bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
KCa channel blockers increase effectiveness of the EGF receptor TK inhibitor erlotinib in non-small cell lung cancer cells (A549)
Authors: Glaser Felix , Hundehege Petra , Bulk Etmar , Todesca Luca Matteo , Schimmelpfennig Sandra , Nass Elke , Budde Thomas , Meuth Sven G. , Schwab Albrecht 
Published: September 2021

AbstractNon-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has a poor prognosis with a 5 year survival rate of only ~ 10%. Important driver mutations underlying NSCLC affect the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) causing the constitutive activation of its tyrosine kinase domain. There are efficient EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), but patients develop inevitably a resistance against these drugs. On the other hand, KCa3.1 channels contribute to NSCLC progression so that elevated KCa3.1 expression is a strong predictor of poor NSCLC patient prognosis. The present study tests whether blocking KCa3.1 channels increases the sensitivity of NSCLC cells towards the EGFR TKI erlotinib and overcomes drug resistance. mRNA expression of KCa3.1 channels in erlotinib-sensitive and -resistant NSCLC cells was analysed in datasets from Gene expression omnibus (GEO) and ArrayExpress. We assessed proliferation and migration of NSCLC cells. These (live cell-imaging) experiments were complemented by patch clamp experiments and Western blot analyses. We identified three out of four datasets comparing erlotinib-sensitive and -resistant NSCLC cells which revealed an altered expression of KCa3.1 mRNA in erlotinib-resistant NSCLC cells. Therefore, we evaluated the combined effect of erlotinib and the KCa3.1 channel inhibition with sencapoc. Erlotinib elicits a dose-dependent inhibition of migration and proliferation of NSCLC cells. The simultaneous application of the KCa3.1 channel blocker senicapoc increases the sensitivity towards a low dose of erlotinib (300 nmol/L) which by itself has no effect on migration and proliferation. Partial erlotinib resistance can be overcome by KCa3.1 channel blockade. The sensitivity towards erlotinib as well as the potentiating effect of KCa3.1 blockade is further increased by mimicking hypoxia. Our results suggest that KCa3.1 channel blockade may constitute a therapeutic concept for treating NSCLC and overcome EGFR TKI resistance. We propose that this is due to complementary mechanisms of action of both blockers.
Mesenchymal stromal cells as carriers of IL-12 reduce primary and metastatic tumors of murine melanoma
Authors: Kułach Natalia , Pilny Ewelina , Cichoń Tomasz , Czapla Justyna , Jarosz-Biej Magdalena , Rusin Marek , Drzyzga Alina , Matuszczak Sybilla , Szala Stanisław , Smolarczyk Ryszard 
Published: September 2021

AbstractDue to immunosuppressive properties and confirmed tropism towards cancer cells mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) have been used in many trials. In our study we used these cells as carriers of IL-12 in the treatment of mice with primary and metastatic B16-F10 melanomas. IL-12 has confirmed anti-cancer activity, induces a strong immune response against cancer cells and acts as an anti-angiogenic agent. A major limitation of the use of IL-12 in therapy is its systemic toxicity. The aim of the work was to develop a system in which cytokine may be administered intravenously without toxic side effects. In this study MSC were used as carriers of the IL-12. We confirmed antitumor effectiveness of the cells secreting IL-12 (MSC/IL-12) in primary and metastatic murine melanoma models. We observed inhibition of tumor growth and a significant reduction in the number of metastases in mice after MSC/IL-12 administration. MSC/IL-12 decreased vascular density and increased the number of anticancer M1 macrophages and CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes in tumors of treated mice. To summarize, we showed that MSC are an effective, safe carrier of IL-12 cytokine. Administered systemically they exert therapeutic properties of IL-12 cytokine without toxicity. Therapeutic effect may be a result of pleiotropic (proinflammatory and anti-angiogenic) properties of IL-12 released by modified MSC.
Localised labyrinthine patterns in ecosystems
Authors: Clerc M. G. , Echeverría-Alar S. , Tlidi M. 
Published: September 2021

