bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Registration of Urothelial Tumours in Cancer Registries: How to Improve and Make It More Useful?
Authors: Daubisse-Marliac Laetitia , Grosclaude Pascale , Carulla Marià , Parada David , Vilardell Loreto , Ameijide Alberto , Marcos-Gragera Rafael , Galceran Jaume
Published: February 2022

Due to the differences in the definition, criteria of inclusion and coding of urothelial tumours (UTs), data of different cancer registries (CRs) are not comparable. The aim of this work is to study current practices of registration of UT in the European CR of the GRELL countries in order to propose new registration rules to correctly describe incidence and survival of progressive tumours like UT. A questionnaire was sent to 91 CRs to assess whether non-invasive (NI)UT, multiple UTs, UTs occurring outside or before the operating period and time between UTs are currently considered in tumour recording and reporting. All participating CRs (n = 42) record a NI bladder UT in sole occurrence. In case of progressive bladder UT, 98% of the CRs record at least one NIUT but 19% don’t record the invasive progression. 17% of the CRs don’t record an invasive pelvic tumour that occurs after a NI bladder UT. 19% of the CRs don’t record an invasive bladder UT that followed a NI tumour occurring outside the zone or period of time. The recording of two synchronous UTs is carried out with a grouping topography for 36% of the CRs. The same analysis conducted on the reporting of the incidence of UT also shows heterogeneity. We conclude that there is an urgent need to define clear rules for the registration of UT.
Atherosclerosis in HIV Patients: What Do We Know so Far?
Authors: Poznyak Anastasia V. , Bezsonov Evgeny E. , Borisov Evgeny E. , Grechko Andrey V. , Kartuesov Andrey G. , Orekhov Alexander N.
Published: February 2022

For the past several decades, humanity has been dealing with HIV. This disease is one of the biggest global health problems. Fortunately, modern antiretroviral therapy allows patients to manage the disease, improving their quality of life and their life expectancy. In addition, the use of these drugs makes it possible to reduce the risk of transmission of the virus to almost zero. Atherosclerosis is another serious pathology that leads to severe health problems, including disability and, often, the death of the patient. An effective treatment for atherosclerosis has not yet been developed. Both types of immune response, innate and adaptive, are important components of the pathogenesis of this disease. In this regard, the peculiarities of the development of atherosclerosis in HIV carriers are of particular scientific interest. In this review, we have tried to summarize the data on atherosclerosis and its development in HIV carriers. We also looked at the classic therapeutic methods and their features concerning the concomitant diagnosis.
Current Strategies for the Gene Therapy of Autosomal Recessive Congenital Ichthyosis and Other Types of Inherited Ichthyosis
Authors: Chulpanova Daria S. , Shaimardanova Alisa A. , Ponomarev Aleksei S. , Elsheikh Somaia , Rizvanov Albert A. , Solovyeva Valeriya V.
Published: February 2022

Mutations in genes such as transglutaminase-1 (TGM1), which are responsible for the formation and normal functioning of a lipid barrier, lead to the development of autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis (ARCI). ARCIs are characterized by varying degrees of hyperkeratosis and the presence of scales on the body surface since birth. The quality of life of patients is often significantly affected, and in order to alleviate the manifestations of the disease, symptomatic therapy with moisturizers, keratolytics, retinoids and other cosmetic substances is often used to improve the condition of the patients’ skin. Graft transplantation is commonly used to correct defects of the eye. However, these approaches offer symptomatic treatment that does not restore the lost protein function or provide a long-term skin barrier. Gene and cell therapies are evolving as promising therapy for ARCIs that can correct the functional activity of altered proteins. However, these approaches are still at an early stage of development. This review discusses current studies of gene and cell therapy approaches for various types of ichthyosis and their further prospects for patient treatment.
Dek504 Encodes a Mitochondrion-Targeted E+-Type Pentatricopeptide Repeat Protein Essential for RNA Editing and Seed Development in Maize
Authors: Wang Zheyuan , Chen Weiwei , Zhang Song , Lu Jiawen , Chen Rongrong , Fu Junjie , Gu Riliang , Wang Guoying , Wang Jianhua , Cui Yu
Published: February 2022

In flowering plants, RNA editing is a post-transcriptional process that selectively deaminates cytidines (C) to uridines (U) in organellar transcripts. Pentatricopeptide repeat (PPR) proteins have been identified as site-specific recognition factors for RNA editing. Here, we report the map-based cloning and molecular characterization of the defective kernel mutant dek504 in maize. Loss of Dek504 function leads to delayed embryogenesis and endosperm development, which produce small and collapsed kernels. Dek504 encodes an E+-type PPR protein targeted to the mitochondria, which is required for RNA editing of mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase 3 at the nad3-317 and nad3-44 sites. Biochemical analysis of mitochondrial protein complexes revealed a significant reduction in the mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase complex I activity, indicating that the alteration of the amino acid sequence at nad3-44 and nad3-317 through RNA editing is essential for NAD3 function. Moreover, the amino acids are highly conserved in monocots and eudicots, whereas the events of C-to-U editing are not conserved in flowering plants. Thus, our results indicate that Dek504 is essential for RNA editing of nad3, which is critical for NAD3 function, mitochondrial complex I stability, and seed development in maize.
Transcriptomics of Parental Care in the Hypothalamic–Septal Region of Female Zebra Finch Brain
Authors: Kumari Rashmi , Fazekas Emese A. , Morvai Boglárka , Udvari Edina B. , Dóra Fanni , Zachar Gergely , Székely Tamás , Pogány Ákos , Dobolyi Árpád
Published: February 2022

