bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrospun Scaffolds and Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Cardiomyocytes for Cardiac Tissue Engineering Applications
Authors: Suh Taylor Cook , Amanah Alaowei Y. , Gluck Jessica M.
Published: September 2020

Tissue engineering (TE) combines cells, scaffolds, and growth factors to assemble functional tissues for repair or replacement of tissues and organs. Cardiac TE is focused on developing cardiac cells, tissues, and structures—most notably the heart. This review presents the requirements, challenges, and research surrounding electrospun scaffolds and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived cardiomyocytes (CMs) towards applications to TE hearts. Electrospinning is an attractive fabrication method for cardiac TE scaffolds because it produces fibers that demonstrate the optimal potential for mimicking the complex structure of the cardiac extracellular matrix (ECM). iPSCs theoretically offer the capacity to generate limitless numbers of CMs for use in TE hearts, however these iPSC-CMs are electrophysiologically, morphologically, mechanically, and metabolically immature compared to adult CMs. This presents a functional limitation to their use in cardiac TE, and research aiming to address this limitation is presented in this review.
A Deep Learning-Based System (Microscan) for the Identification of Pollen Development Stages and Its Application to Obtaining Doubled Haploid Lines in Eggplant
Authors: García-Fortea Edgar , García-Pérez Ana , Gimeno-Páez Esther , Sánchez-Gimeno Alfredo , Vilanova Santiago , Prohens Jaime , Pastor-Calle David
Published: September 2020

The development of double haploids (DHs) is a straightforward path for obtaining pure lines but has multiple bottlenecks. Among them is the determination of the optimal stage of pollen induction for androgenesis. In this work, we developed Microscan, a deep learning-based system for the detection and recognition of the stages of pollen development. In a first experiment, the algorithm was developed adapting the RetinaNet predictive model using microspores of different eggplant accessions as samples. A mean average precision of 86.30% was obtained. In a second experiment, the anther range to be cultivated in vitro was determined in three eggplant genotypes by applying the Microscan system. Subsequently, they were cultivated following two different androgenesis protocols (Cb and E6). The response was only observed in the anther size range predicted by Microscan, obtaining the best results with the E6 protocol. The plants obtained were characterized by flow cytometry and with the Single Primer Enrichment Technology high-throughput genotyping platform, obtaining a high rate of confirmed haploid and double haploid plants. Microscan has been revealed as a tool for the high-throughput efficient analysis of microspore samples, as it has been exemplified in eggplant by providing an increase in the yield of DHs production.
Skim-Sequencing Based Genotyping Reveals Genetic Divergence of the Wild and Domesticated Population of Black Tiger Shrimp (Penaeus monodon) in the Indo-Pacific Region
Authors: Wong Li Lian , Deris Zulaikha Mat , Igarashi Yoji , Huang Songqian , Asakawa Shuichi , Ayub Qasim , Lim Shu Yong , Ikhwanuddin Mhd , Iehata Shumpei , Okamoto Kazutoshi , Mariom  , Asaduzzaman Md
Published: September 2020

The domestication of a wild-caught aquatic animal is an evolutionary process, which results in genetic discrimination at the genomic level in response to strong artificial selection. Although black tiger shrimp (Penaeus monodon) is one of the most commercially important aquaculture species, a systematic assessment of genetic divergence and structure of wild-caught and domesticated broodstock populations of the species is yet to be documented. Therefore, we used skim sequencing (SkimSeq) based genotyping approach to investigate the genetic structure of 50 broodstock individuals of P. monodon species, collected from five sampling sites (n = 10 in each site) across their distribution in Indo-Pacific regions. The wild-caught P. monodon broodstock population were collected from Malaysia (MS) and Japan (MJ), while domesticated broodstock populations were collected from Madagascar (MMD), Hawaii, HI, USA (MMO), and Thailand (MT). After various filtering process, a total of 194,259 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) loci were identified, in which 4983 SNP loci were identified as putatively adaptive by the pcadapt approach. In both datasets, pairwise FST estimates high genetic divergence between wild and domesticated broodstock populations. Consistently, different spatial clustering analyses in both datasets categorized divergent genetic structure into two clusters: (1) wild-caught populations (MS and MJ), and (2) domesticated populations (MMD, MMO and MT). Among 4983 putatively adaptive SNP loci, only 50 loci were observed to be in the coding region. The gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses suggested that non-synonymous mutated genes might be associated with the energy production, metabolic functions, respiration regulation and developmental rates, which likely act to promote adaptation to the strong artificial selection during the domestication process. This study has demonstrated the applicability of SkimSeq in a highly duplicated genome of P. monodon specifically, across a range of genetic backgrounds and geographical distributions, and would be useful for future genetic improvement program of this species in aquaculture.
Activated Protein Kinase C (PKC) Is Persistently Trafficked with Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) Receptor
Authors: Heckman Carol A. , Biswas Tania , Dimick Douglas M. , Cayer Marilyn L.
Published: September 2020

