bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aerated Irrigation and Pruning Residue Biochar on N2O Emission, Yield and Ion Uptake of Komatsuna
Authors: Oo Aung Zaw , Sudo Shigeto , Matsuura Shoji , Win Khin Thuzar , Gonai Takeru
Published: October 2018

After irrigation in intensive vegetable cultivation, the soil is filled with water leading to reduced oxygen content of the soil air which will affect vegetable growth and soil N2O emission. In this study, the effect of aerated irrigation and residue biochar on soil N2O emission, yield, and ion uptake of komatsuna grown in Andosol was explored. The experiment included four treatments; control (tap water irrigation), aerated water irrigation, pruning residue biochar with tap water irrigation, and a combination of aerated irrigation and biochar. The results showed that aerated irrigation had no effect on plant growth, but it also increased N2O emission by 12.3% for several days after planting. Plant ion uptake was not affected by aerated irrigation. Biochar amendment increased shoot dry weight and significantly reduced soil N2O emission by 27.9% compared with the control. Plant uptake of N and K also increased with biochar. This study showed that pruning residue biochar has the potential to mitigate N2O emission while increasing vegetable growth and plant nutrient uptake. However, the study soil, Andosol, already has high soil porosity with low bulk density. Thus, further injection of air through irrigation showed no effect on plant growth but increased N2O emission, hence soil aeration was not a limiting factor in Andosol.
Applying the WHO International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health in Nursing Assessment of Population Health
Authors: Gómez-Salgado Juan , Jacobsohn Lia , Frade Fátima , Romero-Martin Macarena , Ruiz-Frutos Carlos
Published: October 2018

Classification systems constitute an important contribution to nursing practice, as they provide standardized frameworks for communication between nurses and other healthcare professionals. International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) provides a unified and standardized language, as well as a working structure, for the description of health and health-related states. This paper aims to describe some of the available classifications used in nursing practice and to identify the potential value provided by the application of the World Health Organization (WHO) International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health by all healthcare professionals. With this purpose, a concept analysis was conducted. The relevant nursing classifications were analyzed and related evidence on the use of ICF classification was reviewed to provide a discussion on the application of ICF in nursing practice. The use of ICF could be beneficial in different areas of nursing practice, as it provides a more comprehensive framework to classify nursing outcomes and interventions, improving areas such as interprofessional communication and optimization of care. Although there is published evidence on the use of ICF core sets, further research is needed on this area.
Determinants of Food Safety Level in Fruit and Vegetable Wholesalers’ Supply Chain: Evidence from Spain and France
Authors: Hernández-Rubio Jesús , Pérez-Mesa Juan C. , Piedra-Muñoz Laura , Galdeano-Gómez Emilio
Published: October 2018

Food safety management in short supply chains of fruit and vegetables, controlled by large retailers, has been widely studied in the literature. However, when it comes to traditional long supply chains, which include a greater number of intermediaries and wholesalers who, in some cases, play a dual role as resellers and producers, the mechanisms which promote the use of safety certifications have yet to be clearly defined. The present study intended to fill this gap in the literature and shed light on the food safety level that exists in this channel. In addition, this work attempted to identify the existence of differences between both sales systems. For this purpose, the empirical research studied the most important variables that influence the food safety level of some of the main European fruit and vegetable wholesalers. A survey was thus designed and later applied to Spanish and French intermediaries working in key wholesale markets and in the southeast of Spain, which is the leading commercialization area of these products in Europe. The results revealed the positive influence of specific customers (big retailers) on establishing stricter safety controls within wholesale companies. It was also observed that specific wholesalers also play an important role in the system, namely those dedicated to importing, but which are also responsible for quality and safety inspection of agri-food products exported from third countries into the European Union.
Robust Compositional Analysis of Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour Data
Authors: Štefelová Nikola , Dygrýn Jan , Hron Karel , Gába Aleš , Rubín Lukáš , Palarea-Albaladejo Javier
Published: October 2018

Although there is an increasing awareness of the suitability of using compositional data methodology in public health research, classical methods of statistical analysis have been primarily used so far. The present study aims to illustrate the potential of robust statistics to model movement behaviour using Czech adolescent data. We investigated: (1) the inter-relationship between various physical activity (PA) intensities, extended to model relationships by age; and (2) the associations between adolescents’ PA and sedentary behavior (SB) structure and obesity. These research questions were addressed using three different types of compositional regression analysis—compositional covariates, compositional response, and regression between compositional parts. Robust counterparts of classical regression methods were used to lessen the influence of possible outliers. We outlined the differences in both classical and robust methods of compositional data analysis. There was a pattern in Czech adolescents’ movement/non-movement behavior—extensive SB was related to higher amounts of light-intensity PA, and vigorous PA ratios formed the main source of potential aberrant observations; aging is associated with more SB and vigorous PA at the expense of light-intensity PA and moderate-intensity PA. The robust counterparts indicated that they might provide more stable estimates in the presence of outlying observations. The findings suggested that replacing time spent in SB with vigorous PA may be a powerful tool against adolescents’ obesity.
The “Dark Side” Effects of Social Capital on Harmful Drinking among Chinese Community Residents: A Multilevel Study
Authors: Nie Xin , Zhu Yongkai , Fu Hua , Dai Junming , Gao Junling
Published: October 2018

