bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Potential Equivalents of TET2 Mutations
Authors: Pasca Sergiu , Jurj Ancuta , Zdrenghea Mihnea , Tomuleasa Ciprian
Published: March 2021

TET2 is a dioxygenase dependent on Fe2+ and α-ketoglutarate which oxidizes 5-methylcytosine (5meC) to 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmeC). TET proteins successively oxidize 5mC to yield 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC), 5-formylcytosine (5fC), and 5-carboxylcytosine (5caC). Among these oxidized methylcytosines, 5fC and 5caC are directly excised by thymine DNA glycosylase (TDG) and ultimately replaced with unmethylated cytosine. Mutations in TET2 have been shown to lead to a hypermethylated state of the genome and to be responsible for the initiation of the oncogenetic process, especially in myeloid and lymphoid malignancies. Nonetheless, this was also shown to be the case in other cancers. In AML, TET2 mutations have been observed to be mutually exclusive with IDH1, IDH2, and WT1 mutations, all of them showing a similar impact on the transcription profile of the affected cell. Because of this, it is possible that TET2/IDH1/2/WT1 mutated AML could be considered as having similar characteristics between each other. Nonetheless, other genes also interact with TET2 and influence its effect, thus making it possible that other signatures exist that would mimic the effect of TET2 mutations. Thus, in this review, we searched the literature for the genes that were observed to interact with TET2 and classified them in the following manner: transcription alteration, miRs, direct interaction, posttranslational changes, and substrate reduction. What we propose in the present review is the potential extension of the TET2/IDH1/2/WT1 entity with the addition of certain expression signatures that would be able to induce a similar phenotype with that induced by TET2 mutations. Nonetheless, we recommend that this approach be taken on a disease by disease basis.
Novel Biomarkers of Gastrointestinal Cancer
Authors: Shimura Takaya
Published: March 2021

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide [...]
IGF2BP3 Associates with Proliferative Phenotype and Prognostic Features in B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Mäkinen Artturi , Nikkilä Atte , Haapaniemi Teppo , Oksa Laura , Mehtonen Juha , Vänskä Matti , Heinäniemi Merja , Paavonen Timo , Lohi Olli
Published: March 2021

The oncofetal protein insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA-binding protein 3 (IGF2BP3) belongs to a family of RNA-binding proteins involved in localization, stability, and translational regulation of target RNAs. IGF2BP3 is used as a diagnostic and prognostic marker in several malignancies. Although the prognosis of pediatric B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) has improved, a subgroup of patients exhibits high-risk features and suffer from disease recurrence. We sought to identify additional biomarkers to improve diagnostics, and we assessed expression of IGF2BP3 in a population-based pediatric cohort of B-ALL using a tissue microarray platform. The majority of pediatric B-ALL cases were positive for IGF2BP3 immunohistochemistry and were associated with an increased proliferative phenotype and activated STAT5 signaling pathway. Two large gene expression data sets were probed for the expression of IGF2BP3—the highest levels were seen among the B-cell lymphomas of a germinal center origin and well-established (KMT2A-rearranged and ETV6-RUNX1) and novel subtypes of B-ALL (e.g., NUTM1 and ETV6-RUNX1-like). A high mRNA for IGF2BP3 was associated with a proliferative “metagene” signature and a high expression of CDK6 in B-ALL. A low expression portended inferior survival in a high-risk cohort of pediatric B-ALL. Overall, our results show that IGF2BP3 shows subtype-specificity in expression and provides prognostic utility in high-risk B-ALL.
Between a Rock and a Hard Place: An Epigenetic-Centric View of Testicular Germ Cell Tumors
Authors: Singh Ratnakar , Fazal Zeeshan , Freemantle Sarah J. , Spinella Michael J.
Published: March 2021

Compared to many common solid tumors, the main genetic drivers of most testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) are unknown. Decades of focus on genomic alterations in TGCTs including awareness of a near universal increase in copies of chromosome 12p have failed to uncover exceptional driver genes, especially in genes that can be targeted therapeutically. Thus far, TGCT patients have missed out on the benefits of targeted therapies available to treat most other malignancies. In the past decade there has been a greater appreciation that epigenetics may play an especially prominent role in TGCT etiology, progression, and hypersensitivity to conventional chemotherapy. While genetics undoubtedly plays a role in TGCT biology, this mini-review will focus on the epigenetic “states” or features of testicular cancer, with an emphasis on DNA methylation, histone modifications, and miRNAs associated with TGCT susceptibility, initiation, progression, and response to chemotherapy. In addition, we comment on the current status of epigenetic-based therapy and epigenetic biomarker development for TGCTs. Finally, we suggest a unifying “rock and a hard place” or “differentiate or die” model where the tumorigenicity and curability of TGCTs are both dependent on common but still ill-defined epigenetic states.
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Local Ablation and Surgery for Liver Metastases of Oligometastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Froelich Matthias F. , Schnitzer Moritz L. , Rathmann Nils , Tollens Fabian , Unterrainer Marcus , Rennebaum Shereen , Seidensticker Max , Ricke Jens , Rübenthaler Johannes , Kunz Wolfgang G.
Published: March 2021

