bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mutual Regulation of RNA Silencing and the IFN Response as an Antiviral Defense System in Mammalian Cells
Authors: Takahashi Tomoko , Ui-Tei Kumiko
Published: February 2020

RNA silencing is a posttranscriptional gene silencing mechanism directed by endogenous small non-coding RNAs called microRNAs (miRNAs). By contrast, the type-I interferon (IFN) response is an innate immune response induced by exogenous RNAs, such as viral RNAs. Endogenous and exogenous RNAs have typical structural features and are recognized accurately by specific RNA-binding proteins in each pathway. In mammalian cells, both RNA silencing and the IFN response are induced by double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs) in the cytoplasm, but have long been considered two independent pathways. However, recent reports have shed light on crosstalk between the two pathways, which are mutually regulated by protein–protein interactions triggered by viral infection. This review provides brief overviews of RNA silencing and the IFN response and an outline of the molecular mechanism of their crosstalk and its biological implications. Crosstalk between RNA silencing and the IFN response may reveal a novel antiviral defense system that is regulated by miRNAs in mammalian cells.
EMT Transcription Factors Are Involved in the Altered Cell Adhesion under Simulated Microgravity Effect or Overloading by Regulation of E-cadherin
Authors: Shi Shuliang , Li Qiao , Cao Qiuying , Diao Yan , Zhang Yao , Yue Lei , Wei Lijun
Published: February 2020

In order to study the effect of stress changes on cell adhesion, HUVEC, and MCF-7 cells were treated with simulated microgravity effect (SMG) and overloading (OL). Methods: Rotating Wall Vessel (2D-RWVS) bioreactor was used to create different culture conditions. In addition, the alteration of cell adhesion states, adhesion proteins, and relating factors of adhesion molecules under these two conditions were detected using cell adhesion assay, immunofluorescence, western blot, and qRT-PCR technology. Results: The results showed that the adhesion of cells decreased under SMG, while increased under OL. The expressions of integrin β1, paxillin, and E-cadherin under SMG condition were down-regulated as compared to that of the control group showing a time-dependent pattern of the decreasing. However, under OL condition, the expressions of adhesion proteins were up-regulated as compared to that of the control group, with a time-dependent pattern of increasing. EMT transcription factors Snail, twist, and ZEB1 were up-regulated under SMG while down-regulated under OL. Conclusion: Collectively our results indicated that cells could respond to stress changes to regulate the expressions of adhesion proteins and adapt their adhesion state to the altered mechanical environment. The altered cell adhesion in response to the mechanical stress may involve the changed expression of EMT-inducing factors, Snail, Twist, and ZEB1under the SMG/OL conditions.
Molecular Evidences for the Interactions of Auxin, Gibberellin, and Cytokinin in Bent Peduncle Phenomenon in Rose (Rosa sp.)
Authors: Jing Weikun , Zhang Shuai , Fan Youwei , Deng Yinglong , Wang Chengpeng , Lu Jingyun , Sun Xiaoming , Ma Nan , Shahid Muhammad Owais , Li Yonghong , Zhou Xiaofeng
Published: February 2020

In roses (Rosa sp.), peduncle morphology is an important ornamental feature. The common physiological abnormality known as the bent peduncle phenomenon (BPP) seriously decreases the quality of rose flowers and thus the commercial value. Because the molecular mechanisms underlying this condition are poorly understood, we analysed the transcriptional profiles and cellular structures of bent rose peduncles. Numerous differentially expressed genes involved in the auxin, cytokinin, and gibberellin signaling pathways were shown to be associated with bent peduncle. Paraffin sections showed that the cell number on the upper sides of bent peduncles was increased, while the cells on the lower sides were larger than those in normal peduncles. We also investigated the large, deformed sepals that usually accompany BPP and found increased expression level of some auxin-responsive genes and decreased expression level of genes that are involved in cytokinin and gibberellin synthesis in these sepals. Furthermore, removal of the deformed sepals partially relieved BPP. In summary, our findings suggest that auxin, cytokinin, and gibberellin all influence the development of BPP by regulating cell division and expansion. To effectively reduce BPP in roses, more efforts need to be devoted to the molecular regulation of gibberellins and cytokinins in addition to that of auxin.
Early Modulation of Circulating MicroRNAs Levels in HER2-Positive Breast Cancer Patients Treated with Trastuzumab-Based Neoadjuvant Therapy
Authors: Di Cosimo Serena , Appierto Valentina , Pizzamiglio Sara , Silvestri Marco , Baselga José , Piccart Martine , Huober Jens , Izquierdo Miguel , de la Pena Lorena , Hilbers Florentine S. , de Azambuja Evandro , Untch Michael , Pusztai Lajos , Pritchard Kathleen , Nuciforo Paolo , Vincent-Salomon Anne , Symmans Fraser , Apolone Giovanni , de Braud Filippo G. , Iorio Marilena V. , Verderio Paolo , Daidone Maria Grazia
Published: February 2020

