bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel Selection Approaches to Identify Antibodies Targeting Neoepitopes on the C5b6 Intermediate Complex to Inhibit Membrane Attack Complex Formation
Authors: Stach Lasse , Dinley Emily K. H. , Tournier Nadia , Bingham Ryan P. , Gormley Darren A. , Bramhall Jo L. , Taylor Adam , Clarkson Jane E. , Welbeck Katherine A. , Harris Claire L. , Feeney Maria , Hughes Jane P. , Sepp Armin , Batuwangala Thil D. , Kitchen Semra J. , Nichols Eva-Maria
Published: October 2021

The terminal pathway of complement is implicated in the pathology of multiple diseases and its inhibition is, therefore, an attractive therapeutic proposition. The practicalities of inhibiting this pathway, however, are challenging, as highlighted by the very few molecules in the clinic. The proteins are highly abundant, and assembly is mediated by high-affinity protein–protein interactions. One strategy is to target neoepitopes that are present transiently and only exist on active or intermediate complexes but not on the abundant native proteins. Here, we describe an antibody discovery campaign that generated neoepitope-specific mAbs against the C5b6 complex, a stable intermediate complex in terminal complement complex assembly. We used a highly diverse yeast-based antibody library of fully human IgGs to screen against soluble C5b6 antigen and successfully identified C5b6 neoepitope-specific antibodies. These antibodies were diverse, showed good binding to C5b6, and inhibited membrane attack complex (MAC) formation in a solution-based assay. However, when tested in a more physiologically relevant membrane-based assay these antibodies failed to inhibit MAC formation. Our data highlight the feasibility of identifying neoepitope binding mAbs, but also the technical challenges associated with the identification of functionally relevant, neoepitope-specific inhibitors of the terminal pathway.
R-Phycoerythrin from Colaconema formosanum (Rhodophyta), an Anti-Allergic and Collagen Promoting Material for Cosmeceuticals
Authors: Lee Po-Tsang , Yeh Han-Yang , Lung Wei-Qing-Chloe , Huang Jing , Chen Yi-Jung , Chen Boryuan , Nan Fan-Hua , Lee Meng-Chou
Published: October 2021

R-phycoerythrin (R-PE), a pigment complex found in red algae, was extracted and purified from a newly identified red alga, Colaconema formosanum, and its bioactivities were examined. It was revealed that R-PE treatment resulted in high cell viability (>70%) to the mammalian cell lines NIH-3T3, RBL-2H3, RAW264.7, and Hs68, and had no effect on cell morphology in NIH-3T3 cells. Its suppression effect was insignificant on the production of IL-6 and TNF-α in lipopolysaccharides-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. However, calcium ionophore A23187-induced β-hexosaminidase release was effectively inhibited in a dose-dependent manner in RBL-2H3 cells. Additionally, it was revealed to be non-irritating to bionic epidermal tissues. Notably, procollagen production was promoted in Hs68 cells. Overall, the data revealed that R-PE purified from C. formosanum exhibits anti-allergic and anti-aging bioactivities with no observed consequential toxicity on multiple mammalian cell lines as well as epidermal tissues, suggesting that this macromolecule is a novel material for potential cosmetic use.
A Novel Laser-Aided Machining and Polishing Process for Additive Manufacturing Materials with Multiple Endmill Emulating Scan Patterns
Authors: Parvez Mohammad Masud , Patel Sahil , Isanaka Sriram Praneeth , Liou Frank
Published: October 2021

In additive manufacturing (AM), the surface roughness of the deposited parts remains significantly higher than the admissible range for most applications. Additionally, the surface topography of AM parts exhibits waviness profiles between tracks and layers. Therefore, post-processing is indispensable to improve surface quality. Laser-aided machining and polishing can be effective surface improvement processes that can be used due to their availability as the primary energy sources in many metal AM processes. While the initial roughness and waviness of the surface of most AM parts are very high, to achieve dimensional accuracy and minimize roughness, a high input energy density is required during machining and polishing processes although such high energy density may induce process defects and escalate the phenomenon of wavelength asperities. In this paper, we propose a systematic approach to eliminate waviness and reduce surface roughness with the combination of laser-aided machining, macro-polishing, and micro-polishing processes. While machining reduces the initial waviness, low energy density during polishing can minimize this further. The average roughness (Ra=1.11μm) achieved in this study with optimized process parameters for both machining and polishing demonstrates a greater than 97% reduction in roughness when compared to the as-built part.
Transient Numerical Model on the Design Optimization of the Adiabatic Section Length for the Pulsating Heat Pipe
Authors: Bao Kangli , Zhuang Yuan , Gao Xu , Xu Yuanyuan , Wu Xilei , Han Xiaohong
Published: October 2021

