comparable system performance to R134a. The analysis results also revealed that using an internal heat exchanger or a flash tank vapor injection could improve the system’s efficiency while decreasing the heating capacity. The most efficient configuration was the two-stage refrigeration cycle with vapor injection, as revealed by the exergy analysis. The environmental impact analysis indicated that the utilization of environmentally-friendly refrigerants and improving the refrigeration system’s efficiency could mitigate equivalent CO2 emissions significantly. The utilization of hydrocarbons reduced the carbon footprint by 50%, while a 1% to 8% reduction could be achieved using the internal heat exchanger and flash tank vapor injection.
Lane Detection Algorithm Using LRF for Autonomous Navigation of Mobile Robot
Authors: Han Jong-Ho , Kim Hyun-Woo
Published: July 2021

This paper proposes a lane detection algorithm using a laser range finder (LRF) for the autonomous navigation of a mobile robot. There are many technologies for ensuring the safety of vehicles, such as airbags, ABS, and EPS. Further, lane detection is a fundamental requirement for an automobile system that utilizes the external environment information of automobiles. Representative methods of lane recognition are vision-based and LRF-based systems. In the case of a vision-based system, the recognition of the environment of a three-dimensional space becomes excellent only in good conditions for capturing images. However, there are so many unexpected barriers, such as bad illumination, occlusions, vibrations, and thick fog, that the vision-based method cannot be used for satisfying the abovementioned fundamental requirement. In this paper, a three-dimensional lane detection algorithm using LRF that is very robust against illumination is proposed. For the three-dimensional lane detection, the laser reflection difference between the asphalt and the lane according to color and distance has been utilized with the extraction of feature points. Further, a stable tracking algorithm is introduced empirically in this research. The performance of the proposed algorithm of lane detection and tracking has been experimentally verified.
Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation: State-of-the-Art
Authors: de Sire Alessandro , Invernizzi Marco
Published: July 2021

Musculoskeletal rehabilitation has been receiving growing attention in the scientific research field taking into account the functional consequences of chronic pain that have been frequently underestimated and undertreated. The usual rehabilitative care of a wide range of diseases affecting physical function and independence in activities of daily living needs to be improved with novel approaches. In this scenario, the recent literature has highlighted the great advantages of multidisciplinary and comprehensive pain management. The Special Issue highlights the importance of advancements in musculoskeletal rehabilitation in terms of instrumental physical therapies, therapeutic exercise, osteopathic manual therapy, innovative approaches and the correlation with dentistry. Physicians should be aware of the presence of novel therapeutic approaches that are changing the clinical scenario of musculoskeletal rehabilitation.
A Two-Phase Approach for Predicting Highway Passenger Volume
Authors: Xiang Yun , Chen Jingxu , Yu Weijie , Wu Rui , Liu Bing , Wang Baojie , Li Zhibin
Published: July 2021

With the continuous process of urbanization, regional integration has become an inevitable trend of future social development. Accurate prediction of passenger volume is an essential prerequisite for understanding the extent of regional integration, which is one of the most fundamental elements for the enhancement of intercity transportation systems. This study proposes a two-phase approach in an effort to predict highway passenger volume. The datasets subsume highway passenger volume and impact factors of urban attributes. In Phase I, correlation analysis is conducted to remove highly correlated impact factors, and a random forest algorithm is employed to extract significant impact factors based on the degree of impact on highway passenger volume. In Phase II, a deep feedforward neural network is developed to predict highway passenger volume, which proved to be more accurate than both the support vector machine and multiple regression methods. The findings can provide useful information for guiding highway planning and optimizing the allocation of transportation resources.
An Enhanced Deep Convolutional Neural Network for Classifying Indian Classical Dance Forms
Authors: Jain Nikita , Bansal Vibhuti , Virmani Deepali , Gupta Vedika , Salas-Morera Lorenzo , Garcia-Hernandez Laura
Published: July 2021

