bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Image-Based Gimbal Control in a Drone for Centering Photovoltaic Modules in a Thermal Image
Authors: Park Hyun-Cheol , Lee Sang-Woong , Jeong Heon
Published: July 2020

Recently, there have been many types of research applying drones with a thermal camera to detect deteriorations in photovoltaic (PV) modules. A thermal camera can measure temperatures on the surface of PV modules and find the deteriorated area. However, a thermal camera generally has a lower resolution than a visible camera because of the limitations of cost. Due to different resolutions between the visible and thermal cameras, there are often invalid frames from a thermal camera. In this paper, we describe a gimbal controller with a real-time image processing algorithm to control the angle of the camera to position the region of interest (ROI) in the center of target PV modules to solve this problem. We derived the horizontal angle and vertical position of ROI in visible images using image processing algorithms such as the Hough transform. These values are converted into a PID control signal for controlling the gimbal. This process makes the thermal camera capture the effective area of target PV modules. Finally, experimental results showed that the photovoltaic module’s control area was properly located at the center of the thermal image.
Performance Study of Direct Integration of Phase Change Material into an Innovative Evaporator of a Simple Vapour Compression System
Authors: Mselle Boniface Dominick , Vérez David , Zsembinszki Gabriel , Borri Emiliano , Cabeza Luisa F.
Published: July 2020

This paper experimentally investigates the direct integration of 3.15 kg of phase change materials (PCM) into a standard vapour compression system of variable cooling capacity, through an innovative lab-scale refrigerant-PCM-water heat exchanger (RPW-HEX), replacing the conventional evaporator. Its performance was studied in three operating modes: charging, discharging, and direct heat transfer between the three fluids. In the charging mode, a maximum energy of 300 kJ can be stored in the PCM for the cooling capacity at 30% of the maximum value. By doubling the cooling power, the duration of charging is reduced by 50%, while the energy stored is only reduced by 13%. In the discharging mode, the process duration is reduced from 25 min to 9 min by increasing the heat transfer fluid (HTF) flow rate from 50 L·h−1 to 150 L·h−1. In the direct heat transfer mode, the energy stored in the PCM depends on both the cooling power and the HTF flow rate, and can vary from 220 kJ for a cooling power at 30% and HTF flow rate of 50 L·h−1 to 4 kJ for a compressor power at 15% and a HTF flow rate of 150 L·h−1. The novel heat exchanger is a feasible solution to implement latent energy storage in vapour compression systems resulting to a compact and less complex system.
Interferometric Study of the Heat Transfer Phenomena Induced by Rapid Heating of Nickel Sheet
Authors: Seo Hyeon-Seok , Hwang In-Ju , Kim Youn-Jea
Published: July 2020

Visualization of the heat transfer phenomena induced by the rapid heating of nickel sheets was carried out using a Mach–Zehnder interferometer (MZI) and a high-speed camera. This phenomenon may be an important factor in heat transfer phenomena when the working fluids reach the thermodynamic critical point. The effect of heat transfer on the heating conditions of a nickel sheet was quantified by finite fringe analysis. The results show that isotherms near the heating surface with rapid heating are generated, and the induced isotherms are moved upward with similar patterns for different heating conditions. In addition, it is confirmed that the local Nusselt number decreases to the relationship of a secondary function if the thickness of the metal specimen is very thin and the time to reach the highest temperature is very short. Moreover, it decreased according to the increase of heating energy because the heat transfer mainly occurred by conduction and radiation rather than by convection, because the expansive force and compressive force between the fluid layers on the wall increased due to an increase in the heating energy in the beginning.
Visual Workflow Process Modeling and Simulation Approach Based on Non-Functional Properties of Resources
Authors: Ougaabal Kawtar , Zacharewicz Gregory , Ducq Yves , Tazi Said
Published: July 2020

With the emergence of big data and cloud technologies, companies now evolve in complex IT environments. This situation requires good practices for data process automation to be adopted to ensure system interoperability. Visual computing helps companies to describe and organize the ways in which information systems, devices, and people must interact. It incorporates a number of fields including modeling and simulation (M&S). This paper focused on M&S of data workflow processes that are key steps to bridging the gap between business views and goals on the one side, and operational implementations on the other side. Simulation adds a dynamic view to static modeling; it increases understanding of the behavior of process mechanisms and the identification of weak areas in data flow. Several research projects have been focused on control flow and data flow, but less attention has been paid to resource characteristics. This work is based on the MDSEA approach and the eBPMN language, and proposes an approach that aims to distinguish the types of resources carrying out process tasks. Furthermore, it introduces a new composite resource made from the relationship between a user (human resource) and a task form (IT resource). Moreover, it proposes a resource aggregation based on process performance combination in order to run and display a global performance measurement of a process path.
A First Insight into North American Plant Pathogenic Fungi Armillaria sinapina Transcriptome
Authors: Fradj Narimene , de Montigny Nicolas , Mérindol Natacha , Awwad Fatima , Boumghar Yacine , Germain Hugo , Desgagné-Penix Isabel
Published: July 2020

