bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rostrocaudal Distribution of the C-Fos-Immunopositive Spinal Network Defined by Muscle Activity during Locomotion
Authors: Merkulyeva Natalia , Lyakhovetskii Vsevolod , Veshchitskii Aleksandr , Gorskii Oleg , Musienko Pavel
Published: January 2021

The optimization of multisystem neurorehabilitation protocols including electrical spinal cord stimulation and multi-directional tasks training require understanding of underlying circuits mechanisms and distribution of the neuronal network over the spinal cord. In this study we compared the locomotor activity during forward and backward stepping in eighteen adult decerebrated cats. Interneuronal spinal networks responsible for forward and backward stepping were visualized using the C-Fos technique. A bi-modal rostrocaudal distribution of C-Fos-immunopositive neurons over the lumbosacral spinal cord (peaks in the L4/L5 and L6/S1 segments) was revealed. These patterns were compared with motoneuronal pools using Vanderhorst and Holstege scheme; the location of the first peak was correspondent to the motoneurons of the hip flexors and knee extensors, an inter-peak drop was presumably attributed to the motoneurons controlling the adductor muscles. Both were better expressed in cats stepping forward and in parallel, electromyographic (EMG) activity of the hip flexor and knee extensors was higher, while EMG activity of the adductor was lower, during this locomotor mode. On the basis of the present data, which showed greater activity of the adductor muscles and the attributed interneuronal spinal network during backward stepping and according with data about greater demands on postural control systems during backward locomotion, we suppose that the locomotor networks for movements in opposite directions are at least partially different.
Comparison of Oncologic Outcomes between Carbon Ion Radiotherapy and Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy for Early-Stage Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Miyasaka Yuhei , Komatsu Shuichiro , Abe Takanori , Kubo Nobuteru , Okano Naoko , Shibuya Kei , Shirai Katsuyuki , Kawamura Hidemasa , Saitoh Jun-ichi , Ebara Takeshi , Ohno Tatsuya
Published: January 2021

Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Radiotherapy is an essential treatment modality for inoperable non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) is the standard treatment for early-stage NSCLC because of its favorable local control (LC) compared to conventional radiotherapy. Carbon ion radiotherapy (CIRT) is a kind of external beam radiotherapy characterized by a steeper dose distribution and higher biological effectiveness. Several prospective studies have shown favorable outcomes. However, there is no direct comparison study between CIRT and SBRT to determine their benefits in the management of early-stage NSCLC. Thus, we conducted a retrospective, single-institutional, and contemporaneous comparison study, including propensity score-adjusted analyses, to clarify the differences in oncologic outcomes. The 3-year overall survival (OS) was 80.1% in CIRT and 71.6% in SBRT (p = 0.0077). The 3-year LC was 87.7% in the CIRT group and 79.1% in the SBRT group (p = 0.037). Multivariable analyses showed favorable OS and LC in the CIRT group (hazard risk [HR] = 0.41, p = 0.047; HR = 0.30, p = 0.040, respectively). Log-rank tests after propensity score matching and Cox regression analyses using propensity score confirmed these results. These data provided a positive efficacy profile of CIRT for early-stage NSCLC.
Effect of Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) Applied as a Patch on Human Skin Physiology and Its Microbiota
Authors: Leoty-Okombi Sabrina , Gillaizeau Florence , Leuillet Sébastien , Douillard Benoit , Le Fresne-Languille Sophie , Carton Thomas , De Martino Alessandra , Moussou Philippe , Bonnaud-Rosaye Catherine , André Valérie
Published: January 2021

In this study, we assessed the change in skin microbiota composition, relative abundance, and diversity with skin physiology disruption induced by SLS patch. Healthy women declaring to have a reactive skin were submitted to a 0.5% aqueous sodium lauryl sulfate solution application under occlusive patch condition for 24 h. Skin properties were characterized by tewametry, corneometry, and colorimetry and bacterial diversity was assessed by 16S rRNA sequencing. Analysis before and one day after SLS patch removal revealed an increase of skin redness and a decrease of stratum corneum hydration and skin barrier function. The relative abundance of taxa containing potential pathogens increase (Firmicutes: Staphylococcaceae; Proteobacteria: Enterobacteriaceae, Pantoea) while some of the most occurring Actinobacteria with valuable skin protection and repair capacities decreased (Micrococcus, Kocuria, and Corynebacterium). We observed an impaired skin barrier function and dehydration induced by SLS patch disturb the subtle balance of skin microbiota towards skin bacterial community dysbiosis. This study provides new insights on the skin bacterial composition and skin physiology simultaneously impaired by a SLS patch.
Advances of ECG Sensors from Hardware, Software and Format Interoperability Perspectives
Authors: Husain Khaleel , Mohd Zahid Mohd Soperi , Ul Hassan Shahab , Hasbullah Sumayyah , Mandala Satria
Published: January 2021

