bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Control of Genome Stability by EndoMS/NucS-Mediated Non-Canonical Mismatch Repair
Authors: Cebrián-Sastre Esmeralda , Martín-Blecua Isabel , Gullón Sonia , Blázquez Jesús , Castañeda-García Alfredo
Published: May 2021

The DNA repair endonuclease EndoMS/NucS is highly conserved in Archaea and Actinobacteria. This enzyme is able to recognize and cleave dsDNA carrying a mismatched base pair, and its activity is enhanced by the interaction with the sliding clamp of the replisome. Today, EndoMS/NucS has been established as the key protein of a non-canonical mismatch repair (MMR) pathway, acting specifically in the repair of transitions and being essential for maintaining genome stability. Despite having some particularities, such as its lower activity on transversions and the inability to correct indels, EndoMS/NucS meets the main hallmarks of a MMR. Its absence leads to a hypermutator phenotype, a transition-biased mutational spectrum and an increase in homeologous recombination. Interestingly, polymorphic EndoMS/NucS variants with a possible effect in mutation rate have been detected in clinical isolates of the relevant actinobacterial pathogen Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Considering that MMR defects are often associated with the emergence of resistant bacteria, the existence of EndoMS/NucS-defective mutators could have an important role in the acquisition of antibiotic resistance in M. tuberculosis. Therefore, a further understanding of the EndoMS/NucS-mediated non-canonical MMR pathway may reveal new strategies to predict and fight drug resistance. This review is focused on the recent progress in NucS, with special emphasis on its effect on genome stability and evolvability in Actinobacteria.
Review of Testing and Qualification of Post-Installed Anchors under Seismic Actions for Structural Applications
Authors: Stehle Erik Johannes , Sharma Akanshu
Published: May 2021

During earthquakes, buildings are subjected to loads well beyond their usual demands, resulting in high stresses in the structural components and additional inertial forces coming from the non-structural elements. When post-installed anchors are used to form the connection between non-structural or structural members and the primary reinforced concrete structure, these anchors are also subjected to high seismic demands. To determine whether a post-installed anchor is suitable for such applications, it is assessed for its performance under seismic demands. In this review paper, the current European approach for testing and qualification of post-installed anchors under seismic actions is reviewed and discussed in the context of structural applications where anchors are used to form the connection between structural members that participate in the load-transfer mechanism against seismic loads. The first part of this paper provides a description of the testing procedures and the criteria against which the anchor performance is assessed. The procedures and assessment criteria are discussed regarding the suitability in the case of the above-described structural applications. In the second part, the qualification of anchors under seismic actions is discussed in the light of an upcoming performance-based design approach for anchors. In such an approach, information on the displacement and hysteretic behavior of an anchor in a broader range of the load–displacement curve is of vital importance. Therefore, additional testing approaches might be required in order to supplement the information on anchor performance provided in the current testing procedures. One such testing approach for pulsating tension load is reported.
Ecology and Conservation of the Laotian langur Trachypithecus laotum in a Protected Area of Laos (Southeast Asia)
Authors: Souwideth Johnny , Phiapalath Phaivanh , Thanh Hai Dong , Brakels Peter , Van Thong Pham , Luiselli Luca
Published: May 2021

Terrestrial species from the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (PDR) are under high threat due to deforestation and overhunting. Previous studies have even defined these forests as subjected to an “empty forest syndrome”, a condition in which forests that are apparently well preserved are instead almost deprived of vertebrate faunas due to extreme exploitation by local communities. Forest specialists, including several primates, are among the most threatened species in the country. The Laotian langur (Trachypithecus laotum) is endemic to Lao PDR, is listed as Endangered by the IUCN Red List, and it is one of the least studied species in the region. A survey on the local distribution, life history and conservation status of the Laotian langur was carried out in Phou Hin Poun National Protected Area, Khammouane Province of Lao PDR. The survey consisted of an initial phase with interviews to select key informants on the Laotian langur and the other primate species of the area. Then, a phase of field surveys along forest transects, totaling 64.1 km of 21 transects, yielded a record of 35 individuals in 9 groups. The highest encounter/detection rate of the Laotian langur was 1 group per km at one sector of the park. In contrast, it was much lower (0.18–0.34 groups/km) in the rest of the protected area. The group sizes were much lower than those observed in the same area between 1994 and 2010, thus suggesting a decline in the population size of langurs. This decline may be linked to habitat loss (timber extraction and mining). Still, also overhunting, as signs of poaching were observed during our field surveys. This was also supported by the reports of our interviewees. Laotian langurs were observed to be sympatric and interact while foraging with the Assamese macaque (Macaca assamensis). In the cases of sympatric occurrence between the two species, we observed that subtle mechanisms of niche partitioning may occur to reduce interspecific competition for food. Further research on the population and ecology of this endangered langur should be conducted to understand the species and aid its conservation.
Exploring Opportunities and Challenges of Solar PV Power under Carbon Peak Scenario in China: A PEST Analysis
Authors: Wang Hengtian , Yang Xiaolong , Xu Xinxin , Fei Liu
Published: May 2021

