bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Case Report: Coinheritance of Germline Mutations in APC and BRCA1 in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Huang Wei , Bian Jin , Qian Xiaoping , Shao Lin , Li Haiyan , Zhang Lu , Wang Lin
Published: March 2021

Deleterious mutations inAPCgene cause the autosomal dominant familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) which is typically characterized by the occurrence of hundreds to thousands of colorectal adenomas that eventually lead to colorectal cancers (CRCs).BRCA1/2are the two major susceptibility genes for breast and ovarian cancers. Here, we reported a coinheritance of mutations inAPCandBRCA1genes in a 20-year-old CRC patient with typical clinical features for FAP. Multiple relatives in the family of the patient were affected by colorectal and other cancers. Next-generation sequencing analysis using a panel consisting of 53 hereditary cancer related genes revealed a maternally inheritedAPC(exon15cn_del) mutation and a paternally inheritedBRAC1(p.lle1824AspfsX3) mutation. This is the first coexistence ofAPCandBRCA1mutations in a CRC patient with the mutation inheritance pattern comprehensively characterized in the family. The patient underwent a colonoscopy and a subtotal colectomy and was subsequently diagnosed with colonic adenocarcinomas accompanied with hundreds of tubulovillous adenomas. The case reveals the scenario where two disease-causing mutations of different hereditary tumor syndromes coexist, and illustrates the importance of evaluating detailed family history and performing a multiple-gene panel test in patients with hereditary cancer.
Tissue Expression of Carbonic Anhydrase IX Correlates to More Aggressive Phenotype of Basal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Russo Daniela , Varricchio Silvia , Ilardi Gennaro , Martino Francesco , Di Crescenzo Rosa Maria , Pignatiello Sara , Scalvenzi Massimiliano , Costa Claudia , Mascolo Massimo , Merolla Francesco , Staibano Stefania
Published: March 2021

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common cancer in the white-skinned population accounting for about 15% of all neoplasms. Its incidence is increasing worldwide, at a rate of about 10% per year. BCC, although infrequently metastasizing, very often causes extensive tissue losses, due to the high propensity toward stromal infiltration, particularly in its dedifferentiated forms, with disfiguring and debilitating results. To date, there still is limited availability of therapeutic treatments alternative to surgery. We evaluated the immunohistochemical expression of the carbonic anhydrase IX (CAIX), one of the main markers of tissue hypoxia, in a set of 85 archived FFPE BCC tissues, including the main subtypes, with different clinical outcomes, to demonstrate a possible relationship between hypoxic phenotype and biological aggressiveness of these neoplasms. Our results showed that the expression level of the CAIX protein contributes to the stratification of BCC in the different risk classes for recurrence. We hypothesize for CAIX a potential therapeutic role as a target therapy in the treatment of more aggressive BCCs, thus providing an alternative to surgical and pharmacological therapy with Hedgehog inhibitors, a promising example of target therapy in BCCs.
Decrease in Admissions and Change in the Diagnostic Landscape in a Newborn Care Unit in Northern Ghana During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Abdul-Mumin Alhassan , Cotache-Condor Cesia , Bimpong Kingsley Appiah , Grimm Andie , Kpiniong Mary Joan , Yakubu Rafiuk Cosmos , Kwarteng Peter Gyamfi , Fuseini Yaninga Halwani , Smith Emily R.
Published: March 2021

Background: The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has spread worldwide with an increasing number of patients, including pregnant women and neonates. This study aims to evaluate morbidity and mortality in the COVID-19 era compared to the preceding year in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Tamale Teaching Hospital, Ghana.

Methods: This is a cross-sectional study carried out on neonates admitted to NICU between March 1st to August 31st, 2019 (pre-COVID-19 era) and March 1st to August 31st, 2020 (COVID-19 era). Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify predictors of mortality for both periods.

Results: From 2,901 neonates, 1,616 (56%) were admitted before, and 1,285 (44%) were admitted during the pandemic. Admissions decreased during the COVID-19 era, reaching their lowest point between June and August 2020. Compared to the previous year, during the COVID-19 era, admissions of patients born at TTH, delivered at home, and with infections decreased from 50 to 39%, 7 to 4%, and 22 to 13%, respectively. Referred status (OR = 3.3) and vaginal delivery (OR = 1.6) were associated with an increased likelihood of mortality. For low- birth weight neonates, admissions of patients born at TTH, with vaginal and home delivery decreased from 62 to 48%, 8 to 2%, and 59 to 52%, respectively. Neonatal infections and congenital anomalies decreased from 8 to 4%, 5 to 3%, respectively. The likelihood of mortality among referred patients increased by 50%.