It is well-known that cardiovascular disease is one of the major causes of death worldwide nowadays. Electrocardiogram (ECG) sensor is one of the tools commonly used by cardiologists to diagnose and detect signs of heart disease with their patients. Since fast, prompt and accurate interpretation and decision is important in saving the life of patients from sudden heart attack or cardiac arrest, many innovations have been made to ECG sensors. However, the use of traditional ECG sensors is still prevalent in the clinical settings of many medical institutions. This article provides a comprehensive survey on ECG sensors from hardware, software and data format interoperability perspectives. The hardware perspective outlines a general hardware architecture of an ECG sensor along with the description of its hardware components. The software perspective describes various techniques (denoising, machine learning, deep learning, and privacy preservation) and other computer paradigms used in the software development and deployment for ECG sensors. Finally, the format interoperability perspective offers a detailed taxonomy of current ECG formats and the relationship among these formats. The intention is to help researchers towards the development of modern ECG sensors that are suitable and approved for adoption in real clinical settings.
Comprehensive Comparative Study of the Malting Qualities of Winter Hull-Less and Hulled Barley (2016–2019)
Authors: Habschied Kristina , Lalić Alojzije , Krstanović Vinko , Dvojković Krešimir , Abičić Ivan , Šimić Gordana , Mastanjević Krešimir
Published: January 2021

This paper aimed to compare the quality indicators of hull-less (naked) barley malt with malt obtained from hulled barley, according to the recommended values for standard pale malt. Five domestic hull-less barley varieties (Osvit, Mandatar, GZ-184, Osk.8.26/1–14 and Osk.6.24/4–12) and five hulled (Barun, OsLukas, Vanessa, Casanova, and Maestro) barley varieties were malted according to the standard procedure. The results of starting barley quality indicators (hectolitre weight, protein, starch, 1000 kernel weight, first class grain) and of finished malts (malt moisture, extract, extract difference, friability, wort viscosity, soluble protein, Kolbach index, wort color, and wort pH) were then compared. The results indicate that the main problem of hull-less barley is the resistance to deeper modification of grain. This is expressed as lower water absorption during steeping, and lower friability. The intensification of the process of malting could be boosted with the extension of steeping time and decreased temperatures during germination. This should result with higher friability but other indicators of malt quality should also show better values.
The Role of Microbiome and Genotype in Daphnia magna upon Parasite Re-Exposure
Authors: Bulteel Lore , Houwenhuyse Shira , Declerck Steven A. J. , Decaestecker Ellen
Published: January 2021

Recently, it has been shown that the community of gut microorganisms plays a crucial role in host performance with respect to parasite tolerance. Knowledge, however, is lacking on the role of the gut microbiome in mediating host tolerance after parasite re-exposure, especially considering multiple parasite infections. We here aimed to fill this knowledge gap by studying the role of the gut microbiome on tolerance in Daphnia magna upon multiple parasite species re-exposure. Additionally, we investigated the role of the host genotype in the interaction between the gut microbiome and the host phenotypic performance. A microbiome transplant experiment was performed in which three germ-free D. magna genotypes were exposed to a gut microbial inoculum and a parasite community treatment. The gut microbiome inocula were pre-exposed to the same parasite communities or a control treatment. Daphnia performance was monitored, and amplicon sequencing was performed to characterize the gut microbial community. Our experimental results showed that the gut microbiome plays no role in Daphnia tolerance upon parasite re-exposure. We did, however, find a main effect of the gut microbiome on Daphnia body size reflecting parasite specific responses. Our results also showed that it is rather the Daphnia genotype, and not the gut microbiome, that affected parasite-induced host mortality. Additionally, we found a role of the genotype in structuring the gut microbial community, both in alpha diversity as in the microbial composition.
Developing a Multicriteria Decision Analysis Framework to Evaluate Reclaimed Wastewater Use for Agricultural Irrigation: The Case Study of Maryland
Authors: Paul Manashi , Negahban-Azar Masoud , Shirmohammadi Adel , Montas Hubert
Published: January 2021

Groundwater is the main source of irrigation and residential use in the Eastern Shore Maryland, which is experiencing challenges regarding overuse, saltwater intrusion, and diminishing productivity. The Chesapeake Bay is also facing the problem of water pollution due to pollutant loading from agricultural fields and wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). Using recycled water for irrigation has the potential to alleviate the pressure on groundwater and reduce pollutant loading. The objective of this study was to develop a decision tool to explore the use of recycled water for agricultural irrigation in Maryland using Multicriteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) integrated with Geographical Information Systems (GIS). Four main evaluation criteria were included in the GIS-MCDA framework: agricultural land cover, climate, groundwater vulnerability, and characteristics of the WWTPs as sources of recycled water. Groundwater vulnerability zones were developed using the groundwater well density, water extraction data, and the aquifer information. Then, the most suitable areas for irrigation using recycled water were identified. About 13.5% and 32.9% of agricultural land was, respectively, found to be “highly” and “moderately” suitable for irrigation with recycled water when WWTPs were categorized based on their treatment process information. The results provide a useful decision tool to promote the use of recycled water for agricultural irrigation.
Breast Cancer Stem Cell Active Copper(II) Complexes with Naphthol Schiff Base and Polypyridyl Ligands
Authors: Northcote-Smith Joshua , Johnson Alice , Singh Kuldip , Ortu Fabrizio , Suntharalingam Kogularamanan
Published: January 2021