Indian classical dance (ICD) classification is an interesting subject because of its complex body posture. It provides a stage to experiment with various computer vision and deep learning concepts. With a change in learning styles, automated teaching solutions have become inevitable in every field, from traditional to online platforms. Additionally, ICD forms an essential part of a rich cultural and intangible heritage, which at all costs must be modernized and preserved. In this paper, we have attempted an exhaustive classification of dance forms into eight categories. For classification, we have proposed a deep convolutional neural network (DCNN) model using ResNet50, which outperforms various state-of-the-art approaches. Additionally, to our surprise, the proposed model also surpassed a few recently published works in terms of performance evaluation. The input to the proposed network is initially pre-processed using image thresholding and sampling. Next, a truncated DCNN based on ResNet50 is applied to the pre-processed samples. The proposed model gives an accuracy score of 0.911.
The Effect of the Expression of the Antiapoptotic BHRF1 Gene on the Metabolic Behavior of a Hybridoma Cell Line
Authors: Martínez-Monge Iván , Comas Pere , Catalán-Tatjer David , Prat Jordi , Casablancas Antoni , Paredes Carlos , Lecina Martí , Cairó Jordi Joan
Published: July 2021

One of the most important limitations of mammalian cells-based bioprocesses, and particularly hybridoma cell lines, is the accelerated metabolism related to glucose and glutamine consumption. The high uptake rates of glucose and glutamine (i.e., the main sources of carbon, nitrogen and energy) lead to the production and accumulation of large amounts of lactate and ammonia in culture broth. Lactate and/or ammonia accumulation, together with the depletion of the main nutrients, are the major causes of apoptosis in hybridoma cell cultures. The KB26.5 hybridoma cell line, producing an IgG3, was engineered with BHRF1 (KB26.5-BHRF1), an Epstein–Barr virus-encoded early protein homologous to the antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2, with the aim of protecting the hybridoma cell line from apoptosis. Surprisingly, besides achieving effective protection from apoptosis, the expression of BHRF1 modified the metabolism of the hybridoma cell line. Cell physiology and metabolism analyses of the original KB26.5 and KB26.5-BHRF1 revealed an increase of cell growth rate, a reduction of glucose and glutamine consumption, as well as a decrease in lactate secretion in KB26.5-BHRF1 cells. A flux balance analysis allowed us to quantify the intracellular fluxes of both cell lines. The main metabolic differences were identified in glucose consumption and, consequently, the production of lactate. The lactate production flux was reduced by 60%, since the need for NADH regeneration in the cytoplasm decreased due to a more than 50% reduction in glucose uptake. In general terms, the BHRF1 engineered cell line showed a more efficient metabolism, with an increase in biomass volumetric productivity under identical culture conditions.
A Spatial History of Independent Art Spaces in Krakow from the 1970s to 2019
Authors: Działek Jarosław
Published: July 2021

Independent art spaces not only play an important role in exploring frontiers in the visual arts but are often also pioneers discovering new artistic territories within cities. Due to their subordinate position in the field of art, they often occupy marginal spaces in terms of their location within the urban structure and/or in terms of their physical visibility within the built environment. Their location outside the established artistic cores reflects, at the same time, their weaker economic standing and wish to distinguish themselves from previous generations of cultural producers. Post-socialist cities offer the opportunity to study the spatial history of independent art spaces under different political and economic systems. In this paper, I have used a detailed database of private art galleries in the period from the 1970s to 2019 and content analysis of press and internet texts about them to uncover the stages of development of independent art venues in Krakow, Poland, an example of a post-socialist city with a rich cultural heritage. They included periods of dispersion within the wider inner-city followed by cycles of concentration in rather neglected quarters that were emerging as epicentres of alternative artistic life only to dissipate due to unfavourable economic conditions and the appearance of the next generations of artists who wanted to mark their distinctive presence both in the art world and in the urban space. I also discuss how independent art spaces were using their usually marginal, temporary and fluid sites in their artistic practices and the accumulation of symbolic capital in the field of art.
Gatekeepers of the Gut: The Roles of Proteasomes at the Gastrointestinal Barrier
Authors: Mohapatra Gayatree , Eisenberg-Lerner Avital , Merbl Yifat
Published: July 2021

