bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
miR-365 (microRNA): Potential Biomarker in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Exosomes and Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Coon Jeffery , Kingsley Karl , Howard Katherine M.
Published: July 2020

Introduction: miR-365 is a non-coding microRNA that regulates transcription and has been demonstrated to promote oncogenesis and metastasis in some cancers, while suppressing these effects in others. Many microRNAs are produced and then exported extracellularly in exosomes, which are small extracellular vesicles ranging from 30 to 100 nm that are found in eukaryotic fluids and facilitate many cellular functions. Exosomes and extracellular vesicles are produced by many cell types, including oral cancer cells—although no study to date has evaluated miR-365 and oral cancer exosomes or extracellular vesicles. Based on this information, our research question was to evaluate whether oral cancers produce exosomes or extracellular vesicles containing miR-365. Materials and Methods: Two commercially available oral cancer cell lines (SCC25 and CAL27) and a normal oral keratinocyte (OKF4) were grown in serum-free media, supplemented with exosome-depleted fetal bovine serum. Extracellular vesicles and exosomes were then isolated using the Invitrogen total exosome RNA and protein isolation kit for processing using the hsa-miR-365a-5p microRNA qPCR assay kit. Results: RNA was successfully isolated from the exosome-depleted supernatant from each cell line—SCC9, SCC15, SCC25, and CAL27 (oral squamous cell carcinomas) and OKF4 (oral epithelial cell line). Relative concentrations of RNA were similar among each cell line, which were not significantly different, p = 0.233. RNA quality was established by A260:A280 absorbance using a NanoDrop, revealing purity ranging 1.73–1.86. Expression of miR-16 was used to confirm the presence of microRNA from the extracted exosomes and extracellular vesicles. The presence of miR-365 was then confirmed and normalized to miR-16 expression, which demonstrated an increased level of miR-365 in both CAL27 and SCC25. In addition, the normalized relative quantity (RQ) for miR-365 exhibited greater variation among SCC25 (1.382–4.363) than CAL27 cells (1.248–1.536). Conclusions: These results confirm that miR-365 is not only expressed in oral cancer cell lines, but also is subsequently exported into exosomes and extracellular vesicles derived from these cultures. These data may help to contextualize the potential for this microRNA to contribute to the phenotypes and behaviors of oral cancers that express this microRNA. Future research will begin to investigate these potential mechanisms and pathways and to determine if miR-365 may be useful as an oral cancer biomarker for salivary or liquid biopsies.
Melatonin Suppresses Renal Cortical Fibrosis by Inhibiting Cytoskeleton Reorganization and Mitochondrial Dysfunction through Regulation of miR-4516
Authors: Yoon Yeo Min , Go Gyeongyun , Yun Chul Won , Lim Ji Ho , Lee Jun Hee , Lee Sang Hun
Published: July 2020

Renal fibrosis, a major risk factor for kidney failure, can lead to chronic kidney disease (CKD) and is caused by cytoskeleton reorganization and mitochondrial dysfunction. In this study, we investigated the potential of melatonin treatment to reduce renal fibrosis by recovering the cytoskeleton reorganization and mitochondrial dysfunction. We found that miR-4516 expression was downregulated in the renal cortex of CKD mice and P-cresol-treated TH1 cells. Decreased miR-4516 expression stimulated cytoskeleton reorganization and mitochondrial dysfunction, and induced renal fibrosis. Melatonin treatment suppressed fibrosis by inhibiting cytoskeleton reorganization and restoring mitochondrial function via increased miR-4516 expression. More specifically, melatonin treatment increased miR-4516 expression while decreasing ITGA9 expression, thereby inhibiting cytoskeleton reorganization. In addition, increased expression of miR-4516 by melatonin treatment reduced ROS formation and restored mitochondrial function. These findings suggest that melatonin may be a promising treatment for patients with CKD having renal fibrosis. Moreover, regulation of miR-4516 expression may be a novel strategy for the treatment of renal fibrosis.
Rapha Myr®, a Blend of Sulforaphane and Myrosinase, Exerts Antitumor and Anoikis-Sensitizing Effects on Human Astrocytoma Cells Modulating Sirtuins and DNA Methylation
Authors: Tomasello Barbara , Di Mauro Maria Domenica , Malfa Giuseppe Antonio , Acquaviva Rosaria , Sinatra Fulvia , Spampinato Giorgia , Laudani Samuele , Villaggio Giusy , Bielak-Zmijewska Anna , Grabowska Wioleta , Barbagallo Ignazio Alberto , Liuzzo Maria Teresa , Sbisà Elisabetta , Forte Maria Grazia , Di Giacomo Claudia , Bonucci Massimo , Renis Marcella
Published: July 2020