Circulating microRNA (ct-miRNAs) are able to identify patients with differential response to HER2-targeted therapy. However, their dynamics are largely unknown. We assessed 752 miRNAs from 52 NeoALTTO patients with plasma pairs prior and two weeks after trastuzumab. Increased levels of ct-miR-148a-3p and ct-miR-374a-5p were significantly associated with pathological complete response (pCR) (p = 0.008 and 0.048, respectively). At a threshold ≥ the upper limit of the 95%CI of the mean difference, pCR resulted 45% (95%CI 24%–68%), and 44% (95%CI 22%–69%) for ct-miR-148a-3p and ct-miR-374a-5p, respectively. Notably, ct-miR-148a-3p retained its predictive value (OR 3.42, 95%CI 1.23–9.46, p = 0.018) in bivariate analysis along with estrogen receptor status. Combined information from ct-miR-148a-3p and ct-miR140-5p, which we previously reported to identify trastuzumab-responsive patients, resulted in greater predictive capability over each other, with pCR of 54% (95%CI 25%–81%) and 0% (95%CI 0%–31%) in ct-miR-148a/ct-miR-140-5p high/present and low/absent, respectively. GO and KEGG analyses showed common enriched terms between the targets of these ct-miRNAs, including cell metabolism regulation, AMPK and MAPK signaling, and HCC progression. In conclusion, early modulated ct-miR-148-3p may inform on the functional processes underlying treatment response, integrate the information from already available predictive biomarkers, and identify patients likely to respond to single agent trastuzumab-based neoadjuvant therapy.
Experimental Investigation and Analytical Modeling of Chloride Diffusivity of Fly Ash Concrete
Authors: Zhang Jian , Zhou Xin-Zhu , Zheng Jian-Jun , Ye Hai-Long , Yang Jin
Published: February 2020

Owing to its importance in the assessment of reinforced concrete structures, it is essential to determine the chloride diffusivity of fly ash concrete. This paper presents an investigation into the diffusion characteristics of chloride ions in fly ash concrete. Through experiment, the relationship between chloride diffusivity and curing age up to 1800 days is measured and the effects of curing age, water/binder ratio, aggregate volume fraction, and fly ash content (i.e., percentage of total cementitious material by mass) on chloride diffusivity are evaluated. It is found that the chloride diffusivity decreases with the increase of curing age, aggregate volume fraction, and fly ash content, but increases with the increase of water/binder ratio. In analytical modeling, an equivalent aggregate model is constructed and the equivalent interfacial transition zone (ITZ) thickness is derived analytically. With the equivalent aggregate model, three-phase fly ash concrete reduces to a two-phase composite material. By extending the Maxwell method, the chloride diffusivity of fly ash concrete is formulated. Finally, the validity of the analytical method is verified by experimental results.
Load Capacity and Displacement of Recycled Concrete and Self-Insulation Block Masonry Wall
Authors: Zhang Huizhi , Liu Jifeng , Yue Yang , Cui Xiuqin , Lian Yuezong
Published: February 2020

