bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Exon-Specific Small Nuclear U1 RNA (ExSpeU1) Improves Hepatic OTC Expression in a Splicing-Defective spf/ash Mouse Model of Ornithine Transcarbamylase Deficiency
Authors: Balestra Dario , Ferrarese Mattia , Lombardi Silvia , Ziliotto Nicole , Branchini Alessio , Petersen Naomi , Bosma Piter , Pinotti Mirko , van de Graaf Stan F. J.
Published: November 2020

OTC splicing mutations are generally associated with the severest and early disease onset of ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency (OTCD), the most common urea cycle disorder. Noticeably, splicing defects can be rescued by spliceosomal U1snRNA variants, which showed their efficacy in cellular and animal models. Here, we challenged an U1snRNA variant in the OTCD mouse model (spf/ash) carrying the mutation c.386G > A (p.R129H), also reported in OTCD patients. It is known that the R129H change does not impair protein function but affects pre-mRNA splicing since it is located within the 5′ splice site. Through in vitro studies, we identified an Exon Specific U1snRNA (ExSpeU1O3) that targets an intronic region downstream of the defective exon 4 and rescues exon inclusion. The adeno-associated virus (AAV8)-mediated delivery of the ExSpeU1O3 to mouse hepatocytes, although in the presence of a modest transduction efficiency, led to increased levels of correct OTC transcripts (from 6.1 ± 1.4% to 17.2 ± 4.5%, p = 0.0033). Consistently, this resulted in increased liver expression of OTC protein, as demonstrated by Western blotting (~3 fold increase) and immunostaining. Altogether data provide the early proof-of-principle of the efficacy of ExSpeU1 in the spf/ash mouse model and encourage further studies to assess the potential of RNA therapeutics for OTCD caused by aberrant splicing.
High-Density Lipoproteins as Homeostatic Nanoparticles of Blood Plasma
Authors: Kudinov Vasily A. , Alekseeva Olga Yu. , Torkhovskaya Tatiana I. , Baskaev Konstantin K. , Artyushev Rafael I. , Saburina Irina N. , Markin Sergey S.
Published: November 2020

It is well known that blood lipoproteins (LPs) are multimolecular complexes of lipids and proteins that play a crucial role in lipid transport. High-density lipoproteins (HDL) are a class of blood plasma LPs that mediate reverse cholesterol transport (RCT)—cholesterol transport from the peripheral tissues to the liver. Due to this ability to promote cholesterol uptake from cell membranes, HDL possess antiatherogenic properties. This function was first observed at the end of the 1970s to the beginning of the 1980s, resulting in high interest in this class of LPs. It was shown that HDL are the prevalent class of LPs in several types of living organisms (from fishes to monkeys) with high resistance to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disorders. Lately, understanding of the mechanisms of the antiatherogenic properties of HDL has significantly expanded. Besides the contribution to RCT, HDL have been shown to modulate inflammatory processes, blood clotting, and vasomotor responses. These particles also possess antioxidant properties and contribute to immune reactions and intercellular signaling. Herein, we review data on the structure and mechanisms of the pleiotropic biological functions of HDL from the point of view of their evolutionary role and complex dynamic nature.
Fast, Precise, and Reliable Multiplex Detection of Potato Viruses by Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification
Authors: Edgü Güven , Freund Lena Julie , Hartje Stefanie , Tacke Eckhard , Hofferbert Hans-Reinhard , Twyman Richard M. , Noll Gundula A. , Muth Jost , Prüfer Dirk
Published: November 2020

Potato is an important staple food crop in both developed and developing countries. However, potato plants are susceptible to several economically important viruses that reduce yields by up to 50% and affect tuber quality. One of the major threats is corky ringspot, which is a tuber necrosis caused by tobacco rattle virus (TRV). The appearance of corky ringspot symptoms on tubers prior to commercialization results in ≈ 45% of the tubers being downgraded in quality and value, while ≈ 55% are declared unsaleable. To improve current disease management practices, we have developed simple diagnostic methods for the reliable detection of TRV without RNA purification, involving minimalized sample handling (mini), subsequent improved colorimetric loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), and final verification by lateral-flow dipstick (LFD) analysis. Having optimized the mini-LAMP-LFD approach for the sensitive and specific detection of TRV, we confirmed the reliability and robustness of this approach by the simultaneous detection of TRV and other harmful viruses in duplex LAMP reactions. Therefore, our new approach offers breeders, producers, and farmers an inexpensive and efficient new platform for disease management in potato breeding and cultivation.
The Role of Structure and Biophysical Properties in the Pleiotropic Effects of Statins
Authors: Murphy Christopher , Deplazes Evelyne , Cranfield Charles G. , Garcia Alvaro
Published: November 2020

