bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characteristics of Clinical Symptoms, Cerebral Images and Stroke Etiology in Vertebro-Basilar Artery Fenestration-Related Infarction
Authors: Miyamoto Nobukazu , Ueno Yuji , Hira Kenichiro , Kijima Chikage , Nakajima Sho , Yamashiro Kazuo , Hattori Nobutaka
Published: April 2020

Cerebral artery fenestration is a rare variant of the vascular architecture, but its existence is well documented. The common site of fenestration is the vertebra-basilar artery and it may be found incidentally with subarachnoid hemorrhage. However, fenestration-related cerebral infarction is rare. We analyzed the clinical characteristics, stroke etiology, and image findings of fenestration-related cerebral infarction of the vertebrobasilar artery. We reviewed our hospital records and previously published reports to find cases of fenestration-related cerebral infarction. We excluded those with unknown clinical features or radiological findings. We retrieved 4 cases of fenestration-related infarction from our hospital, in which vascular change, headache, vertigo/dizziness, and dissection in stroke etiology were detected. In eight previously reported cases of fenestration-related infarction, similar vascular changes were noted, but they were mainly diagnosed as embolic stroke of undetermined source. However, based on the criteria for dissection in this study, dissection as the stroke etiology was suspected in the previously reported cases. Many hypotheses have been proposed for the development of dissection, thrombus, and aneurysms in fenestration. Although an embryological and morphological study is needed, clinicians must consider basilar artery fenestration-related infarction as a differential diagnosis and intensive non-invasive image study is recommended.
Ex Vivo Assessment of Tumor-Targeting Fluorescent Tracers for Image-Guided Surgery
Authors: Elekonawo Fortuné M.K. , de Gooyer Jan Marie , Bos Desirée L. , Goldenberg David M. , Boerman Otto C. , Brosens Lodewijk A.A. , Bremers Andreas J.A. , de Wilt Johannes H.W. , Rijpkema Mark
Published: April 2020

Image-guided surgery can aid in achieving complete tumor resection. The development and assessment of tumor-targeted imaging probes for near-infrared fluorescence image-guided surgery relies mainly on preclinical models, but the translation to clinical use remains challenging. In the current study, we introduce and evaluate the application of a dual-labelled tumor-targeting antibody for ex vivo incubation of freshly resected human tumor specimens and assessed the tumor-to-adjacent tissue ratio of the detectable signals. Immediately after surgical resection, peritoneal tumors of colorectal origin were placed in cold medium. Subsequently, tumors were incubated with 111In-DOTA-hMN-14-IRDye800CW, an anti-carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) antibody with a fluorescent and radioactive label. Tumors were then washed, fixed, and analyzed for the presence and location of tumor cells, CEA expression, fluorescence, and radioactivity. Twenty-six of 29 tumor samples obtained from 10 patients contained malignant cells. Overall, fluorescence intensity was higher in tumor areas compared to adjacent non-tumor tissue parts (p < 0.001). The average fluorescence tumor-to-background ratio was 11.8 ± 9.1:1. A similar ratio was found in the autoradiographic analyses. Incubation with a non-specific control antibody confirmed that tumor targeting of our tracer was CEA-specific. Our results demonstrate the feasibility of this tracer for multimodal image-guided surgery. Furthermore, this ex vivo incubation method may help to bridge the gap between preclinical research and clinical application of new agents for radioactive, near infrared fluorescence or multimodal imaging studies.
Comprehensive Map of the Regulated Cell Death Signaling Network: A Powerful Analytical Tool for Studying Diseases
Authors: Ravel Jean-Marie , Monraz Gomez L. Cristobal , Sompairac Nicolas , Calzone Laurence , Zhivotovsky Boris , Kroemer Guido , Barillot Emmanuel , Zinovyev Andrei , Kuperstein Inna
Published: April 2020

The processes leading to, or avoiding cell death are widely studied, because of their frequent perturbation in various diseases. Cell death occurs in three highly interconnected steps: Initiation, signaling and execution. We used a systems biology approach to gather information about all known modes of regulated cell death (RCD). Based on the experimental data retrieved from literature by manual curation, we graphically depicted the biological processes involved in RCD in the form of a seamless comprehensive signaling network map. The molecular mechanisms of each RCD mode are represented in detail. The RCD network map is divided into 26 functional modules that can be visualized contextually in the whole seamless network, as well as in individual diagrams. The resource is freely available and accessible via several web platforms for map navigation, data integration, and analysis. The RCD network map was employed for interpreting the functional differences in cell death regulation between Alzheimer’s disease and non-small cell lung cancer based on gene expression data that allowed emphasizing the molecular mechanisms underlying the inverse comorbidity between the two pathologies. In addition, the map was used for the analysis of genomic and transcriptomic data from ovarian cancer patients that provided RCD map-based signatures of four distinct tumor subtypes and highlighted the difference in regulations of cell death molecular mechanisms.
Discovery of Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma Biomarkers by Untargeted Metabolomics
Authors: Martín-Blázquez Ariadna , Jiménez-Luna Cristina , Díaz Caridad , Martínez-Galán Joaquina , Prados Jose , Vicente Francisca , Melguizo Consolación , Genilloud Olga , Pérez del Palacio José , Caba Octavio
Published: April 2020