In order to discuss the load capacity and displacement of masonry constructed with recycled concrete and self-insulation blocks, one type of 10.6 MPa compressive strength block and three kinds of mortar with M15, M10, and M5 compressive strengths are selected. The constitutive model and corresponding parameters selection of different materials in the ABAQUS numerical simulation are analyzed, and the numerical simulation analysis and experimental tests of the load capacity and displacement of masonry constructed with mortars of different strengths are carried out. The results show that masonry compression failure is controlled by the mortar or block that has the lower compressive strength. The displacement of masonry increases with the mortar compressive strength increase, and the higher mortar compressive strength is beneficial for improving the load capacity and displacement of masonry. Reasonable selection of the constitutive model and parameters will help to obtain reasonable results for the ABAQUS numerical simulation. Construction quality and loading method will affect the load capacity and displacement of the masonry. The above conclusion can provide reference for the engineering application of recycled concrete and self-insulation blocks.
Quantum Memristors in Frequency-Entangled Optical Fields
Authors: Gonzalez-Raya Tasio , Lukens Joseph M. , Céleri Lucas C. , Sanz Mikel
Published: February 2020

A quantum memristor is a passive resistive circuit element with memory, engineered in a given quantum platform. It can be represented by a quantum system coupled to a dissipative environment, in which a system–bath coupling is mediated through a weak measurement scheme and classical feedback on the system. In quantum photonics, such a device can be designed from a beam splitter with tunable reflectivity, which is modified depending on the results of measurements in one of the outgoing beams. Here, we show that a similar implementation can be achieved with frequency-entangled optical fields and a frequency mixer that, working similarly to a beam splitter, produces state superpositions. We show that the characteristic hysteretic behavior of memristors can be reproduced when analyzing the response of the system with respect to the control, for different experimentally attainable states. Since memory effects in memristors can be exploited for classical and neuromorphic computation, the results presented in this work could be a building block for constructing quantum neural networks in quantum photonics, when scaling up.
Mesoporous Acidic Catalysts Synthesis from Dual-Stage and Rising Co-Current Gasification Char: Application for FAME Production from Waste Cooking Oil
Authors: Ahmad Junaid , Rashid Umer , Patuzzi Francesco , Alamoodi Nahla , Choong Thomas Shean Yaw , Soltani Soroush , Ngamcharussrivichai Chawalit , Nehdi Imededdine Arbi , Baratieri Marco
Published: February 2020

The main purpose of this work is to investigate the application options of the char produced from gasification plants. Two promising mesoporous acidic catalysts were synthesized using char as a support material. Two char samples were collected from either a dual-stage or a rising co-current biomass gasification plant. The catalysts produced from both gasification char samples were characterized for their physiochemical and morphological properties using N2 physorption measurement, total acidity evaluation through TPD-NH3, functional groups analysis by FT-IR, and morphology determination via FESEM. Results revealed that the dual-stage char-derived mesoporous catalyst (DSC-SO4) with higher specific surface area and acidic properties provided higher catalytic activity for fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) production from waste cooking oil (WCO) than the mesoporous catalyst obtained from char produced by rising co-current gasification (RCC-SO4). Furthermore, the effects of methanol/oil molar ratio (3:1–15:1), catalyst concentration (1–5 wt.% of oil), and reaction time (30–150 min) were studied while keeping the transesterification temperature constant at 65 °C. The optimal reaction conditions for the transesterification of WCO were 4 wt.% catalyst concentration, 12:1 methanol/oil molar ratio, and 90 min operating time. The optimized reaction conditions resulted in FAME conversions of 97% and 83% over DSC-SO4 and RCC-SO4 catalysts, respectively. The char-based catalysts show excellent reusability, since they could be reused six times without any modification.
DECM: A Discrete Element for Multiscale Modeling of Composite Materials Using the Cell Method
Authors: Ferretti Elena
Published: February 2020