Brain and other nervous system cancers are the 10th leading cause of death worldwide. Genome instability, cell cycle deregulation, epigenetic mechanisms, cytoarchitecture disassembly, redox homeostasis as well as apoptosis are involved in carcinogenesis. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables is inversely related with the risk of developing cancer. Several studies report that cruciferous vegetables exhibited antiproliferative effects due to the multi-pharmacological functions of their secondary metabolites such as isothiocyanate sulforaphane deriving from the enzymatic hydrolysis of glucosinolates. We treated human astrocytoma 1321N1 cells for 24 h with different concentrations (0.5, 1.25 and 2.5% v/v) of sulforaphane plus active myrosinase (Rapha Myr®) aqueous extract (10 mg/mL). Cell viability, DNA fragmentation, PARP-1 and γH2AX expression were examined to evaluate genotoxic effects of the treatment. Cell cycle progression, p53 and p21 expression, apoptosis, cytoskeleton morphology and cell migration were also investigated. In addition, global DNA methylation, DNMT1 mRNA levels and nuclear/mitochondrial sirtuins were studied as epigenetic biomarkers. Rapha Myr® exhibited low antioxidant capability and exerted antiproliferative and genotoxic effects on 1321N1 cells by blocking the cell cycle, disarranging cytoskeleton structure and focal adhesions, decreasing the integrin α5 expression, renewing anoikis and modulating some important epigenetic pathways independently of the cellular p53 status. In addition, Rapha Myr® suppresses the expression of the oncogenic p53 mutant protein. These findings promote Rapha Myr® as a promising chemotherapeutic agent for integrated cancer therapy of human astrocytoma.
RORγ Structural Plasticity and Druggability
Authors: Huang Mian , Bolin Shelby , Miller Hannah , Ng Ho Leung
Published: July 2020

Retinoic acid receptor-related orphan receptor γ (RORγ) is a transcription factor regulating the expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-17 in human T helper 17 (Th17) cells. Activating RORγ can induce multiple IL-17-mediated autoimmune diseases but may also be useful for anticancer therapy. Its deep immunological functions make RORɣ an attractive drug target. Over 100 crystal structures have been published describing atomic interactions between RORɣ and agonists and inverse agonists. In this review, we focus on the role of dynamic properties and plasticity of the RORɣ orthosteric and allosteric binding sites by examining structural information from crystal structures and simulated models. We discuss the possible influences of allosteric ligands on the orthosteric binding site. We find that high structural plasticity favors the druggability of RORɣ, especially for allosteric ligands.
ALIAmides Update: Palmitoylethanolamide and Its Formulations on Management of Peripheral Neuropathic Pain
Authors: D’Amico Ramona , Impellizzeri Daniela , Cuzzocrea Salvatore , Di Paola Rosanna
Published: July 2020

Neuropathic pain results from lesions or diseases of the somatosensory nervous system and it remains largely difficult to treat. Peripheral neuropathic pain originates from injury to the peripheral nervous system (PNS) and manifests as a series of symptoms and complications, including allodynia and hyperalgesia. The aim of this review is to discuss a novel approach on neuropathic pain management, which is based on the knowledge of processes that underlie the development of peripheral neuropathic pain; in particular highlights the role of glia and mast cells in pain and neuroinflammation. ALIAmides (autacoid local injury antagonist amides) represent a group of endogenous bioactive lipids, including palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), which play a central role in numerous biological processes, including pain, inflammation, and lipid metabolism. These compounds are emerging thanks to their anti-inflammatory and anti-hyperalgesic effects, due to the down-regulation of activation of mast cells. Collectively, preclinical and clinical studies support the idea that ALIAmides merit further consideration as therapeutic approach for controlling inflammatory responses, pain, and related peripheral neuropathic pain.
PTEN Function at the Interface between Cancer and Tumor Microenvironment: Implications for Response to Immunotherapy
Authors: Conciatori Fabiana , Bazzichetto Chiara , Falcone Italia , Ciuffreda Ludovica , Ferretti Gianluigi , Vari Sabrina , Ferraresi Virginia , Cognetti Francesco , Milella Michele
Published: July 2020

Mounting preclinical and clinical evidence indicates that rewiring the host immune system in favor of an antitumor microenvironment achieves remarkable clinical efficacy in the treatment of many hematological and solid cancer patients. Nevertheless, despite the promising development of many new and interesting therapeutic strategies, many of these still fail from a clinical point of view, probably due to the lack of prognostic and predictive biomarkers. In that respect, several data shed new light on the role of the tumor suppressor phosphatase and tensin homolog on chromosome 10 (PTEN) in affecting the composition and function of the tumor microenvironment (TME) as well as resistance/sensitivity to immunotherapy. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on PTEN functions in different TME compartments (immune and stromal cells) and how they can modulate sensitivity/resistance to different immunological manipulations and ultimately influence clinical response to cancer immunotherapy.
Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors: Could They Be Beneficial for the Treatment of COVID-19?
Authors: Giorgi Mauro , Cardarelli Silvia , Ragusa Federica , Saliola Michele , Biagioni Stefano , Poiana Giancarlo , Naro Fabio , Massimi Mara
Published: July 2020

