bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PLEKHA8P1 Promotes Tumor Progression and Indicates Poor Prognosis of Liver Cancer
Authors: Lee Jiyeon , Hwang Ji-Hyun , Chun Harim , Woo Wonjin , Oh Sekyung , Choi Jungmin , Kim Lark Kyun
Published: July 2021

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) records the second-lowest 5-year survival rate despite the avalanche of research into diagnosis and therapy. One of the major obstacles in treatment is chemoresistance to drugs such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), making identification and elucidation of chemoresistance regulators highly valuable. As the regulatory landscape grows to encompass non-coding genes such as long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), a relatively new class of lncRNA has emerged in the form of pseudogene-derived lncRNAs. Through bioinformatics analyses of the TCGA LIHC dataset, we have systematically identified pseudogenes of prognostic value. Initial experimental validation of selected pseudogene-derived lncRNA (PLEKHA8P1) and its parental gene (PLEKHA8), a well-studied transport protein in Golgi complex recently implicated as an oncogene in both colorectal and liver cancer, indicates that the pseudogene/parental gene pair promotes tumor progression and that their dysregulated expression levels affect 5-FU-induced chemoresistance in human HCC cell line FT3-7. Our study has thus confirmed cancer-related functions of PLEKHA8, and laid the groundwork for identification and validation of oncogenic pseudogene-derived lncRNA that shows potential as a novel therapeutic target in circumventing chemoresistance induced by 5-FU.
Exogenous Brassinosteroid Facilitates Xylem Development in Pinus massoniana Seedlings
Authors: Fan Fuhua , Zhou Zijing , Qin Huijuan , Tan Jianhui , Ding Guijie
Published: July 2021

Brassinosteroids (BRs) are known to be essential regulators for wood formation in herbaceous plants and poplar, but their roles in secondary growth and xylem development are still not well-defined, especially in pines. Here, we treated Pinus massoniana seedlings with different concentrations of exogenous BRs, and assayed the effects on plant growth, xylem development, endogenous phytohormone contents and gene expression within stems. Application of exogenous BR resulted in improving development of xylem more than phloem, and promoting xylem development in a dosage-dependent manner in a certain concentration rage. Endogenous hormone determination showed that BR may interact with other phytohormones in regulating xylem development. RNA-seq analysis revealed that some conventional phenylpropanoid biosynthesis- or lignin synthesis-related genes were downregulated, but the lignin content was elevated, suggesting that new lignin synthesis pathways or other cell wall components should be activated by BR treatment in P. massoniana. The results presented here reveal the foundational role of BRs in regulating plant secondary growth, and provide the basis for understanding molecular mechanisms of xylem development in P. massoniana.
Anti-Apoptotic and Antioxidant Activities of the Mitochondrial Estrogen Receptor Beta in N2A Neuroblastoma Cells
Authors: Tsialtas Ioannis , Georgantopoulos Achilleas , Karipidou Maria E. , Kalousi Foteini D. , Karra Aikaterini G. , Leonidas Demetrios D. , Psarra Anna-Maria G.
Published: July 2021

Estrogens are steroid hormones that play a crucial role in the regulation of the reproductive and non-reproductive system physiology. Among non-reproductive systems, the nervous system is mainly affected by estrogens due to their antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and anti-inflammatory activities, which are mediated by membranous and nuclear estrogen receptors, and also by non-estrogen receptor-associated estrogen actions. Neuronal viability and functionality are also associated with the maintenance of mitochondrial functions. Recently, the localization of estrogen receptors, especially estrogen receptor beta, in the mitochondria of many types of neuronal cells is documented, indicating the direct involvement of the mitochondrial estrogen receptor beta (mtERβ) in the maintenance of neuronal physiology. In this study, cell lines of N2A cells stably overexpressing a mitochondrial-targeted estrogen receptor beta were generated and further analyzed to study the direct involvement of mtERβ in estrogen neuroprotective antioxidant and anti-apoptotic actions. Results from this study revealed that the presence of estrogen receptor beta in mitochondria render N2A cells more resistant to staurosporine- and H2O2-induced apoptotic stimuli, as indicated by the reduced activation of caspase-9 and -3, the increased cell viability, the increased ATP production, and the increased resistance to mitochondrial impairment in the presence or absence of 17-β estradiol (E2). Thus, the direct involvement of mtERβ in antioxidant and anti-apoptotic activities is documented, rendering mtERβ a promising therapeutic target for mitochondrial dysfunction-associated degenerative diseases.
The Effect of Castration on Peripheral Autonomic Neurons Supplying Mammalian Male Genitourinary System
Authors: Kaleczyc Jerzy , Lepiarczyk Ewa
Published: July 2021

