bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FMR1 and Autism, an Intriguing Connection Revisited
Authors: Fyke William , Velinov Milen
Published: August 2021

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) represents a distinct phenotype of behavioral dysfunction that includes deficiencies in communication and stereotypic behaviors. ASD affects about 2% of the US population. It is a highly heritable spectrum of conditions with substantial genetic heterogeneity. To date, mutations in over 100 genes have been reported in association with ASD phenotypes. Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common single-gene disorder associated with ASD. The gene associated with FXS, FMR1 is located on chromosome X. Accordingly, the condition has more severe manifestations in males. FXS results from the loss of function of FMR1 due to the expansion of an unstable CGG repeat located in the 5′′ untranslated region of the gene. About 50% of the FXS males and 20% of the FXS females meet the Diagnostic Statistical Manual 5 (DSM-5) criteria for ASD. Among the individuals with ASD, about 3% test positive for FXS. FMRP, the protein product of FMR1, is a major gene regulator in the central nervous system. Multiple pathways regulated by FMRP are found to be dysfunctional in ASD patients who do not have FXS. Thus, FXS presents the opportunity to study cellular phenomena that may have wider applications in the management of ASD and to develop new strategies for ASD therapy.
The Study of Uranium Accumulation in Marine Bottom Sediments: Effect of Redox Conditions at the Time of Sedimentation
Authors: Khaustova Nadezhda , Tikhomirova Yulia , Korost Svetlana , Poludetkina Elena , Voropaev Andrey , Mironenko Mikhail , Spasennykh Mikhail
Published: August 2021

To evaluate the effect of redox conditions at the sedimentation stage on uranium content and U/TOC ratio in marine source rocks, we analyzed the accumulation of uranium in modern marine bottom sediments formed in different redox conditions. The behavior of uranium from bottom sediments formed in oxidizing and sub-oxidizing settings has been studied on the sediments of the Upper Pleistocene–Holocene age accumulated in the coastal area of the White Sea (Kandalaksha Gulf). We studied the content of uranium, Eh, pH, TOC, C, H, N, and S element and isotope compositions and other parameters in two sampled columns of bottom sediments at a depth of 0–2.5 m. The composition of sediments was typical for the shelf zone where marine genesis mixes with the continental run-off. The upper layer of sediments (0–50 cm) were characterized by oxidizing conditions (Eh ~ 400 mV); with the increase in depth, redox conditions changed from oxidizing to reducing (−0 ÷ −200 mV). The uranium concentration in the upper layer was 1–1.5 ppm, U/TOC ratio varied in the range of 0.8–1.1 ppmU/%TOC. The uranium content and U/TOC ratio increased up to the values of 2.6 ppm and 1.4 ppmU/%TOC at a depth of 0.5–2.5 m, respectively, but the general content of uranium in the studied environment was close to the values characterizing continental run-off. The results obtained for the White Sea sediments were compared with the sediment of the Black Sea, formed in the anoxic conditions of hydrogen sulfide contamination. In these conditions, the uranium content varied from 10 to 20 ppm. The obtained data were interpreted using thermodynamic modeling of the uranium forms in the seawater at different pH and Eh. This study demonstrated that the change of redox conditions from oxidizing to reducing leads to increased uranium content due to a decrease in uranium’s solubility in water. These results show that oxidation–reduction potential could be one of the most important factors controlling uranium content in black shales formed in the marine environment.
Common Medical and Dental Problems of Older Adults: A Narrative Review
Authors: Chan Alice Kit Ying , Tamrakar Manisha , Jiang Chloe Meng , Lo Edward Chin Man , Leung Katherine Chiu Man , Chu Chun-Hung
Published: August 2021

The advancement of medicine has reduced the rate of mortality and older adult population is increasing. Among the 7,700,000,000 world population in 2019, 1 in 11 people were at the age of 65 or more. The population is expected to increase to 1 in 6 people by 2050. Older adults have degenerative changes that become more severe with age. This study used the World Health Organization’s websites and PubMed and Google Scholar databases to review current global oral and systemic health issues. Studies generally reported that many older adults have no regular dental checkup. Common oral diseases such as dental caries particularly root caries and periodontal disease are highly prevalent among them. These oral diseases are often interrelated with their systemic problems. A meta-analysis reported diabetes increases the incidence and progression of periodontitis by 86%. A decrease in salivary output is common among older adults having polypharmacy. A review reported the caries risk in older adults increases by 60% with low resting pH and low stimulated salivary flow rate. Many older adults suffer from dementia and depression which complicates the delivery of dental treatment. Proper oral hygiene practice and dental care at supine position are often difficult to be carried out if they have rheumatoid arthritis. With the increasing need of elderly dental care, dentists and other dental personnel should understand interlaced oral and general health in order to provide a successful dental care plan for older adults. The aim of this study is to give an overview of the common medical conditions and dental problems and their impacts on older adults.
Psycho-Oncology: A Bibliometric Review of the 100 Most-Cited Articles
Authors: Fox Susan , Lynch Julie , D’Alton Paul , Carr Alan
Published: August 2021