Background: To determine the effects of social capital on harmful drinking (HD) among Chinese community residents using a multilevel study. Methods: A cross-sectional study conducted from 2017–2018. In total, 13,610 participants were randomly interviewed from 29 districts of 3 cities in China with a multi-stage sampling procedure. Social capital, including social cohesion, membership in social organizations, and frequency of social participation, were assessed using validated scales. HD was assessed using the CAGE four-item questionnaire. Multilevel models were developed to determine whether social capital was related to HD when socioeconomic and demographic covariates were controlled. Results: In general, the prevalence of HD was 8.18%, and more specifically, 13.77% for men and 2.74% for women. After controlling for covariates and stratifying by gender, compared to residents in the low individual-level membership of social organizations, we found that the odds ratio (OR) for HD was 1.30 with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 1.07–1.56 among men and 1.95 (95% CI: 1.29–2.97) among women. Compared to residents in the low individual-level frequency of social participation groups, the odds ratio of HD among women was 1.58 (95% CI: 1.10–2.26). There was no association between district-level social capital and HD. Conclusions: A high level of social capital may promote HD among the residents of Chinese neighborhoods. Intervention to modify social capital under the Chinese drinking culture may help reduce HD.
The Risk-Taking Propensity of Construction Workers—An Application of Quasi-Expert Interview
Authors: Low Banus Kam Leung , Man Siu Shing , Chan Alan Hoi Shou
Published: October 2018

High accident rates have been a complicated and persistent problem in the Hong Kong construction industry. This situation has stimulated this investigation into factors that influence the risk-taking propensity of construction workers. However, interviewing workers who had a bad experience is problematic because changes in attitude and perception may occur as a result of such an experience. Using quasi-expert interviews can reduce this problem. The objective of this study was to identify factors that influence the risk-taking propensity of construction workers. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 safety professionals all with accident inspection experience and six super-safe workers with no incident record for the past five years. Seven factors that affect the risk-taking propensity of construction workers were successfully identified. Each factor is thoughtfully discussed, and this study shows that quasi-expert interview is a pragmatic approach for deepening the understanding of risk-taking propensity among construction workers. Findings of this study will hopefully help and encourage further quantitative research on the risk-taking propensity of construction workers with different perspectives.
Zerumbone, a Tropical Ginger Sesquiterpene of Zingiber officinale Roscoe, Attenuates α-MSH-Induced Melanogenesis in B16F10 Cells
Authors: Oh Taek-In , Jung Hye-Jeong , Lee Yoon-Mi , Lee Sujin , Kim Geon-Hee , Kan Sang-Yeon , Kang Hyeji , Oh Taerim , Ko Hyun Myung , Kwak Keun-Chang , Lim Ji-Hong
Published: October 2018

Zerumbone (ZER), an active constituent of the Zingiberaceae family, has been shown to exhibit several biological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anti-microbial, and anti-cancer; however, it has not been studied for anti-melanogenic properties. In the present study, we demonstrate that ZER and Zingiber officinale (ZO) extract significantly attenuate melanin accumulation in α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH)-stimulated mouse melanogenic B16F10 cells. Further, to elucidate the molecular mechanism by which ZER suppresses melanin accumulation, we analyzed the expression of melanogenesis-associated transcription factor, microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF), and its target genes, such as tyrosinase, tyrosinase-related protein 1 (TYRP1), and tyrosinase-related protein 2 (TYRP2), in B16F10 cells that are stimulated by α-MSH. Here, we found that ZER inhibits the MITF-mediated expression of melanogenic genes upon α-MSH stimulation. Additionally, cells treated with different concentrations of zerumbone and ZO showed increased extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) phosphorylation, which are involved in the degradation mechanism of MITF. Pharmacological inhibition of ERK1/2 using U0126 sufficiently reversed the anti-melanogenic effect of ZER, suggesting that increased phosphorylation of ERK1/2 is required for its anti-melanogenic activity. Taken together, these results suggest that ZER and ZO extract can be used as active ingredients in skin-whitening cosmetics because of their anti-melanogenic effect.
3D Bone Biomimetic Scaffolds for Basic and Translational Studies with Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Sobacchi Cristina , Erreni Marco , Strina Dario , Palagano Eleonora , Villa Anna , Menale Ciro
Published: October 2018

