bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comprehensive Biology and Genetics Compendium of Wilms Tumor Cell Lines with Different WT1 Mutations
Authors: Royer-Pokora Brigitte , Busch Maike Anna , Tenbusch Sarah , Schmidt Mathias , Beier Manfred , Woods Andrew D. , Thiele Holger , Mora Jaume
Published: December 2020

Purpose: WT1 mutant Wilms tumors represent a distinct subgroup, frequently associated with CTNNB1 mutations. The genetic basis for the development of this subtype is currently not fully understood. Methods: Live WT1 mutant Wilms tumors were collected during surgery of patients and cell cultures established in mesenchymal stem cell medium. They were studied for mutations in WT1 and CTNNB1, their differentiation capacity and protein activation status. Four cell lines were immortalized with a triple mutant ts SV40 largeT antigen and Telomerase. Results: 11 cell lines were established from Wilms tumors of nine patients, including a left and right tumor from the same patient and a primary and second tumor from another patient. Six patients had germ line and three were tumor specific mutations. All cell lines harbored only mutant or deleted WT1 genes. CTNNB1 was wild type in three, all others carried mutations affecting amino acid S45. They had variable and limited capacities for mesenchymal differentiation, a high migratory capacity and a low invasive potential. All cells showed an activation of multiple receptor tyrosine kinases and downstream signaling pathways. Conclusions: These cell lines represent an important new tool to study WT1 mutant Wilms tumors, potentially leading to new treatment approaches.
The Expression Profile and Textural Characteristics of C595-Reactive MUC1 in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma for Targeted Radionuclide Therapy
Authors: Hull Ashleigh , Li Yanrui , Bartholomeusz Dylan , Hsieh William , Escarbe Samantha , Ruszkiewicz Andrew , Bezak Eva
Published: December 2020

Improvements in the prognosis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) rely on the development of effective treatments to target advanced disease. Mucin 1 (MUC1) is a transmembrane glycoprotein which is involved in the metastatic progression of PDAC and is a receptor-of-interest for targeted radionuclide therapy. The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility of MUC1-based targeted radionuclide therapy for PDAC, by evaluating the expression profile of MUC1 in different pancreatic cells and tissues using the C595 antibody. MUC1 expression was evaluated in four PDAC cell lines (PANC-1, BxPC-3, CAPAN-1 and AsPC-1) using flow cytometry and immunocytochemistry. Immunohistochemistry was performed on primary and metastatic PDAC, pancreatitis, pancreatic intra-epithelial neoplasia and normal pancreatic tissue samples to identify potential changes in C595-reactive MUC1 expression across different disease groups. C595-reactive MUC1 expression was found to varying degrees in the cell lines (11.5–93.1%). A pixel analysis of the immunohistochemical staining demonstrated highest MUC1 expression in primary PDAC tissue (mean pixel value of 205.4), followed by other pancreatic cancer types (204.9), pancreatic intra-epithelial neoplasia (203.8), metastatic PDAC (201.5), chronic pancreatitis (198.1) and normal pancreatic tissue (191.4). The increased expression in malignant tissues and reduced expression in benign tissues indicate that C595-reactive MUC1 is a potential target for targeted radionuclide therapy of PDAC.
miRNA Expression Signatures of Therapy Response in Squamous Cell Carcinomas
Authors: Fekete János Tibor , Welker Ágnes , Győrffy Balázs
Published: December 2020

Introduction: Squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) are a major subgroup of malignant tumors with a platinum-based first-line systematic chemotherapy. miRNAs play a role in various diseases and modulate therapy response as well. The aim of this study was to identify predictive miRNAs in platinum-treated SCCs. Methods: miRNA expression data of platinum-treated head and neck (HNSC), cervical (CESC) and lung (LUSC) cancer were collected from the TCGA repositories. Treatment response was defined based on presence or absence of disease progression at 18 months. Responder and nonresponder cohorts were compared using Mann–Whitney and Receiver Operating Characteristic tests. Logistic regression was developed to establish a predictive miRNA signature. Significance was set at FDR < 5%. Results: The integrated database includes 266 SCC patient samples with platinum-based therapy and available follow-up. We uncovered 16, 103, and 9 miRNAs correlated to chemotherapy response in the CESC, HNSC, and LUSC cohorts, respectively. Eight miRNAs overlapped between the CESC and HNSC subgroups, and three miRNAs overlapped between the LUSC and HNSC subgroups. We established a logistic regression model in HNSC and CESC which included six miRNAs: hsa-miR-5586 (Exp (B): 2.94, p = 0.001), hsa-miR-632 (Exp (B): 10.75, p = 0.002), hsa-miR-2355 (Exp (B): 0.48, p = 0.004), hsa-miR-642a (Exp (B): 2.22, p = 0.01), hsa-miR-101-2 (Exp (B): 0.39, p = 0.013) and hsa-miR-6728 (Exp (B): 0.21, p = 0.016). The model using these miRNAs was able to predict chemotherapy resistance with an AUC of 0.897. Conclusions: We performed an analysis of RNA-seq data of squamous cell carcinomas samples and identified significant miRNAs correlated to the response against platinum-based therapy in cervical, head and neck, and lung tumors.
The Research on the Construction and the Photocatalytic Performance of BiOI/NH2-MIL-125(Ti) Composite
Authors: Du Juan , Zhang Jiaxin , Yang Tingyu , Liu Renming , Li Zhiyi , Wang Dandan , Zhou Tong , Liu Yucun , Liu Chunbo , Che Guangbo
Published: December 2020