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most aggressive and lethal cancers, with a 5-year survival rate of less than 5%. In fact, complete surgical resection remains the only curative treatment. However, fewer than 20% of patients are candidates for surgery at the time of presentation. Hence, there is a critical need to identify diagnostic biomarkers with potential clinical utility in this pathology. In this context, metabolomics could be a powerful tool to search for new robust biomarkers. Comparative metabolomic profiling was performed in serum samples from 59 unresectable PDAC patients and 60 healthy controls. Samples were analyzed by using an untargeted metabolomics workflow based on liquid chromatography, coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry in positive and negative electrospray ionization modes. Univariate and multivariate analysis allowed the identification of potential candidates that were significantly altered in PDAC patients. A panel of nine candidates yielded excellent diagnostic capacities. Pathway analysis revealed four altered pathways in our patients. This study shows the potential of liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry as a diagnostic tool for PDAC. Furthermore, it identified novel robust biomarkers with excellent diagnostic capacities.
The Emerging Role of MicroRNAs and Other Non-Coding RNAs in Cancer Cachexia
Authors: Santos Joana M. O. , Peixoto da Silva Sara , Gil da Costa Rui M. , Medeiros Rui
Published: April 2020

Cancer cachexia or wasting is a paraneoplastic syndrome characterized by systemic inflammation and an involuntary loss of body mass that cannot be reversed by normal nutritional support. This syndrome affects 50%–80% of cancer patients, depending on the tumor type and patient characteristics, and it is responsible for up to 20% of cancer deaths. MicroRNAs are a class of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) with 19 to 24 nucleotides in length of which the function is to regulate gene expression. In the last years, microRNAs and other ncRNAs have been demonstrated to have a crucial role in the pathogenesis of several diseases and clinical potential. Recently, ncRNAs have begun to be associated with cancer cachexia by modulating essential functions like the turnover of skeletal muscle and adipose tissue. Additionally, circulating microRNAs have been suggested as potential biomarkers for patients at risk of developing cancer cachexia. In this review article, we present recent data concerning the role of microRNAs and other ncRNAs in cancer cachexia pathogenesis and their possible clinical relevance.
Personalized Medicine: Recent Progress in Cancer Therapy
Authors: Gambardella Valentina , Tarazona Noelia , Cejalvo Juan Miguel , Lombardi Pasquale , Huerta Marisol , Roselló Susana , Fleitas Tania , Roda Desamparados , Cervantes Andres
Published: April 2020

Translational research has revolutionized how we develop new treatments for cancer patients. The change from an organ-centric concept guiding treatment choice towards deep molecular analysis, driving a personalized approach, is one of the most important advances of modern oncology. Several tools such as next generation sequencing and RNA sequencing have greatly improved the capacity to detect predictive and prognostic molecular alterations. Detection of gene mutations, amplifications, and fusions has therefore altered the history of several diseases in both a localized and metastatic setting. This shift in perspective, in which attention is focused on the specific molecular alterations of the tumor, has opened the door to personalized treatment. This situation is reflected in the increasing number of basket trials selecting specific molecular targets. Nonetheless, some weaknesses need to be addressed. The complexity of cancer cells enriched with concomitant molecular alterations complicates identification of the driver. Moreover, tumor heterogeneity could be responsible for the lack of benefit when targeted agents are used. In light of this, there is growing interest in the role of multidisciplinary committees or molecular tumor boards to try to enhance selection. The aim of this review is to critically analyze the evolution of cancer treatment towards a precision approach, underlining some recent successes and unexpected failures.
Cardiotoxicity and Heart Failure: Lessons from Human-Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Cardiomyocytes and Anticancer Drugs
Authors: Sachinidis Agapios
Published: April 2020

Human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) are discussed as disease modeling for optimization and adaptation of therapy to each individual. However, the fundamental question is still under debate whether stem-cell-based disease modeling and drug discovery are applicable for recapitulating pathological processes under in vivo conditions. Drug treatment and exposure to different chemicals and environmental factors can initiate diseases due to toxicity effects in humans. It is well documented that drug-induced cardiotoxicity accelerates the development of heart failure (HF). Until now, investigations on the understanding of mechanisms involved in HF by anticancer drugs are hindered by limitations of the available cellular models which are relevant for human physiology and by the fact that the clinical manifestation of HF often occurs several years after its initiation. Recently, we identified similar genomic biomarkers as observed by HF after short treatment of hiPSCs-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) with different antitumor drugs such as anthracyclines and etoposide (ETP). Moreover, we identified common cardiotoxic biological processes and signal transduction pathways which are discussed as being crucial for the survival and function of cardiomyocytes and, therefore, for the development of HF. In the present review, I discuss the applicability of the in vitro cardiotoxicity test systems as modeling for discovering preventive mechanisms/targets against cardiotoxicity and, therefore, for novel HF therapeutic concepts.
MiR193a Modulation and Podocyte Phenotype
Authors: Jha Alok , Saha Shourav , Ayasolla Kamesh , Vashistha Himanshu , Malhotra Ashwani , Skorecki Karl , Singhal Pravin C.
Published: April 2020