Armillaria sinapina, a fungal pathogen of primary timber species of North American forests, causes white root rot disease that ultimately kills the trees. A more detailed understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying this illness will support future developments on disease resistance and management, as well as in the decomposition of cellulosic material for further use. In this study, RNA-Seq technology was used to compare the transcriptome profiles of A. sinapina fungal culture grown in yeast malt broth medium supplemented or not with betulin, a natural compound of the terpenoid group found in abundance in white birch bark. This was done to identify enzyme transcripts involved in the metabolism (redox reaction) of betulin into betulinic acid, a potent anticancer drug. De novo assembly and characterization of A. sinapina transcriptome was performed using Illumina technology. A total of 170,592,464 reads were generated, then 273,561 transcripts were characterized. Approximately, 53% of transcripts could be identified using public databases with several metabolic pathways represented. A total of 11 transcripts involved in terpenoid biosynthesis were identified. In addition, 25 gene transcripts that could play a significant role in lignin degradation were uncovered, as well as several redox enzymes of the cytochromes P450 family. To our knowledge, this research is the first transcriptomic study carried out on A. sinapina.
The Importance of Protein Phosphorylation for Signaling and Metabolism in Response to Diel Light Cycling and Nutrient Availability in a Marine Diatom
Authors: Tan Maxine H. , Smith Sarah R. , Hixson Kim K. , Tan Justin , McCarthy James K. , Kustka Adam B. , Allen Andrew E.
Published: July 2020

Diatoms are major contributors to global primary production and their populations in the modern oceans are affected by availability of iron, nitrogen, phosphate, silica, and other trace metals, vitamins, and infochemicals. However, little is known about the role of phosphorylation in diatoms and its role in regulation and signaling. We report a total of 2759 phosphorylation sites on 1502 proteins detected in Phaeodactylum tricornutum. Conditionally phosphorylated peptides were detected at low iron (n = 108), during the diel cycle (n = 149), and due to nitrogen availability (n = 137). Through a multi-omic comparison of transcript, protein, phosphorylation, and protein homology, we identify numerous proteins and key cellular processes that are likely under control of phospho-regulation. We show that phosphorylation regulates: (1) carbon retrenchment and reallocation during growth under low iron, (2) carbon flux towards lipid biosynthesis after the lights turn on, (3) coordination of transcription and translation over the diel cycle and (4) in response to nitrogen depletion. We also uncover phosphorylation sites for proteins that play major roles in diatom Fe sensing and utilization, including flavodoxin and phytotransferrin (ISIP2A), as well as identify phospho-regulated stress proteins and kinases. These findings provide much needed insight into the roles of protein phosphorylation in diel cycling and nutrient sensing in diatoms.
Hydrogen Sulfide Alleviates Anxiety, Motor, and Cognitive Dysfunctions in Rats with Maternal Hyperhomocysteinemia via Mitigation of Oxidative Stress
Authors: Yakovleva Olga , Bogatova Ksenia , Mukhtarova Renata , Yakovlev Aleksey , Shakhmatova Viktoria , Gerasimova Elena , Ziyatdinova Guzel , Hermann Anton , Sitdikova Guzel
Published: July 2020

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is endogenously produced from sulfur containing amino acids, including homocysteine and exerts neuroprotective effects. An increase of homocysteine during pregnancy impairs fetal growth and development of the offspring due to severe oxidative stress. We analyzed the effects of the H2S donor—sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS) administered to female rats with hyperhomocysteinemia (hHcy) on behavioral impairments and levels of oxidative stress of their offspring. Rats born from females fed with control or high methionine diet, with or without H2S donor injections were investigated. Rats with maternal hHcy exhibit increased levels of total locomotor activity and anxiety, decreased muscle endurance and motor coordination, abnormalities of fine motor control, as well as reduced spatial memory and learning. Oxidative stress in brain tissues measured by activity of glutathione peroxidases and the level of malondialdehyde was higher in rats with maternal hHcy. Concentrations of H2S and the activity and expression of the H2S generating enzyme—cystathionine-beta synthase—were lower compared to the control group. Administration of the H2S donor to females with hHcy during pregnancy prevented behavioral alterations and oxidative stress of their offspring. The acquisition of behavioral together with biochemical studies will add to our knowledge about homocysteine neurotoxicity and proposes H2S as a potential agent for therapy of hHcy associated disorders.
UPF1-Mediated RNA Decay—Danse Macabre in a Cloud
Authors: Lavysh Daria , Neu-Yilik Gabriele
Published: July 2020

Nonsense-mediated RNA decay (NMD) is the prototype example of a whole family of RNA decay pathways that unfold around a common central effector protein called UPF1. While NMD in yeast appears to be a linear pathway, NMD in higher eukaryotes is a multifaceted phenomenon with high variability with respect to substrate RNAs, degradation efficiency, effector proteins and decay-triggering RNA features. Despite increasing knowledge of the mechanistic details, it seems ever more difficult to define NMD and to clearly distinguish it from a growing list of other UPF1-mediated RNA decay pathways (UMDs). With a focus on mammalian NMD, we here critically examine the prevailing NMD models and the gaps and inconsistencies in these models. By exploring the minimal requirements for NMD and other UMDs, we try to elucidate whether they are separate and definable pathways, or rather variations of the same phenomenon. Finally, we suggest that the operating principle of the UPF1-mediated decay family could be considered similar to that of a computing cloud providing a flexible infrastructure with rapid elasticity and dynamic access according to specific user needs.
Albendazole-Schisandrin B Co-Therapy on Angiostrongylus cantonensis-Induced Meningoencephalitis in Mice
Authors: Lam Ho Yin Pekkle , Liang Ting-Ruei , Jiang Shinn-Jong , Peng Shih-Yi
Published: July 2020