China has experienced rapid social and economic development in the past 40 years. However, excessive consumption of fossil fuel energy has caused an energy shortage and led to severe environmental pollution. To achieve sustainable development, China is striving to transform its growth mode. Adopting renewable energy (RE) including solar photovoltaic (PV) power is an effective measure. How to promote the further development of solar PV power under the scenario of China’s aspirational target of carbon peak by 2030 and 20% RE ratio in the energy mix remains a theme that need to be addressed. This paper analyzes the potential opportunities and challenges confronting solar PV power in China. The analysis covers the dimensions of political, economic, social, and technological (PEST). The results revealed a significant prospect for the further deployment of solar PV power in the coming decades. The aggressive estimated installed capacity of solar PV power is expected to reach 80+ GW annually. To successfully achieve the goal of 80+ GW, barriers that hinder the further development of solar PV power have to be eliminated. Suggestions for policymakers include maintaining enforceability and continuity of policies, favorable financial supports, mandatory RE quotas for all parties, and supporting fundamental R&D. Suggestions for the solar PV industry include full utilization of integrated applications, set up an after-sales service network, collaborative innovation among the industry chain, and engaging in storage and hydrogen technology. The findings are greatly beneficial for policymakers and the solar PV industry.
The Association between ICT-Based Mobility Services and Sustainable Mobility Behaviors of New Yorkers
Authors: Mostofi Hamid
Published: May 2021

The energy consumption and emissions in the urban transportation are influenced not only by technical efficiency in the mobility operations but also by the citizens’ mobility behaviors including mode choices and modal shift among sustainable and unsustainable mobility modes. Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) can play an important role in the mobility behaviors of citizens, and it is necessary to study whether ICTs support sustainable mode choices like public transport and nonmotorized modes, which increase the total energy efficiency in the urban mobility and reduce traffic congestion and related emissions. This paper focuses on the two most popular ICT services in the urban transport, which are ATIS (Advanced Traveler Information Systems), and ridesourcing services. This study used the New York Citywide Mobility Survey (CMS) findings with a sample of 3346 participants. The associations between using these two ICT services and the mobility behaviors (mode choice with ATIS and modal shift to ridesourcing) are analyzed through a multinomial logistic regression and descriptive statistics, and the results are compared with similar international studies. The findings indicate that the respondents who use ATIS apps more frequently are more likely to use rail modes, bicycles, bus/shuttles, and rental/car sharing than private cars for their work trips. Moreover, the findings of the modal shift to ridesourcing indicate that the most replaced mobility modes by ridesourcing services are public transport (including rail modes and buses), taxis, and private cars, respectively.
Analysis of Caprock Tightness for CO2 Enhanced Oil Recovery and Sequestration: Case Study of a Depleted Oil and Gas Reservoir in Dolomite, Poland
Authors: Słota-Valim Małgorzata , Gołąbek Andrzej , Szott Wiesław , Sowiżdżał Krzysztof
Published: May 2021

This study addresses the problem of geological structure tightness for the purposes of enhanced oil recovery with CO2 sequestration. For the first time in the history of Polish geological survey the advanced methods, practical assumptions, and quantitative results of detailed simulations were applied to study the geological structure of a domestic oil reservoir as a potential candidate for a combined enhanced oil recovery and CO2 sequestration project. An analysis of the structure sequestration capacity and its tightness was performed using numerical methods that combined geomechanical and reservoir fluid flow modelling with a standard two-way coupling procedure. By applying the correlation between the geomechanical state and transport properties of the caprock, threshold pressure variations were determined to be a key factor affecting the sealing properties of the reservoir–caprock boundary. In addition to the estimation of the sequestration capacity of the structure, the process of CO2 leakage from the reservoir to the caprock was simulated for scenarios exceeding the threshold pressure limit of the reservoir–caprock boundary. The long-term simulations resulted in a comprehensive assessment of the total amount of CO2 leakage as a function of time and the leaked CO2 distribution within the caprock.
Influence of Geometrical Changes in an Adiabatic Portion on the Heat Transfer Performance of a Two-Phase Closed Thermosiphon System
Authors: Chandran Mohanraj , Madurai Elavarasan Rajvikram , Neelakandan Ramesh Babu , Subramaniam Umashankar , Pugazhendhi Rishi
Published: May 2021

In this study, a modified non-uniform adiabatic section in a Two-Phase Closed Thermosiphon (TPCT) is proposed where the uniform section was replaced by convergent and divergent (C-D) sections. The heat transfer analysis was performed on the modified TPCT and their findings were compared with standard TPCT. The deionized water (DI) in the proportion of 30 vol% is filled in both the TPCTs. Further, the heat transfer performance analysis was carried out for three different orientations, such as 0°, 45° and 90°, and heat input was varied from 50 to 250 W. The effect of these geometrical changes and inclination angles on the heat transfer performance of both the TPCT were evaluated to compare the thermal resistance, wall temperature variation and heat transfer coefficient. The non-dimensional numbers such as Weber (WE), Bond (BO), Condensation (CO) and Kutateladze (KU) were investigated based on heat fluxes for both TPCTs. By introducing the convergent-divergent section nearer to the condenser, the pressure before and after the C-D section was increased and decreased. This enhances the heat transfer in the evaporator slightly up to 2% and 1.4% at horizontal and 45° orientation, respectively, in Non-Uniformed Adiabatic Section (NUAS) TPCT when compared to Uniformed Adiabatic Section (UAS) TPCT. The thermal resistance of NUAS TPCT was reduced by up to 4.5% relative to UAS TPCT in horizontal and 45°. The results of the non-dimensional number also confirmed that NUAS TPCT provided better performance by enhancing 2% more pool boiling characteristics, interaction forces and condensate returns. Several factors such as gravity assistance, fluid accumulation, pressure drop and thermal resistance exert an influence on the heat transfer performance of the proposed NUAS TPCT at various orientation angles. However, different type of cross-sectional variations subjected to orientation changes may also get influenced by several other parameters that in turn affect the heat transfer performance distinctly.
Computational Analysis of Water-Submerged Jet Erosion
Authors: Ben-Mansour Rached , Badr Hassan M. , Araoye Abdulrazaq A. , Toor Ihsan Ul Haq
Published: May 2021

