bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Machine Learning Evaluation of the Requirement Engineering Process Models for Cloud Computing and Security Issues
Authors: Nadeem Muhammad Asgher , Lee Scott Uk-Jin
Published: August 2020

In the requirement engineering phase, the team members work to get the user requirements, comprehend them and specify them for the next process. There are many models for the requirement engineering phase. There is a need to select the best Requirement Engineering model, and integrate it with cloud computing, that can give the best response to the users and software developers and avoid mistakes in the requirement engineering phase. In this study, these models are integrated with the cloud computing domain, and we report on the security considerations of all the selected models. Four requirement engineering process models are selected for this study: the Linear approach, the Macaulay Linear approach, and the Iterative and Spiral models. The focus of this study is to check the security aspects being introduced by the cloud platform and assess the feasibility of these models for the popular cloud environment SaaS. For the classification of the security aspects that affect the performance of these model, a framework is proposed, and we check the results regarding selected security parameters and RE models. By classifying the selected RE models for security aspects based on deep learning techniques, we determine that the Loucopoulos and Karakostas iterative requirements engineering process model performs better than all the other models.
Parameter and State Estimation for Uncertain Nonlinear Systems by Adaptive Observer Based on Differential Evolution Algorithm
Authors: Yang Xiaoliu , Li Zetao , Dahhou Boutaib
Published: August 2020

This paper puts forward a new adaptive observer scheme for joint estimation of state and multi-parameters for nonlinear dynamic systems. The adaptive observer uses chaos differential evolution algorithm to improve global optimality of estimation in the case of multi-parameter and system nonlinearity. Slide time window is used to realize real-time estimation. The simulation result shows the effectiveness of the adaptive observer.
Buckling Strength of 3-D Printed Thermoplastic Thin Shells: Notes on an Exploratory Study of As-Printed and Reinforced Cases
Authors: Rocha Pereira Tais , Patterson Albert E. , Messimer Sherri L.
Published: August 2020

Additively-manufactured (AM) materials have a defined mesostructure and natural voids which impact their structural stability; thin shells, which do not have the bulk to support or absorb the effects of the variances in properties, are particularly affected. Thin shells are a common feature in many designs, providing good strength-to-weight ratios for many applications, particularly in the aerospace and structural design domains. The use of AM to fabricate thin structures could both expand the use of AM and improve the application space for thin structures in design, but this problem has not yet been widely discussed for buckling cases. This short technical note explored this problem for thermoplastic thin shells fabricated by fused deposition modeling (FDM), providing insight into the problem, some initial experimental results, and discussion of design implications. A designed 2(4−1) factorial experiment was used to study the buckling behavior, examining the impact of wall thickness, material, and two methods for internal reinforcement (soft infill and polyurethane foam). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) (including model adequacy testing and proof of Fisher Assumption validity) was completed on data from two replications (32 total tests), providing useful information on the significance of the factors and their interactions.
Synthesis, Characterization and Evaluation of the Antibiofouling Potential of Some Metal and Metal Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Blanco-Covián Lucía , Campello-García José Ramón , Blanco-López María Carmen , Miranda-Martínez Manuel
Published: August 2020

This study explores the potential antibiofouling capacity of coatings based on mixes of poly vinyl alcohol (PVA)-glutaraldehyde (GA) incorporating additions of metal and metal oxide nanoparticles (TiO2, ZnO, CuO, AgNPs and Ag-TiO2NPs). Such a kind of hybrid polymer-nanoparticle mix (PVA/GA/ nanoparticles (NPs)) was uniformly applied by spin coating on the surface of a laboratory raceway and tested in freshwater loaded with green algae communities. The results showed PVA/GA was a convenient carrier for the nanoparticles tested. Image analysis of the coatings showed that Ag-TiO2 nanoparticles exhibited a significant improvement of the antibiofouling effect when compared with that of AgNPs and TiO2-NPs. The effect of the Ag-TiO2 NPs loaded coating about four times better than that of ZnO-NPs. A consistent experimental methodology was developed to test the antibiofouling capacity of the coatings and the hybrid coatings developed have demonstrated promising results as environmentally friendly antibiofouling materials.
Modified Polynomial Chaos Expansion for Efficient Uncertainty Quantification in Biological Systems
Authors: Son Jeongeun , Du Dongping , Du Yuncheng
Published: August 2020

Uncertainty quantification (UQ) is an important part of mathematical modeling and simulations, which quantifies the impact of parametric uncertainty on model predictions. This paper presents an efficient approach for polynomial chaos expansion (PCE) based UQ method in biological systems. For PCE, the key step is the stochastic Galerkin (SG) projection, which yields a family of deterministic models of PCE coefficients to describe the original stochastic system. When dealing with systems that involve nonpolynomial terms and many uncertainties, the SG-based PCE is computationally prohibitive because it often involves high-dimensional integrals. To address this, a generalized dimension reduction method (gDRM) is coupled with quadrature rules to convert a high-dimensional integral in the SG into a few lower dimensional ones that can be rapidly solved. The performance of the algorithm is validated with two examples describing the dynamic behavior of cells. Compared to other UQ techniques (e.g., nonintrusive PCE), the results show the potential of the algorithm to tackle UQ in more complicated biological systems.
Characterization of Spatio-Temporal Trends and Periodicity of Precipitation over Malawi during 1979–2015
Authors: Tadeyo Edwin , Chen Dan , Ayugi Brian , Yao Chunzhen
Published: August 2020

