bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic Accuracy of FibroScan and Factors Affecting Measurements
Authors: Oeda Satoshi , Tanaka Kenichi , Oshima Ayaka , Matsumoto Yasue , Sueoka Eisaburo , Takahashi Hirokazu
Published: November 2020

Evaluating liver steatosis and fibrosis is important for patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Although liver biopsy and pathological assessment is the gold standard for these conditions, this technique has several disadvantages. The evaluation of steatosis and fibrosis using ultrasound B-mode imaging is qualitative and subjective. The liver stiffness measurement (LSM) and controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) determined using FibroScan are the evidence-based non-invasive measures of liver fibrosis and steatosis, respectively. The LSM and CAP measurements are carried out simultaneously, and the median values of more than ten valid measurements are used to quantify liver fibrosis and steatosis. Here, we demonstrate that the reliability of the LSM depends on the interquartile range to median ratio (IQR/Med), but CAP values do not depend on IQR/Med. In addition, the LSM is affected by inflammation, congestion, and cholestasis in addition to fibrosis, while CAP values are affected by the body mass index in addition to steatosis. We also show that the M probe provides higher LSM values but lower CAP values than the XL probe in the same population. However, there was no statistically significant difference between the diagnostic accuracies of the two probes. These findings are important to understand the reliability of FibroScan measurements and the factors influencing measurement values for all patients.
Coherence and Entanglement Dynamics in Training Variational Quantum Perceptron
Authors: Namkung Min , Kwon Younghun
Published: November 2020

In quantum computation, what contributes supremacy of quantum computation? One of the candidates is known to be a quantum coherence because it is a resource used in the various quantum algorithms. We reveal that quantum coherence contributes to the training of variational quantum perceptron proposed by Y. Du et al., arXiv:1809.06056 (2018). In detail, we show that in the first part of the training of the variational quantum perceptron, the quantum coherence of the total system is concentrated in the index register and in the second part, the Grover algorithm consumes the quantum coherence in the index register. This implies that the quantum coherence distribution and the quantum coherence depletion are required in the training of variational quantum perceptron. In addition, we investigate the behavior of entanglement during the training of variational quantum perceptron. We show that the bipartite concurrence between feature and index register decreases since Grover operation is only performed on the index register. Also, we reveal that the concurrence between the two qubits of index register increases as the variational quantum perceptron is trained.
A GIS Approach Land Suitability and Availability Analysis of Jatropha Curcas L. Growth in Mexico as a Potential Source for Biodiesel Production
Authors: Cortez-Núñez Jocelyn Alejandra , Gutiérrez-Castillo María Eugenia , Mena-Cervantes Violeta Y. , Terán-Cuevas Ángel Refugio , Tovar-Gálvez Luis Raúl , Velasco Juan
Published: November 2020

Jatropha curcas L. (JCL) commercial plantations in Mexico, one of the most important JCL origin centers, have failed due to a variety of biological, political and technical factors affecting their productivity. This study explores feasible sites of JCL cultivation as a potential source for biodiesel production in Mexico, given agroclimatic and agroecological considerations. We propose a GIS-based approach for estimating suitable and available lands to grow JCL by integrating an Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) in the ArcGIS software. Spatial analysis combined multiple data, different evaluation criteria, three land availability classes (high, medium and low potential) and took into account ecological, ethical, and political restrictions, and considering two scenarios with different restriction levels. Suitability and availability maps were generated using agroclimatic information (climatic, land use/soil, and climate change and extreme weather events risk) together with other socioeconomic factors. Approximately 15.3% of Mexican territory is available for JCL production yielding a biodiesel production of 9.683 Mm3/year. Amelioration of the available land is necessary to improve land selection. GIS-based analysis represents a first approach to establish a successful biodiesel project that avoids, competition with food or feed production, maintains biodiversity conservation, and promotes biofuel supply chain development. This procedure would also be applicable to other energy crops such as oil palm and Ricinus communis.
Roadblocks to Low Temperature District Heating
Authors: Millar Michael-Allan , Elrick Bruce , Jones Greg , Yu Zhibin , Burnside Neil M.
Published: November 2020

Energy usage in buildings is coming increasingly under the spotlight as carbon policy focus shifts towards the utilization of thermal energy. In the UK, heating and hot water accounts for around 40% of energy consumption and 20% of greenhouse gas emissions. Heating is typically produced onsite, making widescale carbon or energetic improvements challenging. District heating networks (DHNs) can offer significant carbon reduction for many users but can only be implemented if the end user buildings have good thermal energy efficiency. This greatly limits the ability to implement advancing 4th and 5th generation DHNs, which are the most advanced systems available. We elucidate the current state of thermal efficiency in buildings in the UK and provide recommendations for necessary building requirements and modifications in order to accommodate 4th and 5th generation district heating. We conclude that key sectors must be addressed including creating a skilled workforce, producing relevant metrics and benchmarks, and providing financial support for early stage design exploration.
New Protection Scheme in Loop Distribution System with Distributed Generation
Authors: Seo Hun-Chul
Published: November 2020

