bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mısır:Arpaya Dayalı Rasyonlara Enzim İlavesinin Yumurtlayan Bıldırcınlarda Performans, Yumurta Kalitesi, Serum ve Kemik Mineral İçeriğine Etkisi
Authors: KILIÇ Hatice Nur , OLGUN Osman
Published: October 2020

Bu çalışma mısır yerine arpa kullanılan rasyonlara enzim ilavesinin yumurtlayan bıldırcınlarda performans, yumurta kalitesi ile serum ve kemik mineral seviyesi üzerine etkisini belirlemek için yürütülmüştür. 4 x 2 faktöriyel deneme planında, mısır yerine dört arpa seviyesi (%0, 25, 50 ve 100) ve iki enzim seviyesinin (0 ve 1.0 g/kg) oluşturulduğu 8 muamele, her birinde 5 dişi bıldırcın bulunan 4 tekerrürlü olarak denenmiştir. On haftalık yaşta toplam 160 adet dişi bıldırcın 12 hafta boyunca deneme rasyonları ile yemlenmişlerdir.
Ana faktör olarak rasyon arpa seviyesi yumurtlayan bıldırcınlarda canlı ağırlık değişimini, yumurta verimini, yumurta ağırlığını, yumurta kitlesini, yem tüketimini, yemden yararlanma oranını, kabuk kırılma direncini, kabuk oranı, Haugh birimini, serum fosfor ve çinko seviyelerini ile kemik kalsiyum, manganez ve çinko seviyelerini etkilememiştir (P>0.05). Bıldırcın rasyonlarında mısır yerine arpa kullanımı yumurta kabuk kalınlığını (P<0.05) ve sarı rengini (P<0.01) olumsuz etkilemiştir. Serum kalsiyum (P<0.05), magnezyum (P<0.05) seviyeleri ile kemik fosfor (P<0.05) ve magnezyum (P<0.01) seviyeleri rasyonda arpa kullanımı ile artmıştır. Bıldırcın rasyonlarına enzim ilavesi canlı ağırlık değişimini (P<0.05), kabuk kırılma direncini (P<0.05) ve kabuk oranını (P<0.01) pozitif, sarı rengini ise negatif etkilemiştir (P<0.01). Mısır:arpa ve enzim arasındaki interaksiyonlar sadece yumurta kitlesini (P<0.05) ve sarı rengini (P<0.01) önemli derecede etkilemiştir.
Sonuç olarak, sarı rengindeki olumsuz etkisi tolere edilebilir ise yumurtlayan bıldırcın rasyonlarında mısırın yerine arpa (enzim ilaveli) kullanılabileceği söylenebilir.
Alphabetic Knowledge and Phonological Awareness : A comparison between Malaysian Preschool Children from Public and Private Kindergartens
Authors: Wang Joanna Joo Ying , Lee Julia Ai Cheng
Published: October 2020

Alphabetic knowledge and phonological awareness are essential skills in learning to read. This research examined the level of acquisition on alphabetic knowledge and phonological awareness among 60 preschoolers from private and public preschools in Kuching, Sarawak. The mean age of the children was 5.58. The children were administered letter name and sound knowledge, and letter naming fluency tests to examine their alphabetic knowledge; Comprehensive Test of Phonological Processing and Yopp-Singer Phoneme Segmentation Test to examine their phonological awareness. Higher achievement in alphabetic knowledge and phonological awareness was found among preschoolers from private preschools compared to those from public preschools. This study discusses the implications for practice and the ways teachers could explicitly foster alphabetic knowledge and phonological awareness skills in the classroom.

Keywords: learning to read, alphabetic knowledge, phonological awareness, preschool children.
Design and development of 3D Face Mask Clips for Hijab
Authors: Khan Rehman Ullah , Shminan Ahmad Sofian , Oon Yin Bee , Jamaludin Iswandy
Published: October 2020

The world has suffered a critical shortage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) during the pandemic of COVID19 for medical staffs, the front liners. Like the whole world, Malaysia also imposed the stay-at-home and Movement Control Order (MCO) to break the chain of infections and flatten the curve of cases. The supply of PPE became a challenge during the lock down. There have been joined efforts from various parties stepping up, with different ways to help the production process of these key equipment but mostly focus on PPTs for male. Another challenge was face mask for Muslims leady health workers who wear hijab.  This paper is about how to overcome these challenges and designed a novel face mask clip for hijab, using 3D printing.  The clips were tested in a local hospital. The results show that the clips are very effective and easy to use. 

Keywords: Covid-19; Personal protective equipment; Pandemic; Movement Control Order; 3D Face mask
PROJECT BASED LEARNING TO ENHANCE CREATIVE THINKING SKILLS OF THE NON-SCIENCE STUDENTS
Authors: Yamin Y , Permanasari Anna , Redjeki S , Sopandi W
Published: October 2020

This study was aimed to describe students' creative thinking skills in integrated science learning on the theme of water pollution using project-based learning. The method used in this study was a descriptive method. The population and sample in this study were non-science students at a university in Bogor. The instruments used in this study were tests of creative thinking skills, peer assessment and product creativity assessment rubrics. The results showed that the average test score of students' creative thinking skills was 89% (very good category). The achievement of peer assessment indicators is 87%, while the achievement of product creativity indicators is 88%. Thus, it can be concluded that project-based integrated science learning can be used to improve the creative thinking skills of non-science students
OPTIMALISASI PELAKSANAAN SUPERVISI HANDOVER KEPERAWATAN PADA RUMAH SAKIT DI JAKARTA SELATAN
Authors: Wigiarti Sri Herni , Yetti Krisna , Mashudi Dudi
Published: October 2020

