bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phenolics of Aerial Parts of Gentiana lutea L. and Their Biological Activity
Authors: Karalija Erna , Ćavar Zeljković Sanja , Dahija Sabina , Bešta-Gajević Renata , Parić Adisa
Published: July 2021

Gentiana lutea L. is a medicinal plant the roots of which are primarily used in treatments of various human digestive disorders, but also the production of alcoholic liquors. The roots (radix) of G. lutea are described in the European Pharmacopeia, but knowledge about the chemical composition and biological activities of its aerial parts is still limited. Thus, until today aerial parts of this species have not been used in medical treatments or consumed. Therefore, flowers, leaves, and stems extracts of G. lutea obtained by using four different extraction solvents (petrol ether, chloroform, ethanol, and water) were examined for their chemical composition and biological activities. High concentrations of salicylic acid, apigenin, and naringenin were recorded for ethanol stem extracts, while significant amounts of kaempferol were detected in leaves and flowers in chloroform and water extracts, respectively. The highest antioxidant potential was recorded for flower and stem petrol ether extracts with the lowest IC50 values, ranging from 94.46 ± 9.45 to 105.38 ± 10.54 μg/mL. Ethanol extracts of flowers and stems showed moderate antioxidant activity (IC50 143.15 ± 14.32 and 146.90 ± 14.69 μg/mL) as well as strong antimicrobial activity against Candida albicans (21.00 ± 1.00 and 27.50 ± 1.78 mm inhibition zones, respectively). In addition, ethanol extracts had higher antimycotic activity compared to naturally occurring phenolic compounds that are used as positive controls. Moreover, statistical analysis of the activities of plant extracts and single compounds showed that levels of chlorogenic and caffeic acids strongly correlate with the biological activities of the extracts, i.e., they are the main carriers of these biological activities. The presented results indicate the possible use of aerial parts of G. lutea as a natural preservative, as well as a antimicrobial agent, which significantly amplifies the benefits of this medicinal crop and greatly affects the sustainability of cultivated Gentiana plantation.
VOC Characteristics and Their Source Apportionment in the Yangtze River Delta Region during the G20 Summit
Authors: Chen Cheng , Wang Lingrui , Qin Yanhong , Zhang Yunjiang , Zheng Shanshan , Yang Yifan , Jin Shiguang , Yang Xiaoxiao
Published: July 2021

To evaluate the effectiveness of measures to reduce the levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are important precursors of ground-level ozone formation, the real-time monitoring data of VOCs at the urban Zhaohui supersite (ZH), the Dianshan Lake regional supersite (DSL) and the urban Yixing station (YX) in the Yangtze River Delta region were analyzed from 23 August to 15 September 2016 during the G20 Hangzhou Summit. The average mole ratios of VOCs at the three sites were 6.56, 21.33 and 19.62 ppb, respectively, which were lower than those (13.65, 27.72 and 21.38 ppb) after deregulation. The characteristics of the VOCs varied during the different control periods. Synoptic conditions and airmass transport played an important role in the transport and accumulation of VOCs and other pollutants, which affected the control effects. Using the positive matrix factorization (PMF) method in source apportionment, five factors were identified, namely, vehicle exhaust (19.66–31.47%), plants (5.59–17.07%), industrial emissions (13.14–33.82%), fuel vaporization (12.83–26.34%) and solvent usage (17.84–28.95%) for the ZH and YX sites. Factor 4 was identified as fuel vaporization + incomplete combustion (21.69–25.35%) at the DSL site. The Non-parametric Wind Regression (NWR) method showed that regional transport was the main factor influencing the VOC distribution.
New Results on the SSIE with an Operator of the form FΔ ⊂ Ɛ + Fx′ Involving the Spaces of Strongly Summable and Convergent Sequences Using the Cesàro Method
Authors: de Malafosse Bruno
Published: July 2021

Given any sequence a=(an)n≥1 of positive real numbers and any set E of complex sequences, we can use Ea to represent the set of all sequences y=(yn)n≥1 such that y/a=(yn/an)n≥1∈E. In this paper, we use the spaces w∞, w0 and w of strongly bounded, summable to zero and summable sequences, which are the sets of all sequences y such that n−1∑k=1nykn is bounded and tends to zero, and such that y−le∈w0, for some scalarl. These sets were used in the statistical convergence. Then we deal with the solvability of each of the SSIE FΔ⊂Ɛ+Fx′, where Ɛ is a linear space of sequences, F=c0, c, ℓ∞, w0, w or w∞, and F′=c0, c or ℓ∞. For instance, the solvability of the SSIE wΔ⊂w0+sxc relies on determining the set of all sequences x=xnn≥1∈U+ that satisfy the following statement. For every sequence y that satisfies the condition limn→∞n−1∑k=1nyk−yk−1−l=0, there are two sequences u and v, with y=u+v such that limn→∞n−1∑k=1nuk=0 and limn→∞vn/xn=L for some scalars l and L.
Application of Vine-Shoot Chips during Winemaking and Aging of Malbec and Bonarda Wines
Authors: Fanzone Martín , Catania Anibal , Assof Mariela , Jofré Viviana , Prieto Jorge , Gil Quiroga Daniela , Lacognata Sottano Juan , Sari Santiago
Published: July 2021

