bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insights into Cell Surface Expression, Supramolecular Organization, and Functions of Aquaporin 4 Isoforms in Astrocytes
Authors: Jorgačevski Jernej , Zorec Robert , Potokar Maja
Published: December 2020

Aquaporin 4 (AQP4) is the most abundant water channel in the central nervous system (CNS). Its expression is confined to non-neuronal glial cells, predominantly to astrocytes that represent a heterogeneous glial cell type in the CNS. The membrane of astrocyte processes, which align brain capillaries and pia, is particularly rich in AQP4. Several isoforms of AQP4 have been described; however, only some (AQP4a (M1), AQP4 c (M23), AQP4e, and AQP4ex) have been identified in the plasma membrane assemblies of astrocytes termed orthogonal arrays of particles (OAPs). Intracellular splicing isoforms (AQP4b, AQP4d, AQP4f, AQP4-Δ4) have been documented, and most of them are postulated to have a role in the cell surface distribution of the plasma membrane isoforms and in the formation of OAPs in murine and human astrocytes. Although OAPs have been proposed to play various roles in the functioning of astrocytes and CNS tissue as a whole, many of these still need to be described. OAPs are studied primarily from the perspective of understanding water permeability regulation through the plasma membrane and of their involvement in cell adhesion and in the dynamics of astrocytic processes. This review describes the cellular distribution of various AQP4 isoforms and their implications in OAP assembly, which is regulated by several intracellular and extracellular proteins.
Skin-Associated B Cells in the Pathogenesis of Cutaneous Autoimmune Diseases—Implications for Therapeutic Approaches
Authors: Fetter Tanja , Niebel Dennis , Braegelmann Christine , Wenzel Joerg
Published: December 2020

B lymphocytes are crucial mediators of systemic immune responses and are known to be substantial in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases with cutaneous manifestations. Amongst them are lupus erythematosus, dermatomyositis, systemic sclerosis and psoriasis, and particularly those driven by autoantibodies such as pemphigus and pemphigoid. However, the concept of autoreactive skin-associated B cells, which may reside in the skin and locally contribute to chronic inflammation, is gradually evolving. These cells are believed to differ from B cells of primary and secondary lymphoid organs and may provide additional features besides autoantibody production, including cytokine expression and crosstalk to autoreactive T cells in an antigen-presenting manner. In chronically inflamed skin, B cells may appear in tertiary lymphoid structures. Those abnormal lymph node-like structures comprise a network of immune and stromal cells possibly enriched by vascular structures and thus constitute an ideal niche for local autoimmune responses. In this review, we describe current considerations of different B cell subsets and their assumed role in skin autoimmunity. Moreover, we discuss traditional and B cell-associated approaches for the treatment of autoimmune skin diseases, including drugs targeting B cells (e.g., CD19- and CD20-antibodies), plasma cells (e.g., proteasome inhibitors, CXCR4 antagonists), activated pathways (such as BTK- and PI3K-inhibitors) and associated activator molecules (BLyS, APRIL).
Effect of SUV39H1 Histone Methyltransferase Knockout on Expression of Differentiation-Associated Genes in HaCaT Keratinocytes
Authors: Sobiak Barbara , Leśniak Wiesława
Published: December 2020

Keratinocytes undergo a complex differentiation process, coupled with extensive changes in gene expression through which they acquire distinctive features indispensable for cells that form the external body barrier—epidermis. Disturbed epidermal differentiation gives rise to multiple skin diseases. The involvement of epigenetic factors, such as DNA methylation or histone modifications, in the regulation of epidermal gene expression and differentiation has not been fully recognized yet. In this work we performed a CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout of SUV39H1, a gene-encoding H3K9 histone methyltransferase, in HaCaT cells that originate from spontaneously immortalized human keratinocytes and examined changes in the expression of selected differentiation-specific genes located in the epidermal differentiation complex (EDC) and other genomic locations by RT-qPCR. The studied genes revealed a diverse differentiation state-dependent or -independent response to a lower level of H3K9 methylation. We also show, by means of chromatin immunoprecipitation, that the expression of genes in the LCE1 subcluster of EDC was regulated by the extent of trimethylation of lysine 9 in histone H3 bound to their promoters. Changes in gene expression were accompanied by changes in HaCaT cell morphology and adhesion.
Extracellular Matrix Mechanical Properties and Regulation of the Intestinal Stem Cells: When Mechanics Control Fate
Authors: Onfroy-Roy Lauriane , Hamel Dimitri , Foncy Julie , Malaquin Laurent , Ferrand Audrey
Published: December 2020