Handover keperawatan di rumah sakit dapat berpengaruh terhadap hasil pelayanan kesehatan pasien. Handover merupakan bagian dari proses asuhan keperawatan sebagai pertukaran informasi pasien antar perawat, memastikan kontinuitas perawatan pasien, keselamatan pasien. Kepala ruangan memiliki fungsi melakukan supervisi pada proses handover, sehingga dapat meningkatkan kepedulian terhadap kualitas keperawatan, dan berpegang kepada etika keperawatan. Belum optimalnya pelaksanaan supervisi handover dianalisa menggunakan fishbone diagram untuk mendapatkan akar masalah/rootcause. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah menganalisis pelaksanaan supervisi handover keperawatan pada rumah sakit di Jakarta Selatan. Metodologi yang digunakan dengan metode wawancara, observasi, pengisian kuesioner dan telaah dokumen rekam medik pasien. Optimalisasi kualitas supervisi handover perawat dengan melakukan evaluasi pelaksanaan handover, memerlukan instrumen sesuai dengan standar prosedur operasional atauÂ  standar akreditasi rumah sakit. Kepala ruangan perlu melakukan sosialisasi prosedur dan supervisi berkala pelaksanaan handover keperawatan, komitmen bersama mendukung program ini, menggunakan instrumen penilaian handover yang seragam, adanya audit dan evaluasi dari manajemen bidang keperawatan.
GAMBARAN TINGKAT DEPRESI, KECEMASAN DAN STRESS PADA MAHASISWA JUNIOR KEPERAWATAN DI INDONESIA
Authors: Hendra Agus , Heryanti Bella Risma , Perdani Agni Laili
Published: October 2020

Stress adalah masalah kesehatan yang akan menjadi epidemik global pada abad ke-21. Mahasiswa keperawatan adalah kelompok masyarakat yang rentan akan stress dan dipicu oleh faktor akademik, klinik dan lingkungan. Dinamika perubahan belajar dan perbedaan proses akademik dari sekolah ke perguruan tinggi dan hal tersebut menjadi sumber utama stress pada mahasiswa baru. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk menggambarkan tingkatan depresi, kecemasan, dan stress pada mahasiswa junior keperawatan.. Penelitian ini adalah cross-sectional study yang dilakukan di salah satu institusi keperawatan di Indonesia pada bulan Desember-January 2019. Teknik sampling yang digunakan adalah convenience sampling dengan Instrumen DASS (Depression Anxiety Stress Scale). Pengambilan data menggunakan online questionnaire form dan teknik analisa univariate data dengan SPSS Version 25. Rata-rata usia pada tahap remaja 19.13 (SDÂ±0.59), 82% perempuan dan 80.8% tinggal bersama orang tua kandung (p < 0.000). Rata-rata tingkat depresi 16.24 (SDÂ±9.71), kecemasan 13.71 (SDÂ±0.59) atau berada pada kategori sedang dan rata-rata tingkat stress adalah 12.49 (SDÂ±10.18) (p < 0.000). Total 25 (32.1%), 28 (35.9%) dan 52 (66.7%) responden pada depresi, kecemasan dan stress adalah normal. Depresi - stress berada pada rata-rata tertinggi 1.14 (SD Â± 0.89) dan terendah adalah kecemasan - stress (SDÂ±0.68). Identifikasi data awal tingkat stress, depresi dan kecemasan pada mahasiswa junior dibutuhkan oleh institusi sebagai upaya dalam melakukan manajemen stress. Tindakan kolaboratif bersama dapat diupayakan oleh berbagai pihak meliputi pelatihan teknik relaksasi, pengenalan strategi koping efektif ataupun penyediaan sumber-sumber yang dapat digunakan oleh mahasiswa sebagai upaya institusi dalam menciptakan proses akademik dan praktik klinis yang baik.Â
A Clustering Routing Algorithm Based on Improved Ant Colony Optimization Algorithms for Underwater Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Xiao Xingxing , Huang Haining
Published: October 2020

Because of the complicated underwater environment, the efficiency of data transmission from underwater sensor nodes to a sink node (SN) is faced with great challenges. Aiming at the problem of energy consumption in underwater wireless sensor networks (UWSNs), this paper proposes an energy-efficient clustering routing algorithm based on an improved ant colony optimization (ACO) algorithm. In clustering routing algorithms, the network is divided into many clusters, and each cluster consists of one cluster head node (CHN) and several cluster member nodes (CMNs). This paper optimizes the CHN selection based on the residual energy of nodes and the distance factor. The selected CHN gathers data sent by the CMNs and transmits them to the sink node by multiple hops. Optimal multi-hop paths from the CHNs to the SN are found by an improved ACO algorithm. This paper presents the ACO algorithm through the improvement of the heuristic information, the evaporation parameter for the pheromone update mechanism, and the ant searching scope. Simulation results indicate the high effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed algorithm in reducing the energy consumption, prolonging the network lifetime, and decreasing the packet loss ratio.
An Efficient Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) Recognition and Characterization Using End-to-End Transfer Learning
Authors: Ujan Sahar , Navidi Neda , Jr Landry Rene
Published: October 2020

Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) detection and characterization play a critical role in ensuring the security of all wireless communication networks. Advances in Machine Learning (ML) have led to the deployment of many robust techniques dealing with various types of RFI. To sidestep an unavoidable complicated feature extraction step in ML, we propose an efficient Deep Learning (DL)-based methodology using transfer learning to determine both the type of received signals and their modulation type. To this end, the scalogram of the received signals is used as the input of the pretrained convolutional neural networks (CNN), followed by a fully-connected classifier. This study considers a digital video stream as the signal of interest (SoI), transmitted in a real-time satellite-to-ground communication using DVB-S2 standards. To create the RFI dataset, the SoI is combined with three well-known jammers namely, continuous-wave interference (CWI), multi- continuous-wave interference (MCWI), and chirp interference (CI). This study investigated four well-known pretrained CNN architectures, namely, AlexNet, VGG-16, GoogleNet, and ResNet-18, for the feature extraction to recognize the visual RFI patterns directly from pixel images with minimal preprocessing. Moreover, the robustness of the proposed classifiers is evaluated by the data generated at different signal to noise ratios (SNR).
Tribological and Emission Behavior of Novel Friction Materials
Authors: Gomes Nogueira Ana Paula , Carlevaris Davide , Menapace Cinzia , Straffelini Giovanni
Published: October 2020

The tribological behavior and the related airborne particles emission of three copper-free automotive friction materials are investigated. The tests were conducted using a pin-on-disc tribometer equipped with a specifically designed clean-enclosure chamber for the emission measurement. Particle number concentration from particle size 0.3 µm up to 10 µm and the mass of emitted particles between 1 µm to 10 µm were measured. Particular emphasis was given to the chemical composition of the bulk materials, the friction layers and the emissions, in order to explain the acting wear mechanisms, and the recorded emission of airborne particles. The results indicate that the recorded emissions do not correlate with the friction coefficient and the wear rates, since the wear mechanisms exert a different influence on the tribological and emission behavior of the materials under study.
Recent Advances of Air Pollution Studies in Italy
Authors: Donateo Antonio , Villani Maria Gabriella , Feudo Teresa Lo , Chianese Elena
Published: October 2020

This special issue collects 18 original and review articles dealing with dierent recent advances inair pollution studies in Italy, from urban to rural environments, from model to experimental approaches....
The Effect of Tactile Training on Sustained Attention in Young Adults
Authors: Luo Yu , Zhang Jicong
Published: October 2020

Sustained attention is crucial for higher-order cognition and real-world activities. The idea that tactile training improves sustained attention is appealing and has clinical significance. The aim of this study was to explore whether tactile training could improve visual sustained attention. Using 128-channel electroencephalography (EEG), we found that participants with tactile training outperformed non-trainees in the accuracy and calculation efficiency measured by the Math task. Furthermore, trainees demonstrated significantly decreased omission error measured by the sustained attention to response task (SART). We also found that the improvements in behavioral performance were associated with parietal P300 amplitude enhancements. EEG source imaging analyses revealed stronger brain activation among the trainees in the prefrontal and sensorimotor regions at P300. These results suggest that the tactile training can improve sustained attention in young adults, and the improved sustained attention following training may be due to more effective attentional resources allocation. Our findings also indicate the use of a noninvasive tactile training paradigm to improve cognitive functions (e.g., sustained attention) in young adults, potentially leading to new training and rehabilitative protocols.
An All-In-One Transcriptome-Based Assay to Identify Therapy-Guiding Genomic Aberrations in Nonsmall Cell Lung Cancer Patients
Authors: Wei Jiacong , Rybczynska Anna A. , Meng Pei , Terpstra Martijn , Saber Ali , Sietzema Jantine , Timens Wim , Schuuring Ed , Hiltermann T. Jeroen N. , Groen Harry. J.M. , van der Wekken Anthonie , van den Berg Anke , Kok Klaas
Published: October 2020

The number of genomic aberrations known to be relevant in making therapeutic decisions for non-small cell lung cancer patients has increased in the past decade. Multiple molecular tests are required to reliably establish the presence of these aberrations, which is challenging because available tissue specimens are generally small. To optimize diagnostic testing, we developed a transcriptome-based next-generation sequencing (NGS) assay based on single primed enrichment technology. We interrogated 11 cell lines, two patient-derived frozen biopsies, nine pleural effusion, and 29 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples. All clinical samples were selected based on previously identified mutations at the DNA level in EGFR, KRAS, ALK, PIK3CA, BRAF, AKT1, MET, NRAS, or ROS1 at the DNA level, or fusion genes at the chromosome level, or by aberrant protein expression of ALK, ROS1, RET, and NTRK1. A successful analysis is dependent on the number of unique reads and the RNA quality, as indicated by the DV200 value. In 27 out of 51 samples with >50 K unique reads and a DV200 >30, all 19 single nucleotide variants (SNVs)/small insertions and deletions (INDELs), three MET exon 14 skipping events, and 13 fusion gene transcripts were detected at the RNA level, giving a test accuracy of 100%. In summary, this lung-cancer-specific all-in-one transcriptome-based assay for the simultaneous detection of mutations and fusion genes is highly sensitive.
Fine Characterization of Natural SiO2-Doped Catalyst Derived from Mussel Shell with Potential Photocatalytic Performance for Organic Dyes
Authors: Wang Zhen , Xia Liping , Chen Jinlong , Ji Lili , Zhou Yarui , Wang Yaning , Cai Lu , Guo Jian , Song Wendong
Published: October 2020