Conclusion: We observed a marked decrease in admissions and change in the diagnosis landscape and related mortality during the pandemic. Underlying challenges, including fear, financing, and health system capacity, might intensify delays and lack of access to newborn care in northern Ghana, leading to higher rates of lifelong disabilities and mortality. Immediate damage control measures, including an improved home-based continuum of care and equipping families to participate in the newborn care with complemented m-health approaches, are needed with urgency.
Risk Factors Associated With Abnormal Urinalysis in Children
Authors: Zhong Xuhui , Ding Jie , Wang Zheng , Gao Yan , Wu Yubin , Shen Ying , Song Hongmei , Zhao Zhengyan , Chen Xinxin , Zhang Puhong , Xu Guobin , Yao Chen , Zhang Hui , Zhong Fu , Tang Ying , Wang Hui , Wang Wei , Li Wenhao , Zhang Wanxia , Zhu Sainan , Shang Meixia
Published: March 2021

Background:Targeted urinalysis has been suggested to improve screening efficiency in adults. However, there is no well-defined target population in children yet, with limited information on the risk factors for urinalysis abnormalities.

Methods:Children from infants to 17 years old were randomly selected. Dipstick urinalysis was initially performed. Among those who were abnormal, a repeat dipstick or dipstick with microscopic urinalysis was performed for confirmation.

Results:In total, 70,822 children were included, with 37,866 boys and 32,956 girls. Prevalence of abnormal urinalysis was 4.3%. Age was significantly associated with abnormal urinalysis, with the highest prevalence among 12–14-year-olds. Girls were 2.0 times more likely to exhibit abnormalities. Compared with children whose guardians had a college degree or higher, those whose guardians had a high school degree or lower had a higher likelihood of abnormalities. Geographic location was also associated with abnormal results.

Conclusion:Girls, children aged 12–14 years old, and children whose guardians had a low educational level and children in certain geographic locations were significantly associated with abnormal urinalysis. Identification of children at high risk would contribute to targeted urinalysis screening.
Avenanthramide C Suppresses Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Expression and Migration Through the MAPK/NF- κB Signaling Pathway in TNF-α-Activated HASMC Cells
Authors: Park Junyoung , Choi Hyunju , Abekura Fukushi , Lim Hak‐Seong , Im Jong‐Hwan , Yang Woong‐Suk , Hwang Cher‐Won , Chang Young‐Chae , Lee Young-Choon , Park Nam Gyu , Kim Cheorl-Ho
Published: March 2021

In oat ingredients, flavonoids and phenolic acids are known to be the most important phenolic compounds. In phenolic compounds, wide-ranging biological responses, including antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, and anti-cancer properties, were reported. Avenanthramide C (Avn C), a component of the phenolic compound of oats, has been reported to be highly antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, but its role in an anti-atherosclerosis response is unknown. The aim of this research was to assess the effect of Avn C on expression of MMP-9 on TNF-α-activated human arterial smooth-muscle cells (HASMC) and signaling involved in its anti-atherosclerosis activity. HASMC cells are known to produce inflammatory cytokines involving IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α during arteriosclerosis activity. Avn C specifically reduced IL-6 secretion in HASMC cells. Furthermore, we investigated whether Avn C could inhibit NF-κB nuclear protein translocation. Avn C suppressed nuclear protein translocation of NF-κB in TNF-α-stimulated HASMCs. The MMP-9 enzyme activity and expression are controlled through the MAPKs signaling path during the Avn C treatment. We confirmed that the levels of wound healing (p-value = 0.013, *p < 0.05) and migration (p-value = 0.007, **p < 0.01) are inhibited by 100 ng/ml TNF-α and 100 μM Avn C co-treated. Accordingly, Avn C inhibited the expression of MMP-9 and cell migration through the MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway in TNF-α-activated HASMC. Therefore, Avn C can be identified and serve as disease prevention material and remedy for atherosclerosis.
Reliability of Sonoelastography Measurement of Tongue Muscles and Its Application on Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Chu Cheng-An , Chen Yunn-Jy , Chang Ke-Vin , Wu Wei-Ting , Özçakar Levent
Published: March 2021

Few studies have explored the feasibility of shear-wave ultrasound elastography (SWUE) for evaluating the upper airways of patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This study aimed to establish a reliable SWUE protocol for evaluating tongue muscle elasticity and its feasibility and utility in differentiating patients with OSA. Inter-rater and intra-rater reliability of SWUE measurements were tested using the intraclass correlation coefficients. Submental ultrasound was used to measure tongue thickness and stiffness. Association between the ultrasound measurements and presence of OSA was analyzed using multivariate logistic regression. One-way analysis of variance was used to examine if the values of the ultrasound parameters varied among patients with different severities of OSA. Overall, 37 healthy subjects and 32 patients with OSA were recruited. The intraclass correlation coefficients of intra‐ and inter-rater reliability for SWUE for tongue stiffness ranged from 0.84 to 0.90. After adjusting for age, sex, neck circumference, and body mass index, the risk for OSA was positively associated with tongue thickness [odds ratio 1.16 (95% confidence interval 1.01–1.32)] and negatively associated with coronal imaging of tongue muscle stiffness [odds ratio 0.72 (95% confidence interval 0.54–0.95)]. There were no significant differences in tongue stiffness among OSA patients with varying disease severity. SWUE provided a reliable evaluation of tongue muscle stiffness, which appeared to be softer in patients with OSA. Future longitudinal studies are necessary to investigate the relationship between tongue softening and OSA, as well as response to treatment.
Political Representation in Liquid Democracy
Authors: Valsangiacomo Chiara
Published: March 2021