AbstractSelf-organisation is a ubiquitous phenomenon in ecosystems. These systems can experience transitions from a uniform cover towards the formation of vegetation patterns as a result of symmetry-breaking instability. They can be either periodic or localised in space. Localised vegetation patterns consist of more or less circular spots or patches that can be either isolated or randomly distributed in space. We report on a striking patterning phenomenon consisting of localised vegetation labyrinths. This intriguing pattern is visible in satellite photographs taken in many territories of Africa and Australia. They consist of labyrinths which is spatially irregular pattern surrounded by either a homogeneous cover or a bare soil. The phenomenon is not specific to particular plants or soils. They are observed on strictly homogenous environmental conditions on flat landscapes, but they are also visible on hills. The spatial size of localized labyrinth ranges typically from a few hundred meters to ten kilometres. A simple modelling approach based on the interplay between short-range and long-range interactions governing plant communities or on the water dynamics explains the observations reported here.
Future intensification of extreme Aleutian low events and their climate impacts
Authors: Giamalaki K. , Beaulieu C. , Henson S. A. , Martin A. P. , Kassem H. , Faranda D. 
Published: September 2021

AbstractExtreme Aleutian Low (AL) events have been associated with major ecosystem reorganisations and unusual weather patterns in the Pacific region, with serious socio-economic consequences. Yet, their future evolution and impacts on atmosphere–ocean interactions remain uncertain. Here, a large ensemble of historical and future runs from the Community Earth System Model is used to investigate the evolution of AL extremes. The frequency and persistence of AL extremes are quantified and their connection with climatic variables is examined. AL extremes become more frequent and persistent under the RCP8.5 scenario, associated with changes in precipitation and air temperature patterns over North America. Future changes in AL extremes also increase the variability of the sea surface temperature and net heat fluxes in the Kuroshio Extension, the most significant heat and energy flux region of the basin. The increased frequency and persistence of future AL extremes may potentially cause substantial changes in fisheries and ecosystems of the entire Pacific region as a knock-on effect.
Vernier effect using in-line highly coupled multicore fibers
Authors: Cuando-Espitia Natanael , Fuentes-Fuentes Miguel A. , Velázquez-Benítez Amado , Amezcua Rodrigo , Hernández-Cordero Juan , May-Arrioja Daniel A. 
Published: September 2021

AbstractWe demonstrate optical fiber sensors based on highly coupled multicore fibers operating with the optical Vernier effect. The sensors are constructed using a simple device incorporating single-mode fibers (SMFs) and a segment of a multicore fiber. In particular, we evaluated the performance of a sensor based on a seven-core fiber (SCF) spliced at both ends to conventional SMFs, yielding a versatile arrangement for realizing Vernier-based fiber sensors. The SMF–SCF–SMF device can be fabricated using standard splicing procedures and serve as a “building block” for both, reflection and transmission sensing configurations. As demonstrated with our experimental results, the Vernier arrangements can yield a ten-fold increase in sensitivity for temperature measurements compared to a conventional single SMF–SCF–SMF device, thereby confirming the enhanced sensitivity that can be attained with this optical effect. Furthermore, through theoretical analysis, we obtain the relevant parameters that must be optimized in order to achieve an optimal sensitivity for a specific application. Our findings thus provide the necessary guidelines for constructing Vernier-based sensors with all-fiber devices based on highly coupled multicore optical fibers, which constitutes an ideal framework to develop highly sensitive fiber sensors for different applications.
Influence of electrical part of traction transmission on dynamic characteristics of railway vehicles based on electromechanical coupling model
Authors: Wang Xun , Peng Tiefeng , Wu Pingbo , Cui Litong 
Published: September 2021