Loop distribution systems are increasingly used for reasons such as increased distributed generation (DG) and increased demand for a reliable and high-quality power supply. Because the loop distribution system involves bidirectional power flow, the method for protection of the radial distribution system cannot be applied. Therefore, a protection method is proposed herein for loop distribution systems. In this study, the existence of DG is also considered. According to the proposed method, the fault point is estimated on the basis of the equivalent circuit of the distribution system. Then, the fault section is determined and separated from the distribution system. The separation of DG is determined depending on whether the frequency and voltage are maintained within the steady state ranges. The proposed method is modelled and verified using the Electromagnetic Transients Program. Simulations according to the fault location are performed and analyzed. The results show that the method accurately determines the fault section so that normal power can be supplied to the healthy sections in the distribution system.
An Analytical Model for Production Analysis of Hydraulically Fractured Shale Gas Reservoirs Considering Irregular Stimulated Regions
Authors: Qiu Kaixuan , Li Heng
Published: November 2020

Shale gas reservoirs are typically developed by multistage, propped hydraulic fractures. The induced fractures have a complex geometry and can be represented by a high permeability region near each fracture, also called stimulated region. In this paper, a new integrative analytical solution coupled with gas adsorption, non-Darcy flow effect is derived for shale gas reservoirs. The modified pseudo-pressure and pseudo-time are defined to linearize the nonlinear partial differential equations (PDEs) and thus the governing PDEs are transformed into ordinary differential equations (ODEs) by integration, instead of the Laplace transform. The rate vs. pseudo-time solution in real-time space can be obtained, instead of using the numerical inversion for Laplace transform. The analytical model is validated by comparison with the numerical model. According to the fitting results, the calculation accuracy of analytic solution is almost 99%. Besides the computational convenience, another advantage of the model is that it has been validated to be feasible to estimate the pore volume of hydraulic region, stimulated region, and matrix region, and even the shape of regions is irregular and asymmetrical for multifractured horizontal wells. The relative error between calculated volume and given volume is less than 10%, which meets the engineering requirements. The model is finally applied to field production data for history matching and forecasting.
Optimal Energy Efficiency Tracking in the Energy-Stored Quasi-Z-Source Inverter
Authors: Hu Sideng , Liang Zipeng , Zhou Jing , Yu Xiaoli
Published: November 2020

In this paper, the interaction between the energy storage (ES) power distribution and system efficiency enhancement is researched based on the energy stored quasi-Z-source inverter. The corresponding current counteraction, stress reduction, power loss profile, and efficiency enhancement around the embedded energy storage units are studied in details. Firstly, the current counteraction effect on the device current is presented with the embedded ES source. The corresponding reduction in the device current stress is revealed. Then, the detailed device power loss expressions with current redistribution in the impedance network are explored mathematically. A quasi-inverted-trapezoidal power loss profile is found with the embedded source power distribution. To further increase the overall system efficiency, an optimal energy efficiency tracking strategy is proposed for the ES-qZSI (energy-stored quasi-Z-source inverter) based on the power distribution control. Both the simulation and the experiment verified that the power loss is reduced by over 40% through the proposed efficiency enhancement method. The device current and loss analysis for the embedding of energy storage can also be extended to the operating range optimization in other ES systems.
Numerical Investigation Energy Conversion Performance of Tin-Based Perovskite Solar Cells Using Cell Capacitance Simulator
Authors: Gan Yongjin , Bi Xueguang , Liu Yucheng , Qin Binyi , Li Qingliu , Jiang Qubo , Mo Pei
Published: November 2020

The power conversion efficiency of lead halide perovskite solar cells has been elevated to 25.2%. However, the toxicity of lead and the complex fabrication process of those cells considerably hinder the commercial application of such solar cells. Therefore, lead-free solar cells with comparable power conversion efficiency with a much lower environmental impact have recently attracted enormous attention in both academia and industry. This paper presents a theoretical study to assess the energy conversion capacity of lead-free perovskite solar cells with MASnI3 perovskite as its absorber layer using solar cell capacitance simulator (SCAPS). In particular, the effects of materials of the perovskite solar cells’ electron transport layers (ETLs) and hole transport layers (HTLs) on their energy conversion performance are elaborated. Our results show that Cd0.5Zn0.5S and MASnBr3 are the most suitable materials for ETL and HTL, respectively. It is also found from that the solar cell performance can be further enhanced through optimizing the thickness and defect density of its absorber layer. Moreover, the effects of defect densities in interface layers are investigated. In addition, the effects of ETL and HTL doping densities as well as influences of the back-contact work function and operating temperature of the tin-based perovskite solar cells are discussed. Finally, a glass substrate/FTO/Cd0.5Zn0.5S (ETL)/MASnI3/MASnBr3 (HTL)/back-contact solar cell with a power conversion efficiency of 23.86% is recommended for further optimization.
The Motivation, Strategies, and Barriers for Adopting Social Media Marketing in the Flower Retailing Business
Authors: Chen Li-Chun , Huang Li-Chun
Published: November 2020