The growing demand in recent years for sustainable wine production has led to the management of waste and by-products. Among them, vine-shoots could be used as additives comparable to the oak fragments widely employed in enology. This work analyzes the feasibility of applying vine-shoot chips during winemaking and the aging of Malbec and Bonarda wines from Mendoza (Argentina) and evaluates their chemical and sensory impact. Toasted (CHT) and untoasted (CHWT) vine-shoot chips obtained from a Bonarda vineyard were added in Malbec and Bonarda grapes during winemaking (Experiment A): C, control; CHWT, 12 g/L; CHT, 12 g/L. Furthermore, the same treatments were applied during aging (1M, 30 days; 2M, 60 days; 4M, 120 days) to the finished wines under controlled conditions (Experiment B). The impact of vine-shoot chips during winemaking was different between varieties. For Malbec alone, CHT caused a significant decrease in tannins, anthocyanins, and polymeric pigments, and a modification of wine color. During aging, CHWT and CHT had an impact mainly at the sensory level, increasing the wine’s complexity in terms of aromatic attributes and mouthfeel. In conclusion, the proposed technology could be a simple and economical tool for red wine production of high chemical and organoleptic quality.
TGF-β1 Receptor Inhibitor SB525334 Attenuates the Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition of Peritoneal Mesothelial Cells via the TGF-β1 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Heo Jung-Yoon , Do Jun-Young , Lho Yunmee , Kim A-Young , Kim Sang-Woon , Kang Seok-Hui
Published: July 2021

We investigated the effect of SB525334 (TGF-β receptor type 1 (TβRI) inhibitor) on the epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) signaling pathway in human peritoneal mesothelial cells (HPMCs) and a peritoneal fibrosis mouse model. In vitro experiments were performed using HPMCs. HPMCs were treated with TGF-β1 and/or SB525334. In vivo experiments were conducted with male C57/BL6 mice. The 0.1% chlorhexidine gluconate (CG) was intraperitoneally injected with or without SB52534 administration by oral gavage. Mice were euthanized after 28 days. EMT using TGF-β1-treated HPMCs included morphological changes, cell migration and invasion, EMT markers and collagen synthesis. These pathological changes were reversed by co-treatment with SB525334. CG injection was associated with an increase in peritoneal fibrosis and thickness, which functionally resulted in an increase in the glucose absorption via peritoneum. Co-treatment with SB525334 attenuated these changes. The levels of EMT protein markers and immunohistochemical staining for fibrosis showed similar trends. Immunofluorescence staining for EMT markers showed induction of transformed cells with both epithelial and mesenchymal cell markers, which decreased upon co-treatment with SB525334. SB525334 effectively attenuated the TGF-β1-induced EMT in HPMCs. Cotreatment with SB525334 improved peritoneal thickness and fibrosis and recovered peritoneal membrane function in a peritoneal fibrosis mouse model.
Diagnostic Challenges on the Laboratory Detection of Lupus Anticoagulant
Authors: Tripodi Armando
Published: July 2021

Lupus anticoagulant (LA) is one of the three laboratory parameters (the others being antibodies to either cardiolipin or β2-glycoprotein I) which defines the rare but potentially devastating condition known as antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). Testing for LA is a challenging task for the clinical laboratory because specific tests for its detection are not available. However, proper LA detection is paramount for patients’ management, as its persistent positivity in the presence of (previous or current) thrombotic events, candidate for long term anticoagulation. Guidelines for LA detection have been established and updated over the last two decades. Implementation of these guidelines across laboratories and participation to external quality assessment schemes are required to help standardize the diagnostic procedures and help clinicians for appropriate management of APS. This article aims to review the current state of the art and the challenges that clinical laboratories incur in the detection of LA.
Serum miRNA Profiling for Early PDAC Diagnosis and Prognosis: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Aita Ada , Millino Caterina , Sperti Cosimo , Pacchioni Beniamina , Plebani Mario , De Pittà Cristiano , Basso Daniela
Published: July 2021

Background: Tumor stage predicts pancreatic cancer (PDAC) prognosis, but prolonged and short survivals have been described in patients with early-stage tumors. Circulating microRNA (miRNA) are an emerging class of suitable biomarkers for PDAC prognosis. Our aim was to identify whether serum miRNA signatures predict survival of early-stage PDAC. Methods: Serum RNA from archival 15 stage I-III PDAC patients and 4 controls was used for miRNAs expression profile (Agilent microarrays). PDAC patients with comparable age, gender, diabetes, jaundice and surgery were classified according to survival: less than 14 months (7/15 pts, group A) and more than 22 months (8/15 pts, group B). Bioinformatic data analysis was performed by two-class Significance Analysis of Microarray (SAM) algorithm. Binary logistic regression analyses considering PDAC diagnosis and outcome as dependent variables, and ROC analyses were also performed. Results: 2549 human miRNAs were screened out. At SAM, 76 differentially expressed miRNAs were found among controls and PDAC (FDR = 0.4%), the large majority (50/76, 66%) of them being downregulated in PDAC with respect to controls. Six miRNAs were independently correlated with early PDAC, and among these, hsa-miR-6821-5p was associated with the best ROC curve area in distinguishing controls from early PDAC. Among the 71 miRNAs differentially expressed between groups A and B, the most significant were hsa-miR-3135b expressed in group A only, hsa-miR-6126 and hsa-miR-486-5p expressed in group B only. Eight miRNAs were correlated with the presence of lymph-node metastases; among these, hsa-miR-4669 is of potential interest. hsa-miR-4516, increased in PDAC and found as an independent predictor of survival, has among its putative targets a series of gens involved in key pathways of cancer progression and dissemination, such as Wnt and p53 signalling pathways. Conclusions: A series of serum miRNAs was identified as potentially useful for the early diagnosis of PDAC, and for establishing a prognosis.
Highly Magnetized Encoded Hydrogel Microparticles with Enhanced Rinsing Capabilities for Efficient microRNA Detection
Authors: Jang Wookyoung , Kim Jiwoo , Mun Seok Joon , Kim Sun Min , Bong Ki Wan
Published: July 2021