Erosion causes substantial damage in many industrial equipment such as pump components, valves, elbows, and plugged tees. In most cases, erosion is coupled with corrosion, resulting in major financial loss (nearly 3.4% of the global gross domestic product) as evidenced in oil and gas industries. In most cases, the erosion occurs in a submerged water medium. In this paper, erosion characteristics of stainless steel 316 were investigated computationally in a water-submerged jet impingement setup. The erosion profiles and patterns were obtained for various parameters over ranges of inlet velocities (3 to 16 m/s), nozzle diameters (5 to 10 mm), nozzle–target distances (5 to 20 mm), nozzle shapes (circular, elliptical, square, and rectangular), impingement angles (60° to 90°), and particle sizes (50 to 300 µm). The range of Reynolds number studied based on nozzle diameters is 21,000–120,000. The Eulerian–Lagrangian approach was used for flow field prediction and particle tracking considering one-way coupling for the particle–fluid interaction. The Finnie erosion model was implemented in ANSYS-Fluent 19.2 and used for erosion prediction. The computational model was validated against experimental data and the distributions of the erosion depth as well as the locations of the of maximum and minimum erosion points are well matched. As expected, the results indicate an increase in loss of material thickness with increasing jet velocity. Increasing the nozzle diameter caused a reduction in the maximum depth of eroded material due to decreasing the particle impact density. At a fixed fluid inlet velocity, the maximum thickness loss increases as the separation distance between the nozzle outlet and target increases, aspect ratio of nozzle shape decreases, and impingement angle increases. The erosion patterns showed that the region of substantial thickness loss increases as nozzle size/stand-off height increases and as particle size decreases. In addition, increasing the aspect ratio and impingement angle creates skewed erosion patterns.
Self-Service Restaurants in SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic
Authors: Zandonadi Renata Puppin , Botelho Raquel Braz Assunção , Maynard Dayanne da Costa , Akutsu Rita de Cassia Coelho de Almeida
Published: May 2021

During the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, the self-service restaurant sector, as well as other types of food services, are facing an unprecedented crisis needing to adapt their service to avoid closing their doors. With varied and quick meals, the self-service buffet is one of the most important types of outside services. However, the type of service where the clients follow a line on the buffet and serve their meals has impaired traditional restaurant operation during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and, perhaps, after it. In this sense, this study presents an overview of the self-service buffet restaurant operational system in the context of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.
Valuing Forest Ecosystem Services. Why Is an Integrative Approach Needed?
Authors: Baciu Gabriela Elena , Dobrotă Carmen Elena , Apostol Ecaterina Nicoleta
Published: May 2021

Among the many types of terrestrial ecosystems, forests have some of the highest levels of biodiversity; they also have many interdependent economic, ecological and social functions and provide ecosystem services. They supply a range of tangible, marketable goods, as well as a variety of nonmarketable and intangible services derived from various forest functions. These translate into social, cultural, health and scientific benefits for people’s quality of life. However, because they cannot be traded on a market, nonmarketable and intangible services are often perceived as free, inexhaustible and, as a result, underestimated. The human–nature interaction has affected both nature (via resource consumption) and society (via development of human welfare and well-being). Decision-makers, both public and private, often manage natural capital for multiple aims. In recent years it has been found that the single, individual approach estimating the value for these goods and services is not able to provide information that generates and supports decisions and policies in complex areas of current relevance such as the constant loss of biodiversity, climate change and global warming in close connection with the need for social development and ensuring an acceptable level of well-being for the greatest part of humanity. An integrated assessment with advanced techniques and methods using a pluralist framework of a heterogeneous set of values is considered a better approach to the valuation of such complex nature of the ecosystem goods and services. This assessment should take into account both costs and benefits trade-off issues among the multiple uses of ecosystem goods and/or services, especially the relationships between them and how they influence or determine the economic, social and cultural development of society. It should also consider the estimation of the complex inverse effect, from society to nature, whose goods and services can be diminished to exhaustion by the extensive and intensive anthropization of natural ecosystems with major impact on the number and quality of goods and services provided by ecosystems. Research has shown that applying an integrative assessment approach that utilizes tools developed by sustainability sciences could be an important component of future environmental policy making.
Evaluation of Chemical Kinetic Mechanisms for Methane Combustion: A Review from a CFD Perspective
Authors: Zettervall Niklas , Fureby Christer , Nilsson Elna J. K.
Published: May 2021