Precipitation remains the key climatic parameter in sub-Saharan Africa, as it drives the economy through rain-fed agricultural production. Malawi is one of the countries most susceptible to the impacts of climate change and variability. This paper presents the characteristics of spatio-temporal trends and periodicity of precipitation in Malawi in the period from 1979 to 2015. The analysis was based on recent rain ground gauge data. In total, 31 out of 36 rainfall stations, which include some key stations from the southeast of Malawi, were selected for the study after robust homogeneity tests were applied to the datasets. Spatial distribution of annual mean precipitation showed that high amounts of rainfall are located in areas along the lake and the southeast part of Malawi. The spatial distribution of the wet season (November to April) precipitation from EOF (Empirical Orthogonal Function) analysis revealed ten wet years (1985, 1986, 1989, 1996, 1997, 1999, 2001, 2006, 2007, and 2015) and ten dry years (1981, 1983, 1987, 1990, 1992, 1994, 1995, 2005, 2011, and 2014). In general, the temporal trends analyses of seasonal (wet season) and annual precipitations both displayed slight decreasing slopes during the 37 years. The trend of precipitation per decade displayed an increase in precipitation during 1980s and 1990s, followed by a decrease in the 21st century. Furthermore, the analysis of the spatial and temporal variability and trends of rainfall showed that northern and central Malawi displayed a clearer variability than southern Malawi. Although the trends of most of the stations are not significant at 95% confidence level, the decreasing rates of rainfall in the last decade and the decreasing trends on wet season and annual scale detected by Mann–Kendall tests require closer monitoring of rainfall changes in the near future. The stations which exhibited significant trends (Naminjiwa and Dedza stations) also call for closer monitoring, since the area relies heavily on rain-fed agriculture for economic sustenance.
MDA-MB-231 Breast Cancer Cells Resistant to Pleurocidin-Family Lytic Peptides Are Chemosensitive and Exhibit Reduced Tumor-Forming Capacity
Authors: Hilchie Ashley L. , Gill Erin E. , Coombs Melanie R. Power , Falsafi Reza , Hancock Robert E. W. , Hoskin David W.
Published: August 2020

Direct-acting anticancer (DAA) peptides are cytolytic peptides that show promise as novel anticancer agents. DAA peptides bind to anionic molecules that are abundant on cancer cells relative to normal healthy cells, which results in preferential killing of cancer cells. Due to the mechanism by which DAA peptides kill cancer cells, it was thought that resistance would be difficult to achieve. Here, we describe the generation and characterization of two MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell-line variants with reduced susceptibility to pleurocidin-family and mastoparan DAA peptides. Peptide resistance correlated with deficiencies in peptide binding to cell-surface structures, suggesting that resistance was due to altered composition of the cell membrane. Peptide-resistant MDA-MB-231 cells were phenotypically distinct yet remained susceptible to chemotherapy. Surprisingly, neither of the peptide-resistant breast cancer cell lines was able to establish tumors in immune-deficient mice. Histological analysis and RNA sequencing suggested that tumorigenicity was impacted by alternations in angiogenesis and extracellular matrix composition in the peptide-resistant MDA-MB-231 variants. Collectively, these data further support the therapeutic potential of DAA peptides as adjunctive treatments for cancer.
Characterization of FDG PET Images Using Texture Analysis in Tumors of the Gastro-Intestinal Tract: A Review
Authors: Deleu Anne-Leen , Sathekge Machaba Junior , Maes Alex , De Spiegeleer Bart , Sathekge Mike , Van de Wiele Christophe
Published: August 2020

Radiomics or textural feature extraction obtained from positron emission tomography (PET) images through complex mathematical models of the spatial relationship between multiple image voxels is currently emerging as a new tool for assessing intra-tumoral heterogeneity in medical imaging. In this paper, available literature on texture analysis using FDG PET imaging in patients suffering from tumors of the gastro-intestinal tract is reviewed. While texture analysis of FDG PET images appears clinically promising, due to the lack of technical specifications, a large variability in the implemented methodology used for texture analysis and lack of statistical robustness, at present, no firm conclusions can be drawn regarding the predictive or prognostic value of FDG PET texture analysis derived indices in patients suffering from gastro-enterologic tumors. In order to move forward in this field, a harmonized image acquisition and processing protocol as well as a harmonized protocol for texture analysis of tumor volumes, allowing multi-center studies excluding statistical biases should be considered. Furthermore, the complementary and additional value of CT-imaging, as part of the PET/CT imaging technique, warrants exploration.
The Effects of Gradual Change in Head Positioning on the Relationship between Systemic and Cerebral Haemodynamic Parameters in Healthy Controls and Acute Ischaemic Stroke Patients
Authors: Sands Eloise , Wong Louvinia , Lam Man Y. , Panerai Ronney B. , Robinson Thompson G. , Minhas Jatinder S.
Published: August 2020