Protein kinase Cs (PKCs) are activated by lipids in the plasma membrane and bind to a scaffold assembled on the epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor (EGFR). Understanding how this complex is routed is important, because this determines whether EGFR is degraded, terminating signaling. Here, cells were preincubated in EGF-tagged gold nanoparticles, then allowed to internalize them in the presence or absence of a phorbol ester PKC activator. PKC colocalized with EGF-tagged nanoparticles within 5 min and migrated with EGFR-bearing vesicles into the cell. Two conformations of PKC-epsilon were distinguished by different primary antibodies. One, thought to be enzymatically active, was on endosomes and displayed a binding site for antibody RR (R&D). The other, recognized by Genetex green (GG), was soluble, on actin-rich structures, and loosely bound to vesicles. During a 15-min chase, EGF-tagged nanoparticles entered large, perinuclear structures. In phorbol ester-treated cells, vesicles bearing EGF-tagged nanoparticles tended to enter this endocytic recycling compartment (ERC) without the GG form. The correlation coefficient between the GG (inactive) and RR conformations on vesicles was also lower. Thus, active PKC has a Charon-like function, ferrying vesicles to the ERC, and inactivation counteracts this function. The advantage conferred on cells by aggregating vesicles in the ERC is unclear.
Targeting Alternative Splicing as a Potential Therapy for Episodic Ataxia Type 2
Authors: Jaudon Fanny , Baldassari Simona , Musante Ilaria , Thalhammer Agnes , Zara Federico , Cingolani Lorenzo A.
Published: September 2020

Episodic ataxia type 2 (EA2) is an autosomal dominant neurological disorder characterized by paroxysmal attacks of ataxia, vertigo, and nausea that usually last hours to days. It is caused by loss-of-function mutations in CACNA1A, the gene encoding the pore-forming α1 subunit of P/Q-type voltage-gated Ca2+ channels. Although pharmacological treatments, such as acetazolamide and 4-aminopyridine, exist for EA2, they do not reduce or control the symptoms in all patients. CACNA1A is heavily spliced and some of the identified EA2 mutations are predicted to disrupt selective isoforms of this gene. Modulating splicing of CACNA1A may therefore represent a promising new strategy to develop improved EA2 therapies. Because RNA splicing is dysregulated in many other genetic diseases, several tools, such as antisense oligonucleotides, trans-splicing, and CRISPR-based strategies, have been developed for medical purposes. Here, we review splicing-based strategies used for genetic disorders, including those for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, spinal muscular dystrophy, and frontotemporal dementia with Parkinsonism linked to chromosome 17, and discuss their potential applicability to EA2.
Withanolide Metabolites Inhibit PI3K/AKT and MAPK Pro-Survival Pathways and Induce Apoptosis in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells
Authors: Akhtar Nosheen , Baig Muhammad Waleed , Haq Ihsan-ul , Rajeeve Vinothini , Cutillas Pedro Rodriguez
Published: September 2020

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an aggressive disease and, despite advances, its treatment remains challenging. Therefore, it remains important to identify new agents for the management of this disease. Withanolides, a group of steroidal lactones found in Solanaceae plants are of potential interest due to their reported anticancer activities in different settings. In this study we investigated the anti-proliferative effects and mode of action of Solanaceae-derived withanolides in AML cell models; these metabolites include withametelin (WTH) and Coagulansin A (CoA) isolated from Datura innoxia and Withania coagluanse, respectively. Both withanolides inhibited the proliferation of AML cells and induced cell death, with WTH being more potent than CoA in the AML models tested. Quantitative label-free proteomics and phosphoproteomics were employed to define the mechanism of action of the studied withanolides. We identified and quantified 5269 proteins and 17,482 phosphosites in cells treated with WTH, CoA or vehicle control. Withanolides modulated the expression of proteins involved in regulating key cellular processes including cell cycle, metabolism, signaling, protein degradation and gene expression. Enrichment analysis of the phosphoproteomics data against kinase substrates, kinase-kinase relationships and canonical pathways showed that the withanolides decreased the activity of kinases such as phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), protein kinase B (PKB; also known as RAC-alpha serine/threonine-protein kinase or AKT), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) and the serine/threonine-protein kinase A-Raf (ARAF), while increasing the activation of DNA repair kinases. These results indicate that withanolide metabolites have pleiotropic effects in the modulation of oncogenic pro-survival and pro-apoptotic signaling pathways that regulate the induction of apoptosis. Withanolide mediated apoptosis was confirmed by immunoblotting showing increased expression of cleaved PARP and Caspases 3, 8 and 9 as a result of treatment. Overall, our results suggest that WTH and CoA have therapeutic potential against AML with WTH exhibiting more potent effects and should be explored further.
The Role of Ras-Associated Protein 1 (Rap1) in Cancer: Bad Actor or Good Player?
Authors: Looi Chin-King , Hii Ling-Wei , Ngai Siew Ching , Leong Chee-Onn , Mai Chun-Wai
Published: September 2020

Metastasis is known as the most life-threatening event in cancer patients. In principle, the immune system can prevent tumor development. However, dysfunctional T cells may fail to eliminate the tumor cells effectively and provide additional survival advantages for tumor proliferation and metastasis. Constitutive activation of Ras-associated protein1 (Rap1) has not only led to T cell anergy, but also inhibited autophagy and supported cancer progression through various oncogenic events. Inhibition of Rap1 activity with its negative regulator, Rap1GAP, impairs tumor progression. However, active Rap1 reduces tumor invasion in some cancers, indicating that the pleiotropic effects of Rap1 signaling in cancers could be cancer-specific. All in all, targeting Rap1 signaling and its regulators could potentially control carcinogenesis, metastasis, chemoresistance and immune evasion. Rap1GAP could be a promising therapeutic target in combating cancer.
Power Spectral Differences between Transient Epileptic and Global Amnesia: An eLORETA Quantitative EEG Study
Authors: Lanzone Jacopo , Imperatori Claudio , Assenza Giovanni , Ricci Lorenzo , Farina Benedetto , Di Lazzaro Vincenzo , Tombini Mario
Published: September 2020