(1) Background: The objective of this study was to uncover genomic causes of parental care. Since birds do not lactate and, therefore, do not show the gene expressional changes required for lactation, we investigate gene expression associated with parenting in caring and non-caring females in an avian species, the small passerine bird zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata). Here, we compare expression patterns in the hypothalamic–septal region since, previously, we showed that this area is activated in parenting females. (2) Methods: Transcriptome sequencing was first applied in a dissected part of the zebra finch brain related to taking care of the nestlings as compared to a control group of social pairs without nestlings. (3) Results: We found genes differentially expressed between caring and non-caring females. When introducing a log2fold change threshold of 1.5, 13 annotated genes were significantly upregulated in breeding pairs, while 39 annotated genes were downregulated. Significant enrichments of dopamine and acetylcholine biosynthetic processes were identified among upregulated pathways, while pro-opiomelanocortin and thyroid hormone pathways were downregulated, suggesting the importance of these systems in parental care. Network analysis further suggested neuro-immunological changes in mothers. (4) Conclusions: The results confirm the roles of several hypothesized major pathways in parental care, whereas novel pathways are also proposed.
Effect of In Vitro Gastrointestinal Digestion on Amino Acids, Polyphenols and Antioxidant Capacity of Tamarillo Yoghurts
Authors: Diep Tung Thanh , Yoo Michelle Ji Yeon , Rush Elaine
Published: February 2022

Laird’s Large tamarillo powder is high in protein (10%) essential amino acids (EAAs), gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and polyphenols (0.6% phenolics plus anthocyanins) and fibre 25%. This study aimed to investigate, using a standardized static in vitro digestion model, the stability of amino acids and antioxidant capacity of polyphenols in yoghurt fortified with 5, 10 and 15% tamarillo powder either before (PRE) or after (POS) fermentation. Compared to plain yoghurt, the fruit polyphenols (rutinosides and glycosides) were retained and substantial increases in FEAAs (free essential amino acids), total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant activity were observed particularly at the end of intestinal phase of digestion. Together with SDS-PAGE results, peptides and proteins in tamarillo yoghurts were more easily digested and therefore may be better absorbed in the small intestine compared to the control. TPC and antioxidant activity of fortified yoghurts increased significantly after in vitro digestion. Relatively high bioaccessibilty of chlorogenic acid and kaempferol-3-rutinoside in digested PRE samples was observed. The results suggest that the yoghurt matrix might protect some compounds from degradation, increasing bioaccessibility and in the small intestine allow increased absorption and utilization possible. Fortification would deliver intact polyphenols and fibre to the large intestine and improve gut health. Further research of acceptability, shelf life, and then trials for health effects should be implemented.
Function and Regulation of microRNA171 in Plant Stem Cell Homeostasis and Developmental Programing
Authors: Han Han , Zhou Yun
Published: February 2022

MicroRNA171 (miR171), a group of 21-nucleotide single-strand small RNAs, is one ancient and conserved microRNA family in land plants. This review focuses on the recent progress in understanding the role of miR171 in plant stem cell homeostasis and developmental patterning, and the regulation of miR171 by developmental cues and environmental signals. Specifically, miR171 regulates shoot meristem activity and phase transition through repressing the HAIRYMERISTEM (HAM) family genes. In the model species Arabidopsis, miR171 serves as a short-range mobile signal, which initiates in the epidermal layer of shoot meristems and moves downwards within a limited distance, to pattern the apical-basal polarity of gene expression and drive stem cell dynamics. miR171 levels are regulated by light and various abiotic stresses, suggesting miR171 may serve as a linkage between environmental factors and cell fate decisions. Furthermore, miR171 family members also demonstrate both conserved and lineage-specific functions in land plants, which are summarized and discussed here.
Transposable Elements and Human Diseases: Mechanisms and Implication in the Response to Environmental Pollutants
Authors: Chénais Benoît
Published: February 2022

Transposable elements (TEs) are recognized as major players in genome plasticity and evolution. The high abundance of TEs in the human genome, especially the Alu and Long Interspersed Nuclear Element-1 (LINE-1) repeats, makes them responsible for the molecular origin of several diseases. This involves several molecular mechanisms that are presented in this review: insertional mutation, DNA recombination and chromosomal rearrangements, modification of gene expression, as well as alteration of epigenetic regulations. This literature review also presents some of the more recent and/or more classical examples of human diseases in which TEs are involved. Whether through insertion of LINE-1 or Alu elements that cause chromosomal rearrangements, or through epigenetic modifications, TEs are widely implicated in the origin of human cancers. Many other human diseases can have a molecular origin in TE-mediated chromosomal recombination or alteration of gene structure and/or expression. These diseases are very diverse and include hemoglobinopathies, metabolic and neurological diseases, and common diseases. Moreover, TEs can also have an impact on aging. Finally, the exposure of individuals to stresses and environmental contaminants seems to have a non-negligible impact on the epigenetic derepression and mobility of TEs, which can lead to the development of diseases. Thus, improving our knowledge of TEs may lead to new potential diagnostic markers of diseases.
CHERP Regulates the Alternative Splicing of pre-mRNAs in the Nucleus
Authors: Yamanaka Yasutaka , Ishizuka Takaki , Fujita Ken-ichi , Fujiwara Naoko , Kurata Masashi , Masuda Seiji
Published: February 2022