Background: Colorectal cancer is among the most prevalent cancer entities worldwide, with every second patient developing liver metastases during their illness. For local treatment of liver metastases, a surgical approach as well as ablative treatment options, such as microwave ablation (MWA) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA), are available. The aim of this study is to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of RFA, MWA and surgery in the treatment of liver metastases of oligometastatic colorectal cancer (omCRC) that are amenable for all investigated treatment modalities. Methods: A decision analysis based on a Markov model assessed lifetime costs and quality-adjusted life years (QALY) related to the treatment strategies RFA, MWA and surgical resection. Input parameters were based on the best available and most recent evidence. Probabilistic sensitivity analyses (PSA) were performed with Monte Carlo simulations to evaluate model robustness. The percentage of cost-effective iterations was determined for different willingness-to-pay (WTP) thresholds. Results: The base-case analysis showed that surgery led to higher long-term costs compared to RFA and MWA (USD 41,848 vs. USD 36,937 vs. USD 35,234), while providing better long-term outcomes than RFA, yet slightly lower than MWA (6.80 vs. 6.30 vs. 6.95 QALYs for surgery, RFA and MWA, respectively). In PSA, MWA was the most cost-effective strategy for all WTP thresholds below USD 80,000 per QALY. Conclusions: In omCRC patients with liver metastases, MWA and surgery are estimated to provide comparable efficacy. MWA was identified as the most cost-effective strategy in intermediate resource settings and should be considered as an alternative to surgery in high resource settings.
Targeting the IL-6/STAT3 Signalling Cascade to Reverse Tamoxifen Resistance in Estrogen Receptor Positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Tsoi Ho , Man Ellen P. S. , Chau Ka Man , Khoo Ui-Soon
Published: March 2021

Breast cancer is the most common female cancer. About 70% of breast cancer patients are estrogen receptor α (ERα) positive (ER+) with tamoxifen being the most commonly used anti-endocrine therapy. However, up to 50% of patients who receive tamoxifen suffer recurrence. We previously identified BQ323636.1 (BQ), a novel splice variant of NCOR2, can robustly predict tamoxifen resistance in ER+ primary breast cancer. Here we show that BQ can enhance IL-6/STAT3 signalling. We demonstrated that through interfering with NCOR2 suppressive activity, BQ favours the binding of ER to IL-6 promoter and the binding of NF-ĸB to IL-6 receptor (IL-6R) promoter, leading to the up-regulation of both IL-6 and IL-6R and thus the activation of STAT3. Knockdown of IL-6R could compromise tamoxifen resistance mediated by BQ. Furthermore, Tocilizumab (TCZ), an antibody that binds to IL-6R, could effectively reverse tamoxifen resistance both in vitro and in vivo. Analysis of clinical breast cancer samples confirmed that IL-6R expression was significantly associated with BQ expression and tamoxifen resistance in primary breast cancer, with high IL-6R expression correlating with poorer survival. Multivariate Cox-regression analysis confirmed that high IL-6R expression remained significantly associated with poor overall as well as disease-specific survival in ER+ breast cancer.
Honokiol Prevents Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis-Induced Liver Cancer via EGFR Degradation through the Glucocorticoid Receptor—MIG6 Axis
Authors: Okuda Keiichiro , Umemura Atsushi , Umemura Shiori , Kataoka Seita , Taketani Hiroyoshi , Seko Yuya , Nishikawa Taichiro , Yamaguchi Kanji , Moriguchi Michihisa , Kanbara Yoshihiro , Arbiser Jack L. , Shima Toshihide , Okanoue Takeshi , Karin Michael , Itoh Yoshito
Published: March 2021

Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) has become a serious public health problem associated with metabolic syndrome. The mechanisms by which NASH induces hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain unknown. There are no approved drugs for treating NASH or preventing NASH-induced HCC. We used a genetic mouse model in which HCC was induced via high-fat diet feeding. This mouse model strongly resembles human NASH-induced HCC. The natural product honokiol (HNK) was tested for its preventative effects against NASH progression to HCC. Then, to clarify the mechanisms underlying HCC development, human HCC cells were treated with HNK. Human clinical specimens were also analyzed to explore this study’s clinical relevance. We found that epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling was hyperactivated in the livers of mice with NASH and human HCC specimens. Inhibition of EGFR signaling by HNK drastically attenuated HCC development in the mouse model. Mechanistically, HNK accelerated the nuclear translocation of glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and promoted mitogen-inducible gene 6 (MIG6)/ERBB receptor feedback inhibitor 1 (ERRFI1) expression, leading to EGFR degradation and thereby resulting in robust tumor suppression. In human samples, EGFR-positive HCC tissues and their corresponding non-tumor tissues exhibited decreased ERRFI1 mRNA expression. Additionally, GR-positive non-tumor liver tissues displayed lower EGFR expression. Livers from patients with advanced NASH exhibited decreased ERRFI1 expression. EGFR degradation or inactivation represents a novel approach for NASH–HCC treatment and prevention, and the GR–MIG6 axis is a newly defined target that can be activated by HNK and related compounds.
Remodeling of Cancer-Specific Metabolism under Hypoxia with Lactate Calcium Salt in Human Colorectal Cancer Cells
Authors: Jeong Keun-Yeong , Sim Jae-Jun , Park Min Hee , Kim Hwan Mook
Published: March 2021