This article provides an in-depth survey of political representation in Liquid Democracy (LD). More precisely, it refutes two potential criticisms: 1) LD impoverishes the concept of political representation relative to existing representative democracies; 2) LD undermines the centrality of political parties. In answer to (1), the article shows that LD is compatible with a selection model of representation, in which proxies are characterized as gyroscopic representatives, driven by intrinsic motivation and indifferent to sanctions. This claim has far-reaching normative implications for the mandate-independence tradeoff, anti-elitism, and deliberation under LD. With regard to (2), the article examines the function of parties, arguing that, although it puts parties and interest groups on a level playing field, LD does not threaten partisanship, but rather expands the range of potential carriers of partisanship. In addressing these objections, this article demonstrates the democratic credentials of LD, showing that LD is compatible with a high-quality, democratic understanding of representation, which is surrounded by a cluster of thick concepts like commitment, intrinsic motivation, alignment of objectives, sympathy, trust, and dialogue. This turns LD into a powerful instrument for the refurbishment of representation both as a unique mode of political participation and as a practice of self-government.
The Home Learning Environment in the Digital Age—Associations Between Self-Reported “Analog” and “Digital” Home Learning Environment and Children’s Socio-Emotional and Academic Outcomes
Authors: Lehrl Simone , Linberg Anja , Niklas Frank , Kuger Susanne
Published: March 2021

We analyzed the association between the analog and the digital home learning environment (HLE) in toddlers’ and preschoolers’ homes, and whether both aspects are associated with children’s social and academic competencies. Here, we used data of the national representative sample of Growing up in Germany II, which includes 4,914 children aged 0–5 years. The HLE was assessed via parental survey that included items on the analog HLE (e.g., playing word games, reading, and counting) and items on the digital HLE (e.g., using apps or playing with apps). Children’s socio-emotional, practical life skills, and academic competencies were assessed via standardized parental ratings. Our results indicate that there are two dimensions of the HLE, an analog and a digital, that are slightly positively associated, especially in the toddler age group. For toddlers, only analog HLE activities were associated with better socio-emotional outcomes and practical life skills. However, interaction effects indicate that toddlers with less frequent analog HLE activities showed better socio-emotional skills in households with more frequent digital activities. For preschoolers, digital HLE activities were associated with weaker socio-emotional skills but higher academic skills, although the analog HLE shows higher effect sizes for the academic outcomes. Our study points out that analog and digital HLE activities seem to be partly associated, but not interchangeable. Further, they seem to be important variables that can explain individual differences in young children’s socio-emotional, practical life, and academic competencies. However, digital media usage at home may also have negative effects on children’s social–emotional competencies. This association needs to be investigated further.
Path Learning in Individuals With Down Syndrome: The Challenge of Learning Condition and Cognitive Abilities
Authors: Meneghetti Chiara , Toffalini Enrico , Lanfranchi Silvia , Roch Maja , Carretti Barbara
Published: March 2021

Analyzing navigational abilities and related aspects in individuals with Down syndrome (DS) is of considerable interest because of its relevance to everyday life. This study investigates path learning, the conditions favoring it, and the cognitive abilities involved. A group of 30 adults with DS and 32 typically-developing (TD) children matched on receptive vocabulary were shown a 4 × 4 Floor Matrix and asked to repeat increasingly long sequences of steps by walking on the grid. The sequences were presented under two learning conditions, one called Oral instructions (participants received verbal instructions such as “turn right” or “turn left”), the other Observation (participants watched the experimenter's moves). Participants were also assessed on verbal and visuospatial cognitive measures. The results showed a similarly better performance in both groups when the Floor Matrix task was administered in the Observation as opposed to the Oral instructions condition. As for the relation with cognitive abilities, in the Floor Matrix task in the Oral instructions condition, individuals with DS showed an effect of both verbal and visuospatial abilities, which was only positive for verbal ability. The effect of verbal and visuospatial abilities was negligible in the TD group. In the Observation condition, performance was predicted by sequential working memory in both groups. Overall, these results shed light on path learning in individuals with DS, showing that they benefited from the Observation condition, and that the involvement of their cognitive abilities depended on the learning condition.
Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy in Depressed Subjects Treated With Electroconvulsive Therapy—A Systematic Review of Literature
Authors: Erchinger Vera Jane , Ersland Lars , Aukland Stein Magnus , Abbott Christopher C. , Oltedal Leif
Published: March 2021

