bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep Reinforcement Learning with Interactive Feedback in a Human–Robot Environment
Authors: Moreira Ithan , Rivas Javier , Cruz Francisco , Dazeley Richard , Ayala Angel , Fernandes Bruno
Published: August 2020

Robots are extending their presence in domestic environments every day, it being more common to see them carrying out tasks in home scenarios. In the future, robots are expected to increasingly perform more complex tasks and, therefore, be able to acquire experience from different sources as quickly as possible. A plausible approach to address this issue is interactive feedback, where a trainer advises a learner on which actions should be taken from specific states to speed up the learning process. Moreover, deep reinforcement learning has been recently widely used in robotics to learn the environment and acquire new skills autonomously. However, an open issue when using deep reinforcement learning is the excessive time needed to learn a task from raw input images. In this work, we propose a deep reinforcement learning approach with interactive feedback to learn a domestic task in a Human–Robot scenario. We compare three different learning methods using a simulated robotic arm for the task of organizing different objects; the proposed methods are (i) deep reinforcement learning (DeepRL); (ii) interactive deep reinforcement learning using a previously trained artificial agent as an advisor (agent–IDeepRL); and (iii) interactive deep reinforcement learning using a human advisor (human–IDeepRL). We demonstrate that interactive approaches provide advantages for the learning process. The obtained results show that a learner agent, using either agent–IDeepRL or human–IDeepRL, completes the given task earlier and has fewer mistakes compared to the autonomous DeepRL approach.
The Attachment of Carbon Nanotubes to Atomic Force Microscopy Tips Using the Pick-Up Method
Authors: Gibson Christopher T.
Published: August 2020

In the last 30 years research has shown that the resolution and reproducibility of data acquired using the atomic force microscope (AFM) can be improved through the development of new imaging modes or by modifying the AFM tip. One method that has been explored since the 1990s is to attach carbon nanotubes (CNT) to AFM tips. CNTs possess a small diameter, high aspect ratio, high strength and demonstrate a high degree of wear resistance. While early indications suggested the widespread use of these types of probes would be routine this has not been the case. A number of methods for CNT attachment have been proposed and explored including chemical vapor deposition (CVD), dielectrophoresis and manual attachment inside a scanning electron microscope (SEM). One of the earliest techniques developed is known as the pick-up method and involves adhering CNTs to AFM tips by simply scanning the AFM tip, in tapping mode, across a CNT-covered surface until a CNT attaches to the AFM tip. In this work we will further investigate how, for example, high force tapping mode imaging can improve the stability and success rate of the pick-up method. We will also discuss methods to determine CNT attachment to AFM probes including changes in AFM image resolution, amplitude versus distance curves and SEM imaging. We demonstrate that the pick-up method can be applied to a range of AFM probes, including contact mode probes with relatively soft spring constants (0.28 N/m). Finally, we demonstrate that the pick-up method can be used to attach CNTs to two AFM tips simultaneously. This is significant as it demonstrates the techniques potential for attaching CNTs to multiple AFM tips which could have applications in AFM-based data storage, devices such as the Snomipede, or making CNT-AFM tips more commercially viable.
COVID 19—A Qualitative Review for the Reorganization of Human Living Environments
Authors: Pierantoni Ilenia , Pierantozzi Mariano , Sargolini Massimo
Published: August 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic is changing people’s habits and behaviors and will reshape city layout and management. Among the different areas of research to be explored, the paper outlines first inputs to use the COVID-19 health crisis as a “window of opportunity” to trigger a sustainable transition of urban living environments, through actions to reshape and territorial organization after COVID-19 and in preparation for future health. Before having a vaccine or medications that ensure a non-lethal disease course, there will be a phase of responsibility and coexistence with the virus. It will be a period whose duration experts are still unable to quantify. What changes in the city organization, behaviors and uses of spaces will we observe in the living environments? Will this lead to a sustainability transition? The paper proposes a qualitative review to investigate how the droplet might travel through the air and how COVID-19 has spread in different urban contexts to outline a comprehensive reflection on the future of the city and strategies for more resilient communities and territories. To achieve this goal, the paper proposes the need of a comparison between skills related to physics aspects, such as fluid dynamics (to assess how droplets spread) and skills related to architectural, urban and territorial design (to evaluate the conditions of indoor and outdoor living environments).
Eucalyptus globulus Essential Oil as a Natural Food Preservative: Antioxidant, Antibacterial and Antifungal Properties In Vitro and in a Real Food Matrix (Orangina Fruit Juice)
Authors: Boukhatem Mohamed Nadjib , Boumaiza Asma , Nada Hanady G. , Rajabi Mehdi , Mousa Shaker A.
Published: August 2020