Currently, Angiostrongylus cantonensis infections are predominantly treated with albendazole. However, the use of albendazole can provoke certain neurological symptoms as a result of the immune response triggered by the dead worms. Therefore, treatment usually involves co-administration of corticosteroids to limit the inflammatory reaction. Corticosteroids play a useful role in suppressing inflammation in the brain; however, long-term usage or high dosage may make it problematic.Schisandrin B, an active ingredient from Schisandra chinensis, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects on the brain. This study aimed to investigate the effects and potential of schisandrin B in combination with albendazole to treat Angiostrongylus-induced meningoencephalitis. Here, we show that albendazole-schisandrin B co-treatment suppressed neuroinflammation in Angiostrongylus-infected mice and increased the survival of the mice. Accordingly, albendazole-schisandrin B co-treatment significantly inhibited inflammasome activation, pyroptosis, and apoptosis. The sensorimotor functions of the mice were also repaired after albendazole-schisandrin B treatment. Immune response was shown to shift from Th2 to Th1, which reduces inflammation and enhances immunity against A. cantonensis. Collectively, our study showed that albendazole-schisandrin B co-therapy may be used as an encouraging treatment for Angiostrongylus-induced meningoencephalitis.
JAK-Inhibitors for the Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Focus on the Present and an Outlook on the Future
Authors: Angelini Jacopo , Talotta Rossella , Roncato Rossana , Fornasier Giulia , Barbiero Giorgia , Dal Cin Lisa , Brancati Serena , Scaglione Francesco
Published: July 2020

Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKi) belong to a new class of oral targeted disease-modifying drugs which have recently revolutionized the therapeutic panorama of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and other immune-mediated diseases, placing alongside or even replacing conventional and biological drugs. JAKi are characterized by a novel mechanism of action, consisting of the intracellular interruption of the JAK-STAT pathway crucially involved in the immune response. The aim of this narrative review is to globally report the most relevant pharmacological features and clinical outcomes of the developed and incoming JAKi for RA, based on the available preclinical and clinical evidence. A total of 219 papers, including narrative and systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), observational studies, case reports, guidelines, and drug factsheets, were selected. The efficacy and safety profile of both the first generation JAKi (baricitinib and tofacitinib) and the second generation JAKi (upadacitinib, filgotinib, peficitinib, decernotinib and itacitinib) were compared and discussed. Results from RCTs and real-life data are encouraging and outline a rapid onset of the pharmacologic effects, which are maintained during the time. Their efficacy and safety profile are comparable or superior to those of biologic agents and JAKi proved to be efficacious when given as monotherapy. Finally, the manufacturing of JAKi is relatively easier and cheaper than that of biologics, thus increasing the number of compounds being formulated and tested for clinical use.
Aldose Reductase Differential Inhibitors in Green Tea
Authors: Balestri Francesco , Poli Giulio , Pineschi Carlotta , Moschini Roberta , Cappiello Mario , Mura Umberto , Tuccinardi Tiziano , Del Corso Antonella
Published: July 2020

Aldose reductase (AKR1B1), the first enzyme in the polyol pathway, is likely involved in the onset of diabetic complications. Differential inhibition of AKR1B1 has been proposed to counteract the damaging effects linked to the activity of the enzyme while preserving its detoxifying ability. Here, we show that epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), one of the most representative catechins present in green tea, acts as a differential inhibitor of human recombinant AKR1B1. A kinetic analysis of EGCG, and of its components, gallic acid (GA) and epigallocatechin (EGC) as inhibitors of the reduction of L-idose, 4-hydroxy2,3-nonenal (HNE), and 3-glutathionyl l-4-dihydroxynonanal (GSHNE) revealed for the compounds a different model of inhibition toward the different substrates. While EGCG preferentially inhibited L-idose and GSHNE reduction with respect to HNE, gallic acid, which was still active in inhibiting the reduction of the sugar, was less active in inhibiting HNE and GSHNE reduction. EGC was found to be less efficient as an inhibitor of AKR1B1 and devoid of any differential inhibitory action. A computational study defined different interactive modes for the three substrates on the AKR1B1 active site and suggested a rationale for the observed differential inhibition. A chromatographic fractionation of an alcoholic green tea extract revealed that, besides EGCG and GA, other components may exhibit the differential inhibition of AKR1B1.
Myxovirus Resistance Protein 1 (MX1), a Novel HO-1 Interactor, Tilts the Balance of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress towards Pro-Death Events in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Ortiz Emiliano , Sanchis Pablo , Bizzotto Juan , Lage-Vickers Sofia , Labanca Estefania , Navone Nora , Cotignola Javier , Vazquez Elba , Gueron Geraldine
Published: July 2020