Breast cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a sub-population of tumour cells that can promote breast cancer relapse and metastasis. Current treatments are unable to completely remove breast CSCs, therefore it is essential to develop new chemotherapeutics that can remove breast CSCs at clinically compatible doses. Here we present the synthesis, characterisation, and anti-breast CSC properties of copper(II) complexes, [Cu(L2)(1,10-phenanthroline)]PF6 (2) and [Cu(L3)(1,10-phenanthroline)]PF6 (3) comprising of a tridentate (O,N,S) coordinated naphthol Schiff base ligand (L2 = (E)-1-(((2-(methylthio)ethyl)imino)methyl)naphthalen-2-ol or L3 = (E)-1-(((2-(ethylthio)ethyl)imino)methyl)naphthalen-2-ol and 1,10-phenanthroline. The copper(II) complexes (2 and 3) kill breast CSCs, cultured in monolayer and three-dimensional systems, in the micromolar range. Notably, 2 and 3 are more potent towards breast CSC mammospheres than salinomycin (up to 4.5-fold), an established anti-breast CSC agent. Further, cell-based studies indicate that 2 and 3 are readily taken up by breast CSCs and elevate intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels upon short exposure times (0.5–1 h). The latter is likely to be the underlying mechanism by which 2 and 3 induces breast CSC death.
Pravastatin Promotes Endothelial Colony-Forming Cell Function, Angiogenic Signaling and Protein Expression In Vitro
Authors: Meyer Nadia , Brodowski Lars , Richter Katja , von Kaisenberg Constantin S. , Schröder-Heurich Bianca , von Versen-Höynck Frauke
Published: January 2021

Endothelial dysfunction is a primary feature of several cardiovascular diseases. Endothelial colony-forming cells (ECFCs) represent a highly proliferative subtype of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), which are involved in neovascularization and vascular repair. Statins are known to improve the outcome of cardiovascular diseases via pleiotropic effects. We hypothesized that treatment with the 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl–coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitor pravastatin increases ECFCs’ functional capacities and regulates the expression of proteins which modulate endothelial health in a favourable manner. Umbilical cord blood derived ECFCs were incubated with different concentrations of pravastatin with or without mevalonate, a key intermediate in cholesterol synthesis. Functional capacities such as migration, proliferation and tube formation were addressed in corresponding in vitro assays. mRNA and protein levels or phosphorylation of protein kinase B (AKT), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A), placental growth factor (PlGF), soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) and endoglin (Eng) were analyzed by real time PCR or immunoblot, respectively. Proliferation, migration and tube formation of ECFCs were enhanced after pravastatin treatment, and AKT- and eNOS-phosphorylation were augmented. Further, expression levels of HO-1, VEGF-A and PlGF were increased, whereas expression levels of sFlt-1 and Eng were decreased. Pravastatin induced effects were reversible by the addition of mevalonate. Pravastatin induces beneficial effects on ECFC function, angiogenic signaling and protein expression. These effects may contribute to understand the pleiotropic function of statins as well as to provide a promising option to improve ECFCs’ condition in cell therapy in order to ameliorate endothelial dysfunction.
First to React Is the Last to Forgive: Evidence from the Stock Market Impact of COVID 19
Authors: Hassan Sherif. , Riveros Gavilanes John
Published: January 2021

The COVID 19 pandemic has had wide-ranging and severe effects on global economies. Stock markets as usual were the first to react, with drop rates as much as the global financial crises of 2008. This study uses daily data to model the dynamic impact of the COVID 19 pandemic on the first affected countries’ stock market indices and the global commodity markets. The panel least squares Vector Auto-Regressive (VAR) estimation results confirm the negative short-termed impact of the virus spread rate on the returns of the stock market indices. The spread rate is also significant to explain changes related to the prices of platinum, silver, West Texas Intermediate (WTI), and Brent crude oil.
Long-Term Concrete Shrinkage Influence on the Performance of Reinforced Concrete Structures
Authors: Dey Alinda , Vastrad Akshay Vijay , Bado Mattia Francesco , Sokolov Aleksandr , Kaklauskas Gintaris
Published: January 2021

The contribution of concrete to the tensile stiffness (tension stiffening) of a reinforced concrete (RC) member is a key governing factor for structural serviceability analyses. However, among the current tension stiffening models, few consider the effect brought forth by concrete shrinkage, and none studies take account of the effect for very long-term shrinkage. The present work intends to tackle this exact issue by testing multiple RC tensile elements (with different bar diameters and reinforcement ratios) after a five-year shrinking time period. The experimental deformative and tension stiffening responses were subjected to a mathematical process of shrinkage removal aimed at assessing its effect on the former. The results showed shrinkage distinctly lowered the cracking load of the RC members and caused an apparent tension stiffening reduction. Furthermore, both of these effects were exacerbated in the members with higher reinforcement ratios. The experimental and shrinkage-free behaviors of the RC elements were finally compared to the values predicted by the CEB-fib Model Code 2010 and the Euro Code 2. Interestingly, as a consequence of the long-term shrinkage, the codes expressed a smaller relative error when compared to the shrinkage-free curves versus the experimental ones.
Shape Memory and Mechanical Properties of Cold Rolled and Annealed Fe-17Mn-5Si-5Cr-4Ni-1Ti-0.3C Alloy
Authors: Kim Dohyung , Hong Kinam , Sim Jeesoo , Lee Junghoon , Lee Wookjin
Published: January 2021