The potential application of Eucalyptus globulus essential oil (EGEO) as a natural beverage preservative is described in this research. The chemical composition of EGEO was determined using gas chromatography analyses and revealed that the major constituent is 1,8-cineole (94.03% ± 0.23%). The in vitro antioxidant property of EGEO was assessed using different tests. Percentage inhibitions of EGEO were dose-dependent. In addition, EGEO had a better metal ion chelating effect with an IC50 value of 8.43 ± 0.03 mg/mL, compared to ascorbic acid (140.99 ± 3.13 mg/mL). The in vitro antimicrobial effect of EGEO was assessed against 17 food spoilage microorganisms. The diameter of the inhibitory zone (DIZ) ranged from 15 to 85 mm for Gram-positive bacteria and from 10 to 49 mm for yeast strains. Candida albicans, C.parapsilosis and Saccharomyces cerevisiae were the most sensitive fungal species to the EGEO vapor with DIZ varying from 59 to 85 mm. The anti-yeast effectiveness of EGEO alone and in association with heat processing was estimated in a real juice matrix (Orangina fruit juices) in a time-dependent manner. The combination of EGEO-heat treatment (70 °C for 2 min) at different concentrations (0.8 to 4 µL/mL) was effective at reducing S. cerevisiae growth in the fruit juice of Orangina, compared to juice preserved with synthetic preservatives. Current findings suggest EGEO as an effective and potent inhibitor of food spoilage fungi in a real Orangina juice, and might be a potential natural source of preservative for the food industry.
Hyperspectral Image Super-Resolution Based on Spatial Group Sparsity Regularization Unmixing
Authors: Li Jun , Peng Yuanxi , Jiang Tian , Zhang Longlong , Long Jian
Published: August 2020

A hyperspectral image (HSI) contains many narrow spectral channels, thus containing efficient information in the spectral domain. However, high spectral resolution usually leads to lower spatial resolution as a result of the limitations of sensors. Hyperspectral super-resolution aims to fuse a low spatial resolution HSI with a conventional high spatial resolution image, producing an HSI with high resolution in both the spectral and spatial dimensions. In this paper, we propose a spatial group sparsity regularization unmixing-based method for hyperspectral super-resolution. The hyperspectral image (HSI) is pre-clustered using an improved Simple Linear Iterative Clustering (SLIC) superpixel algorithm to make full use of the spatial information. A robust sparse hyperspectral unmixing method is then used to unmix the input images. Then, the endmembers extracted from the HSI and the abundances extracted from the conventional image are fused. This ensures that the method makes full use of the spatial structure and the spectra of the images. The proposed method is compared with several related methods on public HSI data sets. The results demonstrate that the proposed method has superior performance when compared to the existing state-of-the-art.
Formation of a Calcium Phosphate Layer with Immobilized Cobalt Chromite Nanoparticles on Cobalt−Chromium Alloy by a Laser-Assisted Biomimetic Process
Authors: Oyane Ayako , Sakamaki Ikuko , Koga Kenji , Nakamura Maki
Published: August 2020

The biocompatibility and osteoconductivity of metallic biomaterials can be achieved by calcium phosphate (CaP) coating. We recently developed a laser-assisted biomimetic (LAB) process for rapid and area-specific CaP coating on several materials. In the present study, the LAB process was applied to cobalt–chromium (Co−Cr) alloy, a metallic biomaterial widely used in orthopedic and dental applications. The LAB process was conducted by irradiation of unfocused pulsed laser light onto the substrate immersed in supersaturated CaP solution. The LAB-processed substrate formed CaP on the irradiated surface within only 5 min and was coated with a micron-thick CaP layer within 30 min by the effects of laser-induced surface modification and heating. Ultrastructural analysis with transmission electron microscopy revealed that the resultant CaP layer was integrated with the underlying substrate through two intermediate layers, an upper chromium oxide layer and a lower Co-rich (Cr-deficient) alloy layer. The CaP layer was loaded with a large number of cobalt chromite (CoCr2O4) nanoparticles. The results obtained offer new insights into the mechanism of CaP coating in the LAB process and future applications of LAB-processed Co−Cr alloys.
Matching Consignees/Shippers Recommendation System in Courier Service Using Data Analytics
Authors: Jintana Jutamat , Sopadang Apichat , Ramingwong Sakgasem
Published: August 2020

The purpose of this research was to create a Matching Consignees/Shippers Recommendation System (MCSRS). We used the association rule to identify product associations, the clustering technique to group shippers and consignees according to behaviors when receiving goods from similar shipper groups, and the decision tree to identify possible matches between shippers and consignees. Finally, Monte Carlo simulation was used to estimate potential revenue. The case study is a courier company in Thailand. The results showed that garment products and clothes were the products with the highest association. Shippers and consignees of these products were segmented according to recency, frequency, monetary factors, number of customers, number of product items, weight, and day. Three rules are proposed that enabled the assignment of 8 consignees to 56 shippers with an estimated increase in revenue by 36%. This approach helps decision-makers to develop an effective cost-saving new marketing, inclusive strategy quickly.
Spacing Allocation Method for Vehicular Platoon: A Cooperative Game Theory Approach
Authors: Liu Yang , Zong Changfu , Han Xiaojian , Zhang Dong , Zheng Hongyu , Shi Chunmei
Published: August 2020