In March 2020, the World Health Organization declared the severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 (SARS-CoV2) infection to be a pandemic disease. SARS-CoV2 was first identified in China and, despite the restrictive measures adopted, the epidemic has spread globally, becoming a pandemic in a very short time. Though there is growing knowledge of the SARS-CoV2 infection and its clinical manifestations, an effective cure to limit its acute symptoms and its severe complications has not yet been found. Given the worldwide health and economic emergency issues accompanying this pandemic, there is an absolute urgency to identify effective treatments and reduce the post infection outcomes. In this context, phosphodiesterases (PDEs), evolutionarily conserved cyclic nucleotide (cAMP/cGMP) hydrolyzing enzymes, could emerge as new potential targets. Given their extended distribution and modulating role in nearly all organs and cellular environments, a large number of drugs (PDE inhibitors) have been developed to control the specific functions of each PDE family. These PDE inhibitors have already been used in the treatment of pathologies that show clinical signs and symptoms completely or partially overlapping with post-COVID-19 conditions (e.g., thrombosis, inflammation, fibrosis), while new PDE-selective or pan-selective inhibitors are currently under study. This review discusses the state of the art of the different pathologies currently treated with phosphodiesterase inhibitors, highlighting the numerous similarities with the disorders linked to SARS-CoV2 infection, to support the hypothesis that PDE inhibitors, alone or in combination with other drugs, could be beneficial for the treatment of COVID-19.
UP256 Inhibits Hyperpigmentation by Tyrosinase
Expression/Dendrite Formation via Rho-Dependent
Signaling and by Primary Cilium Formation
in Melanocytes
Authors: Kang Min Cheol , Lee Jae-Wook , Lee Taek Hwan , Subedi Lalita , Wahedi Hussain M. , Do Seon-Gil , Shin Eunju , Moon Eun-Yi , Kim Sun Yeou
Published: July 2020

Skin hyperpigmentation is generally characterized by increased synthesis and deposition of melanin in the skin. UP256, containing bakuchiol, is a well-known medication for acne vulgaris. Acne sometimes leaves dark spots on the skin, and we hypothesized that UP256 may be effective against hyperpigmentation-associated diseases. UP256 was treated for anti-melanogenesis and melanocyte dendrite formation in cultured normal human epidermal melanocytes as well as in the reconstituted skin and zebrafish models. Western blot analysis and glutathione S-transferase (GST)-pull down assays were used to evaluate the expression and interaction of enzymes related in melanin synthesis and transportation. The cellular tyrosinase activity and melanin content assay revealed that UP256 decreased melanin synthesis by regulating the expression of proteins related on melanogenesis including tyrosinase, TRP-1 and -2, and SOX9. UP256 also decreased dendrite formation in melanocytes via regulating the Rac/Cdc42/α-PAK signaling proteins, without cytotoxic effects. UP256 also inhibited ciliogenesis-dependent melanogenesis in normal human epidermal melanocytes. Furthermore, UP256 suppressed melanin contents in the zebrafish and the 3D human skin tissue model. All things taken together, UP256 inhibits melanin synthesis, dendrite formation, and primary cilium formation leading to the inhibition of melanogenesis.
Molecular Mechanism Contributing to Malnutrition and Sarcopenia in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis
Authors: Meyer Fatuma , Bannert Karen , Wiese Mats , Esau Susanne , Sautter Lea F. , Ehlers Luise , Aghdassi Ali A. , Metges Cornelia C. , Garbe Leif-A. , Jaster Robert , Lerch Markus M. , Lamprecht Georg , Valentini Luzia
Published: July 2020

Liver cirrhosis is frequently accompanied by disease-related malnutrition (DRM) and sarcopenia, defined as loss of skeletal muscle mass and function. DRM and sarcopenia often coexist in cirrhotic patients and are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. The clinical manifestation of both comorbidities are triggered by multifactorial mechanisms including reduced nutrient and energy intake caused by dietary restrictions, anorexia, neuroendocrine deregulation, olfactory and gustatory deficits. Maldigestion and malabsorption due to small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, pancreatic insufficiency or cholestasis may also contribute to DRM and sarcopenia. Decreased protein synthesis and increased protein degradation is the cornerstone mechanism to muscle loss, among others mediated by disease- and inflammation-mediated metabolic changes, hyperammonemia, increased myostatin and reduced human growth hormone. The concise pathophysiological mechanisms and interactions of DRM and sarcopenia in liver cirrhosis are not completely understood. Furthermore, most knowledge in this field are based on experimental models, but only few data in humans exist. This review summarizes known and proposed molecular mechanisms contributing to malnutrition and sarcopenia in liver cirrhosis and highlights remaining knowledge gaps. Since, in the prevention and treatment of DRM and sarcopenia in cirrhotic patients, more research is needed to identify potential biomarkers for diagnosis and development of targeted therapeutic strategies.
Role of the Ubiquitin Proteasome System in the Regulation of Blood Pressure: A Review
Authors: Yamazaki Osamu , Hirohama Daigoro , Ishizawa Kenichi , Shibata Shigeru
Published: July 2020

The kidney and the vasculature play crucial roles in regulating blood pressure. The ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS), a multienzyme process mediating covalent conjugation of the 76-amino acid polypeptide ubiquitin to a substrate protein followed by proteasomal degradation, is involved in multiple cellular processes by regulating protein turnover in various tissues. Increasing evidence demonstrates the roles of UPS in blood pressure regulation. In the kidney, filtered sodium is reabsorbed through diverse sodium transporters and channels along renal tubules, and studies conducted till date have provided insights into the complex molecular network through which ubiquitin ligases modulate sodium transport in different segments. Components of these pathways include ubiquitin ligase neuronal precursor cell-expressed developmentally downregulated 4-2, Cullin-3, and Kelch-like 3. Moreover, accumulating data indicate the roles of UPS in blood vessels, where it modulates nitric oxide bioavailability and vasoconstriction. Cullin-3 not only regulates renal salt reabsorption but also controls vascular tone using different adaptor proteins that target distinct substrates in vascular smooth muscle cells. In endothelial cells, UPS can also contribute to blood pressure regulation by modulating endothelial nitric oxide synthase. In this review, we summarize current knowledge regarding the role of UPS in blood pressure regulation, focusing on renal sodium reabsorption and vascular function.
Small Extracellular Vesicles Isolated from Serum May Serve as Signal-Enhancers for the Monitoring of CNS Tumors
Authors: Dobra Gabriella , Bukva Matyas , Szabo Zoltan , Bruszel Bella , Harmati Maria , Gyukity-Sebestyen Edina , Jenei Adrienn , Szucs Monika , Horvath Peter , Biro Tamas , Klekner Almos , Buzas Krisztina
Published: July 2020