This paper presents a new numerical method for multiscale modeling of composite materials. The new numerical model, called DECM, consists of a DEM (Discrete Element Method) approach of the Cell Method (CM) and combines the main features of both the DEM and the CM. In particular, it offers the same degree of detail as the CM, on the microscale, and manages the discrete elements individually such as the DEM—allowing finite displacements and rotations—on the macroscale. Moreover, the DECM is able to activate crack propagation until complete detachment and automatically recognizes new contacts. Unlike other DEM approaches for modeling failure mechanisms in continuous media, the DECM does not require prior knowledge of the failure position. Furthermore, the DECM solves the problems in the space domain directly. Therefore, it does not require any dynamic relaxation techniques to obtain the static solution. For the sake of example, the paper shows the results offered by the DECM for axial and shear loading of a composite two-dimensional domain with periodic round inclusions. The paper also offers some insights into how the inclusions modify the stress field in composite continua.
Microstructure and Thermal Stability of Cu/TixSiyN/AlSiN Solar Selective Absorbing Coating
Authors: Yu Hongwen , Zhang Yanli , Zhang Qian , Pang Wei , Yan Hui , Li Guangyuan
Published: February 2020

An oxygen-free solar selective absorbing coating of Cu/TixSiyN/AlSiN was prepared on a Cu buffered stainless steel substrate by magnetron sputtering. This coating was prepared using a single target for each layer. A spectrophotometer, Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffractometer and atomic force microscopy were used to characterize the optical properties, crystalline structure, morphology and composition of these coatings. The coating of Cu/TixSiyN/AlSiN has good optical properties (average absorption of 0.941 and emittance of 0.058) and excellent thermal stability. The performance criterion (PC) is 0.0365, when the solar selective absorbing coating is heated in air at 200 °C for 1200 h.
Effect of Hydrothermal Aging Treatment on Decomposition of NO by Cu-ZSM-5 and Modified Mechanism of Doping Ce against This Influence
Authors: Yang Xiao , Wang Xiaofei , Qiao Xiaolei , Jin Yan , Fan Baoguo
Published: February 2020

Cu-ZSM-5 and Ce-doped Cu-Ce-ZSM-5 samples were prepared by liquid-phase ion exchange method. The two catalysts were subjected to hydrothermal aging treatment in the simulated flue gas of a coal-fired power station at an ageing temperature of 650–850 °C. The denitration experiment found that the activity of the aged Cu-ZSM-5 was 19.6% to 41% lower than that of the fresh Cu-ZSM-5 at the optimal decomposition temperature of NO at 550 °C, while the aged Cu-Ce-ZSM-5 had only a 14.8% to 31.5% reduction in activity than the fresh Cu-Ce-ZSM-5. The samples were characterized by XRD, BET, H2-TPR, XPS, NO-TPD, etc. The results showed that hydrothermal aging treatment leads to the dealumination of the ZSM-5 framework and reduces the specific surface area and pore volume of the micropore in the sample. It also exacerbates the isolated Cu2+, and the active center {Cu2+-O2−-Cu2+}2+ dimers migrate towards the sample surface and form inactive CuO. Doping with Ce can promote the dispersion of Cu(OH)+, which was the precursor of {Cu2+-O2−-Cu2+}2+. Ce3+ can preferentially occupy the less active bridged hydroxyl exchange sites, so that copper ions occupy the more active aluminum hydroxyl sites, thereby inhibiting the migration of active centers.
Effect of Olive-Pine Bottom Ash on Properties of Geopolymers Based on Metakaolin
Authors: Bonet-Martínez Eduardo , García-Cobo Pedro , Pérez-Villarejo Luis , Castro Eulogio , Eliche-Quesada Dolores
Published: February 2020

In this research, the feasibility of using bottom ashes generated by the combustion of biomass (olive pruning and pine pruning) as a source of aluminosilicates (OPBA) has been studied, replacing the metakaolin precursor (MK) in different proportions (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100 wt.% substitution) for the synthesis of geopolymers. As alkaline activator an 8 M NaOH solution and a Na2SiO3 have been used. The geopolymers were cured 24 h in a climatic chamber at 60 °C in a water-saturated atmosphere, subsequently demoulded and cured at room temperature for 28 days. The results indicated that the incorporation of OPBA waste, which have 19.7 wt.% of Ca, modifies the characteristics of the products formed after alkaline activation. In general terms, the incorporation of increasing amounts of calcium-rich ashes results in geopolymers with higher bulk density. The compressive strength increases with the addition of up to 50 wt.% of OPBA with respect to the control geopolymers, contributing the composition of the residue to the acquisition of better mechanical behavior. The results indicate the potential use of these OPBA waste as raw material to produce unconventional cements with 28-day curing strengths greater than 10 MPa, and thermal conductivities less than 0.35 W/mK.
Nanoscale Estimation of Coating Thickness on Substrates via Standardless BSE Detector Calibration
Authors: Skoupy Radim , Fort Tomas , Krzyzanek Vladislav
Published: February 2020