Statins are a class of drugs used to lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and are amongst the most prescribed medications worldwide. Most statins work as a competitive inhibitor of 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (HMGR), but statin intolerance from pleiotropic effects have been proposed to arise from non-specific binding due to poor enzyme-ligand sensitivity. Yet, research into the physicochemical properties of statins, and their interactions with off-target sites, has not progressed much over the past few decades. Here, we present a concise perspective on the role of statins in lowering serum cholesterol levels, and how their reported interactions with phospholipid membranes offer a crucial insight into the mechanism of some of the more commonly observed pleiotropic effects of statin administration. Lipophilicity, which governs hepatoselectivity, is directly related to the molecular structure of statins, which dictates interaction with and transport through membranes. The structure of statins is therefore a clinically important consideration in the treatment of hypercholesterolaemia. This review integrates the recent biophysical studies of statins with the literature on the physiological effects and provides new insights into the mechanistic cause of statin pleiotropy, and prospective means of understanding the cholesterol-independent effects of statins.
Molecular Assembly and Structural Plasticity of Sensory Ribbon Synapses—A Presynaptic Perspective
Authors: Voorn Roos Anouk , Vogl Christian
Published: November 2020

In the mammalian cochlea, specialized ribbon-type synapses between sensory inner hair cells (IHCs) and postsynaptic spiral ganglion neurons ensure the temporal precision and indefatigability of synaptic sound encoding. These high-through-put synapses are presynaptically characterized by an electron-dense projection—the synaptic ribbon—which provides structural scaffolding and tethers a large pool of synaptic vesicles. While advances have been made in recent years in deciphering the molecular anatomy and function of these specialized active zones, the developmental assembly of this presynaptic interaction hub remains largely elusive. In this review, we discuss the dynamic nature of IHC (pre-) synaptogenesis and highlight molecular key players as well as the transport pathways underlying this process. Since developmental assembly appears to be a highly dynamic process, we further ask if this structural plasticity might be maintained into adulthood, how this may influence the functional properties of a given IHC synapse and how such plasticity could be regulated on the molecular level. To do so, we take a closer look at other ribbon-bearing systems, such as retinal photoreceptors and pinealocytes and aim to infer conserved mechanisms that may mediate these phenomena.
Impairment of Hypoxia-Induced CA IX by Beta-Blocker Propranolol—Impact on Progression and Metastatic Potential of Colorectal Cancer Cells
Authors: Barathova Monika , Grossmannova Katarina , Belvoncikova Petra , Kubasova Veronika , Simko Veronika , Skubla Rudolf , Csaderova Lucia , Pastorek Jaromir
Published: November 2020

The coexistence of cancer and other concomitant diseases is very frequent and has substantial implications for treatment decisions and outcomes. Beta-blockers, agents that block the beta-adrenergic receptors, have been related also to cancers. In the model of multicellular spheroids formed by colorectal cancer cells we described a crosstalk between beta-blockade by propranolol and tumour microenvironment. Non-selective beta-blocker propranolol decreased ability of tumour cells to adapt to hypoxia by reducing levels of HIF1α and carbonic anhydrase IX in 3D spheroids. We indicated a double action of propranolol in the tumour microenvironment by inhibiting the stability of HIF1α, thus mediating decrease of CA IX expression and, at the same time, by its possible effect on CA IX activity by decreasing the activity of protein kinase A (PKA). Moreover, the inhibition of β-adrenoreceptors by propranolol enhanced apoptosis, decreased number of mitochondria and lowered the amount of proteins involved in oxidative phosphorylation (V-ATP5A, IV-COX2, III-UQCRC2, II-SDHB, I-NDUFB8). Propranolol reduced metastatic potential, viability and proliferation of colorectal cancer cells cultivated in multicellular spheroids. To choose the right treatment strategy, it is extremely important to know how the treatment of concomitant diseases affects the superior microenvironment that is directly related to the efficiency of anti-cancer therapy
Evaluation of a Common Internal Standard Material to Reduce Inter-Laboratory Variation and Ensure the Quality, Safety and Efficacy of Expanded Newborn Screening Results When Using Flow Injection Analysis Tandem Mass Spectrometry with Internal Calibration
Authors: Carling Rachel S. , John Catharine , Goddard Philippa , Griffith Caroline , Cowen Simon , Hopley Christopher , Moat Stuart J.
Published: November 2020

In 2015, the newborn screening (NBS) programmes in England and Wales were expanded to include four additional disorders: Classical Homocystinuria, Isovaleric Acidemia, Glutaric Aciduria Type 1 and Maple Syrup Urine Disease, bringing the total number of analytes quantified to eight: phenylalanine, tyrosine, leucine, methionine, isovalerylcarnitine, glutarylcarnitine, octanoylcarnitine and decanoylcarnitine. Post-implementation, population data monitoring showed that inter-laboratory variation was greater than expected, with 90th centiles varying from 17% to 59%. We evaluated the effect of stable isotope internal standard (IS) used for quantitation on inter-laboratory variation. Four laboratories analysed routine screening samples (n > 101,820) using a common IS. Inter-laboratory variation was determined for the eight analytes and compared with results obtained using an in-house common IS (n > 102,194). A linear mixed-effects model was fitted to the data. Using a common IS mix reduced the inter-laboratory variation significantly (p < 0.05) for five analytes. For three analytes, the lack of significance was explained by use of individual laboratory “calibration factors”. For screening programmes where laboratories adhere to single analyte cut-off values (COVs), it is important that inter-laboratory variation is minimised, primarily to prevent false positive results. Whilst the use of a common IS helps achieve this, it is evident that instrument set-up also contributes to inter-laboratory variation.
Roof Isolation and Girder-to-Column Dissipative Connections in Seismic Design of Precast R/C Structures
Authors: Sorace Stefano , Terenzi Gloria
Published: November 2020