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are recognized as an attractive tool owing to their self-renewal and differentiation capacity, and their ability to secrete bioactive molecules and to regulate the behavior of neighboring cells within different tissues. Accumulating evidence demonstrates that cells prefer three-dimensional (3D) to 2D culture conditions, at least because the former are closer to their natural environment. Thus, for in vitro studies and in vivo utilization, great effort is being dedicated to the optimization of MSC 3D culture systems in view of achieving the intended performance. This implies understanding cell–biomaterial interactions and manipulating the physicochemical characteristics of biomimetic scaffolds to elicit a specific cell behavior. In the bone field, biomimetic scaffolds can be used as 3D structures, where MSCs can be seeded, expanded, and then implanted in vivo for bone repair or bioactive molecules release. Actually, the union of MSCs and biomaterial has been greatly improving the field of tissue regeneration. Here, we will provide some examples of recent advances in basic as well as translational research about MSC-seeded scaffold systems. Overall, the proliferation of tools for a range of applications witnesses a fruitful collaboration among different branches of the scientific community.
Designed Elastic Networks: Models of Complex Protein Machinery
Authors: Flechsig Holger , Togashi Yuichi
Published: October 2018

Recently, the design of mechanical networks with protein-inspired responses has become increasingly popular. Here, we review contributions which were motivated by studies of protein dynamics employing coarse-grained elastic network models. First, the concept of evolutionary optimization that we developed to design network structures which execute prescribed tasks is explained. We then review what presumably marks the origin of the idea to design complex functional networks which encode protein-inspired behavior, namely the design of an elastic network structure which emulates the cycles of ATP-powered conformational motion in protein machines. Two recent applications are reviewed. First, the construction of a model molecular motor, whose operation incorporates both the tight coupling power stroke as well as the loose coupling Brownian ratchet mechanism, is discussed. Second, the evolutionary design of network structures which encode optimal long-range communication between remote sites and represent mechanical models of allosteric proteins is presented. We discuss the prospects of designed protein-mimicking elastic networks as model systems to elucidate the design principles and functional signatures underlying the operation of complex protein machinery.
HPV-18 E6 Oncoprotein and Its Spliced Isoform E6*I Regulate the Wnt/β-Catenin Cell Signaling Pathway through the TCF-4 Transcriptional Factor
Authors: Muñoz-Bello J. Omar , Olmedo-Nieva Leslie , Castro-Muñoz Leonardo Josué , Manzo-Merino Joaquín , Contreras-Paredes Adriana , González-Espinosa Claudia , López-Saavedra Alejandro , Lizano Marcela
Published: October 2018

The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway regulates cell proliferation and differentiation and its aberrant activation in cervical cancer has been described. Persistent infection with high risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) is the most important factor for the development of this neoplasia, since E6 and E7 viral oncoproteins alter cellular processes, promoting cervical cancer development. A role of HPV-16 E6 in Wnt/β-catenin signaling has been proposed, although the participation of HPV-18 E6 has not been previously studied. The aim of this work was to investigate the participation of HPV-18 E6 and E6*I, in the regulation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Here, we show that E6 proteins up-regulate TCF-4 transcriptional activity and promote overexpression of Wnt target genes. In addition, it was demonstrated that E6 and E6*I bind to the TCF-4 (T cell factor 4) and β-catenin, impacting TCF-4 stabilization. We found that both E6 and E6*I proteins interact with the promoter of Sp5, in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, although differences in TCF-4 transcriptional activation were found among E6 intratype variants, no changes were observed in the levels of regulated genes. Furthermore, our data support that E6 proteins cooperate with β-catenin to promote cell proliferation.
PEG-Plasma Hydrogels Increase Epithelialization Using a Human Ex Vivo Skin Model
Authors: Stone Randolph , Wall John T. , Natesan Shanmugasundaram , Christy Robert J.
Published: October 2018

In vitro cell culture methods are used extensively to study cellular migration, proliferation, and differentiation, which play major roles in wound healing but the results often do not translate to the in vivo environment. One alternative would be to establish an ex vivo model utilizing human discarded skin to evaluate therapies in a more natural setting. The purpose of this study was to institute such a model by creating ‘wounds’ in the center of a piece of discarded skin and treating them with three different biomaterials: collagen, polyethylene glycol (PEG)-fibrin, or PEG-platelet free plasma (PFP). Explants were cultured for 14 days with supernatant and microscopy images collected every 3 days to assess cytotoxicity and epithelialization. After 14 days, the explants were fixed, sectioned, and stained for cytokeratin-10 (CK-10), alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and wheat germ (WG). Compared to controls, similar levels of cytotoxicity were detected for 12 days which decreased slightly at day 14. The PEG-PFP hydrogel-treated wounds epithelialized faster than other treatments at days 6 to 14. A 6-8 cell layer thick CK-10+ stratified epidermis had developed over the PEG-PFP hydrogel and cells co-stained by WG and α-SMA were observed within the hydrogel. An ex vivo model was established that can be used practically to screen different therapies exploring wound healing.
Comparative Analysis of the Integument Transcriptomes between stick Mutant and Wild-Type Silkworms
Authors: Tan Duan , Hu Hai , Tong Xiaoling , Han Minjin , Wu Songyuan , Ding Xin , Dai Fangyin , Lu Cheng
Published: October 2018