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is considered to be the most effective acute treatment for otherwise treatment resistant major depressive episodes, and has been used for over 80 years. Still, the underlying mechanism of action is largely unknow. Several studies suggest that ECT affects the cerebral neurotransmitters, such as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) allows investigators to study neurotransmitters in vivo, and has been used to study neurochemical changes in the brain of patients treated with ECT. Several investigations have been performed on ECT-patients; however, no systematic review has yet summarized these findings. A systematic literature search based on the Prisma guidelines was performed. PubMed (Medline) was used in order to find investigations studying patients that had been treated with ECT and had undergone an MRS examination. A search in the databases Embase, PsycInfo, and Web of Science was also performed, leading to no additional records. A total of 30 records were identified and screened which resulted in 16 original investigations for review. The total number of patients that was included in these studies, ignoring potential overlap of samples in some investigations, was 325. The metabolites reported were N-acetyl aspartate, Choline, Myoinositol, Glutamate and Glutamine, GABA and Creatine. The strongest evidence for neurochemical change related to ECT, was found for N-acetyl aspartate (reduction), which is a marker of neuronal integrity. Increased choline and glutamate following treatment was also commonly reported.
A Retrospective Comparative Study in Patients With Cocaine Use Disorder Comorbid With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Undergoing an rTMS Protocol Treatment
Authors: Cardullo Stefano , Gómez Pérez Luis J. , Cuppone Diego , Sarlo Michela , Cellini Nicola , Terraneo Alberto , Gallimberti Luigi , Madeo Graziella
Published: March 2021

Background: Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is associated with high comorbidity with other psychiatric diseases, including cocaine use disorder (CocUD). Given the common fronto-striatal dysfunction, ADHD patients often use cocaine as self-medication for ameliorating symptoms by increasing striatal dopamine release. Yet, comorbidity with ADHD is related to poor treatment outcomes. CocUD has been treated with transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), but no studies investigated the outcomes in patients comorbid with ADHD.

Methods: Twenty-two ADHD/CocUD and 208 CocUD-only participants received a high-frequency (15 Hz) rTMS treatment stimulating the left-DLPFC. We investigated whether both groups of patients shared similar demographic and clinical characteristics at baseline. Then, we monitored the effect of treatment testing for potential differences between groups.

Results: At baseline demographic, toxicology and clinical features were not different between the two groups except for global severity index (GSI from SCL-90): patients of ADHD/CocUD group reported higher general symptomatology compared to the CocUD-only group. Concerning the effect of treatment, both groups significantly improved over time regarding cocaine use, craving, and other negative affect symptoms. No differences were observed between groups.

Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is the first study comparing the demographic characterization and rTMS clinical improvements of patients with a dual diagnosis of ADHD and CocUD against CocUD-only patients. Cocaine use and common self-reported withdrawal/abstinence symptoms appear to benefit from rTMS treatment with no differences between groups. Future studies are needed to further investigate these preliminary results.
Gender Differences and Influencing Factors in Specialty Choices: Findings From One Medical School in China
Authors: Yin Kanhua , Yang Liu , Zhang Rui , Zheng Difan , Wilkes Michael S. , Lai Yanni
Published: March 2021

Background: Gender plays a significant role in the selection of medical specialty. Few studies have been conducted to explore the impact of gender differences on specialty choosing among Chinese medical students.

Methods: The specialty choices of 648 students from six consecutive classes in an 8-year MD program were collected and compared between male and female students. A total of 110 students from one graduating class were surveyed by a questionnaire covering 22 career influencing factors. Each factor has a scale of zero to three (zero = no influence, one = mild influence, two = moderate influence, and three = strong influence).

Results: Statistically significant gender differences were observed in 10 out of 16 specialties. Most male students limited their specialty choices to surgery (64%), internal medicine (12%), and orthopedics (12%), compared with a relatively diversified pattern in female students. For male students, the top three influencing factors were personal interest, future job prospects for the chosen specialty, and job opportunity in academic medicine. The strongest influencing factors of females were personal interest, specialty-specific knowledge and skills, and the sense of achievement. The expected salary was ranked among the top 10 influencing factors in male but not in females, while the work-life balance was ranked among the top 10 factors in females but not in males.

Conclusion: There is a significant gender difference regarding specialty choices among Chinese medical students. Career coaching is needed to help students in their specialty choosing process.
Creativity, Resilience and Resistance: Black Birthworkers’ Responses to the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Oparah Julia Chinyere , James Jennifer E. , Barnett Destany , Jones Linda Marie , Melbourne Daphina , Peprah Sayida , Walker Jessica A.
Published: March 2021

This article documents the experiences of Black birthworkers supporting pregnant and birthing people and new mamas during the first six months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Building on the methodology and outcomes of Battling Over Birth–a Research Justice project by and for Black women about their experiences of pregnancy and childbirth–the authors utilized a “community-based sheltered-in-place research methodology” to collect the narratives of Black birthworkers, including doulas, certified nurse-midwives (CNMs), homebirth midwives, lactation consultants, community health workers and ob/gyns. The article examines the impact of restrictions put in place by hospitals and clinics, including inadequate or inconsistent care, mandatory testing, separation from newborns, and restrictions on attendance by birth support people, including doulas. Birthworkers shared the innovative approaches that they have devised to continue to offer care and the ways that they have expanded the care they offer to make sure the needs of Black birthing people and new parents are being met during this uncertain time. The article also explores the threats to health, safety, and financial security faced by Black birthworkers as a result of the pandemic, and the overt and subtle forms of racism they had to navigate. Finally, it documents the sources of strength that Black birthworkers have found to sustain them at the frontlines of a maternal health care system in crisis.
Loss of ARID1A Expression as a Favorable Prognostic Factor in Early-Stage Grade 3 Endometrioid Endometrial Carcinoma Patients
Authors: Kato Mayumi Kobayashi , Yoshida Hiroshi , Tanase Yasuhito , Uno Masaya , Ishikawa Mitsuya , Kato Tomoyasu
Published: March 2021

Introduction: High-risk patients with grade 3 endometrioid endometrial carcinoma (G3EEC) who require adjuvant therapy have not been clearly identified. Therefore, the current study aimed to investigate the prognostic impact of ARID1A, p53, and mismatch repair (MMR) protein expressions, previously reported as prognosticators in some gynecological cancers, in patients with early-stage G3EEC.

