bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatiotemporal Distribution of Nonseismic Landslides during the Last 22 Years in Shaanxi Province, China
Authors: Qiu Haijun , Cui Yifei , Yang Dongdong , Pei Yanqian , Hu Sheng , Ma Shuyue , Hao Junqing , Liu Zijing
Published: November 2019

The spatiotemporal distribution of landslides provides valuable insight for the understanding of disastrous processes and landslide risk assessment. In this work, we compiled a catalog of landslides from 1996 to 2017 based on existing records, yearbooks, archives, and fieldwork in Shaanxi Province, China. The statistical analyses demonstrated that the cumulative frequency distribution of the annual landslide number was empirically described by a power-law regression. Most landslides occurred from July to October. The relationship between landslide time interval and their cumulative frequency could be fitted using an exponential regression. The cumulative frequency of the landslide number could be approximated using the power-law function. Moreover, many landslides caused fatalities, and the number of fatalities was related to the number of landslides each month. Moreover, the cumulative frequency was significantly correlated with the number of fatalities and exhibited a power-law relationship. Furthermore, obvious differences were observed in the type and density of landslides between the Loess Plateau and the Qinba Mountains. Most landslides were close to stream channels and faults, and were concentrated in cropland at elevations from 600–900 m and on slope gradients from 30–40°. In addition, the landslide frequency increased as the annual rainfall levels increased over a large spatial scale, and the monthly distribution of landslides presented a significant association with the precipitation level. This study provides a powerful method for understanding the spatiotemporal distribution of landslides via a rare landslide catalog, which is important for engineering design and planning and risk management.
Riding the Wave: The SINE-Specific V Highly-Conserved Domain Spread into Mammalian Genomes Exploiting the Replication Burst of the MER6 DNA Transposon
Authors: Luchetti Andrea , Lomiento Mariana , Mantovani Barbara
Published: November 2019

Transposable elements are widely distributed within genomes where they may significantly impact their evolution and cell functions. Short interspersed elements (SINEs) are non-autonomous, fast-evolving elements, but some of them carry a highly conserved domain (HCD), whose sequence remained substantially unchanged throughout the metazoan evolution. SINEs carrying the HCD called V are absent in amniote genomes, but V-like sequences were found within the miniature inverted-repeat transposable element (MITE) MER6 in Homo sapiens. In the present work, the genomic distribution and evolution of MER6 are investigated, in order to reconstruct the origin of human V domain and to envisage its possible functional role. The analysis of 85 tetrapod genomes revealed that MER6 and its variant MER6A are found in primates, while only the MER6A variant was found in bats and eulipotyphlans. These MITEs appeared no longer active, in line with literature data on mammalian DNA transposons. Moreover, they appeared to have originated from a Mariner element found in turtles and from a V-SINE from bony fishes. MER6 insertions were found within genes and conserved in mRNAs: in line with previous hypothesis on functional role of HCDs, the MER6 V domain may be important for cell function also in mammals.
The Burden of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Screening Issue and Future Perspectives
Authors: Pennisi Grazia , Celsa Ciro , Giammanco Antonina , Spatola Federica , Petta Salvatore
Published: November 2019

In recent decades, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become the most common liver disease in the Western world, and the occurrence of its complications, such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), has rapidly increased. Obesity and diabetes are considered not only the main triggers for the development of the disease, but also two independent risk factors for HCC. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (such as PNPLA3, TM6SF2 and MBOAT7) are related to the susceptibility to the development of HCC and its progression. Therefore, an appropriate follow-up of these patients is needed for the early diagnosis and treatment of HCC. To date, international guidelines recommend the use of ultrasonography with or without alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in patients with advanced fibrosis. Furthermore, the use of non-invasive tools could represent a strategy to implement surveillance performance. In this review, we analyzed the main risk factors of NAFLD-related HCC, the validated screening methods and the future perspectives.
Pathogenic Effects of Impaired Retrieval between the Endoplasmic Reticulum and Golgi Complex
Authors: Kokubun Hiroshi , Jin Hisayo , Aoe Tomohiko
Published: November 2019

Cellular activities, such as growth and secretion, are dependent on correct protein folding and intracellular protein transport. Injury, like ischemia, malnutrition, and invasion of toxic substances, affect the folding environment in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). The ER senses this information, following which cells adapt their response to varied situations through the unfolded protein response. Activation of the KDEL receptor, resulting from the secretion from the ER of chaperones containing the KDEL sequence, plays an important role in this adaptation. The KDEL receptor was initially shown to be necessary for the retention of KDEL sequence-containing proteins in the ER. However, it has become clear that the activated KDEL receptor also regulates bidirectional transport between the ER and the Golgi complex, as well as from the Golgi to the secretory pathway. In addition, it has been suggested that the signal for KDEL receptor activation may also affect several other cellular activities. In this review, we discuss KDEL receptor-mediated bidirectional transport and signaling and describe disease models and human diseases related to KDEL receptor dysfunction.
The Role of the Lung’s Microbiome in the Pathogenesis and Progression of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Spagnolo Paolo , Molyneaux Philip L. , Bernardinello Nicol , Cocconcelli Elisabetta , Biondini Davide , Fracasso Federico , Tiné Mariaenrica , Saetta Marina , Maher Toby M. , Balestro Elisabetta
Published: November 2019