Recently, spacing policies of the vehicular platoon have been widely developed to enhance safety, traffic efficiency, and fuel consumption. However, the integrated spacing policies aim to maximum overall benefit, and the distributed spacing policies intense to get optimal monomer benefit. Ignoring the fairness of the benefit allocation of each vehicle will reduce the motivation to constitute the platoon. To fill this critical gap, this study proposes a spacing allocation method by treating spacing decisions as cooperative games. A flock’s model which is used to be the payoff function is introduced based on bionic motion principles. We present a characteristic function of the platoon for the cooperative game model considering the specific structure of the platoon. The τ value, Shapley value, and average lexicographic value are introduced and applied to allocate the spacing fairly. Proposed methods are compared with constant distance policy in some typical situations. The simulation results demonstrate that the spacing policy based on cooperative game theory improved the stable time for consistency control and the convergence of longitudinal following error.
Construction of 3-D Humeral Head Statistical Shape Model in CT Images
Authors: Mahdi Fahad Parvez , Muto Tomoyuki , Tanaka Hiroshi , Inui Hiroaki , Nobuhara Katsuya , Kobashi Syoji
Published: August 2020

Replacing the humeral head with an artificial one via surgery is one of the options to treat glenohumeral osteoarthritis. Thus, designing the artificial humeral head is an important step to alter clinical outcomes. In order to design the artificial humeral head, the individual variety of the humeral heads should be investigated. The statistical shape model (SSM) has been attracting considerable attention to grasp 3-D shape variety; however, no method to derive the SSM of humeral heads has been studied. This paper proposes a method to construct an SSM of humeral heads based on the anatomical landmarks in shoulder computed tomography (CT) images. The proposed method consists of three steps: humeral head extraction, position and pose alignment, and finally, principle component analysis. The method was applied to 22 male subjects with leave-one-out cross validation. The proposed method obtained an average Dice coefficient of 0.92 to represent the individual shape using the constructed SSM. According to shape analysis of the humeral head, we found that the thickness of the humeral head was associated with individual characteristics of the humeral head. Therefore, it can be said that this study can provide patient-specific design of an artificial humeral head.
Vitamin D Merging into Immune System-Skeletal Muscle Network: Effects on Human Health
Authors: Crescioli Clara
Published: August 2020

The concept that extra-skeletal functions of vitamin D impact on human health have taken place since quite ago. Among all, the beneficial effects of vitamin D on immune regulation, skeletal muscle function, and metabolism are undeniable. Adequate vitamin D levels maintain the immune system and skeletal muscle metabolism integrity, promoting whole-body homeostasis; hypovitaminosis D associates with the important decline of both tissues and promotes chronic inflammation, which is recognized to underlie several disease developments. Growing evidence shows that the immune system and skeletal muscle reciprocally dialogue, modulating each other’s function. Within this crosstalk, vitamin D seems able to integrate and converge some biomolecular signaling towards anti-inflammatory protective effects. Thus, vitamin D regulation appears even more critical at the immune system-muscle signaling intersection, rather than at the single tissue level, opening to wider/newer opportunities in clinical applications to improve health. This paper aims to focus on the immune system-skeletal muscle interplay as a multifaceted target for vitamin D in health and disease after recalling the main regulatory functions of vitamin D on those systems, separately. Some myokines, particularly relevant within the immune system/skeletal muscle/vitamin D networking, are discussed. Since vitamin D supplementation potentially offers the opportunity to maintain health, comments on this issue, still under debate, are included.
Eosin Y: Homogeneous Photocatalytic In-Flow Reactions and Solid-Supported Catalysts for In-Batch Synthetic Transformations
Authors: Herbrik Fabian , Camarero González Patricia , Krstic Milena , Puglisi Alessandra , Benaglia Maurizio , Sanz Miguel A. , Rossi Sergio
Published: August 2020

In this paper, the most recent and significant applications of Eosin Y as an organo-photocatalyst will be discussed, focusing the attention on enabling technological aspects in homogeneous photochemical flow reactions, as well as on recent developments in solid-supported catalyst applications for batch synthetic transformations.
Mixing Performance Analysis of Orbitally Shaken Bioreactors
Authors: Shiue Angus , Chen Shih-Chieh , Jeng Jyh-Cheng , Zhu Likuan , Leggett Graham
Published: August 2020

This study investigated the efficacy of a novel correlation of power input, energy dissipation rate and mixing time as a potential route to identify the orbitally shaken bioreactor (OSB) system. The Buckingham’s π-theorem was used to designate and transform dimensionless Newton numbers with five relevant power input variables. These variables were empirically varied to evaluate the correlation among the dimensionless numbers. The Newton number decreases with the increased shaking frequency and filling volume. Previous work has focused on optimizing the mixing process by evaluating different shaking and agitation mixing methods. We establish a new mixing process and assessable measurement of the mixing time in the OSB. An innovative explanation of mixing time for the thermal method is proposed. The optimal mixing time is independent of the temperature of filled liquid. The dimensionless mixing number remained constant in the turbulent regime and increasing with the increased liquid viscosity and filling volume. Our findings revealed that the observed correlation is a practical tool to figure the power consumption and mixing efficiency as cell cultivation in all OSB scales and is fully validated when scaling–up system.
Traditions in the Discussions about the obrabotvane of Folklore in the Avtorski Pesni v Naroden Duh from Bulgaria
Authors: Peycheva Lozanka
Published: August 2020