The thickness of electron transparent samples can be measured in an electron microscope using several imaging techniques like electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) or quantitative scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). We extrapolate this method for using a back-scattered electron (BSE) detector in the scanning electron microscope (SEM). This brings the opportunity to measure the thickness not just of the electron transparent samples on TEM mesh grids, but, in addition, also the thickness of thin films on substrates. Nevertheless, the geometry of the microscope and the BSE detector poses a problem with precise calibration of the detector. We present a simple method which can be used for such a type of detector calibration that allows absolute (standardless) measurement of thickness, together with a proof of the method on test samples.
Antibacterial Effect of Zinc Oxide-Based Nanomaterials on Environmental Biodeteriogens Affecting Historical Buildings
Authors: Schifano Emily , Cavallini Domenico , De Bellis Giovanni , Bracciale Maria Paola , Felici Anna Candida , Santarelli Maria Laura , Sarto Maria Sabrina , Uccelletti Daniela
Published: February 2020

The colonization of microorganisms and their subsequent interaction with stone substrates under different environmental conditions encourage deterioration of materials by multiple mechanisms resulting in changes in the original color, appearance and durability. One of the emerging alternatives to remedy biodeterioration is nanotechnology, thanks to nanoparticle properties such as small size, no-toxicity, high photo-reactivity, and low impact on the environment. This study highlighted the effects of ZnO-based nanomaterials of two bacteria genera isolated from the Temple of Concordia (Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples in Sicily, Italy) that are involved in biodeterioration processes. The antimicrobial activities of ZnO-nanorods (Zn-NRs) and graphene nanoplatelets decorated with Zn-NRs (ZNGs) were evaluated against the Gram positive Arthrobacter aurescens and two isolates of the Gram negative Achromobacter spanius. ZNGs demonstrated high antibacterial and antibiofilm activities on several substrates such as stones with different porosity. In the case of ZNGs, a marked time- and dose-dependent bactericidal effect was highlighted against all bacterial species. Therefore, these nanomaterials represent a promising tool for developing biocompatible materials that can be exploited for the conservation of cultural heritage. These nanostructures can be successfully applied without releasing toxic compounds, thus spreading their usability.
Recent Advances in TiO2-Based Photocatalysts for Reduction of CO2 to Fuels
Authors: Nguyen Thang Phan , Nguyen Dang Le Tri , Nguyen Van-Huy , Le Thu-Ha , Vo Dai-Viet N. , Trinh Quang Thang , Bae Sa-Rang , Chae Sang Youn , Kim Soo Young , Le Quyet Van
Published: February 2020

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) has attracted increasing attention as a candidate for the photocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) to convert anthropogenic CO2 gas into fuels combined with storage of intermittent and renewable solar energy in forms of chemical bonds for closing the carbon cycle. However, pristine TiO2 possesses a large band gap (3.2 eV), fast recombination of electrons and holes, and low selectivity for the photoreduction of CO2. Recently, considerable progress has been made in the improvement of the performance of TiO2 photocatalysts for CO2 reduction. In this review, we first discuss the fundamentals of and challenges in CO2 photoreduction on TiO2-based catalysts. Next, the recently emerging progress and advances in TiO2 nanostructured and hybrid materials for overcoming the mentioned obstacles to achieve high light-harvesting capability, improved adsorption and activation of CO2, excellent photocatalytic activity, the ability to impede the recombination of electrons-holes pairs, and efficient suppression of hydrogen evolution are discussed. In addition, approaches and strategies for improvements in TiO2-based photocatalysts and their working mechanisms are thoroughly summarized and analyzed. Lastly, the current challenges and prospects of CO2 photocatalytic reactions on TiO2-based catalysts are also presented.
Synthesis of Diatomite-Based Mesoporous Wool-Ball-Like Microspheres and Their Application for Toluene Total Oxidation Reaction
Authors: Le Quoc-Chon , Nguyen Chinh Chien , Le Thi Thanh Nhi , Lefèvre Thierry , Dinh Minh Tuan Nguyen , Hong Sung Hyun , Kim Soo Young , Le Quyet Van
Published: February 2020