The inflammatory tumor microenvironment is a fertile niche accelerating prostate cancer (PCa). We have reported that heme-oxygenase (HO-1) had a strong anti-tumoral effect in PCa. We previously undertook an in-depth proteomics study to build the HO-1 interactome in PCa. In this work, we used a bioinformatics approach to address the biological significance of HO-1 interactors. Open-access PCa datasets were mined to address the clinical significance of the HO-1 interactome in human samples. HO-1 interactors were clustered into groups according to their expression profile in PCa patients. We focused on the myxovirus resistance gene (MX1) as: (1) it was significantly upregulated under HO-1 induction; (2) it was the most consistently downregulated gene in PCa vs. normal prostate; (3) its loss was associated with decreased relapse-free survival in PCa; and (4) there was a significant positive correlation between MX1 and HMOX1 in PCa patients. Further, MX1 was upregulated in response to endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS), and this stress triggered apoptosis and autophagy in PCa cells. Strikingly, MX1 silencing reversed ERS. Altogether, we showcase MX1 as a novel HO-1 interactor and downstream target, associated with ERS in PCa and having a high impact in the clinical setting.
The New Proactive Approach and Precision Medicine in Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Zittan Eran , Gralnek Ian M. , Berns Marc S.
Published: July 2020

The proactive approach to Crohn’s disease (CD) management advocates moving toward algorithmic tight-control scenarios that are designed for each CD phenotype to guide remission induction, maintenance therapy, active monitoring, and multidisciplinary care to manage the complexities of each inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patient. This requires accurate initial clinical, laboratory, radiological, endoscopic, and/or tissue diagnosis for proper phenotypic stratification of each CD patient. A substantial proportion of patients in symptomatic remission have been reported to demonstrate evidence of active disease, with elevated fecal calprotectin(FC) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels as a hallmark for mucosal inflammation. Active mucosal inflammation, and elevated CRP and fecal calprotectin (FC) have been shown to be good predictors of clinical relapse, disease progression, and complications in IBD patients. The next frontier of treatment is personalized medicine or precision medicine to help solve the problem of IBD heterogeneity and variable responses to treatment. Personalized medicine has the potential to increase the efficacy and/or reduce potential adverse effects of treatment for each CD phenotype. However, there is currently an unmet need for better elucidation of the inflammatory biopathways and genetic signatures of each IBD phenotype, so personalized medicine can specifically target the underlying cause of the disease and provide maximal efficacy to each patient.
Comorbid Anxiety Increases Suicidal Risk in Bipolar Depression: Analysis of 9720 Adolescent Inpatients
Authors: Amuk Ozge Ceren , Patel Rikinkumar S.
Published: July 2020

Objective: To evaluate the risk of association between suicidal behaviors and comorbid anxiety disorders in adolescents with bipolar depression. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study using the nationwide inpatient sample (NIS) from the United States. This study included 9720 adolescent inpatients with bipolar depression and further grouped by co-diagnosis of anxiety disorders. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the odds ratio (OR) of suicidal behaviors due to comorbid anxiety after controlling demographic confounders and psychiatric comorbidities. Results: Out of total inpatients, 34.8% (n = 3385) had comorbid anxiety disorders with a predominance in females (70.3%) and White patients (67.7%). About 54.1% of inpatients with comorbid anxiety had suicidal behaviors versus 44.6% in the non-anxiety cohort (p < 0.001). Comorbid anxiety disorders were associated with 1.35 times higher odds (95% CI 1.23–1.47, p < 0.001) for suicidal behaviors. Conclusion: Suicidal behaviors are significantly prevalent in bipolar depression adolescents with comorbid anxiety disorders. Anxiety disorders are an independent risk factor in bipolar depression that increase the risk of suicidal behaviors by 35%. This necessitates careful assessment and management of comorbid anxiety disorders in bipolar youth to mitigate suicidality.
Communication Adjustment in Engineering Professional and Student Project Meetings
Authors: Nestsiarovich Kristina , Pons Dirk , Becker Sid
Published: July 2020

Background: communication is important for project teams. There is a need to better understand how members respond to communication at project meetings, and how this affects the team roles the participants adopt. Methods: observational data were collected from (a) two engineering organisations and (b) five university engineering student teams. A mixed methods approach was used, comprising observations (recorded with the interaction diagram method), questionnaires and interviews. Results: participants adjusted their communication style to the behaviour of other people and to different communication settings. This happened with three different dynamics: micro-level (grounding processes in conversation), mezzo-level (emotional and rational regulation) and macro-level (over a period of time). Originality: a new theory was presented for the process of team behaviour during project meetings; specifically, role adoption and communication behavioural changes. Participants change their team roles within three different dynamics: at the macro-, mezzo- and micro-levels, corresponding to the organisation, project and meeting, respectively. The changing of team roles in project meetings arises from rational and emotional regulation. The findings have the potential to assist managers and supervisors to better understand and manage the team dynamics on their projects.
Cell-Mediated Release of Nanoparticles as a Preferential Option for Future Treatment of Melanoma
Authors: Chillà Anastasia , Margheri Francesca , Biagioni Alessio , Del Rosso Tommaso , Fibbi Gabriella , Del Rosso Mario , Laurenzana Anna
Published: July 2020