AbstractWith the continuous development of rail transit industry and the acceleration of train speed, higher requirements are established for the operation quality of high-speed trains and the reliability of transmission system. In the process of train running, speed fluctuation and vibrations from various parts of the driving devices are common, which could be greatly affected by the traction torque. During traction transmission, the harmonic vibration torque exists in traction motor due to that the motor is connected with non-sinusoidal alternating current. In order to study the vibration influence of the electrical component of traction transmission system on the rail vehicles, i.e., bogie and car-body, an electro-mechanical coupling dynamic model for rail transit vehicles was established by explicitly incorporating the electric-induced traction into the transmission model. The dynamics responses of the vertical, lateral and longitudinal acceleration on vehicle components, such as axle box and car-body were quantitative analyzed. By comparison with field test, it was observed that there was a vibration peak of 12-times of the fundamental rotor frequency on the bogie frame and axle box, which existed at conditions of traction, uniform speed and braking. However, the vibration acceleration exhibit nearly little difference with or without traction force, especially at low frequency domain < 100 Hz.
Strongly direction-dependent magnetoplasmons in mixed Faraday–Voigt configurations
Authors: Moradi Afshin , Wubs Martijn 
Published: September 2021

AbstractThe electrostatic theory of surface magnetoplasmons on a semi-infinite magnetized electron gas is generalized to mixed Faraday–Voigt configurations. We analyze a mixed Faraday–Voigt type of electrostatic surface waves that is strongly direction-dependent, and may be realized on narrow-gap semiconductors in the THz regime. A general expression for the dispersion relation is presented, with its dependence on the magnitude and orientation of the applied magnetic field. Remarkably, the group velocity is always perpendicular to the phase velocity. Both velocity and energy relations of the found magnetoplasmons are discussed in detail. In the appropriate limits the known surface magnetoplasmons in the higher-symmetry Faraday and Voigt configurations are recovered.
Development of the first axillary in vitro shoot multiplication protocol for coconut palms
Authors: Wilms Hannes , De Bièvre Dries , Longin Kevin , Swennen Rony , Rhee Juhee , Panis Bart 
Published: September 2021

AbstractThe coconut palm or “tree of life” is one of nature’s most useful plants and the demand for its fruit is increasing. However, coconut production is threatened by ageing plantations, pests and diseases. Currently, the palm is exclusively propagated via seeds, limiting the amount of planting material. A novel micropropagation method is presented, based on axillary shoot formation. Apical meristems of in vitro coconut seedlings are cultured onto Y3 medium containing 1 µM TDZ. This induces the apical meristem to proliferate through axillary shoots in ~ 27% of the initiated explants. These axillary shoots are seen as white clumps of proliferating tissue and can be multiplied at a large scale or regenerated into rooted in vitro plantlets. This innovative micropropagation method will enable the production of disease-free, high quality in vitro plantlets, which will solve the worldwide scarcity of coconut planting material.
Study on layout optimization of sewage outfalls: a case study of wastewater treatment plants in Xiamen
Authors: Wang Cui , Guo Zhouhua , Li Qingsheng , Fang Jing 
Published: September 2021

AbstractIn order to protect the offshore environment and strengthen the comprehensive rectification of sewage outfalls, an evaluation method of regional sewage outfalls by combining the marine numerical simulation and comprehensive evaluation technology was constructed, considering the marine environmental capacity and the ecological impact of sewage discharge from outfalls on the marine eco-environment sensitive areas. Then the layout rationality of each outfall was evaluated and the discharge scale was optimized with a case study of existing sewage outfalls in Xiamen. The results show that, the comprehensive evaluation score of Yundang outfall was 3 points in 2025, evaluated as the outfall with irrational layout. In 2035, the comprehensive evaluation scores of Fenglin and Dalipu outfalls were 3 and 2 points respectively, evaluated as the outfall with irrational discharge scale. It is suggested to control the scale of expansion or increase the reclaimed water reuse rate in Jimei and Gaoqi Wastewater Treatment Plants. This method has enriched the evaluation system for layout optimization of sewage outfalls, providing scientific supports for comprehensive improvement of sewage outfalls and marine environmental management.
Interplay between membrane active host defense peptides and heme modulates their assemblies and in vitro activity
Authors: Juhász Tünde , Quemé-Peña Mayra , Kővágó Bence , Mihály Judith , Ricci Maria , Horváti Kata , Bősze Szilvia , Zsila Ferenc , Beke-Somfai Tamás 
Published: September 2021