The BiOI/NH2-MIL-125(Ti) composite photocatalyst with excellent photocatalytic performance was prepared by the solvothermal method. For the BiOI/NH2-MIL-125(Ti) (BNMT) system, the contents of NH2-MIL-125(Ti) in BNMT-4, BNMT-5, BNMT-7, BNMT-9, and BNMT-10 were 4 wt %, 5 wt %, 7 wt %, 9 wt %, and 10 wt %, respectively. XRD, XPS, SEM, and TEM characterizations indicated that BiOI/NH2-MIL-125(Ti) was successfully prepared. Brunauer, Emmett, and Teller (BET) and UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectra photoelectrochemical analysis indicated that BNMT-9 can make the specific surface area and photo absorption region larger than BiOI. In addition, the separation efficiency of photogenerated carriers was improved, and the recombination efficiency was reduced. The degradation percentages of Rhodamine B (RhB) and p-chlorophenol (P-CP) reached 99% and 90% over BNMT-9 under visible light irradiation. Additionally, the catalysts had high stability. The results of the active spices trapping experiments test indicated that h+ was the main active species. The possible degradation mechanism was proposed.
A New Piano-Stool Ruthenium(II) P-Cymene-Based Complex: Crystallographic, Hirshfeld Surface, DFT, and Luminescent Studies
Authors: Muddassir Mohd. , Alarifi Abdullah , Afzal Mohd.
Published: December 2020

A new complex (Ru(η6-p-cymene)(5-ASA)Cl2) (1) where 5-ASA is 5-aminosalicylic acid has been prepared by reacting the ruthenium arene precursors ((η6-arene)Ru(μ-Cl)Cl)2, with the 5-ASA ligands in a 1:1 ratio. Full characterization of complex 1 was accomplished by elemental analysis, IR, and TGA following the structure obtained from a single-crystal X-ray pattern. The structural analysis revealed that complex 1 shows a “piano-stool” geometry with Ru-C (2.160(5)- 2.208(5)Å), Ru-N (2.159(4) Å) distances, which is similar to equivalents sister complex. Density functional theory (DFT) was used to calculate the significant molecular orbital energy levels, binding energies, bond angles, bond lengths, and spectral data (FTIR, NMR, and UV–VIS) of complex 1, consistent with the experimental results. The IR and UV–VIS spectra of complex 1 were computed using all of the methods and choose the most appropriate way to discuss. Hirshfeld surface analysis was also executed to understand the role of weak interactions such as H⋯H, C⋯H, C-H⋯π, and vdW interactions, which play a significant role in the crystal environment’s stability. Moreover, the luminescence results at room temperature show that complex 1 gives a more intense emission band positioned at 465 nm upon excitation at 330 nm makes it a suitable candidate for the building of photoluminescent material.
Morphology and Genesis of Ballas and Ballas-Like Diamonds
Authors: Pavlushin Anton , Zedgenizov Dmitry , Vasil’ev Evgeny , Kuper Konstantin
Published: December 2020

Ballas diamond is a rare form of the polycrystalline radial aggregate of diamonds with diverse internal structures. The morphological features of ballas diamonds have experienced repeated revision. The need that this paper presents for development of a crystal-genetic classification was determined by a rich variety of combined and transitional forms of ballas-like diamonds, which include aggregates, crystals, and intergrowths. The new crystal-genetic classification combines already-known and new morphological types of ballas as well as ballas-like diamonds discovered in the placers of Yakutia, the Urals, and Brazil. The ballas-like diamond forms include spherocrystals, aggregates with a single crystal core, split crystals, radial multiple twin intergrowths, and globular crystals. The crystal genetic scheme of the evolution of ballas and ballas-like diamonds is a sequence of the morphological types arranged in accordance with the conventional model of the dependence of the mechanism and diamond growth from carbon supersaturation developed by I. Sunagawa. The evolution of the growth forms of ballas and ballas-like diamonds was tracked based on the macrozonal structure of diamonds varying from a flat-faced octahedron to a fibrous cuboid with its transition forms to the radiating crystal aggregates. The morphological diversity of the ballas-like diamonds depends on the level of supersaturation, and abrupt changes of the level of supersaturation engender abrupt changes in a mechanism of crystal growth. The change in the rate of growth under the influence of adsorption and absorption of the mechanic impurities accompanied the sudden appearance of the autodeformation defects in the form of splitting and multiple radial twinning of crystals. The spherical shape of Yakutia ballas-like diamonds is due to the volumetric dissolution that results in the curved-face crystals of the “Urals” or “Brazilian” type associated with ballas diamonds in placers.
MicroRNAs: An Update of Applications in Forensic Science
Authors: Rocchi Anna , Chiti Enrica , Maiese Aniello , Turillazzi Emanuela , Spinetti Isabella
Published: December 2020