Methane is an important fuel for gas turbine and gas engine combustion, and the most common fuel in fundamental combustion studies. As Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling of combustion becomes increasingly important, so do chemical kinetic mechanisms for methane combustion. Kinetic mechanisms of different complexity exist, and the aim of this study is to review commonly used detailed, reduced, and global mechanisms of importance for CFD of methane combustion. In this review, procedures of relevance to model development are outlined. Simulations of zero and one-dimensional configurations have been performed over a wide range of conditions, including addition of H2, CO2 and H2O, and the results are used in a final recommendation about the use of the different mechanisms. The aim of this review is to put focus on the importance of an informed choice of kinetic mechanism to obtain accurate results at a reasonable computational cost. It is shown that for flame simulations, a reduced mechanism with only 42 irreversible reactions gives excellent agreement with experimental data, using only 5% of the computational time as compared to the widely used GRI-Mech 3.0. The reduced mechanisms are highly suitable for flame simulations, while for ignition they tend to react too slow, giving longer than expected ignition delay time. For combustible mixtures with addition of hydrogen, carbon dioxide, or water, the detailed as well as reduced mechanisms generally show as good performance as for the corresponding simulations of pure methane/air mixtures.
Inflammatory and Immune Disorders Associated with Myelodysplastic Syndromes
Authors: Jachiet Vincent , Fenaux Pierre , Sevoyan Anna , Hakobyan Yervand , Ades Lionel , Fain Olivier , Mekinian Arsène ,   on behalf of the MINHEMON and GFM
Published: May 2021

Systemic auto-inflammatory or autoimmune diseases (SIADs) develop in up to a quarter of patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) or chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML). With or without the occurrence of SIADs, the distribution of MDS subtypes and the international or CMML-specific prognostic scoring systems have been similar between MDS/CMML patients. Moreover, various SIADs have been described in association with MDS, ranging from limited clinical manifestations to systemic diseases affecting multiple organs. Defined clinical entities including systemic vasculitis, connective tissue diseases, inflammatory arthritis and neutrophilic diseases are frequently reported; however, unclassified or isolated organ impairment can also be seen. Although the presence of SIADs does not impact the overall survival nor disease progression to acute myeloid leukemia, they can help with avoiding steroid dependence and make associated adverse events of immunosuppressive drugs challenging. While therapies using steroids and immunosuppressive treatment remain the backbone of first-line treatment, increasing evidence suggests that MDS specific therapy (hypomethylating agents) and sparing steroids may be effective in treating such complications based on their immunomodulatory effect. The aim of this review was to analyze the epidemiological, pathophysiological, clinical and therapeutic factors of systemic inflammatory and immune disorders associated with MDS.
Autophagy Induction by Trichodermic Acid Attenuates Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress-Mediated Apoptosis in Colon Cancer Cells
Authors: Qu Junyan , Zeng Cheng , Zou Tingting , Chen Xu , Yang Xiaolong , Lin Zhenghong
Published: May 2021

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third leading malignant tumor in the world, which has high morbidity and mortality. In this study we found that trichodermic acid (TDA), a secondary metabolite isolated from the plant endophytic fungus Penicillium ochrochloronthe with a variety of biological and pharmacological activities, exhibited the antitumor effects on colorectal cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. Our results showed that TDA inhibited the proliferation of colon cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner. TDA induces sustained endoplasmic reticulum stress, which triggers apoptosis through IRE1α/XBP1 and PERK/ATF4/CHOP pathways. In addition, we found that TDA mediated endoplasmic reticulum stress also induces autophagy as a protective mechanism. Moreover, combined treatment of TDA with autophagy inhibitors significantly enhanced its anticancer effect. In conclusion, our results indicated that TDA can induce ER stress and autophagy mediated apoptosis, suggesting that targeting ER stress and autophagy may be an effective strategy for the treatment of CRC.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Treatment Methods in Achondroplasia: A Review
Authors: Wrobel Wiktoria , Pach Emilia , Ben-Skowronek Iwona
Published: May 2021

Achondroplasia (ACH) is a disease caused by a missense mutation in the FGFR3 (fibroblast growth factor receptor 3) gene, which is the most common cause of short stature in humans. The treatment of ACH is necessary and urgent because untreated achondroplasia has many complications, both orthopedic and neurological, which ultimately lead to disability. This review presents the current and potential pharmacological treatments for achondroplasia, highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of all the drugs that have been demonstrated in human and animal studies in different stages of clinical trials. The article includes the potential impacts of drugs on achondroplasia symptoms other than short stature, including their effects on spinal canal stenosis, the narrowing of the foramen magnum and the proportionality of body structure. Addressing these effects could significantly improve the quality of life of patients, possibly reducing the frequency and necessity of hospitalization and painful surgical procedures, which are currently the only therapeutic options used. The criteria for a good drug for achondroplasia are best met by recombinant human growth hormone at present and will potentially be met by vosoritide in the future, while the rest of the drugs are in the early stages of clinical trials.
Sophisticated Conversations between Chromatin and Chromatin Remodelers, and Dissonances in Cancer
Authors: Clapier Cedric R.
Published: May 2021