Transient epileptic amnesia (TEA) is a rare epileptic condition, often confused with transient global amnesia (TGA). In a real-life scenario, differential diagnosis between these two conditions can be hard. In this study we use power spectral analysis empowered by exact Low Resolution Brain Electromagnetic Tomography (eLORETA) to evidence the differences between TEA and TGA. Fifteen patients affected by TEA (64.2 ± 5.2 y.o.; 11 female/4 male; 10 left and 5 right temporal epileptic focus) and 15 patients affected by TGA (65.8 ± 7.2 y.o.; 11 females/4 males) were retrospectively identified in our clinical records. All patients recorded EEGs after symptoms offset. EEGs were analyzed with eLORETA to evidence power spectral contrast between the two conditions. We used an inverse problem solution to localize the source of spectral differences. We found a significant increase in beta band power over the affected hemisphere of TEA patients. Significant results corresponded to the uncus and para-hippocampal gyrus, respectively Brodmann’s Areas: 36, 35, 28, 34. We present original evidence of an increase in beta power in the affected hemisphere (AH) of TEA as compared to TGA. These differences involve key areas of the memory network located in the mesial temporal lobe. Spectral asymmetries could be used in the future to recognize cases of amnesia with a high risk of epilepsy.
The Effects of Hypocapnia on Brain Tissue Pulsations
Authors: Alharbi Meshal , Turner Poppy , Ince Jonathan , Oura Mitsuhiro , Ebirim Kelechi U. , Almudayni Alanoud , Lecchini-Visintini Andrea , Minhas Jatinder S. , Chung Emma M.L.
Published: September 2020

Hypocapnia is known to affect patients with acute stroke and plays a key role in governing cerebral autoregulation. However, the impact of hypocapnia on brain tissue pulsations (BTPs) is relatively unexplored. As BTPs are hypothesised to result from cerebrovascular resistance to the inflow of pulsatile arterial blood, it has also been hypothesised that cerebral autoregulation changes mediated by hypocapnia will alter BTP amplitude. This healthy volunteer study reports measurements of BTPs obtained using transcranial tissue Doppler (TCTD). Thirty participants underwent hyperventilation to induce mild hypocapnia. BTP amplitude, EtCO2, blood pressure, and heart rate were then analysed to explore the impact of hypocapnia on BTP amplitude. Significant changes in BTP amplitude were noted during recovery from hypocapnia, but not during the hyperventilation manoeuvre itself. However, a significant increase in heart rate and pulse pressure and decrease in mean arterial pressure were also observed to accompany hypocapnia, which may have confounded our findings. Whilst further investigation is required, the results of this study provide a starting point for better understanding of the effects of carbon dioxide levels on BTPs. Further research in this area is needed to identify the major physiological drivers of BTPs and quantify their interactions with other aspects of cerebral haemodynamics.
Attitudes and Approaches to Use of Meal Replacement Products among Healthcare Professionals in Management of Excess Weight
Authors: Maston Gabrielle , Franklin Janet , Gibson Alice A. , Manson Elisa , Hocking Samantha , Sainsbury Amanda , Markovic Tania P.
Published: September 2020

Meal replacement product-based diets are an effective weight loss intervention used in the management of obesity. Historically, these diets have been underutilised by HealthCare Professionals (HCPs). An online survey of mixed methods design was distributed to HCPs to capture current perceptions and prescribing patterns of meal replacement products (MRPs) in the management of overweight and obesity. A total of 303 HCPs working in weight management across Australia began the survey and 197 (65%) completed it. While over 70% of HCPs have prescribed MRP currently or in the past, MRPs are only prescribed to a median 7% of patients seeking weight management treatment. Qualitative analysis identified potential barriers to MRP prescription, which include experience with patient non-compliance, perceived poor long-term weight loss durability and safety concerns regarding the product and its use as a total meal replacement program. Safety concerns are centred on the perceived risk of weight cycling and its potential negative psychological impact. MRP prescription is 66% more likely to occur if HCPs had formal training in the use of MRPs relative to those who did not, with a relative risk (RR) of 1.7 (95% CI 1.4, 2.0). This study highlights the potential barriers to the prescription of MRPs, which are centred around safety concerns. This also indicates that formal training may enhance the likelihood of prescribing MRPs, suggesting that once HCPs have a comprehensive understanding of the products and the evidence behind their use, their prescription is likely to be increased.
Natural Language Processing Model for Managing Maintenance Requests in Buildings
Authors: Bouabdallaoui Yassine , Lafhaj Zoubeir , Yim Pascal , Ducoulombier Laure , Bennadji Belkacem
Published: September 2020