In the application of pulsating heat pipes (PHPs), the lengths of the adiabatic sections are usually determined by the distance between the heat source and the heat sink, and have important effects on the performance of PHPs. However, there was little research on the effect of the adiabatic section lengths on the performance of PHPs. In this work, a new transient numerical model was proposed to investigate the transient flow and the heat transfer for PHPs with various adiabatic section lengths of 60, 120, 180, and 240 mm. Based on the numerical results, the flow and the heat transfer characteristics of the PHPs were analyzed. It was found that the flow velocities in the PHP with different adiabatic lengths increased with the increase in the heat input, and the mean velocity was calculated to be in the range of 0.139–0.428 m/s, which was consistent with the previous experimental results. The start-up performance of the PHP was better with shorter adiabatic section length. Furthermore, the thermal resistances of the PHPs with different adiabatic section lengths were calculated to analyze the effects of the adiabatic section length on the performance of the PHP. The results showed that when the heat input was 20 W, the PHP with the adiabatic section of 60 mm showed the lowest thermal resistance, whereas the PHP with longer adiabatic section length presented lower thermal resistance at high heat input (≥25 W).
Histological Aspects Regarding Dental Pulp of Diabetic Patients
Authors: Puşcaşu Cristina Gabriela , Ștefănescu Corina Laura , Murineanu Rodica Maria , Grigorian Mircea , Petcu Lucian Cristian , Dumea Elena , Sachelarie Liliana , Puşcaşu Radu Andrei
Published: October 2021

Background: The possible histological changes in dental pulp in teeth of diabetic patients are important to be understood, as the clinician will consider the best treatment choice for those teeth, especially if they are affected by decay. The aim of this paper is to assess if there are effects of diabetes-associated hyperglycemia on the nervous and vascular system of the dental pulp. Methods: Twenty-three dental pulp specimens of patients aged 36–70 years old were analyzed. All patients had been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes for at least 5 years. Results: Most of the patients had poorly controlled hyperglycemia, deep caries, but no clinical signs of pulpitis. The histological aspects of pulp specimens included frequently seen inflammatory infiltrate, degeneration of the nerves, thickened blood vessel walls, pulp sclerosis and frequent pulp calcifications, and even small necrotic areas. Conclusion: The analyzed dental pulp specimens of carious teeth of type 2 diabetic patients show fibrotic transformation of the dental pulp, with the presence of calcifications, arteriosclerosis and inflammatory infiltrate. In this situation, the attitude of the dentist in pulp vitality preservation in the case of carious teeth of diabetic patients should be limited.
Biodiversity of Pathogenic and Toxigenic Seed-Borne Mycoflora of Wheat in Egypt and Their Correlations with Weather Variables
Authors: Shabana Yasser M. , Rashad Younes M. , Ghoneem Khalid M. , Arafat Nehal S. , Aseel Dalia G. , Qi Aiming , Richard Benjamin , Fitt Bruce D. L.
Published: October 2021

Surveillance investigations for pathogenic and toxigenic fungi are important to refine our understanding of their epidemiology and help in predicting their outbreaks. During 2019, 198 samples of wheat grains were collected from 25 wheat-growing governorates in Egypt to detect and identify seed-borne mycoflora in vitro. Forty-four fungal species belonging to 20 genera were identified. Molecular data for these fungi were analyzed to construct a phylogenetic tree. Occurrence and biodiversity indicators were calculated. Two prevalent pathogens (average incidence > 40%) were Alternaria alternata and Cladosporium spp. Ustilago tritici was present in only seven of the 25 governorates, and less abundant than Tilletia tritici, the causal agent of stinking smut. Sinai governorate recorded the greatest species diversity, while the greatest species richness was in Qena and Sohag governorates. Canonical correspondence analysis of data for 20 fungal genera with temperature, relative humidity, precipitation, wind speed or solar radiation revealed that relative humidity was the most influential weather variable. It showed that occurrence and distribution of the 20 genera corresponded well with three out of four Egyptian climatic regions: Mediterranean, semi-arid, and arid. Knowing pathogen occurrence and distribution in Egypt is the first step to developing future disease management strategies to limit yield losses and improve food security. Despite this study being conducted on the wheat-growing areas in Egypt, our findings are useful for other wheat-growing countries that share the same climatic conditions. The correlation between a given fungus and the climatic variables can be useful in other ecosystems.
Plasma Renin Concentration in Critically Ill COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Melegari Gabriele , Veronesi Lucia , Maccieri Jessica , Ponzetta Francesco , Osmenaj Suela , Barbieri Alberto
Published: October 2021

Investigations of plasma renin concentration as a marker of organ perfusion in several intensive care settings have shown a significant correlation between its increase and a lack of perfusion in critical tissues, especially in septic patients. Castillo et al. proposed that activation of the non-canonical pathway of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system could improve cardiovascular homeostasis under COVID-19. During the first wave of COVID-19, we preliminarily enrolled a small cohort of subjects admitted to the Intensive Care Unit with a diagnosis of COVID-19 and acute respiratory distress syndrome. Their plasma renin value was measured in the first 24 h (T0), in the following 72 h (T1), and after one week (T2). In eight patients, we observed a higher plasma renin concentration—patients with difficulty weaning and in non-survivors. This is a preliminary observation. The variation of plasma renin levels in a septic condition is known, but settings such as COVID-19 infection have recently been investigated, showing a correlation with angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptor expression and functionality; in the near future, it will be interesting to have more data about its variation and value in COVID-19 patients.
Applications of Microfluidics in Liquid Crystal-Based Biosensors
Authors: Deng Jinan , Han Dandan , Yang Jun
Published: October 2021