This review paper deals with the influence of androgens (testosterone) on pelvic autonomic pathways in male mammals. The vast majority of the relevant information has been gained in experiments involving castration (testosterone deprivation) performed in male rats, and recently, in male pigs. In both species, testosterone significantly affects the biology of the pathway components, including the pelvic neurons. However, there are great differences between rats and pigs in this respect. The most significant alteration is that testosterone deprivation accomplished a few days after birth results some months later in the excessive loss (approximately 90%) of pelvic and urinary bladder trigone intramural neurons in the male pig, while no changes in the number of pelvic neurons are observed in male rats (rats do not have the intramural ganglia). In the castrated pigs, much greater numbers of pelvic neurons than in the non-castrated animals express CGRP, GAL, VIP (peptides known to have neuroprotective properties), and caspase 3, suggesting that neurons die due to apoptosis triggered by androgen deprivation. In contrast, only some morpho-electrophysiological changes affecting neurons following castration are found in male rats. Certain clinicopathological consequences of testosterone deprivation for the functioning of urogenital organs are also discussed.
The Role of TRPM2 in Endothelial Function and Dysfunction
Authors: Zielińska Wioletta , Zabrzyński Jan , Gagat Maciej , Grzanka Alina
Published: July 2021

The transient receptor potential (TRP) melastatin-like subfamily member 2 (TRPM2) is a non-selective calcium-permeable cation channel. It is expressed by many mammalian tissues, including bone marrow, spleen, lungs, heart, liver, neutrophils, and endothelial cells. The best-known mechanism of TRPM2 activation is related to the binding of ADP-ribose to the nudix-box sequence motif (NUDT9-H) in the C-terminal domain of the channel. In cells, the production of ADP-ribose is a result of increased oxidative stress. In the context of endothelial function, TRPM2-dependent calcium influx seems to be particularly interesting as it participates in the regulation of barrier function, cell death, cell migration, and angiogenesis. Any impairments of these functions may result in endothelial dysfunction observed in such conditions as atherosclerosis or hypertension. Thus, TRPM2 seems to be an attractive therapeutic target for the conditions connected with the increased production of reactive oxygen species. However, before the application of TRPM2 inhibitors will be possible, some issues need to be resolved. The main issues are the lack of specificity, poor membrane permeabilization, and low stability in in vivo conditions. The article aims to summarize the latest findings on a role of TRPM2 in endothelial cells. We also show some future perspectives for the application of TRPM2 inhibitors in cardiovascular system diseases.
The Role of Leptin in Childhood Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP): An Anti-Inflammatory Agent?
Authors: Thomas Iason , Panagoulias Ioannis , Aggeletopoulou Ioanna , Varvarigou Anastasia , Spiliotis Bessie E. , Mouzaki Athanasia
Published: July 2021

To investigate the effect of leptin in childhood ITP, we measured plasma leptin in 39 children with acute ITP, after treatment and in remission, and in 33 healthy age/BMI-matched controls. We also cultured ITP and control peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) with recombinant leptin to assess its direct effect on pro/anti-inflammatory cytokine gene expression. A significant increase in leptin was observed in children with active disease compared to controls. A significant inverse correlation of leptin with platelet count was also observed in children with acute ITP. Leptin remained high after treatment with IVIg, whereas steroid treatment lowered leptin below control levels. In remission, leptin was in the control range. Cytokine gene expression was significantly increased in children with acute ITP compared with controls, with highest expression for IFN-γ and IL-10. IVIg/steroid treatment significantly decreased IFN-γ and IL-10 expression. In remission, IFN-γ and IL-10 expression remained low. Addition of leptin to PBMCs isolated from patients in remission resulted in a significant increase in IL-10 gene expression compared to controls. Further experiments with purified T-cells and monocytes identified monocytes as the source of leptin-induced IL-10. We suggest that leptin acts as an active anti-inflammatory agent in childhood ITP by promoting IL-10 secretion by monocytes.
Subthreshold Micropulse Laser Modulates Retinal Neuroinflammatory Biomarkers in Diabetic Macular Edema
Authors: Frizziero Luisa , Calciati Andrea , Midena Giulia , Torresin Tommaso , Parrozzani Raffaele , Pilotto Elisabetta , Midena Edoardo
Published: July 2021

Subthreshold micropulse laser treatment has become a recognized option in the therapeutic approach to diabetic macular edema. However, some yet undefined elements pertaining to its mechanism of action and most effective treatment method still limit its clinical diffusion. We reviewed the current literature on subthreshold micropulse laser treatment, particularly focusing on its effects on the modulation of retinal neuroinflammation. Subthreshold micropulse laser treatment seems to determine a long-term normalization of specific retinal neuroinflammatory metabolic pathways, contributing to the restoration of retinal homeostasis and the curtailing of local inflammatory processes. Optimized and standardized parameters ensure effective and safe treatment.
The Influence of Depression, Anxiety and Cognition on the Treatment Effects of Ginkgo biloba Extract EGb 761® in Patients with Tinnitus and Dementia: A Mediation Analysis
Authors: Brüggemann Petra , Sória Marília , Brandes-Schramm Juliette , Mazurek Birgit
Published: July 2021