Apolipoprotein L1 (APOL1)-miR193a axis has been reported to play a role in the maintenance of podocyte homeostasis. In the present study, we analyzed transcription factors relevant to miR193a in human podocytes and their effects on podocytes’ molecular phenotype. The motif scan of the miR193a gene provided information about transcription factors, including YY1, WT1, Sox2, and VDR-RXR heterodimer, which could potentially bind to the miR193a promoter region to regulate miR193a expression. All structure models of these transcription factors and the tertiary structures of the miR193a promoter region were generated and refined using computational tools. The DNA-protein complexes of the miR193a promoter region and transcription factors were created using a docking approach. To determine the modulatory role of miR193a on APOL1 mRNA, the structural components of APOL1 3’ UTR and miR193a-5p were studied. Molecular Dynamic (MD) simulations validated interactions between miR193a and YY1/WT1/Sox2/VDR/APOL1 3′ UTR region. Undifferentiated podocytes (UPDs) displayed enhanced miR193a, YY1, and Sox2 but attenuated WT1, VDR, and APOL1 expressions, whereas differentiated podocytes (DPDs) exhibited attenuated miR193a, YY1, and Sox2 but increased WT1, VDR, APOL1 expressions. Inhibition of miR193a in UPDs enhanced the expression of APOL1 as well as of podocyte molecular markers; on the other hand, DPD-transfected with miR193a plasmid showed downing of APOL1 as well as podocyte molecular markers suggesting a causal relationship between miR193a and podocyte molecular markers. Silencing of YY1 and Sox2 in UPDs decreased the expression of miR193a but increased the expression of VDR, and CD2AP (a marker of DPDs); in contrast, silencing of WT1 and VDR in DPDs enhanced the expression of miR193a, YY1, and Sox2. Since miR193a-downing by Vitamin D receptor (VDR) agonist not only enhanced the mRNA expression of APOL1 but also of podocyte differentiating markers, suggest that down-regulation of miR193a could be used to enhance the expression of podocyte differentiating markers as a therapeutic strategy.
Noninvasive Diagnosis of NAFLD and NASH
Authors: Piazzolla Valeria Annarita , Mangia Alessandra
Published: April 2020

The aim of this review is to outline emerging biomarkers that can serve as early diagnostic tools to identify patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and, among them, the subgroup of best candidates for clinical trials on emerging compounds. Regarding possible predictors of NAFLD, a number of studies evaluated a combination of serum biomarkers either available in routine practice (or investigational) or proprietary and expensive. So far, magnetic resonance imaging-derived proton density fat fraction (MRI-PDFF) appears to be the most accurate for fatty liver diagnosis. In clinical practice, the main question is how to diagnose NASH early. There are new promising biomarkers that can help in diagnosing early stages of NASH, yet they include variables not routinely tested. In the setting of NASH, most studies confirm that, in spite of several well-known limitations, transient elastography or point shear wave elastography can help in enriching the pool of patients that should be screened for investigational treatments. Newer multiomics biomarkers including those focusing on microbiota can be useful but require methods to be standardized and implemented. To date, one biomarker alone is not able to non- or minimally invasively identify patients with NASH and mild to moderate fibrosis.
Phages and Their Role in Gastrointestinal Disease: Focus on Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Maronek Martin , Link Rene , Ambro Lubos , Gardlik Roman
Published: April 2020

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are a group of chronic autoinflammatory diseases including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Although the molecular mechanisms governing the pathogenesis of gastrointestinal inflammation are not completely clear, the main factors are presumed to be genetic predisposition, environmental exposure, and the intestinal microbiome. Hitherto, most of the studies focusing on the role of the microbiome studied the action and effect of bacteria. However, the intestinal microbiome comprises other members of the microbial community as well, namely, fungi, protozoa, and viruses. We believe that bacteriophages are among the main orchestrators of the effect of microbiota on the gut mucosa. Therefore, this review aims to summarize the knowledge of the role of intestinal phageome in IBD and to discuss the concept of phage therapy and its future applications.
Characterising the Transcriptional and Translational Impact of the Schizophrenia-Associated miR-1271-5p in Neuronal Cells
Authors: Kiltschewskij Dylan J. , Geaghan Michael P. , Cairns Murray J.
Published: April 2020

MicroRNA (miRNA) coordinate complex gene expression networks in cells that are vital to support highly specialised morphology and cytoarchitecture. Neurons express a rich array of miRNA, including many that are specific or enriched, which have important functions in this context and implications for neurological conditions. While the neurological function of a number of brain-derived miRNAs have been examined thoroughly, the mechanistic basis of many remain obscure. In this case, we investigated the transcriptome-wide impact of schizophrenia-associated miR-1271-5p in response to bidirectional modulation. Alteration of miR-1271-5p induced considerable changes to mRNA abundance and translation, which spanned a diverse range of cellular functions, including directly targeted genes strongly associated with cytoskeletal dynamics and cellular junctions. Mechanistic analyses additionally revealed that upregulation of miR-1271-5p predominantly repressed mRNAs through destabilisation, wherein 3′UTR and coding sequence binding sites exhibited similar efficacy. Knockdown, however, produced no discernible trend in target gene expression and strikingly resulted in increased expression of the highly conserved miR-96-5p, which shares an identical seed region with miR-1271-5p, suggesting the presence of feedback mechanisms that sense disruptions to miRNA levels. These findings indicate that, while bidirectional regulation of miR-1271-5p results in substantial remodeling of the neuronal transcriptome, these effects are not inverse in nature. In addition, we provide further support for the idea that destabilisation of mRNA is the predominant mechanism by which miRNAs regulate complementary mRNAs.
Iron Oxide Nanoparticle-Induced Autophagic Flux Is Regulated by Interplay between p53-mTOR Axis and Bcl-2 Signaling in Hepatic Cells
Authors: Uzhytchak Mariia , Smolková Barbora , Lunova Mariia , Jirsa Milan , Frtús Adam , Kubinová Šárka , Dejneka Alexandr , Lunov Oleg
Published: April 2020