(1) Background: Larger blood pressure variability (BPv) in the first 3 h post-stroke onset increases pathophysiological effects such as infarct size, and leads to greater risk of disability, comorbidities and mortality at 90 days. However, there is limited information on the relationship between systemic and cerebral haemodynamic and variability parameters. (2) Objectives: This study determined the effect of a gradual change in head position (GHP) on cerebral blood flow velocity variability (CBFVv) and mean arterial blood pressure variability (MABPv), in healthy controls and acute ischaemic stroke (AIS) patients. Methods: CBFVv and MABPv were expressed as standard deviation (SD) and coefficient of variation. A total of 16 healthy controls (mean age 57 ± 16 years) were assessed over two visits, 12 ± 8 days apart, and 15 AIS patients (mean age 69 ± 8.5 years) were assessed over three visits (V1: 13.3 ± 6.9 h, V2: 4.9 ± 3.2 days and V3: 93.9 ± 11.5 days post-stroke). (3) Results: In response to GHP, MABPv does not initially increase, but over time MABPv showed a significant increase in response to GHP in AIS (visits 2 and 3) and controls (visit 2). Additionally, in response to GHP in AIS, CBFVv increased in the affected hemisphere. Lastly, in AIS, a significant correlation between CBFVv and MABPv, assessed by SD, was seen in the unaffected hemisphere, whereas this relationship was not demonstrated in the affected hemisphere. (4) Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is the first study to analyse the relationship between CBFVv and MABPv. Shedding light on the effect of head position on the relationship between cerebral blood flow and blood pressure is important to improve our understanding of the underlying effects of cerebral autoregulation impairment. This early mechanistic study provides evidence supporting supine head positioning in healthy controls and stroke patients, through demonstration of a reduction of MABPv and increase in CBFVv.
Synuclein Deficiency Results in Age-Related Respiratory and Cardiovascular Dysfunctions in Mice
Authors: Hosford Patrick S. , Ninkina Natalia , Buchman Vladimir L. , Smith Jeffrey C. , Marina Nephtali , SheikhBahaei Shahriar
Published: August 2020

Synuclein (α, β, and γ) proteins are highly expressed in presynaptic terminals, and significant data exist supporting their role in regulating neurotransmitter release. Targeting the gene encoding α-synuclein is the basis of many animal models of Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, the physiological role of this family of proteins in not well understood and could be especially relevant as interfering with accumulation of α-synuclein level has therapeutic potential in limiting PD progression. The long-term effects of their removal are unknown and given the complex pathophysiology of PD, could exacerbate other clinical features of the disease, for example dysautonomia. In the present study, we sought to characterize the autonomic phenotypes of mice lacking all synucleins (α, β, and γ; αβγ−/−) in order to better understand the role of synuclein-family proteins in autonomic function. We probed respiratory and cardiovascular reflexes in conscious and anesthetized, young (4 months) and aged (18–20 months) αβγ−/− male mice. Aged mice displayed impaired respiratory responses to both hypoxia and hypercapnia when breathing activities were recorded in conscious animals using whole-body plethysmography. These animals were also found to be hypertensive from conscious blood pressure recordings, to have reduced pressor baroreflex gain under anesthesia, and showed reduced termination of both pressor and depressor reflexes. The present data demonstrate the importance of synuclein in the normal function of respiratory and cardiovascular reflexes during aging.
Acute DOB and PMA Administration Impairs Motor and Sensorimotor Responses in Mice and Causes Hallucinogenic Effects in Adult Zebrafish
Authors: Tirri Micaela , Ponzoni Luisa , Bilel Sabrine , Arfè Raffaella , Braida Daniela , Sala Mariaelvina , Marti Matteo
Published: August 2020

The drastic increase in hallucinogenic compounds in illicit drug markets of new psychoactive substances (NPS) is a worldwide threat. Among these, 2, 5-dimetoxy-4-bromo-amphetamine (DOB) and paramethoxyamphetamine (PMA; marketed as “ecstasy”) are frequently purchased on the dark web and consumed for recreational purposes during rave/dance parties. In fact, these two substances seem to induce the same effects as MDMA, which could be due to their structural similarities. According to users, DOB and PMA share the same euphoric effects: increasing of the mental state, increasing sociability and empathy. Users also experienced loss of memory, temporal distortion, and paranoia following the repetition of the same thought. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the acute systemic administration of DOB and PMA (0.01–30 mg/kg; i.p.) on motor, sensorimotor (visual, acoustic, and tactile), and startle/PPI responses in CD-1 male mice. Moreover, the pro-psychedelic effect of DOB (0.075–2 mg/kg) and PMA (0.0005–0.5 mg/kg) was investigated by using zebrafish as a model. DOB and PMA administration affected spontaneous locomotion and impaired behaviors and startle/PPI responses in mice. In addition, the two compounds promoted hallucinatory states in zebrafish by reducing the hallucinatory score and swimming activity in hallucinogen-like states.
Activation of the Supplementary Motor Areas Enhances Spinal Reciprocal Inhibition in Healthy Individuals
Authors: Hirabayashi Ryo , Kojima Sho , Edama Mutsuaki , Onishi Hideaki
Published: August 2020

The supplementary motor area (SMA) may modulate spinal reciprocal inhibition (RI) because the descending input from the SMA is coupled to interneurons in the spinal cord via the reticulospinal tract. Our study aimed to verify whether the anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (anodal-tDCS) of the SMA enhances RI. Two tDCS conditions were used: the anodal stimulation (anodal-tDCS) and sham stimulation (sham-tDCS) conditions. To measure RI, there were two conditions: one with the test stimulus (alone) and the other with the conditioning-test stimulation intervals (CTIs), including 2 ms and 20 ms. RI was calculated at multiple time points: before the tDCS intervention (Pre); at 5 (Int 5) and 10 min; and immediately after (Post 0); and at 5, 10 (Post 10), 15, and 20 min after the intervention. In anodal-tDCS, the amplitude values of H-reflex were significantly reduced for a CTI of 2 ms at Int 5 to Post 0, and a CTI of 20 ms at Int 5 to Pot 10 compared with Pre. Stimulation of the SMA with anodal-tDCS for 15 min activated inhibitory interneurons in RIs by descending input from the reticulospinal tract via cortico–reticulospinal projections. The results showed that 15 min of anodal-tDCS in the SMA enhanced and sustained RI in healthy individuals.
COVID-19 and Cancer: Lessons Learnt from a Michigan Hotspot
Authors: Singh Sunny R. K. , Thanikachalam Kannan , Jabbour-Aida Hiba , Poisson Laila M. , Khan Gazala
Published: August 2020