Intestinal stem cells (ISC) are crucial players in colon epithelium physiology. The accurate control of their auto-renewal, proliferation and differentiation capacities provides a constant flow of regeneration, maintaining the epithelial intestinal barrier integrity. Under stress conditions, colon epithelium homeostasis in disrupted, evolving towards pathologies such as inflammatory bowel diseases or colorectal cancer. A specific environment, namely the ISC niche constituted by the surrounding mesenchymal stem cells, the factors they secrete and the extracellular matrix (ECM), tightly controls ISC homeostasis. Colon ECM exerts physical constraint on the enclosed stem cells through peculiar topography, stiffness and deformability. However, little is known on the molecular and cellular events involved in ECM regulation of the ISC phenotype and fate. To address this question, combining accurately reproduced colon ECM mechanical parameters to primary ISC cultures such as organoids is an appropriated approach. Here, we review colon ECM physical properties at physiological and pathological states and their bioengineered in vitro reproduction applications to ISC studies.
Rho GTPases Signaling in Zebrafish Development and Disease
Authors: Boueid Marie-José , Mikdache Aya , Lesport Emilie , Degerny Cindy , Tawk Marcel
Published: December 2020

Cells encounter countless external cues and the specificity of their responses is translated through a myriad of tightly regulated intracellular signals. For this, Rho GTPases play a central role and transduce signals that contribute to fundamental cell dynamic and survival events. Here, we review our knowledge on how zebrafish helped us understand the role of some of these proteins in a multitude of in vivo cellular behaviors. Zebrafish studies offer a unique opportunity to explore the role and more specifically the spatial and temporal dynamic of Rho GTPases activities within a complex environment at a level of details unachievable in any other vertebrate organism.
RNA-Seq Analysis of Cisplatin and the Monofunctional Platinum(II) Complex, Phenanthriplatin, in A549 Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer and IMR90 Lung Fibroblast Cell Lines
Authors: Monroe Jerry D. , Moolani Satya A. , Irihamye Elvin N. , Speed Joshua S. , Gibert Yann , Smith Michael E.
Published: December 2020

Phenanthriplatin is a new monofunctional platinum(II) complex that binds only one strand of DNA and acts by blocking gene transcription, but its effect on gene regulation has not been characterized relative to the traditional platinum-based complex, cisplatin. A549 non-small cell lung cancer and IMR90 lung fibroblast cells were treated with cisplatin, phenanthriplatin, or a control and then their RNA transcripts were subjected to next generation sequencing analysis. DESeq2 and CuffDiff2 were used to identify up- and downregulated genes and Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes databases were used to identify pathways and functions. We found that phenanthriplatin may regulate the genes GPRC5a, TFF1, and TNFRSF10D, which act through p53 to control apoptosis, differently or to a greater extent than cisplatin, and that it, unlike cisplatin, could upregulate ATP5MD, a gene which signals through the Wnt/β catenin pathway. Furthermore, phenanthriplatin caused unique or enhanced effects compared to cisplatin on genes regulating the cytoskeleton, cell migration, and proliferation, e.g., AGAP1, DIAPH2, GDF15, and THSD1 (p < 0.05; q < 0.05). Phenanthriplatin may modulate some oncogenes differently than cisplatin potentially leading to improved clinical outcome, but this monofunctional complex should be carefully matched with cancer gene data to be successfully applied in chemotherapy.
Etiology and Outcome of Acute Liver Failure in Children—The Experience of a Single Tertiary Care Hospital from Romania
Authors: Grama Alina , Aldea Cornel Olimpiu , Burac Lucia , Delean Dan , Bulata Bogdan , Sirbe Claudia , Duca Emanuela , Boghitoiu Dora , Coroleuca Alexandra , Pop Tudor Lucian
Published: December 2020

Background: Acute liver failure (ALF) is a rare disease, associated with high mortality, despite optimal medical therapy without emergency liver transplantation. Knowing the possible cause of ALF plays a vital role in the management, as the child could benefit from effective specific therapies in emergencies. Methods: We have analyzed the etiology and outcome of ALF in children followed-up in a tertiary care hospital between January 2012–December 2018. The patients were grouped into different age categories: neonates (0–1 month), infants (1–12 months), children (1–14 years), and teenagers (14–18 years). Results: 97 children (46 males, 47.42%, the mean age of 7.66 ± 8.18 years) were admitted with ALF. The most important causes of ALF were in neonates and infants, infections (72.72%), and metabolic disorders (43.47%), in children and adolescents were the toxic causes (60% and 79.41%). The mortality rate was 31.95% (31 patients), mainly in ALF due to infections or metabolic disorders. Conclusions: In neonates and infants, the main causes of ALF were infections and metabolic diseases, while in older children and teenagers, were toxin-induced liver injuries. The mortality among neonates and infants was significantly higher than in other ages. Early recognition and immediate therapeutic intervention could improve the outcome of these patients.
Effect of WC-Ni Powder Composition and Preparation on Cold Spray Performance
Authors: Heelan Joseph , Langan Sean M. , Walde Caitlin , Nardi Aaron , Siopis Matthew , Barth Robert , Landry Timothy , Birt Aaron
Published: December 2020