In recent years, facility management (FM) has adopted many computer technology solutions for building maintenance, such as building information modelling (BIM) and computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS). However, maintenance requests management in buildings remains a manual and a time-consuming process that depends on human management. In this paper, a machine-learning algorithm based on natural language processing (NLP) is proposed to classify maintenance requests. This algorithm aims to assist the FM teams in managing day-to-day maintenance activities. A healthcare facility is addressed as a case study in this work. Ten-year maintenance records from the facility contributed to the design and development of the algorithm. Multiple NLP methods were used in this study, and the results reveal that the NLP model can classify work requests with an average accuracy of 78%. Furthermore, NLP methods have proven to be effective for managing unstructured text data.
CO Total and Preferential Oxidation over Stable Au/TiO2 Catalysts Derived from Preformed Au Nanoparticles
Authors: Divins Núria J. , López Eduardo , Angurell Inmaculada , Neuberg Stefan , Zapf Ralf , Kolb Gunther , Llorca Jordi
Published: September 2020

CO preferential oxidation (PROX) is an effective method to clean reformate H2 streams to feed low-temperature fuel cells. In this work, the PROX and CO oxidation reactions were studied on preformed Au nanoparticles (NPs) supported on TiO2 anatase. Preformed Au NPs were obtained from gold cores stabilized by dodecanethiols or trimethylsilane-dendrons. A well-controlled size of ca. 2.6 nm and narrow size distributions were achieved by this procedure. The catalysts were characterized by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy and ex situ and in situ X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The XPS results showed that the preformed Au NPs exhibited high thermal stability. The different ligand-derived Au catalysts, as well as a conventional gold catalyst for comparison purposes, were loaded onto cordierite supports with 400 cells per square inch. The activity and selectivity of the samples were evaluated for various operation conditions. The catalyst prepared using dodecanethiol-capped Au NPs showed the best performance. In fact, CO conversions of up to 70% at 40% CO2 selectivity and 90% O2 conversion were observed operating at 363 K in H2-rich atmospheres. The performance of the best catalysts was subsequently tested on stainless steel microreactors. A 500-hour stability test was carried out under a real post-reformate stream, including 18 vol.% CO2 and 29 vol.% H2O. A mean CO conversion of ca. 24% was measured for the whole test operating at 453 K and a gas hourly space velocity (GHSV) of 1.3 × 104 h−1. These results reveal our dodecanethiol- and carbosilane-derived Au catalysts as extremely promising candidates to conduct a PROX reaction while avoiding deactivation, which is one of the major drawbacks of Au/TiO2 catalysts.
Nuclear Heparanase Regulates Chromatin Remodeling, Gene Expression and PTEN Tumor Suppressor Function
Authors: Amin Rada , Tripathi Kaushlendra , Sanderson Ralph D.
Published: September 2020

Heparanase (HPSE) is an endoglycosidase that cleaves heparan sulfate and has been shown in various cancers to promote metastasis, angiogenesis, osteolysis, and chemoresistance. Although heparanase is thought to act predominantly extracellularly or within the cytoplasm, it is also present in the nucleus, where it may function in regulating gene transcription. Using myeloma cell lines, we report here that heparanase enhances chromatin accessibility and confirm a previous report that it also upregulates the acetylation of histones. Employing the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation CoMMpass database, we demonstrate that patients expressing high levels of heparanase display elevated expression of proteins involved in chromatin remodeling and several oncogenic factors compared to patients expressing low levels of heparanase. These signatures were consistent with the known function of heparanase in driving tumor progression. Chromatin opening and downstream target genes were abrogated by inhibition of heparanase. Enhanced levels of heparanase in myeloma cells led to a dramatic increase in phosphorylation of PTEN, an event known to stabilize PTEN, leading to its inactivity and loss of tumor suppressor function. Collectively, this study demonstrates that heparanase promotes chromatin opening and transcriptional activity, some of which likely is through its impact on diminishing PTEN tumor suppressor activity.
Uremic Toxins Affect Erythropoiesis during the Course of Chronic Kidney Disease: A Review
Authors: Hamza Eya , Metzinger Laurent , Metzinger-Le Meuth Valérie
Published: September 2020

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global health problem characterized by progressive kidney failure due to uremic toxicity and the complications that arise from it. Anemia consecutive to CKD is one of its most common complications affecting nearly all patients with end-stage renal disease. Anemia is a potential cause of cardiovascular disease, faster deterioration of renal failure and mortality. Erythropoietin (produced by the kidney) and iron (provided from recycled senescent red cells) deficiencies are the main reasons that contribute to CKD-associated anemia. Indeed, accumulation of uremic toxins in blood impairs erythropoietin synthesis, compromising the growth and differentiation of red blood cells in the bone marrow, leading to a subsequent impairment of erythropoiesis. In this review, we mainly focus on the most representative uremic toxins and their effects on the molecular mechanisms underlying anemia of CKD that have been studied so far. Understanding molecular mechanisms leading to anemia due to uremic toxins could lead to the development of new treatments that will specifically target the pathophysiologic processes of anemia consecutive to CKD, such as the newly marketed erythropoiesis-stimulating agents.
The Role of PARP1 in Monocyte and Macrophage Commitment and Specification: Future Perspectives and Limitations for the Treatment of Monocyte and Macrophage Relevant Diseases with PARP Inhibitors
Authors: Sobczak Maciej , Zyma Marharyta , Robaszkiewicz Agnieszka
Published: September 2020