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of non-coding RNAs containing 18–24 nucleotides that are involved in the regulation of many biochemical mechanisms in the human body. The level of miRNAs in body fluids and tissues increases because of altered pathophysiological mechanisms, thus they are employed as biomarkers for various diseases and conditions. In recent years, miRNAs obtained a great interest in many fields of forensic medicine given their stability and specificity. Several specific miRNAs have been studied in body fluid identification, in wound vitality in time of death determination, in drowning, in the anti-doping field, and other forensic fields. However, the major problems are (1) lack of universal protocols for diagnostic expression testing and (2) low reproducibility of independent studies. This review is an update on the application of these molecular markers in forensic biology.
Prognostic Value of Baseline Radiomic Features of 18F-FDG PET in Patients with Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Lue Kun-Han , Wu Yi-Feng , Lin Hsin-Hon , Hsieh Tsung-Cheng , Liu Shu-Hsin , Chan Sheng-Chieh , Chen Yu-Hung
Published: December 2020

This study investigates whether baseline 18F-FDG PET radiomic features can predict survival outcomes in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). We retrospectively enrolled 83 patients diagnosed with DLBCL who underwent 18F-FDG PET scans before treatment. The patients were divided into the training cohort (n = 58) and the validation cohort (n = 25). Eighty radiomic features were extracted from the PET images for each patient. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression were used to reduce the dimensionality within radiomic features. Cox proportional hazards model was used to determine the prognostic factors for progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). A prognostic stratification model was built in the training cohort and validated in the validation cohort using Kaplan–Meier survival analysis. In the training cohort, run length non-uniformity (RLN), extracted from a gray level run length matrix (GLRLM), was independently associated with PFS (hazard ratio (HR) = 15.7, p = 0.007) and OS (HR = 8.64, p = 0.040). The International Prognostic Index was an independent prognostic factor for OS (HR = 2.63, p = 0.049). A prognostic stratification model was devised based on both risk factors, which allowed identification of three risk groups for PFS and OS in the training (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001) and validation (p < 0.001 and p = 0.020) cohorts. Our results indicate that the baseline 18F-FDG PET radiomic feature, RLNGLRLM, is an independent prognostic factor for survival outcomes. Furthermore, we propose a prognostic stratification model that may enable tailored therapeutic strategies for patients with DLBCL.
MIMO Self-Heterodyne OFDM Using Band Selection Technique
Authors: Zaki Amira I. , Abdelgelil Mai , El-Khamy Said E. , Badawi Waleed K.
Published: December 2020

The 5G technology is a promising technology to cope with the increasing demand for higher data rate and quality of service. In this paper, two proposed techniques are implemented for multiple input multiple output (MIMO) self-heterodyne OFDM system to enhance data rate and minimize the bit error rate (BER). In both of the two proposed techniques, Band Selection (BS) approach is used, once with Space Time Block Coded (STBC) for the first proposed technique (BS- STBC), and once again with Frequency Space Time Block Coded (FSTBC) for the second proposed technique (BS-FSTBC). The use of the BS in the proposed techniques helps to choose the sub-band with better subchannels gains for sending the information and consequently, minimize the BER. Moreover, the use of the FSTBC instead of STBC helps to use the spectral efficiently and hence increase data rate. The simulation results show that the proposed techniques BS-STBC and BS-FSTBC, for the MIMO self-heterodyne OFDM system, provide a great enhancement in the BER performance when compared to the conventional techniques. Moreover, the simulation results show that the first proposed technique BS-FSTBC outperform the second propose technique BS-STBC in term of the BER performance.
Design of a Real-Time Breakdown Voltage and On-Chip Temperature Monitoring System for Single Photon Avalanche Diodes
Authors: Deng Shijie , Morrison Alan P. , Guo Yong , Teng Chuanxin , Chen Ming , Cheng Yu , Liu Houquan , Xiong Xianming , Yuan Libo
Published: December 2020

The design and implementation of a real-time breakdown voltage and on-chip temperature monitoring system for single photon avalanche diodes (SPADs) is described in this work. In the system, an on-chip shaded (active area of the detector covered by a metal layer) SPAD is used to provide a dark count rate for the breakdown voltage and temperature calculation. A bias circuit was designed to provide a bias voltage scanning for the shaded SPAD. A microcontroller records the pulses from the anode of the shaded SPAD and calculates its real-time dark count rate. An algorithm was developed for the microcontroller to calculate the SPAD’s breakdown voltage and the on-chip temperature in real time. Experimental results show that the system is capable of measuring the SPAD’s breakdown voltage with a mismatch of less than 1.2%. Results also show that the system can provide real-time on-chip temperature monitoring for the range of −10 to 50 °C with errors of less than 1.7 °C. The system proposed can be used for the real-time SPAD’s breakdown voltage and temperature estimation for dual-SPADs or SPAD arrays chip where identical detectors are fabricated on the same chip and one or more dummy SPADs are shaded. With the breakdown voltage and the on-chip temperature monitoring, intelligent control logic can be developed to optimize the performance of the SPAD-based photon counting system by adjusting the parameters such as excess bias voltage and dead-time. This is particularly useful for SPAD photon counting systems used in complex working environments such as the applications in 3D LIDAR imaging for geodesy, geology, geomorphology, forestry, atmospheric physics and autonomous vehicles.
Analyze the FMCW Waveform Skin Return of Moving Objects in the Presence of Stationary Hidden Objects Using Numerical Models
Authors: Tang Taiwen , Wu Chen , Elangage Janaka
Published: December 2020