Encoded hydrogel microparticles mounting DNA probes are powerful tools for high-performance microRNA (miRNA) detection in terms of sensitivity, specificity, and multiplex detection capability. However, several particle rinsing steps in the assay procedure present challenges for rapid and efficient detection. To overcome this limitation, we encapsulated dense magnetic nanoparticles to reduce the rinsing steps and duration via magnetic separation. A large number of magnetic nanoparticles were encapsulated into hydrogel microparticles based on a discontinuous dewetting technique combined with degassed micromolding lithography. In addition, we attached DNA probes targeting three types of miRNAs related to preeclampsia to magnetically encoded hydrogel microparticles by post-synthesis conjugation and achieved sensitivity comparable to that of conventional nonmagnetic encoded hydrogel microparticles. To demonstrate the multiplex capability of magnetically encoded hydrogel microparticles while maintaining the advantages of the simplified rinsing process when addressing multiple samples, we conducted a triplex detection of preeclampsia-related miRNAs. In conclusion, the introduction of magnetically encoded hydrogel microparticles not only allowed efficient miRNA detection but also provided comparable sensitivity and multiplexed detectability to conventional nonmagnetic encoded hydrogel microparticles.
Energy Modelling of Traditional and Contemporary Mosque Buildings in Oman
Authors: Al Rasbi Haitham , Gadi Mohamed
Published: July 2021

Building energy efficiency is vital to achieve human thermal comfort with minimum energy consumption. It is a great concern in extremely hot countries such as Oman. This study aims to investigate the thermal performance of contemporary mosque buildings in comparison to traditional mosque buildings in Oman. The research methodology employs energy modelling using EDSL’s Tas Engineering computer simulation software. The analysis focused on how traditional mosque buildings compare to contemporary mosque buildings in terms of dry bulb air temperature and different thermal loads. The outcome showed the traditional mosque building design and construction are better suited for free-running buildings, while contemporary mosque building design and construction achieved less cooling load demand per area.
Pre-Therapeutic Measurements of Iodine Avidity in Papillary and Poorly Differentiated Thyroid Cancer Reveal Associations with Thyroglobulin Expression, Histological Variants and Ki-67 Index
Authors: Nilsson Joachim N. , Siikanen Jonathan , Hedman Christel , Juhlin C. Christofer , Ihre Lundgren Catharina
Published: July 2021

Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) and poorly differentiated thyroid cancer (PDTC) are treated with radioiodine to reduce recurrence and to treat the spread of disease. Adequate iodine accumulation in cancer tissue, iodine avidity, is important for treatment effect. This study investigated which clinical and histological tumour characteristics correlate with avidity. To quantify avidity in cancer tissue, tracer amounts of iodine-131 were given to 45 patients with cytologically confirmed thyroid cancer. At pathology grossing, representative samples of tumour and lymph nodes were taken and subjected to radioactivity quantification ex vivo to determine avidity. Afterwards, samples underwent extended pathology work-up and analysis. We found that tumoural Tg expression and Ki-67 index were correlated with avidity, whereas tumour size and pT stage were not. The histological variant of thyroid cancer was also correlated with iodine avidity. Variants associated with worse clinical prognoses displayed lower avidity than variants with better prognoses. This work provides new information on which tumours have low iodine avidity. Lower avidity in aggressive histological PTC variants may explain their overall poorer prognoses. Our findings also suggest that radioiodine dosage could be adapted to Tg expression, Ki-67 index or histological variant instead of pT stage, potentially improving the efficacy of radioiodine therapy.
Comparing Tumor Cell Invasion and Myeloid Cell Composition in Compatible Primary and Relapsing Glioblastoma
Authors: Zhao Dongxu , Zhang Huabin , Uyar Ramazan , Hossain Jubayer A. , Miletic Hrvoje , Tonn Jörg-Christian , Glass Rainer , Kälin Roland E.
Published: July 2021