Modulation of PARP1 expression, changes in its enzymatic activity, post-translational modifications, and inflammasome-dependent cleavage play an important role in the development of monocytes and numerous subtypes of highly specialized macrophages. Transcription of PARP1 is governed by the proliferation status of cells at each step of their development. Higher abundance of PARP1 in embryonic stem cells and in hematopoietic precursors supports their self-renewal and pluri-/multipotency, whereas a low level of the enzyme in monocytes determines the pattern of surface receptors and signal transducers that are functionally linked to the NFκB pathway. In macrophages, the involvement of PARP1 in regulation of transcription, signaling, inflammasome activity, metabolism, and redox balance supports macrophage polarization towards the pro-inflammatory phenotype (M1), which drives host defense against pathogens. On the other hand, it seems to limit the development of a variety of subsets of anti-inflammatory myeloid effectors (M2), which help to remove tissue debris and achieve healing. PARP inhibitors, which prevent protein ADP-ribosylation, and PARP1‒DNA traps, which capture the enzyme on chromatin, may allow us to modulate immune responses and the development of particular cell types. They can be also effective in the treatment of monocytic leukemia and other cancers by reverting the anti- to the proinflammatory phenotype in tumor-associated macrophages.
Structural Analysis of the BaWO4 Crystal Doped with Ce and Codoped with Na Ions Based on g-shift Parameters
Authors: Bodziony Tomasz , Kaczmarek Slawomir Maksymilian
Published: September 2020

The relationship between the g-shift and the local structure of the Ce3+ paramagnetic center with axial symmetry were investigated for four BaWO4 single crystals doped with Ce and codoped with Na. Based on g-shift the displacements of Ce3+ ions are determined. The g-shift method yields displacements of impurity ions in good agreement with the superposition model (SPM) and the perturbation methods (PM) predictions. The structural analysis of the paramagnetic ions and its surrounding in the BaWO4 unit cell was also conducted.
Assessing Sustainability of the Capital and Emerging Secondary Cities of Cambodia Based on the 2018 Commune Database
Authors: Chan Puthearath
Published: September 2020

The world is rapidly urbanizing which 68% of its population is expected to live in urban areas by 2050. Likewise, secondary cities of Cambodia are rapidly emerging while the capital is the largest city with a population of more than two million. Improving urban sustainability is, therefore, necessary for the world, as well as Cambodia. Thus, Cambodia has launched clean city standard indicators, proposed sectoral green city indicators, and adapted one target of global sustainable development goal 11 (UN SDG 11), to improve its urban quality and sustainability. However, using these indicators is not sufficient towards achieving urban sustainability because these indicators are limited in social and economic dimensions. Hence, this study aims to develop all dimensional indicators of sustainability based on all targets of UN SDG 11 with the above indicators. This study focused on the priorities of indicators in Cambodia verified and prioritized by Delphi and analytic hierarchy process (AHP) techniques. Then, a priority-based urban sustainability index for Cambodia was formed based on the concept of sustainability in developing countries. Finally, the standard scores were applied to comparatively assess the sustainability of capital and emerging secondary cities of Cambodia based on the 2018 Commune Database. Through this application, the study also sought to find out whether the priority weights of indicators are necessary for the comparative assessment. The results showed that the sustainability levels of Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville were found to be strong in all environmental, social, and economic dimensions. Battambang is also strong although economic sustainability is slightly lower than the average. Siem Reap is low in economic sustainability level while Poi Pet is remarkably low in environmental and social sustainability. Furthermore, the ranks of sustainability levels of the five cities based on weighted scores are different from their ranks based on unweighted scores. Therefore, this study confirms that priority weights of indicators are necessary for the comparative assessment towards improving the accuracy of the comparison.
UBE2C is a Potential Biomarker for Tumorigenesis and Prognosis in Tongue Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Liu Pei-Feng , Chen Chun-Feng , Shu Chih-Wen , Chang Hui-Min , Lee Cheng-Hsin , Liou Huei-Han , Ger Luo-Ping , Chen Chun-Lin , Kang Bor-Hwang
Published: September 2020

Ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme 2C (UBE2C) involves in numerous cellular processes and the tumor progression in many cancers. However, its role in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is unclear. We aimed to investigate the role and clinical significance of UBE2C in OSCC. The expression levels of UBE2C were examined by immunohistochemistry in 185 buccal mucosa squamous cell carcinomas, 247 tongue squamous cell carcinomas (TSCCs) and 75 lip squamous cell carcinomas. The roles of UBE2C in cell growth, invasion/migration and cancer stemness were also examined in OSCC cells. The expression levels of UBE2C protein were higher in tumor tissues than they were in the corresponding tumor adjacent normal tissues from OSCC patients. Higher UBE2C expression was associated with poor cell differentiation and lymph node invasion in OSCC patients. High UBE2C expression was also correlated with shorter disease-specific survival in TSCC patients having poor cell differentiation, advanced pathological stages, lymph node metastasis as well as receiving radiation therapy. Compared to control cells, OSCC cells in which UBE2C was silenced showed decreased cell proliferation, migration/invasion and colony formation and they exhibited lower expression levels of the following cancer stemness markers—ALDH1/A2, CD44, CD166 and EpCAM. High co-expression levels of UBE2C/CD44, UBE2C/CD166 and UBE2C/EpCAM were associated with poor prognosis in oral cancer patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas database. Our findings indicated that UBE2C might be a potential biomarker for tumorigenesis and prognosis in TSCC.
Determinants of the Cardiovascular Capacity of Amateur Long-Distance Skiers during the Transition Period
Authors: Grzebisz Natalia
Published: September 2020