The establishment and maintenance of genome packaging into chromatin contribute to define specific cellular identity and function. Dynamic regulation of chromatin organization and nucleosome positioning are critical to all DNA transactions—in particular, the regulation of gene expression—and involve the cooperative action of sequence-specific DNA-binding factors, histone modifying enzymes, and remodelers. Remodelers are molecular machines that generate various chromatin landscapes, adjust nucleosome positioning, and alter DNA accessibility by using ATP binding and hydrolysis to perform DNA translocation, which is highly regulated through sophisticated structural and functional conversations with nucleosomes. In this review, I first present the functional and structural diversity of remodelers, while emphasizing the basic mechanism of DNA translocation, the common regulatory aspects, and the hand-in-hand progressive increase in complexity of the regulatory conversations between remodelers and nucleosomes that accompanies the increase in challenges of remodeling processes. Next, I examine how, through nucleosome positioning, remodelers guide the regulation of gene expression. Finally, I explore various aspects of how alterations/mutations in remodelers introduce dissonance into the conversations between remodelers and nucleosomes, modify chromatin organization, and contribute to oncogenesis.
Ubiquitin-Specific Protease 3 Deubiquitinates and Stabilizes Oct4 Protein in Human Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: Rhie Byung-Ho , Antao Ainsley Mike , Karapurkar Janardhan Keshav , Kim Min-Seong , Jo Won-Jun , Ramakrishna Suresh , Kim Kye-Seong
Published: May 2021

Oct4 is an important mammalian POU family transcription factor expressed by early human embryonic stem cells (hESCs). The precise level of Oct4 governs the pluripotency and fate determination of hESCs. Several post-translational modifications (PTMs) of Oct4 including phosphorylation, ubiquitination, and SUMOylation have been reported to regulate its critical functions in hESCs. Ubiquitination and deubiquitination of Oct4 should be well balanced to maintain the pluripotency of hESCs. The protein turnover of Oct4 is regulated by several E3 ligases through ubiquitin-mediated degradation. However, reversal of ubiquitination by deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) has not been reported for Oct4. In this study, we generated a ubiquitin-specific protease 3 (USP3) gene knockout using the CRISPR/Cas9 system and demonstrated that USP3 acts as a protein stabilizer of Oct4 by deubiquitinating Oct4. USP3 interacts with endogenous Oct4 and co-localizes in the nucleus of hESCs. The depletion of USP3 leads to a decrease in Oct4 protein level and loss of pluripotent morphology in hESCs. Thus, our results show that USP3 plays an important role in controlling optimum protein level of Oct4 to retain pluripotency of hESCs.
Characterization of Three Complete Mitogenomes of Flatidae (Hemiptera: Fulgoroidea) and Compositional Heterogeneity Analysis in the Planthoppers’ Mitochondrial Phylogenomics
Authors: Ai Deqiang , Peng Lingfei , Qin Daozheng , Zhang Yalin
Published: May 2021

Although sequences of mitogenomes have been widely used for investigating phylogenetic relationship, population genetics, and biogeography in many members of Fulgoroidea, only one complete mitogenome of a member of Flatidae has been sequenced. Here, the complete mitogenomes of Cerynia lineola, Cromna sinensis, and Zecheuna tonkinensis are sequenced. The gene arrangements of the three new mitogenomes are consistent with ancestral insect mitogenomes. The strategy of using mitogenomes in phylogenetics remains in dispute due to the heterogeneity in base composition and the possible variation in evolutionary rates. In this study, we found compositional heterogeneity and variable evolutionary rates among planthopper mitogenomes. Phylogenetic analysis based on site-homogeneous models showed that the families (Delphacidae and Derbidae) with high values of Ka/Ks and A + T content tended to fall together at a basal position on the trees. Using a site-heterogeneous mixture CAT + GTR model implemented in PhyloBayes yielded almost the same topology. Our results recovered the monophyly of Fulgoroidea. In this study, we apply the heterogeneous mixture model to the planthoppers’ phylogenetic analysis for the first time. Our study is based on a large sample and provides a methodological reference for future phylogenetic studies of Fulgoroidea.
Kidney Inflammation, Injury and Regeneration 2020
Authors: Baer Patrick C. , Koch Benjamin , Geiger Helmut
Published: May 2021

The kidneys play a vital role in the basic physiological functions of the body [...]
Tumor Suppressive Role of miR-342-5p in Human Chondrosarcoma Cells and 3D Organoids
Authors: Veys Clément , Benmoussa Abderrahim , Contentin Romain , Duchemin Amandine , Brotin Emilie , Lafont Jérôme E. , Saintigny Yannick , Poulain Laurent , Denoyelle Christophe , Demoor Magali , Legendre Florence , Galéra Philippe
Published: May 2021