Calcium homeostasis endoplasmic reticulum protein (CHERP) is colocalized with the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R) in the endoplasmic reticulum or perinuclear region, and has been involved in intracellular calcium signaling. Structurally, CHERP carries the nuclear localization signal and arginine/serine-dipeptide repeats, like domain, and interacts with the spliceosome. However, the exact function of CHERP in the nucleus remains unknown. Here, we showed that poly(A)+ RNAs accumulated in the nucleus of CHERP-depleted U2OS cells. Our global analysis revealed that CHERP regulated alternative mRNA splicing events by interaction with U2 small nuclear ribonucleoproteins (U2 snRNPs) and U2 snRNP-related proteins. Among the five alternative splicing patterns analyzed, intron retention was the most frequently observed event. This was in accordance with the accumulation of poly(A)+ RNAs in the nucleus. Furthermore, intron retention and cassette exon choices were influenced by the strength of the 5′ or 3′ splice site, the branch point site, GC content, and intron length. In addition, CHERP depletion induced anomalies in the cell cycle progression into the M phase, and abnormal cell division. These results suggested that CHERP is involved in the regulation of alternative splicing.
A Deadly Embrace: Hemagglutination Mediated by SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein at Its 22 N-Glycosylation Sites, Red Blood Cell Surface Sialoglycoproteins, and Antibody
Authors: Scheim David E.
Published: February 2022

Rouleaux (stacked clumps) of red blood cells (RBCs) observed in the blood of COVID-19 patients in three studies call attention to the properties of several enveloped virus strains dating back to seminal findings of the 1940s. For COVID-19, key such properties are: (1) SARS-CoV-2 binds to RBCs in vitro and also in the blood of COVID-19 patients; (2) although ACE2 is its target for viral fusion and replication, SARS-CoV-2 initially attaches to sialic acid (SA) terminal moieties on host cell membranes via glycans on its spike protein; (3) certain enveloped viruses express hemagglutinin esterase (HE), an enzyme that releases these glycan-mediated bindings to host cells, which is expressed among betacoronaviruses in the common cold strains but not the virulent strains, SARS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2 and MERS. The arrangement and chemical composition of the glycans at the 22 N-glycosylation sites of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and those at the sialoglycoprotein coating of RBCs allow exploration of specifics as to how virally induced RBC clumping may form. The in vitro and clinical testing of these possibilities can be sharpened by the incorporation of an existing anti-COVID-19 therapeutic that has been found in silico to competitively bind to multiple glycans on SARS-CoV-2 spike protein.
Zinc Prevents DNA Damage in Normal Cells but Shows Genotoxic and Cytotoxic Effects in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells
Authors: Costa Maria Inês , Lapa Beatriz Santos , Jorge Joana , Alves Raquel , Carreira Isabel Marques , Sarmento-Ribeiro Ana Bela , Gonçalves Ana Cristina
Published: February 2022

Genomic instability is prevented by the DNA damage response (DDR). Micronutrients, like zinc (Zn), are cofactors of DDR proteins, and micronutrient deficiencies have been related to increased cancer risk. Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients commonly present Zn deficiency. Moreover, reports point to DDR defects in AML. We studied the effects of Zn in DDR modulation in AML. Cell lines of AML (HEL) and normal human lymphocytes (IMC) were cultured in standard culture, Zn depletion, and supplementation (40 μM ZnSO4) conditions and exposed to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) or ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Chromosomal damage, cell death, and nuclear division indexes (NDI) were assessed through cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay. The phosphorylated histone H2AX (yH2AX) expression was monitored at 0 h, 1 h, and 24 h after exposure. Expression of DDR genes was evaluated by quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Zn supplementation increased the genotoxicity of H2O2 and UV radiation in AML cells, induced cytotoxic and antiproliferative effects, and led to persistent yH2AX activation. In contrast, in normal lymphocytes, supplementation decreased damage rates, while Zn depletion favored damage accumulation and impaired repair kinetics. Gene expression was not affected by Zn depletion or supplementation. Zn presented a dual role in the modulation of genome damage, preventing damage accumulation in normal cells and increasing genotoxicity and cytotoxicity in AML cells.
Trigonal Bipyramidal Rhodium(I) Methyl and Phenyl Complexes: Precursors of Oxidative Methyl and Phenyl Radical Generation
Authors: Fischbach Urs , Vogt Matthias , Coburger Peter , Trincado Monica , Grützmacher Hansjörg
Published: February 2022