Liquid biopsy-based methods to test biomarkers (e.g., serum proteins and extracellular vesicles) may help to monitor brain tumors. In this proteomics-based study, we aimed to identify a characteristic protein fingerprint associated with central nervous system (CNS) tumors. Overall, 96 human serum samples were obtained from four patient groups, namely glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), non-small-cell lung cancer brain metastasis (BM), meningioma (M) and lumbar disc hernia patients (CTRL). After the isolation and characterization of small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) by nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) and atomic force microscopy (AFM), liquid chromatography -mass spectrometry (LC-MS) was performed on two different sample types (whole serum and serum sEVs). Statistical analyses (ratio, Cohen’s d, receiver operating characteristic; ROC) were carried out to compare patient groups. To recognize differences between the two sample types, pairwise comparisons (Welch’s test) and ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA) were performed. According to our knowledge, this is the first study that compares the proteome of whole serum and serum-derived sEVs. From the 311 proteins identified, 10 whole serum proteins and 17 sEV proteins showed the highest intergroup differences. Sixty-five proteins were significantly enriched in sEV samples, while 129 proteins were significantly depleted compared to whole serum. Based on principal component analysis (PCA) analyses, sEVs are more suitable to discriminate between the patient groups. Our results support that sEVs have greater potential to monitor CNS tumors, than whole serum.
Evaluation of Mussel Shells Powder as Reinforcement for PLA-Based Biocomposites
Authors: Gigante Vito , Cinelli Patrizia , Righetti Maria Cristina , Sandroni Marco , Tognotti Leonardo , Seggiani Maurizia , Lazzeri Andrea
Published: July 2020

The use of biopolyesters, as polymeric matrices, and natural fillers derived from wastes or by-products of food production to achieve biocomposites is nowadays a reality. The present paper aims to valorize mussel shells, 95% made of calcium carbonate (CaCO3), converting them into high-value added products. The objective of this work was to verify if CaCO3, obtained from Mediterranean Sea mussel shells, can be used as filler for a compostable matrix made of Polylactic acid (PLA) and Poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT). Thermal, mechanical, morphological and physical properties of these biocomposites were evaluated, and the micromechanical mechanism controlling stiffness and strength was investigated by analytical predictive models. The performances of these biocomposites were comparable with those of biocomposites produced with standard calcium carbonate. Thus, the present study has proved that the utilization of a waste, such as mussel shell, can become a resource for biocomposites production, and can be an effective option for further industrial scale-up.
Copepod Community Structure in Pre- and Post- Winter Conditions in the Southern Adriatic Sea (NE Mediterranean)
Authors: Hure Marijana , Batistić Mirna , Kovačević Vedrana , Bensi Manuel , Garić Rade
Published: July 2020

Copepod communities were studied along an east-west transect in the oligotrophic Southern Adriatic Sea. This dynamic region is under the influence of various physical forces, including winter vertical convection, lateral exchanges between coastal and open sea waters, and ingression of water masses of different properties all of which occurred during the investigation periods. Depth-stratified samples were taken with a Nansen net (250 µm mesh size) in pre- and post-winter conditions in 2015/2016. In December, the coastal copepod community was limited over the western flank, while epipelagic waters of the open and eastern waters were characterized by high diversity, low abundances in the central area, and subsurface/upper mesopelagic copepod species. In April, higher abundances were recorded over the entire vertical profile with the surface coastal copepod community present through the entire transect. Higher abundances in the central area during the post-winter period are probably a consequence of late-winter/early spring blooms near the center of the Southern Adriatic. Mesopelagic fauna of both months was characterized by high abundances of Haloptilus longicornis, characteristic species of the eastern Mediterranean, whose larger presence was favored by the cyclonic phase of the North Ionian Gyre and a consequent strong Levantine Intermediate Water ingression.
Analysis and Optimization of Atmospheric Drain Tank of Lng Carrier Steam Power Plant
Authors: Poljak Igor , Bielić Toni , Mrzljak Vedran , Orović Josip
Published: July 2020

The atmospheric drain condensate system of a marine steam power plant is described and evaluated from the energetic and exergetic point of view at a conventional liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier. Energy loss and exergy destruction rate were calculated for individual stream flows joined in an atmospheric drain tank with variations of the main turbine propulsion speed rate. The energy efficiency of joining streams was noted to be above 98% at all observed points as the atmospheric drain tank was the direct heater. The exergy efficiency of the stream flows into the drain tank was in the range of 80% to 90%. The exergy stream flow to the tank was modeled and optimized by the gradient reduced gradient (GRG) method. Optimization variables comprised contaminated and clean condensate temperature of the atmospheric drain tank and distillate water inlet to the atmospheric drain tank with respect to condensate outlet temperature. The optimal temperatures improves the exergy efficiency of the tank as direct heater, to about 5% in port and 3% to 4% when the LNG carrier was at sea, which is the aim of optimizing. Proposals for improvement and recommendations are given for proper plant supervision, which may be implemented in real applications.
Firm Size Does Matter: New Evidence on the Determinants of Cash Holdings
Authors: Magerakis Efstathios , Gkillas Konstantinos , Tsagkanos Athanasios , Siriopoulos Costas
Published: July 2020