In this paper, a high-performance antenna array system model is presented to analyze moving-object-skin-returns and track them in the presence of stationary objects using frequency modulated continuous wave (FMCW). The main features of the paper are bonding the aspects of antenna array and electromagnetic (EM) wave multi-skin-return modeling and simulation (M&S) with the aspects of algorithm and measurement/tracking system architecture. The M&S aspect models both phase and amplitude of the signal waveform from a transmitter to the signal processing in a receiver. In the algorithm aspect, a novel scheme for FMCW signal processing is introduced by combining time- and frequency-domain methods, including a vector moving target indication filter and a vector direct current canceller in time-domain, and a constant false alarm rate detector and a mono-pulse digital beamforming angle tracker in frequency-domain. In addition, unlike previous designs of using M × N fast Fourier transform (FFT) for an M × N array, only four FFTs are used, which tremendously save time and space in hardware. With the presented model, the detection of the moving-target-skin-return in stationary objects under a noisy environment is feasible. Therefore, to track long range and high-speed objects, the proposed technique is promising. Using a scenario having (1) a target with 17 dBm2 radar cross section (RCS) at about 40 km range with 5.936 Mach speed and 11.6 dB post processing signal to noise ratio, and (2) a strong stationary clutter with 37 dBm2 RCS located at the proximity of the target, it demonstrates that the root-mean-square errors of range, angle, and Doppler measurements are about 26 m, 0.68 degree, and 1100 Hz, respectively.
Systematic Method for the Energy-Saving Potential Calculation of Air Conditioning Systems via Data Mining. Part II: A Detailed Case Study
Authors: Ma Rongjiang , Yang Shen , Wang Xianlin , Wang Xi-Cheng , Shan Ming , Yu Nanyang , Yang Xudong
Published: December 2020

Increased data monitoring enables the energy-efficient operation of air-conditioning systems via data-mining. The latter is projected to have lesser consumption but more comprehensive diagnosis than traditional methods. Following the companion paper that proposed a systematic method for energy-saving potential calculations via data-mining, this article presents a detailed case study in an ice-storage air-conditioning system by employing the proposed method. Raw data were preprocessed prior to recognizing the constant- and variable-speed devices in the system. Classification and regression tree algorithms were utilized to identify the operating modes of the system. The regression models between the energy-consumption and operating-state parameters of the nine pumps and two chillers were fitted. Furthermore, the constraints pertaining to system operation were summarized. From the results, the particle swarm optimization method was applied to elucidate the benchmark energy cost and the consequent cost savings potential. The cost savings potential for the chiller plant room during the investigation duration of 59 d reached as high as 24.03%. The case study demonstrates the feasibility, effectiveness, and stability of the systematic approach. Further studies can facilitate the development of corresponding control strategies based on the potential analysis results, to investigate better optimization algorithm, and visualize the analysis process.
Core Temperature Estimation for a Lithium ion 18650 Cell
Authors: Surya Sumukh , Marcis Vinicius , Williamson Sheldon
Published: December 2020

This paper deals with the estimation of core temperature (Tc) of a Lithium (Li) ion battery using measured ambient and surface temperatures. The temperatures were measured using thermocouples placed at appropriate locations. A second order thermal model was considered for the core temperature (Tc) estimation. A set of coupled linear ordinary differential equations (ODEs) were obtained by applying Kirchhoff’s current and voltage laws to the thermal model. The coupled ODEs were redefined in the discrete state space representation. The thermal model did not account for small changes in surface temperature (Ts). MATLAB/Simulink were used for modelling a Kalman filter with appropriate process and measurement noise levels. It was found that the temperatures closely followed the current patterns. For high currents, Tc dominated the surface temperature by about 3 K. Tc estimation plays a very important role in designing an effective thermal management and maintaining the state of health (SOH) during fast discharges under limits. Most of the battery management system (BMS) applications required Ts as the input to the controller. Hence, an inverse calculation for estimating Ts from known Tc was carried out and found to be reasonably accurate. It was found that the thermal parameter Cs played a major role in the accuracy of Ts prediction and must have low values to minimize errors.
Day-Ahead Market Modelling of Large-Scale Highly-Renewable Multi-Energy Systems: Analysis of the North Sea Region towards 2050
Authors: Gea-Bermúdez Juan , Das Kaushik , Koduvere Hardi , Koivisto Matti Juhani
Published: December 2020

This paper proposes a mathematical model in order to simulate Day-ahead markets of large-scale multi-energy systems with a high share of renewable energy. Furthermore, it analyses the importance of including unit commitment when performing such analysis. The results of the case study, which is performed for the North Sea region, show the influence of massive renewable penetration in the energy sector and increasing electrification of the district heating sector towards 2050, and how this impacts the role of other energy sources, such as thermal and hydro. The penetration of wind and solar is likely to challenge the need for balancing in the system as well as the profitability of thermal units. The degree of influence of the unit commitment approach is found to be dependent on the configuration of the energy system. Overall, including unit commitment constraints with integer variables leads to more realistic behaviour of the units, at the cost of considerably increasing the computational time. Relaxing integer variables significantly reduces the computational time, without highly compromising the accuracy of the results. The proposed model, together with the insights from the study case, can be especially useful for system operators for optimal operational planning.
Improving Energy Transition Analysis Tool through Hydropower Statistical Modelling
Authors: Gallego-Castillo Cristobal , Victoria Marta
Published: December 2020