In insects, the integument provides mechanical support for the whole body and protects them from infections, physical and chemical injuries, and dehydration. Diversity in integument properties is often related to body shape, behavior, and survival rate. The stick (sk) silkworm is a spontaneous mutant with a stick-like larval body that is firm to the touch and, thus, less flexible. Analysis of the mechanical properties of the cuticles at day 3 of the fifth instar (L5D3) of sk larvae revealed higher storage modulus and lower loss tangent. Transcriptome sequencing identified a total of 19,969 transcripts that were expressed between wild-type Dazao and the sk mutant at L5D2, of which 11,596 transcripts were novel and detected in the integument. Differential expression analyses identified 710 upregulated genes and 1009 downregulated genes in the sk mutant. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis indicated that four chitin-binding peritrophin A domain genes and a chitinase gene were upregulated, whereas another four chitin-binding peritrophin A domain genes, a trehalase, and nine antimicrobial peptides were downregulated. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis indicated that two functional pathways, namely, fructose and mannose metabolism and tyrosine metabolism, were significantly enriched with differentially-expressed transcripts. This study provides a foundation for understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the development of the stiff exoskeleton in the sk mutant.
The Potential of Intrinsically Magnetic Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Tissue Engineering
Authors: Kerans Fransiscus F. A. , Lungaro Lisa , Azfer Asim , Salter Donald M.
Published: October 2018

The magnetization of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) has the potential to aid tissue engineering approaches by allowing tracking, targeting, and local retention of cells at the site of tissue damage. Commonly used methods for magnetizing cells include optimizing uptake and retention of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs). These appear to have minimal detrimental effects on the use of MSC function as assessed by in vitro assays. The cellular content of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) will, however, decrease with cell proliferation and the longer-term effects on MSC function are not entirely clear. An alternative approach to magnetizing MSCs involves genetic modification by transfection with one or more genes derived from Magnetospirillum magneticum AMB-1, a magnetotactic bacterium that synthesizes single-magnetic domain crystals which are incorporated into magnetosomes. MSCs with either or mms6 and mmsF genes are followed by bio-assimilated synthesis of intracytoplasmic magnetic nanoparticles which can be imaged by magnetic resonance (MR) and which have no deleterious effects on MSC proliferation, migration, or differentiation. The stable transfection of magnetosome-associated genes in MSCs promotes assimilation of magnetic nanoparticle synthesis into mammalian cells with the potential to allow MR-based cell tracking and, through external or internal magnetic targeting approaches, enhanced site-specific retention of cells for tissue engineering.
Hormone Replacement Therapy: Would it be Possible to Replicate a Functional Ovary?
Authors: Agarwal Swati , Alzahrani Faisal A , Ahmed Asif
Published: October 2018

Background: Throughout history, menopause has been regarded as a transition in a woman’s life. With the increase in life expectancy, women now spend more than a third of their lives in menopause. During these years, women may experience intolerable symptoms both physically and mentally, leading them to seek clinical advice. It is imperative for healthcare providers to improve the quality of life by reducing bothersome menopausal symptoms and preventing disorders such as osteoporosis and atherosclerosis. The current treatment in the form of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is sometimes inadequate with several limitations and adverse effects. Objective and rationale: The current review aims to discuss the need, efficacy, and limitations of current HRT; the role of other ovarian hormones, and where we stand in comparison with ovary-in situ; and finally, explore towards the preparation of an HRT model by regeneration of ovaries tissues through stem cells which can replicate a functional ovary. Search methods: Four electronic databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science and CINAHL) were searched from database inception until 26 April 2018, using a combination of relevant controlled vocabulary terms and free-text terms related to ‘menopause’, ‘hormone replacement therapy’, ‘ovary regeneration’, ‘stem cells’ and ‘ovarian transplantation’. Outcomes: We present a synthesis of the existing data on the efficacy and limitations of HRT. HRT is far from adequate in postmenopausal women with symptoms of hormone deprivation as it fails to deliver all hormones secreted by naïve ovarian tissue. Moreover, the pharmacokinetics of synthetic hormones makes them substantially different from natural ones. Not only does the number and type of hormones given in HRT matter, but the route of delivering and their release in circulation are also imperative. The hormones are delivered either orally or topically in a non-physiological uniform manner, which brings along with it several side effects. These identify the need for a hormone delivery system which replicates, integrates and reacts as per the requirement of the female body. Wider implications: The review outlines the strengths and weaknesses of HRT and highlights the potential areas for future research. There is a tremendous potential for research in this field to understand the collective roles of the various ovarian hormones and to devise an auto-regulated hormone delivery system which replicates the normal physiology. Its clinical applications can prove to be transformative for postmenopausal women helping them to lead a healthy and productive life.
cAMP/Protein Kinase A Signaling Inhibits Dlx5 Expression via Activation of CREB and Subsequent C/EBPβ Induction in 3T3-L1 Preadipocytes
Authors: Lee Hye-Lim , Qadir Abdul S. , Park Hyun-Jung , Chung Eunkyung , Lee Yun-Sil , Woo Kyung Mi , Ryoo Hyun-Mo , Kim Hyun Jeong , Baek Jeong-Hwa
Published: October 2018