In the present study, the shape, memory, and mechanical properties of cold-rolled and annealed Fe-17Mn-5Si-5Cr-4Ni-1Ti-0.3C (wt.%) alloy were investigated. The cold-rolled alloy was annealing heat-treated at different temperatures in the range of 500–900 °C for 30 min. The shape recovery behavior of the alloy was investigated using strip bending test followed by recovery heating. The microstructural evolution and the stress-strain response of the alloy heat-treated at different temperatures revealed that the recovery took place at a heat-treatment temperature higher than 600 °C. Recrystallization occurred when the heat-treatment temperature was higher than 800 °C. Meaningful shape recovery was observed only when the alloy was annealed at temperatures higher than 600 °C. The highest recovery strain of up to 2.56% was achieved with a pre-strain of 5.26% and recovery heating temperature of 400 °C, when the alloy was heat-treated at 700 °C. Conversely, the yield strength reduced significantly with increasing annealing heat-treatment temperature. The experimental observations presented in this paper provide a guideline for post-annealing heat-treatment when a good compromise between mechanical property and shape recovery performance is required.
Enhanced IoV Security Network by Using Blockchain Governance Game
Authors: Kim Song-Kyoo (Amang)
Published: January 2021

This paper deals with the design of the secure network in an Enhanced Internet of Vehicles by using the Blockchain Governance Game (BGG). The BGG is a system model of a stochastic game to find best strategies towards preparation of preventing a network malfunction by an attacker and the paper applies this game model into the connected vehicle security. Analytically tractable results for decision-making parameters enable to predict the moment for safety operations and to deliver the optimal combination of the number of reserved nodes with the acceptance probability of backup nodes to protect a connected car. This research helps for whom considers the enhanced secure IoV architecture with the BGG within a decentralized network.
Assessing the Current Situation of the World Wheat Market Leadership: Using the Semi-Parametric Approach
Authors: Ahmed Osama
Published: January 2021

This paper examines the world wheat market leadership using price discovery occurring in wheat futures markets of the United States (U.S.) and Europe. An error correction model (ECM) generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (GARCH), and semi-parametric dynamic copula methods are used for this purpose. The results indicate a positive link between U.S. and Europe price discovery which is stronger, fluctuating less after August 2010 because of a drought occurring in the Black Sea region, and then lessens, fluctuating more after 2015 with the changing wheat trade map. Furthermore, after 2015, wheat market leadership moved from the U.S. to the European market, meaning price discovery is primarily located by the Marché à Terme International de France (MATIF) futures market.
Analysis of Parametric and Subharmonic Excitation in Push-Pull Driven Disk Resonator Gyroscopes
Authors: Wu Kai , Lu Kuo , Li Qingsong , Zhang Yongmeng , Zhuo Ming , Yu Sheng , Wu Xuezhong , Xiao Dingbang
Published: January 2021

For micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) resonators, once the devices are fabricated and packaged, their intrinsic quality factors (Q) will be fixed and cannot be changed, which seriously limits the further improvement of the resonator’s performance. In this paper, parametric excitation is applied in a push-pull driven disk resonator gyroscope (DRG) to improve its sensitivity by an electrical pump, causing an arbitrary increase of the “effective Q”. However, due to the differential characteristics of the push-pull driving method, the traditional parametric excitation method is not applicable. As a result, two novel methods are proposed and experimentally carried out to achieve parametric excitation in the push-pull driven DRGs, resulting in a maximum “effective Q” of 2.24 × 106 in the experiment, about a 7.6 times improvement over the intrinsic Q. Besides, subharmonic excitation is also theoretically analyzed and experimentally characterized. The stability boundary of parametric excitation, defined by a threshold voltage, is theoretically predicted and verified by related experiments. It is demonstrated that, when keeping the gyroscope’s vibration at a constant amplitude, the fundamental frequency driving voltage will decrease with the increasing of the parametric voltage and will drop to zero at its threshold value. In this case, the gyroscope operates in a generalized parametric resonance condition, which is called subharmonic excitation. The novel parametric and subharmonic excitation theories displayed in this paper are proven to be efficient and tunable dynamical methods with great potential for adjusting the quality factor flexibly, which can be used to further enhance the resonator’s performance.
Divergent Microbiota Dynamics along the Coastal Marine Ecosystem of Puerto Rico
Authors: Louime Clifford , Vazquez-Sanchez Frances , Derilus Dieunel , Godoy-Vitorino Filipa
Published: January 2021

Understanding the different factors shaping the spatial and temporal distribution of marine microorganisms is fundamental in predicting their responses to future environmental disturbances. There has been, however, little effort to characterize the microbial diversity including the microbiome dynamics among regions in the Caribbean Sea. Toward this end, this study was designed to gain some critical insights into microbial diversity within the coastal marine ecosystem off the coast of Puerto Rico. Using Illumina MiSeq, the V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene was sequenced with the goal of characterizing the microbial diversity representative of different coastal sites around the island of Puerto Rico. This study provided valuable insights in terms of the local bacterial taxonomic abundance, α and β diversity, and the environmental factors shaping microbial community composition and structure. The most dominant phyla across all 11 sampling sites were the Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Planctomycetes, while the least dominant taxonomic groups were the NKB19, Tenericutes, OP3, Lentisphaerae, and SAR406. The geographical area (Caribbean and Atlantic seas) and salinity gradients were the main drivers shaping the marine microbial community around the island. Despite stable physical and chemical features of the different sites, a highly dynamic microbiome was observed. This highlights Caribbean waters as one of the richest marine sources for a microbial biodiversity hotspot. The data presented here provide a basis for further temporal evaluations aiming at deciphering microbial taxonomic diversity around the island, while determining how microbes adapt to changes in the climate.
Acetyleugenol from Acacia nilotica (L.) Exhibits a Strong Antibacterial Activity and Its Phenyl and Indole Analogues Show a Promising Anti-TB Potential Targeting PknE/B Protein Kinases
Authors: Abdulhamid Abubakar , Awad Talal Ahmed , Ahmed Abdalla E. , Koua Faisal Hammad Mekky , Ismail Amar Mohamed
Published: January 2021