Liquid crystals (LCs) with stimuli-responsive configuration transition and optical anisotropic properties have attracted enormous interest in the development of simple and label-free biosensors. The combination of microfluidics and the LCs offers great advantages over traditional LC-based biosensors including small sample consumption, fast analysis and low cost. Moreover, microfluidic techniques provide a promising tool to fabricate uniform and reproducible LC-based sensing platforms. In this review, we emphasize the recent development of microfluidics in the fabrication and integration of LC-based biosensors, including LC planar sensing platforms and LC droplets. Fabrication and integration of LC-based planar platforms with microfluidics for biosensing applications are first introduced. The generation and entrapment of monodisperse LC droplets with different microfluidic structures, as well as their applications in the detection of chemical and biological species, are then summarized. Finally, the challenges and future perspectives of the development of LC-based microfluidic biosensors are proposed. This review will promote the understanding of microfluidic techniques in LC-based biosensors and facilitate the development of LC-based microfluidic biosensing devices with high performance.
Influencing Factors of Resilience of PBSC Based on Empirical Analysis
Authors: Zhang Meijie , Liu Yuming , Ji Boya
Published: October 2021

With the widespread application of supply chain management ideas in the construction field, supply chain resilience as a tool for risk management has also begun to attract scholars’ attention. The prefabricated building supply chain (PBSC) is greatly affected by internal and external risks in China. This paper constructs a conceptual model of the factors affecting the resilience of the prefabricated building supply chain from the perspective of resilience management. Based on 202 valid questionnaires, it makes an empirical study on the above conceptual model by using the method of the structural equation model (SEM). The results show that the production and assembly construction of components have a significant impact on the resilience of supply chain of prefabricated buildings (PB), while the process of transportation and storage of components has no significant impact on it. In addition, the study also verified that information factors and partnership factors have a strong regulatory effect on these three processes. In theory, it provides a new perspective for the supply chain management of prefabricated buildings. In practice, it provides a decision-making basis and scientific guidance for the enterprises in the supply chain of prefabricated buildings in China.
Azygos Vein ICD Lead Implantation Lowers Defibrillation Threshold in a Patient with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Quarta Giovanni , Ferrari Paola , Giammarresi Andrea , Malanchini Giovanni , Leidi Cristina , Senni Michele , De Filippo Paolo
Published: October 2021

A 14-year-old boy with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) diagnosed at the age of 1 year and with massive left ventricular hypertrophy suffered an episode of ventricular fibrillation during mild effort. He underwent a dual-chamber implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) implantation. The defibrillation threshold testing (DFT) was ineffective. Subcutaneous multi-coli arrays tunneled into the left postero-lateral position and connected to the superior vena cava (SVC) port of the dual-chamber ICD were added to increase the myocardial mass involved in the defibrillation shock pathway. A new DFT was unsuccessful. The patient was transferred to our hospital for myectomy. An epicardial defibrillation patch was placed on the left ventricular lateral wall, but again, DFT testing was ineffective using the right ventricular (RV) coil to lateral patch as shock pathway. Another epicardial defibrillation patch was then placed on the inferior wall. In this case, DFT testing was effective with a defibrillation pathway between the two patches and the can. In November 2015, a high shock impedance alarm was recorded through remote monitoring, thus compromising the safety of the ICD shock pathway. The patient underwent the implant of a new trans-venous defibrillation coil lead in the azygos vein. After few months, the patient developed symptomatic severe aortic regurgitation and underwent an aortic valve replacement. During the operation, DFT testing was performed and was successful. Our case illustrates that azygous vein ICD lead implantation is efficacious in HCM with massive hypertrophy and high DFT, and prompts further studies to systematically investigate its efficacy in this particular subgroup of the HCM population.
Investigation on the Suitability of Engelhard Titanium Silicate as a Support for Ni-Catalysts in the Methanation Reaction
Authors: Frontera Patrizia , Miceli Mariachiara , Mauriello Francesco , De Luca Pierantonio , Macario Anastasia
Published: October 2021

Methanation reaction of carbon dioxide is currently envisaged as a facile solution for the storage and transportation of low-grade energies, contributing at the same time to the mitigation of CO2 emissions. In this work, a nickel catalyst impregnated onto a new support, Engelhard Titanium Silicates (ETS), is proposed, and its catalytic performance was tested toward the CO2 methanation reaction. Two types of ETS material were investigated, ETS-4 and ETS-10, that differ from each other in the titanium content, with Si/Ti around 2 and 3% by weight, respectively. Catalysts, loaded with 5% of nickel, were tested in the CO2 methanation reaction in the temperature range of 300–500 °C and were characterized by XRD, SEM–EDX, N2 adsorption–desorption and H2-TPR. Results showed an interesting catalytic activity of the Ni/ETS catalysts. Particularly, the best catalytic performances are showed by Ni/ETS-10: 68% CO2 conversion and 98% CH4 selectivity at T = 400 °C. The comparison of catalytic performance of Ni/ETS-10 with those obtained by other Ni-zeolites catalysts confirms that Ni/ETS-10 catalyst is a promising one for the CO2 methanation reaction.
Alteration of STIM1/Orai1-Mediated SOCE in Skeletal Muscle: Impact in Genetic Muscle Diseases and Beyond
Authors: Conte Elena , Imbrici Paola , Mantuano Paola , Coppola Maria Antonietta , Camerino Giulia Maria , De Luca Annamaria , Liantonio Antonella
Published: October 2021