Iron oxide-based nanoparticles have been repeatedly shown to affect lysosomal-mediated signaling. Recently, nanoparticles have demonstrated an ability to modulate autophagic flux via lysosome-dependent signaling. However, the precise underlying mechanisms of such modulation as well as the impact of cellular genetic background remain enigmatic. In this study, we investigated how lysosomal-mediated signaling is affected by iron oxide nanoparticle uptake in three distinct hepatic cell lines. We found that nanoparticle-induced lysosomal dysfunction alters sub-cellular localization of pmTOR and p53 proteins. Our data indicate that alterations in the sub-cellular localization of p53 protein induced by nanoparticle greatly affect the autophagic flux. We found that cells with high levels of Bcl-2 are insensitive to autophagy initiated by nanoparticles. Altogether, our data identify lysosomes as a central hub that control nanoparticle-mediated responses in hepatic cells. Our results provide an important fundamental background for the future development of targeted nanoparticle-based therapies.
Mechanical Properties and Electrical Discharge Machinability of Alumina-10 vol% Zirconia-28 vol% Titanium Nitride Composites
Authors: Gommeringer Andrea , Kern Frank
Published: April 2020

Electrical discharge machinable ceramics provide an alternative machining route independent on the material hardness which enables manufacturing of customized ceramic components. In this study a composite material based on an alumina/zirconia matrix and an electrically conductive titanium nitride dispersion was manufactured by hot pressing and characterized with respect to microstructure, mechanical properties and ED-machinability by die sinking. The composites show a combination of high strength of 700 MPa, hardness of 17–18 GPa and moderate fracture resistance of 4.5–5 MPa√m. With 40 kS/m the electrical conductivity is sufficiently high to ensure ED-machinability.
Before Radicals Were Free – the Radical Particulier of de Morveau
Authors: Constable Edwin C. , Housecroft Catherine E.
Published: April 2020

Today, we universally understand radicals to be chemical species with an unpaired electron. It was not always so, and this article traces the evolution of the term radical and in this journey, monitors the development of some of the great theories of organic chemistry.
Interfacial Properties and Emulsification of Biocompatible Liquid-Liquid Systems
Authors: Dziza Katarzyna , Santini Eva , Liggieri Libero , Jarek Ewelina , Krzan Marcel , Fischer Thilo , Ravera Francesca
Published: April 2020

A comparative study is reported on the interfacial properties of a set of surfactants and is discussed in terms of the effects on the features of the corresponding oil-water emulsions. The surfactants are saponin, Tween 80 and citronellol glucoside (CG), while the oil is Miglyol 812N—A Medium Chain Triglyceride (MCT) oil. Due to their high biocompatibility, all these compounds are variously utilized in food, cosmetic or pharmaceutical products. Among the surfactants, which are all soluble in water, CG presents also an important solubility in oil, as shown by the measured partition coefficient. For these systems, dynamic and equilibrium interfacial tensions and dilational viscoelasticity are measured as a function of the surfactant concentration and analyzed according to available adsorption models. In order to compare these results with the time evolution of the corresponding emulsions, the actual surfactant concentration in the matrix phase of the emulsion is accounted for. This may differ significantly from the nominal concentration of the solutions before dispersing them, because of the huge area of droplets available for surfactant adsorption in the emulsion. Using this approach allows the derivation of the correlations between the observed emulsion behavior and the actual surfactant coverage of the droplet interface.
Preparation of Highly Transparent (at 450–800 nm) SnO2 Homojunction by Solution Method and Its Photoresponse
Authors: Ye Qiannan , Zhang Xu , Guo Dong , Xu Wei , Ning Honglong , Qiu Tian , Li Jinxiong , Hou Danqing , Yao Rihui , Peng Junbiao
Published: April 2020

High-quality SnO2:Si films and SnO2:10 at.% Ga films were prepared by the solution method. The roughness of films is below 1.08 nm, and possess exceptional transparency (>75%) and decent semiconductor properties. Based on this, the SnO2:Si/SnO2: Ga homojunctions with different Si doping concentrations were prepared. It is found that the conductivity of the SnO2:Si thin film gradually increases, and the rectification characteristics of the homojunction are optimized with increasing Si doping content. The SnO2:15 at.% Si/SnO2:10 at.% Ga homogeneous junction has the best performance, the turn-on voltage is as low as 5.6 V, and it also exhibits good unidirectional conductivity. The photoresponse of the SnO2:15 at.% Si/SnO2:10 at.% Ga homojunction under the lights of red, yellow, and purple was explored respectively. The result shows that the device responds strongly to purple light. Compared with the test results in the dark environment, the device current increases by two orders, which is expected to be applied in the field of near-ultraviolet detection.
Analysis of Machinability and Crack Occurrence of Steels 1.2363 and 1.2343ESR Machined by Die-Sinking EDM
Authors: Mouralova Katerina , Benes Libor , Bednar Josef , Zahradnicek Radim , Prokes Tomas , Fries Jiří
Published: April 2020