(1) Background: Outcomes with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have been worse in those with comorbidities and amongst minorities. In our study, we describe outcomes amongst cancer patients in Detroit, a major COVID-19 hotspot with a predominant inner-city population. (2) Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 85 patients with active invasive cancers who were infected with COVID-19. The primary outcome was death or transition to hospice. (3) Results: The majority were males (55.3%, n = 47), ≤70 years old (58.5%, n = 50), and African Americans (65.5%, n = 55). The most common primary site was prostate (18.8%, n = 16). Inpatient admission was documented in 85.5% (n = 73), ICU admission in 35.3% (n = 30), and primary outcome in 43.8% (n = 32) of hospitalized patients. On a multivariate analysis, factors associated with increased odds of a primary outcome included an age of >70 years versus ≤70 years (OR 4.7, p = 0.012) and of male gender (OR 4.8, p = 0.008). Recent cancer-directed therapy was administered in 66.7% (n = 20) of ICU admissions versus 39.5% (n = 17) of general floor admissions (Chi-square p-value of 0.023). (4) Conclusions: High rates of mortality/transition to hospice and ICU utilization were noted amongst our patients with active invasive cancer, following a COVID-19 infection. Men and those of >70 years of age had a greater than four-fold increase in odds of death or transition to hospice.
Marker Identification of the Grade of Dysplasia of Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasm in Pancreatic Cyst Fluid by Quantitative Proteomic Profiling
Authors: Do Misol , Kim Hongbeom , Shin Dongyoon , Park Joonho , Kim Haeryoung , Han Youngmin , Jang Jin-Young , Kim Youngsoo
Published: August 2020

The incidence of patients with pancreatic cystic lesions, particularly intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN), is increasing. Current guidelines, which primarily consider radiological features and laboratory data, have had limited success in predicting malignant IPMN. The lack of a definitive diagnostic method has led to low-risk IPMN patients undergoing unnecessary surgeries. To address this issue, we discovered IPMN marker candidates by analyzing pancreatic cystic fluid by mass spectrometry. A total of 30 cyst fluid samples, comprising IPMN dysplasia and other cystic lesions, were evaluated. Mucus was removed by brief sonication, and the resulting supernatant was subjected to filter-aided sample preparation and high-pH peptide fractionation. Subsequently, the samples were analyzed by LC-MS/MS. Using several bioinformatics tools, such as gene ontology and ingenuity pathway analysis, we detailed IPMNs at the molecular level. Among the 5834 proteins identified in our dataset, 364 proteins were differentially expressed between IPMN dysplasia. The 19 final candidates consistently increased or decreased with greater IPMN malignancy. CD55 was validated in an independent cohort by ELISA, Western blot, and IHC, and the results were consistent with the MS data. In summary, we have determined the characteristics of pancreatic cyst fluid proteins and discovered potential biomarkers for IPMN dysplasia.
S-1 versus Doublet Regimens as Adjuvant Chemotherapy in Patients with Advanced Gastric Cancer after Radical Surgery with D2 Dissection—A Propensity Score Matching Analysis
Authors: Hsieh Meng-Che , Wang Shih-Ho , Wei Ching-Ting , Chen Chung-Yen , Chen Yen-Yang , Pei Sung-Nan , Tsai Yu-Fen , Rau Kun-Ming
Published: August 2020

Background: Fluoropyrimidine- and platinum-based doublet regimen is the standard treatment of adjuvant chemotherapy (AC) for gastric cancer (GC). Our study aims to compare S1 with doublet regimens as AC in patients with advanced GC after radical surgery with D2 dissection. Methods: Patients who were diagnosed with GC and underwent a curative surgery with D2 dissection followed by AC were enrolled into our study. A propensity score matching analysis was performed to reduce the selection bias. Kaplan–Meier curves were estimated for recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS). Cox regression models were conducted for survival. Results: After propensity sore matching, 64 patients with S1 and 64 patients with doublet regimens were identified. The median RFS (p = 0.355) and OS (p = 0.309) were both insignificant between S1 and ST. Cox regression analysis demonstrated that pathologic stage and lymph node ratio (LNR) were independently correlated with survival. Patients were then stratified into low risk and high risk groups. The median RFS (p < 0.001) and OS (p < 0.001) had significant differences between low risk and high risk. In the high-risk group, doublet regimens were strongly associated with survival (p = 0.020) as compared with S1. While in the low-risk group, doublet regimen and S1 did not have statistically different survival benefits. Conclusions: Our study demonstrated that doublet regimens are superior to S1 in high-risk groups, and that survival outcomes are similar between doublet regimens and S1 in low-risk groups. Our prognostic model might have clinical implications for AC.
Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy for Peritoneal Surface Malignancies: Learning Curve Based on Surgical and Oncological Outcomes
Authors: Mielko Jerzy , Rawicz-Pruszyński Karol , Sędłak Katarzyna , Gęca Katarzyna , Kwietniewska Magdalena , Polkowski Wojciech P.
Published: August 2020