The avtorski pesni v naroden duh (authored songs in folk spirit) are a modern and multifaceted phenomenon, which has accumulated a rich history in Bulgarian musical culture. This research presents the essential characteristics of these songs and a two-part typology (1. authorized/avtorizirani folk songs; 2. newly composed songs ‘in folk spirit’), which is based on both models of authorship (according to Michel Foucault, authorial function is manifested in two basic forms of authorship—plagiarism and appropriation). This study provides an overview of some of the thematic debates that attempt to resolve the inevitable contradictions and tensions surrounding songwriting in folk spirit. The avtorski pesni v naroden duh have attracted the critical attention of Bulgarian musicians and society and have been the subject of lively discussions, criticisms, and controversy in numerous publications from the first decades of the 20th century to the present. This survey offers different perspectives, opinions and arguments focused on one of the main discussion topics related to the creation and functioning of the avtorski pesni v naroden duh: pro and contra the obrabotvane (transformation, polishing, processing, cultivation) of folklore. This problem has been at the heart of intellectual discussions since the 1930s and during the 1950s–1980s. The critical discussion of the question pro and contra the obrabotvane of folklore, with its whole inconsistency, complexity and impossibility to be reduced to unambiguous answers, leads to sharp confrontations between the holders of different opinions.
Geophysical and Social Influences on Evacuation Decision-Making: The Case of Hurricane Irma
Authors: Ersing Robin L. , Pearce Christianne , Collins Jennifer , Saunders Michelle E. , Polen Amy
Published: August 2020

Understanding the factors that influence evacuation decision-making among local residents is of critical importance to those involved in monitoring and managing weather-related hazards. This study examined both geophysical and social variables that we believe influenced individual decision-making on whether to stay home, seek out a public shelter, or leave the area entirely during Hurricane Irma. A 23-item survey was administered to a convenience sample of adults (n = 234) who resided within a coastal Florida county that received an evacuation warning during Hurricane Irma in 2017. Results suggested sources of information relied on through media, government, family, and social networks contributed to differences in evacuation behavior. Moreover, potential exposure to weather-related conditions, such as flooding and strong winds, along with the likelihood to use available social resources, also influenced decisions to stay or leave the threatened area. Finally, prior evacuation behavior was significantly associated with the decision to evacuate during Hurricane Irma. The decision to evacuate for Hurricane Irma was shown to impact decision-making to evacuate for major hurricanes in the future. If these findings are applied to future storms, a broader conclusion can be made that residents in vulnerable areas may be more likely to evacuate for major hurricanes than they were in the past. Improved understanding of evacuation decision-making can assist emergency managers in preparation and planning to reduce casualties resulting from a hurricane or other weather-related hazard.
An Air Pollutant Emission Reduction Path of China’s Power Industry
Authors: Yu Yue , Jin Zhi-xin , Li Ji-zu , Wu Yu-cheng , Jia Li
Published: August 2020

In China, as the major source of energy consumption and air pollutant emissions, the power industry is not only the principal force that bears the responsibility of national emission reduction targets but also a breakthrough that reflects the effectiveness of emission reduction. In this study, based on the integrated MARKAL-EFOM system (TIMES) model and scenario analysis method, a bottom-up energy system optimization model for the power industry was established, and four scenarios with different constraints were set up to predict and analyze the power demand and the energy consumption structure. Emission characteristics, emission reduction characteristics, and emission reduction cost of sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxide (NOX), particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5), and mercury (Hg) were quantitatively studied. Finally, for the environmentally friendly development and optimal adjustment of power production systems in China, the control path in the power industry that is conducive to the emission reduction of air pollutants was obtained, which is of great significance for the ultimate realization of climate friendliness. The results demonstrate that from 2020 to 2050, the power demand of the terminal departments will increase, with the composition significantly changed. The focus of power demand will change from industry to the service industry gradually. If no additional targeted emission reduction or adjustment policies are added in the power industry, the primary energy and air pollutant emissions will increase significantly, putting great pressure on resources and the environment. For the emission reduction of air pollutants, the promotion effect of emission reduction measures, such as the implementation and promotion of non-fossil fuels, is restricted. The power industry can introduce and maximize the best available technologies while optimizing the structure of energy consumption to realize efficient emission reduction of air pollutants and energy conservation. In 2030, emissions will reach peak values with reasonable emission reduction cost. This has the additional effect of abating energy consumption and preventing deterioration of the ecological environment, which is of profound significance for the ultimate realization of climate friendliness.
Value at Risk Based on Fuzzy Numbers
Authors: Guerra Maria Letizia , Sorini Laerte
Published: August 2020