The aim of this study was to identify determinants of the cardiovascular capacity of 16 male amateur long-distance skiers during the transition period. These factors can vary from amateur marathon skiers, who represent a sort of midpoint between inactive people and professional athletes. Cardiovascular capacity depends mainly on the volume and intensity of the training, which are different between these groups. Finding the factors affecting heart condition of amateur athletes can be an important element in their health care and can help the athletes to achieve their full performance potential. Therefore, ergospirometric and hematological tests were performed. As a result, predictors for volume oxygen uptake were determined using a regression model, which included the following variables: the percentage of monocytes (p = 0.031), the concentration of sodium (p = 0.004), and total calcium (p = 0.03). All these parameters negatively affected VO2 max. Biochemical and physiological monitoring of amateur athletes can help to protect their health and prepare them properly for their training. The growing popularity of long-distance competitions among middle-aged amateur athletes and the lack of guidance on how to assess their health indicate the need for further research.
Evaluation of Plasma Circulating Cell Free DNA Concentration and Integrity in Patients with Prostate Cancer in Jamaica: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Condappa Andrew , McGrowder Donovan , Aiken William , McLaughlin Wayne , Gossell-Williams Maxine
Published: September 2020

Background: Cell free circulating DNA (cfcDNA) is a promising diagnostic tool for prostate cancer (PCa). This study aimed to measure the cfcDNA concentration and integrity in PCa patients using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analysis. This study also assessed the correlation between these molecular biomarkers with total prostate-specific antigen (PSA), Gleason score, prostate volume, and age. Methods: Eleven PCa patients and 9 persons with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) were recruited. Blood samples were collected before prostate biopsy and plasma quantified by qPCR amplification of the ALU 115 DNA sequence, with the ratio of ALU 247 to ALU 115 reflecting cfcDNA integrity. Results: There were no significant differences in median, interquartile range (IQR) cfcDNA concentration or cfcDNA integrity between the patients with PCa (47.9 (214.93) ng/mL; 0.61 (0.49)) and persons with BPH (41.5 (55.13) ng/mL, p = 0.382; 0.67 (0.45), p = 0.342). A weakly positive correlation exists between cfcDNA concentration and total PSA (r = 0.200, p = 0.555) but not with age or Gleason score in PCa patients. Conclusion: cfcDNA concentration was relatively nonsignificantly higher in PCa patients in comparison to persons with BPH, whereas cfcDNA integrity was similar in both groups. Though limited in sample size, this study shows that cfcDNA concentration may be a potentially valuable noninvasive biomarker for the diagnosis of PCa.
Analysis of the Subgingival Microbiota in Implant-Supported Full-Arch Rehabilitations
Authors: Menini Maria , Delucchi Francesca , Bagnasco Francesco , Pera Francesco , Di Tullio Nicolò , Pesce Paolo
Published: September 2020

Background: The etiology of peri-implantitis is multifactorial, and it is not directly linked to the quantitative amount of plaque. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of subgingival microbiota around implants supporting full-arch restorations on clinical indexes of peri-implant health. Method: 47 patients (54 full-arch fixed rehabilitations) were included. Based on the highest value of probing depth (PD), 47 implants (in the test arch), 40 natural teeth and 7 implants (in the antagonist arch) were selected for microbiological sampling (traditional PCR and real-time PCR). Periodontal indexes (plaque index, PlI; probing depth, PD; bleeding on probing, BOP; peri-implant suppuration, PS) and marginal bone loss were also recorded. Results: Despite abundant plaque accumulation, the peri-implant parameters were within normal limits. No statistical difference was found in the microbial population around the test implants and antagonist natural teeth. Treponema denticola was present in a significantly higher amount around implants with increased PlI. Implants with increased BOP showed a significant increase in Treponema denticola and Tannerella forsythia. A significantly higher presence of Porphyromonas gingivalis, Treponema denticola and Tannerella forsythia was identified around the implants affected by peri-implantitis and in smokers. Conclusions: Peri-implantitis is characterized by a complex and polymicrobial disease, that might be influenced by the qualitative profile of plaque. Smoking might also favor implant biological complications in full-arch fixed prosthesis.
Monitoring the Own Spatial Thinking in Second Grade of Primary Education in a Spanish School: Preliminary Study Analyzing Gender Differences
Authors: Contreras María José , Meneghetti Chiara , Uttal David H. , Fernández-Méndez Laura M. , Rodán Antonio , Montoro Pedro R.
Published: September 2020