Diatomite (DE) has attracted considerable attention owing to its abundance, low cost, and potential for a wide variety of applications. This work reports the development of mesoporous wool-ball-like (WBL) microspheres from natural DE through a simple hydrothermal treatment. We discovered that the presence of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide is a prerequisite for generating monodispersed WBL microspheres. The mechanism for the transformation of pristine DE into mesoporous microspheres through dissolution–recrystallization was clearly investigated. Interestingly, the microspheres exhibited a specific surface area 25–60 times larger than that of the pristine DE. The application of WBL microsphere DE as an effective support for metallic catalysts in the toluene total oxidation reaction was demonstrated.
Self-Assembled Monolayers of Copper Sulfide Nanoparticles on Glass as Antibacterial Coatings
Authors: Gargioni Chiara , Borzenkov Mykola , D’Alfonso Laura , Sperandeo Paola , Polissi Alessandra , Cucca Lucia , Dacarro Giacomo , Grisoli Pietro , Pallavicini Piersandro , D’Agostino Agnese , Taglietti Angelo
Published: February 2020

We developed an easy and reproducible synthetic method to graft a monolayer of copper sulfide nanoparticles (CuS NP) on glass and exploited their particular antibacterial features. Samples were fully characterized showing a good stability, a neat photo-thermal effect when irradiated in the Near InfraRed (NIR) region (in the so called “biological window”), and the ability to release controlled quantities of copper in water. The desired antibacterial activity is thus based on two different mechanisms: (i) slow and sustained copper release from CuS NP-glass samples, (ii) local temperature increase caused by a photo-thermal effect under NIR laser irradiation of CuS NP–glass samples. This behavior allows promising in vivo applications to be foreseen, ensuring a “static” antibacterial protection tailored to fight bacterial adhesion in the critical timescale of possible infection and biofilm formation. This can be reinforced, when needed, by a photo-thermal action switchable on demand by an NIR light.
Dietary Platycodon grandiflorus Attenuates Hepatic Insulin Resistance and Oxidative Stress in High-Fat-Diet Induced Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Ke Weixin , Wang Pan , Wang Xuehua , Zhou Xiaolu , Hu Xiaosong , Chen Fang
Published: February 2020

The root of Platycodon grandiflorus (PG), with hepatoprotective and anti-oxidation effects, has a long history of being used as food and herbal medicine in Asia. However, the mechanism of PG against non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is still not clear. The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanism of PG suppressing the development of NAFLD induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) in mice. Male C57BL/6J mice were fed with either a standard chow diet or a HFD, either supplemented with or without PG, for 16 weeks. Serum lipids, liver steatosis, oxidative stress and insulin sensitivity were determined. Expressions or activities of hepatic enzymes in the related pathways were analyzed to investigate the mechanisms. PG significantly reduced HFD-induced hepatic injury and hyperlipidemia, as well as hepatic steatosis via regulating phosphorylation of acetyl-CoA carboxylase (p-ACC) and expression of fatty acid synthase (FAS). In addition, PG ameliorated oxidative stress by restoring glutathione (GSH) content and antioxidant activities, and improved insulin sensitivity by regulating the PI3K/Akt/GSK3β signaling pathway. Our data showed that dietary PG have profound effects on hepatic insulin sensitivity and oxidative stress, two key factors in the pathogenesis of NAFLD, demonstrating the potential of PG as a therapeutic strategy for NAFLD.
Effect of Calanus Oil Supplementation and 16 Week Exercise Program on Selected Fitness Parameters in Older Women
Authors: Daďová Klára , Petr Miroslav , Šteffl Michal , Sontáková Lenka , Chlumský Martin , Matouš Miloš , Štich Vladimír , Štěpán Marek , Šiklová Michaela
Published: February 2020