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is a complex, highly specialized procedure used to treat peritoneal surface malignancies (PSM) [...]
The Link between Cytogenetics/Genomics and Imaging Patterns of Relapse and Progression in Patients with Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma: A Pilot Study Utilizing 18F-FDG PET/CT
Authors: Zhou Xiang , Dierks Alexander , Kertels Olivia , Samnick Samuel , Kircher Malte , Buck Andreas K. , Haertle Larissa , Knorz Sebastian , Böckle David , Scheller Lukas , Messerschmidt Janin , Barakat Mohammad , Truger Marietta , Haferlach Claudia , Einsele Hermann , Rasche Leo , Kortüm K. Martin , Lapa Constantin
Published: August 2020

Utilizing 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT), we performed this pilot study to evaluate the link between cytogenetic/genomic markers and imaging patterns in relapsed/refractory (RR) multiple myeloma (MM). We retrospectively analyzed data of 24 patients with RRMM who were treated at our institution between November 2018 and February 2020. At the last relapse/progression, patients had been treated with a median of three (range 1–10) lines of therapy. Six (25%) patients showed FDG avid extramedullary disease without adjacency to bone. We observed significantly higher maximum standardized uptake values (SUVmax) in patients harboring del(17p) compared with those without del(17p) (p = 0.025). Moreover, a high SUVmax of >15 indicated significantly shortened progression-free survival (PFS) (p = 0.01) and overall survival (OS) (p = 0.0002). One female patient exhibited biallelic TP53 alteration, i.e., deletion and mutation, in whom an extremely high SUVmax of 37.88 was observed. In summary, this pilot study suggested a link between del(17p)/TP53 alteration and high SUVmax on 18F-FDG PET/CT in RRMM patients. Further investigations are highly warranted at this point.
Photocatalysis for Air Treatment Processes: Current Technologies and Future Applications for the Removal of Organic Pollutants and Viruses
Authors: Escobedo Salvador , de Lasa Hugo
Published: August 2020

Photocatalysis for air treatment or photocatalytic oxidation (PCO) is a relatively new technology which requires titanium dioxide (TiO2) and a source of light (Visible or near-UV) to degrade pollutants contained in air streams. Present approaches for the photodegradation of indoor pollutants in air streams aim to eliminate volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and viruses, which are both toxic and harmful to human health. Photocatalysis for air treatment is an inexpensive and innovative green process. Additionally, it is a technology with a reduced environmental footprint when compared to other conventional air treatments which demand significant energy, require the disposal of used materials, and release CO2 and other greenhouse gases to the environment. This review discusses the most current and relevant information on photocatalysis for air treatment. This article also provides a critical review of (1) the most commonly used TiO2-based semiconductors, (2) the experimental syntheses and the various photocatalytic organic species degradation conversions, (3) the developed kinetics and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and (4) the proposed Quantum Yields (QYs) and Photocatalytic Thermodynamic Efficiency Factors (PTEFs). Furthermore, this article contains important information on significant factors affecting the photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants, such as reactor designs and type of photoreactor irradiation. Overall, this review describes state-of-the-art photocatalysis for air treatment to eliminate harmful indoor organic molecules, reviewing as well the potential applications for the inactivation of SARS-CoV2 (COVID-19) viruses.
Modulation of Human Adipose Stem Cells’ Neurotrophic Capacity Using a Variety of Growth Factors for Neural Tissue Engineering Applications: Axonal Growth, Transcriptional, and Phosphoproteomic Analyses In Vitro
Authors: Prautsch Katharina M. , Schmidt Alexander , Paradiso Viola , Schaefer Dirk J. , Guzman Raphael , Kalbermatten Daniel F. , Madduri Srinivas
Published: August 2020

We report on a potential strategy involving the exogenous neurotrophic factors (NTF) for enhancing the neurotrophic capacity of human adipose stem cells (ASC) in vitro. For this, ASC were stimulated for three days using NTF, i.e., nerve growth factor (NGF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), neurotrophin 3 (NT3), NT4, glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), and ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF). The resulting conditioned medium (CM) as well as individual NTF exhibited distinct effects on axonal outgrowth from dorsal root ganglion (DRG) explants. In particular, CM derived from NT3-stimulated ASC (CM-NT3-ASC) promoted robust axonal outgrowth. Subsequent transcriptional analysis of DRG cultures in response to CM-NT3-ASC displayed significant upregulation of STAT-3 and GAP-43. In addition, phosphoproteomic analysis of NT3-stimulated ASC revealed significant changes in the phosphorylation state of different proteins that are involved in cytokine release, growth factors signaling, stem cell maintenance, and differentiation. Furthermore, DRG cultures treated with CM-NT3-ASC exhibited significant changes in the phosphorylation levels of proteins involved in tubulin and actin cytoskeletal pathways, which are crucial for axonal growth and elongation. Thus, the results obtained at the transcriptional, proteomic, and cellular level reveal significant changes in the neurotrophic capacity of ASC following NT3 stimulation and provide new options for improving the axonal growth-promoting potential of ASC in vitro.
AMPK-Dependent Mechanisms but Not Hypothalamic Lipid Signaling Mediates GH-Secretory Responses to GHRH and Ghrelin
Authors: Vázquez María J. , Novelle Marta G. , Rodríguez-Pacheco Francisca , Lage Ricardo , Varela Luis , López Miguel , Pinilla Leonor , Tena-Sempere Manuel , Diéguez Carlos
Published: August 2020