Reservoir and pumped hydro storage facilities represent one of the best options for providing flexibility at low marginal cost and very low life cycle carbon emissions. However, hydropower generation is subject to physical, environmental and regulatory constraints, which introduce complexity in the modelling of hydropower in the context of transition energy analysis. In this article, a probabilistic model for hydropower generation is developed in order to improve an hourly-resolved tool for transition path analysis presented in previous research. The model is based on time series analysis, which exploits the fact that the different constraints affecting hydropower generation were met in the past. The upgraded version of the transition path analysis tool shows a decrease in the hydropower flexibility as compared with previous published results, providing a better picture of the benefits and drawbacks associated with a specific transition path under analysis, for example in terms of assessing the probability of unserved energy. The upgraded version of the tool was employed to analyse the Spanish National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP), finding consistence between proposals associated with the power system and related CO2 reduction and share of renewable electricity targets.
Innovative Solutions for Improving the Heat Exchange in Closed-Loop Shallow Geothermal Systems
Authors: Floridia Giovanni , Blandini Federica , Iuculano Salvatore , Belfiore Giuseppe M. , Viccaro Marco
Published: December 2020

Thermal conductivity, hydraulics properties and potential use in low-enthalpy geothermal applications of single and double U geothermal probes enhanced with carbon fibre are discussed in this work. Although the efficiency of a shallow geothermal installation is chiefly based on chemical and physical characteristics of rocks and hydrogeological aspects of the subsurface, the total heat extracted from the subsoil also depends on the intrinsic thermal characteristics of probes. New configurations and solutions aimed at enhancing the performance of components are therefore of considerable interest in this field of research. As a consequence of the economic and versatility advantages of the components, geothermal probes have been generally developed with materials like polyethylene, which presents, however, isolating behaviour that does not allow ideal heat exchange in ground source heat pump systems (GSHP). Innovative combinations of different materials are therefore necessary in order to improve thermal conductivity and to preserve the exceptional workability and commercial advantages of the finest elements available on the market. This work presents results coming from experimental tests involving standard polyethylene geothermal probes integrated with radial rings of polyacrylonitrile-based carbon fibre (PAN). Our evaluations are aimed at finding the best solutions for thermal exchange and adaptability with respect to traditional systems. Hydraulic and thermal performances and the response in a geo-exchange system have been verified. The new solutions appear to be highly suitable as geothermal exchangers in shallow geothermal systems and contribute to significantly reduce the total costs pertaining to the drilling operations.
Numerical and Experimental Analysis of Flow Pattern, Pressure Drop and Collection Efficiency in a Cyclone with a Square Inlet and Different Dimensions of a Vortex Finder
Authors: Wójtowicz Ryszard , Wolak Paweł , Wójtowicz-Wróbel Agnieszka
Published: December 2020

The paper presents results of numerical simulations and experimental investigations of a cyclone with a square inlet and different dimensions of a vortex finder. Investigations were conducted for five, different cyclone models. The main goal of the research was to determine the influence of cyclone vortex finder geometry (diameter, length) on key parameters for a cyclone operation, such as: gas flow pattern, gas velocity and pressure distribution, pressure drop and collection efficiency. The analysis of flow pattern inside the cyclone was carried out with the use of CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) simulations, verified using CTA (Constant Temperature Anemometry). Similarly, pressure distributions, pressure drop and collection efficiency for cyclones were determined numerically and with measurements. The study demonstrated that dimensions of the vortex finder have a significant effect on a cyclone performance. The numerical visualisations of flow showed some unfavorable and beneficial effects and phenomena that may occur in cyclones. Moreover, the smallest pressure drop (305 Pa) was predicted for the cyclone with a maximum diameter of the vortex finder (De = 0.105 m), the largest (358 Pa) when this diameter was the smallest (De = 0.075 m). The tests did not show any significant influence of the vortex finder length on the pressure drop in a cyclone. A different tendency was observed in the case of collection efficiency. The maximum value of this parameter (89.5%) was predicted for the cyclone with the shortest vortex finder (s = 0.060 m), minimum (85.5%) when the vortex finder was the longest (s = 0.220 m). In this case, however, tests did not show a significant impact of an outlet diameter on the collection efficiency. Results and conclusions presented in this paper can be practically used for design optimization of cyclone separators, and also to select their operating parameters.
Root-Soil Plate Characteristics of Silver Birch on Wet and Dry Mineral Soils in Latvia
Authors: Samariks Valters , Īstenais Nauris , Seipulis Andris , Miezīte Olga , Krišāns Oskars , Jansons Āris
Published: December 2020

Climate change manifests itself as a change in the probability of extreme weather events, and it is projected that windstorms will become more frequent and intense in Northern Europe. Additionally, the frequency and length of warm periods with wet, unfrozen soil in winter will rise in this region. These factors will lead to an increased risk of storm damages in forests. Factors affecting trees’ resistance to wind uprooting have been well quantified for some species but not for a common and economically important tree, the silver birch (Betula pendula Roth.). Therefore, this study aimed to assess the root-soil plate characteristics of silver birch on wet and dry mineral soils in hemiboreal forests. The root-soil plate and aboveground parameters were measured for 56 canopy trees uprooted in destructive, static-pulling experiments. The shape of the root-soil plate corresponds to the elliptic paraboloid. A decreasing yet slightly different trend was observed in root depth distribution with increasing distance from the stem in both soils. The main factors determining root-soil plate volume were width, which was notably larger on wet mineral soils, and tree diameter at breast height. Consequently, the root-soil plate volume was significantly larger for trees growing on wet mineral soils than for trees growing on dry soils, indicating a wind adaptation.
Wind Resistance of Eastern Baltic Silver Birch (Betula pendula Roth.) Suggests Its Suitability for Periodically Waterlogged Sites
Authors: Krišāns Oskars , Matisons Roberts , Kitenberga Māra , Donis Jānis , Rust Steffen , Elferts Didzis , Jansons Āris
Published: December 2020