Hypoxic cancer cells meet their growing energy requirements by upregulating glycolysis, resulting in increased glucose consumption and lactate production. Herein, we used a unique approach to change in anaerobic glycolysis of cancer cells by lactate calcium salt (CaLac). Human colorectal cancer (CRC) cells were used for the study. Intracellular calcium and lactate influx was confirmed following 2.5 mM CaLac treatment. The enzymatic activation of lactate dehydrogenase B (LDHB) and pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) through substrate reaction of CaLac was investigated. Changes in the intermediates of the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle were confirmed. The cell viability assay, tube formation, and wound-healing assay were performed as well as the confirmation of the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). In vivo antitumor effects were evaluated using heterotopic and metastatic xenograft animal models with 20 mg/kg CaLac administration. Intracellular calcium and lactate levels were increased following CaLac treatment in CRC cells under hypoxia. Then, enzymatic activation of LDHB and PDH were increased. Upon PDH knockdown, α-ketoglutarate levels were similar between CaLac-treated and untreated cells, indicating that TCA cycle restoration was dependent on CaLac-mediated LDHB and PDH reactivation. CaLac-mediated remodeling of cancer-specific anaerobic glycolysis induced destabilization of HIF-1α and a decrease in VEGF expression, leading to the inhibition of the migration of CRC cells. The significant inhibition of CRC growth and liver metastasis by CaLac administration was confirmed. Our study highlights the potential utility of CaLac supplementation in CRC patients who display reduced therapeutic responses to conventional modes owing to the hypoxic tumor microenvironment.
Application Prospect of K Used for Catalytic Removal of NOx, COx, and VOCs from Industrial Flue Gas: A Review
Authors: Xu Zhicheng , Li Yuran , Shi Huimin , Lin Yuting , Wang Yan , Wang Qiang , Zhu Tingyu
Published: March 2021

NOx, COx, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) widely exist in motor vehicle exhaust, coke oven flue gas, sintering flue gas, and pelletizing flue gas. Potassium species have an excellent promotion effect on various catalytic reactions for the treatment of these pollutants. This work reviews the promotion effects of potassium species on the reaction processes, including adsorption, desorption, the pathway and selectivity of reaction, recovery of active center, and effects on the properties of catalysts, including basicity, electron donor characteristics, redox property, active center, stability, and strong metal-to support interaction. The suggestions about how to improve the promotion effects of potassium species in various catalytic reactions are put forward, which involve controlling carriers, content, preparation methods and reaction conditions. The promotion effects of different alkali metals are also compared. The article number about commonly used active metals and promotion ways are also analyzed by bibliometric on NOx, COx, and VOCs. The promotion mechanism of potassium species on various reactions is similar; therefore, the application prospect of potassium species for the coupling control of multi-pollutants in industrial flue gas at low-temperature is described.
Protection of Stone Monuments Using a Brushing Treatment with Ammonium Oxalate
Authors: Mudronja Domagoj , Vanmeert Frederik , Fazinic Stjepko , Janssens Koen , Tibljas Darko , Desnica Vladan
Published: March 2021

Stone monuments and buildings are susceptible to weathering. Carbonate-based stones are especially vulnerable in acidic environments, whereas magmatic acidic stones are more susceptible to chemical weathering in basic environments. To slow down surface corrosion of limestone and marble artworks/buildings, protective coatings which inhibit calcite dissolution have been proposed. In this work, samples from two stone types with different porosity were treated with ammonium oxalate (AmOx) to create a protective layer of calcium oxalate (CaOx) using the previously developed brushing method. Two different synchrotron microscopy experiments were performed to determine its protective capability. X-ray powder diffraction (SR-μ-XRPD) in transmission geometry allowed visualization of the distributions of calcium carbonate and oxalates along the sample depths. In a second step, X-ray fluorescence (SR-μ-XRF) was used to check the efficiency/integrity of the protective surface coating layer. This was done by measuring the sulfur distribution on the stone surface after exposing the protected stones to sulfuric acid. XRPD showed the formation of a protective oxalate layer with a thickness of 5–15 µm on the less porous stone, while a 20–30 µm thick layer formed on the more porous stone. The XRF study showed that the optimal treatment time depends on the stone porosity. Increasing the treatment time from 1 to 3 h resulted in a decreased efficiency of the protective layer for the low porosity stone. We assume that this is due to the formation of vertical channels (cracks) in the protective layer.
Digital Citizenship and Digital Literacy in the Conditions of Social Crisis
Authors: Milenkova Valentina , Lendzhova Vladislava
Published: March 2021

In the present day, Internet technology and social media totally dominate as a means of communication. The media and social interaction have a two-sided nature, as the important role is not only those of the media messages to the users, but of the users to the media, too. This article aims to present the dominant importance of digital media, digital literacy transformation into a precondition for social inclusion, and an indicator of professional competence and social skills. Digital citizenship is a term that reflects the level of training and competencies, with a view to active participation in social, professional, and civic life. The article is based on two methods: Focus groups that were conducted in late 2019, which includes: Students, young mothers, pensioners, and unemployed. The second method used is the documents analysis—publications, materials, and quantitative results of research on social reactions to digital media as a source of information in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. The combination of materials and data that have been analyzed are related to the period of the lockdown between March 2020 and December 2020. In the time of global social crises and confrontations, digital media literacy has turned out to be of critical importance for the normal course of social events and their interpretations. In this regard, digital citizenship contributes to social understanding and control, as well as the individual practices in the global pandemic trajectory.
Stabilization of Superionic-Conducting High-Temperature Phase of Li(CB9H10) via Solid Solution Formation with Li2(B12H12)
Authors: Kim Sangryun , Kisu Kazuaki , Orimo Shin-ichi
Published: March 2021