Toxic metal reduction is at the forefront of many design considerations today; additive manufacturing has the ability to combine materials in ways other traditional processes cannot and has the potential to offer unique solutions to reduce hazardous materials needed in manufacturing. Tungsten carbide (WC) has been used as a substitute in wear applications where toxic processes are traditionally utilized, but it can be difficult to deposit high-quality, hard and durable coatings. Additionally, there is a need to apply WC coatings on surfaces not feasible with the current processes. Cold spray, a solid-state directed powder deposition process, is effective at depositing carbides, though powders must be thoughtfully designed to achieve desired mechanical properties. In this study, WC was investigated as a hard chrome alternative for wear applications. Various blend ratios and preparation methods were evaluated as feedstock powder and then sprayed. Feedstock characteristics were compared to cold spray performance. Cold spray consolidations were evaluated for coating porosity and hardness. It was found that when powder make-up and composition were optimized, a high-hardness and low-porosity material was made that will contribute to the reduction in dependency of Cr in wear-facing components.
Indo-Pacific Phylogeography of the Lemon Sponge Leucetta chagosensis
Authors: Pasnin Olivier , Voigt Oliver , Wörheide Gert , Murillo Rincón Andrea P. , von der Heyden Sophie
Published: December 2020

The sponge Leucetta chagosensis Dendy (1913) has a wide distribution throughout the Indo-Pacific (IP) region, with previous studies focussing primarily on the western Pacific Ocean. To increase our knowledge of the spatial variation of genetic diversity throughout the IP, we constructed a phylogeny for L. chagosensis for the IP to assess the evolutionary patterns for this species. We generated 188 sequences of L. chagosensis and constructed maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference trees, using concatenated mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit 3 gene (cox3) and nuclear ribosomal RNA gene (28S) markers for the first time. The spatial variation of genetic diversity of L. chagosensis was assessed using a phylogeographic approach. Leucetta chagosensis is composed of five cryptic lineages confined to different biogeographic regions with the specimens found in the Indian Ocean differing significantly from those found in the rest of the IP region. Genetic divergence was particularly high for the cox3 marker, with a low nucleotide diversity but high haplotype diversity for most lineages. This study highlights the need for a sustained effort in studying sponge diversity, boosted by the ongoing discovery of hidden biodiversity among this ecologically important taxon.
An Aggregated-Based Deep Learning Method for Leukemic B-lymphoblast Classification
Authors: Kasani Payam Hosseinzadeh , Park Sang-Won , Jang Jae-Won
Published: December 2020

Leukemia is a cancer of blood cells in the bone marrow that affects both children and adolescents. The rapid growth of unusual lymphocyte cells leads to bone marrow failure, which may slow down the production of new blood cells, and hence increases patient morbidity and mortality. Age is a crucial clinical factor in leukemia diagnosis, since if leukemia is diagnosed in the early stages, it is highly curable. Incidence is increasing globally, as around 412,000 people worldwide are likely to be diagnosed with some type of leukemia, of which acute lymphoblastic leukemia accounts for approximately 12% of all leukemia cases worldwide. Thus, the reliable and accurate detection of normal and malignant cells is of major interest. Automatic detection with computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) models can assist medics, and can be beneficial for the early detection of leukemia. In this paper, a single center study, we aimed to build an aggregated deep learning model for Leukemic B-lymphoblast classification. To make a reliable and accurate deep learner, data augmentation techniques were applied to tackle the limited dataset size, and a transfer learning strategy was employed to accelerate the learning process, and further improve the performance of the proposed network. The results show that our proposed approach was able to fuse features extracted from the best deep learning models, and outperformed individual networks with a test accuracy of 96.58% in Leukemic B-lymphoblast diagnosis.
Project-Based Teaching of the Topic “Energy Sources” in Physics via Integrated e-Learning—Pedagogical Research in the 9th Grade at Two Primary Schools in Slovakia
Authors: Gerhátová Žaneta , Perichta Peter , Palcut Marián
Published: December 2020

This work presents the results of two-year-long pedagogical research, the aim of which was to demonstrate the applicability of the usage of a new strategy in education—Integrated e-Learning (INTe-L)—through its introduction into project-based physics teaching in Slovakia. The INTe-L strategy is built around the role of experiments and interactive simulations in knowledge acquisition and on the possibility of integrating scientific methods in education. The elements of INTe-L are the following: (a) real on-site and real remote experiments, (b) interactive virtual experiments (e-simulations) and (c) educational e-materials. The primary objective of our study was to determine the suitability of project-based teaching with INTe-L elements for the topic “Energy Sources”. The research was based on the following hypothesis: project-based teaching via INTe-L of the topic “Energy Sources” in physics is more effective than the traditional (instructionist) way of teaching. To verify the hypothesis, we performed a pedagogical experiment on a sample of 155 respondents in the 9th grade at two primary schools in Slovakia. The pupils were divided into two working groups: an experimental group (EG) of 85 pupils and a control group (CG) of 70 pupils. The pupils with worse grades were included in the EG. To get relevant feedback, pre-test and post-test studies and an interview were developed and applied. The results attained in both groups were statistically processed, evaluated and subsequently compared. A two-phase test with dispersion equality proved that differences in the pre-test scores in the EG and CG were not statistically significant. The differences in the final didactic test (post-test) results achieved by the EG and CG, on the other hand, were statistically significant and better scores in the EG were obtained. A positive change of pupils’ attitude in the EG towards physics after the execution of our project-based teaching was noted. The evaluation of the results attained by the pupils proved that the introduction of project-based teaching via INTe-L was an effective strategy to improve Physics teaching. As such, the implementation of this interactive strategy into the instructional education process at primary schools is recommended.
Development and Confirmatory Factor Analysis of the Organisational Communication in Primary Schools Questionnaire
Authors: De Nobile John
Published: December 2020