(1) Background: A bibliometric review of psycho-oncology research is overdue. (2) Methods: The 100 most-cited journal articles were compiled and ranked according to Scopus. (3) Results: The total citation count for the results ranged from 488–8509 (Mean = 940.27; SD = 1015.69). A significant correlation was found between years since publication and number of citations (p = 0.039). The majority of research originated from the United States (66%). The vast majority of research publications were original articles (80%). Observational research study designs represented the majority of studies (37%). Mixed cancer population research studies represented the largest cancer research population (36%). Positive psychology topics represented the most prolific proportion of studies (30%). Findings were reported in line with PRISMA-ScR guidelines. (4) Conclusions: This analysis offers a comprehensive account of seminal journal articles in psycho-oncology, identifying landmark contributions and areas for future research developments within the field, namely highlighting a need for more RCT studies. This analysis serves as an educational tool for interdisciplinary researchers and clinicians to support compassionate cancer care.
Impact of Irrigation with Treated Domestic Wastewater on Squash (Cucurbita pepo L.) Fruit and Seed under Semi-Arid Conditions
Authors: Makhadmeh Ibrahim M. , Gharaiebeh Seba F. , Albalasmeh Ammar A.
Published: August 2021

The present study investigated the effect of using municipal treated wastewater in irrigation on plant growth and seed quality of squash as compared to fresh water. The physico-chemical properties of both water sources were investigated. Soil, fruits and seeds were tested for heavy metals presence and accumulation. A number of seed composition parameters were also measured. Growth parameters (fruit length, diameter and oven-dried weight) were increased in response to irrigation with treated wastewater as compared to control. All tested heavy metals concentrations were below the toxic limit of the Jordanian standards. Crude protein content was highest (41.28%) in naked seeds under treated wastewater treatment, whereas the lowest content (33.57%) was under freshwater treatment of the whole seeds.
The Importance of Biological Maturation and Years of Practice in Kayaking Performance
Authors: Fernandes Rui António , López-Plaza Daniel , Correas-Gómez Lorena , Gomes Beatriz Branquinho , Alacid Fernando
Published: August 2021

Previous canoe sprint studies evaluated the best paddlers of their categories. This investigation aimed to identify the importance of biological maturation and athletes’ experience in kayaking performance and observe possible differences regarding anthropometry, years of practice, and performance. Eighty under 14 years of age (U14) and fifty under 16 years of age (U16) kayakers aged 13.40 ± 0.54 and 15.25 ± 0.61 years were evaluated. Kayakers were assessed for anthropometry (body mass (kg); stretch stature (cm); and sitting height (cm)), performance (time at 3000 m for U14 and 5000 m for U16 kayakers), and somatic maturation (predicted adult height (PAH) and maturity offset). In the U14 kayakers, years of practice, sitting height, and maturity offset showed significant differences (p < 0.05) between the Top10 and Middle, and Middle and Bottom10 performance times. Significantly higher (p < 0.05) sitting heights were identified between the Top10 and Middle U16 kayakers. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed for maturity offset and PAH% between the Top10 and Middle groups compared to the Bottom10 group. In conclusion, this research shows differences in the maturity status of young U14 and U16 kayakers, identifying that the more biologically mature individuals, with more years of specific practice, achieved better performances.
“We Got an Invite into the Fortress”: VA-Community Partnerships for Meeting Veterans’ Healthcare Needs
Authors: Ward Carol J. , Child Curtis , Hicken Bret L. , Stearmer S. Matthew , Cope Michael R. , Sanders Scott R. , Jackson Jorden E.
Published: August 2021

Responding to identified needs for increased veterans’ access to healthcare, in 2010 the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) launched the Veteran Community Partnership (VCP) initiative to “foster seamless access to, and transitions among, the full continuum of non-institutional extended care and support services in VA and the community”. This initiative represents an important effort by VA to promote collaboration with a broad range of community organizations as equal partners in the service of veteran needs. The purpose of the study is an initial assessment of the VCP program. Focus group interviews conducted in six sites in 2015 included 53 representatives of the local VA and community organizations involved with rural and urban VCPs across the US. Interview topics included the experiences and practices of VCP members, perceived benefits and challenges, and the characteristics and dynamics of rural and urban areas served by VCPs. Using a community-oriented conceptual framework, the analyses address VCP processes and preliminary outcomes, including VCP goals and activities, and VCP members’ perceptions of their efforts, benefits, challenges, and achievements. The results indicate largely positive perceptions of the VCP initiative and its early outcomes by both community and VA participants. Benefits and challenges vary by rural-urban community context and include resource limitations and the potential for VA dominance of other VCP partners. Although all VCPs identified significant benefits and challenges, time and resource constraints and local organizational dynamics varied by rural and urban context. Significant investments in VCPs will be required to increase their impacts.
Implementation of Kinetic and Kinematic Variables in Ergonomic Risk Assessment Using Motion Capture Simulation: A Review
Authors: Yunus Muhamad Nurul Hisyam , Jaafar Mohd Hafiidz , Mohamed Ahmad Sufril Azlan , Azraai Nur Zaidi , Hossain Md. Sohrab
Published: August 2021