We study the financial determinants of cash holdings and discuss the importance of firm size in the post-crisis period. We employ panel data regression analysis on a sample of 6629 non-financial and non-utility listed companies in the United Kingdom from 2010 to 2018. We focus on the comparative analysis of large, medium, and small size firms in terms of cash holdings. Our findings indicate that cash levels are higher for firms with riskier cash flows, more growth opportunities, and higher R&D expenditures. In contrast, the firms’ cash holdings decrease when the substitutes of cash, cash flows, and capital expenditures increase. We show that small-sized firms tend to hold more cash than their larger counterparts due to precautionary motives. Further, we confirm a significant and varying association between managerial ownership and cash holdings. The study is robust to different regression specifications, additional analyses, and endogeneity tests. Overall, we add to the prior literature by identifying the effect of firm-level attributes and governance characteristics on cash policy during the post-crisis period. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first work that provides insights on the way that firm characteristics impact cash holdings, considering the differences among firm size groupings.
The Spillover Effects of the US Unconventional Monetary Policy: New Evidence from Asian Developing Countries
Authors: Tran Thi , Pham Hoang
Published: July 2020

This paper aims to trace the monthly responses of equity prices, long-term interest rates, and exchange rates in Asian developing markets to the US unconventional monetary policy (UMP). The main research question is to explore whether UMP shocks exist in those markets. We also consider the differences in the mean responses of those asset prices between traditional and non-traditional monetary policy phases. To address such concerns, we employ a panel vector autoregression with exogenous variables (Panel VARX) model and estimate the model by the least-squares dummy variable (LSDV) estimator in three different periods spanning from 2004M2 to 2018M4. The first finding is that UMP shocks from the US are associated with a surge in equity prices, a decline in long-term interest rates, and an appreciation of currencies in Asian developing markets. In contrast, the conventional monetary policy shocks from the US seem to exert adverse effects on these recipient countries. These empirical results suggest that the policymakers in Asian developing countries should cautiously take into account the spillover effects from the US unconventional monetary policy once it is executed.
A Fourth Order Energy Dissipative Scheme for a Traffic Flow Model
Authors: Chen Xiaowei , Song Mingzhan , Song Songhe
Published: July 2020

We propose, analyze and numerically validate a new energy dissipative scheme for the Ginzburg–Landau equation by using the invariant energy quadratization approach. First, the Ginzburg–Landau equation is transformed into an equivalent formulation which possesses the quadratic energy dissipation law. After the space-discretization of the Fourier pseudo-spectral method, the semi-discrete system is proved to be energy dissipative. Using diagonally implicit Runge–Kutta scheme, the semi-discrete system is integrated in the time direction. Then the presented full-discrete scheme preserves the energy dissipation, which is beneficial to the numerical stability in long-time simulations. Several numerical experiments are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed scheme and verify the theoretical analysis.
De Novo Transcriptome Assembly and Gene Expression Profiling of the Copepod Calanus helgolandicus Feeding on the PUA-Producing Diatom Skeletonema marinoi
Authors: Asai Sneha , Sanges Remo , Lauritano Chiara , Lindeque Penelope K. , Esposito Francesco , Ianora Adrianna , Carotenuto Ylenia
Published: July 2020

Diatoms are the dominant component of the marine phytoplankton. Several diatoms produce secondary metabolites, namely oxylipins, with teratogenic effects on their main predators, crustacean copepods. Our study reports the de novo assembled transcriptome of the calanoid copepod Calanus helgolandicus feeding on the oxylipin-producing diatom Skeletonema marinoi. Differential expression analysis was also performed between copepod females exposed to the diatom and the control flagellate Prorocentrum minimum, which does not produce oxylipins. Our results showed that transcripts involved in carbohydrate, amino acid, folate and methionine metabolism, embryogenesis, and response to stimulus were differentially expressed in the two conditions. Expression of 27 selected genes belonging to these functional categories was also analyzed by RT-qPCR in C. helgolandicus females exposed to a mixed solution of the oxylipins heptadienal and octadienal at the concentration of 10 µM, 15 µM, and 20 µM. The results confirmed differential expression analysis, with up-regulation of genes involved in stress response and down-regulation of genes associated with folate and methionine metabolism, embryogenesis, and signaling. Overall, we offer new insights on the mechanism of action of oxylipins on maternally-induced embryo abnormality. Our results may also help identify biomarker genes associated with diatom-related reproductive failure in the natural copepod population at sea.
Pyrogallol-Phloroglucinol-6,6-Bieckolon Attenuates Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Proliferation and Phenotype Switching in Hyperlipidemia through Modulation of Chemokine Receptor 5
Authors: Oh Seyeon , Son Myeongjoo , Park Chul-Hyun , Jang Ji Tae , Son Kuk Hui , Byun Kyunghee
Published: July 2020