Florists have been adopting social media as a new marketing instrument to promote their business. However, academic research has rarely looked into the existing state of that adoption. Consequently, several fundamental problems remain unknown regarding the application of social media marketing (SMM) among florists, which may limit the development of the flower retailing business in the current social media era. In seeking to address this deficiency, this study aimed to investigate florists’ motivations, strategies, and perceived performance in relation to the application of SMM, as well as to explore the barriers faced by florists regarding the adoption of SMM. The authors implemented these objectives by interviewing 35 flower shop owners who each had established a brand page on Facebook. The qualitative data obtained from the interviews were analyzed using a grounded hermeneutic editing approach. The study’s results revealed that even though there were different motivations for florists to adopt social media marketing, including increasing brand exposure, improving customer relationship, and reducing the cost of advertising, showing expertise in floral design to attract consumers was the most common motivation stressed by the interviewees. The strategies mostly used by florists in managing their Facebook brand pages included providing high quality posts, cross-industry advertising, and switching consumers from online questions to a physical store visit. The most significant benefit perceived by florists regarding the use of a Facebook brand page was the development of new customers. Although the interviewees recognized the benefits of adopting SMM, some of them faced great incompatibility in labor source for that adoption. In addition, most interviewees focused on achieving general marketing goals rather than more advanced functions, such as business intelligence, in the application of SMM. The study results implied that the interviews mostly saw Facebook brand pages as a social network platform for increasing current sales volume, rather than for reaching a long-term quality customer relationship, which has deviated from the essence of social media marketing, and thus, limiting the synergy of the application of SMM in the flower retail sector.
Soil Metaproteomics for the Study of the Relationships Between Microorganisms and Plants: A Review of Extraction Protocols and Ecological Insights
Authors: Tartaglia Maria , Bastida Felipe , Sciarrillo Rosaria , Guarino Carmine
Published: November 2020

Soil is a complex matrix where biotic and abiotic components establish a still unclear network involving bacteria, fungi, archaea, protists, protozoa, and roots that are in constant communication with each other. Understanding these interactions has recently focused on metagenomics, metatranscriptomics and less on metaproteomics studies. Metaproteomic allows total extraction of intracellular and extracellular proteins from soil samples, providing a complete picture of the physiological and functional state of the “soil community”. The advancement of high-performance mass spectrometry technologies was more rapid than the development of ad hoc extraction techniques for soil proteins. The protein extraction from environmental samples is biased due to interfering substances and the lower amount of proteins in comparison to cell cultures. Soil sample preparation and extraction methodology are crucial steps to obtain high-quality resolution and yields of proteins. This review focuses on the several soil protein extraction protocols to date to highlight the methodological challenges and critical issues for the application of proteomics to soil samples. This review concludes that improvements in soil protein extraction, together with the employment of ad hoc metagenome database, may enhance the identification of proteins with low abundance or from non-dominant populations and increase our capacity to predict functional changes in soil.
Downregulation of the Polycomb-Associated Methyltransferase Ezh2 during Maturation of Hippocampal Neurons Is Mediated by MicroRNAs Let-7 and miR-124
Authors: Guajardo Laura , Aguilar Rodrigo , Bustos Fernando J. , Nardocci Gino , Gutiérrez Rodrigo A. , van Zundert Brigitte , Montecino Martin
Published: November 2020

Ezh2 is a catalytic subunit of the polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) which mediates epigenetic gene silencing through depositing the mark histone H3 lysine 27 trimethylation (H3K27me3) at target genomic sequences. Previous studies have demonstrated that Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 2 (Ezh2) was differentially expressed during maturation of hippocampal neurons; in immature neurons, Ezh2 was abundantly expressed, whereas in mature neurons the expression Ezh2 was significantly reduced. Here, we report that Ezh2 is downregulated by microRNAs (miRs) that are expressed during the hippocampal maturation process. We show that, in mature hippocampal neurons, lethal-7 (let-7) and microRNA-124 (miR-124) are robustly expressed and can target cognate motifs at the 3′-UTR of the Ezh2 gene sequence to downregulate Ezh2 expression. Together, these data demonstrate that the PRC2 repressive activity during hippocampal maturation is controlled through a post-transcriptional mechanism that mediates Ezh2 downregulation in mature neurons.
The Interplay between Fe3O4 Superparamagnetic Nanoparticles, Sodium Butyrate, and Folic Acid for Intracellular Transport
Authors: Cambria Maria Teresa , Villaggio Giusy , Laudani Samuele , Pulvirenti Luca , Federico Concetta , Saccone Salvatore , Condorelli Guglielmo Guido , Sinatra Fulvia
Published: November 2020