Methods: A total of 67 patients with pathologically confirmed early-stage G3EEC diagnosed between 1997 and 2020 were identified; none received adjuvant chemotherapy. The recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method and compared with a log-rank test. The protein expressions of ARID1A, p53, and MMR were examined via immunohistochemistry, and the associations between these biomarkers and clinical outcomes were evaluated.

Results: Recurrence was observed in 9 (13%) of the 67 patients with early stage G3EEC. The respective 5-years RFS and OS rates were 87.7% and 93.7%, and 68.6% and 85.7%, respectively for stages I and II. Multivariate analysis showed significantly longer RFS among patients with ARID1A loss (hazard ratio = 8.7; 95% CI, 1.09–69.6, p = 0.04). No significant differences were observed in RFS and OS of patients according to p53 and MMR expression status.

Conclusion: ARID1A expression status was a prognosticator for patients with early stage G3EEC without adjuvant therapy, whereas p53 and MMR expression status showed no impact on survival outcomes. ARID1A may become a useful biomarker for stratification of adjuvant treatment for early stage G3EEC patients.
Ontology Based Governance for Employee Services
Authors: Tzagkarakis Eleftherios , Kondylakis Haridimos , Vardakis George , Papadakis Nikolaos
Published: March 2021

Advances in computers and communications have significantly changed almost every aspect of our daily activity. In this maze of change, governments around the world cannot remain indifferent. Public administration is evolving and taking on a new form through e-government. A large number of organizations have set up websites, establishing an online interface with the citizens and businesses with which it interacts. However, most organizations, especially the decentralized agencies of the ministries and local authorities, do not offer their information electronically despite the fact that they provide many information services that are not integrated with other e-government services. Besides, these services are mainly focused on serving citizens and businesses and less on providing services to employees. In this paper, we describe the process of developing an ontology to support the administrative procedures of decentralized government organizations. Finally, we describe the development of an e-government portal that provides employees services that are processed online, using the above ontology for modeling and data management.
Organic Beekeeping Practices in Romania: Status and Perspectives towards a Sustainable Development
Authors: Pocol Cristina Bianca , Šedík Peter , Brumă Ioan Sebastian , Amuza Antonio , Chirsanova Aurica
Published: March 2021

Romanian beekeeping faces a lot of challenges nowadays due to the problems related to climate change, the use of pesticides in agriculture, but also to the pandemic crisis. In this context, organic beekeeping represents an important alternative to traditional apicultural practices. The purpose of the study was to present the current situation of organic beekeeping in Romania, but also to identify some aspects related to sustainability. The research methodology was based on secondary and primary data. An online survey was conducted in 2020 on a sample of 433 Romanian beekeepers. The main findings showed that the majority of participants were aware of organic principles and were familiar with the concept of sustainability in beekeeping. However, only a small percentage of beekeepers were certified in the organic system. The evaluation of the concept of sustainability showed that the most important factor for the surveyed beekeepers was the environmental aspect, followed by the economic and social components. The pandemic crisis has negatively impacted the beekeepers’ activities due to travel restrictions and the limited access to the apiaries. If, in economic terms, they were affected by the sales drop in the first months of the crisis, there were also some positive effects such as the increase in demand for health-related products.
Melatonin Regulates Chloroplast Protein Quality Control via a Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Signaling Pathway
Authors: Lee Hyoung Yool , Back Kyoungwhan
Published: March 2021

Serotonin N-acetyltransferase 1 (SNAT1), the penultimate enzyme for melatonin biosynthesis has shown N-acetyltransferase activity toward multiple substrates, including histones, serotonin, and plastid proteins. Under two different light conditions such as 50 or 100 μmol m−2 s−1, a SNAT1-knockout (snat1) mutant of Arabidopsis thaliana ecotype Columbia (Col-0) exhibited small size phenotypes relative over wild-type (WT) Arabidopsis Col-0. Of note, the small phenotype is stronger when growing at the 50 μmol m−2 s−1, exhibiting a dwarfism phenotype and delayed flowering. The snat1 Arabidopsis Col-0 accumulated less starch than the WT Col-0. Moreover, snat1 exhibited lower Lhcb1, Lhcb4, and RBCL protein levels, compared with the WT Col-0, but no changes in the corresponding transcripts, suggesting the involvement of melatonin in chloroplast protein quality control (CPQC). Accordingly, caseinolytic protease (Clp) and chloroplast heat shock proteins (CpHSPs), two key proteins involved in CPQC, as well as ROS defense were suppressed in snat1. In contrast, exogenous melatonin treatment induced expression of Clp, CpHSP, APX1, and GST, but not other growth-related genes such as DWF4, KS, and IAA1. Finally, the induction of ClpR1, APX1, and GST1 in response to melatonin was inhibited in the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) knockdown Arabidopsis (mpk3/6), suggesting that melatonin-mediated CPQC was mediated, in part, by the MAPK signaling cascade. These results suggest that melatonin is involved in CPQC, which plays a pivotal role in starch synthesis in plants.
Synthesis of Biobased Phloretin Analogues: An Access to Antioxidant and Anti-Tyrosinase Compounds for Cosmetic Applications
Authors: Minsat Laurène , Peyrot Cédric , Brunissen Fanny , Renault Jean-Hugues , Allais Florent
Published: March 2021