Storms and wind damage are the main cause of biomass loss in forests of Northern Europe, as well as they are synergic with the disturbances causing intense water and temperature stress. This highlights the necessity for climate-smart management at landscape level coupling ecological demands of forestry species with their wind resistance. Silver birch (Betula pendula Roth.), which is highly plastic species, appears to be promising for a wider application under such conditions, as it is believed to tolerate wide range of weather conditions. Though silver birch can be sensitive to water deficit and windthrow, local information on its wind tolerance in sites with different moisture regimes is advantageous. Mechanical stability of 71 mid-aged silver birches (Betula pendula Roth.) growing in seven dry (Hylocomiosa) and five periodically waterlogged (Myrtilloso-sphagnosa) sites with mineral soils in Latvia (hemiboreal lowland conditions) were assessed by the destructive static pulling tests. Site type had a significant, yet intermediate effect on the stability of silver birch. As expected, trees under periodically waterlogged conditions were more prone to collapse under static loading, however, they showed a better resistance to primary failure (beginning of wood structure deformation). Uprooting was the most common form of tree collapse. Surprisingly, considering similar root depths, stem breakage was more frequent in the periodically waterlogged than dry sites (21.9 vs. 5.1%, respectively), indicating high loading resistance of roots, supporting high plasticity and wind resistance of the studied metapopulation of silver birch. Nevertheless, in the periodically waterlogged sites, the difference between forces needed to cause primary and secondary (collapse) failures of stem decreased with age/size, implying necessity for optimization of rotation length. Accordingly, quantification of wind resistance can aid climate-smart selection of species for forest regeneration depending on landscape, suggesting birch as wind resistant option under periodically waterlogged conditions.
Spatial and Temporal Patterns of Endopolyploidy in Mosses
Authors: Paľová Marianna , Ručová Dajana , Goga Michal , Kolarčik Vladislav
Published: December 2020

Somatic polyploidy or endopolyploidy is common in the plant kingdom; it ensures growth and allows adaptation to the environment. It is present in the majority of plant groups, including mosses. Endopolyploidy had only been previously studied in about 65 moss species, which represents less than 1% of known mosses. We analyzed 11 selected moss species to determine the spatial and temporal distribution of endopolyploidy using flow cytometry to identify patterns in ploidy levels among gametophytes and sporophytes. All of the studied mosses possessed cells with various ploidy levels in gametophytes, and four of six species investigated in sporophytic stage had endopolyploid sporophytes. The proportion of endopolyploid cells varied among organs, parts of gametophytes and sporophytes, and ontogenetic stages. Higher ploidy levels were seen in basal parts of gametophytes and sporophytes than in apical parts. Slight changes in ploidy levels were observed during ontogenesis in cultivated mosses; the youngest (apical) parts of thalli tend to have lower levels of endopolyploidy. Differences between parts of cauloid and phylloids of Plagiomnium ellipticum and Polytrichum formosum were also documented; proximal parts had higher levels of endopolyploidy than distal parts. Endopolyploidy is spatially and temporally differentiated in the gametophytes of endopolyploid mosses and follows a pattern similar to that seen in angiosperms.
Plasmodium vivax Cysteine-Rich Protective Antigen Polymorphism at Exon-1 Shows Recombination and Signatures of Balancing Selection
Authors: González-Cerón Lilia , Cebrián-Carmona José , Mesa-Valle Concepción M. , García-Maroto Federico , Santillán-Valenzuela Frida , Garrido-Cardenas Jose Antonio
Published: December 2020

Plasmodium vivax Cysteine-Rich Protective Antigen (CyRPA) is a merozoite protein participating in the parasite invasion of human reticulocytes. During natural P. vivax infection, antibody responses against PvCyRPA have been detected. In children, low anti-CyRPA antibody titers correlated with clinical protection, which suggests this protein as a potential vaccine candidate. This work analyzed the genetic and amino acid diversity of pvcyrpa in Mexican and global parasites. Consensus coding sequences of pvcyrpa were obtained from seven isolates. Other sequences were extracted from a repository. Maximum likelihood phylogenetic trees, genetic diversity parameters, linkage disequilibrium (LD), and neutrality tests were analyzed, and the potential amino acid polymorphism participation in B-cell epitopes was investigated. In 22 sequences from Southern Mexico, two synonymous and 21 nonsynonymous mutations defined nine private haplotypes. These parasites had the highest LD-R2 index and the lowest nucleotide diversity compared to isolates from South America or Asia. The nucleotide diversity and Tajima’s D values varied across the coding gene. The exon-1 sequence had greater diversity and Rm values than those of exon-2. Exon-1 had significant positive values for Tajima’s D, β-α values, and for the Z (HA: dN > dS) and MK tests. These patterns were similar for parasites of different origin. The polymorphic amino acid residues at PvCyRPA resembled the conformational B-cell peptides reported in PfCyRPA. Diversity at pvcyrpa exon-1 is caused by mutation and recombination. This seems to be maintained by balancing selection, likely due to selective immune pressure, all of which merit further study.
Towards Closing the Polar Gap: New Marine Heat Flow Observations in Antarctica and the Arctic Ocean
Authors: Dziadek Ricarda , Doll Mechthild , Warnke Fynn , Schlindwein Vera
Published: December 2020