The new complexes [Rh(Me)(trop3P)] (2) and [Rh(Ph)(trop3P)] (3) (trop = 5H-dibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-5-yl) were synthesised by addition of organolithium reagents (MeLi and PhLi) to the parent pentacoordinated chloride complex [RhCl(trop3P)]. The compounds have a trigonal bipyramidal structure with olefin-only ligands in the equatorial position and the methyl or phenyl substituent in the axial position. Oxidation of complexes 2 and 3 leads to the liberation of methyl and phenyl radicals, which were indirectly detected by reaction with common spin trapping reagents.
A High-Performing Nanostructured Ir Doped-TiO2 for Efficient Photocatalytic Degradation of Gaseous Toluene
Authors: Ho Van Thi Thanh , Chau Dung Hung , Bui Khang Quang , Nguyen Ngan Thi Thanh , Tran Thi Kim Ngan , Bach Long Giang , Truong Son Nguyen
Published: February 2022

TiO2-based photocatalysts still have some limitations such as large bandgap and low surface area, leading to low efficiency in the photocatalytic degradation of VOCs and limiting it to use in sunlight. Here we report that the nanostructured Ir-doped TiO2 as an efficient photocatalyst generates an excellent risk-reduction material of gaseous toluene. We have succeeded in developing a nanostructured Ir-doped TiO2 and initially found that excellent efficient photocatalytic VOC decomposition can be achieved in our materials The nanostructured Ir-doped TiO2 was synthesized by a one pot, low temperature hydrothermal process with different ratios of Ir doped into the TiO2. It exhibited a high surface area, uniformly spherical morphology of 10–15 nm. Its activity for the photocatalytic degradation of gaseous toluene exhibited up to 97.5% under UV light. This enhancement could be explained by iridium doping which created a high concentration oxygen vacancy and changed the recombination rate of the photogenerated charge carriers. More generally, our study indicates a strategic way to develop the novel nanostructured material for numerous applications.
A Survey of 6D Object Detection Based on 3D Models for Industrial Applications
Authors: Gorschlüter Felix , Rojtberg Pavel , Pöllabauer Thomas
Published: February 2022

Six-dimensional object detection of rigid objects is a problem especially relevant for quality control and robotic manipulation in industrial contexts. This work is a survey of the state of the art of 6D object detection with these use cases in mind, specifically focusing on algorithms trained only with 3D models or renderings thereof. Our first contribution is a listing of requirements typically encountered in industrial applications. The second contribution is a collection of quantitative evaluation results for several different 6D object detection methods trained with synthetic data and the comparison and analysis thereof. We identify the top methods for individual requirements that industrial applications have for object detectors, but find that a lack of comparable data prevents large-scale comparison over multiple aspects.
Kidney Tumor Semantic Segmentation Using Deep Learning: A Survey of State-of-the-Art
Authors: Abdelrahman Abubaker , Viriri Serestina
Published: February 2022

Cure rates for kidney cancer vary according to stage and grade; hence, accurate diagnostic procedures for early detection and diagnosis are crucial. Some difficulties with manual segmentation have necessitated the use of deep learning models to assist clinicians in effectively recognizing and segmenting tumors. Deep learning (DL), particularly convolutional neural networks, has produced outstanding success in classifying and segmenting images. Simultaneously, researchers in the field of medical image segmentation employ DL approaches to solve problems such as tumor segmentation, cell segmentation, and organ segmentation. Segmentation of tumors semantically is critical in radiation and therapeutic practice. This article discusses current advances in kidney tumor segmentation systems based on DL. We discuss the various types of medical images and segmentation techniques and the assessment criteria for segmentation outcomes in kidney tumor segmentation, highlighting their building blocks and various strategies.
PRNU-Based Video Source Attribution: Which Frames Are You Using?
Authors: Ferrara Pasquale , Iuliani Massimo , Piva Alessandro
Published: February 2022

Photo Response Non-Uniformity (PRNU) is reputed the most successful trace to identify the source of a digital video. However, its effectiveness is mainly limited by compression and the effect of recently introduced electronic image stabilization on several devices. In the last decade, several approaches were proposed to overcome both these issues, mainly by selecting those video frames which are considered more informative. However, the two problems were always treated separately, and the combined effect of compression and digital stabilization was never considered. This separated analysis makes it hard to understand if achieved conclusions still stand for digitally stabilized videos and if those choices represent a general optimum strategy to perform video source attribution. In this paper, we explore whether an optimum strategy exists in selecting frames based on their type and their positions within the groups of pictures. We, therefore, systematically analyze the PRNU contribute provided by all frames belonging to either digitally stabilized or not stabilized videos. Results on the VISION dataset come up with some insights into optimizing video source attribution in different use cases.
New Species of Aspergillus (Aspergillaceae) from Tropical Islands of China
Authors: Wang Xin-Cun , Zhuang Wen-Ying
Published: February 2022

Aspergillus species are cosmopolitan and ubiquitous, closely related to human daily life. They are also of food, industrial and medical importance. From the examination of cultures isolated from soil samples collected on tropical islands of China, four new species of the genus were discovered based on phylogenetic analyses and morphological comparisons. Aspergillus xishaensis sp. nov. and A. neoterreus sp. nov. belong to sections Flavipedes and Terrei of subgenus Circumdati, and A. hainanicus sp. nov. and A. qilianyuensis sp. nov. are in sections Cavernicolarum and Nidulantes of subgenus Nidulantes. To accommodate A. hainanicus, a new series Hainanici was proposed. Detailed descriptions and illustrations of the new taxa were provided.
Mechanical Performance and Void Structure Change of Foamed Cement Paste Subjected to Static and Cyclic Loading under Plane Strain Conditions
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Rao Fengrui , Ye Guanbao , Liu Jiangting
Published: February 2022