Glioblastoma (GBM) recurrence after treatment is almost inevitable but addressing this issue with adequate preclinical models has remained challenging. Here, we introduce a GBM mouse model allowing non-invasive and scalable de-bulking of a tumor mass located deeply in the brain, which can be combined with conventional therapeutic approaches. Strong reduction of the GBM volume is achieved after pharmacologically inducing a tumor-specific cell death mechanism. This is followed by GBM re-growth over a predictable timeframe. Pharmacological de-bulking followed by tumor relapse was accomplished with an orthotopic mouse glioma model. Relapsing experimental tumors recapitulated pathological features often observed in recurrent human GBM, like increased invasiveness or altered immune cell composition. Orthotopic implantation of GBM cells originating from biopsies of one patient at initial or follow-up treatment reproduced these findings. Interestingly, relapsing GBM of both models contained a much higher ratio of monocyte-derived macrophages (MDM) versus microglia than primary GBM. This was not altered when combining pharmacological de-bulking with invasive surgery. We interpret that factors released from viable primary GBM cells preferentially attract microglia whereas relapsing tumors preponderantly release chemoattractants for MDM. All in all, this relapse model has the capacity to provide novel insights into clinically highly relevant aspects of GBM treatment.
Plasma Metabolome Profiling Identifies Metabolic Subtypes of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Mahajan Ujjwal Mukund , Alnatsha Ahmed , Li Qi , Oehrle Bettina , Weiss Frank-Ulrich , Sendler Matthias , Distler Marius , Uhl Waldemar , Fahlbusch Tim , Goni Elisabetta , Beyer Georg , Chromik Ansgar , Bahra Markus , Klein Fritz , Pilarsky Christian , Grützmann Robert , Lerch Markus M. , Lauber Kirsten , Christiansen Nicole , Kamlage Beate , Regel Ivonne , Mayerle Julia
Published: July 2021

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the deadliest cancers. Developing biomarkers for early detection and chemotherapeutic response prediction is crucial to improve the dismal prognosis of PDAC patients. However, molecular cancer signatures based on transcriptome analysis do not reflect intratumoral heterogeneity. To explore a more accurate stratification of PDAC phenotypes in an easily accessible matrix, plasma metabolome analysis using MxP® Global Profiling and MxP® Lipidomics was performed in 361 PDAC patients. We identified three metabolic PDAC subtypes associated with distinct complex lipid patterns. Subtype 1 was associated with reduced ceramide levels and a strong enrichment of triacylglycerols. Subtype 2 demonstrated increased abundance of ceramides, sphingomyelin and other complex sphingolipids, whereas subtype 3 showed decreased levels of sphingolipid metabolites in plasma. Pathway enrichment analysis revealed that sphingolipid-related pathways differ most among subtypes. Weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) implied PDAC subtypes differed in their metabolic programs. Interestingly, a reduced expression among related pathway genes in tumor tissue was associated with the lowest survival rate. However, our metabolic PDAC subtypes did not show any correlation to the described molecular PDAC subtypes. Our findings pave the way for further studies investigating sphingolipids metabolisms in PDAC.
Cytokine-Mediated Regulation of ARG1 in Macrophages and Its Impact on the Control of Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhimurium Infection
Authors: Brigo Natascha , Pfeifhofer-Obermair Christa , Tymoszuk Piotr , Demetz Egon , Engl Sabine , Barros-Pinkelnig Marina , Dichtl Stefanie , Fischer Christine , Valente De Souza Lara , Petzer Verena , von Raffay Laura , Hilbe Richard , Berger Sylvia , Seifert Markus , Schleicher Ulrike , Bogdan Christian , Weiss Günter
Published: July 2021

Arginase 1 (ARG1) is a cytosolic enzyme that cleaves L-arginine, the substrate of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and thereby impairs the control of various intracellular pathogens. Herein, we investigated the role of ARG1 during infection with Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (S.tm). To study the impact of ARG1 on Salmonella infections in vitro, bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDM) from C57BL/6N wild-type, ARG1-deficient Tie2Cre+/−ARG1fl/fl and NRAMPG169 C57BL/6N mice were infected with S.tm. In wild-type BMDM, ARG1 was induced by S.tm and further upregulated by the addition of interleukin (IL)-4, whereas interferon-γ had an inhibitory effect. Deletion of ARG1 did not result in a reduction in bacterial numbers. In vivo, Arg1 mRNA was upregulated in the spleen, but not in the liver of C57BL/6N mice following intraperitoneal S.tm infection. The genetic deletion of ARG1 (Tie2Cre+/−ARG1fl/fl) or its pharmacological inhibition with CB-1158 neither affected the numbers of S.tm in spleen, liver and blood nor the expression of host response genes such as iNOS, IL-6 or tumour necrosis factor (TNF). Furthermore, ARG1 was dispensable for pathogen control irrespective of the presence or absence of the phagolysosomal natural resistance-associated macrophage protein 1 (NRAMP1). Thus, unlike the detrimental function of ARG1 seen during infections with other intraphagosomal microorganisms, ARG1 did not support bacterial survival in systemic salmonellosis, indicating differential roles of arginine metabolism for host immune response and microbe persistence depending on the type of pathogen.
Fibrosis, the Bad Actor in Cardiorenal Syndromes: Mechanisms Involved
Authors: Delgado-Valero Beatriz , Cachofeiro Victoria , Martínez-Martínez Ernesto
Published: July 2021

Cardiorenal syndrome is a term that defines the complex bidirectional nature of the interaction between cardiac and renal disease. It is well established that patients with kidney disease have higher incidence of cardiovascular comorbidities and that renal dysfunction is a significant threat to the prognosis of patients with cardiac disease. Fibrosis is a common characteristic of organ injury progression that has been proposed not only as a marker but also as an important driver of the pathophysiology of cardiorenal syndromes. Due to the relevance of fibrosis, its study might give insight into the mechanisms and targets that could potentially be modulated to prevent fibrosis development. The aim of this review was to summarize some of the pathophysiological pathways involved in the fibrotic damage seen in cardiorenal syndromes, such as inflammation, oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum stress, which are known to be triggers and mediators of fibrosis.
Association between Markers of Synovial Inflammation, Matrix Turnover and Symptoms in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Yang Xiaotian , Thudium Christian S. , Bay-Jensen Anne-Christine , Karsdal Morten A. , van Santen James , Arden Nigel K. , Perry Thomas A. , Kluzek Stefan
Published: July 2021