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic, progressive, fibrosing interstitial lung disease that commonly affects older adults and is associated with the histopathological and/or radiological patterns of usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP). Despite significant advances in our understanding of disease pathobiology and natural history, what causes IPF remains unknown. A potential role for infection in the disease’s pathogenesis and progression or as a trigger of acute exacerbation has long been postulated, but initial studies based on traditional culture methods have yielded inconsistent results. The recent application to IPF of culture-independent techniques for microbiological analysis has revealed previously unappreciated alterations of the lung microbiome, as well as an increased bacterial burden in the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) of IPF patients, although correlation does not necessarily entail causation. In addition, the lung microbiome remains only partially characterized and further research should investigate organisms other than bacteria and viruses, including fungi. The clarification of the role of the microbiome in the pathogenesis and progression of IPF may potentially allow its manipulation, providing an opportunity for targeted therapeutic intervention.
RgsA Attenuates the PKA Signaling, Stress Response, and Virulence in the Human Opportunistic Pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus
Authors: Lwin Hnin Phyu , Choi Yong-Ho , Lee Min-Woo , Yu Jae-Hyuk , Shin Kwang-Soo
Published: November 2019

The regulator of G-protein signaling (RGS) proteins play an important role in upstream control of heterotrimeric G-protein signaling pathways. In the genome of the human opportunistic pathogenic fungus Aspergillus fumigatus, six RGS protein-encoding genes are present. To characterize the rgsA gene predicted to encode a protein with an RGS domain, we generated an rgsA null mutant and observed the phenotypes of the mutant. The deletion (Δ) of rgsA resulted in increased radial growth and enhanced asexual sporulation in both solid and liquid culture conditions. Accordingly, transcripts levels of the key asexual developmental regulators abaA, brlA, and wetA are elevated in the ΔrgsA mutant. Moreover, ΔrgsA resulted in elevated spore germination rates in the absence of a carbon source. The activity of cAMP-dependent protein kinase A (PKA) and mRNA levels of genes encoding PKA signaling elements are elevated by ΔrgsA. In addition, mRNA levels of genes associated with stress-response signaling increased with the lack of rgsA, and the ΔrgsA spores showed enhanced tolerance against oxidative stressors. Comparative transcriptomic analyses revealed that the ΔrgsA mutant showed higher mRNA levels of gliotoxin (GT) biosynthetic genes. Accordingly, the rgsA null mutant exhibited increased production of GT and elevated virulence in the mouse. Conversely, the majority of genes encoding glucan degrading enzymes were down-regulated by ΔrgsA, and endoglucanase activities were reduced. In summary, RgsA plays multiple roles, governing growth, development, stress responses, virulence, and external polymer degradation—likely by attenuating PKA signaling.
The Bile Acid-Phospholipid Conjugate Ursodeoxycholyl-Lysophosphatidylethanolamide (UDCA-LPE) Disintegrates the Lipid Backbone of Raft Plasma Membrane Domains by the Removal of the Membrane Phospholipase A2
Authors: Stremmel Wolfgang , Staffer Simone , Fricker Gert , Weiskirchen Ralf
Published: November 2019

The bile acid-phospholipid conjugate ursodeoxycholyl-lysophosphatidylethanolamide (UDCA-LPE) was shown to have anti-inflammatory, antisteatotic, and antifibrotic properties, rendering it as a drug targeting non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). On a molecular level, it disrupted the heterotetrameric fatty acid uptake complex localized in detergent-resistant membrane domains of the plasma membrane (DRM-PM). However, its mode of action was unclear. Methodologically, UDCA-LPE was incubated with the liver tumor cell line HepG2 as well as their isolated DRM-PM and all other cellular membranes (non-DRM). The membrane cholesterol and phospholipids were quantified as well as the DRM-PM protein composition by Western blotting. The results show a loss of DRM-PM by UDCA-LPE (50 µM) with a 63.13 ± 7.14% reduction of phospholipids and an 81.94 ± 8.30% reduction of cholesterol in relation to mg total protein. The ratio of phospholipids to cholesterol changed from 2:1 to 4:1, resembling those of non-DRM fractions. Among the members of the fatty acid uptake complex, the calcium-independent membrane phospholipase A2 (iPLA2β) abandoned DRM-PM most rapidly. As a consequence, the other members of this transport system disappeared as well as the DRM-PM anchored fibrosis regulating proteins integrin β-1 and lysophospholipid receptor 1 (LPAR-1). It is concluded that UDCA-LPE executes its action by iPLA2β removal from DRM-PM and consequent dissolution of the raft lipid platform.
Microcalcifications Drive Breast Cancer Occurrence and Development by Macrophage-Mediated Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition
Authors: Scimeca Manuel , Bonfiglio Rita , Menichini Erika , Albonici Loredana , Urbano Nicoletta , De Caro Maria , Mauriello Alessandro , Schillaci Orazio , Gambacurta Alessandra , Bonanno Elena
Published: November 2019