Background: Comorbid occurrence of tinnitus and emotional symptoms of anxiety and depression is highly prevalent. The Ginkgo biloba extract EGb 761® has been shown to be effective in reducing neuropsychiatric symptoms in patients with dementia and tinnitus. Methods: We performed a mediation analysis to evaluate direct effects of EGb 761® on tinnitus severity, as well as indirect effects mediated by symptoms of depression and anxiety and by changed cognition. We pooled data from subsets of patients suffering from tinnitus that were enrolled in three double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials, which investigated the efficacy of EGb 761® (240 mg/day for 22–24 weeks) in dementia with concomitant neuropsychiatric symptoms. Results: In total, 594 patients suffered from tinnitus (EGb 761®, 289; placebo, 305). Direct effects of EGb 761® on tinnitus severity (p < 0.001) in patients with mild to moderate dementia were found to represent about 60% of the total effect, whereas the indirect effects (p < 0.001) mediated by improvement of anxiety, depression and cognition represented about 40% of the total effect. Conclusions: EGb 761® could be considered as a supporting treatment for tinnitus in elderly patients suffering from dementia, with added benefit in those with symptoms of depression or anxiety.
There and Back Again: Hox Clusters Use Both DNA Strands
Authors: Novikova Elena L. , Kulakova Milana A.
Published: July 2021

Bilaterian animals operate the clusters of Hox genes through a rich repertoire of diverse mechanisms. In this review, we will summarize and analyze the accumulated data concerning long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) that are transcribed from sense (coding) DNA strands of Hox clusters. It was shown that antisense regulatory RNAs control the work of Hox genes in cis and trans, participate in the establishment and maintenance of the epigenetic code of Hox loci, and can even serve as a source of regulatory peptides that switch cellular energetic metabolism. Moreover, these molecules can be considered as a force that consolidates the cluster into a single whole. We will discuss the examples of antisense transcription of Hox genes in well-studied systems (cell cultures, morphogenesis of vertebrates) and bear upon some interesting examples of antisense Hox RNAs in non-model Protostomia.
Koji Starter and Koji World in Japan
Authors: Yamashita Hideyuki
Published: July 2021

Koji is made by culturing koji mold on grains. Koji has wide-ranging applications, for example, in alcoholic beverages and seasonings. The word ‘mold’ generally has a bad image, but in Japan, koji mold is valued for its usefulness, and over the years, efforts have been made to make safe, stable, and delicious food products from it. Koji mold spores, essential when making koji, are called koji starter in the industry. From the many available strains, those suitable for the production of each fermented food are chosen based on indicators such as growth rate and enzyme production capacity. In manufacturing using microorganisms, purity and yield are prioritized. However, the production of fermented foods using koji is more complex, with focus not only on the degree of decomposition of raw materials but also on factors influencing overall product design, including palatability, color, smell, and texture. Production can be facilitated by the variety of koji brought about by the diversity of koji mold combined with the solid culture method which increases the amount of enzyme production. In this report, we introduce the history of koji starter in Japan, the characteristics of koji mold in practice, and various fermented foods made from it. In addition, the factors affecting the quality of koji in solid culture are described.
International Environmental Agreements and CO2 Emissions: Fresh Evidence from 11 Polluting Countries
Authors: Oikonomou Aikaterina , Polemis Michael , Soursou Symeoni-Eleni
Published: July 2021

This study attempts to evaluate the energy and carbon footprint within the framework of international environmental treaties and the efforts made by 11 large polluting countries to mitigate climate change. The econometric methodology accounts for the presence of cross-sectional dependence while it employs second-generation panel unit root tests and cointegrated relationships. To secure the robustness of our findings, we conduct an ARDL approach employing dynamic panel data techniques. Dynamic OLS is also applied to verify the validity of the empirical results. The empirical analysis supports that the reduction in CO2 emissions can be achieved without a slowdown in economic activity for the sample countries. The findings suggest insightful policy implications for policymakers and government officials.
Securing Land Rights for All through Fit-for-Purpose Land Administration Approach: The Case of Nepal
Authors: Panday Uma Shankar , Chhatkuli Raja Ram , Joshi Janak Raj , Deuja Jagat , Antonio Danilo , Enemark Stig
Published: July 2021

After the political change in Nepal of 1951, leapfrog land policy improvements have been recorded, however, the land reform initiatives have been short of full success. Despite a land administration system based on cadaster and land registries in place, 25% of the arable land with an estimated 10 million spatial units on the ground are informally occupied and are off-register. Recently, a strong political will has emerged to ensure land rights for all. Providing tenure security to all these occupants using the conventional surveying and land administration approach demands a large amount of skilled human resources, a long timeframe and a huge budget. To assess the suitability of the fit-for-purpose land administration (FFPLA) approach for nationwide mapping and registration of informality in the Nepalese context, the identification, verification and recordation (IVR) of the people-to-land relationship was conducted through two pilot studies using a participatory approach covering around 1500 and 3400 parcels, respectively, in an urban and a rural setting. The pilot studies were based on the FFPLA National Strategy and utilized satellite imageries and smartphones for identification and verification of land boundaries. Data collection to verification tasks were completed within seven months in the urban settlements and for an average cost of 7.5 USD per parcel; within the rural setting, the pilot study was also completed within 7 months and for an average cost of just over 3 USD per parcel. The studies also informed the discussions on building the legislative and institutional frameworks, which are now in place. With locally trained ‘grassroots surveyors’, the studies have provided a promising alternative to the conventional surveying technologies by providing a fast, inexpensive and acceptable solution. The tested approach may fulfill the commitment to resolve the countrywide mapping of informality. The use of consistent data model and mapping standards are recommended.
French as a Heritage Language in Germany
Authors: Stahnke Johanna , Arnaus Gil Laia , Müller Natascha
Published: July 2021