Chondrosarcomas are malignant bone tumors. Their abundant cartilage-like extracellular matrix and their hypoxic microenvironment contribute to their resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and no effective therapy is currently available. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) may be an interesting alternative in the development of therapeutic options. Here, for the first time in chondrosarcoma cells, we carried out high-throughput functional screening using impedancemetry, and identified five miRNAs with potential antiproliferative or chemosensitive effects on SW1353 chondrosarcoma cells. The cytotoxic effects of miR-342-5p and miR-491-5p were confirmed on three chondrosarcoma cell lines, using functional validation under normoxia and hypoxia. Both miRNAs induced apoptosis and miR-342-5p also induced autophagy. Western blots and luciferase reporter assays identified for the first time Bcl-2 as a direct target of miR-342-5p, and also Bcl-xL as a direct target of both miR-342-5p and miR-491-5p in chondrosarcoma cells. MiR-491-5p also inhibited EGFR expression. Finally, only miR-342-5p induced cell death on a relevant 3D chondrosarcoma organoid model under hypoxia that mimics the in vivo microenvironment. Altogether, our results revealed the tumor suppressive activity of miR-342-5p, and to a lesser extent of miR-491-5p, on chondrosarcoma lines. Through this study, we also confirmed the potential of Bcl-2 family members as therapeutic targets in chondrosarcomas.
Mitochondrial Retrograde Signaling Contributes to Metabolic Differentiation in Yeast Colonies
Authors: Plocek Vítězslav , Fadrhonc Kristýna , Maršíková Jana , Váchová Libuše , Pokorná Alexandra , Hlaváček Otakar , Wilkinson Derek , Palková Zdena
Published: May 2021

During development of yeast colonies, various cell subpopulations form, which differ in their properties and specifically localize within the structure. Three branches of mitochondrial retrograde (RTG) signaling play a role in colony development and differentiation, each of them activating the production of specific markers in different cell types. Here, aiming to identify proteins and processes controlled by the RTG pathway, we analyzed proteomes of individual cell subpopulations from colonies of strains, mutated in genes of the RTG pathway. Resulting data, along with microscopic analyses revealed that the RTG pathway predominantly regulates processes in U cells, long-lived cells with unique properties, which are localized in upper colony regions. Rtg proteins therein activate processes leading to amino acid biosynthesis, including transport of metabolic intermediates between compartments, but also repress expression of mitochondrial ribosome components, thus possibly contributing to reduced mitochondrial translation in U cells. The results reveal the RTG pathway’s role in activating metabolic processes, important in U cell adaptation to altered nutritional conditions. They also point to the important role of Rtg regulators in repressing mitochondrial activity in U cells.
Inflammasome NLRP3 Potentially Links Obesity-Associated Low-Grade Systemic Inflammation and Insulin Resistance with Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Litwiniuk Anna , Bik Wojciech , Kalisz Małgorzata , Baranowska-Bik Agnieszka
Published: May 2021

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of neurodegenerative dementia. Metabolic disorders including obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) may stimulate amyloid β (Aβ) aggregate formation. AD, obesity, and T2DM share similar features such as chronic inflammation, increased oxidative stress, insulin resistance, and impaired energy metabolism. Adiposity is associated with the pro-inflammatory phenotype. Adiposity-related inflammatory factors lead to the formation of inflammasome complexes, which are responsible for the activation, maturation, and release of the pro-inflammatory cytokines including interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-18 (IL-18). Activation of the inflammasome complex, particularly NLRP3, has a crucial role in obesity-induced inflammation, insulin resistance, and T2DM. The abnormal activation of the NLRP3 signaling pathway influences neuroinflammatory processes. NLRP3/IL-1β signaling could underlie the association between adiposity and cognitive impairment in humans. The review includes a broadened approach to the role of obesity-related diseases (obesity, low-grade chronic inflammation, type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, and enhanced NLRP3 activity) in AD. Moreover, we also discuss the mechanisms by which the NLRP3 activation potentially links inflammation, peripheral and central insulin resistance, and metabolic changes with AD.
Effects of the Water-Based Foaming Process on the Basic and Rheological Properties of Bitumen 70/100
Authors: Iwański Marek , Chomicz-Kowalska Anna , Mazurek Grzegorz , Buczyński Przemysław , Cholewińska Małgorzata , Iwański Mateusz M. , Maciejewski Krzysztof , Ramiączek Piotr
Published: May 2021

The process of water-based foaming of bitumen produces binders that can be incorporated in cold recycled asphalt mixes and pavement upper structural layers made of half-warm mix asphalt prepared at 100–130 °C. During the foaming process, cold water and air act on hot bitumen (160–170 °C), which results in the explosive vaporization of water leading to changes in the binder structure. The impact of foaming on the properties of bitumen 70/100 was evaluated by investigating the binder characteristics before and after foaming. Determination of two foaming parameters, maximum expansion and half-life, was followed by measurements of penetration at 25 °C, softening point, Fraass breaking point, and dynamic viscosity at 60, 90, and 135 °C. Rheological and low-temperature tests were also performed before and after foaming bitumen 70/100. The Bending Beam Rheometer method was applied to determine the low temperature stiffness modulus. A DHR-2 rheometer was used to determine the dynamic modulus and phase angle of the tested binder. The Black and master curves before and after foaming were plotted in the 2S2P1D model and the model parameters were analysed. Analysis of the test results confirmed the effects of the foaming process on the basic, low-temperature, and rheological characteristics of the bitumen.
Enhancing Toughness and Reducing Volumetric Shrinkage for Bis-GMA/TEGDMA Resin Systems by Using Hyperbranched Thiol Oligomer HMDI-6SH
Authors: Yu Biao , He Jingwei , Garoushi Sufyan , Vallittu Pekka K. , Lassila Lippo
Published: May 2021