Background: This study aims to investigate: (a) the putative association between the presence of microcalcifications and the expression of both epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and bone biomarkers, (b) the role of microcalcifications in the breast osteoblast-like cells (BOLCs) formation, and (c) the association between microcalcification composition and breast cancer progression. Methods: We collected 174 biopsies on which we performed immunohistochemical and ultrastructural analysis. In vitro experiments were performed to demonstrate the relationship among microcalcification, BOLCs development, and breast cancer occurrence. Ex vivo investigations demonstrated the significant increase of breast osteoblast-like cells in breast lesions with microcalcifications with respect to those without microcalcifications. Results: In vitro data displayed that in the presence of calcium oxalate and activated monocytes, breast cancer cells undergo epithelial to mesenchymal transition. Also, in this condition, cells acquired an osteoblast phenotype, thus producing hydroxyapatite. To further confirm in vitro data, we studied 15 benign lesions with microcalcification from patients that developed a malignant condition in the same breast quadrant. Immunohistochemical analysis showed macrophages’ polarization in benign lesions with calcium oxalate. Conclusions: Altogether, our data shed new light about the role of microcalcifications in breast cancer occurrence and progression.
Role of MicroRNAs in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Goh Suh Yee , Chao Yin Xia , Dheen Shaikali Thameem , Tan Eng-King , Tay Samuel Sam-Wah
Published: November 2019

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a disabling neurodegenerative disease that manifests with resting tremor, bradykinesia, rigidity and postural instability. Since the discovery of microRNAs (miRNAs) in 1993, miRNAs have been shown to be important biological molecules involved in diverse processes to maintain normal cellular functions. Over the past decade, many studies have reported dysregulation of miRNA expressions in PD. Here, we identified 15 miRNAs from 34 reported screening studies that demonstrated dysregulation in the brain and/or neuronal models, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and blood. Specific miRNAs-of-interest that have been implicated in PD pathogenesis include miR-30, miR-29, let-7, miR-485 and miR-26. However, there are several challenges and limitations in drawing definitive conclusions due to the small sample size in clinical studies, varied laboratory techniques and methodologies and their incomplete penetrance of the blood–brain barrier. Developing an optimal delivery system and unravelling druggable targets of miRNAs in both experimental and human models and clinical validation of the results may pave way for novel therapeutics in PD.
A Review on UAV-Based Applications for Precision Agriculture
Authors: Tsouros Dimosthenis C. , Bibi Stamatia , Sarigiannidis Panagiotis G.
Published: November 2019

Emerging technologies such as Internet of Things (IoT) can provide significant potential in Smart Farming and Precision Agriculture applications, enabling the acquisition of real-time environmental data. IoT devices such as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) can be exploited in a variety of applications related to crops management, by capturing high spatial and temporal resolution images. These technologies are expected to revolutionize agriculture, enabling decision-making in days instead of weeks, promising significant reduction in cost and increase in the yield. Such decisions enable the effective application of farm inputs, supporting the four pillars of precision agriculture, i.e., apply the right practice, at the right place, at the right time and with the right quantity. However, the actual proliferation and exploitation of UAVs in Smart Farming has not been as robust as expected mainly due to the challenges confronted when selecting and deploying the relevant technologies, including the data acquisition and image processing methods. The main problem is that still there is no standardized workflow for the use of UAVs in such applications, as it is a relatively new area. In this article, we review the most recent applications of UAVs for Precision Agriculture. We discuss the most common applications, the types of UAVs exploited and then we focus on the data acquisition methods and technologies, appointing the benefits and drawbacks of each one. We also point out the most popular processing methods of aerial imagery and discuss the outcomes of each method and the potential applications of each one in the farming operations.
The Influence of New Surveillance Data on Predictive Species Distribution Modeling of Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus in the United States
Authors: Tiffin Hannah S. , Peper Steven T. , Wilson-Fallon Alexander N. , Haydett Katelyn M. , Cao Guofeng , Presley Steven M.
Published: November 2019

The recent emergence or reemergence of various vector-borne diseases makes the knowledge of disease vectors’ presence and distribution of paramount concern for protecting national human and animal health. While several studies have modeled Aedes aegypti or Aedes albopictus distributions in the past five years, studies at a large scale can miss the complexities that contribute to a species’ distribution. Many localities in the United States have lacked or had sporadic surveillance conducted for these two species. To address these gaps in the current knowledge of Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus distributions in the United States, surveillance was focused on areas in Texas at the margins of their known ranges and in localities that had little or no surveillance conducted in the past. This information was used with a global database of occurrence records to create a predictive model of these two species’ distributions in the United States. Additionally, the surveillance data from Texas was used to determine the influence of new data from the margins of a species’ known range on predicted species’ suitability maps. This information is critical in determining where to focus resources for the future and continued surveillance for these two species of medical concern.
Bevacizumab Induces Upregulation of Keratin 3 and VEGFA in Human Limbal Epithelial Cells in Vitro
Authors: Notara Maria , Lentzsch Anna , Clahsen Thomas , Behboudifard Sara , Braun Gabriele , Cursiefen Claus
Published: November 2019