The gut epithelial barrier provides the first line of defense protecting the internal milieu from the environment. To circumvent the exposure to constant challenges such as pathogenic infections and commensal bacteria, epithelial and immune cells at the gut barrier require rapid and efficient means to dynamically sense and respond to stimuli. Numerous studies have highlighted the importance of proteolysis in maintaining homeostasis and adapting to the dynamic changes of the conditions in the gut environment. Primarily, proteolytic activities that are involved in immune regulation and inflammation have been examined in the context of the lysosome and inflammasome activation. Yet, the key to cellular and tissue proteostasis is the ubiquitin–proteasome system, which tightly regulates fundamental aspects of inflammatory signaling and protein quality control to provide rapid responses and protect from the accumulation of proteotoxic damage. In this review, we discuss proteasome-dependent regulation of the gut and highlight the pathophysiological consequences of the disarray of proteasomal control in the gut, in the context of aberrant inflammatory disorders and tumorigenesis.
Social Interactions of Dat-Het Epi-Genotypes Differing for Maternal Origins: The Development of a New Preclinical Model of Socio-Sexual Apathy
Authors: Brancato Anna , Lo Russo Sara L. M. , Liberati Anna Sara , Carbone Cristiana , Zelli Silvia , Laviola Giovanni , Cannizzaro Carla , Adriani Walter
Published: July 2021

Social interaction is essential for life but is impaired in many psychiatric disorders. We presently focus on rats with a truncated allele for dopamine transporter (DAT). Since heterozygous individuals possess only one non-mutant allele, epigenetic interactions may unmask latent genetic predispositions. Homogeneous “maternal” heterozygous offspring (termed MAT-HET) were born from dopamine-transporter knocked-out (DAT-KO) male rats and wild-type (WT) mothers; “mixed” heterozygous offspring (termed MIX-HET) were born from both DAT-heterozygous parents. Their social behavior was assessed by: partner-preference (PPT), social-preference (SPT) and elicited-preference (EPT) tests. During the PPT, focal MIX-HET and MAT-HET males had a choice between two WT females, one in estrous and the other not. In the SPT, they met as stimulus either a MIX-HET or a WT male. In the EPT, the preference of focal male WT rats towards either a MIX- or a MAT-HET stimulus was tested. MIX-HET focal males showed an abnormal behavior, seeming not interested in socializing either with a female in estrous or with another male if MIX-HET. Focal MAT-HET males, instead, were very attracted by the female in estrous, but totally ignored the MIX-HET male. We assessed the expression of noradrenaline transporter (NET) in prefrontal cortex, hippocampus and hypothalamus, finding differences between the two offspring. MIX-HETs’ hypothalamus and hippocampus showed less NET than MAT-HETs, while the latter, in turn, showed higher NET than WTs. These behavioral differences between heterozygous groups may be attributed to different maternal cares received. Results allow preclinical understanding of epigenetic factors involved in social-behavior abnormalities, typical of many psychiatric disorders.
Hypoxia, Metabolic Reprogramming, and Drug Resistance in Liver Cancer
Authors: Bao Macus Hao-Ran , Wong Carmen Chak-Lui
Published: July 2021

Hypoxia, low oxygen (O2) level, is a hallmark of solid cancers, especially hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), one of the most common and fatal cancers worldwide. Hypoxia contributes to drug resistance in cancer through various molecular mechanisms. In this review, we particularly focus on the roles of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-mediated metabolic reprogramming in drug resistance in HCC. Combination therapies targeting hypoxia-induced metabolic enzymes to overcome drug resistance will also be summarized. Acquisition of drug resistance is the major cause of unsatisfactory clinical outcomes of existing HCC treatments. Extra efforts to identify novel mechanisms to combat refractory hypoxic HCC are warranted for the development of more effective treatment regimens for HCC patients.
Cardiac Fibrosis and Fibroblasts
Authors: Kurose Hitoshi
Published: July 2021