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are among the most common disorders in any work sector and industry. Ergonomic risk assessment can reduce the risk of WMSDs. Motion capture that can provide accurate and real-time quantitative data has been widely used as a tool for ergonomic risk assessment. However, most ergonomic risk assessments that use motion capture still depend on the traditional ergonomic risk assessment method, focusing on qualitative data. Therefore, this article aims to provide a view on the ergonomic risk assessment and apply current motion capture technology to understand classical mechanics of physics that include velocity, acceleration, force, and momentum in ergonomic risk assessment. This review suggests that using motion capture technologies with kinetic and kinematic variables, such as velocity, acceleration, and force, can help avoid inconsistency and develop more reliable results in ergonomic risk assessment. Most studies related to the physical measurement conducted with motion capture prefer to use non-optical motion capture because it is a low-cost system and simple experimental setup. However, the present review reveals that optical motion capture can provide more accurate data.
Tolerogenic Dendritic Cell-Based Approaches in Autoimmunity
Authors: Passeri Laura , Marta Fortunato , Bassi Virginia , Gregori Silvia
Published: August 2021

Dendritic cells (DCs) dictate the outcomes of tissue-specific immune responses. In the context of autoimmune diseases, DCs instruct T cells to respond to antigens (Ags), including self-Ags, leading to organ damage, or to becoming regulatory T cells (Tregs) promoting and perpetuating immune tolerance. DCs can acquire tolerogenic properties in vitro and in vivo in response to several stimuli, a feature that opens the possibility to generate or to target DCs to restore tolerance in autoimmune settings. We present an overview of the different subsets of human DCs and of the regulatory mechanisms associated with tolerogenic (tol)DC functions. We review the role of DCs in the induction of tissue-specific autoimmunity and the current approaches exploiting tolDC-based therapies or targeting DCs in vivo for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Finally, we discuss limitations and propose future investigations for improving the knowledge on tolDCs for future clinical assessment to revert and prevent autoimmunity. The continuous expansion of tolDC research areas will lead to improving the understanding of the role that DCs play in the development and treatment of autoimmunity.
The Effect of Photoperiod on Necrosis Development, Photosynthetic Efficiency and ‘Green Islands’ Formation in Brassica juncea Infected with Alternaria brassicicola
Authors: Macioszek Violetta Katarzyna , Sobczak Mirosław , Skoczowski Andrzej , Oliwa Jakub , Michlewska Sylwia , Gapińska Magdalena , Ciereszko Iwona , Kononowicz Andrzej Kiejstut
Published: August 2021

The main goal of growing plants under various photoperiods is to optimize photosynthesis for using the effect of day length that often acts on plants in combination with biotic and/or abiotic stresses. In this study, Brassica juncea plants were grown under four different day-length regimes, namely., 8 h day/16 h night, 12 h day/12 h night, 16 h day/8 h night, and continuous light, and were infected with a necrotrophic fungus Alternaria brassicicola. The development of necroses on B. juncea leaves was strongly influenced by leaf position and day length. The largest necroses were formed on plants grown under a 16 h day/8 h night photoperiod at 72 h post-inoculation (hpi). The implemented day-length regimes had a great impact on leaf morphology in response to A. brassicicola infection. They also influenced the chlorophyll and carotenoid contents and photosynthesis efficiency. Both the 1st (the oldest) and 3rd infected leaves showed significantly higher minimal fluorescence (F0) compared to the control leaves. Significantly lower values of other investigated chlorophyll a fluorescence parameters, e.g., maximum quantum yield of photosystem II (Fv/Fm) and non-photochemical quenching (NPQ), were observed in both infected leaves compared to the control, especially at 72 hpi. The oldest infected leaf, of approximately 30% of the B. juncea plants, grown under long-day and continuous light conditions showed a ‘green island’ phenotype in the form of a green ring surrounding an area of necrosis at 48 hpi. This phenomenon was also reflected in changes in the chloroplast’s ultrastructure and accelerated senescence (yellowing) in the form of expanding chlorosis. Further research should investigate the mechanism and physiological aspects of ‘green islands’ formation in this pathosystem.
Correction: Yang et al. Chebulagic Acid, a Hydrolyzable Tannin, Exhibited Antiviral Activity in Vitro and in Vivo against Human Enterovirus 71. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2013, 14, 9618
Authors: Yang Yajun , Xiu Jinghui , Liu Jiangning , Zhang Li , Li Xiaoying , Xu Yanfeng , Qin Chuan , Zhang Lianfeng
Published: August 2021

The authors wish to make the following corrections to this paper [...]
Sustained Elevated Blood Pressure Accelerates Atherosclerosis Development in a Preclinical Model of Disease
Authors: Gonzalez-Guerra Andrés , Roche-Molina Marta , García-Quintáns Nieves , Sánchez-Ramos Cristina , Martín-Pérez Daniel , Lytvyn Mariya , de Nicolás-Hernández Javier , Rivera-Torres José , Arroyo Diego F. , Sanz-Rosa David , Bernal Juan A.
Published: August 2021