Research on child heritage speakers (HSs) has shown successful language acquisition, comparable to monolinguals, whereas research on adult HSs often claims incomplete acquisition. This seems to be an evident contradiction in the current state of research, which may be explained by a possible language shift during adolescence or adulthood, but which does not necessarily have to be equated with a lack of competence. In an overview of the existing studies on child and adult HSs of French in Germany, we show that HSs are not incomplete acquirers of French and we suggest theoretical and practical implications following these findings. Our aim is to show, first, that HSs of French in Germany are not unanimously disadvantaged compared with French speakers in countries where French is a majority language, and second, that complete acquisition is independent of language dominance, a notion that has received particular attention in studies on multilingual and HL acquisition.
Association of Gut Microbiome Dysbiosis with Neurodegeneration: Can Gut Microbe-Modifying Diet Prevent or Alleviate the Symptoms of Neurodegenerative Diseases?
Authors: Tan Li Yang , Yeo Xin Yi , Bae Han-Gyu , Lee Delia Pei Shan , Ho Roger C. , Kim Jung Eun , Jo Dong-Gyu , Jung Sangyong
Published: July 2021

The central nervous system was classically perceived as anatomically and functionally independent from the other visceral organs. But in recent decades, compelling evidence has led the scientific community to place a greater emphasis on the role of gut microbes on the brain. Pathological observations and early gastrointestinal symptoms highlighted that gut dysbiosis likely precedes the onset of cognitive deficits in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients. The delicate balance in the number and functions of pathogenic microbes and alternative probiotic populations is critical in the modulation of systemic inflammation and neuronal health. However, there is limited success in restoring healthy microbial biodiversity in AD and PD patients with general probiotics interventions and fecal microbial therapies. Fortunately, the gut microflora is susceptible to long-term extrinsic influences such as lifestyle and dietary choices, providing opportunities for treatment through comparatively individual-specific control of human behavior. In this review, we examine the impact of restrictive diets on the gut microbiome populations associated with AD and PD. The overall evidence presented supports that gut dysbiosis is a plausible prelude to disease onset, and early dietary interventions are likely beneficial for the prevention and treatment of progressive neurodegenerative diseases.
A Review on Metastable Silicon Allotropes
Authors: Fan Linlin , Yang Deren , Li Dongsheng
Published: July 2021

Diamond cubic silicon is widely used for electronic applications, integrated circuits, and photovoltaics, due to its high abundance, nontoxicity, and outstanding physicochemical properties. However, it is a semiconductor with an indirect band gap, depriving its further development. Fortunately, other polymorphs of silicon have been discovered successfully, and new functional allotropes are continuing to emerge, some of which are even stable in ambient conditions and could form the basis for the next revolution in electronics, stored energy, and optoelectronics. Such structures can lead to some excellent features, including a wide range of direct or quasi-direct band gaps allowed efficient for photoelectric conversion (examples include Si-III and Si-IV), as well as a smaller volume expansion as lithium-battery anode material (such as Si24, Si46, and Si136). This review aims to give a detailed overview of these exciting new properties and routes for the synthesis of novel Si allotropes. Lastly, the key problems and the developmental trends are put forward at the end of this article.
Effect of Loading Frequency Ratio on Multiaxial Asynchronous Fatigue Failure of 30CrMnSiA Steel
Authors: Liu Tianqi , Qi Xinxin , Shi Xinhong , Gao Limin , Zhang Tian , Zhang Jianyu
Published: July 2021

Multiaxial asynchronous fatigue experiments were carried out on 30CrMnSiA steel to investigate the influence of frequency ratio on fatigue crack initiation and propagation. Test results show that the surface cracks initiate on the maximum shear stress amplitude planes with larger normal stress, propagate approximately tens of microns, and then propagate along the maximum normal stress planes. The frequency ratio has an obvious effect on the fatigue life. The variation of normal and shear stress amplitudes on the maximum normal stress plane induces the crack retardation, and results in that the crack growth length is longer for the constant amplitude loading than that for the asynchronous loading under the same fatigue life ratio. A few fatigue life prediction models were employed and compared. Results show that the fatigue life predicted by the model of Bannantine-Socie cycle counting method, section critical plane criterion and Palmgren-Miner’s cumulative damage rule were more applicable.
The Impact of Dental Implant Length on Failure Rates: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Abdel-Halim Maha , Issa Dalia , Chrcanovic Bruno Ramos
Published: July 2021