Distal-less homeobox 5 (Dlx5) is a negative regulator of adipogenesis. Dlx5 expression is decreased by adipogenic stimuli, but the mechanisms of Dlx5 downregulation by adipogenic stimuli have not yet been determined. Here, we tested the impact of cAMP/PKA (protein kinase A) signaling induced by 3-isobutyl-1 methyl xanthine (IBMX), forskolin, and 8-CPT-cAMP on the expression of Dlx5 in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. Significant downregulation of Dlx5 mRNA expression and protein production levels were observed via cAMP/PKA-dependent signaling. Forced expression of cAMP-responsive element-binding protein (CREB) and CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein β (C/EBPβ) was sufficient for downregulation of Dlx5 expression and revealed that CREB functions upstream of C/EBPβ. In addition, C/EBPβ knockdown by siRNA rescued Dlx5 expression in IBMX-treated 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. Luciferase assays using a Dlx5-luc-2935 reporter construct demonstrated the requirement of the Dlx5 promoter region, ranging from −774 to −95 bp that contains two putative C/EBPβ binding elements (site-1: −517 to −510 bp and site-2: −164 to −157 bp), in the suppression of Dlx5 transcription. Consequently, chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis confirmed the importance of site-1, but not site-2, in C/EBPβ binding and transcriptional suppression of Dlx5. In conclusion, we elucidated the underling mechanism of Dlx5 downregulation in IBMX-induced adipogenesis. IBMX activated cAMP/PKA/CREB signaling and subsequently upregulated C/EBPβ, which binds to the Dlx5 promoter to suppress Dlx5 transcription.
Receptor Regulation in Taste: Can Diet Influence How We Perceive Foods?
Authors: Shahbandi Ashkan A. , Choo Ezen , Dando Robin
Published: October 2018

Taste buds are the dedicated sensory end organs of taste, comprising a complex and evolving profile of signaling elements. The sensation and ultimate perception of taste depends on the expression of a diverse array of receptors and channels that sense their respective tastes. Receptor regulation is a recognized and well-studied phenomenon in many systems, observed in opioid addiction, insulin resistance and caffeine tolerance. Results from human sensory studies suggest that receptor sensitivity or expression level may decrease after chronic exposure to respective tastants through diet. We review data supporting the theory that taste receptors may become downregulated with exposure to a specific tastant, along with presenting data from a small pilot study, showing the impact of long-term tastant exposure on taste receptor expression in mice. Mice treated with monosodium salt monohydrate (MSG), saccharin and NaCl (typically appetitive tastes) all displayed a significant decrease in mRNA expression for respective umami, sweet and salty receptors/sensory channels. Reduced sensitivity to appetitive tastes may promote overconsumption of foods high in such stimuli.
Functional and Endoscopic Indicators for Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG) in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Patients
Authors: Conde Bebiana , Martins Natália , Rodrigues Inês , Pimenta Ana , Winck João
Published: October 2018

(1) Background: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative condition, whose bulbar involvement compromises language, swallowing, and airway protection. When oral nutrition is no longer adequate, percutaneous endoscopic gastroscopy (PEG) may be indicated. However, as exact timing is still debatable, we tried to find it. (2) Methods: A prospective cohort study was performed using fiber-optic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES), functional evaluation scales (ALS Functional Rating Scale-Revised (ALSFRS-R) and bulbar sub-score (ALSFRS-R-B)), lung function tests (like Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), Cough Peak Flow (CPF)) and anthropometric data. (3) Results: Twenty-three patients were enrolled (mean 65.4 ± 9.1 years, 60.9% males), 12 with spinal-onset. During the study period, 58 FEES were performed (1–4/patients). Even before formal the PEG indication, suggestions were given to correct the alterations found. PEG was placed in 12 patients, on average 21.8 months after diagnosis (FVC = 69.9% ± 26.7%, ALSFRS-R-B = 7.7 ± 3.7, ALSFRS-R = 28.9 ± 12.3), and being 91.7% under ventilatory support. ALSFRS-R-B, CPF, FVC, and ALSFRS-R showed significant discriminant ability for PEG placement. Sensitivity and specificity were, respectively, ALSFRS-R-B ≤ 8 (100/90.9), CPF ≤ 205 (83.3), FVC ≤ 74 (83.3/74.2), and ALSFRS-R < 29 (83.3/65.1). (4) Conclusions: FEES provide additional information beyond formal PEG indication. ALSFRS-R-B score ≤ 8 was found as a best functional and noninvasive indicator for PEG performance in ALS patients.
Deep vs. Awake Extubation and LMA Removal in Terms of Airway Complications in Pediatric Patients Undergoing Anesthesia: A Systemic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Koo Chang-Hoon , Lee Sun , Chung Seung , Ryu Jung-Hee
Published: October 2018