Intracellular Ca2+ ions represent a signaling mediator that plays a critical role in regulating different muscular cellular processes. Ca2+ homeostasis preservation is essential for maintaining skeletal muscle structure and function. Store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE), a Ca2+-entry process activated by depletion of intracellular stores contributing to the regulation of various function in many cell types, is pivotal to ensure a proper Ca2+ homeostasis in muscle fibers. It is coordinated by STIM1, the main Ca2+ sensor located in the sarcoplasmic reticulum, and ORAI1 protein, a Ca2+-permeable channel located on transverse tubules. It is commonly accepted that Ca2+ entry via SOCE has the crucial role in short- and long-term muscle function, regulating and adapting many cellular processes including muscle contractility, postnatal development, myofiber phenotype and plasticity. Lack or mutations of STIM1 and/or Orai1 and the consequent SOCE alteration have been associated with serious consequences for muscle function. Importantly, evidence suggests that SOCE alteration can trigger a change of intracellular Ca2+ signaling in skeletal muscle, participating in the pathogenesis of different progressive muscle diseases such as tubular aggregate myopathy, muscular dystrophy, cachexia, and sarcopenia. This review provides a brief overview of the molecular mechanisms underlying STIM1/Orai1-dependent SOCE in skeletal muscle, focusing on how SOCE alteration could contribute to skeletal muscle wasting disorders and on how SOCE components could represent pharmacological targets with high therapeutic potential.
Thermally Activated Al(OH)3 Part II—Effect of Different Thermal Treatments
Authors: Vasile Bogdan Stefan , Dobra Gheorghe , Iliev Sorin , Cotet Lucian , Neacsu Ionela Andreea , Surdu Vasile Adrian , Nicoara Adrian Ionut , Boiangiu Alina , Filipescu Laurențiu
Published: October 2021

In this paper, the thermal decomposition of crystalline Al(OH)3 was studied over the temperature range of 260–400 °C for particles with a size between 10 and 150 µm. The weight losses and thermal effects occurring in each of the dehydration process were assessed using thermogravimetry (TG) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) thermal analysis. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns, refined by the Rietveld method, were used for mineral phase identification, phase composition analysis, and crystallinity degree determination. Moreover, the particle size distributions and their corresponding D10, D50, and D90 numeric values were determined with a laser analyzer. We observed a strong relationship between the calcination temperature, the initial gibbsite grade particle size, and the crystallinity of the resulting powders. Hence, for all endothermic effects identified by DSC, the associated temperature values significantly decreased insofar as the particle dimensions decreased. When the gibbsite was calcined at a low temperature, we identified small amounts of boehmite phase along with amorphous new phases and unconverted gibbsite, while the powders calcined at 400 °C gradually yielded a mixture of boehmite and crystalized γ-Al2O3. The crystallinity % of all phase transition products declined with the increase in particle size or temperature for all the samples.
Comparison of the Fluidized State Stability from Radioactive Particle Tracking Results
Authors: Salierno Gabriel , Gradišek Anton , Maestri Mauricio , Picabea Julia , Cassanello Miryan , De Blasio Cataldo , Cardona María Angélica , Hojman Daniel , Somacal Héctor
Published: October 2021

Currently, various industrial processes are carried out in fluidized bed reactors. Knowing its internal dynamics is fundamental for the intensification of these processes. This work assesses the motion of fluidized calcium alginate spheres under the influence of an upward fluid flow within a 1.2 m high and 0.1 m inner diameter acrylic column. The liquid–solid fluidized bed was compared with a gas–liquid–solid fluidized bed operation mode in terms of mixing behavior. The radioactive particle tracking technique is a proper methodology to study the internal dynamics of these kinds of equipment. Data gathered were analyzed with Shannon entropy as a dynamic mixing measure. Mixing times were found to be between 1 and 2.5 seconds for both fluidization modes. The liquid–solid fluidized bed presents a rather smooth mixing time profile along the column. On the other hand, the gas–liquid–solid fluidized bed showed high sensitivity of entropy production with height, reaching a sharp tendency break at the second quartile of the column. The Glansdorff–Prigogine stability measure can accurately capture flow regime transitions of the gas–liquid–solid fluidized bed, allowing it to be used to construct reliable operative windows for fluidization equipment.
Development of a Dynamic Modeling Approach to Simulate a Segmented Distillation Column for Flexible Operation
Authors: Bruns Bastian , Fasel Henrik , Grünewald Marcus , Riese Julia
Published: October 2021

The need for flexible process equipment has increased over the past decade in the chemical industry. However, process equipment such as distillation columns have limitations that significantly restrict flexible operation. We investigate a segmented tray column designed to allow flexible operation. The design consists of radial trays connected at the downcomer of each tray. Each segment can be operated separately, but depending on the capacity of the feed stream, additional segments can be activated or deactivated. The connection between the trays aims to transfer liquid from one stationary segment to the adjacent inactive segment, thereby reducing the time required for the start-up process. In a case study on the separation of methanol and water, we perform dynamic simulations to assess the reduction in the start-up time of inactive segments. The results confirm the advantages over standard tray designs. The segmented distillation column is a step towards improving the flexibility of separation operations.
Evaluation of the Anticancer and DNA-Binding Characteristics of Dichloro(diimine)zinc(II) Complexes
Authors: Babgi Bandar A. , Domyati Doaa , Abdellattif Magda H. , Hussien Mostafa A.
Published: October 2021