In order to improve the toughness and reduce polymerization shrinkage of traditional bisphenol A-glycidyl methacrylate (Bis-GMA)/triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) based dental resin system, a hyperbranched thiol oligomer (HMDI-6SH) was synthesized via thiol-isocyanate click reaction using pentaerythritol tetra(3-mercaptopropionate (PETA) and dicyclohexylmethane 4,4′-diisocyanate (HMDI) as raw materials. Then HMDI-6SH was mixed with 1,3,5-Triallyl-1,3,5-Triazine-2,4,6(1H,3H,5H)-Trione (TTT) to prepare thiol-ene monomer systems, which were added into Bis-GMA/TEGDMA resins with different mass ratio from 10 wt% to 40 wt% to serve as anti-shrinking and toughening agent. The physicochemical properties of these thiol-ene-methacrylate ternary resins including functional groups conversion, volumetric shrinkage, flexural properties, water sorption, and water solubility were evaluated. The results showed that the incorporation of HMDI/TTT monomer systems into Bis-GMA/TEGDMA based resin could improve C=C double bond conversion from 62.1% to 82.8% and reduced volumetric shrinkage from 8.53% to 4.92%. When the mass fraction of HMDI/TTT monomer systems in the resins was no more than 20 wt%, the flexural strength of the resin was higher or comparable to Bis-GMA/TEGDMA based resins (p > 0.05). The toughness (it was measured from the stress–strain curves of three-point bending test) of the resins was improved. Water sorption and water solubility tests showed that the hydrophobicity of resin was enhanced with increasing the content of thioester moiety in resin.
Fabrication of Si3N4@Si@Cu Thin Films by RF Sputtering as High Energy Anode Material for Li-Ion Batteries
Authors: Merabet Hocine , De Luna Yannis , Mohamed Khadiga , Bensalah Nasr
Published: May 2021

Silicon and silicon nitride (Si3N4) are some of the most appealing candidates as anode materials for LIBs (Li-ion battery) due to their favorable characteristics: low cost, abundance of Si, and high theoretical capacity. However, these materials have their own set of challenges that need to be addressed for practical applications. A thin film consisting of silicon nitride-coated silicon on a copper current collector (Si3N4@Si@Cu) has been prepared in this work via RF magnetron sputtering (Radio Frequency magnetron sputtering). The anode material was characterized before and after cycling to assess the difference in appearance and composition using XRD (X-ray Powder Diffraction), XPS (X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy), SEM/EDX (Scanning Electron Microscopy/ Energy Dispersive X-Ray Analysis), and TEM (Transmission Electron Microscopy). The effect of the silicon nitride coating on the electrochemical performance of the anode material for LIBs was evaluated against Si@Cu film. It has been found that the Si3N4@Si@Cu anode achieved a higher capacity retention (90%) compared to Si@Cu (20%) after 50 cycles in a half-cell versus Li+/Li, indicating a significant improvement in electrochemical performance. In a full cell, the Si3N4@Si@Cu anode achieved excellent efficiency and acceptable specific capacities, which can be enhanced with further research.
Characteristics of Heart Rate Tracings in Preterm Fetus
Authors: Hurtado-Sánchez Maria F. , Pérez-Melero David , Pinto-Ibáñez Andrea , González-Mesa Ernesto , Mozas-Moreno Juan , Puertas-Prieto Alberto
Published: May 2021

Background and Objectives: Prematurity is currently a serious public health issue worldwide, because of its high associated morbidity and mortality. Optimizing the management of these pregnancies is of high priority to improve perinatal outcomes. One tool frequently used to determine the degree of fetal wellbeing is cardiotocography (CTG). A review of the available literature on fetal heart rate (FHR) monitoring in preterm fetuses shows that studies are scarce, and the evidence thus far is unclear. The lack of reference standards for CTG patterns in preterm fetuses can lead to misinterpretation of the changes observed in electronic fetal monitoring (EFM). The aims of this narrative review were to summarize the most relevant concepts in the field of CTG interpretation in preterm fetuses, and to provide a practical approach that can be useful in clinical practice. Materials and Methods: A MEDLINE search was carried out, and the published articles thus identified were reviewed. Results: Compared to term fetuses, preterm fetuses have a slightly higher baseline FHR. Heart rate is faster in more immature fetuses, and variability is lower and increases in more mature fetuses. Transitory, low-amplitude decelerations are more frequent during the second trimester. Transitory increases in FHR are less frequent and become more frequent and increase in amplitude as gestational age increases. Conclusions: The main characteristics of FHR tracings changes as gestation proceeds, and it is of fundamental importance to be aware of these changes in order to correctly interpret CTG patterns in preterm fetuses.
Treatment of Unstable Occipital Condylar Fractures in Children—A STROBE-Compliant Investigation
Authors: Tomaszewski Ryszard , Gap Artur , Lucyga Magdalena , Rutz Erich , Mayr Johannes M.
Published: May 2021