To investigate the association between markers of synovial inflammation and matrix turnover (MRI-based and serum biomarkers) and knee symptoms in established knee osteoarthritis (KOA). This cross-sectional study utilised data from a randomised, multicentre placebo-controlled trial (UK-VIDEO) of vitamin D therapy in symptomatic KOA. Data on serum biomarkers, type III collagen degradation (C3M), metabolite of C-reactive protein (CRPM) and cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP), were available at baseline whilst contrast-enhanced (CE) MRI data were acquired in a subsample at baseline and annually. Knee symptoms were assessed using WOMAC at all visits. We examined the cross-sectional association between knee symptoms and three MRI-based and three serum markers of synovitis and matrix turnover, respectively. A total of 447 participants were included in the serum and 136 participants in the MRI analyses. MRI-defined medial perimeniscal synovitis was positively associated with knee pain and, suprapatellar and medial perimeniscal synovitis with knee function in multivariate analysis. We observed a statistically significant, negative association between a higher concentration of serum C3M and CRPM and knee pain, respectively. Furthermore, the highest CRPM quartile was negatively associated with knee function. Our findings suggest that, in established painful radiographic KOA, MRI-defined medial perimeniscal and suprapatellar synovitis were positively associated with knee symptoms. Serum-based C3M and CRPM markers were negatively associated with knee symptoms. Pain fluctuations are common in KOA and a better understanding of the relationship between markers of synovitis and matrix turnover and knee symptoms would facilitate a more accurate assessment of temporal changes in disease progression.
Mitotherapy: Unraveling a Promising Treatment for Disorders of the Central Nervous System and Other Systemic Conditions
Authors: Nascimento-dos-Santos Gabriel , de-Souza-Ferreira Eduardo , Linden Rafael , Galina Antonio , Petrs-Silva Hilda
Published: July 2021

Mitochondria are key players of aerobic respiration and the production of adenosine triphosphate and constitute the energetic core of eukaryotic cells. Furthermore, cells rely upon mitochondria homeostasis, the disruption of which is reported in pathological processes such as liver hepatotoxicity, cancer, muscular dystrophy, chronic inflammation, as well as in neurological conditions including Alzheimer’s disease, schizophrenia, depression, ischemia and glaucoma. In addition to the well-known spontaneous cell-to-cell transfer of mitochondria, a therapeutic potential of the transplant of isolated, metabolically active mitochondria has been demonstrated in several in vitro and in vivo experimental models of disease. This review explores the striking outcomes achieved by mitotherapy thus far, and the most relevant underlying data regarding isolated mitochondria transplantation, including mechanisms of mitochondria intake, the balance between administration and therapy effectiveness, the relevance of mitochondrial source and purity and the mechanisms by which mitotherapy is gaining ground as a promising therapeutic approach.
The Phosphatidylserine Receptor TIM-1 Enhances Authentic Chikungunya Virus Cell Entry
Authors: Kirui Jared , Abidine Yara , Lenman Annasara , Islam Koushikul , Gwon Yong-Dae , Lasswitz Lisa , Evander Magnus , Bally Marta , Gerold Gisa
Published: July 2021

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a re-emerging, mosquito-transmitted, enveloped positive stranded RNA virus. Chikungunya fever is characterized by acute and chronic debilitating arthritis. Although multiple host factors have been shown to enhance CHIKV infection, the molecular mechanisms of cell entry and entry factors remain poorly understood. The phosphatidylserine-dependent receptors, T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain 1 (TIM-1) and Axl receptor tyrosine kinase (Axl), are transmembrane proteins that can serve as entry factors for enveloped viruses. Previous studies used pseudoviruses to delineate the role of TIM-1 and Axl in CHIKV entry. Conversely, here, we use the authentic CHIKV and cells ectopically expressing TIM-1 or Axl and demonstrate a role for TIM-1 in CHIKV infection. To further characterize TIM-1-dependent CHIKV infection, we generated cells expressing domain mutants of TIM-1. We show that point mutations in the phosphatidylserine binding site of TIM-1 lead to reduced cell binding, entry, and infection of CHIKV. Ectopic expression of TIM-1 renders immortalized keratinocytes permissive to CHIKV, whereas silencing of endogenously expressed TIM-1 in human hepatoma cells reduces CHIKV infection. Altogether, our findings indicate that, unlike Axl, TIM-1 readily promotes the productive entry of authentic CHIKV into target cells.
The FibromiR miR-214-3p Is Upregulated in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and Promotes Differentiation of Human Fibro-Adipogenic Muscle Progenitors
Authors: Arrighi Nicole , Moratal Claudine , Savary Grégoire , Fassy Julien , Nottet Nicolas , Pons Nicolas , Clément Noémie , Fellah Sandy , Larrue Romain , Magnone Virginie , Lebrigand Kevin , Pottier Nicolas , Dechesne Claude , Vassaux Georges , Dani Christian , Peraldi Pascal , Mari Bernard
Published: July 2021