Several metal diimine complexes have been reported to possess anticancer properties. To evaluate the anticancer properties of tetrahedral zinc(II) diimine complexes, six complexes were synthesized with the general formula M(N^N)Cl2 {where M = Zn, Pt and N^N = 2,2’-biquinoline (1), 2,2’-dipyridylketone (2) and 4-((pyridine-2-ylmethylene)amino)phenol (3)}. In general, the intrinsic DNA-binding constants for the different compounds exhibited values within close proximity; the changes in the viscosity of the CT-DNA upon binding to the compounds suggest intercalation-binding mode. Molecular docking study predicted that complexes containing the highly planar ligand 2,2’-biquinoline are capable to establish π–π interactions with nucleobases of the DNA; the other four complexes engaged in donor–acceptor interactions with DNA nucleobases. The six complexes and two reference drugs (cisplatin and sunitinib) were tested against two cancer cell lines (COLO 205 and RCC-PR) and one normal cell line (LLC-MK2), highlighting the better performance of the zinc(II) complexes compared to their platinum(II) analogues. Moreover, zinc(II) complexes have higher selectivity index values than the reference drugs, with promising anticancer properties.
Diversification of Ferredoxins across Living Organisms
Authors: Nzuza Nomfundo , Padayachee Tiara , Chen Wanping , Gront Dominik , Nelson David R. , Syed Khajamohiddin
Published: October 2021

Ferredoxins, iron-sulfur (Fe-S) cluster proteins, play a key role in oxidoreduction reactions. To date, evolutionary analysis of these proteins across the domains of life have been confined to observing the abundance of Fe-S cluster types (2Fe-2S, 3Fe-4S, 4Fe-4S, 7Fe-8S (3Fe-4s and 4Fe-4S) and 2[4Fe-4S]) and the diversity of ferredoxins within these cluster types was not studied. To address this research gap, here we propose a subtype classification and nomenclature for ferredoxins based on the characteristic spacing between the cysteine amino acids of the Fe-S binding motif as a subtype signature to assess the diversity of ferredoxins across the living organisms. To test this hypothesis, comparative analysis of ferredoxins between bacterial groups, Alphaproteobacteria and Firmicutes and ferredoxins collected from species of different domains of life that are reported in the literature has been carried out. Ferredoxins were found to be highly diverse within their types. Large numbers of alphaproteobacterial species ferredoxin subtypes were found in Firmicutes species and the same ferredoxin subtypes across the species of Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya, suggesting shared common ancestral origin of ferredoxins between Archaea and Bacteria and lateral gene transfer of ferredoxins from prokaryotes (Archaea/Bacteria) to eukaryotes. This study opened new vistas for further analysis of diversity of ferredoxins in living organisms.
Loss of Melanopsin (OPN4) Leads to a Faster Cell Cycle Progression and Growth in Murine Melanocytes
Authors: de Assis Leonardo Vinícius Monteiro , Moraes Maria Nathália , Mendes Davi , Silva Matheus Molina , Menck Carlos Frederico Martins , Castrucci Ana Maria de Lauro
Published: October 2021

Skin melanocytes harbor a complex photosensitive system comprised of opsins, which were shown, in recent years, to display light- and thermo-independent functions. Based on this premise, we investigated whether melanopsin, OPN4, displays such a role in normal melanocytes. In this study, we found that murine Opn4KO melanocytes displayed a faster proliferation rate compared to Opn4WT melanocytes. Cell cycle population analysis demonstrated that OPN4KO melanocytes exhibited a faster cell cycle progression with reduced G0–G1, and highly increased S and slightly increased G2/M cell populations compared to the Opn4WT counterparts. Expression of specific cell cycle-related genes in Opn4KO melanocytes exhibited alterations that corroborate a faster cell cycle progression. We also found significant modification in gene and protein expression levels of important regulators of melanocyte physiology. PER1 protein level was higher while BMAL1 and REV-ERBα decreased in Opn4KO melanocytes compared to Opn4WT cells. Interestingly, the gene expression of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) was upregulated in Opn4KO melanocytes, which is in line with a higher proliferative capability. Taken altogether, we demonstrated that OPN4 regulates cell proliferation, cell cycle, and affects the expression of several important factors of the melanocyte physiology; thus, arguing for a putative tumor suppression role in melanocytes.
CgMFS1, a Major Facilitator Superfamily Transporter, Is Required for Sugar Transport, Oxidative Stress Resistance, and Pathogenicity of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides from Hevea brasiliensis
Authors: Liu Na , Wang Qiannan , He Chaozu , An Bang
Published: October 2021