Hyperlipidemia induces vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation and phenotype switching from contractile to synthetic. This process is involved in arterial remodeling via the chemokine ligand 5 (CCL5)/chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5) pathway. Arterial remodeling is related to atherosclerosis or intimal hyperplasia. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether pyrogallol-phloroglucinol-6,6-bieckol (PPB) from E. cava reduces VSMC proliferation and phenotype switching via the CCL5/CCR5 pathway. The CCL5/CCR5 expression, VSMC proliferation and phenotypic alterations were evaluated using a cell model of VSMC exposed in hyperlipidemia, and an animal model of mice fed a high-fat-diet (HFD). The expression of CCL5/CCR5 increased in both the cell and animal models of hyperlipidemia. Treatment with PPB decreased CCL5/CCR5 expression in both models. The expression of contractile markers of VSMCs, including alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), smooth muscle myosin heavy chain (SM-MHC), and smooth muscle protein 22 alpha (SM22α), were decreased by hyperlipidemia and restored after treatment with PPB. The silencing of CCR5 attenuated the effects of PPB treatment. VSMC proliferation and the intima-media thickness of the aortas, increased with HFD and decreased after treatment with PPB. The VSMC proliferation ratio and messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) expression of cell cycle regulatory factors increased in the in vitro model and were restored after treatment with PPB. PPB treatment reduced VSMC proliferation and phenotype switching induced by hyperlipidemia through inhibition of the CCL5/CCR5 pathway.
Application of Stray Magnetic Field for Monitoring the Wear Degree in Steel Components of the Lift Guide Rail System
Authors: Lonkwic Poul , Krakowski Tomasz , Ruta Hubert
Published: July 2020

This paper presents the results of forced wear simulation of the friction lift guide rails. The forced wear in the case discussed is an effect of plastic strain of the guide rail surface due to emergency braking of the lift. For the purpose of qualitative and quantitative assessment of wear, the authors applied the numerical simulation of a stray magnetic field. Application of this method allowed evaluating the degree of wear based on the stray field changes. Application of this simulation method allowed obtaining satisfactory results of qualitative and quantitative assessment of the guide rail wear. The intention of this paper was to prove that the permanent magnetic field and the stray field can be applied for the efficient detection of the steel guide rail damages and to verify the possibility of making the quantitative assessment related to the guide rail wear degree versus the personal lift service life.
Mechanical Strengthening in S235JR Steel Sheets through Vibration-Assisted Ball Burnishing
Authors: Llumà Jordi , Gómez-Gras Giovanni , Jerez-Mesa Ramón , Rue-Mascarell Jaume , Travieso-Rodriguez J. Antonio
Published: July 2020

The superficial effect of hardening caused after vibration-assisted ball burnishing and its consequences in the tensile behavior of a carbon steel material are studied in this paper. As ball burnishing affects the material to hundredths of micrometers in depth through plastic deformation, the overall macro effect of this modification was studied. Different levels of preload and vibration amplitude were studied to address the described issue. The study was done in two phases. First of all, the depth to which ball burnishing affects the material was studied by performing Vickers indentation tests with different loads. It was proven that the effects of ball burnishing are best represented when a 0.05 kg load is used, as higher loads include more volume of core material in the measurement, hence hiding the effect of ball burnishing. In a second phase, the ball burnished specimens were subjected to tensile tests. It was proven that an increase of burnishing preload diminishes the ductile behavior of the material and increases its strength representative values, although the proportion of affected material in the cross-section of the specimen is reduced with regard to the whole surface. Additionally, as the preload increases, the effects of assistance through vibrations is reduced, and the effect of the static preload acquires more relevance in modifying the macroscopic mechanical properties of the steel alloy. Experiments using different amplitudes and new forces are encouraged to obtain more information about how the material can be modified optimally through vibration-assisted ball burnishing.
Multidrug-Resistant Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli Strains and Association of Their Virulence Genes in Bangladesh
Authors: Saha Otun , Hoque M. Nazmul , Islam Ovinu Kibria , Rahaman Md. Mizanur , Sultana Munawar , Hossain M. Anwar
Published: July 2020

The avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) strains are the chief etiology of colibacillosis worldwide. The present study investigated the circulating phylotypes, existence of virulence genes (VGs), and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in 392 APEC isolates, obtained from 130 samples belonged to six farms using both phenotypic and PCR-based molecular approaches. Congo red binding (CRB) assay confirmed 174 APEC isolates which were segregated into ten, nine, and eight distinct genotypes by RAPD assay (discriminatory index, DI = 0.8707), BOX-PCR (DI = 0.8591) and ERIC-PCR (DI = 0.8371), respectively. The combination of three phylogenetic markers (chuA, yjaA and DNA fragment TspE4.C2) classified APEC isolates into B23 (37.36%), A1 (33.91%), D2 (11.49%), B22 (9.20%), and B1 (8.05%) phylotypes. Majority of the APEC isolates (75–100%) harbored VGs (ial, fimH, crl, papC, and cjrC). These VGs (papC and cjrC) and phylotypes (D2 and B2) of APEC had significant (p = 0.004) association with colibacillosis. Phylogenetic analysis showed two distinct clades (clade A and clade B) of APEC, where clade A had 98–100% similarity with E. coli APEC O78 and E. coli EHEC strains, and clade B had closest relationship with E. coli O169:H41 strain. Interestingly, phylogroups B2 and D2 were found in the APEC strains of both clades, while the strains from phylogroups A1 and B1 were found in clade A only. In this study, 81.71% of the isolates were biofilm formers, and possessed plasmids of varying ranges (1.0 to 54 kb). In vitro antibiogram profiling revealed that 100% isolates were resistant to ≥3 antibiotics, of which 61.96%, 55.24%, 53.85%, 51.16% and 45.58% isolates in phylotypes B1, D2, B22, B23, and A1, respectively, were resistant to these antimicrobials. The resistance patterns varied among different phylotypes, notably in phylotype B22, showing the highest resistance to ampicillin (90.91%), nalidixic acid (90.11%), tetracycline (83.72%), and nitrofurantoin (65.12%). Correspondence analysis also showed significant correlation among phylotypes with CRB (p = 0.008), biofilm formation (p = 0.02), drug resistance (p = 0.03), and VGs (p = 0.06). This report demonstrated that B2 and A1 phylotypes are dominantly circulating APEC phylotypes in Bangladesh; however, B2 and D2 are strongly associated with the pathogenicity. A high prevalence of antibiotic-resistant APEC strains from different phylotypes suggest the use of organic antimicrobial compounds, and/or metals, and the rotational use of antibiotics in poultry farms in Bangladesh.
Isolation, Characterization, and Pathogenicity of Two Pseudomonas syringae Pathovars from Populus trichocarpa Seeds
Authors: Saint-Vincent Patricia MB , Ridout Mary , Engle Nancy L. , Lawrence Travis J. , Yeary Meredith L. , Tschaplinski Timothy J. , Newcombe George , Pelletier Dale A.
Published: July 2020

Pseudomonas syringae is a ubiquitous plant pathogen, infecting both woody and herbaceous plants and resulting in devastating agricultural crop losses. Characterized by a remarkable specificity for plant hosts, P. syringae pathovars utilize a number of virulence factors including the type III secretion system and effector proteins to elicit disease in a particular host species. Here, two Pseudomonas syringae strains were isolated from diseased Populustrichocarpa seeds. The pathovars were capable of inhibiting poplar seed germination and were selective for the Populus genus. Sequencing of the newly described organisms revealed similarity to phylogroup II pathogens and genomic regions associated with woody host-associated plant pathogens, as well as genes for specific virulence factors. The host response to infection, as revealed through metabolomics, is the induction of the stress response through the accumulation of higher-order salicylates. Combined with necrosis on leaf surfaces, the plant appears to quickly respond by isolating infected tissues and mounting an anti-inflammatory defense. This study improves our understanding of the initial host response to epiphytic pathogens in Populus and provides a new model system for studying the effects of a bacterial pathogen on a woody host plant in which both organisms are fully genetically sequenced.
Energy Density of New Food Products Targeted to Children
Authors: Azzopardi Danielle J. , Lacy Kathleen E. , Woods Julie L.
Published: July 2020

High dietary energy density (ED) is linked to childhood obesity and poor diet quality. The Australian Health Star Rating (HSR) system aims to assist consumers in making healthful food choices. This cross-sectional study used 2014–2018 data from the Mintel Global New Products Database to describe the ED of new food products targeted to children (5–12 years) released after the introduction of HSR and examine relationships between ED and HSR. Products were categorised by ED (low < 630 kJ/100 g, medium 630–950 kJ/100 g, high > 950 kJ/100 g) and HSR (no, HSR < 2.5 low, HSR ≥ 2.5 high). Non-parametric statistics were used to examine ED and HSR. A total of 548 products targeted children: 21% low, 5% medium, 74% high ED. One hundred products displayed an HSR: 24% low, 76% high; 53 products with both high HSR and ED. The EDs of products differed by HSR (p < 0.05), but both group’s medians (HSR < 2.5: 1850 kJ/100 g, HSR ≥ 2.5: 1507 kJ/100 g) were high. A high proportion of new products had a high ED, and the HSR of these foods did not consistently discriminate between ED levels, particularly for high ED foods. Policies to promote lower ED foods and better alignment between ED and HSR may improve childhood obesity and diet quality.
Inventory of Wastes Generated in Polish Sewage Sludge Incineration Plants and Their Possible Circular Management Directions
Authors: Smol Marzena
Published: July 2020

A dynamic development of sewer networks and municipal wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) leads to the formation a large amounts of municipal sewage sludges (MSSs) which have to be disposed. One of the MSS disposal practices is thermal conversion in mono-incineration plants. Nowadays, there are 11 such installations in Poland, with the total capacity 160,300 Mg d.w. of MSSs per year. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of wastes generated in Polish MSS mono-incineration plants. As a consequence of MSSs incineration, various types of waste are generated including, for example, bottom and fly ash, dust or solid waste. The most valuable waste is sewage sludge ash (SSA), which can be used in other industries, as fertilizer or construction sectors. In the circular economy (CE) model, SSA should be treated as a secondary source of raw materials, such as phosphates (replacement of nutrients by P-rich ashes in fertilizers) or sand (replacement of sand by ashes in construction materials). Current practices of SSA management include landfilling, recovery at WWTPs or management by external companies (recovery, disposal or collection). To preserve the utility value of SSA, it should be stored selectively, and then directed to raw materials recovery. This creates the possibility of turning waste into a secondary resource, after meeting certain conditions which depend on which product the waste is directed to. Moreover, this waste management practice is recommended in the Polish documents regarding the usage of SSA, and it can strengthen the accomplishment of the European Green Deal, which is the newest roadmap for making the EU’s economy sustainable and circular.
Automatic Guidance Method for Laser Tracker Based on Rotary-Laser Scanning Angle Measurement
Authors: Yang Linghui , Pan Yuanlin , Lin Jiarui , Liu Yang , Shang Yue , Yang Shuo , Cao Hanwen
Published: July 2020