Fibrosis is a deleterious invasion of tissues associated with many pathological conditions, such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) for which no cure is at present available for its prevention or its treatment. Fibro-adipogenic progenitors (FAPs) are resident cells in the human skeletal muscle and can differentiate into myofibroblasts, which represent the key cell population responsible for fibrosis. In this study, we delineated the pool of microRNAs (miRNAs) that are specifically modulated by TGFβ1 in FAPs versus myogenic progenitors (MPs) by a global miRNome analysis. A subset of candidates, including several “FibromiRs”, was found differentially expressed between FAPs and MPs and was also deregulated in DMD versus healthy biopsies. Among them, the expression of the TGFβ1-induced miR-199a~214 cluster was strongly correlated with the fibrotic score in DMD biopsies. Loss-of-function experiments in FAPs indicated that a miR-214-3p inhibitor efficiently blocked expression of fibrogenic markers in both basal conditions and following TGFβ1 stimulation. We found that FGFR1 is a functional target of miR-214-3p, preventing the signaling of the anti-fibrotic FGF2 pathway during FAP fibrogenesis. Overall, our work demonstrates that the « FibromiR » miR-214-3p is a key activator of FAP fibrogenesis by modulating the FGF2/FGFR1/TGFβ axis, opening new avenues for the treatment of DMD.
Skin under Strain: From Epithelial Model Tissues to Adult Epithelia
Authors: Püllen Robin , Konrad Jens , Merkel Rudolf , Hoffmann Bernd
Published: July 2021

Formation of a barrier capable of protecting tissue from external damage, chemical factors, and pathogens is one of the main functions of the epidermis. Furthermore, upon development and during aging, mechanoprotective epidermal functions change dramatically. However, comparative studies between embryonic and adult skin in comparison to skin equivalents are still scarce which is especially due to the lack of appropriate measurement systems with sufficient accuracy and long-term tissue compatibility. Our studies fill this gap by developing a combined bioreactor and tensile testing machine for biomechanical analysis of living epithelia. Based on this tissue stretcher, our data clearly show that viscoelastic and plastic deformation behavior of embryonic and adult skin differ significantly. Tissue responses to static strain compared to cyclic strain also show a clear dependence on differentiation stage. Multilayered unkeratinized epidermis equivalents, on the other hand, respond very similar to mechanical stretch as adult tissue. This mechanical similarity is even more evident after a single cycle of mechanical preconditioning. Our studies therefore suggest that skin equivalents are well suited model systems to analyze cellular interactions of epidermal cells in natural tissues.
Cortactin Contributes to Activity-Dependent Modulation of Spine Actin Dynamics and Spatial Memory Formation
Authors: Cornelius Jonas , Rottner Klemens , Korte Martin , Michaelsen-Preusse Kristin
Published: July 2021

Postsynaptic structures on excitatory neurons, dendritic spines, are actin-rich. It is well known that actin-binding proteins regulate actin dynamics and by this means orchestrate structural plasticity during the development of the brain, as well as synaptic plasticity mediating learning and memory processes. The actin-binding protein cortactin is localized to pre- and postsynaptic structures and translocates in a stimulus-dependent manner between spines and the dendritic compartment, thereby indicating a crucial role for synaptic plasticity and neuronal function. While it is known that cortactin directly binds F-actin, the Arp2/3 complex important for actin nucleation and branching as well as other factors involved in synaptic plasticity processes, its precise role in modulating actin remodeling in neurons needs to be deciphered. In this study, we characterized the general neuronal function of cortactin in knockout mice. Interestingly, we found that the loss of cortactin leads to deficits in hippocampus-dependent spatial memory formation. This impairment is correlated with a prominent dysregulation of functional and structural plasticity. Additional evidence shows impaired long-term potentiation in cortactin knockout mice together with a complete absence of structural spine plasticity. These phenotypes might at least in part be explained by alterations in the activity-dependent modulation of synaptic actin in cortactin-deficient neurons.
Preparation of Aligned Steel-Fiber-Reinforced Concrete Using a Magnetic Field Created by the Assembly of Magnetic Pieces
Authors: Mu Ru , Dong Ruixin , Liu Haoqi , Chen Haoyu , Cheng Qingao , Fan Chunhao
Published: July 2021

In steel-fiber-reinforced composites, when the direction of a steel fiber is parallel to the direction of tensile stress, the capacity of the strengthening and toughening effect of the steel fiber can be fully applied to the composites. In this paper, a method to control the direction of steel fibers from one side surface of the mold full of a fresh mixture of steel-fiber-reinforced concrete using a magnet composed of small magnet squares is proposed, which has the advantage that the approach is suitable for specimens or elements with any size or shape. The influence of the method on the orientation effect of steel fiber is explored, and the flexural properties of the specimens prepared by different orientation methods are compared and analyzed through a three-point bending test. The test results show that the steel fibers in the mixture are successfully aligned by the magnetic treatment and the fiber orientation effective coefficient reaches 0.9 or more. The flexural properties of the aligned steel-fiber-reinforced cementitious composite (ASFRC) prepared by the magnetic device is significantly improved. The test results also show that the properties of the ASFRC prepared by the new method are comparable with that prepared by the previous electromagnetic field in terms of the fiber orientation effective coefficient and flexural strength.
Ti:Sa Crystals in Ultra-High Peak and Average Power Laser Systems
Authors: Chvykov Vladimir
Published: July 2021