The present review aimed to evaluate the impact of implant length on failure rates between short (<10 mm) and long (≥10 mm) dental implants. An electronic search was undertaken in three databases, as well as a manual search of journals. Implant failure was the outcome evaluated. Meta-analysis was performed in addition to a meta-regression in order to verify how the risk ratio (RR) was associated with the follow-up time. The review included 353 publications. Altogether, there were 25,490 short and 159,435 long implants. Pairwise meta-analysis showed that short implants had a higher failure risk than long implants (RR 2.437, p < 0.001). There was a decrease in the probability of implant failure with longer implants when implants of different length groups were compared. A sensitivity analysis, which plotted together only studies with follow-up times of 7 years or less, resulted in an estimated increase of 0.6 in RR for every additional month of follow-up. In conclusion, short implants showed a 2.5 times higher risk of failure than long implants. Implant failure is multifactorial, and the implant length is only one of the many factors contributing to the loss of an implant. A good treatment plan and the patient’s general health should be taken into account when planning for an implant treatment.
Mechanical Behavior of Plaster Composites Based on Rubber Particles from End-of-Life Tires Reinforced with Carbon Fibers
Authors: Lozano-Díez Rafael Vicente , López-Zaldívar Óscar , Herrero-del-Cura Sofía , Mayor-Lobo Pablo Luís , Hernández-Olivares Francisco
Published: July 2021

The principal objective of this research project is the disposal of end-of-life tire rubber waste and its incorporation in gypsum composites. As a continuation of previous projects, which established a reduction in the mechanical properties of the resulting products, the behavior of these composites is analyzed with the incorporation of carbon fibers. The density, Shore C hardness, flexural strength, compressive strength, dynamic modulus of elasticity, strength–strain curves, toughness and resistance values and microstructure of the material are studied and compared. The results obtained show a significant increase in the mechanical tensile strength of all of the samples containing fibers. The moduli of elasticity results show a decrease in rigidity and increase in toughness and resistance of the material produced by incorporating the fibers. An optimum dosage of a water/gypsum ratio of 0.6 and incorporation of 1.5% carbon fibers is proposed. This lightweight material, which offers a high mechanical performance, features characteristics which are suitable for large prefabricated building elements in the form of panels or boards.
Photoresponsive Amide-Based Derivatives of Azobenzene-4,4′-Dicarboxylic Acid—Experimental and Theoretical Studies
Authors: Łukasik Natalia , Hemine Koleta , Anusiewicz Iwona , Skurski Piotr , Paluszkiewicz Ewa
Published: July 2021

Azobenzene derivatives are one of the most important molecular switches for biological and material science applications. Although these systems represent a well-known group of compounds, there remains a need to identify the factors influencing their photochemical properties in order to design azobenzene-based technologies in a rational way. In this contribution, we describe the synthesis and characterization of two novel amides (L1 and L2) containing photoresponsive azobenzene units. The photochemical properties of the obtained compounds were investigated in DMSO by UV-Vis spectrophotometry, as well as 1H NMR spectroscopy, and the obtained results were rationalized via Density Functional Theory (DFT) methods. After irradiation with UV light, both amides underwent trans to cis isomerization, yielding 40% and 22% of the cis isomer of L1 and L2 amides, respectively. Quantum yields of this process were determined as 6.19% and 2.79% for L1 and L2, respectively. The reverse reaction (i.e., cis to trans isomerization) could be achieved after thermal or visible light activation. The analysis of the theoretically determined equilibrium structure of the transition-state connecting cis and trans isomers on the reaction path indicated that the trans-cis interconversion is pursued via the flipping of the substituent, rather than its rotation around the N=N bond. The kinetics of thermal back-reaction and the effect of the presence of the selected ions on the half-life of the cis form were also investigated and discussed. In the case of L1, the presence of fluoride ions sped the thermal relaxation up, whereas the half-life time of cis-L2 was extended in the presence of tested ions.
Development and Application of Fuzzy Proportional-Integral Control Scheme in Pitch Angle Compensation Loop for Wind Turbines
Authors: AlGhamdi S. , Hamdan I. , Youssef Marwa M. M. , Noureldeen Omar
Published: July 2021

Wind energy is regarded as one of the oldest energy sources and has played a significant role. As the nature of wind changes continuously, the generated power varies accordingly. Generation of the pitch angle of a wind turbine’s blades is controlled to prevent damage during high wind speed. This paper presents the development and application of a fuzzy proportional integral control scheme combined with traditional proportional control in the dynamic behavior of pitch angle-regulated wind turbine blades. The combined control regulates rotor speed and output power, allowing control of the power while maintaining the desired rotor speed and avoiding equipment overloads. The studied model is a large-scale wind farm of 120 MW in the Gulf El-Zayt region, Red Sea, Egypt. The control system validity is substantiated by studying different cases of wind speed function: ramp, step, random, and extreme wind speed. The results are compared with the traditional combined control. The model is simulated using MATLAB/SIMULINK software. The simulation results proved the effectiveness of fuzzy tuned PI against traditional PI control.
On Effectively Indiscernible Projective Sets and the Leibniz-Mycielski Axiom
Authors: Enayat Ali , Kanovei Vladimir , Lyubetsky Vassily
Published: July 2021