The continuous relationship between blood pressure (BP) and cardiovascular events makes the distinction between elevated BP and hypertension based on arbitrary cut-off values for BP. Even mild BP elevations manifesting as high-normal BP have been associated with cardiovascular risk. We hypothesize that persistent elevated BP increases atherosclerotic plaque development. To evaluate this causal link, we developed a new mouse model of elevated BP based on adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene transfer. We constructed AAV vectors to support transfer of the hRenin and hAngiotensinogen genes. A single injection of AAV-Ren/Ang (1011 total viral particles) induced sustained systolic BP increase (130 ± 20 mmHg, vs. 110 ± 15 mmHg in controls; p = 0.05). In ApoE−/− mice, AAV-induced mild BP elevation caused larger atherosclerotic lesions evaluated by histology (10-fold increase vs. normotensive controls). In this preclinical model, atheroma plaques development was attenuated by BP control with a calcium channel blocker, indicating that a small increase in BP within a physiological range has a substantial impact on plaque development in a preclinical model of atherosclerosis. These data support that non-optimal BP represents a risk for atherosclerosis development. Earlier intervention in elevated BP may prevent or delay morbidity and mortality associated with atherosclerosis.
Nitric Oxide-Releasing Drug Glyceryl Trinitrate Targets JAK2/STAT3 Signaling, Migration and Invasion of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Bouaouiche Sarra , Ghione Silvia , Sghaier Randa , Burgy Olivier , Racoeur Cindy , Derangère Valentin , Bettaieb Ali , Plenchette Stéphanie
Published: August 2021

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive disease with invasive and metastasizing properties associated with a poor prognosis. The STAT3 signaling pathway has shown a pivotal role in cancer cell migration, invasion, metastasis and drug resistance of TNBC cells. IL-6 is a main upstream activator of the JAK2/STAT3 pathway. In the present study we examined the impact of the NO-donor glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) on the activation of the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway and subsequent migration, invasion and metastasis ability of TNBC cells through in vitro and in vivo experiments. We used a subtoxic dose of carboplatin and/or recombinant IL-6 to activate the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway and its functional outcomes. We found an inhibitory effect of GTN on the activation of the JAK2/STAT3 signaling, migration and invasion of TNBC cells. We discovered that GTN inhibits the activation of JAK2, the upstream activator of STAT3, and mediates the S-nitrosylation of JAK2. Finally, the effect of GTN (Nitronal) on lung metastasis was investigated to assess its antitumor activity in vivo.
Rapid Transient Transcriptional Adaptation to Hypergravity in Jurkat T Cells Revealed by Comparative Analysis of Microarray and RNA-Seq Data
Authors: Vahlensieck Christian , Thiel Cora S. , Adelmann Jan , Lauber Beatrice A. , Polzer Jennifer , Ullrich Oliver
Published: August 2021

Cellular responses to micro- and hypergravity are rapid and complex and appear within the first few seconds of exposure. Transcriptomic analyses are a valuable tool to analyze these genome-wide cellular alterations. For a better understanding of the cellular dynamics upon altered gravity exposure, it is important to compare different time points. However, since most of the experiments are designed as endpoint measurements, the combination of cross-experiment meta-studies is inevitable. Microarray and RNA-Seq analyses are two of the main methods to study transcriptomics. In the field of altered gravity research, both methods are frequently used. However, the generation of these data sets is difficult and time-consuming and therefore the number of available data sets in this research field is limited. In this study, we investigated the comparability of microarray and RNA-Seq data and applied the results to a comparison of the transcriptomics dynamics between the hypergravity conditions during two real flight platforms and a centrifuge experiment to identify temporal adaptation processes. We performed a comparative study on an Affymetrix HTA2.0 microarray and a paired-end RNA-Seq data set originating from the same Jurkat T cell RNA samples from a short-term hypergravity experiment. The overall agreeability was high, with better sensitivity of the RNA-Seq analysis. The microarray data set showed weaknesses on the level of single upregulated genes, likely due to its normalization approach. On an aggregated level of biotypes, chromosomal distribution, and gene sets, both technologies performed equally well. The microarray showed better performance on the detection of altered gravity-related splicing events. We found that all initially altered transcripts fully adapted after 15 min to hypergravity and concluded that the altered gene expression response to hypergravity is transient and fully reversible. Based on the combined multiple-platform meta-analysis, we could demonstrate rapid transcriptional adaptation to hypergravity, the differential expression of the ATPase subunits ATP6V1A and ATP6V1D, and the cluster of differentiation (CD) molecules CD1E, CD2AP, CD46, CD47, CD53, CD69, CD96, CD164, and CD226 in hypergravity. We could experimentally demonstrate that it is possible to develop methodological evidence for the meta-analysis of individual data.
The Macrophage Iron Signature in Health and Disease
Authors: Mertens Christina , Marques Oriana , Horvat Natalie K. , Simonetti Manuela , Muckenthaler Martina U. , Jung Michaela
Published: August 2021

Throughout life, macrophages are located in every tissue of the body, where their main roles are to phagocytose cellular debris and recycle aging red blood cells. In the tissue niche, they promote homeostasis through trophic, regulatory, and repair functions by responding to internal and external stimuli. This in turn polarizes macrophages into a broad spectrum of functional activation states, also reflected in their iron-regulated gene profile. The fast adaptation to the environment in which they are located helps to maintain tissue homeostasis under physiological conditions.
Plant DNA Repair and Agrobacterium T−DNA Integration
Authors: Gelvin Stanton B.
Published: August 2021