Value at Risk (VaR) has become a crucial measure for decision making in risk management over the last thirty years and many estimation methodologies address the finding of the best performing measure at taking into account unremovable uncertainty of real financial markets. One possible and promising way to include uncertainty is to refer to the mathematics of fuzzy numbers and to its rigorous methodologies which offer flexible ways to read and to interpret properties of real data which may arise in many areas. The paper aims to show the effectiveness of two distinguished models to account for uncertainty in VaR computation; initially, following a non parametric approach, we apply the Fuzzy-transform approximation function to smooth data by capturing fundamental patterns before computing VaR. As a second model, we apply the Average Cumulative Function (ACF) to deduce the quantile function at point p as the potential loss VaRp for a fixed time horizon for the 100p% of the values. In both cases a comparison is conducted with respect to the identification of VaR through historical simulation: twelve years of daily S&P500 index returns are considered and a back testing procedure is applied to verify the number of bad VaR forecasting in each methodology. Despite the preliminary nature of the research, we point out that VaR estimation, when modelling uncertainty through fuzzy numbers, outperforms the traditional VaR in the sense that it is the closest to the right amount of capital to allocate in order to cover future losses in normal market conditions.
Computational Identification and Characterization of New microRNAs in Human Platelets Stored in a Blood Bank
Authors: Maués Jersey Heitor da Silva , Moreira-Nunes Caroline de Fátima Aquino , Burbano Rommel Mário Rodriguez
Published: August 2020

Platelet concentrate (PC) transfusions are widely used to save the lives of patients who experience acute blood loss. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) comprise a class of molecules with a biological role which is relevant to the understanding of storage lesions in blood banks. We used a new approach to identify miRNAs in normal human platelet sRNA-Seq data from the GSE61856 repository. We identified a comprehensive miRNA expression profile, where we detected 20 of these transcripts potentially expressed in PCs stored for seven days, which had their expression levels analyzed with simulations of computational biology. Our results identified a new collection of miRNAs (miR-486-5p, miR-92a-3p, miR-103a-3p, miR-151a-3p, miR-181a-5p, and miR-221-3p) that showed a sensitivity expression pattern due to biological platelet changes during storage, confirmed by additional quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) validation on 100 PC units from 500 healthy donors. We also identified that these miRNAs could transfer regulatory information on platelets, such as members of the let-7 family, by regulating the YOD1 gene, which is a deubiquitinating enzyme highly expressed in platelet hyperactivity. Our results also showed that the target genes of these miRNAs play important roles in signaling pathways, cell cycle, stress response, platelet activation and cancer. In summary, the miRNAs described in this study, have a promising application in transfusion medicine as potential biomarkers to also measure the quality and viability of the PC during storage in blood banks.
DNA Phosphorothioate Modifications Are Widely Distributed in the Human Microbiome
Authors: Sun Yihua , Kong Lingxin , Wu Guojun , Cao Bo , Pang Xiaoyan , Deng Zixin , Dedon Peter C. , Zhang Chenhong , You Delin
Published: August 2020

The DNA phosphorothioate (PT) modification existing in many prokaryotes, including bacterial pathogens and commensals, confers multiple characteristics, including restricting gene transfer, influencing the global transcriptional response, and reducing fitness during exposure to chemical mediators of inflammation. While PT-containing bacteria have been investigated in a variety of environments, they have not been studied in the human microbiome. Here, we investigated the distribution of PT-harboring strains and verified their existence in the human microbiome. We found over 2000 PT gene-containing strains distributed in different body sites, especially in the gastrointestinal tract. PT-modifying genes are preferentially distributed within several genera, including Pseudomonas, Clostridioides, and Escherichia, with phylogenic diversities. We also assessed the PT modification patterns and found six new PT-linked dinucleotides (CpsG, CpsT, ApsG, TpsG, GpsC, ApsT) in human fecal DNA. To further investigate the PT in the human gut microbiome, we analyzed the abundance of PT-modifying genes and quantified the PT-linked dinucleotides in the fecal DNA. These results confirmed that human microbiome is a rich reservoir for PT-containing microbes and contains a wide variety of PT modification patterns.
Neuroprotection: Targeting Multiple Pathways by Naturally Occurring Phytochemicals
Authors: Khan Andleeb , Jahan Sadaf , Imtiyaz Zuha , Alshahrani Saeed , Antar Makeen Hafiz , Mohammed Alshehri Bader , Kumar Ajay , Arafah Azher , Rehman Muneeb
Published: August 2020