Cement-based lightweight materials have received much attention recently in embankment backfill applications, the boundary of which is more close to a plane strain condition. To study the influence of plane strain condition on the behavior and void structure of cement-based lightweight material under cyclic loading, this paper conducted a series of compression tests on foamed cement pastes with densities of 700 and 900 kg/m3 subjected to static and cyclic loading under plane strain conditions. The X-CT technique was adopted to obtain the three-dimensional (3-D) void structures of the specimens before and after the loading tests. The results showed that the plane strain conditions yielded specimen compression strengths 30–50% higher than the unconfined conditions. The specimen integrity endured under load levels of less than 0.5, but failed after approximately 1000 cycles under a load level of 0.8, indicating that cyclic loading could accelerate the degradation of the specimena. The void structures of the specimens showed that the void volumes were featured bfatured an unimodal distribution with unimodal positions in a range of 0.1–0.2 mm3. The unimodal position became higher with the increasing cyclic load level. Slices of the specimens after static and cyclic loading tests suggested that cyclic load could easily lead to the rupture of voids that then merge into bigger voids and the connection of voids forming cracks.
A Sustainable Reuse of Agro-Industrial Wastes into Green Cement Bricks
Authors: Chin Wei , Lee Yeong , Amran Mugahed , Fediuk Roman , Vatin Nikolai , Kueh Ahmad , Lee Yee
Published: February 2022

The fabrication of bricks commonly consumes relatively high natural resources. To reduce the carbon footprint in the brick production industry, repurposing industrial wastes in the making of sustainable bricks is a recent trend in research and application. Local wastes, such as oil palm shell (OPS), palm oil fuel ash (POFA), and quarry dust (QD), are massively produced annually in the palm oil-exporting countries. Moreover, QD from mining industries is hazardous to both water and air quality. For better waste management in marching towards sustainability, these wastes should be given their second life as construction materials. Therefore, this paper investigates the possibility of incorporating agro-industrial wastes into the brick mixture by examining their properties by means of several standardized tests. For the mix design, a 100% replacement of coarse aggregate with OPS, 20% replacement of cement with POFA, 20% cement weight of limestone as admixture, and 0 to 50% replacements of fine aggregate with QD are experimentally considered. The optimum mix of these wastes is preliminarily determined by focusing on high compressive strength as an indicator. Other examinations include splitting tensile, flexural strength, water absorption, and efflorescence tests. Although the agro-industrial waste cement brick is 18% lower in the strength to weight ratio compared to that of conventional, it is observed that it has better late strength development due to its POFA pozzolanic properties. Moreover, the proposed green cement brick is further checked for compliance with several standards for feasible use in the construction industry. Financially, the cost for the brick with the new mix design is almost equivalent to that of conventional. Hence, this green cement brick is reasonable to be employed in the construction industry to promote material sustainability for better waste management.
Antiferromagnetic Phase Induced by Nitrogen Doping in 2D Cr2S3
Authors: Zhou Wenda , Chen Mingyue , Yuan Cailei , Huang He , Zhang Jingyan , Wu Yanfei , Zheng Xinqi , Shen Jianxin , Wang Guyue , Wang Shouguo , Shen Baogen
Published: February 2022

Exploration for the new members of air-stable 2D antiferromagnetic magnets to widen the magnetic families has drawn great attention due to its potential applications in spintronic devices. In addition to seeking the intrinsic antiferromagnets, externally introducing antiferromagnetic ordering in existing 2D materials, such as structural regulation and phase engineering, may be a promising way to modulate antiferromagnetism in the 2D limit. In this work, the in situ nitrogen doping growth of ultrathin 2D Cr2S3 nanoflakes has been achieved. Antiferromagnetic ordering in 2D Cr2S3 nanoflakes can be triggered by nitrogen doping induced new phase (space group P3¯1c). This work provides a new route to realize antiferromagnetism in atomically thin 2D magnets and greatly extend applications of 2D magnets in valleytronics and spintronics.
Analysis of Surface State after Turning of High Tempered Bearing Steel
Authors: Čilliková Mária , Mičietová Anna , Čep Róbert , Jacková Martina , Minárik Peter , Neslušan Miroslav , Kouřil Karel
Published: February 2022

This paper investigates surface state after turning of the high tempered bearing steel 100Cr6 with a hardness of 40 HRC. White layer (WL) thickness and its microhardness, as well as surface roughness, are investigated as a function of tool flank wear VB as well as cutting speed vc. The mechanical and thermal load of the machined surface were analysed in order to provide a deeper insight into their superimposing contribution. Cutting energy expressed in terms of cutting force was analyses as that consumed for chip formation Fγ and consumed in the flank wear land Fα. It was found that the mechanical energy expressed in terms of the shear components of the Fα grows with VB, converts to the heat and strongly affects the thickness of the re-hardened layer. Furthermore, the superimposing contribution of the heat generation and its duration in the VB region should also be taken into account. It was also found that the influence of VB predominates over the variable cutting speed.
Signal-Level Fusion Approach for Embedded Ultrasonic Sensors in Damage Detection of Real RC Structures
Authors: Chakraborty Joyraj , Stolinski Marek
Published: February 2022