Agrobacterium species transfer DNA (T−DNA) to plant cells where it may integrate into plant chromosomes. The process of integration is thought to involve invasion and ligation of T-DNA, or its copying, into nicks or breaks in the host genome. Integrated T−DNA often contains, at its junctions with plant DNA, deletions of T−DNA or plant DNA, filler DNA, and/or microhomology between T-DNA and plant DNA pre-integration sites. T−DNA integration is also often associated with major plant genome rearrangements, including inversions and translocations. These characteristics are similar to those often found after repair of DNA breaks, and thus DNA repair mechanisms have frequently been invoked to explain the mechanism of T−DNA integration. However, the involvement of specific plant DNA repair proteins and Agrobacterium proteins in integration remains controversial, with numerous contradictory results reported in the literature. In this review I discuss this literature and comment on many of these studies. I conclude that either multiple known DNA repair pathways can be used for integration, or that some yet unknown pathway must exist to facilitate T−DNA integration into the plant genome.
CD82 and Gangliosides Tune CD81 Membrane Behavior
Authors: Fernandez Laurent , Malrieu Morgane , Bénistant Christine , Dosset Patrice , Rubinstein Eric , Odintsova Elena , Berditchevski Fedor , Milhiet Pierre-Emmanuel
Published: August 2021

Tetraspanins are a family of transmembrane proteins that form a network of protein–protein interactions within the plasma membrane. Within this network, tetraspanin are thought to control the lateral segregation of their partners at the plasma membrane through mechanisms involving specific lipids. Here, we used a single molecule tracking approach to study the membrane behavior of tetraspanins in mammary epithelial cells and demonstrate that despite a common overall behavior, each tetraspanin (CD9, CD81 and CD82) has a specific signature in terms of dynamics. Furthermore, we demonstrated that tetraspanin dynamics on the cell surface are dependent on gangliosides. More specifically, we found that CD82 expression increases the dynamics of CD81 and alters its localization at the plasma membrane, this has no effect on the behavior of CD9. Our results provide new information on the ability of CD82 and gangliosides to differentially modulate the dynamics and organization of tetraspanins at the plasma membrane and highlight that its lipid and protein composition is involved in the dynamical architecture of the tetraspanin web. We predict that CD82 may act as a regulator of the lateral segregation of specific tetraspanins at the plasma membrane while gangliosides could play a crucial role in establishing tetraspanin-enriched areas.
Regulatory Role of microRNAs Targeting the Transcription Co-Factor ZNF521 in Normal Tissues and Cancers
Authors: Chiarella Emanuela , Aloisio Annamaria , Scicchitano Stefania , Bond Heather Mandy , Mesuraca Maria
Published: August 2021

Powerful bioinformatics tools have provided a wealth of novel miRNA–transcription factor networks crucial in controlling gene regulation. In this review, we focus on the biological functions of miRNAs targeting ZNF521, explaining the molecular mechanisms by which the dysregulation of this axis contributes to malignancy. ZNF521 is a stem cell-associated co-transcription factor implicated in the regulation of hematopoietic, neural, and mesenchymal stem cells. The aberrant expression of ZNF521 transcripts, frequently associated with miRNA deregulation, has been detected in several tumors including pancreatic, hepatocellular, gastric, bladder transitional cell carcinomas as well as in breast and ovarian cancers. miRNA expression profiling tools are currently identifying a multitude of miRNAs, involved together with oncogenes and TFs in the regulation of oncogenesis, including ZNF521, which may be candidates for diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers of cancer.
Architecture Insight of Bifidobacterial α-L-Fucosidases
Authors: Curiel José Antonio , Peirotén Ángela , Landete José María , Ruiz de la Bastida Ana , Langa Susana , Arqués Juan Luis
Published: August 2021

Fucosylated carbohydrates and glycoproteins from human breast milk are essential for the development of the gut microbiota in early life because they are selectively metabolized by bifidobacteria. In this regard, α-L-fucosidases play a key role in this successful bifidobacterial colonization allowing the utilization of these substrates. Although a considerable number of α-L-fucosidases from bifidobacteria have been identified by computational analysis, only a few of them have been characterized. Hitherto, α-L-fucosidases are classified into three families: GH29, GH95, and GH151, based on their catalytic structure. However, bifidobacterial α-L-fucosidases belonging to a particular family show significant differences in their sequence. Because this fact could underlie distinct phylogenetic evolution, here extensive similarity searches and comparative analyses of the bifidobacterial α-L-fucosidases identified were carried out with the assistance of previous physicochemical studies available. This work reveals four and two paralogue bifidobacterial fucosidase groups within GH29 and GH95 families, respectively. Moreover, Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis species exhibited the greatest number of phylogenetic lineages in their fucosidases clustered in every family: GH29, GH95, and GH151. Since α-L-fucosidases phylogenetically descended from other glycosyl hydrolase families, we hypothesized that they could exhibit additional glycosidase activities other than fucosidase, raising the possibility of their application to transfucosylate substrates other than lactose in order to synthesis novel prebiotics.
Co-Stimulation of Oxytocin and Arginine-Vasopressin Receptors Affect Hypothalamic Neurospheroid Size
Authors: Salehi Mohammad Saied , Neumann Inga D. , Jurek Benjamin , Pandamooz Sareh
Published: August 2021