Cardiac fibrosis is the excess deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM), such as collagen. Myofibroblasts are major players in the production of collagen, and are differentiated primarily from resident fibroblasts. Collagen can compensate for the dead cells produced by injury. The appropriate production of collagen is beneficial for preserving the structural integrity of the heart, and protects the heart from cardiac rupture. However, excessive deposition of collagen causes cardiac dysfunction. Recent studies have demonstrated that myofibroblasts can change their phenotypes. In addition, myofibroblasts are found to have functions other than ECM production. Myofibroblasts have macrophage-like functions, in which they engulf dead cells and secrete anti-inflammatory cytokines. Research into fibroblasts has been delayed due to the lack of selective markers for the identification of fibroblasts. In recent years, it has become possible to genetically label fibroblasts and perform sequencing at single-cell levels. Based on new technologies, the origins of fibroblasts and myofibroblasts, time-dependent changes in fibroblast states after injury, and fibroblast heterogeneity have been demonstrated. In this paper, recent advances in fibroblast and myofibroblast research are reviewed.
The Effect of Au Nanoparticle Addition on Humidity Sensing with Ultra-Small TiO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Addabbo Tommaso , Cappelli Irene , Fort Ada , Mugnaini Marco , Panzardi Enza , Vignoli Valerio , Viti Cecilia
Published: July 2021

In this paper, we investigate humidity sensing through impedance measurements with TiO2 nanoparticles (about 6 nm in diameter). The transient behavior and the impedance spectra are measured and interpreted from the theoretical point of view. Large responses are shown especially in the relative humidity range from 30% to 80%, which are essentially explained by condensation in the nanopores. The effect of the addition of Au nanoparticles is investigated and as expected, the Au/TiO2 interfaces allow for dramatically reducing the sensing film response time and above all, its recovery time; moreover, it seems to favor condensation when the relative humidity overcomes 70%.
Reply to Bracke et al. Comment on “Prayag et al. Light Modulation of Human Clocks, Wake, and Sleep. Clocks&Sleep 2019, 1, 193–208”
Authors: Prayag Abhishek S. , Münch Mirjam , Aeschbach Daniel , Chellappa Sarah L. , Gronfier Claude
Published: July 2021

We thank Bracke and colleagues [...]
Bridges and Mediation in Higher Distance Education: HELMeTO 2020 Report
Authors: Agrati Laura Sara , Burgos Daniel , Ducange Pietro , Limone Pierpaolo , Pecori Riccardo , Perla Loredana , Picerno Pietro , Raviolo Paolo , Stracke Christian M.
Published: July 2021

In this paper, we report the scientific experience of HELMeTO 2020, the second edition of the International Workshop on Higher Education Learning Methodologies and Technologies Online, held virtually in Bari (Italy) in September 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The call received 59 proposals from nine countries, 39 papers were accepted to the virtual workshop and 26 full papers were finally selected to be published in the proceedings. The workshop illustrated a fast-developing scenario in which the epidemic emergency accelerated the dissemination and consolidation of online learning in higher education. A specific focus of the workshop can be identified as students’ learning experience, with studies on tutoring and active learning approaches, personalized solutions supported by data analysis, virtual reality and an in-depth analysis of human–computer interactions.
Impact of Authoritative and Laissez-Faire Leadership on Thriving at Work: The Moderating Role of Conscientiousness
Authors: Ahmed Iqbal Zulfiqar , Abid Ghulam , Arshad Muhammad , Ashfaq Fouzia , Athar Muhammad Ahsan , Hassan Qandeel
Published: July 2021