We report the stabilization of the high-temperature (high-T) phase of lithium carba-closo-decaborate, Li(CB9H10), via the formation of solid solutions in a Li(CB9H10)-Li2(B12H12) quasi-binary system. Li(CB9H10)-based solid solutions in which [CB9H10]− is replaced by [B12H12]2− were obtained at compositions with low x values in the (1−x)Li(CB9H10)−xLi2(B12H12) system. An increase in the extent of [B12H12]2− substitution promoted stabilization of the high-T phase of Li(CB9H10), resulting in an increase in the lithium-ion conductivity. Superionic conductivities of over 10−3 S cm−1 were achieved for the compounds with 0.2 ≤ x ≤ 0.4. In addition, a comparison of the Li(CB9H10)−Li2(B12H12) system and the Li(CB9H10)−Li(CB11H12) system suggests that the valence of the complex anions plays an important role in the ionic conduction. In battery tests, an all-solid-state Li–TiS2 cell employing 0.6Li(CB9H10)−0.4Li2(B12H12) (x = 0.4) as a solid electrolyte presented reversible battery reactions during repeated discharge–charge cycles. The current study offers an insight into strategies to develop complex hydride solid electrolytes.
Field Performances of Rapid Diagnostic Tests Detecting Human Plasmodium Species: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis in India, 1990–2020
Authors: Kojom Foko Loick Pradel , Pande Veena , Singh Vineeta
Published: March 2021

Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) have become a mainstay of malaria diagnosis in endemic countries since their implementation in the 1990s. We conducted a 30-year systematic review and meta-analysis on malaria RDTs performance in India. Outcomes of interest were sensitivity (Se), specificity (Sp), positive/negative likelihood ratio (PLR/NLR), and diagnostic odd ratio (DOR). Among the 75 studies included, most of the studies were cross-sectional (65.3%), hospital-based (77.3%), and targeted febrile patients (90.6%). Nearly half of RDTs were designed for detecting Plasmodium falciparum only (47.5%) while the rest were for P. falciparum and P. vivax (11.9%), and P. falciparum/Pan-Plasmodium except for P. knowlesi (32.3%). When compared to light microscopy (gold standard), pooled estimates of performances were: Se = 97.0%, Sp = 96.0%, PLR = 22.4, NLR = 0.02 and DOR = 1080. In comparison to polymerase chain reaction, the RDTs showed Se = 89.0% and Sp = 99.0%. Performance outcomes (Se and Sp) were similar for RDT targeting P. falciparum only, but decreased for mixed and non-falciparum infections. Performances of malaria RDTs are still high India. However, there is a need for developing RDTs with regard to targeting minor malarial species, individuals carrying only mature gametocytes, and pfhrp2-deleted parasites.
Science Teaching Excites Medical Interest: A Qualitative Inquiry of Science Education during the 2020 COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Gordy Xiaoshan Z. , Sparkmon Wesley , Imeri Hyllore , Notebaert Andrew , Barnard Marie , Compretta Caroline , Dehon Erin , Taylor Juanyce , Stray Stephen , Sullivan Donna , Rockhold Robin W.
Published: March 2021

The national or local lockdowns in response to COVID-19 forced education systems to rapidly shift from in-person to distance learning. The hasty transition undoubtedly imposed tremendous challenges on teachers, students and distance learning infrastructure. The purpose of this study was to investigate how high school science teachers who had previously been trained in flipped-learning and advanced educational technology through the Science Teaching Excites Medical Interest (STEMI) program perceived their transition to distance learning during this pandemic. In this study eleven teachers were interviewed with a semi-structured interview guide. Data were analyzed using the deductive-inductive content analytic approach. Our results indicated that teachers reported having more confidence in using technology for teaching online due in part to their participation in the STEMI program. They also reported internet access as one of the most significant barriers, both for students and teachers. While some teachers thought that students may feel more in control of learning due to absence of time and place limits with distance learning, others may struggle to stay engaged without the classroom support they would normally have received. Teachers generally experienced increased workloads and harder work–life balance with online teaching. In spite of the unforeseen challenges, the pandemic situation afforded teachers with opportunities to adopt different technology in teaching and foresee the need for technology integration in order to better prepare for the unexpected in the future.
Influence of Aircraft Power Electronics Processing on Backup VHF Radio Systems
Authors: Leuchter Jan , Bloudicek Radim , Boril Jan , Bajer Josef , Blasch Erik
Published: March 2021