A new section of a study on innovative anti-seismic design strategies of precast reinforced concrete structures is presented herein. The solution conceived in this new step of the study consists in seismically isolating the building roof and incorporating girder-to-column dissipative connections. Two different types of dissipaters are considered for installation in the latter, i.e., fluid viscous spring-dampers and triangle-shaped added-damping-and-stiffness steel yielding devices. A benchmark building, designed according to a traditional ductility-based approach at a previous step of the study, is redesigned by assuming the two alternative dissipative connection technologies. Sizing criteria and details of both solutions are discussed, along with the results of the time–history analyses carried out to assess their performance up to the maximum considered normative earthquake level, and a comparative cost evaluation with the traditional design is offered.
Boron-Based Neutron Scintillator Screens for Neutron Imaging
Authors: Chuirazzi William , Craft Aaron , Schillinger Burkhard , Cool Steven , Tengattini Alessandro
Published: November 2020

In digital neutron imaging, the neutron scintillator screen is a limiting factor of spatial resolution and neutron capture efficiency and must be improved to enhance the capabilities of digital neutron imaging systems. Commonly used neutron scintillators are based on 6LiF and gadolinium oxysulfide neutron converters. This work explores boron-based neutron scintillators because 10B has a neutron absorption cross-section four times greater than 6Li, less energetic daughter products than Gd and 6Li, and lower γ-ray sensitivity than Gd. These factors all suggest that, although borated neutron scintillators may not produce as much light as 6Li-based screens, they may offer improved neutron statistics and spatial resolution. This work conducts a parametric study to determine the effects of various boron neutron converters, scintillator and converter particle sizes, converter-to-scintillator mix ratio, substrate materials, and sensor construction on image quality. The best performing boron-based scintillator screens demonstrated an improvement in neutron detection efficiency when compared with a common 6LiF/ZnS scintillator, with a 125% increase in thermal neutron detection efficiency and 67% increase in epithermal neutron detection efficiency. The spatial resolution of high-resolution borated scintillators was measured, and the neutron tomography of a test object was successfully performed using some of the boron-based screens that exhibited the highest spatial resolution. For some applications, boron-based scintillators can be utilized to increase the performance of a digital neutron imaging system by reducing acquisition times and improving neutron statistics.
Analysis of an Intelligence Dataset
Authors: Myszkowski Nils
Published: November 2020

It is perhaps popular belief—at least among non-psychometricians—that there is a unique or standard way to investigate the psychometric qualities of tests [...]
Evaluating the Sensor-Equipped Autonomous Surface Vehicle C-Worker 4 as a Tool for Identifying Coastal Ocean Acidification and Changes in Carbonate Chemistry
Authors: Cryer Sarah , Carvalho Filipa , Wood Terry , Strong James Asa , Brown Peter , Loucaides Socratis , Young Arlene , Sanders Richard , Evans Claire
Published: November 2020

The interface between land and sea is a key environment for biogeochemical carbon cycling, yet these dynamic environments are traditionally under sampled. Logistical limitations have historically precluded a comprehensive understanding of coastal zone processes, including ocean acidification. Using sensors on autonomous platforms is a promising approach to enhance data collection in these environments. Here, we evaluate the use of an autonomous surface vehicle (ASV), the C-Worker 4 (CW4), equipped with pH and pCO2 sensors and with the capacity to mount additional sensors for up to 10 other parameters, for the collection of high-resolution data in shallow coastal environments. We deployed the CW4 on two occasions in Belizean coastal waters for 2.5 and 4 days, demonstrating its capability for high-resolution spatial mapping of surface coastal biogeochemistry. This enabled the characterisation of small-scale variability and the identification of sources of low pH/high pCO2 waters as well as identifying potential controls on coastal pH. We demonstrated the capabilities of the CW4 in both pre-planned “autonomous” mission mode and remote “manually” operated mode. After documenting platform behaviour, we provide recommendations for further usage, such as the ideal mode of operation for better quality pH data, e.g., using constant speed. The CW4 has a high power supply capacity, which permits the deployment of multiple sensors sampling concurrently, a shallow draught, and is highly controllable and manoeuvrable. This makes it a highly suitable tool for observing and characterising the carbonate system alongside identifying potential drivers and controls in shallow coastal regions.
Polychaete Invasion May Lead to Biogeochemical Change in Host Marine Environment
Authors: Quintana Cintia O. , Kristensen Erik
Published: November 2020

Marine invasive species may modify their host environment by altering ecosystem biogeochemistry. We hypothesized that the invasive polychaete Marenzelleria viridis in Baltic Sea areas increases sulfate reduction (SR) in sediment micro-zones surrounding its burrow. Consequently, higher free porewater sulfide (H2S) is expected in sediments dominated by M. viridis than in corresponding sediments inhabited by the native polychaete Hediste diversicolor. In a thin-aquaria experiment, we found high SR rates (220 to 539 nmol cm−3 d−1) around the burrow walls of M. viridis as well as in surface and subsurface sediments with overall rates 2-fold higher than in defaunated control sediment. Similarly, an in situ survey revealed subsurface porewater H2S peaks moving upward towards the sediment surface in M. viridis inhabited areas. Accordingly, 50–85% higher porewater H2S was found almost year-round in these areas compared with H. diversicolor inhabited areas, suggesting that the invasion of M. viridis probably led to a substantial change in sediment biogeochemistry. In conclusion, M. viridis stimulates SR in sediment micro-zones and increases H2S in coastal sediments. Such change to more reducing conditions after the invasion may have critical environmental implications on, e.g., the distribution of H2S intolerant flora and fauna species.
Effect of Juvenile Hormone on Resistance against Entomopathogenic Fungus Metarhizium robertsii Differs between Sexes
Authors: Rantala Markus J. , Dubovskiy Ivan M. , Pölkki Mari , Krama Tatjana , Contreras-Garduño Jorge , Krams Indrikis A.
Published: November 2020