In this paper, Ti:Sa amplifiers with crystals of the different geometries are discussed. Benefits of using this active medium for a thin disk (TD) and slab amplifiers are evaluated numerically and tested experimentally. Thermal management for amplifiers with multi-kW average power and multi-J pulse energy has been demonstrated. The presented numerical simulations revealed the existing limitations for heat extraction in TD geometry in the sub-joule energy regime for higher repetition rate operation. Geometry conversion from TD to thin-slab (TS) and cross-thin-slab (XTS) configurations significantly increases the cooling efficiency with an acceptable crystal temperature for pump average power values up to few kW with room temperature cooling, and up to tens of kW with cryogenic cooling. The abilities to attain 0.3 J output energy and a greater than 50% extraction efficiency were demonstrated with a repetition rate exceeding 10 kHz with room temperature cooling and one order more of a repetition rate with cryogenic conditions with pulsed pumping. Direct diode pumping simulated for CW regimes demonstrated 1.4 kW output power with 34% extraction efficiency using room temperature cooling and more than 10 kW and ~40% efficiency with cryogenic cooling.
Cross-Modality Person Re-Identification Based on Heterogeneous Center Loss and Non-Local Features
Authors: Han Chengmei , Pan Peng , Zheng Aihua , Tang Jin
Published: July 2021

Cross-modality person re-identification is the study of images of people matching under different modalities (RGB modality, IR modality). Given one RGB image of a pedestrian collected under visible light in the daytime, cross-modality person re-identification aims to determine whether the same pedestrian appears in infrared images (IR images) collected by infrared cameras at night, and vice versa. Cross-modality person re-identification can solve the task of pedestrian recognition in low light or at night. This paper aims to improve the degree of similarity for the same pedestrian in two modalities by improving the feature expression ability of the network and designing appropriate loss functions. To implement our approach, we introduce a deep neural network structure combining heterogeneous center loss (HC loss) and a non-local mechanism. On the one hand, this can heighten the performance of feature representation of the feature learning module, and, on the other hand, it can improve the similarity of cross-modality within the class. Experimental data show that the network achieves excellent performance on SYSU-MM01 datasets.
A Network Approach to the Study of the Dynamics of Risk Spillover in China’s Bond Market
Authors: Liao Zhewen , Zhang Hongli , Guo Kun , Wu Ning
Published: July 2021

Since 2018, the bond market has surpassed the stock market, becoming the biggest investment area in China’s security market, and the systemic risks of China’s bond market are of non-negligible importance. Based on daily interest rate data of representative bond categories, this study conducted a dynamic analysis based on generalized vector autoregressive volatility spillover variance decomposition, constructed a complex network, and adopted the minimum spanning tree method to clarify and analyze the risk propagation path between different bond types. It is found that the importance of each bond type is positively correlated with liquidity, transaction volume, and credit rating, and the inter-bank market is the most important market in the entire bond market, while interest rate bonds, bank bonds and urban investment bonds are important varieties with great systemic importance. In addition, the long-term trend of the dynamic spillover index of China’s bond market falls in line with the pace of the interest rate adjustments. To hold the bottom line of preventing financial systemic risks of China’s bond market, standard management, strict supervision, and timely regulation of the bond markets are required, and the structural entropy, as a useful indicator, also should be used in the risk management and monitoring.
Stabilization and Synchronization of a Complex Hidden Attractor Chaotic System by Backstepping Technique
Authors: Munoz-Pacheco Jesus M. , Volos Christos , Serrano Fernando E. , Jafari Sajad , Kengne Jacques , Rajagopal Karthikeyan
Published: July 2021

In this paper, the stabilization and synchronization of a complex hidden chaotic attractor is shown. This article begins with the dynamic analysis of a complex Lorenz chaotic system considering the vector field properties of the analyzed system in the Cn domain. Then, considering first the original domain of attraction of the complex Lorenz chaotic system in the equilibrium point, by using the required set topology of this domain of attraction, one hidden chaotic attractor is found by finding the intersection of two sets in which two of the parameters, r and b, can be varied in order to find hidden chaotic attractors. Then, a backstepping controller is derived by selecting extra state variables and establishing the required Lyapunov functionals in a recursive methodology. For the control synchronization law, a similar procedure is implemented, but this time, taking into consideration the error variable which comprise the difference of the response system and drive system, to synchronize the response system with the original drive system which is the original complex Lorenz system.
Redundant Information Neural Estimation
Authors: Kleinman Michael , Achille Alessandro , Soatto Stefano , Kao Jonathan C.
Published: July 2021

We introduce the Redundant Information Neural Estimator (RINE), a method that allows efficient estimation for the component of information about a target variable that is common to a set of sources, known as the “redundant information”. We show that existing definitions of the redundant information can be recast in terms of an optimization over a family of functions. In contrast to previous information decompositions, which can only be evaluated for discrete variables over small alphabets, we show that optimizing over functions enables the approximation of the redundant information for high-dimensional and continuous predictors. We demonstrate this on high-dimensional image classification and motor-neuroscience tasks.
Numerical Analysis of Concentrated Solar Heaters for Segmented Heat Accumulators
Authors: Beer Martin , Rybár Radim , Rybárová Jana , Seňová Andrea , Ferencz Vojtech
Published: July 2021