Topical application of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) inhibitors including Bevacizumab is used for antiangiogenic therapy at the ocular surface. While clinical studies have suggested that this approach is well-tolerated, the effect of the drug on limbal epithelial stem cells has not been studied. In this study, the effect of Bevacizumab on phenotype and functionality of putative limbal epithelial stem cells (SC) was investigated. The effect of Bevacizumab on human limbal epithelial cells was assessed in terms of metabolic activity and scratch wound closure. The different treatment groups featured no difference in proliferation and colony forming efficiency (CFE) of limbal epithelial cells or their putative SC marker expression. A significant delay in scratch closure of all the Bevacizumab-treated groups was detected at 4 h. RNA and protein quantification indicated a dose-responsive increase of keratin 3. VEGFA RNA expression also increased while VEGFC and D as well as VEGFR1, 2 and 3 were unchanged. This study highlights previously unknown effects of Bevacizumab on cultured putative limbal epithelial SC: a dose-related increase of keratin 3, an increase in VEGFA as well as a delay in scratch wound closure. These in vitro data should be considered when using Bevacizumab in the context of limbal epithelial SC transplantation.
Secretory Leukocyte Protease Inhibitor (SLPI)—A Novel Predictive Biomarker of Acute Kidney Injury after Cardiac Surgery: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Averdunk Luisa , Fitzner Christina , Levkovich Tatjana , Leaf David E. , Sobotta Michael , Vieten Jil , Ochi Akinobu , Moeckel Gilbert , Marx Gernot , Stoppe Christian
Published: November 2019

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is one of the most frequent complications after cardiac surgery and is associated with poor outcomes. Biomarkers of AKI are crucial for the early diagnosis of this condition. Secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI) is an alarm anti-protease that has been implicated in the pathogenesis of AKI but has not yet been studied as a diagnostic biomarker of AKI. Using two independent cohorts (development cohort (DC), n = 60; validation cohort (VC), n = 148), we investigated the performance of SLPI as a diagnostic marker of AKI after cardiac surgery. Serum and urinary levels of SLPI were quantified by ELISA. SLPI was significantly elevated in AKI patients compared with non-AKI patients (6 h, DC: 102.1 vs. 64.9 ng/mL, p < 0.001). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of serum SLPI 6 h after surgery was 0.87 ((0.76–0.97); DC). The addition of SLPI to standard clinical predictors significantly improved the predictive accuracy of AKI (24 h, VC: odds ratio (OR) = 3.91 (1.44–12.13)). In a subgroup, the increase in serum SLPI was evident before AKI was diagnosed on the basis of serum creatinine or urine output (24 h, VC: OR = 4.89 (1.54–19.92)). In this study, SLPI was identified as a novel candidate biomarker for the early diagnosis of AKI after cardiac surgery.
Exacerbation of Hangover Symptomology Significantly Corresponds with Heavy and Chronic Alcohol Drinking: A Pilot Study
Authors: Vatsalya Vatsalya , Hassan Hamza Z. , Kong Maiying , Stangl Bethany L. , Schwandt Melanie L. , Schmidt-Teron Veronica Y. , Verster Joris C. , Ramchandani Vijay A. , McClain Craig J.
Published: November 2019

Alcohol hangover is a combination of mental, sympathetic, and physical symptoms experienced the day after a single period of heavy drinking, starting when blood alcohol concentration approaches zero. How individual measures/domains of hangover symptomology might differ with moderate to heavy alcohol consumption and how these symptoms correlate with the drinking markers is unclear. We investigated the amount/patterns of drinking and hangover symptomology by the categories of alcohol drinking. We studied males and females in three groups: 12 heavy drinkers (HD; >15 drinks/week, 34–63 years old (y.o.)); 17 moderate drinkers (MD; 5–14 drinks/week, 21–30 y.o.); and 12 healthy controls (social/light drinkers, SD; <5 drinks/week, 25–54 y.o.). Demographics, drinking measures (Timeline followback past 90 days (TLFB90), Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT)), and alcohol hangover scale (AHS) were analyzed. Average drinks/day was 5.1-times greater in HD compared to MD. Average AHS score showed moderate incapacity, and individual measures and domains of the AHS were significantly elevated in HD compared to MD. Symptoms of three domains of the AHS (mental, gastrointestinal, and sympathetic) showed domain-specific significant increase in HD. A domain-specific relation was present between AUDIT and specific measures of AHS scores in HD, specifically with the dependence symptoms. Exacerbation in hangover symptomology could be a marker of more severe alcohol use disorder.
Microfluidic Rapid Fabrication of Tunable Polyvinyl Alcohol Microspheres for Adsorption Applications
Authors: Wang Jianmei , Wang Xueying , Zhu Pingan , Chen Chengmin , Wang Jianchun , Li Yan , Wang Liqiu
Published: November 2019