Targeted and immune therapies have unquestionably improved the prognosis of melanoma patients. However the treatment of this neoplasm still requires approaches with a higher therapeutic index, in order to reduce shortcomings related to toxic effects and aspecific targeting. This means developing therapeutic tools derived with high affinity molecules for tumor components differentially expressed in melanoma cells with respect to their normal counterpart. Nanomedicine has sought to address this problem owing to the high modulability of nanoparticles. This approach exploits not only the enhanced permeability and retention effect typical of the tumor microenvironment (passive targeting), but also the use of specific “molecular antennas” that recognize some tumor-overexpressed molecules (active targeting). This line of research has given rise to the so-called “smart nanoparticles,” some of which have already passed the preclinical phase and are under clinical trials in melanoma patients. To further improve nanoparticles partition within tumors, for some years now a line of thought is exploiting the molecular systems that regulate the innate tumor-homing activity of platelets, granulocytes, monocytes/macrophages, stem cells, endothelial-colony-forming cells, and red blood cells loaded with nanoparticles. This new vision springs from the results obtained with some of these cells in regenerative medicine, an approach called “cell therapy.” This review takes into consideration the advantages of cell therapy as the only one capable of overcoming the limits of targeting imposed by the increased interstitial pressure of tumors.
Characteristics and Outcome of Children with Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Narrative Review
Authors: van der Beek Justine N. , Geller James I. , de Krijger Ronald R. , Graf Norbert , Pritchard-Jones Kathy , Drost Jarno , Verschuur Arnauld C. , Murphy Dermot , Ray Satyajit , Spreafico Filippo , Dzhuma Kristina , Littooij Annemieke S. , Selle Barbara , Tytgat Godelieve A. M. , van den Heuvel-Eibrink Marry M.
Published: July 2020

Pediatric renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is a rare type of kidney cancer, most commonly occurring in teenagers and young adolescents. Few relatively large series of pediatric RCC have been reported. Knowledge of clinical characteristics, outcome and treatment strategies are often based on the more frequently occurring adult types of RCC. However, published pediatric data suggest that clinical, molecular and histological characteristics of pediatric RCC differ from adult RCC. This paper summarizes reported series consisting of ≥10 RCC pediatric patients in order to create an up-to-date overview of the clinical and histopathological characteristics, treatment and outcome of pediatric RCC patients.
Immunohistochemistry-Based Taxonomical Classification of Bladder Cancer Predicts Response to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy
Authors: Font Albert , Domènech Montserrat , Benítez Raquel , Rava Marta , Marqués Miriam , Ramírez José L. , Pineda Silvia , Domínguez-Rodríguez Sara , Gago José L. , Badal Josep , Carrato Cristina , López Héctor , Quer Ariadna , Castellano Daniel , Malats Núria , Real Francisco X.
Published: July 2020

Background: Platinum-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) increases the survival of patients with organ-confined urothelial bladder cancer (UBC). In retrospective studies, patients with basal/squamous (BASQ)-like tumors present with more advanced disease and have worse prognosis. Transcriptomics-defined tumor subtypes are associated with response to NAC. Aim: To investigate whether immunohistochemical (IHC) subtyping predicts NAC response. Methods: Patients with muscle-invasive UBC having received platinum-based NAC were identified. Tissue microarrays were used to type tumors for KRT5/6, KRT14, GATA3, and FOXA1. Outcomes: progression-free survival and disease-specific survival; univariable and multivariate Cox regression models were applied. Results: We found a very high concordance between mRNA and protein expression. Using IHC-based hierarchical clustering, we classified 126 tumors in three subgroups: BASQ-like (FOXA1/GATA3 low; KRT5/6/14 high), Luminal-like (FOXA1/GATA3 high; KRT5/6/14 low), and mixed-cluster (FOXA1/GATA3 high; KRT5/6 high; KRT14 low). Applying multivariable analyses, patients with BASQ-like tumors were more likely to achieve a pathological response to NAC (OR 3.96; p = 0.017). The clinical benefit appeared reflected in the lack of significant survival differences between patients with BASQ-like and luminal tumors. Conclusions: Patients with BASQ-like tumors—identified through simple and robust IHC—have a higher likelihood of undergoing a pathological complete response to NAC. Prospective validation is required.
Intercellular Mitochondrial Transfer in the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Sahinbegovic Hana , Jelinek Tomas , Hrdinka Matous , Bago Juli R. , Turi Marcello , Sevcikova Tereza , Kurtovic-Kozaric Amina , Hajek Roman , Simicek Michal
Published: July 2020

Cell-to-cell communication is a fundamental process in every multicellular organism. In addition to membrane-bound and released factors, the sharing of cytosolic components represents a new, poorly explored signaling route. An extraordinary example of this communication channel is the direct transport of mitochondria between cells. In this review, we discuss how intercellular mitochondrial transfer can be used by cancer cells to sustain their high metabolic requirements and promote drug resistance and describe relevant molecular players in the context of current and future cancer therapy.
Components of the Lectin Pathway of Complement in Haematologic Malignancies
Authors: Cedzyński Maciej , Świerzko Anna S.
Published: July 2020