This article describes the development and subsequent testing of scales representing functions and features of school communication among staff in Australian primary schools using the Organisational Communication in Primary Schools Questionnaire (OCPSQ). The OCPSQ was developed to measure aspects of communication occurring vertically between school leadership and staff members and horizontally among staff members. Elements of classical, human relations, and cultural theories were used to guide questionnaire development. Items were developed to represent theorised communication constructs derived from previous literature. Exploratory factor analysis was used to identify the underlying structure of aspects of communication. Confirmatory factor analysis was employed as a validation of the OCPSQ and its constructs. An interpretable ten-factor solution, representing salient functions and features of organisational communication, was established. Scales generated by the OCPSQ were found to have high reliabilities. The scales represented supportive, directive, cultural, and democratic functions, as well as features of communication relating to openness and load.
Q-Factor Performance of 28 nm-Node High-K Gate Dielectric under DPN Treatment at Different Annealing Temperatures
Authors: Chen Chii-Wen , Wang Shea-Jue , Hsieh Wen-Ching , Chen Jian-Ming , Jong Te , Lan Wen-How , Wang Mu-Chun
Published: December 2020

Q-factor is a reasonable index to investigate the integrity of circuits or devices in terms of their energy or charge storage capabilities. We use this figure of merit to explore the deposition quality of nano-node high-k gate dielectrics by decoupled-plasma nitridation at different temperatures with a fixed nitrogen concentration. This is very important in radio-frequency applications. From the point of view of the Q-factor, the device treated at a higher annealing temperature clearly demonstrates a better Q-factor value. Another interesting observation is the appearance of two troughs in the Q-VGS characteristics, which are strongly related to either the series parasitic capacitance, the tunneling effect, or both.
RSSGM: Recurrent Self-Similar Gauss–Markov Mobility Model
Authors: Alenazi Mohammed J. F. , Abbas Shatha O. , Almowuena Saleh , Alsabaan Maazen
Published: December 2020

Understanding node mobility is critical for the proper simulation of mobile devices in a wireless network. However, current mobility models often do not reflect the realistic movements of users within their environments. They also do not provide the freedom to adjust their degrees of randomness or adequately mimic human movements by injecting possible crossing points and adding recurrent patterns. In this paper, we propose the recurrent self-similar Gauss–Markov mobility (RSSGM) model, a novel mobility model that is suitable for applications in which nodes exhibit recurrent visits to selected locations with semi-similar routes. Examples of such applications include daily human routines, airplane and public transportation routes, and intra-campus student walks. First, we present the proposed algorithm and its assumptions, and then we study its behavior in different scenarios. The study’s results show that different and more realistic mobility traces can be achieved without the need for complex computational models or existing GPS records. Our model can flexibly adjust its behavior to fit any application by carefully tuning and choosing the right values for its parameters.
A Benchmark of Popular Indoor 3D Reconstruction Technologies: Comparison of ARCore and RTAB-Map
Authors: Wolf Ádám , Troll Péter , Romeder-Finger Stefan , Archenti Andreas , Széll Károly , Galambos Péter
Published: December 2020

The fast evolution in computational and sensor technologies brings previously niche solutions to a wider userbase. As such, 3D reconstruction technologies are reaching new use-cases in scientific and everyday areas where they were not present before. Cost-effective and easy-to-use solutions include camera-based 3D scanning techniques, such as photogrammetry. This paper provides an overview of the available solutions and discusses in detail the depth-image based Real-time Appearance-based Mapping (RTAB-Map) technique as well as a smartphone-based solution that utilises ARCore, the Augmented Reality (AR) framework of Google. To qualitatively compare the two 3D reconstruction technologies, a simple length measurement-based method was applied with a purpose-designed reference object. The captured data were then analysed by a processing algorithm. In addition to the experimental results, specific case studies are briefly discussed, evaluating the applicability based on the capabilities of the technologies. As such, the paper presents the use-case of interior surveying in an automated laboratory as well as an example for using the discussed techniques for landmark surveying. The major findings are that point clouds created with these technologies provide a direction- and shape-accurate model, but those contain mesh continuity errors, and the estimated scale factor has a large standard deviation.
Effects of a Personalized Exercise Rehabilitation Device on Dynamic Postural Balance for Scoliotic Patients: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Jung Ji-Yong , Heo Min , Kim Jung-Ja
Published: December 2020

Scoliosis, which is defined as a 3-dimensional spine deformity, may be caused by new-onset degenerative changes that occur well after skeletal maturity and exhibit an asymmetrical postural balance pattern more common to adult deformity than adolescent scoliosis. The aim of this study was to verify whether an exercise program using a personalized exercise rehabilitation device can influence the dynamic postural balance of scoliotic patients. The personalized exercise rehabilitation device was designed to increase the efficacy of 3D postural correction for different curve patterns. 20 subjects were instructed to perform the personalized exercise program that consists of axial elongation, derotation, deflexion, facilitation and stabilization. The results of this study showed that the differences in clinical variables associated with imbalanced posture between the convex and concave side decreased after performing the personalized exercise. Consequentially, a well-designed and manufactured exercise rehabilitation device could be helpful for improving postural balance. Furthermore, the paper suggests that specific exercises using a personalized exercise rehabilitation device can provide the most appropriate exercise therapy and positively correct the asymmetrical postural balance patterns for scoliotic patients.
Fermentation as an Alternative Process for the Development of Bioinsecticides
Authors: Omarini Alejandra B. , Achimón Fernanda , Brito Vanessa D. , Zygadlo Julio A.
Published: December 2020