AbstractIn the emerging era of antimicrobial resistance, the susceptibility to co-infections of patients suffering from either acquired or inherited hemolytic disorders can lead to dramatic increase in mortality rates. Closely related, heme liberated during hemolysis is one of the major sources of iron, which is vital for both host and invading microorganisms. While recent intensive research in the field has demonstrated that heme exerts diverse local effects including impairment of immune cells functions, it is almost completely unknown how it may compromise key molecules of our innate immune system, such as antimicrobial host defense peptides (HDPs). Since HDPs hold great promise as natural therapeutic agents against antibiotic-resistant microbes, understanding the effects that may modulate their action in microbial infection is crucial. Here we explore how hemin can interact directly with selected HDPs and influence their structure and membrane activity. It is revealed that induced helical folding, large assembly formation, and altered membrane activity is promoted by hemin. However, these effects showed variations depending mainly on peptide selectivity toward charged lipids, and the affinity of the peptide and hemin to lipid bilayers. Hemin-peptide complexes are sought to form semi-folded co-assemblies, which are present even with model membranes resembling mammalian or bacterial lipid compositions. In vitro cell-based toxicity assays supported that toxic effects of HDPs could be attenuated due to their assembly formation. These results are in line with our previous findings on peptide-lipid-small molecule systems suggesting that small molecules present in the complex in vivo milieu can regulate HDP function. Inversely, diverse effects of endogenous compounds could also be manipulated by HDPs.
Differences and similarities in the conceptualization of COVID-19 and other diseases in the first Italian lockdown
Authors: Mazzuca Claudia , Falcinelli Ilenia , Michalland Arthur-Henri , Tummolini Luca , Borghi Anna M. 
Published: September 2021

AbstractSeveral studies have highlighted the flexible character of our conceptual system. However, less is known about the construction of meaning and the impact of novel concepts on the structuring of our conceptual space. We addressed these questions by collecting free listing data from Italian participants on a newly–and yet nowadays critical–introduced concept, i.e., COVID-19, during the first Italian lockdown. We also collected data for other five illness-related concepts. Our results show that COVID-19’s representation is mostly couched in the emotional sphere, predominantly evoking fear—linked to both possible health-related concerns and social-emotional ones. In contrast with initial public debates we found that participants did not assimilate COVID-19 neither completely to severe illnesses (e.g., tumor) nor completely to mild illnesses (e.g., flu). Moreover, we also found that COVID-19 has shaped conceptual relations of other concepts in the illness domain, making certain features and associations more salient (e.g., flu-fear; disease-mask). Overall, our results show for the first time how a novel, real concept molds existing conceptual relations, testifying the malleability of our conceptual system.
Integrative pan-cancer analysis of MEK1 aberrations and the potential clinical implications
Authors: Zhou Zhiyang , Peng Bi , Li Juanni , Gao Kewa , Cai Yuan , Xu Zhijie , Yan Yuanliang 
Published: September 2021

AbstractAlterations of mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 1 (MEK1) are commonly associated with tumorigenesis, and MEK1 is thought to be a suitable targeted therapy for various cancers. However, abnormal MEK1 alterations and their relevant clinical implications are unknown. Our research comprehensively analyzed the MEK1 alteration spectrum and provided novel insight for targeted therapies. There were 7694 samples covering 32 types of cancer from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. They were used to conduct an integrative analysis of MEK1 expression, alterations, functional impacts and clinical significance. There was a dramatic difference in the alteration frequency and distribution and clinical implications in 32 types of cancer from the TCGA. Skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM) has the most alterations and has therapeutic targets located in the protein kinase domain, and the growing expression of SKCM is positively related to patient prognosis. MEK1 expression in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), kidney renal papillary cell carcinoma (KIRP), esophageal carcinoma (ESCA) and liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) is decreased, which is associated with better prognosis, while MEK1 expression in thymoma (THYM), stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD), kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC), testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSC) is increased, which is associated with better prognosis. Mesothelioma (MESO) has the second highest alterations but has no therapy targets. This study provided a great and detailed interpretation of MEK1 expression, alterations and clinical implications in 32 types of cancer and reminded us to fill the gap in MEK1 research from a new perspective.
Entropy optimization and heat transfer analysis in MHD Williamson nanofluid flow over a vertical Riga plate with nonlinear thermal radiation
Authors: Rooman Muhammad , Jan Muhammad Asif , Shah Zahir , Kumam Poom , Alshehri Ahmed 
Published: September 2021