Acetyleugenol is a phytochemical compound with broad effects against infectious diseases and tumors. Here, we extracted, characterized, and elucidated the structure of acetyeugenol, for the first time, from the leaves of Acacia nilotica (L.)—a well-known medicinal plant. The broad antibacterial potential of acetyleugenol was first confirmed against seven bacterial clinical isolates, which reveal a strong activity against Proteus sp., Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus pneumonia with similar or better zone of inhibition comparing to that of the control amoxicillin. To further investigate its effect against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, acetyleugenol and its indole and phenyl analogues were subjected to molecular docking experiments against two potential tuberculosis drug targets—MtPknE and MtPknB Ser/Thr protein kinases. The results reveal that all of the analogs have improved docking scores compared to the acetyleugenol. The indole analogues EUG-1 and EUG-3 were more effective with better docking scores for MtPknE with −11.08 and −10.05 kcal/mol, respectively. Similar results were obtained for the MtPknB. In contrast, only the EUG-2 phenyl analogue has given rise to similar docking scores for both targets. This opens the door for further comprehensive studies on these acetyleugenol analogues with in vitro and in vivo experiments to validate and get more insights into their mechanisms of action.
Application of the “SCOBY” and Kombucha Tea for the Production of Fermented Milk Drinks
Authors: Kruk Marcin , Trząskowska Monika , Ścibisz Iwona , Pokorski Patryk
Published: January 2021

For the production of fermented milk drinks, cultures of microorganisms other than traditionally applied can be used. Such possibilities are created by the symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY), which is used to produce kombucha. The aim of the study was to evaluate the possibility of using kombucha and the SCOBY for fermented milk drink products. The drinks were developed with a lactose-free variant and traditional milk. For the analysis of the obtained beverages, microbiological methods (CFU method), chemical methods (pH method and HPLC method) and the quantitative descriptive analysis (QDA) sensory method were used. As a result of the research, a recipe and the fermentation parameters for fermented milk drinks were developed. In the developed lactose milk drinks, the average lactose content was 4.25 g/100 g. In lactose-free milk drinks, the average glucose content was 2.26 g/100 g. Lactic acid in both types of products was at the highest average level of 0.68 g/100 g. The products had a characteristic pH value for fermented milk drinks and a very good microbiological quality, which followed the FAO/WHO guidelines. Drinks also had a typical sensory profile for this products group. However, slight sensory defects were detected. The developed fermented milk drinks have a potential health-promoting value, thanks to the content of active microflora and organic acids, which have a confirmed positive effect on the human body. The drinks produced require further testing to optimize their cost of production, possible health benefits and sensory quality.
Characterization of LDD-2633 as a Novel RET Kinase Inhibitor with Anti-Tumor Effects in Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Lee Hyo Jeong , Jeong Pyeonghwa , Moon Yeongyu , Choi Jungil , Heo Jeong Doo , Kim Yong-Chul , Han Sun-Young
Published: January 2021

Rearranged during transfection (RET), a receptor tyrosine kinase, is activated by glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor family ligands. Chromosomal rearrangement or point mutations in RET are observed in patients with papillary thyroid and medullary thyroid carcinomas. Oncogenic alteration of RET results in constitutive activation of RET activity. Therefore, inhibiting RET activity has become a target in thyroid cancer therapy. Here, the anti-tumor activity of a novel RET inhibitor was characterized in medullary thyroid carcinoma cells. The indirubin derivative LDD-2633 was tested for RET kinase inhibitory activity. In vitro, LDD-2633 showed potent inhibition of RET kinase activity, with an IC50 of 4.42 nM. The growth of TT thyroid carcinoma cells harboring an RET mutation was suppressed by LDD-2633 treatment via the proliferation suppression and the induction of apoptosis. The effects of LDD-2633 on the RET signaling pathway were examined; LDD-2633 inhibited the phosphorylation of the RET protein and the downstream molecules Shc and ERK1/2. Oral administration of 20 or 40 mg/kg of LDD-2633 induced dose-dependent suppression of TT cell xenograft tumor growth. The in vivo and in vitro experimental results supported the potential use of LDD-2633 as an anticancer drug for thyroid cancers.
Modulation of the Immune Response by Deferasirox in Myelodysplastic Syndrome Patients
Authors: Votavova Hana , Urbanova Zuzana , Kundrat David , Dostalova Merkerova Michaela , Vostry Martin , Hruba Monika , Cermak Jaroslav , Belickova Monika
Published: January 2021