The current cosmetic and nutraceutical markets are characterized by a strong consumer demand for a return to natural products that are less harmful to both the consumers and the environment than current petrosourced products. Phloretin, a natural dihydrochalcone (DHC) found in apple, has been widely studied for many years and identified as a strong antioxidant and anti-tyrosinase ingredient for cosmetic formulations. Its low concentration in apples does not allow it to be obtained by direct extraction from biomass in large quantities to meet market volumes and prices. Moreover, its remarkable structure prevents its synthesis through a green process. To overcome these issues, the synthesis of phloretin analogs appears as an alternative to access valuable compounds that are potentially more active than phloretin itself. Under such considerations, 12 chalcones (CHs) and 12 dihydrochalcones (DHCs) were synthesized through a green Claisen–Schmidt condensation using bio-based reagents. In order to evaluate the potential of these molecules, radical scavenging DPPH and anti-tyrosinase tests have been conducted. Moreover, the UV filtering properties and the stability of these analogs towards UV-radiations have been evaluated. Some molecules showed competitive antioxidant and anti-tyrosinase activities regarding phloretin. Two compounds in particular showed EC50 lower than phloretin, one chalcone and one dihydrochalcone.
Bio-Inspired Morphing Tail for Flapping-Wings Aerial Robots Using Macro Fiber Composites
Authors: Perez-Sanchez Vicente , Gomez-Tamm Alejandro E. , Savastano Emanuela , Arrue Begoña C. , Ollero Anibal
Published: March 2021

The aim of this work is to present the development of a bio-inspired approach for a robotic tail using Macro Fiber Composites (MFC) as actuators. The use of this technology will allow achieving closer to the nature approach of the tail, aiming to mimic a bird tail behavior. The tail will change its shape, performing morphing, providing a new type of actuation methodology in flapping control systems. The work is intended as a first step for demonstrating the potential of these technologies for being applied in other parts of the aerials robotics systems. When compared with traditional actuation approaches, one key advantage that is given by the use of MFC is their ability to adapt to different flight conditions via geometric tailoring, imitating what birds do in nature. Theoretical explanations, design, and experimental validation of the developed concept using different methodologies will be presented in this paper.
Computational Study on Interfacial Interactions between Polymethyl Methacrylate-Based Bone Cement and Hydroxyapatite in Nanoscale
Authors: Kim Hongdeok , Goh Byeonghwa , Lee Sol , Lee Kyujo , Choi Joonmyung
Published: March 2021

Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)-based bone cement (BC) is a key material in joint replacement surgery that transfers external forces from the implant to the bone while allowing their robust binding. To quantitatively evaluate the effect of polymerization on the thermomechanical properties of the BC and on the interaction characteristics with the bone ceramic hydroxyapatite (HAp), molecular dynamics simulations were performed. The mechanical stiffness of the BC material under external loading increased gradually with the crosslinking reaction occurrence, indicating increasing load transfer between the constituent molecules. In addition, as the individual Methyl Methacrylate (MMA) segments were interconnected in the system, the freedom of the molecular network was largely suppressed, resulting in more thermally stable structures. Furthermore, the pull-out tests using HAp/BC bilayer models under different constraints (BC at 40% and 85%) revealed the cohesive characteristics of the BC with the bone scaffold in molecular detail. The stiffness and the fracture energy increased by 32% and 98%, respectively, with the crosslink density increasing.
A Weighted Linearization Method for Highly RF-PA Nonlinear Behavior Based on the Compression Region Identification
Authors: Galaviz-Aguilar Jose Alejandro , Vargas-Rosales Cesar , Cárdenas-Valdez José Ricardo , Martínez-Reyes Yasmany , Inzunza-González Everardo , Sandoval-Ibarra Yuma , Núñez-Pérez José Cruz
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we present an adaptive modeling and linearization algorithm using the weighted memory polynomial model (W-MPM) implemented in a chain involving the indirect learning approach (ILA) as a linearization technique. The main aim of this paper is to offer an alternative to correcting the undesirable effect of spectral regrowth based on modeling and linearization stages, where the 1-dB compression point (P1dB) of a nonlinear device caused by memory effects within a short time is considered. The obtained accuracy is tested for a highly nonlinear behavior power amplifier (PA) properly measured using a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) system. The adaptive modeling stage shows, for the two PAs under test, performances with accuracies of −32.72 dB normalized mean square error (NMSE) using the memory polynomial model (MPM) compared with −38.03 dB NMSE using the W-MPM for the (i) 10 W gallium nitride (GaN) high-electron-mobility transistor (HEMT) radio frequency power amplifier (RF-PA) and of −44.34 dB NMSE based on the MPM and −44.90 dB NMSE using the W-MPM for (ii) a ZHL-42W+ at 2000 MHz. The modeling stage and algorithm are suitably implemented in an FPGA testbed. Furthermore, the methodology for measuring the RF-PA under test is discussed. The whole algorithm is able to adapt both stages due to the flexibility of the W-MPM model. The results prove that the W-MPM requires less coefficients compared with a static model. The error vector magnitude (EVM) is estimated for both the static and adaptive schemes, obtaining a considerable reduction in the transmitter chain. The development of an adaptive stage such as the W-MPM is ideal for digital predistortion (DPD) systems where the devices under test vary their electrical characteristics due to use or aging degradation.
Synchronized Motion Profiles for Inverse-Dynamics-Based Online Control of Three Inextensible Segments of Trunk-Type Robot Actuators
Authors: Matukaitis Mindaugas , Urniezius Renaldas , Masaitis Deividas , Zlatkus Lukas , Kemesis Benas , Dervinis Gintaras
Published: March 2021