Colletotrichum gloeosporioides is the main causal agent of anthracnose in various plant species. Determining the molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenicity and fungicide resistance of C. gloeosporioides could help build new strategies for disease control. The major facilitator superfamily (MFS) has multiple roles in the transport of a diverse range of substrates. In the present study, an MFS protein CgMFS1 was characterized in C. gloeosporioides. This protein contains seven transmembrane domains, and its predicted 3D structure is highly similar to the reported hexose transporters. To investigate the biological functions of CgMFS1, the gene knock-out mutant ΔCgMFS1 was constructed. A colony growth assay showed that the mutant was remarkably decreased in vegetative growth in minimal medium supplemented with monosaccharides and oligosaccharides as the sole carbon sources, whereas it showed a similar growth rate and colony morphology as wild types when using soluble starch as the carbon source. A stress assay revealed that CgMFS1 is involved in oxidative stress but not in the fungicide resistance of C. gloeosporioides. Furthermore, its pathogenicity was significantly impaired in the mutant, although its appressorium formation was not affected. Our results demonstrate that CgMFS1 is required for sugar transport, resistance to oxidative stress, and the pathogenicity of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides from Hevea brasiliensis.
The Impact of Chronotype on the Sleep and Training Responses of Elite Female Australian Footballers
Authors: Lastella Michele , Miller Dean J. , Quilelli Manuella , Roberts Spencer , Aisbett Brad , Condo Dominique
Published: October 2021

The primary aims of the present study were to examine the impact of chronotype on sleep/wake behaviour, perceived exertion, and training load among professional footballers. Thirty-six elite female professional football player’s (mean ± SD: age, 25 ± 4 y; weight, 68 ± 7 kg) sleep and training behaviours were examined for 10 consecutive nights during a pre-season period using a self-report online player-management system and wrist activity monitors. All athletes completed the Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire (rMEQ) on the first day of data collection. Eleven participants were morning types, seventeen participants were intermediate types, and three participants were evening types. Separate linear mixed models were conducted to assess differences in sleep, perceived exertion, and training behaviours between chronotype groups. Morning types woke up earlier (wake time: 07:19 ± 01:16 vs. 07:53 ± 01:01, p = 0.04) and reported higher ratings of perceived exertion compared to intermediate types (6.7 ± 1.1 vs. 5.9 ± 1.2, p = 0.01). No differences were observed between chronotype groups for bedtime, time in bed, total sleep time, sleep efficiency, training duration, or training load. In circumstances where professional female football players are required to train at a time opposing their natural circadian preference (e.g., morning type training in the evening), their perceived exertion during training may be higher than that of players that are training at a time that aligns with their natural circadian preference (e.g., evening type training in the evening). It is important for practitioners to monitor individual trends in training variables (e.g., rating of perceived exertion, training load) with relation to athlete chronotype and training time. Future research should examine the relationship between chronotype, training time, and rating of perceived exertion across different training durations.
Barrier Gesture Relaxation during Vaccination Campaign in France: Modelling Impact of Waning Immunity
Authors: Vignals Carole , Dick David W. , Thiébaut Rodolphe , Wittkop Linda , Prague Mélanie , Heffernan Jane M.
Published: October 2021

Non-pharmaceutical interventions have been implemented intermittently for more than a year in most countries of the world to mitigate the COVID-19 epidemic. In France, while the vaccination campaign is progressing, the French government has decided to remove many public health restrictions such as business closure, lockdowns, and curfews. Nonetheless, social distancing, mask wearing, and hand washing (also called barrier gestures) are still recommended. We utilize an age-structured compartmental SEIR model that takes into account the SARS-CoV-2 waning immunity, vaccination, and increased transmissibility from variants of concern to estimate if barrier gestures can be relaxed without causing a resurgence of severe infections. This model assumes that the susceptibility to infection is a function of immunity status, which depends on initial infection severity and vaccination status. It is calibrated on confirmed COVID-19 cases from the French surveillance database, and accounts for changes in contact behaviors due to the implementation of nation-wide public health policies. We study the partial and full relaxation of barrier gestures occurring from August to December 2021 under various immunity duration assumptions. Maintaining the application of barrier gestures appears essential to avoid a resurgence of severe infections that would exceed French health care capacities, while surmounting vaccine hesitancy represents the key to consider their relaxation. Immunity duration assumptions significantly influence the short-term dynamic of the epidemic, which should be considered for further modelling.
Resolution of a Metastable Racemic Compound of Anhydrous Phencyphos by Hydrate Formation
Authors: Leeman Michel , Kellogg Richard M.
Published: October 2021

The resolution of 2-hydroxy-5,5-dimethyl-4-phenyl-1,3,2-dioxaphosphorinan 2-oxide (phencyphos) was achieved by dissolution of anhydrous racemic phencyphos, a racemic compound, accompanied by simultaneous secondary nucleation of the dissolved racemate on to enantiopure seeds of phencyphos hydrate, a conglomerate. The seeds were placed in separate compartments and the pure enantiomers could be conveniently collected from these compartments after the dissolution of the anhydrous racemate.
Recent Advances in Photodynamic Imaging and Therapy in Hepatobiliary Malignancies: Clinical and Experimental Aspects
Authors: Nanashima Atsushi , Hiyoshi Masahide , Imamura Naoya , Yano Koichi , Hamada Takeomi , Kai Kengo
Published: October 2021