AbstractThe entropy generation for a reactive Williamson nanofluid flow past a vertical Riga system is the subject of this article. The effects of MHD, thermophoresis, nonlinear heat radiation and varying heat conductivity are modeled into the heat equation in the established model. Suitable similarity transformations are examined to bring down the partial differential equations into ordinary differential equations. The Homotopy analysis approach is used to solve the dimensionless transport equations analytically. The graphic information of the various parameters that emerged from the model is effectively collected and deliberated. The temperature field expands with thermophoresis, Brownian motion and temperature ratio parameters as the modified Hartmann number forces an increase in velocity, according to the findings of this analysis. With the increase in the fluid material terms, the entropy generation and Bejan number increase. Riga plate has numerous applications in improving the thermo-physics features of a fluid, the value of magnetic field embraces an important role in fluid mechanics. An external electric field can be used to control flow in weak electrically conductive fluids. The Riga plate is one of the devices used in this regard. It’s a device that creates electromagnetic fields. They produce the Lorentz force which is a force that directs fluid flow. The authors have discussed the entropy optimization for a reactive Williamson nanofluid flow past a vertical Riga plate is addressed. This is the first investigation on mass and heat transfer flow that the authors are aware of, and no similar work has yet been published in the literature. A thorough mathematical examination is also required to demonstrate the model’s regularity. The authors believe that the results acquired are novel and have not been plagiarized from any other sources.
Current contrasting population trends among North American hummingbirds
Authors: English Simon G. , Bishop Christine A. , Wilson Scott , Smith Adam C. 
Published: September 2021

AbstractAs pollinators, hummingbirds play a critical role for both the function of ecological communities and in providing ecosystem services for people. To examine the conservation status of North American hummingbirds, we analyzed Breeding Bird Survey data for 8 species and 3 genera from 1970 to 2019 (long-term) and from 2009 to 2019 (short-term, approximately three generations). Among the Selasphorus genus, Allen’s, rufous, and broad-tailed hummingbirds have declined since 1970, and the rate of decline increased from 2009 to 2019. Contrasting the trends from the past half-century, ruby-throated hummingbirds of Eastern North America have declined since approximately 2004 throughout most of the species’ breeding range. In contrast, Anna’s hummingbird populations have increased dramatically since 1970 in their range in western North America. We also tested whether apparent declines might be due to a growing mismatch between the timing of breeding and the timing of BBS surveys. We found no evidence for such an effect, thus supporting the hypothesis that trends reflect true demographic change. Our analyses and geographic modelling highlight the urgent need of regulatory action to conserve hummingbirds uniquely capable of filling their niche in North America.
Corrosion mitigation of mild steel in hydrochloric acid solution using grape seed extract
Authors: Marhamati Fatemeh , Mahdavian Mohammad , Bazgir Saeed 
Published: September 2021

AbstractPlant extracts have gained a lot of attention due to their ecofriendly nature for corrosion inhibition. In this study, we examined the inhibition performance of grape seed extract as an eco-environmental inhibitor for mild steel in hydrochloric acid medium. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, potentiodynamic polarization, and electrochemical noise techniques were employed to study mild steel's electrochemical behavior in the hydrochloric acid solutions containing grape seed extract. Results depicted that grape seed extract could successfully inhibit the corrosion of mild steel. Besides, water droplet contact angle, field-emission scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy were utilized to study the surface of mild steel specimens after dipping in acidic solutions. Electrochemical impedance results showed a corrosion efficiency of about 88% in 300 ppm of grape seed extract. Also, results revealed more compact corrosion products with improved integrity in the presence of grape seed, which confirmed electrochemical test results.