Deferasirox (DFX) is an oral iron chelator used to reduce iron overload (IO) caused by frequent blood cell transfusions in anemic myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) patients. To study the molecular mechanisms by which DFX improves outcome in MDS, we analyzed the global gene expression in untreated MDS patients and those who were given DFX treatment. The gene expression profiles of bone marrow CD34+ cells were assessed by whole-genome microarrays. Initially, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were determined between patients with normal ferritin levels and those with IO to address the effect of excessive iron on cellular pathways. These DEGs were annotated to Gene Ontology terms associated with cell cycle, apoptosis, adaptive immune response and protein folding and were enriched in cancer-related pathways. The deregulation of multiple cancer pathways in iron-overloaded patients suggests that IO is a cofactor favoring the progression of MDS. The DEGs between patients with IO and those treated with DFX were involved predominantly in biological processes related to the immune response and inflammation. These data indicate DFX modulates the immune response mainly via neutrophil-related genes. Suppression of negative regulators of blood cell differentiation essential for cell maturation and upregulation of heme metabolism observed in DFX-treated patients may contribute to the hematopoietic improvement.
Himantoglossum adriaticum H. Baumann × Himantoglossum robertianum (Loisel.) P. Delforge: A New Interspecific Hybrid Assessed by Barcoding Analysis
Authors: Antonetti Maurizio , Nin Stefania , Burchi Gianluca , Biricolti Stefano , Gori Massimo
Published: January 2021

Most cultivated orchids, contributing to a worldwide highly profitable industry, are originated from tropic regions. Conversely, a considerable number of spontaneous orchids, belonging to the terrestrial orchids and widely diffused throughout the European continent, are not considered for trading due to their less gorgeous appearance and for technical difficulties in seed propagation. However, a breeding programme was undertaken aimed at developing a new hybrid between Himantoglossum adriaticum H. Baumann and H. robertianum (Loisel.) P. Delforge [syn. Barlia robertiana (Loisel.) Greuter] by applying techniques of anther conservation, manual pollination and in vitro asymbiotic germination of the obtained seeds. The plantlets that originated from the protocorms after seed germination were successfully acclimatised after potting in a proper medium. The parentage of the progenies of the hybridisation experiment was assessed by sequencing the Internal Transcribed Spacer assembly (ITS) and plastid barcoding markers of the parental lines and of the hybrids. The method proved to be effective in revealing the origin of the hybrids and to validate the maternal inheritance of the plastid DNA.
Performance of Winter-Sown Cereal Catch Crops after Simulated Forage Crop Grazing in Southland, New Zealand
Authors: Malcolm Brendon , Maley Shane , Teixeira Edmar , Johnstone Paul , de Ruiter John , Brown Hamish , Armstrong Stewart , Dellow Steven , George Mike
Published: January 2021

(1) Background: Winter grazing of livestock poses significant environmental risks of nitrogen (N) leaching and sediment runoff. (2) Methods: A field study tested the effects of sowing catch crops of oats (Avena sativa L.), ryecorn (Secale cereale L.) or triticale (Triticosecale) in June and August (winter) in Southland, New Zealand (NZ), on the risk of N leaching losses from simulated N loads left after winter forage grazing. (3) Results: Catch crops took up 141–191 kg N ha−1 by green-chop silage maturity (approximately Zadoks growth stage 52; November/December). Importantly, early-sown catch crops were able to capture more N during the key leaching period from winter to mid-spring (77–106 kg N ha−1 cf. 27–31 kg N ha−1 for June and August treatments, respectively). At this time, ryecorn and triticale crops sown in June captured 20–29 kg ha−1 more N than June-sown oats (77 kg N ha−1). In October, early-sown catch crops reduced mineral N in the soil profile (0–45 cm depth) by 69–141 kg N ha−1 through the process of plant uptake. At green-chop silage maturity, catch crop yields ranged from 6.6 to 14.6 t DM ha−1. Highest yields and crop quality profiles (e.g., metabolizable energy, crude protein, soluble sugars and starch) were achieved by the oats, irrespective of the sowing date, indicating that trade-offs likely exist between environmental and productive performances of the catch crop species tested. (4) Conclusion: The catch crop of choice by farmers will depend on the desired end use for the crop, its place in the crop rotation and its potential for an environmental benefit.
Strategy of Salt Tolerance and Interactive Impact of Azotobacter chroococcum and/or Alcaligenes faecalis Inoculation on Canola (Brassica napus L.) Plants Grown in Saline Soil
Authors: Abdel Latef Arafat Abdel Hamed , Omer Amal M. , Badawy Ali A. , Osman Mahmoud S. , Ragaey Marwa M.
Published: January 2021

A pot experiment was designed and performed in a completely randomized block design (CRBD) to determine the main effect of two plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and their co-inoculation on growth criteria and physio-biochemical attributes of canola plants (Brassica napus L.) plant grown in saline soil. The results showed that inoculation with two PGPR (Azotobacter chroococcum and/or Alcaligenes faecalis) energized the growth parameters and photosynthetic pigments of stressed plants. Moreover, soluble sugars’ and proteins’ contents were boosted due to the treatments mentioned above. Proline, malondialdehyde (MDA), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) contents were markedly declined. At the same time, antioxidant enzymes, viz. superoxide dismutase (SOD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), and peroxidase (POD), were augmented due to the inoculation with Azotobacter chroococcum and/or Alcaligenes faecalis. Regarding minerals’ uptake, there was a decline in sodium (Na) and an increase in nitrogen (N), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg) uptake due to the application of either individual or co-inoculation with the mentioned bacterial isolates. This study showed that co-inoculation with Azotobacter chroococcum and Alcaligenes faecalis was the most effective treatment and could be considered a premium tool used in facing environmental problems, especially saline soils.
Correction: Borin, D., et al. Magnetorheological Effect of Magnetoactive Elastomer with a Permalloy Filler. Polymers 2020, 12, 2371
Authors: Borin Dmitry , Stepanov Gennady , Musikhin Anton , Zubarev Andrey , Bakhtiiarov Anton , Storozhenko Pavel
Published: January 2021