With the increase in the expectancy of the life span of humans, neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) have imposed a considerable burden on the family, society, and nation. In defiance of the breakthroughs in the knowledge of the pathogenesis and underlying mechanisms of various NDs, very little success has been achieved in developing effective therapies. This review draws a bead on the availability of the nutraceuticals to date for various NDs (Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntington’s disease, vascular cognitive impairment, Prion disease, Spinocerebellar ataxia, Spinal muscular atrophy, Frontotemporal dementia, and Pick’s disease) focusing on their various mechanisms of action in various in vivo and in vitro models of NDs. This review is distinctive in its compilation to critically review preclinical and clinical studies of the maximum phytochemicals in amelioration and prevention of almost all kinds of neurodegenerative diseases and address their possible mechanism of action. PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library searches were used for preclinical studies, while ClinicalTrials.gov and PubMed were searched for clinical updates. The results from preclinical studies demonstrate the efficacious effects of the phytochemicals in various NDs while clinical reports showing mixed results with promise for phytochemical use as an adjunct to the conventional treatment in various NDs. These studies together suggest that phytochemicals can significantly act upon different mechanisms of disease such as oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptotic pathways, and gene regulation. However, further clinical studies are needed that should include the appropriate biomarkers of NDs and the effect of phytochemicals on them as well as targeting the appropriate population.
Docking Simulation and Sandwich Assay for Aptamer-Based Botulinum Neurotoxin Type C Detection
Authors: Oh In-Hwan , Park Dae-Young , Cha Ji-Man , Shin Woo-Ri , Kim Ji Hun , Kim Sun Chang , Cho Byung-Kwan , Ahn Ji-Young , Kim Yang-Hoon
Published: August 2020

Aptamers are biomaterials that bind to a target molecule through a unique structure, and have high applicability in the diagnostic and medical fields. To effectively utilize aptamers, it is important to analyze the structure of the aptamer binding to the target molecule; however, there are difficulties in experimentally identifying this structure. In the modern pharmaceutical industry, computer-driven docking simulations that predict intermolecular binding models are used to select candidates that effectively bind target molecules. Botulinum toxin (BoNT) is the most poisonous neurotoxin produced from the Clostridium botulinum bacteria, and BoNT/C, one of the eight serotypes, causes paralysis in livestock. In this study, the aptamers that bound to BoNT/C were screened via the systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment, and the binding affinity analysis and binding model were evaluated to select optimal aptamers. Based on surface plasmon resonance analysis and molecular operating environment docking simulation, a pair of aptamers that had high binding affinity to BoNT/C and were bound to different BoNT/C sites were selected. A sandwich assay based on this aptamer pair detected the BoNT/C protein to a concentration as low as ~0.2 ng Ml−1. These results show that docking simulations are a useful strategy for screening aptamers that bind to specific targets.
Associations between Attention and Implicit Associative Learning in Healthy Adults: The Role of Cortisol and Salivary Alpha-Amylase Responses to an Acute Stressor
Authors: Becker Linda , Rohleder Nicolas
Published: August 2020

In this study, we investigated the associations between implicit associative learning with the cortisol and salivary alpha-amylase (sAA) stress response to an acute stressor as well as their associations with attention. Eighty one healthy adults (25 male) participated and either performed the socially evaluated cold-pressor test (SECPT) or a warm-water control task (WWT). Either prior to or immediately after the SECPT/WWT, participants implicitly learned digit-symbol pairs. A not-previously announced recall test was conducted about 20 min after the SECPT/WWT. Attention was assessed by means of a Stroop task at nine time points over the course of the experiment. Memory recall performance was not significantly associated with the acquisition time point (pre or post stressor) and did not significantly differ between the responder groups (i.e., non-responders, sAA-and-cortisol responders, only sAA responders, and only cortisol responders). Attentional performance increased throughout the experiment (i.e., reaction times in the Stroop task decreased). No differences in the attentional time course were found between the responder groups. However, some associations were found (puncorrected < 0.05) that did not pass the multiple comparison adjusted alpha level of αadjusted = 0.002, indicating different associations between attention and implicit learning between the responder groups. We conclude that the associations of sAA and cortisol responses with implicit learning are complex and are related to each other. Further studies in which both (sAA and cortisol responses) are selectively (de-) activated are needed. Furthermore, different learning tasks and less—potentially stressful—attentional assessments should be used in future research. Moreover, field studies are needed in which the associations between acute stress and implicit associative learning are investigated in everyday life.
The Possible Role of Cancer Stem Cells in the Resistance to Kinase Inhibitors of Advanced Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Gianì Fiorenza , Vella Veronica , Tumino Dario , Malandrino Pasqualino , Frasca Francesco
Published: August 2020

Target therapy with various kinase inhibitors (KIs) has been extended to patients with advanced thyroid cancer, but only a subset of these compounds has displayed efficacy in clinical use. However, after an initial response to KIs, dramatic disease progression occurs in most cases. With the discovery of cancer stem cells (CSCs), it is possible to postulate that thyroid cancer resistance to KI therapies, both intrinsic and acquired, may be sustained by this cell subtype. Indeed, CSCs have been considered as the main drivers of metastatic activity and therapeutic resistance, because of their ability to generate heterogeneous secondary cell populations and survive treatment by remaining in a quiescent state. Hence, despite the impressive progress in understanding of the molecular basis of thyroid tumorigenesis, drug resistance is still the major challenge in advanced thyroid cancer management. In this view, definition of the role of CSCs in thyroid cancer resistance may be crucial to identifying new therapeutic targets and preventing resistance to anti-cancer treatments and tumor relapse. The aim of this review is to elucidate the possible role of CSCs in the development of resistance of advanced thyroid cancer to current anti-cancer therapies and their potential implications in the management of these patients.
Prediction of Response and Survival Following Treatment with Azacitidine for Relapse of Acute Myeloid Leukemia and Myelodysplastic Syndromes after Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Rautenberg Christina , Bergmann Anika , Germing Ulrich , Fischermanns Caroline , Pechtel Sabrina , Kaivers Jennifer , Jäger Paul , Schuler Esther , Haas Rainer , Kobbe Guido , Schroeder Thomas
Published: August 2020