GH (growth hormone) secretion/action is modulated by alterations in energy homeostasis, such as malnutrition and obesity. Recent data have uncovered the mechanism by which hypothalamic neurons sense nutrient bioavailability, with a relevant contribution of AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase) and mTOR (mammalian Target of Rapamycin), as sensors of cellular energy status. However, whether central AMPK-mediated lipid signaling and mTOR participate in the regulation of pituitary GH secretion remains unexplored. We provide herein evidence for the involvement of hypothalamic AMPK signaling, but not hypothalamic lipid metabolism or CPT-1 (carnitine palmitoyltransferase I) activity, in the regulation of GH stimulatory responses to the two major elicitors of GH release in vivo, namely GHRH (growth hormone–releasing hormone) and ghrelin. This effect appeared to be GH-specific, as blocking of hypothalamic AMPK failed to influence GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone)-induced LH (luteinizing hormone) secretion. Additionally, central mTOR inactivation did not alter GH responses to GHRH or ghrelin, nor this blockade affected LH responses to GnRH in vivo. In sum, we document here for the first time the indispensable and specific role of preserved central AMPK, but not mTOR, signaling, through a non-canonical lipid signaling pathway, for proper GH responses to GHRH and ghrelin in vivo.
The Expressions of TSLP, IL-33, and IL-17A in Monocyte Derived Dendritic Cells from Asthma and COPD Patients are Related to Epithelial–Macrophage Interactions
Authors: Paplinska-Goryca Magdalena , Misiukiewicz-Stepien Paulina , Proboszcz Malgorzata , Nejman-Gryz Patrycja , Gorska Katarzyna , Krenke Rafal
Published: August 2020

Background. The cross-talk between the external and internal environment in the respiratory tract involves macrophage/dendritic cell (DC) transepithelial network. Epithelium triggers dendritic cell-mediated inflammation by producing thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), IL-33, and IL-17A. The study aimed to evaluate the expression of TSLP, IL-33, and IL-17A in human monocyte derived dendritic cells (moDCs) co-cultured with respiratory epithelium and monocyte derived macrophages (moMφs) in asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and healthy controls. Methods. The study used a triple-cell co-culture model, utilizing nasal epithelial cells, along with moMφs and moDCs. Cells were cultured in mono-, di-, and triple-co-cultures for 24 h. Results. Co-culture with epithelium and moMφs significantly increased TSLP in asthma and did not change IL-33 and IL-17A mRNA expression in moDCs. moDCs from asthmatics were characterized by the highest TSLP mRNA expression and the richest population of TSLPR, ST2, and IL17RA expressed cells. A high number of positive correlations between the assessed cytokines and CHI3L1, IL-12p40, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, TNF in moDCs was observed in asthma and COPD. Conclusion. TSLP, IL-33, and IL-17A expression in moDCs are differently regulated by epithelium in asthma, COPD, and healthy subjects. These complex cell–cell interactions may impact airway inflammation and be an important factor in the pathobiology of asthma and COPD.
Glycan Node Analysis of Plasma-Derived Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Walker Sierra A. , Aguilar Díaz De león Jesús S. , Busatto Sara , Wurtz Gregory A. , Zubair Abba C. , Borges Chad R. , Wolfram Joy
Published: August 2020

Blood plasma is a readily accessible source of extracellular vesicles (EVs), i.e., cell-secreted nanosized carriers that contain various biomolecules, including glycans. Previous studies have demonstrated that glycans play a major role in physiological and pathological processes, and certain plasma glycans have been associated with disease conditions. However, glycome studies have been limited by a lack of analytical techniques with the throughput capacity necessary to study hundreds of clinical samples. This study is the first to characterize the EV plasma glycome based on all major glycan classes. The results based on glycan node analysis revealed, as expected, that plasma-derived EVs have distinct glycan features from donor-matched whole plasma. Specifically, glycan nodes corresponding to those observed in chondroitin sulfate, dermatan sulfate, type I keratan sulfate, and type II keratan sulfate were enriched on EVs. The identification of specific differences in glycan features in plasma vs. plasma-derived EVs is relevant for understanding the physiological role of EVs and as a reference for future diagnostic studies. Additionally, the results indicate that EV glycan nodes do not substantially differ among a small set of healthy donors. These results lay the framework for the further evaluation of all EV glycan classes as diagnostic markers, therapeutic targets, and biologically active components in health and disease.
IL-13 as Target to Reduce Cholestasis and Dysbiosis in Abcb4 Knockout Mice
Authors: Hahn Luisa , Helmrich Nora , Herebian Diran , Mayatepek Ertan , Drebber Uta , Domann Eugen , Olejniczak Stefan , Weigel Markus , Hain Torsten , Rath Timo , Wirtz Stefan , Mollenkopf Hans-Joachim , Schmidt Nadine , Ewers Christa , Baier Anne , Churin Yuri , Windhorst Anita , Weiskirchen Ralf , Steinhoff Ulrich , Roeb Elke , Roderfeld Martin
Published: August 2020