Die-sinking electric discharge machining (EDM) is an indispensable technological operation, especially in the production of molds and all internal and external shapes and cavities. For this reason, the effect of machine parameter settings (open-voltage, pulse current, pulse on time, and pulse off time) on the machining of two types of steels, 1.2363 and 1.2343ESR, was carefully investigated using graphite or copper electrodes in 10 mm × 10 mm or 100 mm × 100 mm shapes. For this purpose, a two-level half factor experiment was performed with one replication at the corner points and two replications at the central points, with a total of 80 rounds. The subject of the evaluation was the topography and morphology of machined surfaces including a detailed analysis of surface and subsurface defects in the form of cracks including the creation of regression equations describing the probability of crack occurrence. Furthermore, a study of the local hardness change in the subsurface area was performed, and lamellas were also made and studied by transmission electron microscopy. It has been found that by using die-sinking EDM, it is possible to effectively predict the probability of cracking on machined surfaces and also on machine 1.2363 and 1.2343ESR steels with a very good surface quality of Ra 1.9 and 2.1 µm using graphite electrodes. These findings will ensure the production of parts with the required surface quality without cracks, which is a crucial aspect for maintaining the required functionality and service life of the parts.
Construction of Rutile-TiO2 Nanoarray Homojuction for Non-Contact Sensing of TATP under Natural Light
Authors: Tang Yan , Zhang Yuxiang , Xie Guanshun , Zheng Youxiong , Yu Jianwei , Gao Li , Liu Bingxin
Published: April 2020

Triacetone triperoxide (TATP) is a new terrorist explosive, and most nitrogen-based sensors fail to detect TATP. Herein, a sea urchin-like TiO2-covered TiO2 nanoarray is constructed as a TATP-sensitive homojunction (HJ) by one step hydrothermal method. By taking fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) and indium tin oxide (ITO) conducting glass as the substrate, the conducting glass is horizontally and vertically put in the reactor to epitaxially grow TiO2–FTO, TiO2–ITO, TiO2–FTO–HJ and TiO2–ITO–HJ. TiO2–FTO–HJ shows a broad absorption band edge in the visible region and high sensitivity to TATP under the simulating natural light compared with TiO2–FTO, TiO2–ITO, and TiO2–ITO–HJ. E-field intensity distribution simulation reveals that constructing homojunctions between the urchin-shaped TiO2 nanosphere and TiO2 nanoarrays can enhance the localized electromagnetic field intensity at the interface of junctions, which may provide photocatalysis active sites to reduce TATP molecules by promoting charge separation. Moreover, the TiO2–FTO–HJ shows high selectivity to TATP among ammonium nitrate, urea and sulfur, which are common homemade explosive raw materials.
Role of the Counterions in the Surface Tension of Aqueous Surfactant Solutions. A Computer Simulation Study of Alkali Dodecyl Sulfate Systems
Authors: Hantal György , Sega Marcello , Horvai George , Jedlovszky Pál
Published: April 2020

We have investigated the surface tension contributions of the counterions, surfactant headgroups and tails, and water molecules in aqueous alkali dodecyl sulfate (DS) solutions close to the saturated surface concentration by analyzing the lateral pressure profile contribution of these components using molecular dynamics simulations. For this purpose, we have used the combination of two popular force fields, namely KBFF for the counterions and GROMOS96 for the surfactant, which are both parameterized for the SPC/E water model. Except for the system containing Na+ counterions, the surface tension of the surfactant solutions has turned out to be larger rather than smaller than that of neat water, showing a severe shortcoming of the combination of the two force fields. We have traced back this failure of the potential model combination to the unphysically strong attraction of the KBFF counterions, except for Na+, to the anionic head of the surfactants. Despite this failure of the model, we have observed a clear relation between the soft/hard character (in the sense of the Hofmeister series) and the surface tension contribution of the counterions, which, given the above limitations of the model, can only be regarded as an indicative result. We emphasize that the obtained results, although in a twisted way, clearly stress the crucial role the counterions of ionic surfactants play in determining the surface tension of the aqueous surfactant solutions.
Revised Calculation of Kalinowski’s Ancestral and New Inbreeding Coefficients
Authors: Doekes Harmen P. , Curik Ino , Nagy István , Farkas János , Kövér György , Windig Jack J.
Published: April 2020