To provide long-term outcome data and predictors for response and survival, we retrospectively analyzed all 151 patients with relapse of myeloid neoplasms after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) who were uniformly treated with first-line azacitidine (Aza) salvage therapy at our center. Patients were treated for molecular (39%) or hematologic relapse (61%), with a median of 5 cycles of Aza and at least one donor lymphocyte infusion in 70% of patients. Overall response was 46%, with 41% achieving complete (CR) and 5% achieving partial remission. CR was achieved after a median of 4 cycles and lasted for a median of 11 months (range 0.9 to 120 months). With a median follow-up of 22 months (range: 1 to 122 months), the 2-year survival rate was 38% ± 9%, including 17 patients with ongoing remission for >5 years. Based on results from multivariate analyses, molecular relapse and time to relapse were integrated into a score, clearly dividing patients into 3 subgroups with CR rates of 71%, 39%, and 29%; and 2-year survival rates of 64%, 38%, and 27%, respectively. In the subgroup of MDS and secondary AML, receiving upfront transplantation was associated with superior response and survival, and therefore pretransplant strategy was integrated together with relapse type into a MDS–sAML-specific score. Overall, Aza enables meaningful responses and long-term survival, which is a predictable with a simple-to-use scoring system.
A Global Gene Body Methylation Measure Correlates Independently with Overall Survival in Solid Cancer Types
Authors: Pils Dietmar , Steindl Elisabeth , Bachmayr-Heyda Anna , Dekan Sabine , Aust Stefanie
Published: August 2020

Epigenetics, CpG methylation of CpG islands (CGI) and gene bodies (GBs), plays an important role in gene regulation and cancer biology, the former established as a transcription regulator. Genome wide CpG methylation, summarized over GBs and CGIs, was analyzed for impact on overall survival (OS) in cancer. The averaged GB and CGI methylation status of each gene was categorized into methylated and unmethylated (defined) or undefined. Differentially methylated GBs and genes associated with their GB methylation status were compared to the corresponding CGI methylation states and biologically annotated. No relevant correlations of GB and CGI methylation or GB methylation and gene expression were observed. Summarized GB methylation showed impact on OS in ovarian, breast, colorectal, and pancreatic cancer, and glioblastoma, but not in lung cancer. In ovarian, breast, and colorectal cancer more defined GBs correlated with unfavorable OS, in pancreatic cancer with favorable OS and in glioblastoma more methylated GBs correlated with unfavorable OS. The GB methylation of genes were similar over different samples and even over cancer types; nevertheless, the clustering of different cancers was possible. Gene expression differences associated with summarized GB methylation were cancer specific. A genome-wide dysregulation of gene-body methylation showed impact on the outcome in different cancers.
Rhodium Nanoparticles Incorporated Mesoporous Silica as an Active Catalyst for Cyclohexene Hydrogenation under Ambient Conditions
Authors: Hamdy Mohamed S. , Alhanash Abdullah M. , Benaissa Mhamed , Alsalme Ali , Alharthi Fahad A. , Al-Zaqri Nabil
Published: August 2020

Rhodium (Rh) nanoparticles were embedded in the mesopores of TUD-1 siliceous material and denoted as Rh-TUD-1. Five samples of Rh-TUD-1 were prepared with different loadings of Rh that ranged from 0.1 to 2 wt% using the sol-gel technique. The prepared samples were characterized by means of several chemical and physical techniques. The obtained characterization results show the formation of highly distributed Rh0 nanoparticles with an average size ranging from 3 to 5 nm throughout the three-dimensional silica matrix of TUD-1. The catalytic activity of the prepared catalysts was evaluated in the solvent-free hydrogenation of cyclohexene to cyclohexane at room temperature using 1atm of hydrogen gas. The obtained catalytic results confirm the high activity of Rh-TUD-1, in which a turn over frequency (TOF) ranging from 4.94 to 0.54 s−1 was obtained. Moreover, the change in reaction temperature during the reaction was monitored, and it showed an obvious increase in the reaction temperature as an indication of the spontaneous and exothermic nature of the reactions. Other optimization parameters, such as the substrate/catalyst ratio, and performing the reaction under non-ambient conditions (temperature = 60 °C and hydrogen pressure = 5 atm) were also investigated. Rh-TUD-1 exhibited a high stability in a consecutive reaction of five runs under either ambient or non-ambient conditions.
Carbon Nanotube Formation on Cr-Doped Ferrite Catalyst during Water Gas Shift Membrane Reaction: Mechanistic Implications and Extended Studies on Dry Gas Conversions
Authors: Sun Xinhui , Arvanitis Antonios , Damma Devaiah , Alvarez Noe T. , Shanov Vesselin , Smirniotis Panagiotis G. , Dong Junhang
Published: August 2020