The Th2 cytokine IL-13 is involved in biliary epithelial injury and liver fibrosis in patients as well as in animal models. The aim of this study was to investigate IL-13 as a therapeutic target during short term and chronic intrahepatic cholestasis in an Abcb4-knockout mouse model (Abcb4−/−). Lack of IL-13 protected Abcb4−/− mice transiently from cholestasis. This decrease in serum bile acids was accompanied by an enhanced excretion of bile acids and a normalization of fecal bile acid composition. In Abcb4−/−/IL-13−/− double knockout mice, bacterial translocation to the liver was significantly reduced and the intestinal microbiome resembled the commensal composition in wild type animals. In addition, 52-week-old Abcb4−/−IL-13−/− mice showed significantly reduced hepatic fibrosis. Abcb4−/− mice devoid of IL-13 transiently improved cholestasis and converted the composition of the gut microbiota towards healthy conditions. This highlights IL-13 as a potential therapeutic target in biliary diseases.
Subcellular Localization and Mitotic Interactome Analyses Identify SIRT4 as a Centrosomally Localized and Microtubule Associated Protein
Authors: Bergmann Laura , Lang Alexander , Bross Christoph , Altinoluk-Hambüchen Simone , Fey Iris , Overbeck Nina , Stefanski Anja , Wiek Constanze , Kefalas Andreas , Verhülsdonk Patrick , Mielke Christian , Sohn Dennis , Stühler Kai , Hanenberg Helmut , Jänicke Reiner U. , Scheller Jürgen , Reichert Andreas S. , Ahmadian Mohammad Reza , Piekorz Roland P.
Published: August 2020

The stress-inducible and senescence-associated tumor suppressor SIRT4, a member of the family of mitochondrial sirtuins (SIRT3, SIRT4, and SIRT5), regulates bioenergetics and metabolism via NAD+-dependent enzymatic activities. Next to the known mitochondrial location, we found that a fraction of endogenous or ectopically expressed SIRT4, but not SIRT3, is present in the cytosol and predominantly localizes to centrosomes. Confocal spinning disk microscopy revealed that SIRT4 is found during the cell cycle dynamically at centrosomes with an intensity peak in G2 and early mitosis. Moreover, SIRT4 precipitates with microtubules and interacts with structural (α,β-tubulin, γ-tubulin, TUBGCP2, TUBGCP3) and regulatory (HDAC6) microtubule components as detected by co-immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometric analyses of the mitotic SIRT4 interactome. Overexpression of SIRT4 resulted in a pronounced decrease of acetylated α-tubulin (K40) associated with altered microtubule dynamics in mitotic cells. SIRT4 or the N-terminally truncated variant SIRT4(ΔN28), which is unable to translocate into mitochondria, delayed mitotic progression and reduced cell proliferation. This study extends the functional roles of SIRT4 beyond mitochondrial metabolism and provides the first evidence that SIRT4 acts as a novel centrosomal/microtubule-associated protein in the regulation of cell cycle progression. Thus, stress-induced SIRT4 may exert its role as tumor suppressor through mitochondrial as well as extramitochondrial functions, the latter associated with its localization at the mitotic spindle apparatus.
Determination of Volatile Organic Compounds in Water by Attenuated Total Reflection Infrared Spectroscopy and Diamond-Like Carbon Coated Silicon Wafers
Authors: Dettenrieder Carina , Türkmen Dervis , Mattsson Andreas , Österlund Lars , Karlsson Mikael , Mizaikoff Boris
Published: August 2020

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are one of the most commonly detected contaminants in water. The occurrence is mainly in gasoline and other petroleum-based products, fumigants, paints and plastics. Releases into the environment and the widespread use have an impact on the ecosystem such as humans and animals due to their toxicity, mutagenicity, and carcinogenicity. VOCs may persist in groundwater and may enter drinking water supplies. In this paper, a diamond-like carbon (DLC)-coated silicon waveguide in combination with a polymer film (ethylene/propylene copolymer, E/P-co) for enrichment of analytes was investigated to determine its suitability for ATR-FTIR (attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared) spectroscopic detection of VOCs. The DLC film was fluorine-terminated enhancing the adhesion of the hydrophobic polymer to the waveguide surface. The analytes diffuse into the hydrophobic polymer whereas water is excluded from the emanating evanescent field. Therefore, direct detection in aqueous systems is enabled. Nine VOCs, i.e., ethylbenzene (EB), trichloroethylene (TCE), tetrachloroethylene (TeCE), the xylene isomers (p-xylene, pXYL; m-xylene, mXYL; o-xylene, oXYL), naphthalene (NAPH), toluene (TOL), and benzene (BENZ), were evaluated simultaneously qualitatively and quantitatively showing the potential of DLC coatings revealing high sensitivities in the low ppb to ppm concentration range, i.e., 50 ppb for TeCE. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time of IR spectroscopic detection of VOCs in aqueous solutions using DLC-coated waveguides in combination with a hydrophobic polymer. By utilizing a DLC-coated waveguide, a versatile sensor for real-time monitoring in harsh environments such as effluents, leaking pipelines, and underground storage tanks is feasible due to response times within a few minutes.
High BAL sRAGE is Associated with Low Serum Eosinophils and IgE in Children with Asthma
Authors: Patregnani Jason T. , Brooks Bonnie A. , Chorvinsky Elizabeth , Pillai Dinesh K.
Published: August 2020