In this work, a SiO2-doped natural photocatalyst derived from waste mussel shell (HAS) was prepared by acidification. The as-prepared sample was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES), field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), UV-visible diffuse-reflectance spectrum (UV-vis DRS), and Differential scanning and thermogravimetric analyses (DTA/TGA). The results exhibited that HAS was mesopores nanomaterial consisting of uneven arranged rod-like structure, the dominant component of HAS was SiO2 with a large number of hydroxyl groups, and a variety of transition metals uniformly distributed in HAS. Rhodamine B (RhB) and methylene blue (MB) removal efficiencies (equal to 92.59% and 99.14%, respectively) were observed under the HAS presence when exposed to the visible light. The degradation products were analyzed using liquid Chromatograph Mass Spectrometer (LC-MS) and Total Organic Carbon (TOC), among which, MB was degraded by demethylation and deamination, and RhB was degraded by N-deethylation and conjugate structure destruction. After four successive recycles, the removal efficiency of RhB and MB are still reach 86.103% and 75.844%. This study indicated that the mussel shells might be suggested as a novel natural photocatalyst in the application of dye wastewater treatment.
Influence of Gaseous Hydrogen Addition on Initiation of Rotating Detonation in Liquid Fuel–Air Mixtures
Authors: Kindracki Jan , Wacko Krzysztof , Woźniak Przemysław , Siatkowski Stanisław , Mężyk Łukasz
Published: October 2020

Hydrogen is the most common molecule in the universe. It is an excellent fuel for thermal engines: piston, turbojet, rocket, and, going forward, in thermonuclear power plants. Hydrogen is currently used across a range of industrial applications including propulsion systems, e.g., cars and rockets. One obstacle to expanding hydrogen use, especially in the transportation sector, is its low density. This paper explores hydrogen as an addition to liquid fuel in the detonation chamber to generate thermal energy for potential use in transportation and generation of electrical energy. Experiments with liquid kerosene, hexane, and ethanol with the addition of gaseous hydrogen were conducted in a modern rotating detonation chamber. Detonation combustion delivers greater thermal efficiency and reduced NOx emission. Since detonation propagates about three orders of magnitude faster than deflagration, the injection, evaporation, and mixing with air must be almost instantaneous. Hydrogen addition helps initiate the detonation process and sustain continuous work of the chamber. The presented work proves that the addition of gaseous hydrogen to a liquid fuel–air mixture is well suited to the rotating detonation process, making combustion more effective and environmentally friendly.
Energy Analysis and Exergy Optimization of Photovoltaic-Thermal Collector
Authors: Kallio Sonja , Siroux Monica
Published: October 2020

A photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) collector is a solar-based micro-cogeneration system which generates simultaneously heat and power for buildings. The novelty of this paper is to conduct energy and exergy analysis on PVT collector performance under two different European climate conditions. The performance of the PVT collector is compared to a photovoltaic (PV) panel. Finally, the PVT design is optimized in terms of thermal and electrical exergy efficiencies. The optimized PVT designs are compared to the PV panel performance as well. The main focus is to find out if the PVT is still competitive with the PV panel electrical output, after maximizing its thermal exergy efficiency. The PVT collector is modelled into Matlab/Simulink to evaluate its performance under varying weather conditions. The PV panel is modelled with the CARNOT toolbox library. The optimization is conducted using Matlab gamultiobj-function based on the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm-II (NSGA-II). The results indicated 7.7% higher annual energy production in Strasbourg. However, the exergy analysis revealed a better quality of thermal energy in Tampere with 72.9% higher thermal exergy production. The electrical output of the PVT is higher than from the PV during the summer months. The thermal exergy- driven PVT design is still competitive compared to the PV panel electrical output.
The Comparative Study on the Li-S and Li-ion Batteries Cooperating with the Photovoltaic Array
Authors: Siczek Krystian , Siczek Krzysztof , Piersa Piotr , Adrian Łukasz , Szufa Szymon , Obraniak Andrzej , Kubiak Przemysław , Zakrzewicz Wojciech , Bogusławski Grzegorz
Published: October 2020

The stationary photovoltaic array can be used to charge the different vehicle batteries and, in parallel, be used as a power source for the utility grid or standalone devices placed such as in campers. The main objective of the study was to compare chosen electrical characteristics of two assemblies with each containing the same PV array, boost converter and inverter, and a different battery, such as the Li-S one and the Li-ion one, respectively. Differences occurring during modelling of Li-ion and Li-S batteries were discussed. The model of the chosen photovoltaic array was used during analysis. The models based on electrical equivalent circuits for Li-ion battery and of Li-S battery were utilized during calculations. The models of the boost converter and boost inverter of known topology parameters were utilized during simulations. In the chosen performances (courses of voltages and currents versus time) obtained from the simulation of the sets composed of the Li-S battery cooperating with the boost inverter or the boost converter, only small differences or no differences occurred when compared to the case of the Li-ion battery.
The Synthesis and Electrochemical Performance of Si Composite with Hollow Carbon Microtubes by the Carbonization of Milkweed from Nature as Anode Template for Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Chung Eun Hyuk , Kim Jong Pil , Kim Hyun Gyu , Chung Jae-Min , Lee Sei-Jin , Bae Jong-Seong , Jeong Euh Duck
Published: October 2020