The purpose of this study was to compare the incidence of airway complications between extubation under deep anesthesia (deep extubation) and extubation when fully awake (awake extubation) in pediatric patients after general anesthesia. A systematic review was performed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses (PRISMA) statement standards. The review protocol was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (registration number: CRD 42018090172). Electronic databases were searched, without discrimination of publication year and language, to identify all randomized controlled trials investigating airway complications following deep or awake extubation after general anesthesia. The Cochrane tool was used to assess the risk of bias of trials. Randomized trials investigating airway complications of deep extubation compared with awake extubation after general anesthesia with an endotracheal tube and laryngeal mask airway (LMA) were sought. Overall airway complications, airway obstruction, cough, desaturation, laryngospasm and breath holding were analyzed using random-effect modelling. The odds ratio was used for these incidence variables. Seventeen randomized trials were identified, and a total of 1881 pediatric patients were enrolled. The analyses indicated deep extubation reduces the risk of overall airway complications (odds ratio (OR) 0.56, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.33–0.96, p = 0.04), cough (OR 0.30, 95% CI 0.12–0.72, p = 0.007) and desaturation (OR 0.49, 95% CI 0.25–0.95, p = 0.04) in children after general anesthesia. However, deep extubation increased the risk of airway obstruction compared with awake extubation (OR 3.38 CI 1.69–6.73, p = 0.0005). No difference was observed in the incidence of laryngospasm and breath-holding between the two groups regardless of airway device. The result of this analysis indicates that deep extubation may decrease the risk of overall airway complications including cough and desaturation but may increase airway obstruction compared with awake extubation in pediatric patients after general anesthesia. Therefore, deep extubation may be recommended in pediatric patients to minimize overall airway complications except airway obstruction and the clinicians may choose the method of extubation according to the risk of airway complications of pediatric patients.
The “Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology” Journal Club Series: Highlights on Recent Papers in Athletic Training
Authors: Lorenzetti Silvio , Bianco Antonino , Stefani Laura
Published: October 2018

We are glad to introduce the tenth Journal Club. This edition is focused on several relevant studies published in the last years in the field of athletic training, chosen by our Editorial Board members and their colleagues. We hope to stimulate your curiosity in this field and to share with you the passion for the sport seen also from the scientific point of view. The Editorial Board members wish you an inspiring lecture.
Effect of Hardening Exponent of Power-Law Hardening Elastic-Plastic Substrate on Contact Behaviors in Coated Asperity Contact
Authors: Lu Xiqun , Xu Hanzhang , Zhao Bin
Published: October 2018

The contact between a rigid flat and a coated asperity is studied using the finite element method. The substrate is assumed as the power-law hardening elastic–plastic material. The effect of the hardening exponent of the substrate (n) on the contact behaviors including contact load, area, coating thickness variation and stress in the coating, is investigated. It shows larger hardening exponent results in larger contact loads and larger maximum stresses in the coating at a given interference, and leads to smaller contact area at a specific contact load. The coating thickness becomes smaller monotonically as the interference increases for larger hardening exponents, while it recovers gradually after reaching the minimum value for the smaller n cases. This work will give some universal guidance to improve the contact performance for coatings by adjusting the hardening exponent of the substrate and by optimizing the coatings parameters.
Mesoscale Anisotropy in Porous Media Made of Clay Minerals. A Numerical Study Constrained by Experimental Data
Authors: Dabat Thomas , Mazurier Arnaud , Hubert Fabien , Tertre Emmanuel , Grégoire Brian , Dazas Baptiste , Ferrage Eric
Published: October 2018

The anisotropic properties of clay-rich porous media have significant impact on the directional dependence of fluids migration in environmental and engineering sciences. This anisotropy, linked to the preferential orientation of flat anisometric clay minerals particles, is studied here on the basis of the simulation of three-dimensional packings of non-interacting disks, using a sequential deposition algorithm under a gravitational field. Simulations show that the obtained porosities fall onto a single master curve when plotted against the anisotropy value. This finding is consistent with results from sedimentation experiments using polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) disks and subsequent extraction of particle anisotropy through X-ray microtomography. Further geometrical analyses of computed porous media highlight that both particle orientation and particle aggregation are responsible of the evolution of porosity as a function of anisotropy. Moreover, morphological analysis of the porous media using chord length measurements shows that the anisotropy of the pore and solid networks can be correlated with particle orientation. These results indicate that computed porous media, mimicking the organization of clay minerals, can be used to shed light on the anisotropic properties of fluid transfer in clay-based materials.
Chemical Stability of Ti3C2 MXene with Al in the Temperature Range 500–700 °C
Authors: Zhang Jing , Li Shibo , Hu Shujun , Zhou Yang
Published: October 2018

Ti3C2Tx MXene, a new 2D nanosheet material, is expected to be an attractive reinforcement of metal matrix composites because its surfaces are terminated with Ti and/or functional groups of –OH, –O, and –F which improve its wettability with metals. Thus, new Ti3C2Tx/Al composites with strong interfaces and novel properties are desired. To prepare such composites, the chemical stability of Ti3C2Tx with Al at high temperatures should be investigated. This work first reports on the chemical stability of Ti3C2Tx MXene with Al in the temperature range 500–700 °C. Ti3C2Tx is thermally stable with Al at temperatures below 700 °C, but it reacts with Al to form Al3Ti and TiC at temperatures above 700 °C. The chemical stability and microstructure of the Ti3C2Tx/Al samples were investigated by differential scanning calorimeter, X-ray diffraction analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy.
Characterization of Active Edible Films based on Citral Essential Oil, Alginate and Pectin
Authors: Siracusa Valentina , Romani Santina , Gigli Matteo , Mannozzi Cinzia , Cecchini Juan Pablo , Tylewicz Urszula , Lotti Nadia
Published: October 2018