To test for the presence of purging in populations, the classical pedigree-based inbreeding coefficient (F) can be decomposed into Kalinowski’s ancestral (FANC) and new (FNEW) inbreeding coefficients. The FANC and FNEW can be calculated by a stochastic approach known as gene dropping. However, the only publicly available algorithm for the calculation of FANC and FNEW, implemented in GRain v 2.1 (and also incorporated in the PEDIG software package), has produced biased estimates. The FANC was systematically underestimated and consequently, FNEW was overestimated. To illustrate this bias, we calculated FANC and FNEW by hand for simple example pedigrees. We revised the GRain program so that it now provides unbiased estimates. Correlations between the biased and unbiased estimates of FANC and FNEW, obtained for example data sets of Hungarian Pannon White rabbits (22,781 individuals) and Dutch Holstein Friesian cattle (37,061 individuals), were high, i.e., >0.96. Although the magnitude of bias appeared to be small, results from studies based on biased estimates should be interpreted with caution. The revised GRain program (v 2.2) is now available online and can be used to calculate unbiased estimates of FANC and FNEW.
Patterns of Distribution of Bivalve Populations in a Mediterranean Temporary River
Authors: Gama Mafalda , Banha Filipe , Moreira Cristina , Gama Henrique , Graça Manuel , Anastácio Pedro
Published: April 2020

In the south of the Iberian Peninsula, many rivers are intermittent, a state most likely to be exacerbated by climate change, strongly affecting river biota. An additional challenge for native biota in this area is the arrival of new species, frequently aided by humans, and bivalves are particularly at risk. Here we assessed whether the native (Unio delphinus) and invasive (Corbicula fluminea) bivalves differed in habitat use. To address this question, we sampled populations of both species in six isolated permanent pools in the same river during summer in three consecutive years. U. delphinus occurred in all pools, while C. fluminea occurred only in the two most downstream pools. U. delphinus, but not C. fluminea, was found preferentially in patches under riparian vegetation cover. Both species were found in similar sediment types (coarse and fine gravel respectively). Although U. delphinus was present in all pools, recruitment was detected only in 2016, in one pool. We concluded that both species have the potential to compete for space, but a well-developed riparian vegetation cover may provide U. delphinus some advantage against C. fluminea.
Fungi and Oomycetes in the Irrigation Water of Forest Nurseries
Authors: Marčiulynas Adas , Marčiulynienė Diana , Lynikienė Jūratė , Gedminas Artūras , Vaičiukynė Miglė , Menkis Audrius
Published: April 2020

The aim of the present study was to assess fungal and oomycete communities in the irrigation water of forest nurseries, focusing on plant pathogens in the hope of getting a better understanding of potential pathogenic microorganisms and spreading routes in forest nurseries. The study sites were at Anykščiai, Dubrava, Kretinga and Trakai state forest nurseries in Lithuania. For the collection of microbial samples, at each nursery five 100-L water samples were collected from the irrigation ponds and filtered. Following DNA isolation from the irrigation water filtrate samples, these were individually amplified using ITS rDNA as a marker and subjected to PacBio high-throughput sequencing. Clustering in the SCATA pipeline and the taxonomic classification of 24,006 high-quality reads showed the presence of 1286 non-singleton taxa. Among those, 895 were representing fungi and oomycetes. The detected fungi were 57.3% Ascomycota, 38.1% Basidiomycota, 3.1% Chytridiomycota, 0.8% Mucoromycota and 0.7% Oomycota. The most common fungi were Malassezia restricta E. Guého, J. Guillot & Midgley (20.1% of all high-quality fungal sequences), Pezizella discreta (P. Karst.) Dennis (10.8%) and Epicoccum nigrum Link (4.9%). The most common oomycetes were Phytopythium cf. citrinum (B. Paul) Abad, de Cock, Bala, Robideau, Lodhi & Lévesque (0.4%), Phytophthora gallica T. Jung & J. Nechwatal (0.05%) and Peronospora sp. 4248_322 (0.05%). The results demonstrated that the irrigation water used by forest nurseries was inhabited by a species-rich but largely site-specific communities of fungi. Plant pathogens were relatively rare, but, under suitable conditions, these can develop rapidly, spread efficiently through the irrigation system and be a threat to the production of high-quality tree seedlings.
Biomass Allocation into Woody Parts and Foliage in Young Common Aspen (Populus tremula L.)—Trees and a Stand-Level Study in the Western Carpathians
Authors: Konôpka Bohdan , Pajtík Jozef , Šebeň Vladimír , Surový Peter , Merganičová Katarína
Published: April 2020

Our research of common aspen (Populus tremula L.) focused on the forested mountainous area in central Slovakia. Forest stands (specifically 27 plots from 9 sites) with ages between 2 and 15 years were included in measurements and sampling. Whole tree biomass of aspen individuals was destructively sampled, separated into tree components (leaves, branches, stem, and roots), and then dried and weighed. Subsamples of fresh leaves from three crown parts (upper, middle, and lower) were scanned, dried, and weighed. Allometric biomass models with stem base diameter as an independent variable were derived for individual tree components. Basic foliage traits, i.e., leaf mass, leaf area, and specific leaf area, were modelled with regard to tree size and leaf position within the crown. Moreover, biomass stock of the woody parts and foliage as well as the leaf area index were modelled using mean stand diameter as an independent variable. Foliage traits changed with both tree size and crown part. Biomass models showed that foliage contribution to total tree biomass decreased with tree size. The total foliage area of a tree increased with tree size, reaching its maximum value of about 12 m2 for a tree with a diameter of 120 mm. Leaf area index increased with mean stand diameter, reaching a maximum value of 13.5 m2 m−2. Since no data for biomass allocation for common aspen had been available at either the tree or stand levels, our findings might serve for both theoretical (e.g., modelling of growth processes) and practical (forestry and agro-forestry stakeholders) purposes.
Micro-Blog Sentiment Classification Method Based on the Personality and Bagging Algorithm
Authors: Yang Wenzhong , Yuan Tingting , Wang Liejun
Published: April 2020