This presented paper focuses on the design and evaluation of the concept of concentrated solar heaters for segmental heat accumulators, which are designed to cover the energy needs of selected communities in terms of food preparation without the need for fossil fuels, which have a negative impact not only on the climate but especially on health. The proposed device is based on the traditional method of food preparation in the so-called earth oven; however, the fire-heated stones are replaced with heat accumulators heated by solar radiation. This approach eliminates the need to change common and long-term habits of food preparation for selected communities. The device connects solar vacuum heat pipes, a solar radiation concentrator, and heat accumulators. The concept was evaluated based on computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis with the use of a transient simulation of selected operating situations in three geographical locations. The results showed a significant temperature increase of the heat accumulators, where in the most effective case the temperature increased up to 227.23 °C. The concept was also evaluated based on a calorimetric analysis of the system consisting of heat accumulators and food. The resulting temperature in the considered case reached the pasteurization temperature necessary for safe and healthy food preparation.
Generalized Normal Distribution Algorithm-Based Control of 3-Phase 4-Wire Grid-Tied PV-Hybrid Energy Storage System
Authors: Chankaya Mukul , Hussain Ikhlaq , Ahmad Aijaz , Malik Hasmat , García Márquez Fausto Pedro
Published: July 2021

The presented work employs the multiple random feature kernel mean p-power algorithm (MRFKMP) for the voltage source converter (VSC) control of a three-phase four-wire grid-tied dual-stage photovoltaic-hybrid energy storage system (HESS) to achieve multiple objectives during various induced dynamic conditions. The proposed control enables the VSC to accomplish manifold goals, i.e., reactive power compensation, power quality enhancement, load, power balancing at common coupling point and grid voltage balancing during unity power factor mode of operation. The proposed system is scrutinized under steady-state and numerous dynamic states such as irradiation variation, specified power mode, abnormal grid voltage, load, and grid voltage unbalancing. The seamless control facilitates the swift resynchronization of the grid as well as maintaining stability during islanding and re-synchronization operations while satisfying the necessary load requirements. The associated HESS consisting of battery and ultra-capacitor is competent enough in managing the interruptions occurring on the grid, load and photovoltaic side. The DC bus voltage is controlled by the PI controller, which is tuned by the generalized normal distribution algorithm and kept at the desired level during diverse operating conditions. The optimized DC bus generates an accurate loss component of current and further enhances the VSC performance. The proposed system is investigated by simulation and found acceptable as per IEEE 519 standards.
Enhanced Component Analytical Solution for Performance Adaptation and Diagnostics of Gas Turbines
Authors: Yan Binbin , Hu Minghui , Feng Kun , Jiang Zhinong
Published: July 2021

Accurate component analytical solution is very important to gas path prognostics and diagnostics of a gas turbine. However, due to the highly complex nonlinear behavior of component performance, the nonlinear relationships between various key parameters still should be further studied. For this purpose, a new component analytical solution is proposed to enhance the current adaptation and diagnostics scheme of gas turbines. First, the tuning factors are defined to construct the enhanced component analytical solution and identify the nonlinear behaviors more accurately. Second, a sensitivity analysis for tuning factors is performed to understand the effect of each factor on the shape of component maps. Then, a particle swarm optimization algorithm is used to capture the optimal tuning factors, and then the performance adaptation is implemented. Finally, the proposed method has been validated with normal field data and fouling fault field data of a PGT25+ gas turbine. Compared with two earlier off-design point adaptation methods, the proposed method shows some advantages in performance adaptation and diagnostics.
Improvement of Stand-Alone Solar PV Systems in the Maputo Region by Adapting Necessary Parameters
Authors: Roque Paxis Marques João , Chowdhury Shyama P. D. , Huan Zhongjie
Published: July 2021

With the energy crisis and the constant blackout in the Mozambique Power Company grid, the option of applying solar photovoltaic (PV) systems has been one of the most used alternatives in the neighborhoods of the Maputo region. However, inefficient power delivery caused by unproper sizing and installation of stand-alone solar PV systems has been contributing to the low utilization of solar energy potential in the Maputo region. The optimal sizing and installation of the solar PV system is addressed to evaluate the influence of installation and operation parameters on the power output of PV modules. In this topic, PV modules parameters such as cell temperature, the module’s slope and azimuth angles, the losses caused by excessive heating of the module cells, shadows and dust on the PV module and the cooling process at the back of the module are assessed in order to find out the consequence of inadequate installation and operation parameters of solar PV systems in the Maputo region. The proper sizing and installation of the stand-alone solar PV system is fundamental to guarantee the continuous and efficient supply of power and, thus, different tools and techniques have been applied. This study will deal with the hybrid optimization of multiple energy resources (HOMER) and system advisor model (SAM), to size and improve power generation of solar PV systems. This study concluded that for the Maputo region, the optimal tilt angle is 23 ± 2° and the azimuth angle is 11 ± 2°. In addition, for optimization of the tilt and azimuth angles, it also examined the effect of module backside ventilation and proved that the system’s power generation increases with the rise of spacing between the module and the wall, since the strategy prevents the decline of the module cells efficiency. However, the maximum recommended spacing between the PV module and the mounting wall is about 0.4 m, since an effort to increase the spacing up to this level results in an insignificant growth of power output.