Currently, insect pest control is carried out through the application of synthetic insecticides which have been related to harmful effects on both human and environmental health, as well as to the development of resistant pest populations. In this context, the development of new and natural insecticides is necessary. Agricultural and forestry waste or by-products are very low-cost substrates that can be converted by microorganisms into useful value-added bioactive products through fermentation processes. In this review we discuss recent discoveries of compounds obtained from fermented substrates along with their insecticidal, antifeedant, and repellent activities. Fermentation products obtained from agricultural and forestry waste are described in detail. The fermentation of the pure secondary metabolite such as terpenes and phenols is also included.
Optical Characterisations of Bi-Phosphosilicate Fiber for O Band Amplification
Authors: Mansoor Amilia , Omar Nasr Y. M. , Dambul Katrina D. , Abdul-Rashid Hairul Azhar , Yusoff Zulfadzli
Published: December 2020

We report on the optical properties of Bi-doped phosphosilicate fiber. The fiber with a core and a clad diameter of 7.75 µm and 125 µm, respectively, is fabricated in-house using the modified chemical vapor deposition (MCVD) with in-situ solution doping technique. The spectroscopic properties of the fabricated fiber are characterized in terms of absorption, emission and lifetime. The lifetime decay is measured to be 800 µs; indicating a good potential optical amplification in the range of 1300 to 1500 nm. A Bismuth-doped fiber amplifier (BDFA) operating within the O-band region was successfully demonstrated. At 1340 nm, a 14.8 dB gain is achieved with 300 mW pumping power.
Experimental Data for the Validation of Numerical Methods: DrivAer Model
Authors: Varney Max , Passmore Martin , Wittmeier Felix , Kuthada Timo
Published: December 2020

As the automotive industry strives to increase the amount of digital engineering in the product development process, cut costs and improve time to market, the need for high quality validation data has become a pressing requirement. While there is a substantial body of experimental work published in the literature, it is rarely accompanied by access to the data and a sufficient description of the test conditions for a high quality validation study. This paper addresses this by reporting on a comprehensive series of measurements for a 25% scale model of the DrivAer automotive test case. The paper reports on the measurement of the forces and moments, pressures and off body PIV measurements for three rear end body configurations, and summarises and compares the results. A detailed description of the test conditions and wind tunnel set up are included along with access to the full data set.
Fermentation by Probiotic Lactobacillus gasseri Strains Enhances the Carotenoid and Fibre Contents of Carrot Juice
Authors: Xu Yue , Hlaing Mya Myintzu , Glagovskaia Olga , Augustin Mary Ann , Terefe Netsanet Shiferaw
Published: December 2020

Carrot juice (straight, 8.5 Brix and concentrated, 15.2 Brix) was fermented by lactic acid bacteria (Lactobacillus gasseri strain DSM 20604 or DSM 20077). Fermentation enhanced the nutritional profile of carrot juice. There was a greater sugar reduction (27%) in fermented straight carrot juices than in the fermented concentrated juices (15%). The sugar reduction was independent of the strain used for fermentation. The two L. gasseri strains synthesised fructosyltransferase enzymes during fermentation of carrot juice samples that enabled conversion of simple sugars primarily into polysaccharides. The level of conversion to polysaccharides was dependent on the L. gasseri strain and juice concentration. Fermentation of carrot juice by L. gasseri enables the production of a nutritionally-enhanced beverage with reduced calorie and prebiotic potential. An additional benefit is the increased carotenoid content observed in straight and concentrated juices fermented by Lactobacillus gasseri DSM 20077 and the concentrated juice fermented by Lactobacillus gasseri DSM 20604.
Extensive Chemometric Investigations of Distinctive Patterns and Levels of Biogenic Amines in Fermented Foods: Human Health Implications
Authors: Grootveld Martin , Percival Benita C. , Zhang Jie
Published: December 2020