Examples of effectively indiscernible projective sets of real numbers in various models of set theory are presented. We prove that it is true, in Miller and Laver generic extensions of the constructible universe, that there exists a lightface Π21 equivalence relation on the set of all nonconstructible reals, having exactly two equivalence classes, neither one of which is ordinal definable, and therefore the classes are OD-indiscernible. A similar but somewhat weaker result is obtained for Silver extensions. The other main result is that for any n, starting with 2, the existence of a pair of countable disjoint OD-indiscernible sets, whose associated equivalence relation belongs to lightface Πn1, does not imply the existence of such a pair with the associated relation in Σn1 or in a lower class.
Cryptocurrency Portfolio Selection—A Multicriteria Approach
Authors: Aljinović Zdravka , Marasović Branka , Šestanović Tea
Published: July 2021

This paper proposes the PROMETHEE II based multicriteria approach for cryptocurrency portfolio selection. Such an approach allows considering a number of variables important for cryptocurrencies rather than limiting them to the commonly employed return and risk. The proposed multiobjective decision making model gives the best cryptocurrency portfolio considering the daily return, standard deviation, value-at-risk, conditional value-at-risk, volume, market capitalization and attractiveness of nine cryptocurrencies from January 2017 to February 2020. The optimal portfolios are calculated at the first of each month by taking the previous 6 months of daily data for the calculations yielding with 32 optimal portfolios in 32 successive months. The out-of-sample performances of the proposed model are compared with five commonly used optimal portfolio models, i.e., naïve portfolio, two mean-variance models (in the middle and at the end of the efficient frontier), maximum Sharpe ratio and the middle of the mean-CVaR (conditional value-at-risk) efficient frontier, based on the average return, standard deviation and VaR (value-at-risk) of the returns in the next 30 days and the return in the next trading day for all portfolios on 32 dates. The proposed model wins against all other models according to all observed indicators, with the winnings spanning from 50% up to 94%, proving the benefits of employing more criteria and the appropriate multicriteria approach in the cryptocurrency portfolio selection process.
Aborted Cardiac Arrest in LQT2 Related to Novel KCNH2 (hERG) Variant Identified in One Lithuanian Family
Authors: Bileišienė Neringa , Barysienė Jūratė , Mikštienė Violeta , Preikšaitienė Eglė , Marinskis Germanas , Keževičiūtė Monika , Utkus Algirdas , Aidietis Audrius
Published: July 2021

Congenital long QT syndrome (LQTS) is a hereditary ion channelopathy associated with ventricular arrhythmia and sudden cardiac death starting from young age due to prolonged cardiac repolarization, which is represented by QT interval changes in electrocardiogram (ECG). Mutations in human ether-à-go-go related gene (KCNH2 (7q36.1), formerly named hERG) are responsible for Long QT syndrome type 2 (LQT2). LQT2 is the second most common type of LQTS. A resuscitated 31-year-old male with the diagnosis of LQT2 and his family are described. Sequencing analysis of their genomic DNA was performed. Amino acid alteration p.(Ser631Pro) in KCNH2 gene was found. This variant had not been previously described in literature, and it was found in three nuclear family members with different clinical course of the disease. Better understanding of genetic alterations and genotype-phenotype correlations aids in risk stratification and more effective management of these patients, especially when employing a trigger-specific approach to risk-assessment and individually tailored therapy.
Importance of Apolipoprotein A-I and A-II Composition in HDL and Its Potential for Studying COVID-19 and SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Cho Kyung-Hyun
Published: July 2021

The composition and properties of apolipoprotein (apo) A-I and apoA-II in high-density lipoproteins (HDL) might be critical to SARS-CoV-2 infection via SR-BI and antiviral activity against COVID-19. HDL containing native apoA-I showed potent antiviral activity, while HDL containing glycated apoA-I or other apolipoproteins did not. However, there has been no report to elucidate the putative role of apoA-II in the antiviral activity of HDL.
Impact of Landscape on Host–Parasite Genetic Diversity and Distribution Using the Puumala orthohantavirus–Bank Vole System
Authors: Razzauti Maria , Castel Guillaume , Cosson Jean-François
Published: July 2021

In nature, host specificity has a strong impact on the parasite’s distribution, prevalence, and genetic diversity. The host’s population dynamics is expected to shape the distribution of host-specific parasites. In turn, the parasite’s genetic structure is predicted to mirror that of the host. Here, we study the tandem Puumala orthohantavirus (PUUV)–bank vole system. The genetic diversity of 310 bank voles and 33 PUUV isolates from 10 characterized localities of Northeast France was assessed. Our findings show that the genetic diversity of both PUUV and voles, was positively correlated with forest coverage and contiguity of habitats. While the genetic diversity of voles was weakly structured in space, that of PUUV was found to be strongly structured, suggesting that the dispersion of voles was not sufficient to ensure a broad PUUV dissemination. Genetic diversity of PUUV was mainly shaped by purifying selection. Genetic drift and extinction events were better reflected than local adaptation of PUUV. These contrasting patterns of microevolution have important consequences for the understanding of PUUV distribution and epidemiology.
Guidelines on Standard and Therapeutic Diets for Adults in Hospitals by the French Association of Nutritionist Dieticians (AFDN) and the French Speaking Society of Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (SFNCM)
Authors: Vaillant Marie-France , Alligier Maud , Baclet Nadine , Capelle Julie , Dousseaux Marie-Paule , Eyraud Evelyne , Fayemendy Philippe , Flori Nicolas , Guex Esther , Hennequin Véronique , Lavandier Florence , Martineau Caroline , Morin Marie-Christine , Mokaddem Fady , Parmentier Isabelle , Rossi-Pacini Florence , Soriano Gaëlle , Verdier Elisabeth , Zeanandin Gilbert , Quilliot Didier
Published: July 2021