The therapeutic and diagnostic modalities of light are well known, and derivative photodynamic reactions with photosensitizers (PSs), specific wavelengths of light exposure and the existence of tissue oxygen have been developed since the 20th century. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an effective local treatment for cancer-specific laser ablation in malignancies of some organs, including the bile duct. Although curability for extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma is expected with surgery alone, patients with unresectable or remnant biliary cancer need other effective palliative therapies, including PDT. The effectiveness of PDT for cholangiocarcinoma has been reported experimentally or clinically, but it is not the standard option now due to problems with accompanied photosensitivity, limited access routes of irradiation, tumor hypoxia, etc. Novel derivative treatments such as photoimmunotherapy have not been applied in the field hepatobiliary system. Photodynamic diagnosis (PDD) has been more widely applied in the clinical diagnoses of liver malignancies or liver vascularization. At present, 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) and indocyanine green (ICG) dyes are mainly used as PSs in PDD, and ICG has been applied for detecting liver malignancies or vascularization. However, no ideal tools for combining both PDD and PDT for solid tumors, including hepatobiliary malignancies, have been clinically developed. To proceed with experimental and clinical trials, it is necessary to clarify the effective photosensitive drugs that are feasible for photochemical diagnosis and local treatment.
Synaptotagmin 13 Is Highly Expressed in Estrogen Receptor-Positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Ichikawa Takahiro , Shibata Masahiro , Inaishi Takahiro , Soeda Ikumi , Kanda Mitsuro , Hayashi Masamichi , Takano Yuko , Takeuchi Dai , Tsunoda Nobuyuki , Kodera Yasuhiro , Kikumori Toyone
Published: October 2021

Background: Accumulating evidence indicates tumor-promoting roles of synaptotagmin 13 (SYT13) in several cancers; however, no studies have investigated its expression in breast cancer (BC). This study aimed to clarify the significance of SYT13 in BC. Methods: SYT13 mRNA expression levels were evaluated in BC cell lines. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) array analysis was conducted to determine the correlation between expression levels of SYT13 and other tumor-associated genes. Then, the association of SYT13 expression levels in the clinical BC specimens with patients’ clinicopathological factors was evaluated. These findings were subsequently validated using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Results: Among 13 BC cell lines, estrogen receptor (ER)-positive cells showed higher SYT13 mRNA levels than ER-negative cells. PCR array analysis revealed positive correlations between SYT13 and several oncogenes predominantly expressed in ER-positive BC, such as estrogen receptor 1, AKT serine/threonine kinase 1, and cyclin-dependent kinases 4. In 165 patients, ER-positive specimens exhibited higher SYT13 mRNA expression levels than ER-negative specimens. The TCGA database analysis confirmed that patients with ER-positive BC expressed higher SYT13 levels than ER-negative patients. Conclusion: This study suggests that SYT13 is highly expressed in ER-positive BC cells and clinical specimens, and there is a positive association of SYT13 with the ER signaling pathways.
Next Generation Sequencing of Cerebrospinal Fluid B Cell Repertoires in Multiple Sclerosis and Other Neuro-Inflammatory Diseases—A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Ruschil Christoph , Kemmerer Constanze Louisa , Beller Lena , Gabernet Gisela , Kowarik Markus Christian
Published: October 2021

During the last few decades, the role of B cells has been well established and redefined in neuro-inflammatory diseases, including multiple sclerosis and autoantibody-associated diseases. In particular, B cell maturation and trafficking across the blood–brain barrier (BBB) has recently been deciphered with the development of next-generation sequencing (NGS) approaches, which allow the assessment of representative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and peripheral blood B cell repertoires. In this review, we perform literature research focusing on NGS studies that allow further insights into B cell pathophysiology during neuro-inflammation. Besides the analysis of CSF B cells, the paralleled assessment of peripheral blood B cell repertoire provides deep insights into not only the CSF compartment, but also in B cell trafficking patterns across the BBB. In multiple sclerosis, CSF-specific B cell maturation, in combination with a bidirectional exchange of B cells across the BBB, is consistently detectable. These data suggest that B cells most likely encounter antigen(s) within the CSF and migrate across the BBB, with further maturation also taking place in the periphery. Autoantibody-mediated diseases, such as neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder and LGI1 / NMDAR encephalitis, also show features of a CSF-specific B cell maturation and clonal connectivity with peripheral blood. In conclusion, these data suggest an intense exchange of B cells across the BBB, possibly feeding autoimmune circuits. Further developments in sequencing technologies will help to dissect the exact pathophysiologic mechanisms of B cells during neuro-inflammation.
The Financial Costs of Registered Nurse-Led Relationship-Centred Care: A Single-Case Australian Feasibility Study
Authors: Wilson Nathan J. , Reeve Rebecca , Lin Zhen , Lewis Peter
Published: October 2021