The authors wish to make a change to the published paper [...]
Synthesis, Characterization, and CO2/N2 Separation Performance of POEM-g-PAcAm Comb Copolymer Membranes
Authors: Park Byeong Ju , Kim Na Un , Lee Chang Soo , Kim Jong Hak
Published: January 2021

Alcohol-soluble comb copolymers were synthesized from rubbery poly(oxyethylene methacrylate) (POEM) and glassy polyacrylamide (PAcAm) via economical and facile free-radical polymerization. The synthesis of comb copolymers was confirmed by Fourier-transform infrared and proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopic studies. The bicontinuous microphase-separated morphology and amorphous structure of comb copolymers were confirmed by wide-angle X-ray scattering, differential scanning calorimetry, and transmission electron microscopy. With increasing POEM content in the comb copolymer, both CO2 permeability and CO2/N2 selectivity gradually increased. A mechanically strong free-standing membrane was obtained at a POEM:PAcAm ratio of 70:30 wt%, in which the CO2 permeability and CO2/N2 selectivity reached 261.7 Barrer (1 Barrer = 10−10 cm3 (STP) cm cm−2 s−1 cmHg−1) and 44, respectively. These values are greater than those of commercially available Pebax and among the highest separation performances reported previously for alcohol-soluble, all-polymeric membranes without porous additives. The high performances were attributed to an effective CO2-philic pathway for the ethylene oxide group in the rubbery POEM segments and prevention of the N2 permeability by glassy PAcAm chains.
Epoxy\Epoxy Composite\Epoxy Hybrid Composite Coatings for Tribological Applications—A Review
Authors: Baig M. M. A. , Samad M. Abdul
Published: January 2021

Epoxy composite coating systems generally find their usage in applications such as, fluid handling systems to protect components from corrosive media. However, their use in demanding tribological applications such as, in sliding components of machines, are known to be limited. This is often attributed to their low load bearing capacity combined with poor thermal stability under severe p-v regimes. Researchers have tried to enhance the tribological properties of the epoxy coatings using a combination of several types of micro/nano sized fillers to produce composite or hybrid composite coatings. Hence, this review paper aims to focus on the recent advances made in developing the epoxy coating systems. Special attention would be paid to the types and properties of nano-fillers that have been commonly used to develop these coatings, different dispersion techniques adopted and the effects that each of these fillers (and their combinations) have on the tribological properties of these coatings.
Thermoplastic Pultrusion: A Review
Authors: Minchenkov Kirill , Vedernikov Alexander , Safonov Alexander , Akhatov Iskander
Published: January 2021

Pultrusion is one of the most efficient methods of producing polymer composite structures with a constant cross-section. Pultruded profiles are widely used in bridge construction, transportation industry, energy sector, and civil and architectural engineering. However, in spite of the many advantages thermoplastic composites have over the thermoset ones, the thermoplastic pultrusion market demonstrates significantly lower production volumes as compared to those of the thermoset one. Examining the thermoplastic pultrusion processes, raw materials, mechanical properties of thermoplastic composites, process simulation techniques, patents, and applications of thermoplastic pultrusion, this overview aims to analyze the existing gap between thermoset and thermoplastic pultrusions in order to promote the development of the latter one. Therefore, observing thermoplastic pultrusion from a new perspective, we intend to identify current shortcomings and issues, and to propose future research and application directions.
Research on the Preparation and Anticorrosion Properties of EP/CeO2-GO Nanocomposite Coating
Authors: Liu Xiaoyan , Jie Handuo , Liu Ruidan , Liu Yanqi , Li Tianyu , Lyu Kai
Published: January 2021

Due to its special two-dimensional lamellar structure, graphene possesses an excellent shielding effect, hydrophobic characteristics and large specific surface area, which can effectively isolate the internal structure from the external corrosive media. However, lamellar graphene is easy to stack and agglomerate, which limits its anti-corrosion performance. In this paper, cerium oxide-graphene oxide (CeO2-GO) nanocomposites were prepared by a hydrothermal synthesis method. Field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) were applied for microstructure examination, showing that a large number of nanoscale granular cerium oxide grew on the lamellar graphene oxide surface, which improved the dispersion performance of graphene inside the matrix. The anti-corrosion properties of the coating were analyzed and illustrated by open circuit potential (OCP), frequency response analysis, Tafel curve and Mott–Schottky curve. The results indicated that the CeO2-GO (4:1) nanocomposite not only eliminated the agglomeration of graphene to some extent, but also prepared the graphene epoxy coating with good dispersion, which further promoted its anti-corrosion performance. The paper proposed a feasible solution for GO dispersion in cement-based materials and lays a solid theoretical foundation for the engineering application of cerium oxide-graphene oxide modified anticorrosive coating.
Initiated Chemical Vapor Deposition (iCVD) Functionalized Polylactic Acid–Marine Algae Composite Patch for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Reichstein Wiebke , Sommer Levke , Veziroglu Salih , Sayin Selin , Schröder Stefan , Mishra Yogendra Kumar , Saygili Eyüp İlker , Karayürek Fatih , Açil Yahya , Wiltfang Jörg , Gülses Aydin , Faupel Franz , Aktas Oral Cenk
Published: January 2021