This paper presents a novel methodology to fuse signals from multiple ultrasonic sensors and detect cracks in the reinforced concrete reference structure using nondecimate discrete wavelet transform. The behaviour of a reinforced concrete structure subjected to operational changes is considered. The changes/damage detection procedure is based on a novel sensor fusion method. Several advantages of the proposed approach using the sensor fusion method with respect to features from single pair of sensors were shown and discussed based on the tested objects. A CWT feature-based approach is considered to extract damage-sensitive features. Experimental results using the proposed approach show a probability of detection greater than 94% when detecting cracks due to quasistatic load. Due to the comprehensive effectiveness and low computational complexity, the proposed approach could be performed in large real structural damage assessment problems as well.
Experimental Study on Ion Transport in Microfluidic Electrodialysis Using Partially Masked Ion Exchange Membranes
Authors: Jang Junsu , Kim Minsung , Shin Joonghan , Yang Daejong , Kim Minseok , Kim Bumjoo
Published: February 2022

Electrodialysis using anion-exchange membranes (AEMs) and cation-exchange membranes (CEMs) has been widely used for water desalination and the management of various ionic species. During commercial electrodialysis, the available area of an ion-exchange membrane is reduced by a non-conductive spacer that is in contact with the AEM/CEM. Although multiple reports have described the advantages or disadvantages of spacers, fewer studies have explored the effects of spacers on the mass transport effect of the reduced membrane area excluding the fluid flow change. In this paper, we present our experimental studies concerning mass transport in microfluidic electrodialysis systems with partially masked ion-exchange membranes. Six different types of masking membranes were prepared by the deposition of non-conductive films on parts of the membranes. The experimental results showed that the overlapped types (in which masking was vertically aligned in the AEM/CEM) exhibited a larger electrical conductance and better current/energy efficiency, compared with the non-overlapped types (in which masking was vertically dislocated in the AEM/CEM). We also observed that a reduction in the unit length of the unmasked ion-exchange membrane enhanced overall mass transport. Our results demonstrate the effects of patterned membranes on electrical resistance and desalination performance; they also identify appropriate arrangements for electromembrane systems.
Research Progress of MEMS Inertial Switches
Authors: Liu Min , Wu Xinyang , Niu Yanxu , Yang Haotian , Zhu Yingmin , Wang Weidong
Published: February 2022

As a typical type of MEMS acceleration sensor, the inertial switch can alter its on-off state while the environmental accelerations satisfy threshold value. An exhaustive summary of the design concept, performance aspects, and fabrication methods of the micro electromechanical system (MEMS) inertial switch is provided. Different MEMS inertial switch studies were reviewed that emphasized acceleration directional and threshold sensitivity, contact characteristics, and their superiorities and disadvantages. Furthermore, the specific fabrication methods offer an applicability reference for the preparation process for the designed inertial switch, including non-silicon surface micromachining technology, standard silicon micromachining technology, and the special fabrication method for the liquid inertial switch. At the end, the main conclusions of the current challenges and prospects about MEMS inertial switches are drawn to assist with the development of research in the field of future engineering applications.
Viral Ejection Proteins: Mosaically Conserved, Conformational Gymnasts
Authors: Swanson Nicholas , Hou Chun-Feng , Cingolani Gino
Published: February 2022

Bacterial viruses (or bacteriophages) have developed formidable ways to deliver their genetic information inside bacteria, overcoming the complexity of the bacterial-cell envelope. In short-tailed phages of the Podoviridae superfamily, genome ejection is mediated by a set of mysterious internal virion proteins, also called ejection or pilot proteins, which are required for infectivity. The ejection proteins are challenging to study due to their plastic structures and transient assembly and have remained less characterized than classical components such as the phage coat protein or terminase subunit. However, a spate of recent cryo-EM structures has elucidated key features underscoring these proteins’ assembly and conformational gymnastics that accompany their expulsion from the virion head through the portal protein channel into the host. In this review, we will use a phage-T7-centric approach to critically review the status of the literature on ejection proteins, decipher the conformational changes of T7 ejection proteins in the pre- and post-ejection conformation, and predict the conservation of these proteins in other Podoviridae. The challenge is to relate the structure of the ejection proteins to the mechanisms of genome ejection, which are exceedingly complex and use the host’s machinery.
Dietary Intake and Sources of Added Sugars in Various Food Environments in Costa Rican Adolescents
Authors: Monge-Rojas Rafael , Vargas-Quesada Rulamán , Colón-Ramos Uriyoán , Chinnock Anne
Published: February 2022

Consumption of added sugars, especially from sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs), has been associated with several negative health outcomes during adolescence. This study aimed to identify dietary intake and food sources of added sugars in the home, school, and neighborhood environments of Costa Rican adolescents. Dietary intake of added sugars was determined using 3-day food records in a cross-sectional study of 818 adolescents aged 12 to 19 and enrolled in rural and urban schools in the province of San José. On average, 90% of adolescents consumed more than 10% of their total energy intake from added sugars. Furthermore, 74.0% of added sugars were provided at home, 17.4% at school, and 8.6% in the neighborhood. Added sugars were primarily provided by frescos (29.4%), fruit-flavored still drinks (22.9%), and sugar-sweetened carbonated beverages (12.3%), for a total contribution of 64.6%. Our findings suggest that Costa Rican adolescents have a plethora of added sugar sources in all food environments where they socialize. However, it is relevant for public health to consider the home and school environments as fundamental units of interventions aimed at reducing added sugars in the adolescent diet. Frescos prepared at home and school and fruit-flavored still drinks must be the focus of these interventions.
Drug Discovery of New Anti-Inflammatory Compounds by Targeting Cyclooxygenases
Authors: Burayk Shady , Oh-hashi Kentaro , Kandeel Mahmoud
Published: February 2022