We investigated changes in functional fitness after an exercise program in combination with Calanus oil supplementation, a novel source of bioactive lipids rich in wax esters with omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (n-3 PUFA). Fifty-five healthy sedentary women aged 65–80 (mean age 70.9 ± 3.9 years, BMI 27.24 ± 3.9 kg m−2, VO2peak 19.46 ± 3.7 ml kg−1 min−1) were enrolled in the study. The participants were divided into two groups: exercise training plus Calanus Oil supplementation (n = 28) or exercise plus placebo (sunflower oil) supplementation (n = 27). The exercise intervention program was completed by 53 participants and contained functional circuit training (twice a week, 45 min plus 15 min of stretching and balance training) and Nordic walking (once a week, 60 min) for 16 weeks. Senior fitness test, exercise stress test on bicycle ergometer, hand-grip, and body composition were evaluated before and after the program. Our results show that functional fitness and body composition improved following the interventional exercise program, but for most of the parameters there was no synergic effect of supplementing n-3 PUFA-rich Calanus oil. In comparison to the placebo group, the group with Calanus supplementation experienced significantly higher improvement of functional strength of lower body which was evaluated by the chair stand test. Supplementation with Calanus may have a synergic effect with exercise on functional strength of the lower body in the elderly.
Snapshots of Urban and Rural Food Environments: EPOCH-Based Mapping in a High-, Middle-, and Low-Income Country from a Non-Communicable Disease Perspective
Authors: Spires Mark , Berggreen-Clausen Aravinda , Kasujja Francis Xavier , Delobelle Peter , Puoane Thandi , Sanders David , Daivadanam Meena
Published: February 2020

A changing food environment is implicated as a primary contributor to the increasing levels of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This study aimed to generate snapshots of selected external food environments to inform intervention strategies for NCD prevention in three countries: Uganda (low income), South Africa (middle income) and Sweden (high income), with one matched pair of urban–rural sites per country. Fifty formal and informal food retail outlets were assessed, and descriptive and comparative statistical analyses were performed. We found that formal food retail outlets in these countries had both positive and negative traits, as they were the main source of basic food items but also made unhealthy food items readily available. The Ugandan setting had predominantly informal outlets, while the Swedish setting had primarily formal outlets and South Africa had both, which fits broadly into the traditional (Uganda), mixed (South Africa) and modern (Sweden) conceptualized food systems. The promotion of unhealthy food products was high in all settings. Uganda had the highest in-community advertising, followed by South Africa and Sweden with the lowest, perhaps related to differences in regulation and implementation. The findings speak to the need to address contextual differences in NCD-related health interventions by incorporating strategies that address the food environment, and for a critical look at regulations that tackle key environment-related factors of food on a larger scale.
Food Consumed by High School Students during the School Day
Authors: Garrido-Fernández Almudena , García-Padilla Francisca María , Sánchez-Ramos José Luis , Gómez-Salgado Juan , Travé-González Gabriel H. , Sosa-Cordobés Elena
Published: February 2020