The current study aimed to describe the fabrication of a composite patch by incorporating marine algae powders (MAPs) into poly-lactic acid (PLA) for bone tissue engineering. The prepared composite patch was functionalized with the co-polymer, poly (2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate-co-ethylene glycol dimethacrylate) (p(HEMA-co-EGDMA)) via initiated chemical vapor deposition (iCVD) to improve its wettability and overall biocompatibility. The iCVD functionalized MAP–PLA composite patch showed superior cell interaction of human osteoblasts. Following the surface functionalization by p(HEMA-co-EGDMA) via the iCVD technique, a highly hydrophilic patch was achieved without tailoring any morphological and structural properties. Moreover, the iCVD modified composite patch exhibited ideal cell adhesion for human osteoblasts, thus making the proposed patch suitable for potential biomedical applications including bone tissue engineering, especially in the fields of dentistry and orthopedy.
Silicon-Containing Polymeric Materials
Authors: Blanco Ignazio
Published: January 2021

When thinking about a chemical element that has contributed to the technological progress over the last two centuries, carbon and all carbon-based materials immediately come to mind [...]
Epoxy-Based Structural Self-Adhesive Tapes Modified with Acrylic Syrups Prepared via a Free Radical Photopolymerization Process
Authors: Gziut Konrad , Kowalczyk Agnieszka , Schmidt Beata , Kowalczyk Krzysztof , Weisbrodt Mateusz
Published: January 2021

New modifiers (i.e., acrylic syrups; ASs) of epoxy-resin-based thermally curable structural self-adhesive tapes (SATs) were prepared via a free radical bulk polymerization (FRBP) of n-butyl acrylate, butyl methacrylate, glycidyl methacrylate, and hydroxybutyl acrylate. In the process, two kinds of UV-photoinitiators (i.e., monoacylphosphine oxide/Omnirad TPO and bisacylphosphine oxide/Omnirad 819) and various mixing speed of the monomers mixture (200–1000 rpm) were applied. The TPO-based syrups exhibited a lower copolymers content (10–24 wt%), dynamic viscosity (<0.1 Pa·s), molecular weights (Mn and Mw, and polydispersity (1.9–2.5) than these with Omnirad 819. Additionally, the higher mixing speed significantly reduced monomers conversion and viscosity of ASs as well as molecular weights of the acrylate copolymers. These parameters influenced the properties of thermally uncured (e.g., adhesion) and thermally cured SATs (shear strength of aluminum/SAT/aluminum overlap joints). Better self-adhesive features were observed for SATs-TPO (based on ASs with lower monomers conversion, Mn and Mw); however, a slightly higher shear strength was noted for the thermally cured SAT-819 (ASs with higher monomers conversion, Mn and Mw). An impact of polydispersity of the acrylate copolymers as well as crosslinking degree of thermally cured SATs on the mechanical strength was also revealed.
Investigation on the Performance Enhancement and Emission Reduction of a Biodiesel Fueled Diesel Engine Based on an Improved Entire Diesel Engine Simulation Model
Authors: Yu Weigang , Zhang Zhiqing , Liu Bo
Published: January 2021

In order to improve the efficiency of the diesel engine and reduce emissions, an improved heat transfer model was developed in an AVL-BOOST environment which is a powerful and user-friendly software for engine steady-state and transient performance analysis. The improved heat transfer model considers the advantages of the Woschni1978 heat transfer model and Honhenberg heat transfer model. In addition, a five-component biodiesel skeletal mechanism containing 475 reactions and 134 species was developed to simulate the fuel spray process and combustion process since it contained methyl linolenate, methyl linoleate, methyl oleate, methyl stearate, and methyl palmitate, which are a majority component in most biodiesel. Finally, the propulsion and load characteristics of a diesel engine fueled with biodiesel fuel were investigated by the improved heat transfer model in term of power, brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC), soot and NOx emissions. Similarly, the effects of the fuel injection rate on the diesel engine’s characteristic fueled with biodiesel was studied. The result showed that the errors between experiment and simulation were less than 2%. Thus, the simulation model could predict the propulsion and load characteristics of the diesel engine. The nozzle diameter, injection pressure, and injection advance angle are significant to the injection system. Thus, it is very important to choose the injection rate reasonably.
Weakening Investigation of Reservoir Rock by Coupled Uniaxial Compression, Computed Tomography and Digital Image Correlation Methods: A Case Study
Authors: Shen Peiwu , Tang Huiming , Zhang Bocheng , Ning Yibing , Su Xuexue , Sun Sixuan
Published: January 2021

Cyclic wetting and drying treatment is commonly used to accelerate the weakening process of reservoir rock. The weakening is reflected in strength variation and structure variation, while the latter receives less attention. Based on a series of cyclic wetting and drying tests, this study tentatively applied the uniaxial compressive test, computed tomography (CT) test and digital image correlation (DIC) test to investigate the weakening of slate in a reservoir area. Test results show that the weakening is mainly reflected in the reduction of compressive strength, followed by the decrease of ability to resist cracking and elastic deformation. The weakening seems more likely to be caused by structure variation rather than composition change. Two failure modes, e.g., splitting and splitting-tension, are concluded based on the crack paths: the splitting failure mode occurs in the highly weathered samples and the splitting-tension failure mode appears in the low-weathered samples. The transition zones of deformation are inside samples. The nephogram maps quantify the continuous deformation and correspond to the aforementioned structure variation process. This study offers comprehensive methods to the weakening investigation of slate in reservoir area and may provide qualitative reference in the stability evaluation of related slate rock slope.