Monodisperse polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) microspheres have been widely used for targeted drug delivery, embolization, and templates. However, the fast and facile fabrication of PVA microspheres with uniform size and internal structure and good sphericity remains a challenge. In this study, the PVA microspheres with uniformity in the size, shape, and internal structure were rapidly fabricated, using single-emulsion droplet templates by an on-chip approach. First, we designed a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microfluidic chip integrated with three functional units, used for the droplet generation, mixing of reagents, and pre-curing of PVA microspheres, respectively. Then, we precisely controlled the generation of PVA aqueous droplets, mixing of reagents, and the gelation rate for the production of high-quality microspheres by adjusting the pH value, flow rate, and the channel structure. The prepared PVA microspheres are characterized with good sphericity, uniform internal structure, and narrow size distribution. The microspheres have good adsorption capacity and recyclability for small-molecule drugs, as demonstrated by the adsorption and desorption of methylene blue (MB). The adsorption behavior is well described by the pseudo-second-order model, and intraparticle diffusion is as fast as the external film diffusion.
Improvement on Fully Filled Through Silicon Vias by Optimized Sputtering and Electroplating Conditions
Authors: Zhao Fei
Published: November 2019

The high reliability of electroplating through silicon vias (TSVs) is an attractive hotspot in the application of high-density integrated circuit packaging. In this paper, improvements for fully filled TSVs by optimizing sputtering and electroplating conditions were introduced. Particular attention was paid to the samples with different seed layer structures. These samples were fabricated by different sputtering and treatment approaches, and accompanied with various electroplating profile adjustments. The images were observed and characterized by X-ray equipment and a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results show that optimized sputtering and electroplating conditions can help improve the quality of TSVs, which could be interpreted as the interface effect of the TSV structure.
Effect of Tempering Conditions on Secondary Hardening of Carbides and Retained Austenite in Spray-Formed M42 High-Speed Steel
Authors: Liu Bowen , Qin Tian , Xu Wei , Jia Chengchang , Wu Qiuchi , Chen Mingying , Liu Zhe
Published: November 2019

In this study, the effect of tempering conditions on microstructure, grain size, and carbide phase compositions of spray-formed high-speed steel after quenching at 1180 °C was studied. The influence of carbide phase, size of carbides, and retained austenite content on secondary hardening of the steel was analyzed by field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC); the hardness, microhardness of carbide, and bending strength were tested. The results show that M3C, M6C, M7C3, and MC carbides may precipitate at different tempering temperatures and the transformation of the retained austenite can be controlled by tempering. The phase composition of carbides, microstructure, and retained austenite content strongly influences the performance characteristics of M42 high-speed steel after tempering. In contrast, the secondary carbides produced by tempering thrice at 540 °C are mainly M6C carbides rich in W and Mo elements, and the content of retained austenite is effectively reduced. At this stage, the Rockwell hardness reaches 67.2 HRC, bending strength reaches 3115 MPa, and the properties and microstructure are optimal.
Development and Biocompatibility of Collagen-Based Composites Enriched with Nanoparticles of Strontium Containing Mesoporous Glass
Authors: Montalbano Giorgia , Borciani Giorgia , Pontremoli Carlotta , Ciapetti Gabriela , Mattioli-Belmonte Monica , Fiorilli Sonia , Vitale-Brovarone Chiara
Published: November 2019

In the last years bone tissue engineering has been increasingly indicated as a valid solution to meet the challenging requirements for a healthy bone regeneration in case of bone loss or fracture. In such a context, bioactive glasses have already proved their great potential in promoting the regeneration of new bone tissue due to their high bioactivity. In addition, their composition and structure enable us to incorporate and subsequently release therapeutic ions such as strontium, enhancing the osteogenic properties of the material. The incorporation of these inorganic systems in polymeric matrices enables the formulation of composite systems suitable for the design of bone scaffolds or delivery platforms. Among the natural polymers, type I collagen represents the main organic phase of bone and thus is a good candidate to develop biomimetic bioactive systems for bone tissue regeneration. However, alongside the specific composition and structure, the key factor in the design of new biosystems is creating a suitable interaction with cells and the host tissue. In this scenario, the presented study aimed at combining nano-sized mesoporous bioactive glasses produced by means of a sol–gel route with type I collagen in order to develop a bioactive hybrid formulation suitable for bone tissue engineering applications. The designed system has been fully characterized in terms of physico-chemical and morphological analyses and the ability to release Sr2+ ions has been studied observing a more sustained profile in presence of the collagenous matrix. With the aim to improve the mechanical and thermal stability of the resulting hybrid system, a chemical crosslinking approach using 4-star poly (ethylene glycol) ether tetrasuccinimidyl glutarate (4-StarPEG) has been explored. The biocompatibility of both non-crosslinked and 4-StarPEG crosslinked systems was evaluated by in vitro tests with human osteoblast-like MG-63 cells. Collected results confirmed the high biocompatibility of composites, showing a good viability and adhesion of cells when cultured onto the biomaterial samples.
Tissue Response to a Porous Collagen Matrix Used for Soft Tissue Augmentation
Authors: Caballé-Serrano Jordi , Zhang Sophia , Ferrantino Luca , Simion Massimo , Chappuis Vivianne , Bosshardt Dieter D.
Published: November 2019