The complement system is activated cascadically via three distinct major routes: classical pathway (CP), alternative pathway (AP) or lectin pathway (LP). The unique factors associated with the latter are collectins (mannose-binding lectin, collectin-10, collectin-11), ficolins (ficolin-1, ficolin-2, ficolin-3) and proteins of the mannose-binding lectin-associated serine protease (MASP) family (MASP-1, MASP-2, MASP-3, MAp19, MAp44). Collectins and ficolins are both pattern-recognising molecules (PRM), reactive against pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMP) or danger-associated molecular patterns (DAMP). The MASP family proteins were first discovered as complexes with mannose-binding lectin (MBL) and therefore named MBL-associated serine proteases, but later, they were found to interact with ficolins, and later still, collectin-10 and collectin-11. As well as proteolytic enzymes (MASP-1, MASP-2, MASP-3), the group includes non-enzymatic factors (MAp19, MAp44). In this review, the association-specific factors of the lectin pathway with haematologic malignancies and related infections are discussed.
The Lipase/Amylase Ratio (LAR) in Peripheral Blood Might Represent a Novel Prognostic Marker in Patients with Surgically Resectable Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Stotz Michael , Barth Dominik A. , Riedl Jakob M. , Asamer Eva , Klocker Eva V. , Kornprat Peter , Hutterer Georg C. , Prinz Felix , Lackner Karoline , Stöger Herbert , Gerger Armin , Pichler Martin
Published: July 2020

Pancreatic enzymes might play a pivotal role in the pathophysiology and prognosis of pancreatic cancer. The aim of this study is to investigate the lipase/amylase ratio (LAR), representing a marker previously used in the differentiation of pancreatitis, as a potential prognostic marker in pancreatic cancer. Data from 157 surgically treated patients with ductal pancreatic adenocarcinoma and 351 patients with metastatic disease were evaluated retrospectively. Cancer-specific survival (CSS) was considered the endpoint of the study. After applying Kaplan–Meier curve analysis, uni- and multivariate Cox regression models were calculated to evaluate the prognostic relevance of LAR. An elevated LAR at diagnosis of localized pancreatic cancer was significantly associated with higher CA19-9 levels (p < 0.05). In univariate analysis, we observed an increased LAR as a significant factor for lower CSS in localized pancreatic cancer patients (HR = 1.63; 95% CI = 1.12–2.36; p = 0.01), but not in metastatic patients (HR = 1.12; 95% CI = 0.87–1.43; p = 0.363). In multivariate analysis, including age, gender, tumor stage, Karnofsky Performance Status, tumor grade, administration of chemotherapy and the LAR, an increased LAR was confirmed to represent an independent prognostic factor regarding CSS (HR = 1.81; 95% CI = 1.17–2.77; p = 0.007) in localized pancreatic cancer patients. In conclusion, our study identified the LAR as an independent prognostic factor in surgically treated pancreatic cancer patients.
Role of Curcumin and (−)-Epigallocatechin-3-O-Gallate in Bladder Cancer Treatment: A Review
Authors: Piwowarczyk Ludwika , Stawny Maciej , Mlynarczyk Dariusz T. , Muszalska-Kolos Izabela , Goslinski Tomasz , Jelińska Anna
Published: July 2020

The incidence of bladder cancer (BC) is increasing, and although current therapeutic approaches are effective in many cases, recurrence of BC is common. Therefore, it seems necessary to search not only for novel therapeutic approaches, but also for new therapeutic agents. Natural polyphenols, such as curcumin (CUR) and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), possess remarkable antitumor activity. Their biochemical mechanisms of action include regulation of signaling pathways, modeling of proteins involved in apoptosis and cell cycle inhibition, angiogenesis, and the proliferation, migration and adhesion of tumor cells. Both compounds also present antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiviral properties. CUR has been considered a promising candidate for the treatment of cystic fibrosis, Alzheimer’s disease or malaria, whereas EGCG can play a supportive role in the treatment of obesity, metabolic and neurodegenerative diseases. The review summarizes the latest research on the role of CUR and EGCG in the treatment of BC. In particular, the effects of CUR and EGCG, and their prospects for use in BC therapy, their inhibition of cancer development and their prevention of multidrug resistance, are described. The literature’s data indicate the possibility of achieving the effect of synergism of both polyphenols in BC therapy, which has been observed so far in the treatment of ovarian, breast and prostate cancer.
Identification of GSN and LAMC2 as Key Prognostic Genes of Bladder Cancer by Integrated Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Yang Jia-Lian , Wang Charles C. N. , Cai Jia-Hua , Chou Che-Yi , Lin Yu-Chao , Hung Chin-Chuan
Published: July 2020

Bladder cancer is a common malignancy with mechanisms of pathogenesis and progression. This study aimed to identify the prognostic hub genes, which are the central modulators to regulate the progression and proliferation in the specific subtype of bladder cancer. The identification of the candidate hub gene was performed by weighted gene co-expression network analysis to construct a free-scale gene co-expression network. The gene expression profile of GSE97768 from the Gene Expression Omnibus database was used. The association between prognosis and hub gene was evaluated by The Cancer Genome Atlas database. Four gene-expression modules were significantly related to bladder cancer disease: the red module (human adenocarcinoma lymph node metastasis), the darkturquioise module (grade 2 carcinoma), the lightgreen module (grade 3 carcinoma), and the royalblue module (transitional cell carcinoma lymphatic metastasis). Based on betweenness centrality and survival analysis, we identified laminin subunit gamma-2 (LAMC2) in the grade 2 carcinoma, gelsolin (GSN) in the grade 3 carcinoma, and homeodomain-interacting protein kinase 2 (HIPK2) in the transitional cell carcinoma lymphatic metastasis. Subsequently, the protein levels of LAMC2 and GSN were respectively down-regulated and up-regulated in tumor tissue with the Human Protein Atlas (HPA) database. Our results suggested that LAMC2 and GSN are the central modulators to transfer information in the specific subtype of the disease.
Human Prostate Cancer Is Characterized by an Increase in Urea Cycle Metabolites
Authors: Franko Andras , Shao Yaping , Heni Martin , Hennenlotter Jörg , Hoene Miriam , Hu Chunxiu , Liu Xinyu , Zhao Xinjie , Wang Qingqing , Birkenfeld Andreas L. , Todenhöfer Tilman , Stenzl Arnulf , Peter Andreas , Häring Hans-Ulrich , Lehmann Rainer , Xu Guowang , Lutz Stefan Z.
Published: July 2020