Combined treatments which use nanoparticles and drugs could be a synergistic strategy for the treatment of a variety of cancers to overcome drug resistance, low efficacy, and high-dose-induced systemic toxicity. In this study, the effects on human colon adenocarcinoma cells of surface modified Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) in combination with sodium butyrate (NaBu), added as a free formulation, were examined demonstrating that the co-delivery produced a cytotoxic effect on malignant cells. Two different MNP coatings were investigated: a simple polyethylene glycol (PEG) layer and a mixed folic acid (FA) and PEG layer. Our results demonstrated that MNPs with FA (FA-PEG@MNPs) have a better cellular uptake than the ones without FA (PEG@MNPs), probably due to the presence of folate that acts as an activator of folate receptors (FRs) expression. However, in the presence of NaBu, the difference between the two types of MNPs was reduced. These similar behaviors for both MNPs likely occurred because of the differentiation induced by butyrate that increases the uptake of ferromagnetic nanoparticles. Moreover, we observed a strong decrease of cell viability in a NaBu dose-dependent manner. Taking into account these results, the cooperation of multifunctional MNPs with NaBu, taking into consideration the particular cancer-cell properties, can be a valuable tool for future cancer treatment.
Intermittent Fasting Aggravates Lupus Nephritis through Increasing Survival and Autophagy of Antibody Secreting Cells in MRL/lpr Mice
Authors: Hong Seung-Min , Lee Jaeseon , Jang Se Gwang , Song Youngseok , Kim Minjun , Lee Jennifer , Cho Mi-La , Kwok Seung-Ki , Park Sung-Hwan
Published: November 2020

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease in which the main contributors to organ damage are antibodies against autoantigens, such as double-stranded DNA (dsDNA). Calorie restriction and intermittent fasting (IF) have been shown to improve autoimmune disease symptoms in patients and animal models. Here, we tested the hypothesis that IF might improve symptoms in MRL/lpr mice, which spontaneously develop an SLE-like disease. Groups of mice were fed every other day (IF) or provided food ad libitum (controls), and various lupus-associated clinicopathological parameters were analyzed for up to 28 weeks. Contrary to expectations, anti-dsDNA antibody levels, immune complex deposition in the kidney, and glomerular injury were higher in the IF group than the control group, although there were no differences in spleen and lymph node weights between groups. Proteinuria was also worsened in the IF group. IF also increased the abundance of B cells, plasmablasts, and plasma cells and elevated autophagy in plasma cells in the spleen and lymph nodes. Secretion of anti-dsDNA antibody by splenocytes in vitro was reduced by chloroquine-induced inhibition of autophagy. These results suggest that IF exacerbates lupus nephritis in MRL/lpr mice by increasing autoantibody immune complex formation.
A Targeted Bioinformatics Assessment of Adrenocortical Carcinoma Reveals Prognostic Implications of GABA System Gene Expression
Authors: Knott Erika L. , Leidenheimer Nancy J.
Published: November 2020

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare but deadly cancer for which few treatments exist. Here, we have undertaken a targeted bioinformatics study of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) ACC dataset focusing on the 30 genes encoding the γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) system—an under-studied, evolutionarily-conserved system that is an emerging potential player in cancer progression. Our analysis identified a subset of ACC patients whose tumors expressed a distinct GABA system transcriptome. Transcript levels of ABAT (encoding a key GABA shunt enzyme), were upregulated in over 40% of tumors, and this correlated with several favorable clinical outcomes including patient survival; while enrichment and ontology analysis implicated two cancer-related biological pathways involved in metastasis and immune response. The phenotype associated with ABAT upregulation revealed a potential metabolic heterogeneity among ACC tumors associated with enhanced mitochondrial metabolism. Furthermore, many GABAA receptor subunit-encoding transcripts were expressed, including two (GABRB2 and GABRD) prognostic for patient survival. Transcripts encoding GABAB receptor subunits and GABA transporters were also ubiquitously expressed. The GABA system transcriptome of ACC tumors is largely mirrored in the ACC NCI-H295R cell line, suggesting that this cell line may be appropriate for future functional studies investigating the role of the GABA system in ACC cell growth phenotypes and metabolism.
Hydroxyl Group Separation Distances in Anti-Freeze Compounds and Their Effects on Ice Nucleation
Authors: Bleszynski Monika , Reil Matt , Kumosa Maciej
Published: November 2020

Since the discovery of biological antifreeze glycoproteins (AFGPs), which can inhibit ice nucleation, there has been considerable interest in understanding their mechanisms and mimicking them in synthetic polymers. In this study, we used molecular dynamics simulations of modified polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) compounds to show that the hydroxyl (OH) group distance is a key factor in whether certain compounds promote or inhibit ice nucleation. A hydroxyl distance smaller than ~2.8 Å but greater than ~7.1 Å in modified PVA (MPVA) compounds was associated with the promotion of ice nucleation, while a hydroxyl group separation distance of approximately ~5.0 Å was correlated with a delay in ice nucleation, owing to changes in the energy of the system. Thus, these results may help explain some of the mechanisms of current known anti-freeze compounds and may have implications for designing new anti-freeze compounds in the future.
Dissection of P2X4 and P2X7 Receptor Current Components in BV-2 Microglia
Authors: Trang Mira , Schmalzing Günther , Müller Christa E. , Markwardt Fritz
Published: November 2020