The goal of achieving anti-inflammatory efficacy with the fewest possible adverse effects through selective COX-2 inhibition is still being investigated in order to develop drugs with safe profiles. This work shows the efficacy and safety profile of two novel benzimidazole piperidine and phenoxy pyridine derivatives in reaching this goal, which would be considered a major achievement in inflammatory therapy. The compounds were evaluated by virtual screening campaign, in vitro cyclooxygenase 1 and 2 (COX-1 and COX-2) inhibition, in vivo carrageenan-induced rat paw edema assay, cytotoxicity against Raw264.7 cells, and histopathological examination of rat paw and stomach. Two new compounds, compound 1 ([(2-{[3-(4-methyl-1H-benzimidazol-2-yl)piperidin-1-yl]carbonyl}phenyl)amino]acetic acid) and compound 2 (ethyl 1-(5-cyano-2-hydroxyphenyl)-4-oxo-5-phenoxy-1,4-dihydropyridine-3-carboxylate) showed high selectivity against COX-2, favourable drug-likeness and ADME descriptors, a lack of cytotoxicity, relived paw edema, and inflammation without noticeable side effects on the stomach. These two compounds are promising new NSAIDs.
Enhancing the Antipsychotic Effect of Risperidone by Increasing Its Binding Affinity to Serotonin Receptor via Picric Acid: A Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Alhomrani Majid , Alsanie Walaa F. , Alamri Abdulhakeem S. , Alyami Hussain , Habeeballah Hamza , Alkhatabi Heba A. , Felimban Raed I. , Haynes John M. , Shakya Sonam , Raafat Bassem M. , Refat Moamen S. , Gaber Ahmed
Published: February 2022

The aim of this study was to assess the utility of inexpensive techniques in evaluating the interactions of risperidone (Ris) with different traditional π-acceptors, with subsequent application of the findings into a Ris pharmaceutical formulation with improved therapeutic properties. Molecular docking calculations were performed using Ris and its different charge-transfer complexes (CT) with picric acid (PA), 2,3-dichloro-5,6-dicyanop-benzoquinon (DDQ), tetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQ), tetracyano ethylene (TCNE), tetrabromo-pquinon (BL), and tetrachloro-p-quinon (CL), as donors, and three receptors (serotonin, dopamine, and adrenergic) as acceptors to study the comparative interactions among them. To refine the docking results and further investigate the molecular processes of receptor–ligand interactions, a molecular dynamics simulation was run with output obtained from AutoDock Vina. Among all investigated complexes, the [(Ris) (PA)]-serotonin (CTcS) complex showed the highest binding energy. Molecular dynamics simulation of the 100 ns run revealed that both the Ris-serotonin (RisS) and CTcS complexes had a stable conformation; however, the CTcS complex was more stable.
Folate-Decorated Cross-Linked Cytochrome c Nanoparticles for Active Targeting of Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma (NSCLC)
Authors: Dominguez-Martinez Irivette , Joaquin-Ovalle Freisa , Ferrer-Acosta Yancy , Griebenow Kai H.
Published: February 2022

The folate receptor alpha (FR), which is overexpressed in solid tumors including NSCLC, can be utilized for active tumor targeting to afford more effective cancer therapies. In this context, cytochrome c (Cyt c) has drawn attention to cancer research because it is non-toxic, yet, when delivered to the cytoplasm of cancer cells, can kill them by inducing apoptosis. Cyt c nanoparticles (NPs, 169 ± 9 nm) were obtained by solvent precipitation with acetonitrile, and stabilized by reversible homo-bifunctional crosslinking to accomplish a Cyt-c-based drug delivery system that combines stimulus-responsive release and active targeting. Cyt c was released under intracellular redox conditions, due to an S–S bond in the NPs linker, while NPs remained intact without any release under extracellular conditions. The NP surface was decorated with a hydrophilic folic acid–polyethylene glycol (FA–PEG) polymer for active targeting. The FA-decorated NPs specifically recognized and killed cancer cells (IC50 = 47.46 µg/mL) that overexpressed FR, but showed no toxicity against FR-negative cells. Confocal microscopy confirmed the preferential uptake and apoptosis induction of our NPs by FR-positive cancer cells. In vivo experiments using a Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) mouse model showed visible NP accumulation within the tumor and inhibited the growth of LLC tumors.
The Effect of Microbubble-Assisted Ultrasound on Molecular Permeability across Cell Barriers
Authors: Rousou Charis , de Maar Josanne , Qiu Boning , van der Wurff-Jacobs Kim , Ruponen Marika , Urtti Arto , Oliveira Sabrina , Moonen Chrit , Storm Gert , Mastrobattista Enrico , Deckers Roel
Published: February 2022