Integrated learning can be used to combine weak classifiers in order to improve the effect of emotional classification. Existing methods of emotional classification on micro-blogs seldom consider utilizing integrated learning. Personality can significantly influence user expressions but is seldom accounted for in emotional classification. In this study, a micro-blog emotion classification method is proposed based on a personality and bagging algorithm (PBAL). Introduce text personality analysis and use rule-based personality classification methods to divide five personality types. The micro-blog text is first classified using five personality basic emotion classifiers and a general emotion classifier. A long short-term memory language model is then used to train an emotion classifier for each set, which are then integrated together. Experimental results show that compared with traditional sentiment classifiers, PBAL has higher accuracy and recall. The F value has increased by 9%.
De Novo Transcriptome Assembly and Annotation of Liver and Brain Tissues of Common Brushtail Possums (Trichosurus vulpecula) in New Zealand: Transcriptome Diversity after Decades of Population Control
Authors: Emami-Khoyi Arsalan , Parbhu Shilpa Pradeep , Ross James G. , Murphy Elaine C. , Bothwell Jennifer , Monsanto Daniela M. , Vuuren Bettine Jansen van , Teske Peter R. , Paterson Adrian M.
Published: April 2020

The common brushtail possum (Trichosurus vulpecula), introduced from Australia in the mid-nineteenth century, is an invasive species in New Zealand where it is widespread and forms the largest self-sustained reservoir of bovine tuberculosis (Mycobacterium bovis) among wild populations. Conservation and agricultural authorities regularly apply a series of population control measures to suppress brushtail possum populations. The evolutionary consequence of more than half a century of intensive population control operations on the species’ genomic diversity and population structure is hindered by a paucity of available genomic resources. This study is the first to characterise the functional content and diversity of brushtail possum liver and brain cerebral cortex transcriptomes. Raw sequences from hepatic cells and cerebral cortex were assembled into 58,001 and 64,735 transcripts respectively. Functional annotation and polymorphism assignment of the assembled transcripts demonstrated a considerable level of variation in the core metabolic pathways that represent potential targets for selection pressure exerted by chemical toxicants. This study suggests that the brushtail possum population in New Zealand harbours considerable variation in metabolic pathways that could potentially promote the development of tolerance against chemical toxicants.
Farnesol and Tyrosol: Secondary Metabolites with a Crucial quorum-sensing Role in Candida Biofilm Development
Authors: Rodrigues Célia F. , Černáková Lucia
Published: April 2020

When living in biological and interactive communities, microorganisms use quorum-sensing mechanisms for their communication. According to cell density, bacteria and fungi can produce signaling molecules (e.g., secondary metabolites), which participate, for example, in the regulation of gene expression and coordination of collective behavior in their natural niche. The existence of these secondary metabolites plays a main role in competence, colonization of host tissues and surfaces, morphogenesis, and biofilm development. Therefore, for the design of new antibacterials or antifungals and understanding on how these mechanisms occur, to inhibit the secretion of quorum-sensing (e.g., farnesol and tyrosol) molecules leading the progress of microbial infections seems to be an interesting option. In yeasts, farnesol has a main role in the morphological transition, inhibiting hyphae production in a concentration-dependent manner, while tyrosol has a contrary function, stimulating transition from spherical cells to germ tube form. It is beyond doubt that secretion of both molecules by fungi has not been fully described, but specific meaning for their existence has been found. This brief review summarizes the important function of these two compounds as signaling chemicals participating mainly in Candida morphogenesis and regulatory mechanisms.
The Role of Metabolites in the Link between DNA Replication and Central Carbon Metabolism in Escherichia coli
Authors: Krause Klaudyna , Maciąg-Dorszyńska Monika , Wosinski Anna , Gaffke Lidia , Morcinek-Orłowska Joanna , Rintz Estera , Bielańska Patrycja , Szalewska-Pałasz Agnieszka , Muskhelishvili Georgi , Węgrzyn Grzegorz
Published: April 2020

A direct link between DNA replication regulation and central carbon metabolism (CCM) has been previously demonstrated in Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli, as effects of certain mutations in genes coding for replication proteins could be specifically suppressed by particular mutations in genes encoding CCM enzymes. However, specific molecular mechanism(s) of this link remained unknown. In this report, we demonstrate that various CCM metabolites can suppress the effects of mutations in different replication genes of E. coli on bacterial growth, cell morphology, and nucleoid localization. This provides evidence that the CCM-replication link is mediated by metabolites rather than direct protein-protein interactions. On the other hand, action of metabolites on DNA replication appears indirect rather than based on direct influence on the replication machinery, as rate of DNA synthesis could not be corrected by metabolites in short-term experiments. This corroborates the recent discovery that in B. subtilis, there are multiple links connecting CCM to DNA replication initiation and elongation. Therefore, one may suggest that although different in detail, the molecular mechanisms of CCM-dependent regulation of DNA replication are similar in E. coli and B. subtilis, making this regulation an important and common constituent of the control of cell physiology in bacteria.
Coadjuvant Anti-VEGF A Therapy Improves Survival in Patients with Colorectal Cancer with Liver Metastasis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Novo Isabel , Campos Bárbara , Pinto-Ribeiro Filipa , Martins Sandra F.
Published: April 2020