Microglia cells represent the immune system of the central nervous system. They become activated by ATP released from damaged and inflamed tissue via purinergic receptors. Ionotropic purinergic P2X4 and P2X7 receptors have been shown to be involved in neurological inflammation and pain sensation. Whether the two receptors assemble exclusively as homotrimers or also as heterotrimers is still a matter of debate. We investigated the expression of P2X receptors in BV-2 microglia cells applying the whole-cell voltage-clamp technique. We dissected P2X4 and P2X7 receptor-mediated current components by using specific P2X4 and P2X7 receptor blockers and by their characteristic current kinetics. We found that P2X4 and P2X7 receptors are activated independently from each other, indicating that P2X4/P2X7 heteromers are not of functional significance in these cells. The pro-inflammatory mediators lipopolysaccharide and interferon γ, if applied in combination, upregulated P2X4, but not P2X7 receptor-dependent current components also arguing against phenotypically relevant heteromerization of P2X4 and P2X7 receptor subunits.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of Udp-Glucuronosyltransferases in the Whitefly Bemisia Tabaci (Gennadius) (HemipterA: Aleyrodidae)
Authors: Guo Litao , Xie Wen , Yang Zezhong , Xu Jianping , Zhang Youjun
Published: November 2020

Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) is an important agricultural pest worldwide. Uridine diphosphate (UDP)-glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs) are one of the largest and most ubiquitous groups of proteins. Because of their role in detoxification, insect UGTs are attracting increasing attention. In this study, we identified and analyzed UGT genes in B. tabaci MEAM1 to investigate their potential roles in host adaptation and reproductive capacity. Based on phylogenetic and structural analyses, we identified 76 UGT genes in the B. tabaci MEAM1 genome. RNA-seq and real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) revealed differential expression patterns of these genes at different developmental stages and in association with four host plants (cabbage, cucumber, cotton and tomato). RNA interference results of selected UGTs showed that, when UGT352A1, UGT352B1, and UGT354A1 were respectively silenced by feeding on dsRNA, the fecundity of B. tabaci MEAM1 was reduced, suggesting that the expressions of these three UGT genes in this species may be associated with host-related fecundity. Together, our results provide detailed UGTs data in B.tabaci and help guide future studies on the mechanisms of host adaptation by B.tabaci.
Metal Homeostasis and Gas Exchange Dynamics in Pisum sativum L. Exposed to Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Skiba Elżbieta , Pietrzak Monika , Gapińska Magdalena , Wolf Wojciech M.
Published: November 2020

Cerium dioxide nanoparticles are pollutants of emerging concern. They are rarely immobilized in the environment. This study extends our work on Pisum sativum L. as a model plant, cultivated worldwide, and is well suited for investigating additive interactions induced by nanoceria. Hydroponic cultivation, which prompts accurate plant growth control and three levels of CeO2 supplementation, were applied, namely, 100, 200, and 500 mg (Ce)/L. Phytotoxicity was estimated by fresh weights and photosynthesis parameters. Additionally, Ce, Cu, Zn, Mn, Fe, Ca, and Mg contents were analyzed by high-resolution continuum source atomic absorption and inductively coupled plasma optical emission techniques. Analysis of variance has proved that CeO2 nanoparticles affected metals uptake. In the roots, it decreased for Cu, Zn, Mn, Fe, and Mg, while a reversed process was observed for Ca. The latter is absorbed more intensively, but translocation to above-ground parts is hampered. At the same time, nanoparticulate CeO2 reduced Cu, Zn, Mn, Fe, and Ca accumulation in pea shoots. The lowest Ce concentration boosted the photosynthesis rate, while the remaining treatments did not induce significant changes. Plant growth stimulation was observed only for the 100 mg/L. To our knowledge, this is the first study that demonstrates the effect of nanoceria on photosynthesis-related parameters in peas.
The Vehicle Determines the Destination: The Significance of Seminal Plasma Factors for Male Fertility
Authors: Wang Fengli , Yang Weina , Ouyang Sijin , Yuan Shuiqiao
Published: November 2020

Of all human infertility cases, up to 50% show contributing factors leading to defects in the male reproductive physiology. Seminal plasma (SP) is the biological fluid derived from the male accessory sex gland which carries spermatozoa passing throughout the male and female reproductive tract during ejaculation. It contains a complicated set of heterogeneous molecular structures, including proteins, cell-free nucleic acid (DNA, microRNA and LncRNA), and small-molecule metabolites as well as inorganic chemicals (ions). For a long time, the substantial significance of seminal plasma factors’ functions has been underestimated, which is restricted to spermatozoa transport and protection. Notably, significant advancements have been made in dissecting seminal plasma components, revealing new insights into multiple aspects of sperm function, as well as fertilization and pregnancy outcomes in recent years. In this review, we summarize the state-of-art discoveries regarding SP compositions and their implications in male fertility, particularly describing the novel understanding of seminal plasma components and related modifications using “omics” approaches and mainly focusing on proteome and RNA-seq data in the latest decade. Meanwhile, we highlighted the proposed mechanism of the regulation of SP molecules on immunomodulation in the female reproductive tract. Moreover, we also discussed the proteins investigated as non-invasive diagnosis biomarkers for male infertility in the clinic.
Molecular Biomarkers for Celiac Disease: Past, Present and Future
Authors: Ramírez-Sánchez Aarón D. , Tan Ineke L. , Gonera-de Jong B.C. , Visschedijk Marijn C. , Jonkers Iris , Withoff Sebo
Published: November 2020