This study proposes a novel method for the positioning and spatial orientation control of three inextensible segments of trunk-type robots. The suggested algorithm imposes a soft constraint assumption for the end-effector’s endpoint and a mandatory constraint on its direction. Simultaneously, the algorithm by-design enforces nonholonomic features on the robot segments in the form of arcs. An approximate robot spine curve is the key to the final robot state configuration based on the given conditions. The numeric simulation showed acceptable (less than 1 s) performance for single-core processing tasks. The parametric method finds the best proximate robot state solution and represents the gray box model in addition to existing learning or black-box inverse dynamics approaches. This study also shows that a multiple inverse kinematics answer constructs a single inverse dynamics solution that defines the robot actuators’ motion profiles, synchronized in time. Finally, this text presents rotational expressions and their outlines for controlling the manipulator’s tendons.
Fast Numerical Wind Turbine Candidate Site Evaluation
Authors: Perne Matija , Mlakar Primož , Grašič Boštjan , Božnar Marija Zlata , Kocijan Juš
Published: March 2021

A long-term measured wind speed time series from the location is typically used when deciding on placing a small wind turbine at a particular location. These data take a long time to collect. The presented novel method of measuring for a shorter time, using the measurement data for training an experimental model, and predicting the wind in a longer time period enables one to avoid most of the wait for the data collection. As the model inputs, the available long-term signals that consist of measurements from the meteorological stations in the vicinity and numerical weather predictions are used. Various possible experimental modelling methods that are based on linear or nonlinear regression models are tested in the field sites. The study area is continental with complex terrain, hilly topography, diverse land use, and no prevailing wind. It is shown that the method gives good results, showing linear regression is most advantageous, and that it is easy enough to use to be practically applicable in small wind projects of limited budget. The method is better suited to small turbines than to big ones because the turbines sited at low heights and in areas with low average wind speeds, where numerical weather prediction models are less accurate, tend to be small.
Early Loading of Titanium Dental Implants with Hydroxyl Ion Modified Surface: A 12-Month Prospective Clinical Trial
Authors: Krawiec Maciej , Hadzik Jakub , Dominiak Marzena , Grzebieluch Wojciech , Błaszczyszyn Artur , Kubasiewicz-Ross Paweł
Published: March 2021

(1) Background: implant surface topology and active hydrophilic ions could have some benefit on implant osteointegration and stability; (2) methods: 40 adult patients, suffering from a single missing tooth in the aesthetic zone, were enrolled in the study. Each patient had a single titanium implant (Thommen SPI®lement) inserted. The implant surface was obtained through conditioning using the Apliquiq system. Patients were divided into two equal groups depending on the implant’s diameter (3.5 and 4.0 mm). Each implant was loaded within four weeks. Stability levels, using the Ostell device, were checked immediately after implant placement and in four weeks; additionally, marginal bone loss (MBL) was calculated based on 12 months; (3) results: all implants survived the study. The average primary stability achieved for both groups was initially 71.59 ISQ (±4.04) and declined to 69.94 ISQ (±3.29) in four weeks. The average MBL was 0.2 mm (±0.88). There were no statistically important differences between groups. There was a positive correlation between the patient’s age and implant stability quotient (ISQ) values; (4) conclusions: hydrophilic surface implants can be used in a protocol for early functional occlusal loading. Higher values of primary stability positively influence the values of secondary stability, and the age of the patient affects the values of implant stability.
Using Mg/Ca Ratios from the Limpet Patella depressa Pennant, 1777 Measured by Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) to Reconstruct Paleoclimate
Authors: García-Escárzaga Asier , Martínez-Minchero Marina , Cobo Adolfo , Gutiérrez-Zugasti Igor , Arrizabalaga Alvaro , Roberts Patrick
Published: March 2021