The paper describes the influence of power electronics, energy processing, and emergency radio systems (ERS) immunity testing on onboard aircraft equipment and ground stations providing air traffic services. The implementation of next-generation power electronics introduces potential hazards for the safety and reliability of aircraft systems, especially the interferences from power electronics with high-power processing. The paper focuses on clearly identifying, experimentally verifying, and quantifiably measuring the effects of power electronics processing using switching modes versus the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) of emergency radio systems with electromagnetic interference (EMI). EMI can be very critical when switching power radios utilize backup receivers, which are used as aircraft backup systems or airport last-resort systems. The switching power electronics process produces interfering electromagnetic energy to create problems with onboard aircraft radios or instrument landing system (ILS) avionics services. Analyses demonstrate significant threats and risks resulting from interferences between radio and power electronics in airborne systems. Results demonstrate the impact of interferences on intermediate-frequency processing, namely, for very high frequency (VHF) radios. The paper also describes the methodology of testing radio immunity against both weak and strong signals in accordance with recent aviation standards and guidance for military radio communication systems in the VHF band.
An Assessment of Deep Learning Models and Word Embeddings for Toxicity Detection within Online Textual Comments
Authors: Dessì Danilo , Recupero Diego Reforgiato , Sack Harald
Published: March 2021

Today, increasing numbers of people are interacting online and a lot of textual comments are being produced due to the explosion of online communication. However, a paramount inconvenience within online environments is that comments that are shared within digital platforms can hide hazards, such as fake news, insults, harassment, and, more in general, comments that may hurt someone’s feelings. In this scenario, the detection of this kind of toxicity has an important role to moderate online communication. Deep learning technologies have recently delivered impressive performance within Natural Language Processing applications encompassing Sentiment Analysis and emotion detection across numerous datasets. Such models do not need any pre-defined hand-picked features, but they learn sophisticated features from the input datasets by themselves. In such a domain, word embeddings have been widely used as a way of representing words in Sentiment Analysis tasks, proving to be very effective. Therefore, in this paper, we investigated the use of deep learning and word embeddings to detect six different types of toxicity within online comments. In doing so, the most suitable deep learning layers and state-of-the-art word embeddings for identifying toxicity are evaluated. The results suggest that Long-Short Term Memory layers in combination with mimicked word embeddings are a good choice for this task.
Enhancing User Experiences with Cloud Computing via Improving Utilitarian and Hedonic Factors
Authors: Sithipolvanichgul Juthamon , Chen Charlie , Land Judy , Ractham Peter
Published: March 2021

This study provides insights into the initial and post-adoption of cloud computing services by integrating information technology adoption, social influence, trust, security, and information systems quality theories. Social influence, hedonicity, and automaticity are hedonic predictors of user satisfaction with cloud computing services. Perceived risks, trust in the provider, and system quality are utilitarian predictors of user satisfaction with cloud computing services. The Partial Least Squares (PLS) was employed to test eight hypotheses on the causal relationships between the variables. Six out of eight hypotheses were supported. Hedonic factors appear to have more influence than the utilitarian factor of increasing user satisfaction with cloud computing services in the school setting. The findings lead to both theoretical and practical implications for improving the initial and post-adoption of cloud computing services.
Study and Application of Asymmetrical Disk Tools for Hard Rock Mining
Authors: Kotwica Krzysztof , Stopka Grzegorz , Prostański Dariusz
Published: March 2021

In this article, the method of hard rock mining by undercutting or back incision using asymmetrical disk tools as an alternative to the milling method with the use of cutting tools was described. The results of modelling the penetration of a single asymmetric disk tool edge into an artificial and natural rock sample were presented and compared with empirical laboratory tests. The effect of stand tests for mining artificial rock samples using asymmetrical disk tools mounted on the rotating plate was presented. The tests were carried out on two unique test stands. The solution of an innovative mining head with a complex motion trajectory, using the asymmetrical disk tools, was presented. The innovative mining head especially developed at the AGH Kraków Department of Machinery Engineering and Transport for roadheaders, was presented. The results of preliminary field tests with the use of this mining head were also described.
Ships on the Wall: Retracing African Trade Routes from Marseille, France
Authors: Regis Helen A.
Published: March 2021

With this essay on decolonizing ways of knowing, I seek to understand the phantom histories of my father’s French family. Filling in silences in written family accounts with scholarship on Marseille’s maritime commerce, African history, African Diaspora studies, and my own archival research, I seek to reconnect European, African, and Caribbean threads of my family story. Travelling from New Orleans to Marseille, Zanzibar, Ouidah, Porto-Novo, Martinique and Guadeloupe, this research at the intersections of personal and collective heritage links critical genealogies to colonial processes that structured the Atlantic world. Through an exploration of family documents, literature, and art, I travel the trade routes of la Maison Régis.
Improving RNA Branching Predictions: Advances and Limitations
Authors: Poznanović Svetlana , Wood Carson , Cloer Michael , Heitsch Christine
Published: March 2021