Oxytocin (OXT) is a neuropeptide involved in a plethora of behavioral and physiological processes. However, there is a prominent lack of 3D cell culture models that investigate the effects of OXT on a cellular/molecular level. In this study, we established a hypothalamic neuronal spheroid model to investigate the cellular response in a more realistic 3D setting. Our data indicate that the formation of spheroids itself does not alter the basic characteristics of the cell line and that markers of cellular morphology and connectivity are stably expressed. We found that both OXT and arginine vasopressin (AVP) treatment increase spheroid size (surface area and volume), as well as individual nucleus size, which serves as an indicator for cellular proliferation. The cellular response to both OXT and AVP seems mainly to be mediated by the AVP receptor 1a (V1aR); however, the OXT receptor (OXTR) contributes significantly to the observed proliferative effect. When we blocked the OXTR pharmacologically or knocked down the OXTR by siRNA, the OXT- or AVP-induced cellular proliferation decreased. In summary, we established a 3D cell culture model of the neuronal response to OXT and AVP and found that spheroids react to the treatment via their respective receptors but also via cross-talk between the two receptor types.
Comparative Analysis of Single-Molecule Dynamics of TRPV1 and TRPV4 Channels in Living Cells
Authors: Kuwashima Yutaro , Yanagawa Masataka , Abe Mitsuhiro , Hiroshima Michio , Ueda Masahiro , Arita Makoto , Sako Yasushi
Published: August 2021

TRPV1 and TRPV4, members of the transient receptor potential vanilloid family, are multimodal ion channels activated by various stimuli, including temperature and chemicals. It has been demonstrated that TRPV channels function as tetramers; however, the dynamics of the diffusion, oligomerization, and endocytosis of these channels in living cells are unclear. Here we undertook single-molecule time-lapse imaging of TRPV1 and TRPV4 in HEK 293 cells. Differences were observed between TRPV1 and TRPV4 before and after agonist stimulation. In the resting state, TRPV4 was more likely to form higher-order oligomers within immobile membrane domains than TRPV1. TRPV1 became immobile after capsaicin stimulation, followed by its gradual endocytosis. In contrast, TRPV4 was rapidly internalized upon stimulation with GSK1016790A. The selective loss of immobile higher-order oligomers from the cell surface through endocytosis increased the proportion of the fast-diffusing state for both subtypes. With the increase in the fast state, the association rate constants of TRPV1 and TRPV4 increased, regenerating the higher-order oligomers. Our results provide a possible mechanism for the different rates of endocytosis of TRPV1 and TRPV4 based on the spatial organization of the higher-order structures of the two TRPV channels.
YY1 Silencing Induces 5-Fluorouracil-Resistance and BCL2L15 Downregulation in Colorectal Cancer Cells: Diagnostic and Prognostic Relevance
Authors: Vivarelli Silvia , Falzone Luca , Candido Saverio , Bonavida Benjamin , Libra Massimo
Published: August 2021

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is characterized by genetic heterogeneity and is often diagnosed at an advanced stage. Therefore, there is a need to identify novel predictive markers. Yin Yang 1 (YY1) is a transcription factor playing a dual role in cancer. The present study aimed to investigate whether YY1 expression levels influence CRC cell response to therapy and to identify the transcriptional targets involved. The diagnostic and prognostic values of YY1 and the identified factor(s) in CRC patients were also explored. Silencing of YY1 increased the resistance to 5-Fluorouracil-induced cytotoxicity in two out of four CRC cells with different genotypes. BCL2L15/Bfk pro-apoptotic factor was found selectively expressed in the responder CRC cells and downregulated upon YY1 knockdown. CRC dataset analyses corroborated a tumor-suppressive role for both YY1 and BCL2L15 whose expressions were inversely correlated with aggressiveness. CRC single-cell sequencing dataset analyses demonstrated higher co-expression levels of both YY1 and BCL2L15 within defined tumor cell clusters. Finally, elevated levels of YY1 and BCL2L15 in CRC patients were associated with larger relapse-free survival. Given their observed anti-cancer role, we propose YY1 and BCL2L15 as candidate diagnostic and prognostic CRC biomarkers.
Use Dynamic Scheduling Algorithm to Assure the Quality of Educational Programs and Secure the Integrity of Reports in a Quality Management System
Authors: Alshehri Yasser Ali , Mordhah Najwa
Published: August 2021

The implementation of quality processes is essential for an academic setting to meet the standards of different accreditation bodies. However, processes are complex because they involve several steps and several entities. Manual implementation (i.e., using paperwork), which many institutions use, has difficulty following up the progress and closing the cycle. It becomes more challenging when more processes are in place, especially when an academic department runs more than one program. Having n programs per department means that the work is replicated n times. Our proposal in this study is to use the concept of the Tomasulo algorithm to schedule all processes of an academic institution dynamically. Because of the similarities between computer tasks and the processes of workplaces, applying this method enhances work efficiencies and reduces efforts. Further, the method provides a mechanism to secure the integrity of the reports of these processes. In this paper, we provided an educational institution case study to understand the mechanism of this method and how it can be applied in an actual workplace. The case study included operational activities that are implemented to assure the program’s quality.
Lipidomic Profiling Reveals Distinct Differences in Sphingolipids Metabolic Pathway between Healthy Apis cerana cerana larvae and Chinese Sacbrood Disease
Authors: Dang Xiaoqun , Li Yan , Li Xiaoqing , Wang Chengcheng , Ma Zhengang , Wang Linling , Fan Xiaodong , Li Zhi , Huang Dunyuan , Xu Jinshan , Zhou Zeyang
Published: August 2021