Background and objectives: Occipital condyle fractures (OCF) occur rarely in children. The choice of treatment is based on the Anderson–Montesano and Tuli classification systems. We evaluated the outcome of unstable OCF in children and adolescents after halo-vest therapy. Materials and Methods: We treated 6 pediatric patients for OCF, including 3 patients (2 girls, 1 boy) with unstable OCF. Among the 3 patients with unstable OCF, 2 patients presented with an Anderson–Montesano type III and Tuli type IIB injury, while 1 patient had an Anderson–Montesano type I fracture (Tuli type IIB) accompanied by a C1 fracture. On admission, the children underwent computed tomography (CT) of the head and cervical spine as well as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the cervical spine. We treated the children diagnosed with unstable OCF with halo-vest immobilization. Before removing the halo vest at the end of therapy, we applied the CT and MRI to confirm OCF consolidation. At follow-up, we rated functionality of the craniocervical junction (CCJ) based on the Neck Disability Index (NDI) and Questionnaire Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36). Results: All children achieved OCF consolidation after halo-vest therapy for a median of 13.0 weeks (range: 12.5–14.0 weeks). CT and MRI at the end of halo-vest therapy showed no signs of C0/C1 subluxation and confirmed the correct consolidation of OCF. The only complication associated with halo-vest therapy was a superficial infection caused by a halo-vest pin. At follow-up, all children exhibited favorable functionality of the CCJ as documented by the NDI score (median: 3 points; range: 3–11 points) and SF-36 score (median: 91 points; range: 64–96 points). Conclusions: In our small case series, halo-vest therapy resulted in good mid-term outcome in terms of OCF consolidation and CCJ functionality. In pediatric patients with suspected cervical spine injuries, we recommend CT and MRI of the CCJ to establish the diagnosis of OCF and confirm stable fracture consolidation before removing the halo vest.
Gravity-Driven Membrane Reactor for Decentralized Wastewater Treatment: Effect of Reactor Configuration and Cleaning Protocol
Authors: Shami Ihtisham Ul Haq , Wu Bing
Published: May 2021

In this study, three gravity-driven membrane (GDM) reactors with flat sheet membrane modules and various biocarriers (synthetic fibers, lava stones, and sands) were operated for municipal wastewater treatment. The effects of water head, periodically cleaning protocol, and operation temperature on the GDM reactor performance were illustrated in terms of membrane performance and water quality. The results indicated that: (1) the cake layer fouling was predominant (>~85%), regardless of reactor configuration and operation conditions; (2) under lower water head, variable water head benefited in achieving higher permeate fluxes due to effective relaxation of the compacted cake layers; (3) the short-term chemical cleaning (30–60 min per 3–4 days) improved membrane performance, especially when additional physical shear force was implemented; (4) the lower temperature had negligible effect on the GDM reactors packed with Icelandic lava stones and sands. Furthermore, the wastewater treatment costs of the three GDM reactors were estimated, ranging between 0.31 and 0.37 EUR/m3, which was greatly lower than that of conventional membrane bioreactors under lower population scenarios. This sheds light on the technical and economic feasibility of biocarrier-facilitated GDM systems for decentralized wastewater treatment in Iceland.
Potential of Beetroot and Blackcurrant Compounds to Improve Metabolic Syndrome Risk Factors
Authors: Haswell Cameron , Ali Ajmol , Page Rachel , Hurst Roger , Rutherfurd-Markwick Kay
Published: May 2021

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a group of metabolic abnormalities, which together lead to increased risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), as well as reduced quality of life. Dietary nitrate, betalains and anthocyanins may improve risk factors for MetS and reduce the risk of development of CHD and T2DM. Beetroot is a rich source of dietary nitrate, and anthocyanins are present in high concentrations in blackcurrants. This narrative review considers the efficacy of beetroot and blackcurrant compounds as potential agents to improve MetS risk factors, which could lead to decreased risk of CHD and T2DM. Further research is needed to establish the mechanisms through which these outcomes may occur, and chronic supplementation studies in humans may corroborate promising findings from animal models and acute human trials.
A Hybrid Device for Enhancing Flotation of Fine Particles by Combining Micro-Bubbles with Conventional Bubbles
Authors: Tsave Polyxeni K. , Kostoglou Margaritis , Karapantsios Thodoris D. , Lazaridis Nikolaos K.
Published: May 2021

Flotation in the mining industry is a very significant separation technique. It is known that fine and ultra-fine particles are difficult to float, leading to losses of valuable minerals, mainly due to their low collision efficiency with bubbles. Flotation of fine particles can be enhanced either by increasing the apparent particle size or by decreasing the bubble size. Literature review reveals that electroflotation resulted in higher recoveries of ultrafine particles as compared with dispersed-air flotation, because electrolytic bubbles are smaller in size. To this end, the best practical approach is to combine conventional air bubbles and micro-bubbles from water electrolysis. Therefore, the design, fabrication, and operation of a bench-scale micro-bubble generator through water electrolysis is proposed. Moreover, this electrolysis unit is adapted in a mechanical Denver-type flotation cell. The resulting hybrid flotation device is capable of producing bubbles within a wide range of diameters. The significance of this process is that micro-bubbles, attached tothe surface of fine particles, facilitate the attachment of conventional-sized bubbles and subsequently increase the flotation recovery of particles. Experimental flotation results so far on the hybrid device indicate the enhancement of fine particle recovery by approximately 10% with the addition of micro-bubbles.