Juvenile hormone has been suggested to be a potential mediator in the trade-off between mating and insects’ immunity. Studies on various insect taxons have found that juvenile hormone interferes with humoral and cellular immunity. Although this was shown experimentally, studies using highly virulent parasites or pathogens are lacking so far. In this study, we tested if juvenile hormone administration affected resistance against entomopathogenic fungi, Metarhizium robertsii, in the mealworm beetle, Tenebrio molitor. In previous studies with T. molitor, juvenile hormone has been found to reduce a major humoral immune effector-system (phenoloxidase) in both sexes and decrease the encapsulation response in males. Here, we found that juvenile hormone administration prolonged survival time after infection with M. robertsii in males but reduced survival time in females. This study indicates that the effects of juvenile hormone on insect immunity might be more complicated than previously considered. We also suggest that there might be a trade-off between specific and non-specific immunity since, in males, juvenile hormone enhances specific immunity but corrupts non-specific immunity. Our study highlights the importance of using real parasites and pathogens in immuno-ecological studies.
Overview of Antifungal Drugs against Paracoccidioidomycosis: How Do We Start, Where Are We, and Where Are We Going?
Authors: do Carmo Silva Lívia , de Oliveira Amanda Alves , de Souza Dienny Rodrigues , Barbosa Katheryne Lohany Barros , Freitas e Silva Kleber Santiago , Carvalho Júnior Marcos Antonio Batista , Rocha Olívia Basso , Lima Raisa Melo , Santos Thaynara Gonzaga , Soares Célia Maria de Almeida , Pereira Maristela
Published: November 2020

Paracoccidioidomycosis is a neglected disease that causes economic and social impacts, mainly affecting people of certain social segments, such as rural workers. The limitations of antifungals, such as toxicity, drug interactions, restricted routes of administration, and the reduced bioavailability in target tissues, have become evident in clinical settings. These factors, added to the fact that Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) therapy is a long process, lasting from months to years, emphasize the need for the research and development of new molecules. Researchers have concentrated efforts on the identification of new compounds using numerous tools and targeting important proteins from Paracoccidioides, with the emphasis on enzymatic pathways absent in humans. This review aims to discuss the aspects related to the identification of compounds, methodologies, and perspectives when proposing new antifungal agents against PCM.
The Inverse-Power Logistic-Exponential Distribution: Properties, Estimation Methods, and Application to Insurance Data
Authors: AL Sobhi Mashail M.
Published: November 2020

The present paper proposes a new distribution called the inverse power logistic exponential distribution that extends the inverse Weibull, inverse logistic exponential, inverse Rayleigh, and inverse exponential distributions. The proposed model accommodates symmetrical, right-skewed, left-skewed, reversed-J-shaped, and J-shaped densities and increasing, unimodal, decreasing, reversed-J-shaped, and J-shaped hazard rates. We derive some mathematical properties of the proposed model. The model parameters were estimated using five estimation methods including the maximum likelihood, Anderson–Darling, least-squares, Cramér–von Mises, and weighted least-squares estimation methods. The performance of these estimation methods was assessed by a detailed simulation study. Furthermore, the flexibility of the introduced model was studied using an insurance real dataset, showing that the proposed model can be used to fit the insurance data as compared with twelve competing models.
Asymptotic Behavior of Solution to Nonlinear Eigenvalue Problem
Authors: Shibata Tetsutaro
Published: November 2020

We study the following nonlinear eigenvalue problem: −u″(t)=λf(u(t)),u(t)>0,t∈I:=(−1,1),u(±1)=0, where f(u)=log(1+u) and λ>0 is a parameter. Then λ is a continuous function of α>0, where α is the maximum norm α=∥uλ∥∞ of the solution uλ associated with λ. We establish the precise asymptotic formula for L1-norm of the solution ∥uα∥1 as α→∞ up to the second term and propose a numerical approach to obtain the asymptotic expansion formula for ∥uα∥1.
Toward the Identification of Novel Antimicrobial Agents: One-Pot Synthesis of Lipophilic Conjugates of N-Alkyl d- and l-Iminosugars
Authors: Esposito Anna , D’Alonzo Daniele , D’Errico Stefano , De Gregorio Eliana , Guaragna Annalisa
Published: November 2020