A short inflammatory phase and fast ingrowth of blood vessels and mesenchymal cells are essential for tissue integration of a biomaterial. Macrophages play a key role in this process. We investigated invasion of macrophages, blood vessels, and proliferating cells into a highly porous and volume-stable collagen matrix (VCMX) used for soft tissue augmentation around teeth and dental implants. The biomaterial was implanted in submucosal pouches in the canine maxilla, and the tissue response was analyzed at six different time points. Immunohistochemistry was done for proliferating cells (PCNA), macrophages (MAC387), multinucleated giant cells (CD86), and blood vessels (TGM2). Blood rapidly filled the VCMX pores. During the first week, MAC387+ cells populated the VCMX pores, blood vessels and PCNA+ cells invaded the VCMX, and CD86+ scattered cells were observed. At 15 days, MAC387+ cells were scanty, blood vessels had completely invaded the VCMX, the number of proliferating cells peaked, and fibroblasts appeared. At 30 days, MAC387+ were absent, the numbers of proliferating and CD86+ cells had declined, while blood vessel and fibroblast numbers were high. At 90 days, residual VCMX was well-integrated in soft connective tissue. In conclusion, the VCMX elicited a short inflammatory phase followed by rapid tissue integration.
New Risk Methodology Based on Control Charts to Assess Occupational Risks in Manufacturing Processes
Authors: Folch-Calvo Martin , Brocal Francisco , Sebastián Miguel A.
Published: November 2019

The accident rate in the EU-28 region of the European Union showed a value of 2 fatal accidents per 100,000 people in 2019 that mainly affect construction (24%), manufacturing (19%) and logistics (19%). To manage situations that affect occupational risk at work, a review of existing tools is first carried out taking into account three prevention, simultaneity and immediacy characteristics. As a result, a new dynamic methodology called Statistical Risk Control (SRC) based on Bayesian inference, control charts and analysis of the hidden Markov chain is presented. The objective is to detect a situation outside the limits early enough to allow corrective actions to reduce the risk before an accident occurs. A case is developed in a medium-density fiberboard (MDF) manufacturing plant, in which five inference models based on Poisson, exponential and Weibull distributions and risk parameters following gamma and normal distributions have been tested. The results show that the methodology offers all three characteristics, together with a better understanding of the evolution of the operators in the plant and the safety barriers in the scenario under study.
Effects of Different Light Sources on Neural Activity of the Paraventricular Nucleus in the Hypothalamus
Authors: Yokoyama Michio , Chang Hyukki , Anzai Hiroshi , Kato Morimasa
Published: November 2019

Background and Objectives: Physical function is influenced by light irradiation, and interest in the influence of light irradiation on health is high. Light signals are transmitted from the retina to the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) via the retinal hypothalamic tract as non-image vision. Additionally, the SCN projects a nerve to the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) which acts as a stress center. This study examined the influences of three different light sources on neural activity in the PVN region using two different color temperatures. Materials and Methods: Experiments were conducted using twenty-eight Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) mice (10 week old males). Three light sources were used: (1) organic light-emitting diode (OLED) lighting, (2) LED lighting, and (3) fluorescent lighting. We examined the effects of light irradiation from the three light sources using two different color temperatures (2800 K and 4000 K). Perfusion was done 60 min after light irradiation, and then the brain was removed from the mouse for an immunohistochemistry analysis. c-Fos was immunohistochemically visualized as a marker of neural activity in the PVN region. Results: The number of c-Fos-positive cells was found to be significantly lower under OLED lighting and LED lighting conditions than under fluorescent lighting at a color temperature of 2800 K, and significantly lower under OLED lighting than LED lighting conditions at a color temperature of 4000 K. Conclusions: This study reveals that different light sources and color temperatures alter the neural activity of the PVN region. These results suggest that differences in the light source or color temperature may affect the stress response.
Chemical Absorption of CO2 Enhanced by Nanoparticles Using a Membrane Contactor: Modeling and Simulation
Authors: Ghasem Nayef
Published: November 2019

In the present work, membrane resistance was estimated and analyzed, and the results showed that total membrane resistance increased sharply when membrane pores were wetted. For further study, a two-dimensional (2D) mathematical model was developed to predict the chemical absorption of CO2 in aqueous methyldiethanolamine (MDEA)-based carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in a hollow fiber membrane (HFM) contactor. The membrane was divided into wet and dry regions, and equations were developed and solved using finite element method in COSMOL. The results revealed that the existence of solid nanoparticles enhanced CO2 removal rate. The variables with more significant influence were liquid flow rate and concentration of nanoparticles. Furthermore, there was a good match between experimental and modeling results, with the modeling estimates almost coinciding with experimental data. Solvent enhanced by solid nanoparticles significantly improved the separation performance of the membrane contactor. There was around 20% increase in CO2 removal when 0.5 wt% CNT was added to 5 wt% aqueous MDEA.
Evaluation of Support Structure Removability for Additively Manufactured Ti6Al4V Overhangs via Electron Beam Melting
Authors: Ameen Wadea , Khan Mohammed Muneer , Al-Ahmari Abdulrahman
Published: November 2019