People with intellectual disability are accommodated and cared for in a variety of settings in Australia. Direct care is delivered by a mixture of qualified health professionals (nurses) and unlicenced disability support workers in varying combinations depending on the complexity and chronicity of comorbidities experienced by people with intellectual disability. Although some of these disability services continue to employ registered nurses, the size and specialised education of this workforce is decreasing due to a myriad of policy changes, which has the effect of compromising continuity of care and adverse effects on health outcomes. The objective of this study was to compare the differences on the financial cost of a single case using different models of care with, and without, specialised registered nursing input. The single case had profound intellectual disability and multiple chronic and complex health problems and was cared for by a model that included 24 h registered nurse care and support. Four financial scenarios are presented, and the differences both in terms of actual cost, and potential health outcomes are discussed. This study has set the scene for a large study where health economic data can be compared against multiple cases, across a range of care contexts, in order to advance evidence about which models provide the better health outcomes for people with intellectual disability and associated multiple chronic and complex health problems.
MAGI: Multistream Aerial Segmentation of Ground Images with Small-Scale Drones
Authors: Avola Danilo , Pannone Daniele
Published: October 2021

In recent years, small-scale drones have been used in heterogeneous tasks, such as border control, precision agriculture, and search and rescue. This is mainly due to their small size that allows for easy deployment, their low cost, and their increasing computing capability. The latter aspect allows for researchers and industries to develop complex machine- and deep-learning algorithms for several challenging tasks, such as object classification, object detection, and segmentation. Focusing on segmentation, this paper proposes a novel deep-learning model for semantic segmentation. The model follows a fully convolutional multistream approach to perform segmentation on different image scales. Several streams perform convolutions by exploiting kernels of different sizes, making segmentation tasks robust to flight altitude changes. Extensive experiments were performed on the UAV Mosaicking and Change Detection (UMCD) dataset, highlighting the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Application of Fixed-Wing UAV-Based Photogrammetry Data for Snow Depth Mapping in Alpine Conditions
Authors: Masný Matej , Weis Karol , Biskupič Marek
Published: October 2021

UAV-based photogrammetry has many applications today. Measuring of snow depth using Structure-from-Motion (SfM) techniques is one of them. Determining the depth of snow is very important for a wide range of scientific research activities. In the alpine environment, this information is crucial, especially in the sphere of risk management (snow avalanches). The main aim of this study is to test the applicability of fixed-wing UAV with RTK technology in real alpine conditions to determine snow depth. The territory in West Tatras as a part of Tatra Mountains (Western Carpathians) in the northern part of Slovakia was analyzed. The study area covers more than 1.2 km2 with an elevation of almost 900 m and it is characterized by frequent occurrence of snow avalanches. It was found that the use of different filtering modes (at the level point cloud generation) had no distinct (statistically significant) effect on the result. On the other hand, the significant influence of vegetation characteristics was confirmed. Determination of snow depth based on seasonal digital surface model subtraction can be affected by the process of vegetation compression. The results also point on the importance of RTK methods when mapping areas where it is not possible to place ground control points.
Using Machine Learning Approaches to Explore Non-Cognitive Variables Influencing Reading Proficiency in English among Filipino Learners
Authors: Bernardo Allan B. I. , Cordel Macario O. , Lucas Rochelle Irene G. , Teves Jude Michael M. , Yap Sashmir A. , Chua Unisse C.
Published: October 2021

Filipino students ranked last in reading proficiency among all countries/territories in the PISA 2018, with only 19% meeting the minimum (Level 2) standard. It is imperative to understand the range of factors that contribute to low reading proficiency, specifically variables that can be the target of interventions to help students with poor reading proficiency. We used machine learning approaches, specifically binary classification methods, to identify the variables that best predict low (Level 1b and lower) vs. higher (Level 1a or better) reading proficiency using the Philippine PISA data from a nationally representative sample of 15-year-old students. Several binary classification methods were applied, and the best classification model was derived using support vector machines (SVM), with 81.2% average test accuracy. The 20 variables with the highest impact in the model were identified and interpreted using a socioecological perspective of development and learning. These variables included students’ home-related resources and socioeconomic constraints, learning motivation and mindsets, classroom reading experiences with teachers, reading self-beliefs, attitudes, and experiences, and social experiences in the school environment. The results were discussed with reference to the need for a systems perspective to addresses poor proficiency, requiring interconnected interventions that go beyond students’ classroom reading.
School Health Promotion at the Time of COVID-19: An Exploratory Investigation with School Leaders and Teachers
Authors: Brivio Francesca , Fagnani Laura , Pezzoli Simona , Fontana Ilenia , Biffi Luca , Mazzaferro Alessandro Domenico , Velasco Veronica , Greco Andrea
Published: October 2021

The Coronavirus pandemic has impacted the entire school population’s emotions and the disruption of the organization of the school world. In this context it is important to reflect on the role of health promotion at school. The present study aimed at exploring school leaders’ and teachers’ perspectives and experiences about COVID-19 pandemic and its effects in the school and education system. The first objective was to gather the experience of school leaders regarding the change in school organization, with particular attention to organizational and health promotion aspects. The second was to investigate the perception of health promotion and self-efficacy of teachers in primary, middle and high schools. The research was conducted using qualitative (focus groups for the school leaders) and quantitative methods (questionnaires for the teachers). The findings showed new ways of improving wellbeing at school and implementing health promotion through the sharing of good practice between school leaders. The need for time and space to reflect among school leaders on the educational and didactic aspects of school organization also emerged. Teachers showed a low to medium level of self-efficacy regarding the adoption of strategies in line with health promotion; specificities for each grade and level will be discussed.