Celiac disease (CeD) is a complex immune-mediated disorder that is triggered by dietary gluten in genetically predisposed individuals. CeD is characterized by inflammation and villous atrophy of the small intestine, which can lead to gastrointestinal complaints, malnutrition, and malignancies. Currently, diagnosis of CeD relies on serology (antibodies against transglutaminase and endomysium) and small-intestinal biopsies. Since small-intestinal biopsies require invasive upper-endoscopy, and serology cannot predict CeD in an early stage or be used for monitoring disease after initiation of a gluten-free diet, the search for non-invasive biomarkers is ongoing. Here, we summarize current and up-and-coming non-invasive biomarkers that may be able to predict, diagnose, and monitor the progression of CeD. We further discuss how current and emerging techniques, such as (single-cell) transcriptomics and genomics, can be used to uncover the pathophysiology of CeD and identify non-invasive biomarkers.
Tyrosine Kinase Receptors in Oncology
Authors: Esteban-Villarrubia Jorge , Soto-Castillo Juan José , Pozas Javier , San Román-Gil María , Orejana-Martín Inmaculada , Torres-Jiménez Javier , Carrato Alfredo , Alonso-Gordoa Teresa , Molina-Cerrillo Javier
Published: November 2020

Tyrosine kinase receptors (TKR) comprise more than 60 molecules that play an essential role in the molecular pathways, leading to cell survival and differentiation. Consequently, genetic alterations of TKRs may lead to tumorigenesis and, therefore, cancer development. The discovery and improvement of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) against TKRs have entailed an important step in the knowledge-expansion of tumor physiopathology as well as an improvement in the cancer treatment based on molecular alterations over many tumor types. The purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive review of the different families of TKRs and their role in the expansion of tumor cells and how TKIs can stop these pathways to tumorigenesis, in combination or not with other therapies. The increasing growth of this landscape is driving us to strengthen the development of precision oncology with clinical trials based on molecular-based therapy over a histology-based one, with promising preliminary results.
Brain Endothelial P-Glycoprotein Level Is Reduced in Parkinson’s Disease via a Vitamin D Receptor-Dependent Pathway
Authors: Kim Hyojung , Shin Jeong-Yong , Lee Yun-Song , Yun Seung Pil , Maeng Han-Joo , Lee Yunjong
Published: November 2020

The progressive neurodegeneration in Parkinson’s disease (PD) is accompanied by neuroinflammation and endothelial vascular impairment. Although the vitamin D receptor (VDR) is expressed in both dopamine neurons and brain endothelial cells, its role in the regulation of endothelial biology has not been explored in the context of PD. In a 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-induced PD mouse model, we observed reduced transcription of the VDR and its downstream target genes, CYP24 and MDR1a. The 6-OHDA-induced transcriptional repression of these genes were recovered after the VDR ligand—1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) treatment. Similarly, reduced vascular protein expression of P-glycoprotein (P-gp), encoded by MDR1a, after 6-OHDA administration was reversed by 1,25(OH)2D3. Moreover, marked reduction of endothelial P-gp expression with concomitant α-synuclein aggregation was found in a combinatorial AAV-αSyn/αSyn preformed fibril (PFF) injection mouse model and postmortem PD brains. Supporting the direct effect of α-synuclein aggregation on endothelial biology, PFF treatment of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) was sufficient to induce α-synuclein aggregation and repress transcription of the VDR. PFF-induced P-gp downregulation and impaired functional activity in HUVECs completely recovered after 1,25(OH)2D3 treatment. Taken together, our results suggest that a dysfunctional VDR-P-gp pathway could be a potential target for the maintenance of vascular homeostasis in PD pathological conditions.
Three-Dimensional Nuclear Telomere Profiling as a Biomarker for Recurrence in Oligodendrogliomas: A Pilot Study
Authors: Gadji Macoura , Mathur Shubha , Bélanger Brigitte , Jangamreddy Jaganmohan Reddy , Lamoureux Josée , Tsanaclis Ana Maria Crous , Fortin David , Drouin Régen , Mai Sabine
Published: November 2020

Mechanisms of recurrence in oligodendrogliomas are poorly understood. Recurrence might be driven by telomere dysfunction-mediated genomic instability. In a pilot study, we investigated ten patients with oligodendrogliomas at the time of diagnosis (first surgery) and after recurrence (second surgery) using three-dimensional nuclear telomere analysis performed with quantitative software TeloView® (Telo Genomics Corp, Toronto, Ontario, Canada). 1p/19q deletion status of each patient was determined by fluorescent in situ hybridization on touch preparation slides. We found that a very specific 3D telomeric profile was associated with two pathways of recurrence in oligodendrogliomas independent of their 1p/19q status: a first group of 8 patients displayed significantly different 3D telomere profiles between both surgeries (p < 0.0001). Their recurrence happened at a mean of 231.375 ± 117.42 days and a median time to progression (TTP) of 239 days, a period defined as short-term recurrence; and a second group of three patients displayed identical 3D telomere profiles between both surgery samples (p > 0.05). Their recurrence happened at a mean of 960.666 ± 86.19 days and a median TTP of 930 days, a period defined as long-term recurrence. Our results suggest a potential link between nuclear telomere architecture and telomere dysfunction with time to recurrence in oligodendrogliomas, independently of the 1p/19q status.
Redox-Active Manganese Pincers for Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: Petersen Haley A. , Myren Tessa H. T. , Luca Oana R.
Published: November 2020