Asthma remains the most common chronic lung disease in childhood in the United States. The receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) has been recognized as both a marker of and participant in pulmonary pathophysiology. While membrane-bound RAGE (mRAGE) perpetuates the type 2 immune response, the soluble form (sRAGE) may act as a decoy receptor for pro-inflammatory ligands. Bronchoalveolar samples from 45 pediatric patients with asthma were obtained. Patients were divided into high and low BAL sRAGE groups using median sRAGE. Descriptive statistical analysis and non-parametric testing were applied. Children in the “high” sRAGE group had a lower median serum eosinophil (0.27 [SE ± 0.04] vs. 0.57 [± 0.06] K/mcl, adjusted p = 0.003) and lower serum IgE level (194.4 [± 60.7] vs. 676.2 ± 140.5) IU/mL, adjusted p = 0.004) as compared to the “low” sRAGE group. When controlling for age and body mass index percentile, absolute eosinophil count (p = 0.03) and serum IgE (p = 0.043) remained significantly lower in the “high” sRAGE group. Children with asthma and high levels of BAL sRAGE have lower serum eosinophil and IgE levels. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that sRAGE may act as a decoy receptor by binding ligands that normally interact with mRAGE.
Perspectives on Thermal Gradients in Porous ZrO2-7–8 wt.% Y2O3 (YSZ) Thermal Barrier Coatings (TBCs) Manufactured by Air Plasma Spray (APS)
Authors: Lima Rogerio S.
Published: August 2020

Porous (~10–20%) ZrO2-7–8 wt.% Y2O3 (YSZ) thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) manufactured via air plasma spray (APS) and exhibiting a thickness range of ~250–500 µm, provide thermal insulation from the hot combustion gases to the metallic parts located in the hot stationary sections of gas turbine engines (e.g., combustion chambers of aerospace turbines). The objective of this paper was to measure and report the thermal gradient values in a benchmark porous (~15%) APS YSZ TBC, working within the known acceptable maximum temperature envelop conditions of a TBC/substrate system, i.e., T-ysz ~1300 °C and T-sub ~1000 °C. In order to accomplish this objective, the following steps were performed. A benchmark APS YSZ TBC exhibiting two distinct thicknesses (~260 and ~460 µm) was manufactured. In addition, a thermal gradient laser-rig was employed to generate a temperature drop (ΔT) along the coated coupon, with the target operate within the acceptable maximum temperature capabilities of this type of TBC/substrate architecture. This target was achieved, i.e., T-ysz values were not higher than ~1300 °C while the substrate temperatures did not reach values above ~1000 °C. The ΔTs for the ~260 and ~460 µm YSZ TBCs were ~280 and ~465 °C, respectively. The thermal gradient value for both YSZ TBCs was ~0.90 °C/µm, which falls within those reported in the literature for porous APS YSZ TBCs.
Influence of Some Flexographic Printing Process Conditions on the Optical Density and Tonal Value Increase of Overprinted Plastic Films
Authors: Żołek-Tryznowska Zuzanna , Rombel Maciej , Petriaszwili Georgij , Dedijer Sandra , Kašiković Nemanja
Published: August 2020

The print quality of prints performed with flexographic printing technology is influenced by various parameters such as viscosity of the printing inks, printing substrates, plates, anilox rolls, etc. The aim of this work is to analyze the influence of ink viscosity, printing plate and printing base on selected properties of print quality, such as optical density of full tone area and the increase of tonal value (TVI). Additionally, the printed dots on 5, 15, 30, 50 and 75% of half tone area were investigated using digital microscopy. The least square fitting method in a matrix form was successfully used in order to confirm the influence of printing process parameters on print quality. The results obtained reveal the significant influence of the printing plate and printing substrate characteristics and the lesser influence of printing ink viscosity for 40–100% coverage area. The values of the optical densities of full tone areas are mainly influenced by the properties of the printing plate and the printing base. Furthermore, the optical density decreases when the value of flow time decreases, which is related to the lower thickness of dried ink film. The TVI on light tones (0 to 20%) is mainly influenced by the ink viscosity.
Influence of Different Electrolyte Additives and Structural Characteristics of Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation Coatings on AZ31 Magnesium Alloy
Authors: Huang Zhiquan , Wang Ruiqiang , Liu Xintong , Wang Dongdong , Zhang Heng , Shen Xiaojie , Shen Dejiu , Li Dalong
Published: August 2020

Coatings prepared by different electrolyte additives were investigated on AZ31 magnesium alloy by plasma electrolytic oxidation. In this study, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis were employed to assess the morphologies, chemical and phase compositions of the plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) coatings, respectively. Furthermore, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy was used to evaluate the corrosion behavior of the composite coating. The investigation of the effect of electrolyte additives in the base electrolyte showed that the PEO specimens exhibit different surface and cross-sectional morphologies, and phase compositions. The results showed that SiO32− was conducive to the growth of the ceramic layer, and the ceramic layer developing in the electrolyte which contained AlO2− showed a typical double-layer structure. The corrosion resistance of coating formed in a phosphate bath was higher than that of the coating formed in silicate bath and coating formed in an aluminate bath. Moreover, the corrosion resistance of the coating formed in the fluoride bath was the highest.
FTIR Characterization of the Development of Antimicrobial Catheter Coatings Loaded with Fluoroquinolones
Authors: Kowalczuk Dorota
Published: August 2020

The purpose of this paper was to present the development of antimicrobial coatings for different urinary catheters. Antimicrobial catheter coatings were prepared by immobilizing fluoroquinolones either with the use of linkers (covalent binding) or by activating the polymer matrix with iodine/bromine (noncovalent binding). The possibility of the deposition of antimicrobial agent(s) following bromine activation on latex, polyurethane, and silicone was evaluated. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), used to monitor the changes in the catheter’s molecular structure occurring over the course of its multi-stage modification, confirmed the presence of fluoroquinolones in the catheter matrix as well as site-specific reactions. The amounts of drugs embedded in the catheter matrix were determined by the HPLC method. Stability of the drug binding was checked by examining the drug release. The new antimicrobial coatings obtained with the participation of fluoroquinolone antibiotics have the potential to protect the patient against infections during catheterization.