It has been reported that improving electrical conductivity and maintaining stable structure during discharge/charge process are challenge for Si to be used as an anode for lithium ion batteries (LIB). To address this problem, milkweed (MW) was carbonized to prepare hollow carbon microtubes (HCMT) derived from biomass as an anode template for LIB. In order to improve electrical conductivity, various materials such as chitosan (CTS), agarose, and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) are used as carbon source (C1, C2, and C3) by carbonization. Carbon coated HCMT@Si composits, HCMT@Si@C1, HCMT@Si@C1@C2, and HCMT@Si@C1@C3, have been successfully synthesized. Changes in structure and crystallinity of HCMT@Si composites were characterized by using X-ray diffraction (XRD). Specific surface area for samples was calculated by using BET (Brunauer–Emmett–Teller). Also, pore size and particle size were obtained by particle and pore size analysis system. The surface morphology was evaluated using high resolution scanning electron microscopy (HR-SEM), Field Emission transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The thermal properties of HCMT@Si composites were analyzed by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Our research was performed to study the synthesis and electrochemical performance of Si composite with HCMT by the carbonization of natural micro hollow milkweed to form an inner space. After carbonization at 900 °C for 2 h in N2 flow, inner diameter of HCMT obtained was about 10 μm. The electrochemical tests indicate that HCMT@Si@C1@C3 exhibits discharge capacity of 932.18 mAh/g at 0.5 A/g after 100 cycles.
Thin Solid Film Electrolyte and Its Impact on Electrode Polarization in Solid Oxide Fuel Cells Studied by Three-Dimensional Microstructure-Scale Numerical Simulation
Authors: Prokop Tomasz A. , Brus Grzegorz , Kimijima Shinji , Szmyd Janusz S.
Published: October 2020

In this work, a three-dimensional microstructure-scale model of a Solid Oxide Fuel Cell’s Positive-Electrolyte-Negative assembly is applied for the purpose of investigating the impact of decreasing the electrolyte thickness on the magnitude, and the composition of electrochemical losses generated within the cell. Focused-Ion-Beam Scanning Electron Microscopy reconstructions are used to construct a computational domain, in which charge transport equations are solved. Butler–Volmer model is used to compute local reaction rates, and empirical relationships are used to obtain local conductivities. The results point towards three-dimensional nature of transport phenomena in thin electrolytes, and electrode-electrolyte interfaces.
Differential Regulation of Anthocyanins in Cerasus humilis Fruit Color Revealed by Combined Transcriptome and Metabolome Analysis
Authors: Ji Xiaolong , Ren Jing , Lang Shaoyu , Wang Di , Zhu Liwei , Song Xingshun
Published: October 2020

Coloring is an important appearance quality of fruit. In order to evaluate the relationship between metabolites and fruit color, we analyzed the metabolites and transcriptional profiles of two different Cerasus humilis cultivars: “RF” (cv. Zhangwu, red fruit) and “YF” (cv. Nongda No.5, yellow fruit). The results of identification and quantification of metabolites showed that there were significant differences in the contents of 11 metabolites between RF and YF. Transcriptomics was used to analyze the expression patterns of genes related to the anthocyanin biosynthesis pathway, and subsequently, the regulation network of anthocyanin biosynthesis was established to explore their relationship with color formation. QRT-PCR, performed for 12 key genes, showed that the expression profiles of the differentially expressed genes were consistent with the results of the transcriptome data. A co-expression analysis revealed that the late genes were significantly positively correlated with most of the different metabolites. The results of the study provide a new reference for improving the fruit color of Cerasus humilis in the future.
The Canonical Wnt Pathway as a Key Regulator in Liver Development, Differentiation and Homeostatic Renewal
Authors: Wild Sebastian L. , Elghajiji Aya , Grimaldos Rodriguez Carmen , Weston Stephen D. , Burke Zoë D. , Tosh David
Published: October 2020

The canonical Wnt (Wnt/β-catenin) signalling pathway is highly conserved and plays a critical role in regulating cellular processes both during development and in adult tissue homeostasis. The Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway is vital for correct body patterning and is involved in fate specification of the gut tube, the primitive precursor of liver. In adults, the Wnt/β-catenin pathway is increasingly recognised as an important regulator of metabolic zonation, homeostatic renewal and regeneration in response to injury throughout the liver. Herein, we review recent developments relating to the key role of the pathway in the patterning and fate specification of the liver, in the directed differentiation of pluripotent stem cells into hepatocytes and in governing proliferation and zonation in the adult liver. We pay particular attention to recent contributions to the controversy surrounding homeostatic renewal and proliferation in response to injury. Furthermore, we discuss how crosstalk between the Wnt/β-catenin and Hedgehog (Hh) and hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) pathways works to maintain liver homeostasis. Advancing our understanding of this pathway will benefit our ability to model disease, screen drugs and generate tissue and organ replacements for regenerative medicine.
Comparison of the Intrinsic Foot Muscle Activities between Therapeutic and Three-Dimensional Foot-Ankle Exercises in Healthy Adults: An Explanatory Study
Authors: Park Du-Jin , Hwang Young-In
Published: October 2020

Background: In recent years, a three-dimensional ankle exercise has been proposed as a practice for strengthening the intrinsic foot muscles, however this topic still requires further research. This study aimed to compare the activities of the intrinsic muscles in healthy participants during 3D foot–ankle exercises, namely, short foot (SF), and toe spread out (TSO). Methods: Prior to the experiment, 16 healthy adults were trained on how to perform SF, TSO, and 3D foot–ankle exercises for an hour. Once all participants passed the foot–ankle exercise performance test, we randomly measured the activity of the intrinsic foot muscles using electromyography while the patients were performing foot–ankle exercises. Results: The abductor hallucis (AbH), extensor hallucis longus (EHL), and flexor hallucis brevis (FHB) activities showed significant differences among the exercises for intrinsic foot muscle strengthening (p < 0.01). Additionally, the AbH/AdH (adductor hallucis) ratio showed significant differences among the exercises for strengthening the intrinsic foot muscles (p < 0.01). Conclusions: Our results showed that the 3D extension exercise is as effective as the therapeutic exercise in terms of the AbH and FHB activities, and the AbH/AdH ratio. On the contrary, the 3D flexion exercise showed superiority in terms of the EHL activity.
Characteristics of Cancer Patients in the World Trade Center Environmental Health Center
Authors: Durmus Nedim , Shao Yongzhao , Arslan Alan A. , Zhang Yian , Pehlivan Sultan , Fernandez-Beros Maria-Elena , Umana Lisette , Corona Rachel , Smyth-Giambanco Sheila , Abbott Sharon A. , Reibman Joan
Published: October 2020