The addition of support structures is essential for the successful fabrication of overhang structures through additive manufacturing (AM). The support structures protect the overhang portion from distortions. They are fabricated with the functional parts and are removed later after the fabrication of the AM part. While structures bearing insufficient support result in defective overhangs, structures with excessive support result in higher material consumption, time and higher post-processing costs. The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of design and process parameters of support structures on support removability during the electron beam melting (EBM)-based additive manufacturing of the Ti6Al4V overhang part. The support design parameters include tooth parameters, no support offset, fragmentation parameters and perforation parameters. The EBM process parameters consist of beam current, beam scan speed and beam focus offset. The results show that both support design and process parameters have a significant effect on support removability. In addition, with the appropriate selection of design and process parameters, it is possible to significantly reduce the support removal time and protect the surface quality of the part.
Production of a New Cyclic Depsipeptide by the Culture Broth of Staphylococcus sp. Isolated from Corallina officinalis L.
Authors: Abdelhameed Reda F. A. , Elhady Sameh S. , Noor Ahmad O. , Almasri Diena M. , Bagalagel Alaa A. , Maatooq Galal T. , Khedr Amgad I. M. , Yamada Koji
Published: November 2019

A new cyclic depsipeptide (1) has been isolated from culture broth of Staphylococcus sp. (No. P-100826-4-6) derived from Corallina officinalis L., together with the known compounds indol-3-carboxylic acid (2), 1,5-dideoxy-3-C-methyl arabinitol (3), thymine (4), uracil (5), cyclo (L-pro-L-omet) (6) and macrolactin B (7). The structure of (1) was established to be cyclo (2α, 3-diaminopropoinc acid-L-Asn-3-β-hydroxy-5-methyl-tetradecanoic acid-L-Leu1-L-Asp-L-Val-L-Leu2-L-Leu3) by extensive spectroscopic techniques including 1H NMR, 13C NMR, 1H‒1H COSY, HMBC, HSQC, NOESY, and HRFABMS. The antimicrobial activities of compounds 1–7 were evaluated. Compounds 1–5, and 7 showed moderate antimicrobial activity while compound 6 exhibited a potent antimicrobial and antifungal activities.
Urea Cycle Related Amino Acids Measured in Dried Bloodspots Enable Long-Term In Vivo Monitoring and Therapeutic Adjustment
Authors: Baruteau Julien , Khalil Youssef , Grunewald Stephanie , Zancolli Marta , Chakrapani Anupam , Cleary Maureen , Davison James , Footitt Emma , Waddington Simon N. , Gissen Paul , Mills Philippa
Published: November 2019

Background: Dried bloodspots are easy to collect and to transport to assess various metabolites, such as amino acids. Dried bloodspots are routinely used for diagnosis and monitoring of some inherited metabolic diseases. Methods: Measurement of amino acids from dried blood spots by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Results: We describe a novel rapid method to measure underivatised urea cycle related amino acids. Application of this method enabled accurate monitoring of these amino acids to assess the efficacy of therapies in argininosuccinate lyase deficient mice and monitoring of these metabolites in patients with urea cycle defects. Conclusion: Measuring urea cycle related amino acids in urea cycle defects from dried blood spots is a reliable tool in animal research and will be of benefit in the clinic, facilitating optimisation of protein-restricted diet and preventing amino acid deprivation.
A Silicon Nanowire Array Biosensor Fabricated by Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor Technique for Highly Sensitive and Selective Detection of Serum Carcinoembryonic Antigen
Authors: Yang Xun , Fan Yun , Wu Zhenhua , Liu Chaoran
Published: November 2019

In this paper, we present a highly sensitive and selective detection of serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) based on silicon nanowire (SiNW) array device. With the help of traditional microfabrication technology, low-cost and highly controllable SiNW array devices were fabricated. After a series of surface modification processes, SiNW array biosensors show rapid and reliable response to CEA; the detection limit of serum CEA was 10 fg/mL, the current signal is linear with the logarithm of serum CEA concentration in the range of 10 fg/mL to 100 pg/mL. In this work, SiNW array biosensors can obtain strong signal and high signal-to-noise ratio; these advantages can reduce the production cost of the SiNW-based system and promote the application of SiNWs in the field of tumor marker detection.
A Liquid-Metal-Based Dielectrophoretic Microdroplet Generator
Authors: Wang Ronghang , Zhang Lunjia , Gao Meng , Wang Qifu , Deng Zhongshan , Gui Lin
Published: November 2019

This paper proposes a novel microdroplet generator based on the dielectrophoretic (DEP) force. Unlike the conventional continuous microfluidic droplet generator, this droplet generator is more like “invisible electric scissors”. It can cut the droplet off from the fluid matrix and modify droplets’ length precisely by controlling the electrodes’ length and position. These electrodes are made of liquid metal by injection. By applying a certain voltage on the liquid-metal electrodes, the electrodes generate an uneven electric field inside the main microfluidic channel. Then, the uneven electric field generates DEP force inside the fluid. The DEP force shears off part from the main matrix, in order to generate droplets. To reveal the mechanism, numerical simulations were performed to analyze the DEP force. A detailed experimental parametric study was also performed. Unlike the traditional droplet generators, the main separating force of this work is DEP force only, which can produce one droplet at a time in a more precise way.
Bifidobacterium bifidum: A Key Member of the Early Human Gut Microbiota
Authors: Turroni Francesca , Duranti Sabrina , Milani Christian , Lugli Gabriele Andrea , van Sinderen Douwe , Ventura Marco
Published: November 2019