This study empirically investigates the less discussed catalytic effect of personality in the relationship of leadership style and employee thriving at work. The growth and sustainability of the organization is linked with the association of leadership style and employee thriving at the worplace. The objectives of this study are to explore the impact of authoritative and laissez-faire leadership styles and the moderating role of the personality trait of conscientiousness on thriving in the workplace. A sample of 312 participants was taken from a leading school system with its branches in Lahore and Islamabad, Pakistan. The participants either worked as managers, teachers in headquarters, or school campuses, respectively. The regression results of the study show that authoritative leadership and conscientiousness have a significantly positive impact on thriving at work. Furthermore, conscientiousness moderates the relationship between laissez-faire style of leadership and thriving at work relationship.. The findings of this study have theoretical implications for authoritative and laissez-faire leadership, employee conscientiousness, and managerial applications for the practitioners.
A Dual-Mode InGaP/GaAs HBT Power Amplifier Using a Low-Loss Parallel Power-Combining Transformer with IMD3 Cancellation Method
Authors: Oh Kyutaek , Ahn Hyunjin , Nam Ilku , Lee Hui Dong , Park Bonghyuk , Lee Ockgoo
Published: July 2021

A dual mode InGaP/GaAs heterojunction bipolar transistor (HBT) power amplifier (PA) using a parallel power-combining transformer (PCT) is presented herein. A low loss transformer is implemented on a printed circuit board (PCB) to improve the passive efficiency of a PCT. Dual-mode operation is applied to reduce the current consumption at a low power level. In the low-power (LP) mode, one of the individual amplifiers is turned off to reduce the current consumption. Additionally, a third-order intermodulation distortion (IMD3) cancellation method using a PCT combiner is proposed to improve linearity performance. Nonlinear IMD3 components from each amplifier cancel each other out through magnetic coupling in the secondary winding of the PCT. The implemented PA achieves a saturated output power of 33.8 dBm and a peak power-added efficiency (PAE) of 54.5% at 0.91 GHz with a 5-V power supply. An average output power of 25.2 dBm with an adjacent channel leakage ratio (ACLR) of −42 dBc is delivered when the PA is tested with an orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) 64-quadrature amplitude modulated (64-QAM) signal with a bandwidth of 10 MHz and peak-to-average power ratio (PAPR) of 7.8 dB. When compared with the high-power (HP) mode operation, the LP mode operation could save 48% of the current consumption at an average output power of 10.4 dBm.
Risk Assessment Method Combining Independent Protection Layers (IPL) of Layer of Protection Analysis (LOPA) and RISKCURVES Software: Case Study of Hydrogen Refueling Stations in Urban Areas
Authors: Park Byoungjik , Kim Yangkyun , Lee Kwanwoo , Paik Shinwon , Kang Chankyu
Published: July 2021

The commercialization of eco-friendly hydrogen vehicles has elicited attempts to expand hydrogen refueling stations in urban areas; however, safety measures to reduce the risk of jet fires have not been established. The RISKCURVES software was used to evaluate the individual and societal risks of hydrogen refueling stations in urban areas, and the F–N (Frequency–Number of fatalities) curve was used to compare whether the safety measures satisfied international standards. From the results of the analysis, it was found that there is a risk of explosion in the expansion of hydrogen refueling stations in urban areas, and safety measures should be considered. To lower the risk of hydrogen refueling stations, this study applied the passive and active independent protection layers (IPLs) of LOPA (Layer of Protection Analysis) and confirmed that these measures significantly reduced societal risk as well as individual risk and met international standards. In particular, such measures could effectively reduce the impact of jet fire in dispensers and tube trailers that had a high risk. Measures employing both IPL types were efficient in meeting international standard criteria; however, passive IPLs were found to have a greater risk reduction effect than active IPLs. The combination of RISKCURVES and LOPA is an appropriate risk assessment method that can reduce work time and mitigate risks through protective measures compared to existing risk assessment methods. This method can be applied to risk assessment and risk mitigation not only for hydrogen facilities, but also for hazardous materials with high fire or explosion risk.
Production of Gasolines and Monocyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons: From Fossil Raw Materials to Green Processes
Authors: Busca Guido
Published: July 2021