Despite it being the most common incident of cancer among men, the pathophysiological mechanisms contributing to prostate cancer (PCa) are still poorly understood. Altered mitochondrial metabolism is postulated to play a role in the development of PCa. To determine the key metabolites (which included mitochondrial oncometabolites), benign prostatic and cancer tissues of patients with PCa were analyzed using capillary electrophoresis and liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. Gene expression was studied using real-time PCR. In PCa tissues, we found reduced levels of early tricarboxylic acid cycle metabolites, whereas the contents of urea cycle metabolites including aspartate, argininosuccinate, arginine, proline, and the oncometabolite fumarate were higher than that in benign controls. Fumarate content correlated positively with the gene expression of oncogenic HIF1α and NFκB pathways, which were significantly higher in the PCa samples than in the benign controls. Furthermore, data from the TCGA database demonstrated that prostate cancer patients with activated NFκB pathway had a lower survival rate. In summary, our data showed that fumarate content was positively associated with carcinogenic genes.
The Immobilization of Lipases on Porous Support by Adsorption and Hydrophobic Interaction Method
Authors: Mokhtar Nur Fathiah , Abd. Rahman Raja Noor Zaliha Raja , Muhd Noor Noor Dina , Mohd Shariff Fairolniza , Mohamad Ali Mohd Shukuri
Published: July 2020

Four major enzymes commonly used in the market are lipases, proteases, amylases, and cellulases. For instance, in both academic and industrial levels, microbial lipases have been well studied for industrial and biotechnological applications compared to others. Immobilization is done to minimize the cost. The improvement of enzyme properties enables the reusability of enzymes and facilitates enzymes used in a continuous process. Immobilized enzymes are enzymes physically confined in a particularly defined region with retention to their catalytic activities. Immobilized enzymes can be used repeatedly compared to free enzymes, which are unable to catalyze reactions continuously in the system. Immobilization also provides a higher pH value and thermal stability for enzymes toward synthesis. The main parameter influencing the immobilization is the support used to immobilize the enzyme. The support should have a large surface area, high rigidity, suitable shape and particle size, reusability, and resistance to microbial attachment, which will enhance the stability of the enzyme. The diffusion of the substrate in the carrier is more favorable on hydrophobic supports instead of hydrophilic supports. The methods used for enzyme immobilization also play a crucial role in immobilization performance. The combination of immobilization methods will increase the binding force between enzymes and the support, thus reducing the leakage of the enzymes from the support. The adsorption of lipase on a hydrophobic support causes the interfacial activation of lipase during immobilization. The adsorption method also causes less or no change in enzyme conformation, especially on the active site of the enzyme. Thus, this method is the most used in the immobilization process for industrial applications.
Most Recent Advances in Diesel Engine Catalytic Soot Abatement: Structured Catalysts and Alternative Approaches
Authors: Meloni Eugenio , Palma Vincenzo
Published: July 2020

Diesel engine emissions are typically composed of several hundred chemical compounds, partly present in the gas phase and partly in solid phase as particles, the so-called particulate matter or soot. The morphology of the catalyst is an important characteristic of soot particles’ abatement, since a good contact between catalyst and soot is mandatory. For practical purposes, the active species should be supported as a film on the structured carrier, in order to allow simultaneous soot filtration and combustion. This review focuses on the most recent advances in the development of structured catalysts for diesel engine catalytic soot combustion, characterized by different active species and supports, as well as by different geometric configurations (monoliths, foams, ceramic papers, or wire mesh); the most important peculiar properties are highlighted and summarized. Moreover, a critical review of the most recent advances in modeling studies is also presented in this paper. In addition, some highlights on some of the most recent alternative approaches proposed for limiting the soot emissions from diesel engines have been given, delineating feasible alternatives to the classical strategies nowadays used.
Main Structural Targets for Engineering Lipase Substrate Specificity
Authors: Albayati Samah Hashim , Masomian Malihe , Ishak Siti Nor Hasmah , Mohamad Ali Mohd Shukuri bin , Thean Adam Leow , Mohd Shariff Fairolniza binti , Muhd Noor Noor Dina binti , Raja Abd Rahman Raja Noor Zaliha
Published: July 2020