Thermal, structural and physico-chemical properties of different composite edible films based on alginate and pectin with the addition of citral essential oil (citral EO) as an agent to improve barrier properties, were investigated. The obtained films were clear and transparent, with a yellow hue that increased with citral EO addition. All the films displayed good thermal stability up to 160 °C, with a slight improvement observed by increasing the amount of citral EO in the composites. Gas transmission rate (GTR) strongly depended on the polymer structure, gas type and temperature, with improvement in barrier performance for composite samples. Also, citral EO did not exert any weakening action on the tensile behavior. On the contrary, an increase of the elastic modulus and of the tensile strength was observed. Lastly, water contact angle measurements demonstrated the dependence of the film wettability on the content of citral EO.
Synthesis and Photocatalytic Performance of ZnO/Bone Char Composite
Authors: Jia Puqi , Tan Hongwei , Liu Kuiren , Gao Wei
Published: October 2018

ZnO/bone char (ZnO/BC) composites were successfully synthesized by the precipitation of a ZnO precursor on pyrolytic bone char. The effects of bone char size, mass ratio of ZnO to BC, and molar ratio of ZnO to triethylamine (TEA) on the microstructure, specific surface area, and light absorbance of ZnO/BC were studied. The photocatalytic property of ZnO/BC was evaluated by the degradation of methylene blue. Results show that with a uniform nano-ZnO particle layer distributed evenly on the bone char surface, ZnO/BC has the strongest light absorbance and can effectively degrade methylene blue. The photocatalytic performance of ZnO/BC is related to the light absorbance of the photocatalyst, as well as the amount and distribution state of the loaded ZnO. This study indicates that bovine bone waste can be used as a nano-photocatalyst carrier to prepare photocatalytic composites, which is not only a good way to clean wastewater but also an ideal solution to utilize animal bone waste.
Pseudo-Continuous Flow FTIR System for Glucose, Fructose and Sucrose Identification in Mid-IR Range
Authors: Landari Hamza , Roudjane Mourad , Messaddeq Younès , Miled Amine
Published: October 2018

In this paper, we present a new FTIR-based microfluidic system for Glucose, Fructose and Sucrose detection. The proposed microfluidic system is based on a pseudo-continuous flow coupled to a microscope-FTIR instrument. The detection and characterization of sugar samples were performed by recording their absorption spectrum in the wavelength range 700–1000 cm − 1 of the Mid-IR region. The proposed pseudo-continuous flow system is designed to improve the uniformity of the sample distribution in the analyzed area versus conventional systems. The obtained results for different sugars concentrations, show a very low measurement error of 4.35% in the absorption peak intensity, which is ten times lower than the error obtained using the conventional measurements.
Tunnel Encapsulation Technology for Durability Improvement in Stretchable Electronics Fabrication
Authors: Leng Kangmin , Guo Chuanfei , Wu Kang , Wu Zhigang
Published: October 2018

Great diversity of process technologies and materials have been developed around stretchable electronics. A subset of them, which are made up of zigzag metal foil and soft silicon polymers, show advantages of being easy to manufacture and low cost. However, most of the circuits lack durability due to stress concentration of interconnects entirely embedded in elastic polymer silicone such as polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). In our demonstration, tunnel encapsulation technology was introduced to relieve stress of these conductors when they were stretched to deform in and out of plane. It was realized by dissolving the medium of Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA), previous cured together with circuits in polymer, to form the micro-tunnel which not only guarantee the stretchability of interconnect, but also help to improve the durability. With the protection of tunnel, the serpentine could stably maintain the designed shape and electrical performance after 50% strain cycling over 20,000 times. Finally, different materials for encapsulation were employed to provide promising options for applications in portable biomedical devices which demand duplicate distortion.
Multiple Light Coupling and Routing via a Microspherical Resonator Integrated in a T-Shaped Optical Fiber Configuration System
Authors: Konstantinou Georgia , Milenko Karolina , Kosma Kyriaki , Pissadakis Stavros
Published: October 2018