Chinese sacbrood disease (CSD), which is caused by Chinese sacbrood virus (CSBV), is a major viral disease in Apis cerana cerana larvae. Analysis of lipid composition is critical to the study of CSBV replication. The host lipidome profiling during CSBV infection has not been conducted. This paper identified the lipidome of the CSBV–larvae interaction through high-resolution mass spectrometry. A total of 2164 lipids were detected and divided into 20 categories. Comparison of lipidome between healthy and CSBV infected-larvae showed that 266 lipid species were altered by CSBV infection. Furthermore, qRT-PCR showed that various sphingolipid enzymes and the contents of sphingolipids in the larvae were increased, indicating that sphingolipids may be important for CSBV infection. Importantly, Cer (d14:1 + hO/21:0 + O), DG (41:0e), PE (18:0e/18:3), SM (d20:0/19:1), SM (d37:1), TG (16:0/18:1/18:3), TG (18:1/20:4/21:0) and TG (43:7) were significantly altered in both CSBV_24 h vs. CK_24 h and CSBV_48 h vs. CK_48 h. Moreover, TG (39:6), which was increased by more than 10-fold, could be used as a biomarker for the early detection of CSD. This study provides evidence that global lipidome homeostasis in A. c. cerana larvae is remodeled after CSBV infection. Detailed studies in the future may improve the understanding of the relationship between the sphingolipid pathway and CSBV replication.
Effect of Land Surface Temperature on Urban Heat Island in Varanasi City, India
Authors: Kumar Amit , Agarwal Vivek , Pal Lalit , Chandniha Surendra Kumar , Mishra Vishal
Published: August 2021

Crucial changes in urban climate can be witnessed due to rapid urbanisation of cities across the world. It is important to find a balance between urban expansion and thermal environment quality to guarantee sustainable urban development. Thus, it is a major research priority to study the urban heat island (UHI) in various fields, i.e., climate change urban ecology, urban climatology, urban planning, mitigation and management, urban geography, etc. The present study highlighted the interrelationship between land surface temperature (LST) and the abundance of impervious cover and green cover in the Varanasi city of Uttar Pradesh, India. For this purpose, we used various GIS and remote-sensing techniques. Landsat 8 images, land-use–land-cover pattern including urban/rural gradients, and grid- and metric-based multi-resolution techniques were used for the analysis. From the study, it was noticed that LST, density of impervious cover, and density of green cover were correlated significantly, and an urban gradient existed over the entire city, depicting a typical UHI profile. It was also concluded that the orientation, randomness, and aggregation of impervious cover and green cover have a strong correlation with LST. From this study, it is recommended that, when planning urban extension, spatial variation of impervious cover and green cover are designed properly to ensure the comfort of all living beings as per the ecological point of view.
Chloramphenicol Loaded Sponges Based on PVA/Nanocellulose Nanocomposites for Topical Wound Delivery
Authors: Balla Evangelia D. , Bikiaris Nikolaos D. , Nanaki Stavroula G. , Papoulia Chrysanthi , Chrissafis Konstantinos , Klonos Panagiotis A. , Kyritsis Apostolos , Kostoglou Margaritis , Zamboulis Alexandra , Papageorgiou George Z.
Published: August 2021

In the present study, polymer sponges based on poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) were prepared for the topical wound administration of chloramphenicol (CHL), an antibiotic widely used to treat bacterial infections. Nanocellulose fibrils (CNF) were homogenously dispersed in PVA sponges in three different ratios (2.5, 5, and 10 wt %) to improve the mechanical properties of neat PVA sponges. Infrared spectroscopy showed hydrogen bond formation between CNF and PVA, while scanning electron microscopy photos verified the successful dispersion of CNF to PVA sponges. The addition of CNF successfully enhanced the mechanical properties of PVA sponges, exhibiting higher compressive strength as the content of CNF increased. The PVA sponge containing 10 wt % CNF, due to its higher compression strength, was further studied as a matrix for CHL delivery in 10, 20, and 30 wt % concentration of the drug. X-ray diffraction showed that CHL was encapsulated in an amorphous state in the 10 and 20 wt % samples, while some crystallinity was observed in the 30 wt % ratio. In vitro dissolution studies showed enhanced CHL solubility after its incorporation in PVA/10 wt % CNF sponges. Release profiles showed a controlled release lasting three days for the sample containing 10 wt % CHL and 1.5 days for the other two samples. According to modelling, the release is driven by a pseudo-Fickian diffusion.
Can Liquid Lenses Increase Depth of Field in Head Mounted Video See-Through Devices?
Authors: Carbone Marina , Domeneghetti Davide , Cutolo Fabrizio , D’Amato Renzo , Cigna Emanuele , Parchi Paolo Domenico , Gesi Marco , Morelli Luca , Ferrari Mauro , Ferrari Vincenzo
Published: August 2021

Wearable Video See-Through (VST) devices for Augmented Reality (AR) and for obtaining a Magnified View are taking hold in the medical and surgical fields. However, these devices are not yet usable in daily clinical practice, due to focusing problems and a limited depth of field. This study investigates the use of liquid-lens optics to create an autofocus system for wearable VST visors. The autofocus system is based on a Time of Flight (TOF) distance sensor and an active autofocus control system. The integrated autofocus system in the wearable VST viewers showed good potential in terms of providing rapid focus at various distances and a magnified view.
In-Line Height Measurement Technique for Directed Energy Deposition Processes
Authors: Borovkov Herman , de la Yedra Aitor Garcia , Zurutuza Xabier , Angulo Xabier , Alvarez Pedro , Pereira Juan Carlos , Cortes Fernando
Published: August 2021