The destruction of the World Trade Center (WTC) towers on 11 September 2001 released many tons of aerosolized dust and smoke with potential for carcinogenic exposures to community members as well as responders. The WTC Environmental Health Center (WTC EHC) is a surveillance and treatment program for a diverse population of community members (“Survivors”), including local residents and workers, present in the NYC disaster area on 9/11 or in the days or weeks following. We report a case series of cancers identified in the WTC EHC as of 31 December 2019. Descriptive characteristics are presented for 2561 cancer patients (excluding non-melanoma skin cancer) and 5377 non-cancer WTC-EHC participants who signed informed consent. We identified a total of 2999 cancer diagnoses in 2561 patients: 2534 solid tumors (84.5%) and 465 lymphoid and hematopoietic tissue cancers (15.5%) with forty-one different cancer types. We describe the distribution, frequency, median age of cancer diagnosis and median latency from 9/11 by cancer site. In addition to common cancer types, rare cancers, including male breast cancers and mesotheliomas have been identified. The current study is the first report on cancer characteristics of enrollees at WTC EHC, a federally designated treatment and surveillance program for local community members affected by the 9/11 terrorist attack on the WTC.
Sexual Behaviours and Practices before and after Phase I/II HIV Vaccine Trial: A Qualitative Study among Volunteers in Dar es Salaam Tanzania
Authors: Iseselo Masunga K. , Tarimo Edith A. M. , Sandstrom Eric , Kulane Asli
Published: October 2020

There is limited information about sexual behavior among volunteers who participated in phase I/II human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) vaccine trial. This article describes the sexual behavior, practices before, and after participation in phase I/II HIV vaccine trial in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. We conducted a qualitative descriptive study involving volunteers who participated in the phase I/II vaccine trial between 2007 and 2010. Purposeful sampling was used to recruit potential informants. Twenty-four in-depth interviews were conducted. The audio-recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using a thematic content analysis approach. The findings revealed that before participation in the HIV vaccine trial, informants were engaging in unprotected multiple sexual relationships. After the completion of the HIV vaccine trial, informants reported strengthened marital relationships, increased understanding of safer sexual practices, and HIV testing. However, the informants reported challenges regarding vaccine-induced seropositivity that adversely affected their sexual and marital relationships. Some informants re-engaged in risky sexual practices because they perceived the experimental vaccine was protective. The informants suggested having continued interventions within the community to enhance safer sexual practices. Participation in phase I/II HIV vaccine trials may positively and negatively influence changes in volunteers’ sexual behaviors and practices. The trial interventions appear to improve compliance with safer sexual practices. However, the reported vaccine-induced seropositivity and the perception that experimental vaccines are protective need further appropriate interventions.
“We Will Always Ask Ourselves the Question of How to Feed the Family”: Subsistence Farmers’ Perceptions on Adaptation to Climate Change in Burkina Faso
Authors: Sorgho Raissa , Mank Isabel , Kagoné Moubassira , Souares Aurélia , Danquah Ina , Sauerborn Rainer
Published: October 2020

In West Africa, climate change aggravates subsistence farmers’ vulnerability to weather variability to sustain their agricultural and nutritional requirements. For successful adaptation policies, in-depth understanding of farmers’ perceptions about climate change, agriculture, and adaptation strategies is essential. This qualitative study in rural Burkina Faso characterized farmers’ perceptions and knowledge through in-depth interviews. The study enumerated the barriers, possibilities, strategies/practices, and support sources of farmers. There was awareness but limited understanding of climate change amongst farmers. Those unable to adapt, faced increased health difficulties, specifically regarding nutrition and mental health. Farmers could implement some dietary and agricultural adaptation strategies (reduce meal size, frequency and variety, preemptive purchase of cereals, multi-cropping, crop rotation, modified seeds) but were unable to implement others (soil rehabilitation, water management). Barriers to implementation comprised financial and time constraints, material and labor shortages, and inaccessible information. Farmers did not understand, trust or utilize meteorological services, but appreciated and relied on agricultural extension services. They reported that social and governmental support was sporadic and inconsistent. This study uncovers the following targets for climate change adaptation policies in rural Burkina Faso: promoting meteorological services, expanding agricultural extension services, increasing access to financial resources, and framing sustainable adaptation within national development goals.
Strategies to Connect Low-Income Communities with the Proposed Sewerage Network of the Dhaka Sanitation Improvement Project, Bangladesh: A Qualitative Assessment of the Perspectives of Stakeholders
Authors: Alam Mahbub-Ul , Sharior Fazle , Ferdous Sharika , Ahsan Atik , Ahmed Tanvir , Afrin Ayesha , Sarker Supta , Akand Farhana , Archie Rownak Jahan , Hasan Kamrul , Renouf Rosie , Drabble Sam , Norman Guy , Rahman Mahbubur , Tidwell James B.
Published: October 2020