Measurement of the elemental composition of shells is increasingly emerging as an avenue for obtaining high-resolution insights into paleoclimate and past seasonality. Several studies have shown significant correlations between Mg/Ca ratios measured on shell carbonate and the sea surface temperature (SST) within which this carbonate was precipitated. However, other investigations have reported large variability in this relationship between species. Therefore, further studies, including taxa previously not considered are still required in order to validate these new species as suitable climate proxies. Here, we measured Mg/Ca ratios for limpet Patella depressa Pennant, 1777 samples live-collected in northern Spain for the first time. The elemental ratio was measured using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), a technique that significantly decreases the time required for sample preparation and increases the number of shells that can be analyzed. In this study, calibration-free LIBS (CF-LIBS) methods were applied to estimate molar concentrations of chemical elements on biogenic calcium carbonate. The Mg/Ca ratio evolution along the shell growth axis was compared with stable oxygen isotope (δ18O) profiles obtained from these same limpets and the SST at the place where the mollusk grew to determine if the sequences obtained correctly reflected environmental conditions during the life-span of the mollusk. The results showed a significant correlation between Mg/Ca ratio series and both δ18O profiles and SST, highlighting the paleoenvironmental and archaeological potential of LIBS analyses on this mollusk species that is frequently found in archaeological contexts in the western Europe.
Impact of the COVID-19 Lockdown on Air Quality Trends in Guiyang, Southwestern China
Authors: Su Zhihua , Duan Zongqi , Deng Bing , Liu Yunlong , Chen Xing
Published: March 2021

The absence of motor vehicle traffic and suspended human activities during the COVID-19 lockdown period in China produced a unique experiment to assess the efficiency of air pollution mitigation. Herein, we synthetically analyzed monitoring data of atmospheric pollutants together with meteorological parameters to investigate the impact of human activity pattern changes on air quality in Guiyang, southwestern China. The results show that the Air Quality Index (AQI) during the lockdown period decreased by 7.4% and 23.48% compared to pre-lockdown levels and the identical lunar period during the past 3 years, respectively, which exhibited optimal air quality due to reduced emissions. The sharp decrease in NO2 concentration reduced the “titration” effect and elevated the O3 concentration by 31.94% during the lockdown period. Meteorological conditions significantly impacted air quality, and serious pollution events might also occur under emission reductions. Falling wind speeds and increasing relative humidity were the direct causes of the pollution event on February 1st. The “first rain” increases the hygroscopicity of atmospheric particulate matter and then elevate its concentration, while continuous rainfall significantly impacted the removal of atmospheric particulate matter. As impacted by the lockdown, the spatial distribution of the NO2 concentration sharply decreased on the whole, while the O3 concentration increased significantly. The implications of this study are as follows: Measures should be formulated to prevent O3 pollution when emission reduction measures are being adopted to improve air quality, and an emphasis should be placed on the impact of secondary aerosols formation by gas-particle conversion.
A New Family of Boolean Functions with Good Cryptographic Properties
Authors: Sosa-Gómez Guillermo , Paez-Osuna Octavio , Rojas Omar , Madarro-Capó Evaristo José
Published: March 2021

In 2005, Philippe Guillot presented a new construction of Boolean functions using linear codes as an extension of the Maiorana–McFarland’s (MM) construction of bent functions. In this paper, we study a new family of Boolean functions with cryptographically strong properties, such as non-linearity, propagation criterion, resiliency, and balance. The construction of cryptographically strong Boolean functions is a daunting task, and there is currently a wide range of algebraic techniques and heuristics for constructing such functions; however, these methods can be complex, computationally difficult to implement, and not always produce a sufficient variety of functions. We present in this paper a construction of Boolean functions using algebraic codes following Guillot’s work.
Modulation of Glycinergic Neurotransmission may Contribute to the Analgesic Effects of Propacetamol
Authors: Barsch Lukas , Werdehausen Robert , Leffler Andreas , Eulenburg Volker
Published: March 2021

Treating neuropathic pain remains challenging, and therefore new pharmacological strategies are urgently required. Here, the enhancement of glycinergic neurotransmission by either facilitating glycine receptors (GlyR) or inhibiting glycine transporter (GlyT) function to increase extracellular glycine concentration appears promising. Propacetamol is a N,N-diethylester of acetaminophen, a non-opioid analgesic used to treat mild pain conditions. In vivo, it is hydrolysed into N,N-diethylglycine (DEG) and acetaminophen. DEG has structural similarities to known alternative GlyT1 substrates. In this study, we analyzed possible effects of propacetamol, or its metabolite N,N-diethylglycine (DEG), on GlyRs or GlyTs function by using a two-electrode voltage clamp approach in Xenopus laevis oocytes. Our data demonstrate that, although propacetamol or acetaminophen had no effect on the function of the analysed glycine-responsive proteins, the propacetamol metabolite DEG acted as a low-affine substrate for both GlyT1 (EC50 > 7.6 mM) and GlyT2 (EC50 > 5.2 mM). It also acted as a mild positive allosteric modulator of GlyRα1 function at intermediate concentrations. Taken together, our data show that DEG influences both glycine transporter and receptor function, and therefore could facilitate glycinergic neurotransmission in a multimodal manner.