Laser-tracking measurement systems (laser tracker) have been playing a critical role in large-scale 3D high-precision coordinate measurement. However, the existing visual guidance of laser trackers is still limited by the disadvantages of operator-dependence, small-angle view field, time-consuming laser-guided process. This paper presents an automatic guidance method for laser trackers based on the rotary-laser scanning angle measurement technology. In this method, a special target consisting of six photoelectric receivers and a retroreflector is integrated into the rotary-laser scanning transmitter’ coordinate systems. Real-time constraints calculated by the proposed method would provide the coordinates of the target in a laser tracker coordinates system for guidance. Finally, the experimental results verified the automatic re-establish of sightline can be realized in horizontal 360° angle field within tens of arc-seconds, and this method is robust against the fast movement of the target.
Detection and Classification of Multirotor Drones in Radar Sensor Networks: A Review
Authors: Coluccia Angelo , Parisi Gianluca , Fascista Alessio
Published: July 2020

Thanks to recent technological advances, a new generation of low-cost, small, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is available. Small UAVs, often called drones, are enabling unprecedented applications but, at the same time, new threats are arising linked to their possible misuse (e.g., drug smuggling, terrorist attacks, espionage). In this paper, the main challenges related to the problem of drone identification are discussed, which include detection, possible verification, and classification. An overview of the most relevant technologies is provided, which in modern surveillance systems are composed into a network of spatially-distributed sensors to ensure full coverage of the monitored area. More specifically, the main focus is on the frequency modulated continuous wave (FMCW) radar sensor, which is a key technology also due to its low cost and capability to work at relatively long distances, as well as strong robustness to illumination and weather conditions. This paper provides a review of the existing literature on the most promising approaches adopted in the different phases of the identification process, i.e., detection of the possible presence of drones, target verification, and classification.
Toward Joint Acquisition-Annotation of Images with Egocentric Devices for a Lower-Cost Machine Learning Application to Apple Detection
Authors: Samiei Salma , Rasti Pejman , Richard Paul , Galopin Gilles , Rousseau David
Published: July 2020

Since most computer vision approaches are now driven by machine learning, the current bottleneck is the annotation of images. This time-consuming task is usually performed manually after the acquisition of images. In this article, we assess the value of various egocentric vision approaches in regard to performing joint acquisition and automatic image annotation rather than the conventional two-step process of acquisition followed by manual annotation. This approach is illustrated with apple detection in challenging field conditions. We demonstrate the possibility of high performance in automatic apple segmentation (Dice 0.85), apple counting (88 percent of probability of good detection, and 0.09 true-negative rate), and apple localization (a shift error of fewer than 3 pixels) with eye-tracking systems. This is obtained by simply applying the areas of interest captured by the egocentric devices to standard, non-supervised image segmentation. We especially stress the importance in terms of time of using such eye-tracking devices on head-mounted systems to jointly perform image acquisition and automatic annotation. A gain of time of over 10-fold by comparison with classical image acquisition followed by manual image annotation is demonstrated.
3D Printed Robot Hand Structure Using Four-Bar Linkage Mechanism for Prosthetic Application
Authors: Abdul Wahit Mohamad Aizat , Ahmad Siti Anom , Marhaban Mohammad Hamiruce , Wada Chikamune , Izhar Lila Iznita
Published: July 2020

Trans-radial prosthesis is a wearable device that intends to help amputees under the elbow to replace the function of the missing anatomical segment that resembles an actual human hand. However, there are some challenging aspects faced mainly on the robot hand structural design itself. Improvements are needed as this is closely related to structure efficiency. This paper proposes a robot hand structure with improved features (four-bar linkage mechanism) to overcome the deficiency of using the cable-driven actuated mechanism that leads to less structure durability and inaccurate motion range. Our proposed robot hand structure also took into account the existing design problems such as bulky structure, unindividual actuated finger, incomplete fingers and a lack of finger joints compared to the actual finger in its design. This paper presents the improvements achieved by applying the proposed design such as the use of a four-bar linkage mechanism instead of using the cable-driven mechanism, the size of an average human hand, five-fingers with completed joints where each finger is moved by motor individually, joint protection using a mechanical stopper, detachable finger structure from the palm frame, a structure that has sufficient durability for everyday use and an easy to fabricate structure using 3D printing technology. The four-bar linkage mechanism is the use of the solid linkage that connects the actuator with the structure to allow the structure to move. The durability was investigated using static analysis simulation. The structural details and simulation results were validated through motion capture analysis and load test. The motion analyses towards the 3D printed robot structure show 70–98% similar motion range capability to the designed structure in the CAD software, and it can withstand up to 1.6 kg load in the simulation and the real test. The improved robot hand structure with optimum durability for prosthetic uses was successfully developed.