Microbial lipases represent one of the most important groups of biotechnological biocatalysts. However, the high-level production of lipases requires an understanding of the molecular mechanisms of gene expression, folding, and secretion processes. Stable, selective, and productive lipase is essential for modern chemical industries, as most lipases cannot work in different process conditions. However, the screening and isolation of a new lipase with desired and specific properties would be time consuming, and costly, so researchers typically modify an available lipase with a certain potential for minimizing cost. Improving enzyme properties is associated with altering the enzymatic structure by changing one or several amino acids in the protein sequence. This review detailed the main sources, classification, structural properties, and mutagenic approaches, such as rational design (site direct mutagenesis, iterative saturation mutagenesis) and direct evolution (error prone PCR, DNA shuffling), for achieving modification goals. Here, both techniques were reviewed, with different results for lipase engineering, with a particular focus on improving or changing lipase specificity. Changing the amino acid sequences of the binding pocket or lid region of the lipase led to remarkable enzyme substrate specificity and enantioselectivity improvement. Site-directed mutagenesis is one of the appropriate methods to alter the enzyme sequence, as compared to random mutagenesis, such as error-prone PCR. This contribution has summarized and evaluated several experimental studies on modifying the substrate specificity of lipases.
Counteracting Rapid Catalyst Deactivation by Concomitant Temperature Increase during Catalytic Upgrading of Biomass Pyrolysis Vapors Using Solid Acid Catalysts
Authors: Eschenbacher Andreas , Saraeian Alireza , Shanks Brent H. , Mentzel Uffe Vie , Ahrenfeldt Jesper , Henriksen Ulrik Birk , Jensen Anker Degn
Published: July 2020

The treatment of biomass-derived fast pyrolysis vapors with solid acid catalysts (in particular HZSM-5 zeolite) improves the quality of liquid bio-oils. However, due to the highly reactive nature of the oxygenates, the catalysts deactivate rapidly due to coking. Within this study, the deactivation and product yields using steam-treated phosphorus-modified HZSM-5/γ-Al2O3 and bare γ-Al2O3 was studied with analytical Py-GC. While at a fixed catalyst temperature of 450 °C, a rapid breakthrough of oxygenates was observed with increased biomass feeding, this breakthrough was delayed and slower at higher catalyst temperatures (600 °C). Nevertheless, at all (constant) temperatures, there was a continuous decrease in the yield of oxygen-free hydrocarbons with increased biomass feeding. Raising the reaction temperature during the vapor treatment could successfully compensate for the loss in activity and allowed a more stable production of oxygen-free hydrocarbons. Since more biomass could be fed over the same amount of catalyst while maintaining good deoxygenation performance, this strategy reduces the frequency of regeneration in parallel fixed bed applications and provides a more stable product yield. The approach appears particularly interesting for catalysts that are robust under hydrothermal conditions and warrants further investigations at larger scales for the collection and analysis of liquid bio-oil.
Molecular Basis of the Function of Transcriptional Enhancers
Authors: Ibragimov Airat N. , Bylino Oleg V. , Shidlovskii Yulii V.
Published: July 2020

Transcriptional enhancers are major genomic elements that control gene activity in eukaryotes. Recent studies provided deeper insight into the temporal and spatial organization of transcription in the nucleus, the role of non-coding RNAs in the process, and the epigenetic control of gene expression. Thus, multiple molecular details of enhancer functioning were revealed. Here, we describe the recent data and models of molecular organization of enhancer-driven transcription.
A Concise Review on Tissue Engineered Artificial Skin Grafts for Chronic Wound Treatment: Can We Reconstruct Functional Skin Tissue In Vitro?
Authors: Przekora Agata
Published: July 2020

Chronic wounds occur as a consequence of a prolonged inflammatory phase during the healing process, which precludes skin regeneration. Typical treatment for chronic wounds includes application of autografts, allografts collected from cadaver, and topical delivery of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial agents. Nevertheless, the mentioned therapies are not sufficient for extensive or deep wounds. Moreover, application of allogeneic skin grafts carries high risk of rejection and treatment failure. Advanced therapies for chronic wounds involve application of bioengineered artificial skin substitutes to overcome graft rejection as well as topical delivery of mesenchymal stem cells to reduce inflammation and accelerate the healing process. This review focuses on the concept of skin tissue engineering, which is a modern approach to chronic wound treatment. The aim of the article is to summarize common therapies for chronic wounds and recent achievements in the development of bioengineered artificial skin constructs, including analysis of biomaterials and cells widely used for skin graft production. This review also presents attempts to reconstruct nerves, pigmentation, and skin appendages (hair follicles, sweat glands) using artificial skin grafts as well as recent trends in the engineering of biomaterials, aiming to produce nanocomposite skin substitutes (nanofilled polymer composites) with controlled antibacterial activity. Finally, the article describes the composition, advantages, and limitations of both newly developed and commercially available bioengineered skin substitutes.
Tunable Magneto-Dielectric Material for Electrically Small and Reconfigurable Antenna Systems at Vhf Band
Authors: Batel Lotfi , Mattei Jean-Luc , Laur Vincent , Chevalier Alexis , Delaveaud Christophe
Published: July 2020

The main issue to tune controlled devices by the application of a DC magnetic field comes up against the high value of the field’s intensity required for their implementation. This work presents an implementation of magneto-dielectric materials (MDM) specifically manufactured for their integration in antenna devices operating in VHF band. The twofold objective is: (i) reduction in antenna size, (ii) frequency tuning of the antenna using a low intensity magnetic control. A notable permeability variation of MDM samples is observed when the symmetry of the lines of the control field, with an intensity less than 10 Oe, is consistent with the one of the structures in the magnetic domains. The MDM allows a miniaturization of 20% of an inverted-F antenna (IFA) antenna structure, and an agility of about 2.5% for a control field of 1.5 Oe.