The decrease of total amount of atmospheric CO2 is an important societal challenge in which CO2 reduction has an important role to play. Electrocatalytic CO2 reduction with homogeneous catalysts is based on highly tunable catalyst design and exploits an abundant C1 source to make valuable products such as fuels and fuel precursors. These methods can also take advantage of renewable electricity as a green reductant. Mn-based catalysts offer these benefits while incorporating a relatively cheap and abundant first-row transition metal. Historically, interest in this field started with Mn(bpy-R)(CO)3X, whose performance matched that of its Re counterparts while achieving substantially lower overpotentials. This review examines an emerging class of homogeneous Mn-based electrocatalysts for CO2 reduction, Mn complexes with meridional tridentate coordination also known as Mn pincers, most of which contain redox-active ligands that enable multi-electron catalysis. Although there are relatively few examples in the literature thus far, these catalysts bring forth new catalytic mechanisms not observed for the well-established Mn(bpy-R)(CO)3X catalysts, and show promising reactivity for future studies.
Applying Geomorphic Principles in the Design of Mountain Biking Singletracks: Conceptual Analysis and Mathematical Modeling
Authors: Stavi Ilan , Yizhaq Hezi
Published: November 2020

Mountain biking, also known as singletracking, is an emerging sector in outdoor recreation activities. Experience shows that although bicycling is considered a low-impact activity, singletracking may have adverse environmental footprints. Here, we review and conceptually analyze the forces applied on singletracks, and implement mathematical modeling of these forces, for a range of climatic conditions and geographic settings. Specifically, we focus on the hydrological and geomorphic impacts of singletracking, and highlight the importance of applying geomorphic principles in their design. Also, we demonstrate specific measures for establishing singletracks on hillslopes and in ephemeral stream channels. We discuss how climate, topography, surface roughness, hydrological connectivity, and pedology determine the processes of water runoff and soil erosion on singletrack trails. Further, we demonstrate how riders’ behavior determines the rate of shearing, wearing, compaction, deformation, and rutting of the singletrack, as well as the expansion of physical damages to the track’s surroundings. These conditions and effects determine the durability of singletracks, with implications for maintenance requirements over time. The specific implications of the emerging sector of electric mountain bikes on singletrack durability are discussed. Insights of this paper will benefit landscape designers and land managers aiming to foster ecotourism and sustainable recreation opportunities.
The Qualitative and Quantitative Compositions of Phenolic Compounds in Fruits of Lithuanian Heirloom Apple Cultivars
Authors: Butkevičiūtė Aurita , Liaudanskas Mindaugas , Kviklys Darius , Gelvonauskienė Dalia , Janulis Valdimaras
Published: November 2020

As the interest in heirloom cultivars of apple trees, their fruit, and processed products is growing worldwide, studies of the qualitative and quantitative composition of biological compounds are important for the evaluation of the quality and nutritional properties of the apples. Studies on the variations in the chemical composition of phenolic compounds characterized by a versatile biological effect are important when researching the genetic heritage of the heirloom cultivars in order to increase the cultivation of such cultivars in orchards. A variation in the qualitative and quantitative composition of phenolic compounds was found in apple samples of cultivars included in the Lithuanian collection of genetic resources. By the high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method flavan-3-ols (procyanidin B1, procyanidin B2, procyanidin C2, (+)-catechin and (−)-epicatechin), flavonols (rutin, hyperoside, quercitrin, isoquercitrin, reynoutrin and avicularin), chlorogenic acids and phloridzin were identified and quantified in fruit samples of heirloom apple cultivars grown in Lithuania. The highest sum of the identified phenolic compounds (3.82 ± 0.53 mg/g) was found in apple fruit samples of the ‘Koštelė’ cultivar
Pharmacist’s Intervention Considering the Prognosis for a Terminal Cancer Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Okada Masahiro , Okazaki Kazuko , Kimura Keisuke , Sugihara Hiroki , Murakami Fumiyoshi , Okamoto Shinya , Hoshino Yoshinori , Goto Yuka , Banshoya Kengo , Onoda Tadashi , Takei Eisuke , Takeda Shuso , Sugihara Narumi
Published: November 2020

Prognostic prediction has been reported to affect the decision of doctors and non-physician health care providers such as nurses, social workers, pastors, and hospice volunteers on the selection of appropriate medical interventions. This was a case of a 65-year-old woman who presented with a poor oral intake. The patient had a history of sigmoid colon cancer with abdominal wall metastasis and peritoneal dissemination. On the day of admission, nausea, anorexia, and malaise were noted, requiring immediate intervention. The patient’s prognosis was predicted using the Palliative Prognostic Index. The pharmacist suggested the use of dexamethasone tablets in order to alleviate the patient’s symptoms. Indeed, the administration of dexamethasone alleviated the symptoms of nausea, loss of appetite, and malaise. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report to demonstrate that prognosis prediction is important not only for other medical staff but also for pharmacists when deciding the need to initiate a treatment and continue such treatment, and when providing pharmacist interventions.
Recent Advances in Adventitious Root Formation in Chestnut
Authors: Vielba Jesús M. , Vidal Nieves , José M. Carmen San , Rico Saleta , Sánchez Conchi
Published: November 2020