The properties and the applications of the main monocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, styrene, and the three xylene isomers) and the industrial processes for their manufacture from fossil raw materials are summarized. Potential ways for their production from renewable sources with thermo-catalytic processes are described and discussed in detail. The perspectives of the future industrial organic chemistry in relation to the production of high-octane bio-gasolines and monocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons as renewable chemical intermediates are discussed.
Circular Economy and Virtual Reality in Advanced BIM-Based Prefabricated Construction
Authors: O’Grady Timothy M. , Brajkovich Nicholas , Minunno Roberto , Chong Heap-Yih , Morrison Gregory M.
Published: July 2021

This paper presents a new virtual reality (VR)-based approach to advanced learnings and experiences of the circular economy (CE) in the construction industry. The approach involves incorporating game design and a building information modelling (BIM) digital twin of a purposed CE prototype building. Our novel approach introduces VR environments designed to provide a visual representation of materials and components that can be reintroduced into the supply chain at the end of life and their removal procedures and material provenance. A case study methodology was applied to a purposely designed CE building, namely the Legacy Living Lab (L3). To reflect the real-life building, L3’s BIM model was combined with Unify game software to advance the literature in three key areas. First, the research investigates VR tools that will allow building designers to view and implement their strategies to advance CE design. Second, this research proposes an advanced VR tool to visualise the bill of quantities (BoQ) and material stock embedded in the studied building, further understanding concepts such as buildings as material banks. Finally, the proposed VR environment defines CE techniques implemented within the case study to be disseminated across the vast construction industry. This VR research identifies three key pillars in reducing the waste generated by the construction industry: education, documentation and visualisation. Furthermore, this paper provides a visual link between the BIM, BoQ and resiliency of the selected materials.
Balancing Health, Economy and Climate Risk in a Multi-Crisis
Authors: Nathwani Jatin , Lind Niels , Renn Ortwin , Schellnhuber Hans Joachim
Published: July 2021

In the presence of a global pandemic (COVID-19), the relentless pressure on global decision-makers is to ensure a balancing of health (reduce mortality impacts), economic goals (income for livelihood sustenance), and environmental sustainability (stabilize GHG emissions long term). The global energy supply system is a dominant contributor to the GHG burden and deeply embedded in the economy with its current share of 85%, use of fossil fuels has remained unchanged over 3 decades. A unique approach is presented to harmonizing the goals of human safety, economic development, and climate risk, respectively, through an operational tool that provides clear guidance to decision-makers in support of policy interventions for decarbonization. Improving climate change performance as an integral part of meeting human development goals allows the achievement of a country’s environmental, social, and economic well-being to be tracked and monitored. A primary contribution of this paper is to allow a transparent accounting of national performance highlighting the goals of enhancing human safety in concert with mitigation of climate risks. A measure of a country’s overall performance, combined as the Development and Climate Change Performance Index (DCI), is derived from two standardized indexes, the development index H and the Climate Change Performance Index CCPI. Data are analyzed for 55 countries comprising 65 percent of the world’s population. Through active management and monitoring, the proposed DCI can illustrate national performance to highlight a country’s current standing, rates of improvement over time, and a historical profile of progress of nations by bringing climate risk mitigation and economic well-being into better alignment.
Spectroscopic Identification on CO2 Separation from CH4 + CO2 Gas Mixtures Using Hydroquinone Clathrate Formation
Authors: Yoon Ji-Ho , Lee Dongwon , Lee Jong-Won
Published: July 2021

The formation of hydroquinone (HQ) clathrate and the guest behaviors of binary (CH4 + CO2) gas mixtures were investigated by focusing on an application to separate CO2 from landfill gases. Spectroscopic measurements show that at two experimental pressures of 20 and 40 bar, CO2 molecules are preferentially captured in HQ clathrates regardless of the gas composition. In addition, preferential occupation by CO2 is observed more significantly when the formation pressure and the CH4 concentration are lower. Because the preferential occupation of CO2 is found with binary (CH4 + CO2) gas mixtures regardless of the composition of the feed gas, a clathrate-based process can be applied to CO2 separation or concentration from landfill gases or (CH4 + CO2) mixed gases.
Mathematical Modelling of a System for Solar PV Efficiency Improvement Using Compressed Air for Panel Cleaning and Cooling
Authors: King Marcus , Li Dacheng , Dooner Mark , Ghosh Saikat , Roy Jatindra Nath , Chakraborty Chandan , Wang Jihong
Published: July 2021