Aim: Hospital food provision is subject to multiple constraints (meal production, organization, health safety, environmental respect) which influence the meal tray offered to the patient. Multiple diets can add complexity and contribute to non-consumption of the meal. To avoid undernutrition, it appeared necessary to propose guidelines for foods and diets in hospitals. Methods: These guidelines were developed using the Delphi method, as recommended by the HAS (French Health Authority), based on a formal consensus of experts and led by a group of practitioners and dieticians from the AFDN (French Association of Nutritionist Dieticians) and SFNCM (French Society of Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism). Results: Twenty-three recommendations were deemed appropriate and validated by a panel of 50 national experts, following three rounds of consultations, modifications and final strong agreement. These recommendations aim to define in adults: 1—harmonized vocabulary related to food and diets in hospitals; 2—quantitative and qualitative food propositions; 3—nutritional prescriptions; 4—diet patterns and patient adaptations; 5—streamlining of restrictions to reduce unnecessary diets and without scientific evidence; 6—emphasizing the place of an enriched and adapted diet for at-risk and malnourished patients. Conclusion: These guidelines will enable catering services and health-care teams to rationalize hospital food and therapeutic food prescriptions in order to focus on individual needs and tasty foods. All efforts should be made to create meals that follow these recommendations while promoting the taste quality of the dishes and their presentation such that the patient rediscovers the pleasure of eating in the hospital.
Gut Microbiota and Probiotics/Synbiotics for Modulation of Immunity in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Shimizu Kentaro , Ojima Masahiro , Ogura Hiroshi
Published: July 2021

Patients suffering from critical illness have host inflammatory responses against injuries, such as infection and trauma, that can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death. Modulation of host immune response as well as infection and damage control are detrimental factors in the management of systemic inflammation. The gut is the motor of multiple organ failure following injury, and it is recognized that gut dysfunction is one of the causative factors of disease progression. The gut microbiota has a role in maintaining host immunity, and disruption of the gut microbiota might induce an immunosuppressive condition in critically ill patients. Treatment with probiotics and synbiotics has been reported to attenuate systemic inflammation by maintaining gut microbiota and to reduce postoperative infectious complications and ventilator-associated pneumonia. The administration of prophylactic probiotics/synbiotics could be an important treatment option for preventing infectious complications and modulating immunity. Further basic and clinical research is needed to promote intestinal therapies for critically ill patients.
Selection for Plastic, Pathogen-Inducible Recombination in a Red Queen Model with Diploid Antagonists
Authors: Rybnikov Sviatoslav , Frenkel Zeev , Korol Abraham , Fahima Tzion
Published: July 2021

Antagonistic interactions and co-evolution between a host and its parasite are known to cause oscillations in the population genetic structure of both species (Red Queen dynamics). Potentially, such oscillations may select for increased sex and recombination in the host, although theoretical models suggest that this happens under rather restricted values of selection intensity, epistasis, and other parameters. Here, we explore a model in which the diploid parasite succeeds to infect the diploid host only if their phenotypes at the interaction-mediating loci match. Whenever regular oscillations emerge in this system, we test whether plastic, pathogen-inducible recombination in the host can be favored over the optimal constant recombination. Two forms of the host recombination dependence on the parasite pressure were considered: either proportionally to the risk of infection (prevention strategy) or upon the fact of infection (remediation strategy). We show that both forms of plastic recombination can be favored, although relatively infrequently (up to 11% of all regimes with regular oscillations, and up to 20% of regimes with obligate parasitism). This happens under either strong overall selection and high recombination rate in the host, or weak overall selection and low recombination rate in the host. In the latter case, the system’s dynamics are considerably more complex. The prevention strategy is favored more often than the remediation one. It is noteworthy that plastic recombination can be favored even when any constant recombination is rejected, making plasticity an evolutionary mechanism for the rescue of host recombination.
Suppression of Intracellular Reactive Oxygen Species in Human Corneal Epithelial Cells via the Combination of Quercetin Nanoparticles and Epigallocatechin Gallate and In Situ Thermosensitive Gel Formulation for Ocular Drug Delivery
Authors: Chittasupho Chuda , Junmahasathien Taepin , Chalermmongkol Jiratchaya , Wongjirasakul Raksakul , Leesawat Phuriwat , Okonogi Siriporn
Published: July 2021