The genus Castanea includes several tree species that are relevant because of their geographical extension and their multipurpose character, that includes nut and timber production. However, commercial exploitation of the trees is hindered by several factors, particularly by their limited regeneration ability. Regardless of recent advances, there exists a serious limitation for the propagation of elite genotypes of chestnut due to decline of rooting ability as the tree ages. In the present review, we summarize the research developed in this genus during the last three decades concerning the formation of adventitious roots (ARs). Focusing on cuttings and in vitro microshoots, we gather the information available on several species, particularly C. sativa, C. dentata and the hybrid C.sativa × C. crenata, and analyze the influence of several factors on the achievements of the applied protocols, including genotype, auxin treatment, light regime and rooting media. We also pay attention to the acclimation phase, as well as compile the information available about biochemical and molecular related aspects. Furthermore, we considerate promising biotechnological approaches that might enable the improvement of the current protocols.
Benjamin Hoadly, Samuel Clarke, and the Ethics of the Bangorian Controversy: Church, State, and the Moral Law
Authors: Daniel Dafydd Mills
Published: November 2020

The Bangorian controversy has been described as ‘the most bitter ideological conflict of the [eighteenth] century’ (J.C.D. Clark). However, while its impact is widely recognised, there are few studies dedicated to the controversy itself. Moreover, the figure at the centre of it all—Benjamin Hoadly, the Bishop of Bangor—has not always been taken seriously. Such scholars as Norman Sykes, G.R. Cragg, and B.W. Young have dismissed Hoadly as an opportunistic ‘political bishop’, rather than an adept theological thinker. By contrast, this article demonstrates that Hoadly’s Bangorian writings were embedded within the ethical rationalist moral theology of Isaac Newton’s friend, and defender against Gottfried Leibniz, Samuel Clarke. As a follower of Clarke, Hoadly objected to the doctrine of apostolic succession, and to the existence of religious conformity laws in Church and state, because they prevented Christianity from being what he thought it ought to be: a religion of conscience.
Cherry Tomato Production in Intelligent Greenhouses—Sensors and AI for Control of Climate, Irrigation, Crop Yield, and Quality
Authors: Hemming Silke , Zwart Feije de , Elings Anne , Petropoulou Anna , Righini Isabella
Published: November 2020

Greenhouses and indoor farming systems play an important role in providing fresh and nutritious food for the growing global population. Farms are becoming larger and greenhouse growers need to make complex decisions to maximize production and minimize resource use while meeting market requirements. However, highly skilled labor is increasingly lacking in the greenhouse sector. Moreover, extreme events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, can make farms temporarily less accessible. This highlights the need for more autonomous and remote-control strategies for greenhouse production. This paper describes and analyzes the results of the second “Autonomous Greenhouse Challenge”. In this challenge, an experiment was conducted in six high-tech greenhouse compartments during a period of six months of cherry tomato growing. The primary goal of the greenhouse operation was to maximize net profit, by controlling the greenhouse climate and crop with AI techniques. Five international teams with backgrounds in AI and horticulture were challenged in a competition to operate their own compartment remotely. They developed intelligent algorithms and use sensor data to determine climate setpoints and crop management strategy. All AI supported teams outperformed a human-operated greenhouse that served as reference. From the results obtained by the teams and from the analysis of the different climate-crop strategies, it was possible to detect challenges and opportunities for the future implementation of remote-control systems in greenhouse production.
Advanced RuO2 Thin Films for pH Sensing Application
Authors: Yao Xinyue , Vepsäläinen Mikko , Isa Fabio , Martin Phil , Munroe Paul , Bendavid Avi
Published: November 2020

RuO2 thin films were prepared using magnetron sputtering under different deposition conditions, including direct current (DC) and radio frequency (RF) discharges, metallic/oxide cathodes, different substrate temperatures, pressures, and deposition times. The surface morphology, residual stress, composition, crystal structure, mechanical properties, and pH performances of these RuO2 thin films were investigated. The RuO2 thin films RF sputtered from a metallic cathode at 250 °C exhibited good pH sensitivity of 56.35 mV/pH. However, these films were rougher, less dense, and relatively softer. However, the DC sputtered RuO2 thin film prepared from an oxide cathode at 250 °C exhibited a pH sensitivity of 57.37 mV/pH with a smoother surface, denser microstructure and higher hardness. The thin film RF sputtered from the metallic cathode exhibited better pH response than those RF sputtered from the oxide cathode due to the higher percentage of the RuO3 phase present in this film.
MAELASviewer: An Online Tool to Visualize Magnetostriction
Authors: Nieves Pablo , Arapan Sergiu , Kądzielawa Andrzej Piotr , Legut Dominik
Published: November 2020

The design of new materials for technological applications is increasingly being assisted by online computational tools that facilitate the study of their properties. In this work, based on modern web application frameworks, the online app MAELASviewer has been developed to visualize and analyze magnetostriction via a user-friendly interactive graphical interface. The features and technical details of this new tool are described in detail. Among other applications, it could potentially be used for the design of magnetostrictive materials for sensors and actuators.