Previous studies on metacognitive performance have explored children’s abilities during primary school (7–11 years) in abstract and mathematical reasoning tasks. However, there have been no studies evaluating the metamemory processes with spatial tasks in primary school children, and even more generally, only a few studies have explored spatial metacognition in adults. Taking as a preliminary study a Spanish school, the present work explores the validity of the confidence judgment model when thinking about one’s own performance in a spatial test, for boys and girls in Second Year of Primary Education (mean age of 7 years). A total of 18 boys and 15 girls applied a 4-point scale to evaluate, item by item, the confidence of their responses in the Spatial aptitude test “E” of the EFAI-1 (Factorial Assessment of Intellectual Abilities to mentally process visual stimuli). Accessibility and Accuracy Indexes were calculated for each item of the spatial task. The effect of gender was analyzed too. The tasks were administered in small groups; at the end examiners interviewed each participant, performing the confidence judgment task, item by item, of the EFAI-1 previously answered. The results (analyses carried out by SPSS) showed a high mean confidence (3 mean points out of a maximum of 4), without finding any significant differences either in the spatial performance or in the mean confidence rating between boys and girls. A significant relationship between confidence judgments and spatial task performance accuracy was found. The relationship between confidence judgments and spatial performance cannot be confirmed. The procedure adapted for testing spatial judgments about the own responses has been useful for showing the well calibrated perception about performance at this stage. The implications of the results of this exploratory study and the potential of the application of the procedure to promote thought about one’s own spatial performance and the development of strategies that modulate the effective approach of this type of spatial tasks are discussed within an educational approach.
Closing the Wearable Gap-Part VII: A Retrospective of Stretch Sensor Tool Kit Development for Benchmark Testing
Authors: Talegaonkar Purva , Saucier David , Carroll Will , Peranich Preston , Parker Erin , Middleton Carver , Davarzani Samaneh , Turner Alana , Persons Karen , Casey Landon , Burch V Reuben F. , Ball John E. , Chander Harish , Knight Adam , Luczak Tony , Smith Brian K. , Prabhu R. K.
Published: September 2020

This paper presents a retrospective of the benchmark testing methodologies developed and accumulated into the stretch sensor tool kit (SSTK) by the research team during the Closing the Wearable Gap series of studies. The techniques developed to validate stretchable soft robotic sensors (SRS) as a means for collecting human kinetic and kinematic data at the foot-ankle complex and at the wrist are reviewed. Lessons learned from past experiments are addressed, as well as what comprises the current SSTK based on what the researchers learned over the course of multiple studies. Three core components of the SSTK are featured: (a) material testing tools, (b) data analysis software, and (c) data collection devices. Results collected indicate that the stretch sensors are a viable means for predicting kinematic data based on the most recent gait analysis study conducted by the researchers (average root mean squared error or RMSE = 3.63°). With the aid of SSTK defined in this study summary and shared with the academic community on GitHub, researchers will be able to undergo more rigorous validation methodologies of SRS validation. A summary of the current state of the SSTK is detailed and includes insight into upcoming experiments that will utilize more sophisticated techniques for fatigue testing and gait analysis, utilizing SRS as the data collection solution.
Introduction to the Special Issue: Policy for Low-Carbon Transformations
Authors: Dijk Marc , Kivimaa Paula
Published: September 2020

Gradual changes in energy and mobility systems in recent decades have triggered new and significant policy challenges [...]
Physicochemical and Functional Properties of Active Fish Gelatin-Based Edible Films Added with Aloe Vera Gel
Authors: Sánchez Jorge Trujillo , García Arantzazu Valdés , Martínez-Abad Antonio , Vilaplana Francisco , Jiménez Alfonso , Garrigós María Carmen
Published: September 2020

Edible films based on the addition of Aloe Vera gel (AV) into fish gelatin (FG) with antimicrobial and functional properties for food packaging applications were proposed in this work. AV showed an amphiphilic nature by infrared spectroscopy, high total phenolics content (TPC), antioxidant activity and thermal stability with an initial degradation temperature of 174 ± 2 °C. Mannose and glucose were quantified as main monosaccharides whereas the linkage composition study confirmed the presence of acemannan as main active polysaccharide. Three different formulations were obtained by the casting technique and the addition of AV contents of 0, 1 and 4 wt.% to FG, showing films with 4 wt.% of AV the best performance. The addition of AV did not significantly affect mechanical and barrier properties to oxygen and water vapour. However, some structural changes were observed by infrared spectroscopy and the obtained glass transition temperature values due to intermolecular interactions that increased the hydrophilicity and solubility of the resulting FG/AV films. A higher thermal stability was observed in films with AV content increasing the initial degradation and oxidation onset temperatures. An antimicrobial activity against S. aureus was also observed for FG/AV films. The addition of AV into FG could be proposed as a potential effective material to increase the postharvest quality of packed fruits and vegetables by retarding the microbial growth and extending the shelf-life of these food products.
(E)-Piplartine Isolated from Piper pseudoarboreum, a Lead Compound against Leishmaniasis
Authors: Ticona Juan C. , Bilbao-Ramos Pablo , Flores Ninoska , Dea-Ayuela M. Auxiliadora , Bolás-Fernández Francisco , Jiménez Ignacio A. , Bazzocchi Isabel L.
Published: September 2020