Background: the presence of liver metastasis in colorectal cancer (CRC) remains one of the most significant prognostic factors. Objective: systematically review the results of studies evaluating the benefit of adding bevacizumab to a normal chemotherapy regime in the survival of patients with colorectal-cancer liver metastasis (CRLM). Search methods: Pubmed and Google Scholar databases were searched for eligible articles (from inception up to the 2 April 2019). Inclusion criteria: studies including patients with CRLM receiving anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF; bevacizumab) as treatment, overall survival as an outcome; regarding language restrictions, only articles in English were accepted. Main results: Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria. In 73% of these cases, chemotherapy with bevacizumab was an effective treatment modality for treating CRLM, and its administration significantly extended both overall survival (OS) and/or progression-free survival (PFS). Nevertheless, three articles showed no influence on survival rates of bevacizumab-associated chemotherapy. Author conclusions: It is necessary to standardize methodologies that aim to evaluate the impact of bevacizumab administration on the survival of patients with CRLM. Furthermore, follow-up time and the cause of a patient’s death should be recorded, specified, and cleared in order to better calculate the survival rate and provide a comparison between the produced literature.
“Let’s Talk about Physical Activity”: Understanding the Preferences of Under-Served Communities when Messaging Physical Activity Guidelines to the Public
Authors: Nobles James , Thomas Clare , Banks Gross Zoe , Hamilton Malcolm , Trinder-Widdess Zoe , Speed Christopher , Gibson Andy , Davies Rosie , Farr Michelle , Jago Russell , Foster Charlie , Redwood Sabi
Published: April 2020

Despite many countries having physical activity guidelines, there have been few concerted efforts to mobilize this information to the public. The aim of this study was to understand the preferences of under-served community groups about how the benefits of physical activity, and associated guidelines, can be better communicated to the public. Participatory workshops, co-developed between researchers, a local charity, and a community artist, were used to gather data from four groups in Bristol, UK: young people (n = 17); adults (n = 11); older adults (n = 5); and Somali women (n = 15). Workshop content was structured around the study aims. The community artist and/or the local charity delivered the workshops, with researchers gathering data via observation, photos, and audio-recordings, which were analysed using the framework method. All four groups noted that the benefits of physical activity should be included within any communications efforts, though not restricted to health-related benefits. Language used should be simple and jargon-free; terms such as “sedentary”, “vigorous” and “intensity” were deemed inaccessible, however all groups liked the message “some is good, more is better”. Views about preferred mechanisms, and messenger, for delivering physical activity messages varied both between, and within, groups. Recommendations for those working in physical activity communications, research, and policy are provided.
Impact of Preheating Temperature on the Separation of Whey Proteins When Combined with Chemical or Bipolar Membrane Electrochemical Acidification
Authors: Aspirault Claudie , Doyen Alain , Bazinet Laurent
Published: April 2020

Separation of α-lactalbumin and β-lactoglobulin improves their respective nutritional and functional properties. One strategy to improve their fractionation is to modify their pH and ionic strength to induce the selective aggregation and precipitation of one of the proteins of interest. Electrodialysis with bipolar membrane (EDBM) is a green process that simultaneously provides acidification and demineralization of a solution without adding any chemical compounds. This research presents the impact on whey proteins separation of different preheating temperatures (20, 50, 55 and 60 °C) combined with EDBM or chemical acidification of 10% whey protein isolate solutions. A β-lactoglobulin fraction at 81.8% purity was obtained in the precipitate after EDBM acidification and preheated at 60 °C, representing a recovery yield of 35.8%. In comparison, chemical acidification combined with a 60 °C preheating treatment provides a β-lactoglobulin fraction at 70.9% purity with a 11.6% recovery yield. The combination of EDBM acidification with a preheating treatment at 60 °C led to a better separation of the main whey proteins than chemical acidification.
Aptamers, the Nucleic Acid Antibodies, in Cancer Therapy
Authors: Fu Zhaoying , Xiang Jim
Published: April 2020

The arrival of the monoclonal antibody (mAb) technology in the 1970s brought with it the hope of conquering cancers to the medical community. However, mAbs, on the whole, did not achieve the expected wonder in cancer therapy although they do have demonstrated successfulness in the treatment of a few types of cancers. In 1990, another technology of making biomolecules capable of specific binding appeared. This technique, systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX), can make aptamers, single-stranded DNAs or RNAs that bind targets with high specificity and affinity. Aptamers have some advantages over mAbs in therapeutic uses particularly because they have little or no immunogenicity, which means the feasibility of repeated use and fewer side effects. In this review, the general properties of the aptamer, the advantages and limitations of aptamers, the principle and procedure of aptamer production with SELEX, particularly the undergoing studies in aptamers for cancer therapy, and selected anticancer aptamers that have entered clinical trials or are under active investigations are summarized.