The combination of ultrasound and microbubbles (USMB) has been applied to enhance drug permeability across tissue barriers. Most studies focused on only one physicochemical aspect (i.e., molecular weight of the delivered molecule). Using an in vitro epithelial (MDCK II) cell barrier, we examined the effects of USMB on the permeability of five molecules varying in molecular weight (182 Da to 20 kDa) and hydrophilicity (LogD at pH 7.4 from 1.5 to highly hydrophilic). Treatment of cells with USMB at increasing ultrasound pressures did not have a significant effect on the permeability of small molecules (molecular weight 259 to 376 Da), despite their differences in hydrophilicity (LogD at pH 7.4 from −3.2 to 1.5). The largest molecules (molecular weight 4 and 20 kDa) showed the highest increase in the epithelial permeability (3-7-fold). Simultaneously, USMB enhanced intracellular accumulation of the same molecules. In the case of the clinically relevant anti- C-X-C Chemokine Receptor Type 4 (CXCR4) nanobody (molecular weight 15 kDa), USMB enhanced paracellular permeability by two-fold and increased binding to retinoblastoma cells by five-fold. Consequently, USMB is a potential tool to improve the efficacy and safety of the delivery of drugs to organs protected by tissue barriers, such as the eye and the brain.
Programmed Cell Death Alterations Mediated by Synthetic Indole Chalcone Resulted in Cell Cycle Arrest, DNA Damage, Apoptosis and Signaling Pathway Modulations in Breast Cancer Model
Authors: Michalkova Radka , Kello Martin , Kudlickova Zuzana , Gazdova Maria , Mirossay Ladislav , Mojzisova Gabriela , Mojzis Jan
Published: February 2022

Although new chemotherapy significantly increased the survival of breast cancer (BC) patients, the use of these drugs is often associated with serious toxicity. The discovery of novel anticancer agents for BC therapy is expected. This study was conducted to explore the antiproliferative effect of newly synthesized indole chalcone derivative ZK-CH-11d on human BC cell lines. MTT screening, flow cytometry, Western blot, and fluorescence microscopy were used to evaluate the mode of cell death. ZK-CH-11d significantly suppressed the proliferation of BC cells with minimal effect against non-cancer cells. This effect was associated with cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase and apoptosis induction. Apoptosis was associated with cytochrome c release, increased activity of caspase 3 and caspase 7, PARP cleavage, reduced mitochondrial membrane potential, and activation of the DNA damage response system. Furthermore, our study demonstrated that ZK-CH-11d increased the AMPK phosphorylation with simultaneous inhibition of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway indicating autophagy initiation. However, chloroquine, an autophagy inhibitor, significantly potentiated the cytotoxic effect of ZK-CH-11d in MDA-MB-231 cells indicating that autophagy is not principally involved in the antiproliferative effect of ZK-CH-11d. Taking together the results from our experiments, we assume that autophagy was activated as a defense mechanism in treated cells trying to escape from chalcone-induced harmful effects.
A Review on CAD/CAM Yttria-Stabilized Tetragonal Zirconia Polycrystal (Y-TZP) and Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) and Their Biological Behavior
Authors: Herráez-Galindo Cristina , Rizo-Gorrita María , Maza-Solano Serafín , Serrera-Figallo María-Angeles , Torres-Lagares Daniel
Published: February 2022

Yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal (Y-TZP) and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) are used very often in dentistry. Y-TZP is the most widely used zirconia dental ceramic, and PMMA has classically been used in removable prosthesis manufacturing. Both types of materials are commercialized in CAD/CAM system blocks and represent alternatives for long-lasting temporary (PMMA) or definitive (Y-TZP) implantological abutments. The aim of the present work is to reveal that human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) have a favorable response when they are in contact with Y-TZP or PMMA as a dental implant abutment or implant-supported fixed prosthesis, and also to review their principal characteristics. We conducted an electronic search in the PubMed database. From an initial search of more than 32,000 articles, the application of filters reduced this number to 5104. After reading the abstracts and titles, we reduced the eligible articles to 23. Ultimately, we have included eight articles in this review.
Improving the Dynamic Performance of a Variable Speed DFIG for Energy Conversion Purposes Using an Effective Control System
Authors: Mossa Mahmoud A. , Abdelhamid Mahmoud K. , Hassan Ahmed A. , Bianchi Nicola
Published: February 2022

The present paper aims to introduce an effective control system which enhances the dynamics of a doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) operating at fixed and variable speeds. To visualize the effectiveness of the formulated control algorithm, the performance of the DFIG is evaluated using other control techniques as well. Each control algorithm is primarily described by showing its operation principles and how it is adapted to manage the DFIG’s operation. The main used control strategies are stator voltage-oriented control (SVOC), model predictive current control (MPCC), model predictive direct torque control (MPDTC), and the formulated predictive voltage control (PVC) algorithm. A detailed comparison is performed between the controllers’ performances, through which the advantages and shortcomings of each method are outlined, and finally, the most effective technique is identified amongst them. The obtained results reveal that the proposed PVC approach possesses multiple advantages such as a faster dynamic response and simpler control structure when compared with SVOC and a faster dynamic response, reduced ripples, and reduced computational burdens when compared with the MPCC and MPDTC approaches. In addition, the robustness of the proposed PVC scheme is confirmed by performing extensive performance evaluation tests considering the parameters’ variation.