Minimum free energy prediction of RNA secondary structures is based on the Nearest Neighbor Thermodynamics Model. While such predictions are typically good, the accuracy can vary widely even for short sequences, and the branching thermodynamics are an important factor in this variance. Recently, the simplest model for multiloop energetics—a linear function of the number of branches and unpaired nucleotides—was found to be the best. Subsequently, a parametric analysis demonstrated that per family accuracy can be improved by changing the weightings in this linear function. However, the extent of improvement was not known due to the ad hoc method used to find the new parameters. Here we develop a branch-and-bound algorithm that finds the set of optimal parameters with the highest average accuracy for a given set of sequences. Our analysis shows that the previous ad hoc parameters are nearly optimal for tRNA and 5S rRNA sequences on both training and testing sets. Moreover, cross-family improvement is possible but more difficult because competing parameter regions favor different families. The results also indicate that restricting the unpaired nucleotide penalty to small values is warranted. This reduction makes analyzing longer sequences using the present techniques more feasible.
Single-Cell Sequencing Confirms Transcripts and VHDJH Rearrangements of Immunoglobulin Genes in Human Podocytes
Authors: Deng Zhenling , Yan Huige , Shi Zhan , Tian Xinyu , Cui Zhuan , Sun Yingchun , Wang Song , Zheng Danxia , Qiu Xiaoyan , Wang Yue
Published: March 2021

Most glomerular diseases are associated with inflammation caused by deposited pathogenic immunoglobulins (Igs), which are believed to be produced by B cells. However, our previous study indicated that the human podocyte cell line can produce IgG. In this study, we aimed to confirm the transcripts and characterize the repertoires of Igs in primary podocytes at single cell level. First, single-cell RNA sequencing of cell suspensions from “normal” kidney cortexes by a 10xGenomics Chromium system detected Ig transcripts in 7/360 podocytes and Ig gene segments in 106/360 podocytes. Then, we combined nested PCR with Sanger sequencing to detect the transcripts and characterize the repertoires of Igs in 48 single podocytes and found that five classes of Ig heavy chains were amplified in podocytes. Four-hundred and twenty-nine VHDJH rearrangement sequences were analyzed; podocyte-derived Igs exhibited classic VHDJH rearrangements with nucleotide additions and somatic hypermutations, biased VH1 usage and restricted diversity. Moreover, compared with the podocytes from healthy control that usually expressed one class of Ig and one VHDJH pattern, podocytes from patients expressed more classes of Ig, VHDJH patterns and somatic hypermutations. These findings suggested that podocytes can express Igs in normal condition and increase diversity in pathological situations.
From Laboratory towards Industrial Operation: Biomarkers for Acidophilic Metabolic Activity in Bioleaching Systems
Authors: Marín Sabrina , Cortés Mayra , Acosta Mauricio , Delgado Karla , Escuti Camila , Ayma Diego , Demergasso Cecilia
Published: March 2021

In the actual mining scenario, copper bioleaching, mainly raw mined material known as run-of-mine (ROM) copper bioleaching, is the best alternative for the treatment of marginal resources that are not currently considered part of the profitable reserves because of the cost associated with leading technologies in copper extraction. It is foreseen that bioleaching will play a complementary role in either concentration—as it does in Minera Escondida Ltd. (MEL)—or chloride main leaching plants. In that way, it will be possible to maximize mines with installed solvent-extraction and electrowinning capacities that have not been operative since the depletion of their oxide ores. One of the main obstacles for widening bioleaching technology applications is the lack of knowledge about the key events and the attributes of the technology’s critical events at the industrial level and mainly in ROM copper bioleaching industrial operations. It is relevant to assess the bed environment where the bacteria–mineral interaction occurs to learn about the limiting factors determining the leaching rate. Thus, due to inability to accurately determine in-situ key variables, their indirect assessment was evaluated by quantifying microbial metabolic-associated responses. Several candidate marker genes were selected to represent the predominant components of the microbial community inhabiting the industrial heap and the metabolisms involved in microbial responses to changes in the heap environment that affect the process performance. The microbial community’s predominant components were Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans, At. thiooxidans, Leptospirillum ferriphilum, and Sulfobacillus sp. Oxygen reduction, CO2 and N2 fixation/uptake, iron and sulfur oxidation, and response to osmotic stress were the metabolisms selected regarding research results previously reported in the system. After that, qPCR primers for each candidate gene were designed and validated. The expression profile of the selected genes vs. environmental key variables in pure cultures, column-leaching tests, and the industrial bioleaching heap was defined. We presented the results obtained from the industrial validation of the marker genes selected for assessing CO2 and N2 availability, osmotic stress response, as well as ferrous iron and sulfur oxidation activity in the bioleaching heap process of MEL. We demonstrated that molecular markers are useful for assessing limiting factors like nutrients and air supply, and the impact of the quality of recycled solutions. We also learned about the attributes of variables like CO2, ammonium, and sulfate levels that affect the industrial ROM-scale operation.
TERRA: A Novel Biomarker of Embryo Quality and Art Outcome
Authors: Rocca Maria Santa , Dusi Ludovica , Di Nisio Andrea , Alviggi Erminia , Iussig Benedetta , Bertelle Sara , De Toni Luca , Garolla Andrea , Foresta Carlo , Ferlin Alberto
Published: March 2021