The thermal state of the lithosphere and related geothermal heat flow (GHF) is a crucial parameter to understand a variety of processes related to cryospheric, geospheric, and/or biospheric interactions. Indirect estimates of GHF in polar regions from magnetic, seismological, or petrological data often show large discrepancies when compared to thermal in situ observations. Here, the lack of in situ data represents a fundamental limitation for both investigating thermal processes of the lithosphere and validating indirect heat flow estimates. During RV Polarstern expeditions PS86 and PS118, we obtained in situ thermal measurements and present the derived GHF in key regions, such as the Antarctic Peninsula and the Gakkel Ridge in the Arctic. By comparison with indirect models, our results indicate (1) elevated geothermal heat flow (75 ± 5 mW m−2 to 139 ± 26 mW m−2) to the west of the Antarctic Peninsula, which should be considered for future investigations of ice-sheet dynamics and the visco-elastic behavior of the crust. (2) The thermal signature of the Powell Basin characteristic for oceanic crust of an age between 32 and 18 Ma. Further, we propose (3) that at different heat sources at the slow-spreading Gakkel Ridge in the Aurora Vent Field region might explain the geothermal heat flow distribution. We conclude that in situ observations are urgently required to ground-truth and fine-tune existing models and that a multidisciplinary approach is of high importance for the scientific community’s understanding of this parameter.
Synthesis and Biological Activity of Brassinosteroid Analogues with a Nitrogen-Containing Side Chain
Authors: Diachkov Mikhail V. , Ferrer Karoll , Oklestkova Jana , Rarova Lucie , Bazgier Vaclav , Kvasnica Miroslav
Published: December 2020

Brassinosteroids are a class of plant hormones that regulate a broad range of physiological processes such as plant growth, development and immunity, including the suppression of biotic and abiotic stresses. In this paper, we report the synthesis of new brassinosteroid analogues with a nitrogen-containing side chain and their biological activity on Arabidopis thaliana. Based on molecular docking experiments, two groups of brassinosteroid analogues were prepared with short and long side chains in order to study the impact of side chain length on plants. The derivatives with a short side chain were prepared with amide, amine and ammonium functional groups. The derivatives with a long side chain were synthesized using amide and ammonium functional groups. A total of 25 new brassinosteroid analogues were prepared. All 25 compounds were tested in an Arabidopsis root sensitivity bioassay and cytotoxicity screening. The synthesized substances showed no significant inhibitory activity compared to natural 24-epibrassinolide. In contrast, in low concentration, several compounds (8a, 8b, 8e, 16e, 22a and 22e) showed interesting growth-promoting activity. The cytotoxicity assay showed no toxicity of the prepared compounds on cancer and normal cell lines.
3D Dissection of Structural Membrane-Wall Contacts in Filamentous Moss Protonemata
Authors: Harant Dominik , Lang Ingeborg
Published: December 2020

In conventional light microscopy, the adjacent cell walls of filamentous moss protonemata are seen from its narrow side thereby obscuring the major area of cell–cell connection. Optical sectioning, segmentation and 3D reconstructions allow the tilting and rotation of intracellular structures thereby greatly improving our understanding of interaction between organelles, membranes and the cell wall. Often, the findings also allow for conclusions on the respective functions. The moss Physcomitrium (Physcomitrella) patens is a model organism for growth, development and morphogenesis. Its filamentous protonemata are ideal objects for microscopy. Here, we investigated the cell wall between two neighboring cells and the connection of membranes towards this wall after plasmolysis in 0.8 M mannitol. An m-green fluorescent protein (GFP)-HDEL cell line was used to visualize the endoplasmatic reticulum (ER), the plasma membrane (PM) was stained with FM4-64. Our studies clearly show the importance of cell–cell contacts in P. patens protonemata. In 86% of the investigated cell pairs, at least one of the protoplasts remained fully attached to the adjacent cell wall. By tilting of z-stacks, volume renderings and 3D reconstructions, we visualized the amount of attached/detached PM and ER components after plasmolysis and membrane piercings through the wall of cell neighbors.
Application of Aptamer-Based Assays to the Diagnosis of Arboviruses Important for Public Health in Brazil
Authors: Argondizzo Ana Paula Corrêa , Silva Dilson , Missailidis Sotiris
Published: December 2020