The current therapies of leishmaniasis, the second most widespread neglected tropical disease, have limited effectiveness and toxic side effects. In this regard, natural products play an important role in overcoming the current need for new leishmanicidal agents. The present study reports a bioassay-guided fractionation of the ethanolic extract of leaves of Piper pseudoarboreum against four species of Leishmania spp. promastigote forms, which afforded six known alkamides (1–6). Their structures were established on the basis of spectroscopic and spectrometric analysis. Compounds 2 and 3 were identified as the most promising ones, displaying higher potency against Leishmania spp. promastigotes (IC50 values ranging from 1.6 to 3.8 µM) and amastigotes of L. amazonensis (IC50 values ranging from 8.2 to 9.1 µM) than the reference drug, miltefosine. The efficacy of (E)-piplartine (3) against L. amazonensis infection in an in vivo model for cutaneous leishmaniasis was evidenced by a significant reduction of the lesion size footpad and spleen parasite burden, similar to those of glucantime used as the reference drug. This study reinforces the therapeutic potential of (E)-piplartine as a promising lead compound against neglected infectious diseases caused by Leishmania parasites.
Comparative Proteomics of Milk Fat Globule Membrane (MFGM) Proteome across Species and Lactation Stages and the Potentials of MFGM Fractions in Infant Formula Preparation
Authors: Manoni Michele , Di Lorenzo Chiara , Ottoboni Matteo , Tretola Marco , Pinotti Luciano
Published: September 2020

Milk is a lipid-in-water emulsion with a primary role in the nutrition of newborns. Milk fat globules (MFGs) are a mixture of proteins and lipids with nutraceutical properties related to the milk fat globule membrane (MFGM), which protects them, thus preventing their coalescence. Human and bovine MFGM proteomes have been extensively characterized in terms of their formation, maturation, and composition. Here, we review the most recent comparative proteomic analyses of MFGM proteome, above all from humans and bovines, but also from other species. The major MFGM proteins are found in all the MFGM proteomes of the different species, although there are variations in protein expression levels and molecular functions across species and lactation stages. Given the similarities between the human and bovine MFGM and the bioactive properties of MFGM components, several attempts have been made to supplement infant formulas (IFs), mainly with polar lipid fractions of bovine MFGM and to a lesser extent with protein fractions. The aim is thus to narrow the gap between human breast milk and cow-based IFs. Despite the few attempts made to date, supplementation with MFGM proteins seems promising as MFGM lipid supplementation. A deeper understanding of MFGM proteomes should lead to better results.
Short-Term X-ray Variability during Different Activity Phases of Blazars S5 0716+714 and PKS 2155-304
Authors: Kushwaha Pankaj , Pal Main
Published: September 2020

We explored the statistical properties of short-term X-ray variability using long-exposure XMM-Newton data during high X-ray variability phases of blazars S5 0716+714 and PKS 2155-304. In general, the hardness ratio shows correlated variations with the source flux state (count rate), but in a few cases, mainly the bright phases, the trend is complex with both correlation and anti-correlation, indicating spectral evolution. Stationarity tests suggest the time series are non-stationarity or have trend stationarity. Except for one, none of the histogram fits resulted in a reduced-χ2∼1 for a normal and log-normal profile but a normal profile is favored in general. On the contrary, the Anderson–Darling test favors log-normal with a test-statistic value lower for log-normal over normal for all the observations, even if out of significance limits. None of the IDs show linear RMS-flux relation. The contrary inferences from different widely used statistical methods indicate that a careful analysis is needed while the complex behavior of count rate with hardness ratio suggests spectral evolution over a few 10 s of kilo-seconds during bright phases of the sources. In these cases, the spectrum extracted from whole observation may not be meaningful for spectral studies and certainly not a true representation of the spectral state of the source.
Maternal Transmission Ratio Distortion in Two Iberian Pig Varieties
Authors: Vázquez-Gómez Marta , Hijas-Villalba Melani Martín de , Varona Luis , Ibañez-Escriche Noelia , Rosas Juan Pablo , Negro Sara , Noguera José Luis , Casellas Joaquim
Published: September 2020

Transmission ratio distortion (TRD) is defined as the allele transmission deviation from the heterozygous parent to the offspring from the expected Mendelian genotypic frequencies. Although TRD can be a confounding factor in genetic mapping studies, this phenomenon remains mostly unknown in pigs, particularly in traditional breeds (i.e., the Iberian pig). We aimed to describe the maternal TRD prevalence and its genomic distribution in two Iberian varieties. Genotypes from a total of 247 families (dam and offspring) of Entrepelado (n = 129) and Retinto (n = 118) Iberian varieties were analyzed. The offspring were sired by both ungenotyped purebred Retinto and Entrepelado Iberian boars, regardless of the dam variety used. After quality control, 16,246 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the Entrepelado variety and 9744 SNPs in the Retinto variety were analyzed. Maternal TRD was evaluated by a likelihood ratio test under SNP-by-SNP, adapting a previous model solved by Bayesian inference. Results provided 68 maternal TRD loci (TRDLs) in the Entrepelado variety and 24 in the Retinto variety (q < 0.05), with mostly negative TRD values, increasing the transmission of the minor allele. In addition, both varieties shared ten common TRDLs. No strong evidence of biological effects was found in genes with TRDLs. However, some biological processes could be affected by TRDLs, such as embryogenesis at different levels and lipid metabolism. These findings could provide useful insight into the genetic mechanisms to improve the swine industry, particularly in traditional breeds.