Telomeres are considered to be an internal biological clock, and their progressive shortening has been associated with the risk of age-related diseases and reproductive alterations. Over recent years, an increasing number of studies have focused on the association between telomere length and fertility, identifying sperm telomere length (STL) as a novel biomarker of male fertility. Although typically considered to be repeated DNA sequences, telomeres have recently been shown to also include a long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) known as TERRA (telomeric repeat-containing RNAs). Interestingly, males with idiopathic infertility show reduced testicular TERRA expression, suggesting a link between TERRA and male fertility. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of seminal TERRA expression in embryo quality. To this end, STL and TERRA expression were quantified by Real Time qPCR in the semen of 35 men who underwent assisted reproductive technologies (ART) and 30 fertile men. We found that TERRA expression in semen and STL was reduced in patients that underwent ART (both p < 0.001). Interestingly, TERRA and STL expressions were positively correlated (p = 0.010), and TERRA expression was positively associated with embryo quality (p < 0.001). These preliminary findings suggest a role for TERRA in the maintenance of sperm telomere integrity during gametogenesis, and for the first time, TERRA expression was found as a predictive factor for embryo quality in the setting of assisted reproduction.
Parental Incarceration, Child Adversity, and Child Health: A Strategic Comparison Approach
Authors: Jackson Dylan B. , Testa Alexander , Semenza Daniel C. , Vaughn Michael G.
Published: March 2021

Background: Research points to parental incarceration as an important social determinant of child health. Even so, studies examining the health impact of parental incarceration in the context of diverse childhood stressors and adversities are lacking. Methods: The present study uses a large, nationally representative sample to compare U.S. children who were exposed to parental incarceration to a strategic comparison group of U.S. children who were not exposed to parental incarceration, but were nonetheless exposed to alternative family stressors and adversities. Results: The initial findings generally reveal worse health among children exposed to parental incarceration compared to those who are not exposed. Even so, these differences were partially or completely attenuated when comparing the incarceration-exposed group to more comparable groups of children exposed to a varying degree of alternative stressors/adversities. Conclusions: Programmatic efforts targeting parental incarceration as a means of promoting child health may be enhanced by adequately addressing co-occurring family stressors and child adversities.
Hemoglobin A1c Levels Associated with Age and Gender in Taiwanese Adults without Prior Diagnosis with Diabetes
Authors: Huang Shih-Hao , Huang Peng-Ju , Li Jhong-You , Su Yu-De , Lu Cheng-Chang , Shih Chia-Lung
Published: March 2021

Several studies have reported that Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels increase with age for people without diabetes. However, HbA1c levels associated with age and gender have not been well investigated for Taiwanese adults. The objective of this study was to investigate the sex-specific association between HbA1c levels and age for Taiwanese adults without diabetes. The data were collected from the Taiwan Biobank database with inclusive criteria being participants without diabetes. The association between HbA1c values and age was conducted by linear regression analysis, HbA1c values between sexes were compared by two-sample t-test, and HbA1c levels among age groups were compared using one-way ANOVA. The results showed that HbA1c levels were positively correlated with age, and the levels for males were significantly higher than for females among all participants. However, there was no significantly positive correlation between HbA1c levels and age in males for age group of 50–70 years. The levels of males were significantly higher than females for age groups of 30–39 and 40–49 years. There were significant differences in HbA1c levels among age groups for all participants, males, and females except for the two age groups of 50–59 and 60–70 years in males. Age and gender were important factors affecting HbA1c levels. Our results suggested that the HbA1c cut-point levels for the diagnosis of diabetes should vary by age and gender.
Heart Rate Variability Monitoring during Interferential Current Application in the Lower Back Area: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: De-la-Cruz-Torres Blanca , Martínez-Jiménez Eva , Navarro-Flores Emmanuel , Palomo-López Patricia , Abuín-Porras Vanesa , Díaz-Meco-Conde Raquel , López-López Daniel , Romero-Morales Carlos
Published: March 2021

Vasovagal reactions may occur occasionally during electrical stimulation using interferential current (IFC). The purpose of this study was to examine variations in autonomic activity during the application of IFC in asymptomatic participants by analysis of their heart rate variability (HRV). Seventy-three male volunteers were randomly assigned to a placebo group (n = 36; HRV was documented for 10 min, both at rest and during a placebo intervention) and an intervention group (n = 37; HRV was documented for 10 min in two conditions labelled as (1) rest and (2) application of IFC technique on the lumbar segment). The diameters of the Poincaré plot (SD1, SD2), stress score (SS), and the ratio between sympathetic and parasympathetic activity (S/PS) were measured. After interventions, differences amongst the placebo group and the IFC group were found in SD2 (p < 0.001), SS (p = 0.01) and S/PS ratio (p = 0.003). The IFC technique was associated with increased parasympathetic modulation, which could induce a vasovagal reaction. Monitorization of adverse reactions should be implemented during the application of IFC technique. HRV indicators might have a part in prevention of vasovagal reactions. Further studies in patients with lumbar pain are needed to explore possible differences in HRV responses due to the presence of chronic pain.
Biodegradation of Emerging Pharmaceuticals from Domestic Wastewater by Membrane Bioreactor: The Effect of Solid Retention Time
Authors: ALOBAIDI Raghad Asad Kadhim , ULUCAN-ALTUNTAS Kubra , MHEMID Rasha Khalid Sabri , MANAV-DEMIR Neslihan , CINAR Ozer
Published: March 2021