We demonstrate a three-port, light guiding and routing T-shaped configuration based on the combination of whispering gallery modes (WGMs) and micro-structured optical fibers (MOFs). This system includes a single mode optical fiber taper (SOFT), a slightly tapered MOF and a BaTiO3 microsphere for efficient light coupling and routing between these two optical fibers. The BaTiO3 glass microsphere is semi-immersed into one of the hollow capillaries of the MOF taper, while the single mode optical fiber taper is placed perpendicularly to the latter and in contact with the equatorial region of the microsphere. Experimental results are presented for different excitation and reading conditions through the WGM microspherical resonator, namely, through single mode optical fiber taper or the MOF. The experimental results indicate that light coupling between the MOF and the single mode optical fiber taper is facilitated at specific wavelengths, supported by the light localization characteristics of the BaTiO3 glass microsphere, with spectral Q-factors varying between 4.5 × 103 and 6.1 × 103, depending on the port and parity excitation.
Impact of Temperature and Geothermal Gradient on Sandstone Reservoir Quality: the Baiyun Sag in the Pearl River Mouth Basin Study Case (Northern South China Sea)
Authors: Lei Chuan , Luo Jinglan , Pang Xiong , Li Chi , Pang Jiang , Ma Yongkun
Published: October 2018

Deep-water areas have become a hotspot for global hydrocarbon exploration. In the deep-water area of the Northern South China Sea, a complete set of source rocks, reservoir rocks, and caprock represents a good oil and gas exploration prospect. The Pearl River Mouth basin, an important exploration target in this area, has a wide range of geothermal gradients. However, the mechanism by which the geothermal gradient influences reservoir quality remains unclear, which severely restricts future exploration. We observed that the reduction rates in the porosity and permeability with increasing burial depth and stratum temperature are more rapid in high geothermal gradient areas. The stratum temperature affects the process of diagenesis and the reservoir quality by changing the grain compressive strength, solubility, and precipitation of minerals and clay minerals transformations. With a comparison the crustal extensional thinning histories of different geothermal gradient areas, this study elucidates the comprehensive factors controlling the decreases rates of reservoir porosity and permeability. These findings explain the different evolutions of reservoirs in areas with different geothermal gradients.
Enhancing 2-Ketogluconate Production of Pseudomonas plecoglossicida JUIM01 by Maintaining the Carbon Catabolite Repression of 2-Ketogluconate Metabolism
Authors: Sun Wenjing , Alexander Tjahjasari , Man Zaiwei , Xiao Fangfang , Cui Fengjie , Qi Xianghui
Published: October 2018

2-Ketogluconate (2KGA) is an organic acid that is important for pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and environmental applications. Pseudomonas plecoglossicida JUIM01 strain is an important industrial 2KGA producer in China. In this paper, we found that P. plecoglossicida JUIM01 could convert glucose to 2KGA extracellularly, and the formed 2KGA was subsequently consumed after glucose was exhausted during the fermentation process. Experiments of glucose and 2KGA supplementation during fermentation process revealed that, only when glucose was exhausted, the strain started to consume the product 2KGA. Then, the mechanism of this phenomenon was investigated at transcription and protein levels, and the results indicated that P. plecoglossicida JUIM01 possesses carbon catabolite repression of 2KGA metabolism by glucose. Next, increasing the supply of glucose could attenuate 2KGA consumption and enhance the 2KGA yield from glucose. Finally, fed-batch fermentation of P. plecoglossicida JUIM01 resulted in 205.67 g/L of 2KGA with a productivity of 6.86 g/L/h and yield of 0.953 g/g glucose. These results can provide references for the industrial fermentation production of 2KGA and other fermentation products.
Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Compounds Isolated from the Rhizome of Anemarrhena asphodeloides
Authors: Wang Zeyuan , Cai Jianfeng , Fu Qing , Cheng Lingping , Wu Lehao , Zhang Weiyue , Zhang Yan , Jin Yu , Zhang Chunzhi
Published: October 2018

Fifteen unreported compounds in Anemarrhena asphodeloides, iriflophene (3), hostaplantagineoside C (7), tuberoside G (8), spicatoside B (9), platycodin D (14), platycoside A (15), platycodin D2 (16), polygalacin D2 (17), platycodin D3 (18), isovitexin (20), vitexin (21), 3,4-dihydroxyallylbenzene-3-O-α-l-rhamnopyranosyl(1→6)-β-d-glucopyranoside (22), iryptophan (24), adenosine (25), α-d-Glucose monoallyl ether (26), together with eleven known compounds (1, 2, 4–6, 10–13, 19 and 23), were isolated from the rhizomes of Anemarrhena asphodeloides. The chemical structures of these compounds were characterized using HRMS and NMR. The anti-inflammatory activities of the compounds were evaluated by investigating their ability to inhibit LPS-induced NO production in N9 microglial cells. Timosaponin BIII (TBIII) and trans-hinokiresinol (t-HL) exhibited significant inhibitory effects on the NO production in a dose-dependent manner with IC50 values of 11.91 and 39.08 μM, respectively. Immunoblotting demonstrated that TBIII and t-HL suppressed NO production by inhibiting the expressions of iNOS in LPS-stimulated N9 microglial cells. Further results revealed that pretreatment of N9 microglial cells with TBIII and t-HL attenuated the LPS-induced expression tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin-6 (IL-6) at mRNAs and protein levels. Moreover, the activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling pathways were inhibited by TBIII and t-HL, respectively. Our findings indicate that the therapeutic implication of TBIII and t-HL for neurogenerative disease associated with neuroinflammation.