Although biogenic amines (BAs) present in fermented foods exert important health-promoting and physiological function support roles, their excessive ingestion can give rise to deleterious toxicological effects. Therefore, here we have screened the BA contents and supporting food quality indices of a series of fermented food products using a multianalyte-chemometrics strategy. A liquid chromatographic triple quadrupole mass spectrometric (LC-MS/MS) technique was utilized for the simultaneous multicomponent analysis of 8 different BAs, and titratable acidity, pH, total lipid content, and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) values were also determined. Rigorous univariate and multivariate (MV) chemometric data analysis strategies were employed to evaluate results acquired. Almost all foods analyzed had individual and total BA contents that were within recommended limits. The chemometrics methods applied were useful for recognizing characteristic patterns of BA analytes and food quality measures between some fermented food classes, and for assessing their inter-relationships and potential metabolic sources. MV analysis of constant sum-normalized BA profile data demonstrated characteristic signatures for cheese (cadaverine only), fermented cod liver oil (2-phenylethylamine, tyramine, and tryptamine), and wine/vinegar products (putrescine, spermidine, and spermine). In conclusion, this LC-MS/MS-linked chemometrics approach was valuable for (1) contrasting and distinguishing BA catabolite signatures between differing fermented foods, and (2) exploring and evaluating the health benefits and/or possible adverse public health risks of such products.
Effect of Physical and Chemical Treatments on Viability, Sub-Lethal Injury, and Release of Cellular Components from Bacillus clausii and Bacillus coagulans Spores and Cells
Authors: Bevilacqua Antonio , Petruzzi Leonardo , Sinigaglia Milena , Speranza Barbara , Campaniello Daniela , Ciuffreda Emanuela , Corbo Maria Rosaria
Published: December 2020

Bacterial spores are of concern to the food industry due to their ability to survive processing and their potential to subsequently germinate and grow in food. In this paper, two strains belonging to the genus Bacillus (B. clausii DSM 8716 and B. coagulans DSM 1) were studied under in vitro conditions after the application of essential oils, and physical treatments; cells and spores’ susceptibility, the extent of sub-lethal injury and the release of cellular components as a function of treatment and targets (cells, spores, old or activated spores) were studied. The highest antimicrobial effect was found for cells treated through citrus extract, while both essential oils and physical treatments could cause a sub-lethal injury on the surviving cells and spores; in addition, the spores of B. coagulans released dipicolinic acid (DPA) and proteins. Sub-lethal injury should be considered when designing a food processing treatment, because injured microorganisms could either repair the damage or be inactivated with a different effect on microbial stability of foods.
A COL7A1 Variant in a Litter of Neonatal Basset Hounds with Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa
Authors: Garcia Teresa Maria , Kiener Sarah , Jagannathan Vidhya , Russell Duncan S. , Leeb Tosso
Published: December 2020

We investigated three neonatal Basset Hound littermates with lesions consistent with epidermolysis bullosa (EB), a group of genetic blistering diseases. A clinically normal bitch was bred to her grandfather by artificial insemination. Out of a litter of seven puppies, two affected puppies died and one was euthanized, with these puppies being submitted for diagnostic necropsy. All had multiple bullae and ulcers involving the nasal planum and paw pads, as well as sloughing claws; one puppy also had oral and esophageal ulcers. The complete genome of one affected puppy was sequenced, and 37 known EB candidate genes were assessed. We found a candidate causative variant in COL7A1, which encodes the collagen VII alpha 1 chain. The variant is a complex rearrangement involving duplication of a 107 bp region harboring a frameshift deletion of 7 bp. The variant is predicted to truncate more than 75% of the open reading frame, p.(Val677Serfs*11). Targeted genotyping of this duplication confirmed that all three affected puppies were homozygous for the duplication, whereas 12 unaffected Basset Hounds did not carry the duplication. This variant was also not seen in the genomes of more than 600 dogs of other breeds. COL7A1 variants have been identified in humans and dogs with dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (DEB). The identified COL7A1 variant therefore most likely represents the causative variant and allows the refinement of the preliminary EB diagnosis to DEB.
Special Issue “Disentangling Mechanisms of Genomic Regulation of Cell Functions at the Gene Level”
Authors: Binder Hans , Arakelyan Arsen
Published: December 2020

The term “gene” was introduced more than a hundred years ago to define a “fundamental physical and functional unit of heredity” [...]
Structural and Biochemical Features of Eimeria tenella Dihydroorotate Dehydrogenase, a Potential Drug Target
Authors: Sato Dan , Hartuti Endah Dwi , Inaoka Daniel Ken , Sakura Takaya , Amalia Eri , Nagahama Madoka , Yoshioka Yukina , Tsuji Naotoshi , Nozaki Tomoyoshi , Kita Kiyoshi , Harada Shigeharu , Matsubayashi Makoto , Shiba Tomoo
Published: December 2020

Dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH) is a mitochondrial monotopic membrane protein that plays an essential role in the pyrimidine de novo biosynthesis and electron transport chain pathways. In Eimeria tenella, an intracellular apicomplexan parasite that causes the most severe form of chicken coccidiosis, the activity of pyrimidine salvage pathway at the intracellular stage is negligible and it relies on the pyrimidine de novo biosynthesis pathway. Therefore, the enzymes of the de novo pathway are considered potential drug target candidates for the design of compounds with activity against this parasite. Although, DHODHs from E. tenella (EtDHODH), Plasmodium falciparum (PfDHODH), and human (HsDHODH) show distinct sensitivities to classical DHODH inhibitors, in this paper, we identify ferulenol as a potent inhibitor of both EtDHODH and HsDHODH. Additionally, we report the crystal structures of EtDHODH and HsDHODH in the absence and presence of ferulenol. Comparison of these enzymes showed that despite similar overall structures, the EtDHODH has a long insertion in the N-terminal helix region that assumes a disordered configuration. In addition, the crystal structures revealed that the ferulenol binding pocket of EtDHODH is larger than that of HsDHODH. These differences can be explored to accelerate structure-based design of inhibitors specifically targeting EtDHODH.
Heritability of Low ER Staining/HER2-Breast Tumors: Are We Missing an Opportunity for Germline Testing?
Authors: Lovejoy Leann A. , Turner Clesson E. , Wells Justin M. , Shriver Craig D. , Ellsworth Rachel E.
Published: December 2020