Arbovirus infections represent a global public health problem, and recent epidemics of yellow fever, dengue, and Zika have shown their critical importance in Brazil and worldwide. Whilst a major effort for vaccination programs has been in the spotlight, a number of aptamer approaches have been proposed in a complementary manner, offering the possibility of differential diagnosis between these arboviruses, which often present similar clinical symptoms, as well as the potential for a treatment option when no other alternative is available. In this review, we aim to provide a background on arbovirus, with a basic description of the main viral classes and the disease they cause, using the Brazilian context to build a comprehensive understanding of their role on a global scale. Subsequently, we offer an exhaustive revision of the diagnostic and therapeutic approaches offered by aptamers against arboviruses. We demonstrate how these promising reagents could help in the clinical diagnosis of this group of viruses, their use in a range of diagnostic formats, from biosensors to serological testing, and we give a short review on the potential approaches for novel aptamer-based antiviral treatment options against different arboviral diseases.
Admixture Analysis Using Genotyping-by-Sequencing Reveals Genetic Relatedness and Parental Lineage Distribution in Highbush Blueberry Genotypes and Cross Derivatives
Authors: Kulkarni Krishnanand P. , Vorsa Nicholi , Natarajan Purushothaman , Elavarthi Sathya , Iorizzo Massimo , Reddy Umesh K. , Melmaiee Kalpalatha
Published: December 2020

Blueberries (Vaccinium section Cyanococcus) are perennial shrubs widely cultivated for their edible fruits. In this study, we performed admixture and genetic relatedness analysis of northern highbush (NHB, primarily V. corymbosum) and southern highbush (SHB, V. corymbosum introgressed with V. darrowii, V. virgatum, or V. tenellum) blueberry genotypes, and progenies of the BNJ16-5 cross (V. corymbosum × V. darrowii). Using genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS), we generated more than 334 million reads (75 bp). The GBS reads were aligned to the V. corymbosum cv. Draper v1.0 reference genome sequence, and ~2.8 million reads were successfully mapped. From the alignments, we identified 2,244,039 single-nucleotide polymorphisms, which were used for principal component, haplotype, and admixture analysis. Principal component analysis revealed three main groups: (1) NHB cultivars, (2) SHB cultivars, and (3) BNJ16-5 progenies. The overall fixation index (FST) and nucleotide diversity for NHB and SHB cultivars indicated wide genetic differentiation, and haplotype analysis revealed that SHB cultivars are more genetically diverse than NHB cultivars. The admixture analysis identified a mixture of various lineages of parental genomic introgression. This study demonstrated the effectiveness of GBS-derived single-nucleotide polymorphism markers in genetic and admixture analyses to reveal genetic relatedness and to examine parental lineages in blueberry, which may be useful for future breeding plans.
Pro-Inflammatory Effect of Gliadins and Glutenins Extracted from Different Wheat Cultivars on an In Vitro 3D Intestinal Epithelium Model
Authors: Truzzi Francesca , Tibaldi Camilla , Whittaker Anne , Dilloo Silvia , Spisni Enzo , Dinelli Giovanni
Published: December 2020

There is a need to assess the relationship between improved rheological properties and the immunogenic potential of wheat proteins. The present study aimed to investigate the in vitro effects of total protein extracts from three modern and two landrace Triticum aestivum commercial flour mixes, with significant differences in gluten strength (GS), on cell lines. Cytotoxicity and innate immune responses induced by wheat proteins were investigated using Caco-2 monocultures, two dimensional (2D) Caco-2/U937 co-cultures, and three dimensional (3D) co-cultures simulating the intestinal mucosa with Caco-2 epithelial cells situated above an extra-cellular matrix containing U937 monocytes and L929 fibroblasts. Modern wheat proteins, with increased GS, significantly reduced Caco-2 cell proliferation and vitality in monoculture and 2D co-cultures than landrace proteins. Modern wheat proteins also augmented Caco-2 monolayer disruption and tight junction protein, occludin, redistribution in 3D co-cultures. Release of interleukin-8 into the cell medium and increased U937 monocyte migration in both 2D and 3D co-cultures were similarly apparent. Immuno-activation of migrating U937 cells was evidenced from cluster of differentiation 14 (CD14) staining and CD11b-related differentiation into macrophages. The modern wheat proteins, with gluten polymorphism relatedness and increased GS, were shown to be more cytotoxic and immunogenic than the landrace wheat proteins.
PI3K/AKT/mTOR Signaling Pathway in Breast Cancer: From Molecular Landscape to Clinical Aspects
Authors: Miricescu Daniela , Totan Alexandra , Stanescu-Spinu Iulia-Ioana , Badoiu Silviu Constantin , Stefani Constantin , Greabu Maria
Published: December 2020

Breast cancer is a serious health problem worldwide, representing the second cause of death through malignancies among women in developed countries. Population, endogenous and exogenous hormones, and physiological, genetic and breast-related factors are involved in breast cancer pathogenesis. The phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a signaling pathway involved in cell proliferation, survival, invasion, migration, apoptosis, glucose metabolism and DNA repair. In breast tumors, PIK3CA somatic mutations have been reported, located in exon 9 and exon 20. Up to 40% of PIK3CA mutations are estrogen receptor (ER) positive and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) -negative in primary and metastatic breast cancer. HER2 is overexpressed in 20–30% of breast cancers. HER1, HER2, HER3 and HER4 are membrane receptor tyrosine kinases involved in HER signaling to which various ligands can be attached, leading to PI3K/AKT activation. Currently, clinical studies evaluate inhibitors of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR axis. The main purpose of this review is to present general aspects of breast cancer, the components of the AKT signaling pathway, the factors that activate this protein kinase B, PI3K/AKT-breast cancer mutations, PI3K/AKT/mTOR-inhibitors, and the relationship between everolimus, temsirolimus and endocrine therapy.