Oxidative stress can cause several severe ophthalmological diseases. In this study, we developed a thermosensitive gel as a delivery system for two antioxidant substances, namely, quercetin and epigallocatechin gallate. The quercetin was loaded in the PLGA nanoparticles using a solvent displacement method. The physical and chemical stability of the quercetin nanoparticles were evaluated, and the degradation kinetics of the quercetin in the nanoparticles was investigated. The in vitro antioxidant and intracellular reactive oxygen species inhibition of the quercetin nanoparticles, combined with the epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), were determined using a 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging assay and a 2,7-dichlorodihydrofluorescein fluorescent probes, respectively. The thermosensitive gel loaded with the quercetin nanoparticles and EGCG was formulated. We confirmed that quercetin nanoparticles displayed the desired physical characteristics, release kinetics, and stability. The combination of quercetin nanoparticles and EGCG suggested the additive effect of antioxidant activity. We also demonstrated the superior intracellular ROS inhibition activity of the quercetin nanoparticles and EGCG with n-acetyl cysteine. The thermosensitive gel showed an appropriate gelation temperature and time for ocular drug delivery. Our results provide promising prospects for applying the thermosensitive gel loaded with quercetin nanoparticles and EGCG as an efficient drug delivery system for antioxidant activity in human corneal epithelial cells.
Characterization of Ex Vivo Nonmelanoma Skin Tissue Using Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Nguyen Hieu T. M. , Zhang Yao , Moy Austin J. , Feng Xu , Sebastian Katherine R. , Reichenberg Jason S. , Fox Matthew C. , Markey Mia K. , Tunnell James W.
Published: July 2021

Raman spectroscopy has shown great potential in detecting nonmelanoma skin cancer accurately and quickly; however, little direct evidence exists on the sensitivity of measurements to the underlying anatomy. Here, we aimed to correlate Raman measurements directly to the underlying tissue anatomy. We acquired Raman spectra of ex vivo skin tissue from 25 patients undergoing Mohs surgery with a fiber probe. We utilized a previously developed biophysical model to extract key biomarkers in the skin from the Raman spectra. We then examined the correlations between the biomarkers and the major skin structures (including the dermis, sebaceous glands, hair follicles, fat, and two types of nonmelanoma skin cancer—basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)). SCC had a significantly different concentration of keratin, collagen, and nucleic acid than normal structures, while ceramide differentiated BCC from normal structures. Our findings identified the key proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids that discriminate nonmelanoma tumors and healthy skin using Raman spectroscopy. These markers may be promising surgical guidance tools for detecting tumors in resection margins.
The Combination of Mild Salinity Conditions and Exogenously Applied Phenolics Modulates Functional Traits in Lettuce
Authors: Zhang Leilei , Martinelli Erika , Senizza Biancamaria , Miras-Moreno Begoña , Yildiztugay Evren , Arikan Busra , Elbasan Fevzi , Ak Gunes , Balci Melike , Zengin Gokhan , Rouphael Youssef , Lucini Luigi
Published: July 2021

The quest for sustainable strategies aimed at increasing the bioactive properties of plant-based foods has grown quickly. In this work, we investigated the impact of exogenously applied phenolics, i.e., chlorogenic acid (CGA), hesperidin (HES), and their combinations (HES + CGA), on Lactuca sativa L. grown under normal- and mild-salinity conditions. To this aim, the phenolic profile, antioxidant properties, and enzyme inhibitory activity were determined. The untargeted metabolomics profiling revealed that lettuce treated with CGA under non-stressed conditions exhibited the highest total phenolic content (35.98 mg Eq./g). Lettuce samples grown under salt stress showed lower phenolic contents, except for lettuce treated with HES or HES + CGA, when comparing the same treatment between the two conditions. Furthermore, the antioxidant capacity was investigated through DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), ABTS (2,20-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonate)), and FRAP (ferric reducing antioxidant power) assays, coupled with metal-chelating activity and phosphomolybdenum capacity. An exciting increase in radical scavenging capacity was observed in lettuce treated with exogenous phenolics, in both stress and non-stress conditions. The inhibitory activity of the samples was evaluated against target health-related enzymes, namely cholinesterases (acetylcholinesterase; AChE; butyryl cholinesterase; BChE), tyrosinase, α-amylase, and α-glucosidase. Lettuce treated with HES + CGA under non-stress conditions exhibited the strongest inhibition against AChE and BChE, while the same treatment under salinity conditions resulted in the highest inhibition capacity against α-amylase. Additionally, CGA under non-stress conditions exhibited the best inhibitory effect against tyrosinase. All the functional traits investigated were significantly modulated by exogenous phenolics, salinity, and their combination. In more detail, flavonoids, lignans, and stilbenes were the most affected phenolics, whereas glycosidase enzymes and tyrosinase activity were the most affected among enzyme assays. In conclusion, the exogenous application of phenolics to lettuce represents an effective and green strategy to effectively modulate the phenolic profile, antioxidant activity, and enzyme inhibitory effects in lettuce, deserving future application to produce functional plant-based foods in a sustainable way.