A nanocrystalline chromium-doped ferrite (FeCr) catalyst was shown to coproduce H2 and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) during water gas shift (WGS) reaction in a H2-permselective zeolite membrane reactor (MR) at reaction pressures of ~20 bar. The FeCr catalyst was further demonstrated in the synthesis of highly crystalline and dimensionally uniform MWCNTs from a dry gas mixture of CO and CH4, which were the apparent sources for MWCNT growth in the WGS MR. In both the WGS MR and dry gas reactions, the operating temperature was 500 °C, which is significantly lower than those commonly used in MWCNT production by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method from CO, CH4, or any other precursor gases. Extensive ex situ characterizations of the reaction products revealed that the FeCr catalyst remained in partially reduced states of Fe3+/Fe2+ and Cr6+/Cr3+ in WGS membrane reaction while further reduction of Fe2+ to Fe0 occurred in the CO/CH4 dry gas environments. The formation of the metallic Fe nanoparticles or catalyst surface dramatically improved the crystallinity and dimensional uniformity of the MWCNTs from dry gas reaction as compared to that from WGS reaction in the MR. Reaction of the CO/CH4 mixture containing 500 ppmv H2S also resulted in high-quality MWCNTs similar to those from the H2S-free feed gas, demonstrating excellent sulfur tolerance of the FeCr catalyst that is practically meaningful for utilization of biogas and cheap coal-derived syngas.
Arsenic Removal by Advanced Electrocoagulation Processes: The Role of Oxidants Generated and Kinetic Modeling
Authors: Montefalcon Micah Flor V. , Chiong Meliton R. , Resurreccion Augustus C. , Garcia-Segura Sergi , Ocon Joey D.
Published: August 2020

Arsenic (As) is a naturally occurring element in the environment that poses significant risks to human health. Several treatment technologies have been successfully used in the treatment of As-contaminated waters. However, limited literature has explored advanced electrocoagulation (EC) processes for As removal. The present study evaluates the As removal performance of electrocoagulation, electrochemical peroxidation (ECP), and photo-assisted electrochemical peroxidation (PECP) technologies at circumneutral pH using electroactive iron electrodes. The influence of As speciation and the role of oxidants in As removal were investigated. We have identified the ECP process to be a promising alternative for the conventional EC with around 4-fold increase in arsenic removal capacity at a competitive cost of 0.0060 $/m3. Results also indicated that the rate of As(III) oxidation at the outset of electrochemical treatment dictates the extent of As removal. Both ECP and PECP processes reached greater than 96% As(III) conversion at 1 C/L and achieved 86% and 96% As removal at 5 C/L, respectively. Finally, the mechanism of As(III) oxidation was evaluated, and results showed that Fe(IV) is the intermediate oxidant generated in advanced EC processes, and the contribution of •OH brought by UV irradiation is insignificant.
Targeting Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia-Associated Pulmonary Hypertension (BPD-PH): Potential Role of the FGF Signaling Pathway in the Development of the Pulmonary Vascular System
Authors: Chao Cho-Ming , Chong Lei , Chu Xuran , Shrestha Amit , Behnke Judith , Ehrhardt Harald , Zhang Jinsan , Chen Chengshui , Bellusci Saverio
Published: August 2020

More than 50 years after the first description of Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) by Northway, this chronic lung disease affecting many preterm infants is still poorly understood. Additonally, approximately 40% of preterm infants suffering from severe BPD also suffer from Bronchopulmonary dysplasia-associated pulmonary hypertension (BPD-PH), leading to a significant increase in total morbidity and mortality. Until today, there is no curative therapy for both BPD and BPD-PH available. It has become increasingly evident that growth factors are playing a central role in normal and pathologic development of the pulmonary vasculature. Thus, this review aims to summarize the recent evidence in our understanding of BPD-PH from a basic scientific point of view, focusing on the potential role of Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF)/FGF10 signaling pathway contributing to disease development, progression and resolution.
Role of EGFR in the Nervous System
Authors: Romano Roberta , Bucci Cecilia
Published: August 2020

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is the first discovered member of the receptor tyrosine kinase superfamily and plays a fundamental role during embryogenesis and in adult tissues, being involved in growth, differentiation, maintenance and repair of various tissues and organs. The role of EGFR in the regulation of tissue development and homeostasis has been thoroughly investigated and it has also been demonstrated that EGFR is a driver of tumorigenesis. In the nervous system, other growth factors, and thus other receptors, are important for growth, differentiation and repair of the tissue, namely neurotrophins and neurotrophins receptors. For this reason, for a long time, the role of EGFR in the nervous system has been underestimated and poorly investigated. However, EGFR is expressed both in the central and peripheral nervous systems and it has been demonstrated to have specific important neurotrophic functions, in particular in the central nervous system. This review discusses the role of EGFR in regulating differentiation and functions of neurons and neuroglia. Furthermore, its involvement in regeneration after injury and in the onset of neurodegenerative diseases is examined.