In 2010, the genetic testing criteria was changed to allow women diagnosed ≤ 60 years old with triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) to undergo germline testing. In the same year, estrogen receptor (ER) positivity was defined as having ≥1% ER staining cells. While tumors with 1–10% ER staining cells and HER2 negative (HER2-) status share characteristics with TNBC, the utility of germline testing in women with ER low positive/HER2- (ERLP/HER2-) tumors is not well-understood. To this end, all patients with hormone receptor positive staining cells ≤ 10% and negative HER2 status were identified. Clinical genetic test results were extracted for patients who underwent testing. Panel testing was performed for those women who had genomic DNA available for research purposes. ERLP/HER2-tumors constituted 2.7% of all tumors in the database. Patients did not differ significantly from those with TNBC by age at diagnosis, ethnicity, family history or tumor size, stage or grade (p > 0.05). Mutation frequency did not differ significantly (p = 0.757) between groups (ERLP/HER2- 16.1%; TNBC 16.7%). Hereditary forms of breast cancer were similar in both ERLP/HER2- and TNBC, thus current guidelines may result in the under testing of women with low ER tumors, resulting in missed opportunities to improve patient management.
Ureteral Stent and Percutaneous Nephrostomy in Managing Malignant Ureteric Obstruction of Gastrointestinal Origin: A 10 Years’ Experience
Authors: De Lorenzis Elisa , Lievore Elena , Turetti Matteo , Gallioli Andrea , Galassi Barbara , Boeri Luca , Montanari Emanuele
Published: December 2020

Background: Malignant ureteral obstruction (MUO) is variable in presentation and there is no consensus on its management, especially when caused by gastrointestinal (GI) malignancies. Our aim was to describe our experience with this oncological complication. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the outcomes of ureteral stent and nephrostomy tube (NT) positioning for GI-related MUO from 2010 to 2020. We performed descriptive analysis, survival analysis, and uni- and multi-variate analysis. Results: We included 51 patients. NT was mainly used when bladder involvement occurred and when MUO revealed an ex novo cancer diagnosis. Survival was poorer in patients with new diagnoses and in those receiving no treatment after decompression. Moreover, MUO caused by upper-GI tumors was related to shorter overall survival. Conclusions: GI tumors causing MUO should be considered of poor prognosis. Treatment decisions should be weighted accurately by both specialists and the patient.
Impact of Grafting on Watermelon Fruit Maturity and Quality
Authors: Devi Pinki , Perkins-Veazie Penelope , Miles Carol
Published: December 2020

Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) grafting has emerged as a promising biological management approach aimed at increasing tolerance to abiotic stressors, such as unfavorable environmental conditions. These conditions include environments that are too cold, wet, or dry, have soil nutrient deficiency or toxicity and soil or irrigation water salinity. Studies to date indicate that fruit yield and quality may be positively or negatively affected depending on rootstock-scion combination and growing environment. Growers need information regarding the general effect of rootstocks, as well as specific scion-rootstock interactions on fruit maturity and quality so they can select combinations best suited for their environment. This review summarizes the literature on watermelon grafting with a focus on abiotic stress tolerance and fruit maturity and quality with specific reference to hollow heart and hard seed formation, flesh firmness, total soluble solids, and lycopene content.
Importance of the Induced Recharge Term in Riverbank Filtration: Hydrodynamics, Hydrochemical, and Numerical Modelling Investigations
Authors: Rossetto Rudy , Barbagli Alessio , De Filippis Giovanna , Marchina Chiara , Vienken Thomas , Mazzanti Giorgio
Published: December 2020

While ensuring adequate drinking water supply is increasingly being a worldwide challenging need, managed aquifer recharge (MAR) schemes may provide reliable solutions in order to guarantee safe and continuous supply of water. This is particularly true in riverbank filtration (RBF) schemes. Several studies aimed at addressing the treatment capabilities of such schemes, but induced aquifer recharge hydrodynamics from surface water bodies caused by pumping wells is seldom analysed and quantified. In this study, after presenting a detailed description of the Serchio River RBF site, we used a multidisciplinary approach entailing hydrodynamics, hydrochemical, and numerical modelling methods in order to evaluate the change in recharge from the Serchio river to the aquifer due to the building of the RBF infrastructures along the Serchio river (Lucca, Italy). In this way, we estimated the increase in aquifer recharge and the ratio of bank filtrate to ambient groundwater abstracted at such RBF scheme. Results highlight that in present conditions the main source of the RBF pumping wells is the Serchio River water and that the groundwater at the Sant’Alessio plain is mainly characterized by mixing between precipitation occurring in the higher part of the plain and the River water. Based on chemical mixing, a precautionary amount of abstracted Serchio River water is estimated to be on average 13.6 Mm3/year, which is 85% of the total amount of water abstracted in a year (~16 Mm3). RBF is a worldwide recognized MAR technique for supplying good quality and reliable amount of water. As in several cases and countries the induced recharge component is not duly acknowledged, the authors suggest including the term “induced” in the definition of this type of MAR technique (to become then IRBF). Thus, clear reference may be made to the fact that the bank filtration is not completely due to natural recharge, as in many cases of surface water/groundwater interactions, but it may be partly/almost all human-made.
Monitoring Neuromuscular Performance in Military Personnel
Authors: Merrigan Justin J. , Stone Jason D. , Thompson Andrew G. , Hornsby W. Guy , Hagen Joshua A.
Published: December 2020