Although conventional biological treatment plants can remove basic pollutants, they are ineffective at removing recalcitrant pollutants. Membrane bioreactors contain promising technology and have the advantages of better effluent quality and lower sludge production compared to those of conventional biological treatment processes. In this study, the removal of pharmaceutical compounds by membrane bioreactors under different solid retention times (SRTs) was investigated. To study the effect of SRT on the removal of emerging pharmaceuticals, the levels of pharmaceuticals were measured over 96 days for the following retention times: 20, 30, and 40-day SRT. It was found that the 40-day SRT had the optimum performance in terms of the pharmaceuticals’ elimination. The removal efficiencies of the chemical oxygen demand (COD) for each selected SRT were higher than 96% at steady-state conditions. The highest degradation efficiency was observed for paracetamol. Paracetamol was the most removed compound followed by ranitidine, atenolol, bezafibrate, diclofenac, and carbamazepine. The microbial community at the phylum level was also analyzed to understand the biodegradability of pharmaceuticals. It was noticed that the Proteobacteria phylum increased from 46.8% to 60.0% after 96 days with the pharmaceuticals. The Actinobacteria class, which can metabolize paracetamol, carbamazepine, and atenolol, was also increased from 9.1% to 17.9% after adding pharmaceuticals. The by-products of diclofenac, bezafibrate, and carbamazepine were observed in the effluent samples.
Key Factors of Opening Gated Community in Urban Area: A Case Study of China
Authors: Wu Zezhou , Yang Lu , Xu Kexi , Zhang Jinming , Antwi-Afari Maxwell Fordjour
Published: March 2021

Gated communities are the most popular residential pattern in the urban areas of China. However, along with the increasing population density in urban areas, this pattern may have negative influences on people’s daily lives, such as traffic jams. To avoid the negative influences, the government has encouraged residents to open their gated communities; however, few positive actions have been taken. With this background, this study aims to explore the key factors in residents’ willingness to open their gated communities. To start with, a total of 26 potential factors were identified based on a comprehensive literature review. Then, a questionnaire was designed and distributed to collect empirical data. Furthermore, logistic regression was employed to analyze the collected data. Based on the derived results, it was revealed that concerns are different between male and female residents. Male residents regarded “community safety” and “property management” as having a significant impact on their decision to open a gated community, while female residents paid more attention to the factor of “proprietary equity”. The results of this study could provide valuable references that enable the government to better understand residents’ underlying concerns and to make relevant policy decisions.
Glycaemic Variability and Risk Factors of Pregnant Women with and without Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Measured by Continuous Glucose Monitoring
Authors: Gáborová Martina , Doničová Viera , Bačová Ivana , Pallayová Mária , Bona Martin , Peregrim Igor , Grešová Soňa , Štimmelová Judita , Dzugasová Barbora , Šalamonová Blichová Lenka , Donič Viliam
Published: March 2021

Background: The aim of the study was to compare the continuous glucose monitoring (CGM)-determined glycaemic variability (GV) of pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and without GDM (CG; control group). The secondary aim was to evaluate the association between risk factors of diabetes in pregnancy and parameters of glyceamic control. Methods: Demographic, biometric and biochemical parameters were obtained for pregnant women (20–38 years old) who after an oral glucose tolerance test were examined by 7-day continuous glucose monitoring using a iPro®2 Professional CGM. Results: The differences in GV between women with GDM and CG compared by total area under glucose curve (total AUC, (mmol·day/L) was statistically significant (p = 0.006). Other parameters of glycaemic control such as mean glucose, standard deviation, coefficient of variation, J-index, % time-above target range 7.8 mmol/L (%TAR), % time-in range 3.5–7.8 mmol/L (%TIR), time-below target range 3.5 mmol/L (%TBR), glycated haemoglobin were not significantly different in the study groups. Risk factors (a family history of diabetes, pre-pregnancy BMI, higher weight gain and age) correlated with parameters of glycaemic control. Conclusions: We found a significant difference in GV of women with and without GDM by total AUC determined from CGM. TIR metrics were close to significance. Our work points at an increased GV in relation to the risk factors of GDM. Pregnant women with risk factors have higher probability of severe GV with its consequences on maternal and fetal health state.
Relationship between the Performance in a Maximum Effort Test for Lifeguards and the Time Spent in a Water Rescue
Authors: López-García Sergio , Ruibal-Lista Brais , Palacios-Aguilar José , Santiago-Alonso Miguel , Prieto José Antonio
Published: March 2021

The main objective of this study was to analyse the relationship between the performance in a maximum incremental test for lifeguards, the IPTL, and the effectiveness of a 200 m water rescue on the beach. Initially, 20 professional lifeguards carried out the IPTL in the pool and then they performed a 200 m water rescue on the beach. The maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) in the IPTL was estimated. In both tests, heart rate (HR), blood lactate (La) and time achieved were measured. The VO2max estimated in the IPTL (VO2IPTL) was 44.2 ± 4.7 mL·kg·min−1, the time reached in the IPTL (TimeIPTL) was 726 ± 72 s and the time spent in the rescue (TimeRescue) was 222 ± 14 s. The results showed that the time reached in the pool (TimeIPTL) was the best predictor variable of the performance in water rescue (TimeRescue) (R2 = 0.59; p < 0.01). A significant correlation was also observed between the estimated maximum oxygen uptake and the beach rescue performance (R2 = 0.37; p = 0.05). These results reveal that the IPTL, a maximum incremental test specific to lifeguards, allows the estimation of the effectiveness of a 200 m rescue on the beach.