In the effort to improve the antimicrobial activity of iminosugars, we report the synthesis of lipophilic iminosugars 10a–b and 11a–b based on the one-pot conjugation of both enantiomeric forms of N-butyldeoxynojirimycin (NBDNJ) and N-nonyloxypentyldeoxynojirimycin (NPDNJ) with cholesterol and a succinic acid model linker. The conjugation reaction was tuned using the established PS-TPP/I2/ImH activating system, which provided the desired compounds in high yields (94–96%) by a one-pot procedure. The substantial increase in the lipophilicity of 10a–b and 11a–b is supposed to improve internalization within the bacterial cell, thereby potentially leading to enhanced antimicrobial properties. However, assays are currently hampered by solubility problems; therefore, alternative administration strategies will need to be devised.
Hospital-Acquired Serum Ionized Calcium Derangements and Their Associations with In-Hospital Mortality
Authors: Thongprayoon Charat , Hansrivijit Panupong , Petnak Tananchai , Mao Michael A. , Bathini Tarun , Vallabhajosyula Saraschandra , Lertjitbanjong Ploypin , Qureshi Fawad , Erickson Stephen B. , Cheungpasitporn Wisit
Published: November 2020

Background: The objective of this study was to report the incidence of in-hospital serum ionized calcium derangement and its impact on mortality. Methods: We included 12,599 non-dialytic adult patients hospitalized at a tertiary medical center from January 2009 to December 2013 with normal serum ionized calcium at admission and at least 2 in-hospital serum ionized calcium values. Using serum ionized calcium of 4.60–5.40 mg/dL as the normal reference range, in-hospital serum ionized calcium levels were categorized based on the presence of hypocalcemia and hypercalcemia in hospital. We performed logistic regression to assess the relationship of in-hospital serum ionized calcium derangement with mortality. Results: Fifty-four percent of patients developed new serum ionized calcium derangements: 42% had in-hospital hypocalcemia only, 4% had in-hospital hypercalcemia only, and 8% had both in-hospital hypocalcemia and hypercalcemia. In-hospital hypocalcemia only (OR 1.28; 95% CI 1.01–1.64), in-hospital hypercalcemia only (OR 1.64; 95% CI 1.02–2.68), and both in-hospital hypocalcemia and hypercalcemia (OR 1.73; 95% CI 1.14–2.62) were all significantly associated with increased in-hospital mortality, compared with persistently normal serum ionized calcium levels. Conclusions: In-hospital serum ionized calcium derangements affect more than half of hospitalized patients and are associated with increased in-hospital mortality.
Biofilm Formation Reducing Properties of Manuka Honey and Propolis in Proteus mirabilis Rods Isolated from Chronic Wounds
Authors: Kwiecińska-Piróg Joanna , Przekwas Jana , Majkut Michał , Skowron Krzysztof , Gospodarek-Komkowska Eugenia
Published: November 2020

Chronic wound infections are difficult to manage because of the biofilm formation in the wound environment. New measures for eliminating infections are necessary to increase the chance of wound healing. Apitherapy may be the new solution. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of wound infection factors and to examine the impact of Manuka honey and ethanol extract of propolis on biofilm formation of Proteus mirabilis isolated from chronic wound infections. According to the findings, the most frequent factors of infection are Staphylococcus aureus (46.1%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (35.0%), and Proteus mirabilis (10.6%). Minimal inhibitory concentration and minimal bactericidal concentration values were assigned using the microbroth dilution test according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. Biofilm of Proteus mirabilis isolates was formed in 96-well polystyrene plates and treated with Manuka honey (concentrations from 1.88% to 30.0%) and ethanol extract of propolis (1.0% to 40.0%). After 24 h, the biofilm viability was expressed by formazan absorbance (λ = 470 nm). Manuka honey reduced the biofilm viability in all, and ethanol extract of propolis in most, of the concentrations tested. Ethanol extract of propolis at the concentrations of 20.0% and 40.0%, reduced biofilm viability stronger than ethanol itself. With these results comes the conclusion that these substances can reduce biofilm formation.
Epstein–Barr Virus: How Its Lytic Phase Contributes to Oncogenesis
Authors: Rosemarie Quincy , Sugden Bill
Published: November 2020

Epstein–Barr Virus (EBV) contributes to the development of lymphoid and epithelial malignancies. While EBV’s latent phase is more commonly associated with EBV-associated malignancies, there is increasing evidence that EBV’s lytic phase plays a role in EBV-mediated oncogenesis. The lytic phase contributes to oncogenesis primarily in two ways: (1) the production of infectious particles to infect more cells, and (2) the regulation of cellular oncogenic pathways, both cell autonomously and non-cell autonomously. The production of infectious particles requires the completion of the lytic phase. However, the regulation of cellular oncogenic pathways can be mediated by an incomplete (abortive) lytic phase, in which early lytic gene products contribute substantially, whereas late lytic products are largely dispensable. In this review, we discuss the evidence of EBV’s lytic phase contributing to oncogenesis and the role it plays in tumor formation and progression, as well as summarize known mechanisms by which EBV lytic products regulate oncogenic pathways. Understanding the contribution of EBV’s lytic phase to oncogenesis will help design ways to target it to treat EBV-associated malignancies.
Antimicrobial Susceptibility and Association with Toxin Determinants in Clostridium perfringens Isolates from Chickens
Authors: Wei Bai , Cha Se-Yeoun , Zhang Jun-Feng , Shang Ke , Park Hae-Chul , Kang JeongWoo , Lee Kwang-Jick , Kang Min , Jang Hyung-Kwan
Published: November 2020