In Bangladesh, approximately 31% of urban residents are living without safely managed sanitation, the majority of whom are slum residents. To improve the situation, Dhaka Water Supply and Sewerage Authority (DWASA) is implementing the Dhaka Sanitation Improvement Project (DSIP), mostly funded by the World Bank. This study assessed the challenges and opportunities of bringing low-income communities (LICs) under a sewerage connection within the proposed sewerage network plan by 2025. We conducted nine key-informant interviews from DWASA and City Corporation, and 23 focus-group discussions with landlords, tenants, and Community Based Organisations (CBOs) from 16 LICs near the proposed catchment area. To achieve connections, LICs would require improved toilet infrastructures and have to be connected to main roads. Construction of large communal septic tanks is also required where individual toilet connections are difficult. To encourage connection in LICs, income-based or area-based subsidies were recommended. For financing maintenance, respondents suggested monthly fee collection for management of the infrastructure by dividing bills equally among sharing households, or by users per household. Participants also suggested the government’s cooperation with development-partners/NGOs to ensure sewerage connection construction, operation, and maintenance and prerequisite policy changes such as assuring land tenure.
Protective Effects of Simvastatin on Endotoxin-Induced Acute Kidney Injury through Activation of Tubular Epithelial Cells’ Survival and Hindering Cytochrome C-Mediated Apoptosis
Authors: Nežić Lana , Škrbić Ranko , Amidžić Ljiljana , Gajanin Radoslav , Milovanović Zoran , Nepovimova Eugenie , Kuča Kamil , Jaćević Vesna
Published: October 2020

Increasing evidence suggests that apoptosis of tubular cells and renal inflammation mainly determine the outcome of sepsis-associated acute kidney injury (AKI). The study aim was to investigate the molecular mechanism involved in the renoprotective effects of simvastatin in endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide, LSP)-induced AKI. A sepsis model was established by intraperitoneal injection of a single non-lethal LPS dose after short-term simvastatin pretreatment. The severity of the inflammatory injury was expressed as renal damage scores (RDS). Apoptosis of tubular cells was detected by Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP Nick End Labeling (TUNEL assay) (apoptotic DNA fragmentation, expressed as an apoptotic index, AI) and immunohistochemical staining for cleaved caspase-3, cytochrome C, and anti-apoptotic Bcl-xL and survivin. We found that endotoxin induced severe renal inflammatory injury (RDS = 3.58 ± 0.50), whereas simvastatin dose-dependently prevented structural changes induced by LPS. Furthermore, simvastatin 40 mg/kg most profoundly attenuated tubular apoptosis, determined as a decrease of cytochrome C, caspase-3 expression, and AIs (p  <  0.01 vs. LPS). Conversely, simvastatin induced a significant increase of Bcl-XL and survivin, both in the strong inverse correlations with cleaved caspase-3 and cytochrome C. Our study indicates that simvastatin has cytoprotective effects against LPS-induced tubular apoptosis, seemingly mediated by upregulation of cell-survival molecules, such as Bcl-XL and survivin, and inhibition of the mitochondrial cytochrome C and downstream caspase-3 activation.
TRIM28 Regulates Dlk1 Expression in Adipogenesis
Authors: Lu Hsin-Pin , Lin Chieh-Ju , Chen Wen-Ching , Chang Yao-Jen , Lin Sheng-Wei , Wang Hsin-Hui , Chang Ching-Jin
Published: October 2020

The tripartite motif-containing protein 28 (TRIM28) is a transcription corepressor, interacting with histone deacetylase and methyltransferase complexes. TRIM28 is a crucial regulator in development and differentiation. We would like to investigate its function and regulation in adipogenesis. Knockdown of Trim28 by transducing lentivirus-carrying shRNAs impairs the differentiation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes, demonstrated by morphological observation and gene expression analysis. To understand the molecular mechanism of Trim28-mediated adipogenesis, the RNA-seq was performed to find out the possible Trim28-regulated genes. Dlk1 (delta-like homolog 1) was increased in Trim28 knockdown 3T3-L1 cells both untreated and induced to differentiation. Dlk1 is an imprinted gene and known as an inhibitor of adipogenesis. Further knockdown of Dlk1 in Trim28 knockdown 3T3-L1 would rescue cell differentiation. The epigenetic analysis showed that DNA methylation of Dlk1 promoter and differentially methylated regions (DMRs) was not altered significantly in Trim28 knockdown cells. However, compared to control cells, the histone methylation on the Dlk1 promoter was increased at H3K4 and decreased at H3K27 in Trim28 knockdown cells. Finally, we found Trim28 might be recruited by transcription factor E2f1 to regulate Dlk1 expression. The results imply Trim28-Dlk1 axis is critical for adipogenesis.
The Role of Metabolic Factors in Renal Cancers
Authors: Rysz Jacek , Franczyk Beata , Ławiński Janusz , Olszewski Robert , Gluba-Brzózka Anna
Published: October 2020

An increasing number of evidence indicates that metabolic factors may play an important role in the development and progression of certain types of cancers, including renal cell carcinoma (RCC). This tumour is the most common kidney cancer which accounts for approximately 3–5% of malignant tumours in adults. Numerous studies indicated that concomitant diseases, including diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypertension, as well as obesity, insulin resistance, and lipid disorders, may also influence the prognosis and cancer-specific overall survival. However, the results of studies concerning the impact of metabolic factors on RCC are controversial. It appears that obesity increases the risk of RCC development; however, it may be a favourable factor in terms of prognosis. Obesity is closely related to insulin resistance and the development of diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM2T) since the adipocytes in visceral tissue secrete substances responsible for insulin resistance, e.g., free fatty acids. Interactions between insulin and insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system appear to be of key importance in the development and progression of RCC; however, the exact role of insulin and IGFs in RCC pathophysiology remains elusive. Studies indicated that diabetes increased the risk of RCC, but it might not alter cancer-related survival. The risk associated with a lipid profile is most mysterious, as numerous studies provided conflicting results. Even though large studies unravelling pathomechanisms involved in cancer growth are required to finally establish the impact of metabolic factors on the development, progression, and prognosis of renal cancers, it seems that the monitoring of health conditions, such as diabetes, low body mass index (BMI), and lipid disorders is of high importance in clear-cell RCC.
Pathogenesis of Eosinophilic Esophagitis: A Comprehensive Review of the Genetic and Molecular Aspects
Authors: Ryu Seohyun , Lee Keum Hwa , Tizaoui Kalthoum , Terrazzino Salvatore , Cargnin Sarah , Effenberger Maria , Shin Jae Il , Kronbichler Andreas
Published: October 2020