A necessarily high standard for physical readiness in tactical environments is often accompanied by high incidences of injury due to overaccumulations of neuromuscular fatigue (NMF). To account for instances of overtraining stimulated by NMF, close monitoring of neuromuscular performance is warranted. Previously validated tests, such as the countermovement jump, are useful means for monitoring performance adaptations, resiliency to fatigue, and risk for injury. Performing such tests on force plates provides an understanding of the movement strategy used to obtain the resulting outcome (e.g., jump height). Further, force plates afford numerous objective tests that are valid and reliable for monitoring upper and lower extremity muscular strength and power (thus sensitive to NMF) with less fatiguing and safer methods than traditional one-repetition maximum assessments. Force plates provide numerous software and testing application options that can be applied to military’s training but, to be effective, requires the practitioners to have sufficient knowledge of their functions. Therefore, this review aims to explain the functions of force plate testing as well as current best practices for utilizing force plates in military settings and disseminate protocols for valid and reliable testing to collect key variables that translate to physical performance capacities.
Initiator or Intermediary? A Case Study on Network Relation of Environmental Regulatory Capture in China
Authors: Tu Yu , Peng Benhong , Elahi Ehsan , Wu Weiku
Published: December 2020

Behind the environmental regulatory capture (ERC) lies a complex network of interactions and interests. Identifying the roles of stakeholders in the ERC network and their behavioral motives can illuminate the mechanism of ERC incidents, and provide policy recommendations for reducing other types of regulatory capture. Drawing on the regulatory capture and principal-agent theories, this study develops a triple-layer principal-agent model of environmental regulation practices in China. We further conduct a social network analysis (SNA) on the ERC case in the Environmental Protection Bureau (EPB) of Bobai County, Guangxi Province, China to illustrate the hidden interactions and interest transmission structure among stakeholders in ERC. The results show that the ERC presents obvious characteristics of concealment and complexity, and individual capture often evolves into collective capture. Different stakeholders are in different positions and play different roles in the network. The environmental regulatory authority, the commissioned regulatory agency, and the agency of enterprises form the core power circle of the ERC network, in which the first two play the role of intermediary and the latter acts as an initiator. They together occupy the structural hole position and dominate the evolution of the ERC network. Peripheral structure stakeholders play the role of “bridge” and profit from the expanding ERC network. It is recommended that the principle of decentralization and the balance of power must be taken into consideration. Quantitative analysis methods such as SNA should be applied to clarify accountability when punishing responsible persons. More subjects are also encouraged to participate in environmental regulations and report illegal acts actively. Finally, a blacklist system should be established in the field of environmental protection for regulating the professional and social morality of all parties.
Factorial Validity and Variance of the Maslach Burnout Inventory between Demographic and Workload Groups among Dentists of Lithuania
Authors: Slabšinskienė Eglė , Gorelik Andrej , Vasiliauskienė Ingrida , Kavaliauskienė Aistė , Zaborskis Apolinaras
Published: December 2020

There is a lack of evidence about burnout syndrome among Lithuanian dentists; as a reliable instrument to examine the syndrome in this professional group has not yet been tested. The study aimed to investigate the performance of the items and the subscales of the Maslach burnout inventory (MBI) by validating its factorial structure and analyzing its variance between demographic and workload groups of dental professionals in Lithuania. The survey was conducted among practicing dentists online or during the scientific conferences for dentists using an anonymous questionnaire. To evaluate the level of burnout the MBI was chosen. Reports of a total of 380 respondents were examined. Three-factor structure of the MBI with cross-loading of two items suggested a good fit to data (χ2/df = 1.67; CFI = 0.93; TLI = 0.93; IFI = 0.93; and RMSEA = 0.059) and was invariant across demographic and workload groups of dentists. Multigroup factorial analysis revealed that females as compared to males had higher average emotional exhaustion; and the respondents up to 30 years as compared to respondents over 30 years of age had higher averages of the emotional exhaustion and depersonalization components. Highly specialized dentists (oral surgeons, prosthodontists, orthodontists, endodontists and poedodontists) were particularly less prone to burnout syndrome than dentists of general practice. It was concluded that the MBI offers factorial validity and demonstrates its invariant structure and variance of burnout dimensions across demographic and workload groups. These findings are informative for burnout prevention and intervention programs among dentists in Lithuania. Such information may contribute to lessen professional burnout among dentists in Lithuania.