The aim of the present study was to investigate variation in antimicrobial resistance in Clostridium perfringens (C. perfringens) isolated from chickens after withdrawal of antimicrobial growth promoters (AGPs); and to investigate the correlation between the presence of toxin genes (cpb2, netB, and tpeL) and antimicrobial resistance. Altogether, 162 isolates of C. perfringens were obtained from chickens displaying clinical signs of necrotic enteritis (n = 65) and from healthy chickens (n = 97) in Korea during 2010–2016. Compared to before AGP withdrawal, increased antimicrobial resistance or MIC50/MIC90 value was observed for nine antimicrobials including penicillin, tetracycline, tylosin, erythromycin, florfenicol, enrofloxacin, monensin, salinomycin, and maduramycin. Significantly (p < 0.05) higher resistance to gentamicin, clindamycin, and virginiamycin was found in isolates from chickens with necrotic enteritis compared to those from healthy chickens. tpeL gene was not detected in C. perfringens isolates from healthy chickens. A correlation between toxin gene prevalence and antibiotic resistance was found in the C. perfringens isolates. Because the usage of antimicrobials may contribute to the selection of both resistance and toxin genes, these can potentially make it challenging to control antimicrobial resistance in pathogenic colonies. Therefore, a more complete understanding of the interplay between resistance and virulence genes is required.
Plasma Phospholipid n-3/n-6 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Desaturase Activities in Relation to Moderate-to-Vigorous Physical Activity through Pregnancy: A Longitudinal Study within the NICHD Fetal Growth Studies
Authors: Chen Liwei , Zhu Yeyi , Fei Zhe , Hinkle Stefanie , Xia Tong , Liu Xinyue , Rahman Mohammad , Li Mengying , Wu Jing , Weir Natalie , Tsai Michael , Zhang Cuilin
Published: November 2020

Maternal plasma phospholipid polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) play critical roles in maternal health and fetal development. Beyond dietary factors, maternal moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) has been linked to multiple health benefits for both the mother and offspring, but studies investigating the influence of maternal MVPA on maternal PUFA profile are scarce. The objective of present study was to examine the time-specific and prospective associations of MVPA with plasma PUFA profile among pregnant women. This study included 321 participants from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) Fetal Growth Studies–Singletons cohort. Maternal plasma phospholipid PUFAs and MPVA were measured at four visits during pregnancy (10–14, 15–26, 23–31, and 33–39 gestational weeks (GW)). Associations of maternal MVPA with individual plasma PUFAs and desaturase activity were examined using generalized linear models. Maternal MVPA was associated inversely with plasma phospholipid linoleic acid, gamma-linolenic acid, and Δ6-desaturase in late pregnancy (23–31 or 33–39 GW), independent of maternal age, race, education, parity, pre-pregnancy body mass index, and dietary factors. Findings from this longitudinal study indicate that maternal habitual MVPA may play a role on PUFAs metabolism, particular by alerting plasma n-6 subclass and desaturase activity in late pregnancy. These associations are novel and merit confirmation in future studies.
How to Power the Energy–Water Nexus: Coupling Desalination and Hydrogen Energy Storage in Mini-Grids with Reversible Solid Oxide Cells
Authors: Baldinelli Arianna , Barelli Linda , Bidini Gianni , Cinti Giovanni , Di Michele Alessandro , Mondi Francesco
Published: November 2020

Sustainable Development Goals establish the main challenges humankind is called to tackle to assure equal comfort of living worldwide. Among these, the access to affordable renewable energy and clean water are overriding, especially in the context of developing economies. Reversible Solid Oxide Cells (rSOC) are a pivotal technology for their sector-coupling potential. This paper aims at studying the implementation of such a technology in new concept PV-hybrid energy storage mini-grids with close access to seawater. In such assets, rSOCs have a double useful effect: charge/discharge of the bulk energy storage combined with seawater desalination. Based on the outcomes of an experimental proof-of-concept on a single cell operated with salty water, the operation of the novel mini-grid is simulated throughout a solar year. Simulation results identify the fittest mini-grid configuration in order to achieve energy and environmental optimization, hence scoring a renewable penetration of more than 95%, marginal CO2 emissions (13 g/kWh), and almost complete coverage of load demand. Sector-coupling co-production rate (desalinated water versus electricity issued from the rSOC) is 0.29 L/kWh.
Auto-Aspirated DAF Sparger Study on Flow Hydrodynamics, Bubble Generation and Aeration Efficiency
Authors: Gradov Dmitry Vladimirovich , Saren Andrey , Kauppi Janne , Ullakko Kari , Koiranen Tuomas
Published: November 2020

A novel auto-aspirated sparger is examined experimentally in a closed-loop reactor (CLR) at lab scale using particle image velocimetry, high-speed camera and oxygen mass transfer rate measurements. State-of-the-art 3D printing technology was utilized to develop the sparger design in stainless steel. An insignificant change in the bubble size distribution was observed along the aerated flow, proving the existence of a low coalescence rate in the constraint domain of the CLR pipeline. The studied sparger created macrobubbles evenly dispersed in space. In pure water, the produced bubble size distribution from 190 to 2500 μm is controlled by liquid flow rate. The bubble size dynamics exhibited a power-law function of water flow rate approaching a stable minimum bubble size, which was attributed to the ratio of the fast-growing energy of the bubble surface tension over the kinetic energy of the stream. Potentially, the stream energy can efficiently disperse higher gas flow rates. The oxygen transfer rate was rapid and depended on the water flow rate. The aeration efficiency below 0.4 kW/m3 was superior to the commonly used aerating apparatuses tested at lab scale. The efficient gas dissolution technology has potential in water treatment and carbon capture processes applications.
A Novel Image Fusion Method of Multi-Spectral and SAR Images for Land Cover Classification
Authors: Quan Yinghui , Tong Yingping , Feng Wei , Dauphin Gabriel , Huang Wenjiang , Xing Mengdao
Published: November 2020