Directed energy deposition (DED) is a family of additive manufacturing technologies. With these processes, metal parts are built layer by layer, introducing dynamics that propagate in time and layer-domains, which implies additional complexity and consequently, the resulting part quality is hard to predict. Control of the deposit layer thickness and height is a critical issue since it impacts on geometrical accuracy, process stability, and the overall quality of the product. Therefore, online feedback height control for DED processes with proper sensor strategies is required. This work presents a novel vision-based triangulation technique through an off-axis located CCD camera synchronized with a 640 nm wavelength pulsed illumination laser. Image processing and machine vision techniques allow in-line height measurement right after metal solidification. The linearity and the precision of the proposed setup are validated through off-and in-process trials in the laser metal deposition (LMD) process. Besides, the performance of the developed in-line inspection system has also been tested for the Arc based DED process and compared against experimental weld bead characterization data. In this last case, the system additionally allowed for the measurement of weld bead width and contact angles, which are critical in first runs of multilayer buildups.
The Prediction and Prognosis of Fungal Infection in Lung Transplant Recipients—A Retrospective Cohort Study in South Korea
Authors: Baek Yae-Jee , Cho Yun-Suk , Kim Moo-Hyun , Hyun Jong-Hoon , Sohn Yu-Jin , Kim Song-Yee , Jeong Su-Jin , Park Moo-Suk , Lee Jin-Gu , Paik Hyo-Chae
Published: August 2021

(1) Background: Lung transplant recipients (LTRs) are at substantial risk of invasive fungal disease (IFD), although no consensus has been reached on the use of antifungal agents (AFAs) after lung transplantation (LTx). This study aimed to assess the risk factors and prognosis of fungal infection after LTx in a single tertiary center in South Korea. (2) Methods: The study population included all patients who underwent LTx between January 2012 and July 2019 at a tertiary hospital. It was a retrospective cohort study. Culture, bronchoscopy, and laboratory findings were reviewed during episodes of infection. (3) Results: Fungus-positive respiratory samples were predominant in the first 90 days and the overall cumulative incidence of Candida spp. was approximately three times higher than that of Aspergillus spp. In the setting of itraconazole administration for 6 months post-LTx, C. glabrata accounted for 36.5% of all Candida-positive respiratory samples. Underlying connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung disease, use of AFAs before LTx, a longer length of hospital stay after LTx, and old age were associated with developing a fungal infection after LTx. IFD and fungal infection treatment failure significantly increased overall mortality. Host factors, antifungal drug resistance, and misdiagnosis of non-Aspergillus molds could attribute to the breakthrough fungal infections. (4) Conclusions: Careful bronchoscopy, prompt fungus culture, and appropriate use of antifungal therapies are recommended during the first year after LTx.
The Enhanced Permeability and Retention (EPR) Effect: The Significance of the Concept and Methods to Enhance Its Application
Authors: Wu Jun
Published: August 2021

Chemotherapy for human solid tumors in clinical practice is far from satisfactory. Despite the discovery and synthesis of hundreds of thousands of anticancer compounds targeting various crucial units in cancer cell proliferation and metabolism, the fundamental problem is the lack of targeting delivery of these compounds selectively into solid tumor tissue to maintain an effective concentration level for a certain length of time for drug-tumor interaction to execute anticancer activities. The enhanced permeability and retention effect (EPR effect) describes a universal pathophysiological phenomenon and mechanism in which macromolecular compounds such as albumin and other polymer-conjugated drugs beyond certain sizes (above 40 kDa) can progressively accumulate in the tumor vascularized area and thus achieve targeting delivery and retention of anticancer compounds into solid tumor tissue. Targeting therapy via the EPR effect in clinical practice is not always successful since the strength of the EPR effect varies depending on the type and location of tumors, status of blood perfusion in tumors, and the physical-chemical properties of macromolecular anticancer agents. This review highlights the significance of the concept and mechanism of the EPR effect and discusses methods for better utilizing the EPR effect in developing smarter macromolecular nanomedicine to achieve a satisfactory outcome in clinical applications.
Applying Quantile Regression to Assess the Relationship between R&D, Technology Import and Patent Performance in Taiwan
Authors: Chuang Chung-Chu , Tsai Chung-Min , Chang Hsiao-Chen , Wang Yi-Hsien
Published: August 2021

Electronics companies are facing global economic and trade competition. As patents can form an endowment shield that protects the development of corporate capabilities, companies are actively increasing their number of patents and attaching importance to technological research and development and patent management to achieve differentiated strategic effects. As such, patent layout and research and development (R&D) investment have become important strategic weapons for Taiwanese manufacturers, with which to enter the international market or compete among enterprises. This study first utilized the principal components analysis method to define patents in terms of the number of patents and the times patents are cited, with R&D defined in terms of expenditure and intensity. Furthermore, this study used a quantile regression model to visualize the relationship between R&D, technological imports, and patent performance in Taiwanese listed electronics companies. The empirical results show that technological imports in the second time-lag period require patents, while the effect on patents varies alongside industry characteristics. In addition, the empirical results found that the total assets, number of employees, and number of patent inventors are also factors that significantly affect patents. This research proposes that Taiwan’s listed electronics companies should expand their scale, increase their economic efficiency, maximize their resources, increase their patents, enhance their corporate value, boost their investor confidence, and improve their industry competitiveness.