Bifidobacteria typically represent the most abundant bacteria of the human gut microbiota in healthy breast-fed infants. Members of the Bifidobacterium bifidum species constitute one of the dominant taxa amongst these bifidobacterial communities and have been shown to display notable physiological and genetic features encompassing adhesion to epithelia as well as metabolism of host-derived glycans. In the current review, we discuss current knowledge concerning particular biological characteristics of the B. bifidum species that support its specific adaptation to the human gut and their implications in terms of supporting host health.
The Occurrence States of Rare Earth Elements Bearing Phosphorite Ores and Rare Earth Enrichment Through the Selective Reverse Flotation
Authors: Chen Wenxiang , Zhou Feng , Wang Hongquan , Zhou Sen , Yan Chunjie
Published: November 2019

The reserve of rare-earth element-bearing phosphorite ores in Guizhou province in western China is huge. Increased demand for the different products manufactured from rare-earth elements has resulted in an extreme need for reasonable and comprehensive extraction of rare-earth elements. An improved understanding of rare-earth element occurrence states in single minerals of ores is important for their further processing. In this paper, rare-earth element contents were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma (ICP), and the occurrence states in single minerals were further investigated through SEM-EDS and focused ion beam-scanning electron microscope (FIB-SEM) methods. The results indicate that rare-earth element contents of apatite are far more than that of dolomite. No independent mineral of rare-earth elements exists for the studied sample. Rare-earth elements are present in the form of ions in the lattices of apatite. Based on the analysis of occurrence states and properties in single minerals, the distribution of rare-earth elements in the flotation process was investigated by reverse flotation technology. It shows that rare-earth elements are mainly concentrated in apatite concentrate. Under the optimized conditions, the P2O5 grade increases from 11.36% in the raw ore to 26.04% in the concentrate, and the recovery is 81.92%, while the total rare-earth oxide grade increases from 0.09% to 0.21% with the recovery of 80.01%, which is similar to P2O5 recovery. This study presents the feasibility of extracting rare-earth elements from rare-earth element-bearing phosphorite ores through the flotation of apatite.
A Simple, Efficient, and Eco-Friendly Method for the Preparation of 3-Substituted-2,3-dihydroquinazolin-4(1H)-one Derivatives
Authors: Almarhoon Zainab , Dahlous Kholood A. , Abd Alhameed Rakia , Ghabbour Hazem A. , El-Faham Ayman
Published: November 2019

A simple, cost-effective method under environmentally benign conditions is a very important concept for the preparation of 2,3-dihydroquinazolin-4(1H)-one derivatives. The present work describes an efficient and eco-friendly protocol for the synthesis of 2-amino-N-(2-substituted-ethyl)benzamide and 3-substituted-2,3-dihydroquinazolin-4(1H)-one derivatives. The novel feature of this protocol is the use of 2-methyl tetrahydrofuran (2-MeTHF) as an eco-friendly alternative solvent to tetrahydrofuran (THF) in the first step. In the second step, methanol in the presence of potassium carbonate as a catalyst was used under conventional heating or microwave irradiation, which provided an eco-friendly method to afford the target products in excellent yields and purities. NMR (1H and 13C), elemental analysis, and LC-MS confirmed the structures of all compounds. X-ray crystallography further confirmed the structure of the intermediate 2-amino-N-(2-substituted-ethyl)benzamide 3a. The molecular structure of 3a was monoclinic crystal, with P21/c, a = 13.6879 (11) Å, b = 10.2118 (9) Å, c = 9.7884 (9) Å, β = 105.068 (7)°, V = 1321.2 (2) Å3, and Z = 4.
Chemical Discrimination of Astragalus mongholicus and Astragalus membranaceus Based on Metabolomics Using UHPLC-ESI-Q-TOF-MS/MS Approach
Authors: Wang Yumei , Liu Lei , Ma Yukun , Guo Lina , Sun Yu , Liu Qi , Liu Jicheng
Published: November 2019

Astragalus mongholicus (MG) and Astragalus membranaceus (MJ), both generally known as Huangqi in China, are two perennial herbals widely used in variety diseases. However, there were still some differences in the chemical ingredients between MG and MJ. In this paper, metabolomics combined with the ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization/quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-ESI-Q-TOF-MS/MS) was employed to contrastively analyze the chemical constituents between MG and MJ. As a result, principal component analysis showed that MG and MJ were separated clearly. A total of 53 chemical markers were successfully identified for the discrimination of MG and MJ. Of them, the contents of 36 components including Astragaloside I~III, Astragaloside IV, Agroastragaloside I, etc. in MJ were significantly higher than those in MG. On the contrary, the contents of 17 other components including coumaric acid, formononetin, sophoricoside, etc. in MG were obviously higher than those in MJ. The results showed that the distinctive constituents in MG and MJ were remarkable, and MJ may own stronger pharmacological activities than MG. In a word, MG and MJ may be treated as two different herbs. This paper demonstrated that metabolomics was a vitally credible technology to rapidly screen the characteristic chemical composition of traditional Chinese medicine.