The fusion of multi-spectral and synthetic aperture radar (SAR) images could retain the advantages of each data, hence benefiting accurate land cover classification. However, some current image fusion methods face the challenge of producing unexpected noise. To overcome the aforementioned problem, this paper proposes a novel fusion method based on weighted median filter and Gram–Schmidt transform. In the proposed method, Sentinel-2A images and GF-3 images are respectively subjected to different preprocessing processes. Since weighted median filter does not strongly blur edges while filtering, it is applied to Sentinel-2A images for reducing noise. The processed Sentinel images are then transformed by Gram–Schmidt with GF-3 images. Two popular methods, principal component analysis method and traditional Gram–Schmidt transform, are used as the comparison methods in the experiment. In addition, random forest, a powerful ensemble model, is adopted as the land cover classifier due to its fast training speed and excellent classification performance. The overall accuracy, Kappa coefficient and classification map of the random forest are used as the evaluation criteria of the fusion method. Experiments conducted on five datasets demonstrate the superiority of the proposed method in both objective metrics and visual impressions. The experimental results indicate that the proposed method can improve the overall accuracy by up to 5% compared to using the original Sentinel-2A and has the potential to improve the satellite-based land cover classification accuracy.
Reduction of Dark Current in CMOS Image Sensor Pixels Using Hydrocarbon-Molecular-Ion-Implanted Double Epitaxial Si Wafers
Authors: Onaka-Masada Ayumi , Kadono Takeshi , Okuyama Ryosuke , Hirose Ryo , Kobayashi Koji , Suzuki Akihiro , Koga Yoshihiro , Kurita Kazunari
Published: November 2020

The impact of hydrocarbon-molecular (C3H6)-ion implantation in an epitaxial layer, which has low oxygen concentration, on the dark characteristics of complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor pixels was investigated by dark current spectroscopy. It was demonstrated that white spot defects of CMOS image sensor pixels when using a double epitaxial silicon wafer with C3H6-ion implanted in the first epitaxial layer were 40% lower than that when using an epitaxial silicon wafer with C3H6-ion implanted in the Czochralski-grown silicon substrate. This considerable reduction in white spot defects on the C3H6-ion-implanted double epitaxial silicon wafer may be due to the high gettering capability for metallic contamination during the device fabrication process and the suppression effects of oxygen diffusion into the device active layer. In addition, the defects with low internal oxygen concentration were observed in the C3H6-ion-implanted region of the double epitaxial silicon wafer after the device fabrication process. We found that the formation of defects with low internal oxygen concentration is a phenomenon specific to the C3H6-ion-implanted double epitaxial wafer. This finding suggests that the oxygen concentration in the defects being low is a factor in the high gettering capability for metallic impurities, and those defects are considered to directly contribute to the reduction in white spot defects in CMOS image sensor pixels.
5G Beyond 3GPP Release 15 for Connected Automated Mobility in Cross-Border Contexts
Authors: Velez Gorka , Martín Ángel , Pastor Giancarlo , Mutafungwa Edward
Published: November 2020

Fifth-generation (5G) mobile networks aim to be qualified as the core connectivity infrastructures to address connected automated mobility (CAM), both from a technological and from a business perspective, for the higher automation levels defined by the automotive industry. Specifically, in some territories such as the European Union the cross-border corridors have relevance, as they are the cohesive paths for terrestrial transport. Therefore, 5G for CAM applications is planned to be deployed there first. However, cross-border contexts imply paramount communication challenges, such as seamless roaming, not addressed by current technology. This paper identifies relevant future 5G enhancements, specifically those specified by Third-Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) releases beyond Release 15, and outlines how they will support the ambitions of highly automated driving in cross-border corridors. In order to conduct this study, a set of representative use cases and the related communication requirements were identified. Then, for each use case, the most relevant 5G features were proposed. Some open issues are described at the end.
Visual Guidance and Egg Collection Scheme for a Smart Poultry Robot for Free-Range Farms
Authors: Chang Chung-Liang , Xie Bo-Xuan , Wang Chia-Hui
Published: November 2020

Free-range chicken farming allows egg-laying hens to move freely through their environment and perform their natural behavior, including laying her eggs. However, it takes time to gather these eggs manually, giving rise to high labor costs. This study proposes a smart mobile robot for poultry farms that can recognize eggs of two different colors on free-range farms. The robot can also pick up and sort eggs without damaging them. An egg feature extraction method with automatic thresholding is employed to detect both white and brown eggs, and a behavior-based navigation method is applied to allow the robot to reach the eggs while avoiding obstacles. The robot can move towards the position of each egg via visual tracking. Once the egg is within the collection area of the robot, it is gathered, sorted and stored in the tank inside the robot. Experiments are carried out in an outdoor field of size 5 m × 5 m under different climatic conditions, and the results showed that the average egg recognition rate is between 94.7% and 97.6%. The proposed mobile poultry robot is low in production cost and simple in operation. It can provide chicken farmers with automatic egg gathering on free-range farms.
Remaining Useful Life Prognosis for Turbofan Engine Using Explainable Deep Neural Networks with Dimensionality Reduction
Authors: Hong Chang Woo , Lee Changmin , Lee Kwangsuk , Ko Min-Seung , Kim Dae Eun , Hur Kyeon
Published: November 2020