The efficiency of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels is greatly reduced by panel soiling and high temperatures. A mechanism for eliminating both of these sources of inefficiencies is presented by integrating solar PV generation with a compressed air system. High-pressure air can be stored and used to blow over the surface of PV panels, removing present dust and cooling the panels, increasing output power. A full-system mathematical model of the proposed system is presented, comprised of compressed air generation and storage, panel temperature, panel cleaning, and PV power generation. Simulation results indicate the benefit of employing compressed air for cleaning and cooling solar PV panels. For a fixed volume of compressed air, it is advantageous to blow air over the panels early in the day if the panel is soiled or when solar radiation is most abundant with the highest achievable flow rate if the panel is clean. These strategies have been shown to achieve the greatest energy captures for a single PV panel. When comparing the energy for air compression to the energy gain from cleaning a single PV over a two-week period, an energy ROI of 23.8 is determined. The system has the potential to eliminate the requirement for additional manual cleaning of solar PV panels.
Qualitative Characterization of the Pellet Obtained from Hazelnut and Olive Tree Pruning
Authors: Acampora Andrea , Civitarese Vincenzo , Sperandio Giulio , Rezaei Negar
Published: July 2021

Biomass occupies a very important place among renewable energy sources, and the residual biomass recovery chain represents a sector of fundamental importance. Our work focused on the production of pellets by pruning residues from two of the most important woody crops in Italy: hazelnut and olive groves. We found a higher value of bulk density for the hazelnut pellet (581.30 kg m−3 vs. 562.38 kg m−3) and a higher value of length for the olive pellet (16.66 mm vs. 10.47 mm). The percentages of durability were very similar (98%). The low heating value and ash content of hazelnut and olive were 17.21 MJ kg−1 and 3.1%, and 16.83 MJ kg−1 and 2.5%. A higher concentration of Cu, Pb, and Ni was observed in the hazelnut. The contrary was observed for the concentration of Zn. N content was 0.77% and 1.24% for the hazelnut and the olive, respectively. The concentration of S was 0.00% for both. The quality parameters that do not meet current standards could be improved by mixing these materials with different types of wood.
The Impact Assessment of Climate Change on Building Energy Consumption in Poland
Authors: Bazazzadeh Hassan , Pilechiha Peiman , Nadolny Adam , Mahdavinejad Mohammadjavad , Hashemi safaei Seyedeh sara
Published: July 2021

A substantial share of the building sector in global energy demand has attracted scholars to focus on the energy efficiency of the building sector. The building’s energy consumption has been projected to increase due to mass urbanization, high living comfort standards, and, more importantly, climate change. While climate change has potential impacts on the rate of energy consumption in buildings, several studies have shown that these impacts differ from one region to another. In response, this paper aimed to investigate the impact of climate change on the heating and cooling energy demands of buildings as influential variables in building energy consumption in the city of Poznan, Poland. In this sense, through the statistical downscaling method and considering the most recent Typical Meteorological Year (2004–2018) as the baseline, the future weather data for 2050 and 2080 of the city of Poznan were produced according to the HadCM3 and A2 GHG scenario. These generated files were then used to simulate the energy demands in 16 building prototypes of the ASHRAE 90.1 standard. The results indicate an average increase in cooling load and a decrease in heating load at 135% and 40%, respectively, by 2080. Due to the higher share of heating load, the total thermal load of the buildings decreased within the study period. Therefore, while the total thermal load is currently under the decrease, to avoid its rise in the future, serious measures should be taken to control the increased cooling demand and, consequently, thermal load and GHG emissions.