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a relatively new condition described as an allergic-mediated disease of the esophagus. Clinically, it is characterized by dysphagia, food impaction, and reflux-like symptoms. Multiple genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have been conducted to identify genetic loci associated with EoE. The integration of numerous studies investigating the genetic polymorphisms in EoE and the Mendelian diseases associated with EoE are discussed to provide insights into the genetic risk of EoE, notably focusing on CCL26 and CAPN14. We focus on the genetic loci investigated thus far, and their classification according to whether the function near the loci is known. The pathophysiology of EoE is described by separately presenting the known function of each cell and molecule, with the major contributors being eosinophils, Th2 cells, thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, and interleukin (IL)-13. This review aims to provide detailed descriptions of the genetics and the comprehensive pathophysiology of EoE.
Functions of Cytochrome c Oxidase Assembly Factors
Authors: Watson Shane A. , McStay Gavin P.
Published: October 2020

Cytochrome c oxidase is the terminal complex of eukaryotic oxidative phosphorylation in mitochondria. This process couples the reduction of electron carriers during metabolism to the reduction of molecular oxygen to water and translocation of protons from the internal mitochondrial matrix to the inter-membrane space. The electrochemical gradient formed is used to generate chemical energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate to power vital cellular processes. Cytochrome c oxidase and most oxidative phosphorylation complexes are the product of the nuclear and mitochondrial genomes. This poses a series of topological and temporal steps that must be completed to ensure efficient assembly of the functional enzyme. Many assembly factors have evolved to perform these steps for insertion of protein into the inner mitochondrial membrane, maturation of the polypeptide, incorporation of co-factors and prosthetic groups and to regulate this process. Much of the information about each of these assembly factors has been gleaned from use of the single cell eukaryote Saccharomyces cerevisiae and also mutations responsible for human disease. This review will focus on the assembly factors of cytochrome c oxidase to highlight some of the outstanding questions in the assembly of this vital enzyme complex.
The Impact of Drosophila Awd/NME1/2 Levels on Notch and Wg Signaling Pathways
Authors: Serafini Giulia , Giordani Giorgia , Grillini Luca , Andrenacci Davide , Gargiulo Giuseppe , Cavaliere Valeria
Published: October 2020

Awd, the Drosophila homologue of NME1/2 metastasis suppressors, plays key roles in many signaling pathways. Mosaic analysis of the null awdJ2A4 allele showed that loss of awd gene function blocks Notch signaling and the expression of its target genes including the Wingless (Wg/Wnt1) morphogen. We also showed that RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated awd silencing (awdi) in larval wing disc leads to chromosomal instability (CIN) and to Jun amino-terminal kinases (JNK)-mediated cell death. Here we show that this cell death is independent of p53 activity. Based on our previous finding showing that forced survival of awdi-CIN cells leads to aneuploidy without the hyperproliferative effect, we investigated the Wg expression in awdi wing disc cells. Interestingly, the Wg protein is expressed in its correct dorso-ventral domain but shows an altered cellular distribution which impairs its signaling. Further, we show that RNAi-mediated knock down of awd in wing discs does not affect Notch signaling. Thus, our analysis of the hypomorphic phenotype arising from awd downregulation uncovers a dose-dependent effect of Awd in Notch and Wg signaling.
Soluble Prion Peptide 107–120 Protects Neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y Cells against Oligomers Associated with Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Rezvani Boroujeni Elham , Hosseini Seyed Masoud , Fani Giulia , Cecchi Cristina , Chiti Fabrizio
Published: October 2020

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most prevalent form of dementia and soluble amyloid β (Aβ) oligomers are thought to play a critical role in AD pathogenesis. Cellular prion protein (PrPC) is a high-affinity receptor for Aβ oligomers and mediates some of their toxic effects. The N-terminal region of PrPC can interact with Aβ, particularly the region encompassing residues 95–110. In this study, we identified a soluble and unstructured prion-derived peptide (PrP107–120) that is external to this region of the sequence and was found to successfully reduce the mitochondrial impairment, intracellular ROS generation and cytosolic Ca2+ uptake induced by oligomeric Aβ42 ADDLs in neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells. PrP107–120 was also found to rescue SH-SY5Y cells from Aβ42 ADDL internalization. The peptide did not change the structure and aggregation pathway of Aβ42 ADDLs, did not show co-localization with Aβ42 ADDLs in the cells and showed a partial colocalization with the endogenous cellular PrPC. As a sequence region that is not involved in Aβ binding but in PrP self-recognition, the peptide was suggested to protect against the toxicity of Aβ42 oligomers by interfering with cellular PrPC and/or activating a signaling that protected the cells. These results strongly suggest that PrP107–120 has therapeutic potential for AD.