This study prognoses the remaining useful life of a turbofan engine using a deep learning model, which is essential for the health management of an engine. The proposed deep learning model affords a significantly improved accuracy by organizing networks with a one-dimensional convolutional neural network, long short-term memory, and bidirectional long short-term memory. In particular, this paper investigates two practical and crucial issues in applying the deep learning model for system prognosis. The first is the requirement of numerous sensors for different components, i.e., the curse of dimensionality. Second, the deep neural network cannot identify the problematic component of the turbofan engine due to its “black box” property. This study thus employs dimensionality reduction and Shapley additive explanation (SHAP) techniques. Dimensionality reduction in the model reduces the complexity and prevents overfitting, while maintaining high accuracy. SHAP analyzes and visualizes the black box to identify the sensors. The experimental results demonstrate the high accuracy and efficiency of the proposed model with dimensionality reduction and show that SHAP enhances the explainability in a conventional deep learning model for system prognosis.
Global Revisit Interval Analysis of Landsat-8 -9 and Sentinel-2A -2B Data for Terrestrial Monitoring
Authors: Li Jian , Chen Baozhang
Published: November 2020

The combination of Landsat-8, Landsat-9, Sentinel-2A and Sentinel-2B data provides a new perspective in remote sensing application for terrestrial monitoring. Jointly, these four sensors together offer global 10–30-m multi-spectral data coverage at a higher temporal revisit frequency. In this study, combinations of four sensors were used to examine the revisit interval by modelled orbit swath information. To investigate different factors that could influence data availability, an analysis was carried out for one year based on daytime surface observations of Landsat-8 and Sentinel-2A -2B. We found that (i) the global median average of revisit intervals for the combination of four sensors was 2.3 days; (ii) the global mean average number of surface observations was 141.4 for the combination of Landsat-8 and Sentinel-2A -2B; (iii) the global mean average cloud-weighted number of observations for the three sensors combined was 81.9. Three different locations were selected to compare with the cloud-weighted number of observations, and the results show an appropriate accuracy. The utility of combining four sensors together and the implication for terrestrial monitoring are discussed.
A Robust Localization Algorithm Based on NLOS Identification and Classification Filtering for Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Cheng Long , Huang Sihang , Xue Mingkun , Bi Yangyang
Published: November 2020

With the rapid development of information and communication technology, the wireless sensor network (WSN) has shown broad application prospects in a growing number of fields. The non-line-of-sight (NLOS) problem is the main challenge to WSN localization, which seriously reduces the positioning accuracy. In this paper, a robust localization algorithm based on NLOS identification and classification filtering for WSN is proposed to solve this problem. It is difficult to use a single filter to filter out NLOS noise in all cases since NLOS cases are extremely complicated in real scenarios. Therefore, in order to improve the robustness, we first propose a NLOS identification strategy to detect the severity of NLOS, and then NLOS situations are divided into two categories according to the severity: mild NLOS and severe NLOS. Secondly, classification filtering is performed to obtain respective position estimates. An extended Kalman filter is applied to filter line-of-sight (LOS) noise. For mild NLOS, the large outliers are clipped by the redescending score function in the robust extended Kalman filter, yielding superior performance. For severe NLOS, a severe NLOS mitigation algorithm based on LOS reconstruction is proposed, in which the average value of NLOS error is estimated and the measurements are reconstructed and corrected for subsequent positioning. Finally, an interactive multiple model algorithm is employed to obtain the final positioning result by weighting the position estimation of LOS and NLOS. Simulation and experimental results show that the proposed algorithm can effectively suppress NLOS error and obtain higher positioning accuracy when compared with existing algorithms.
DBOS: A Dialog-Based Object Query System for Hospital Nurses
Authors: Chu Edward T.-H. , Huang Zi-Zhe
Published: November 2020

Due to the advance of indoor positioning technology, it is now possible to trace mobile medical equipment (such as electrocardiography machines, patient monitors, and so on) being moved around a hospital ward. With the support of an object tracking system, nurses can easily locate and find a device, especially when they prepare for a shift change or a medical treatment. As nurses usually face high workloads, it is highly desirable to provide nurses with a user-friendly search interface integrated into a popular mobile app that they use daily. For this, DBOS, a dialog-based object query system, is proposed, which simulates a real conversation with users via the Line messaging app’s chatbot interface. A hybrid method that combines cosine similarity (CS) and term frequency–inverse document frequency (TF-IDF) is used to determine user intent. The result is returned to the user through Line’s interface. To evaluate the applicability of DBOS, 70 search queries given by a head nurse were tested. DBOS was compared with CS, TF-IDF, and Facebook Wit.ai respectively. The experiment results show that DBOS outperforms the abovementioned methods and can achieve a 92.8% accuracy in identifying user intent.