The development of healthy eating habits in adolescence is perceived as an effective strategy to avoid health problems in adulthood. The involvement of educational centres’ governing boards, as well as the Educational State and Regional Administrations’, may be necessary to create healthy food environments during the school day. The objective of this study is to identify the relationship between students’ eating habits during the school day and sociodemographic, family and physical activity variables, as well as the existence of a school cafeteria. For this, a cross-sectional study in a stratified random sample of 8068 students of Public Secondary Education High Schools of Andalusia (Spain) has been carried out. The results show that students who are 14 years old or older are more likely to skip breakfast at home (odds ratio (OR): 1.81, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.55–2.12) than those under this age. Students whose mothers do not have a university education are more likely to consume incomplete breakfasts (OR: 1.83, 95% CI: 1.26–2.65). Snacks with sweets (OR: 1.93, 95% CI: 1.67–2.23), candy in general (OR: 2.75, 95% CI: 2.38–3.19), and bagged crisps (OR: 3.06, 95% CI: 2.65–3.54) were more likely to be consumed in schools with a cafeteria. The factors that significantly influence the eating habits of secondary students in Andalusia include age, sex, parental level of education, physical activity and the existence of a cafeteria.
5-Caffeoylquinic Acid Ameliorates Cognitive Decline and Reduces Aβ Deposition by Modulating Aβ Clearance Pathways in APP/PS2 Transgenic Mice
Authors: Ishida Keiko , Misawa Koichi , Nishimura Hitomi , Hirata Tomoya , Yamamoto Masaki , Ota Noriyasu
Published: February 2020

The accumulation of amyloid β (Aβ) in the brain is a major pathological feature of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In our previous study, we demonstrated that coffee polyphenols (CPP) prevent cognitive dysfunction and Aβ deposition in the brain of an APP/PS2 transgenic mouse AD model. The underlying mechanisms, however, remain to be elucidated. Here, we investigated the effects of the chronic administration of 5-caffeoylquinic acid (5-CQA), the most abundant component of CPP, on cognitive dysfunction in APP/PS2 mice to identify the role of CPP in Aβ elimination. Relative to the untreated controls, the mice fed a 5-CQA-supplemented diet showed significant improvements in their cognitive function assessed by Y-maze and novel object recognition tests. Histochemical analysis revealed that 5-CQA substantially reduced Aβ plaque formation and neuronal loss in the hippocampi. Moreover, 5-CQA upregulated the gene encoding low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1, an Aβ efflux receptor, and normalized the perivascular localization of aquaporin 4, which facilitates Aβ clearance along the paravascular pathway. These results suggest that 5-CQA reduces Aβ deposition in the brain by modulating the Aβ clearance pathways and ameliorating cognitive decline and neuronal loss in APP/PS2 mice. Thus, 5-CQA may be effective in preventing cognitive dysfunction in AD.
What Serum Sodium Concentration Is Suggestive for Underhydration in Geriatric Patients?
Authors: Wojszel Zyta Beata
Published: February 2020

Dehydration is a concern among aging populations and can result in hospitalization and other adverse outcomes. There is a need to establish simple measures that can help in detecting low-intake dehydration (underhydration) in geriatric patients. The predictive performance of sodium, urea, glucose, and potassium to discriminate between patients with and without underhydration was evaluated using receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis of data collected during the cross-sectional study of patients admitted to the geriatric ward. A total of 358 participants, for whom osmolarity could be calculated with the Khajuria and Krahn equation, were recruited to the study. Impending underhydration (osmolarity > 295 mmol/L) was diagnosed in 58.4% of cases. Serum sodium, urea, fasting glucose, and potassium (individual components of the equation) were significantly higher in dehydrated participants. The largest ROC area of 0.88 was obtained for sodium, and the value 140 mMol/L was found as the best cut-off value, with the highest sensitivity (0.80; 95% CI: 0.74–0.86) and specificity (0.83; 95% CI: 0.75–0.88) for prediction of underhydration. The ROC areas of urea, glucose, and potassium were significantly lower. Serum sodium equal to 140 mmol/L or higher appeared to be suggestive of impending underhydration in geriatric patients. This could be considered as the first-step screening procedure for detecting underhydration in older adults in general practice, especially when limited resources restrict the possibility of more in-depth biochemical assessments.
A Review on Sources and Pharmacological Aspects of Sakuranetin
Authors: Stompor Monika
Published: February 2020

Sakuranetin belongs to the group of methoxylated flavanones. It is widely distributed in Polyomnia fruticosa and rice, where it acts as a phytoalexin. Other natural sources of this compound are, among others, grass trees, shrubs, flowering plants, cheery, and some herbal drugs, where it has been found in the form of glycosides (mainly sakuranin). Sakuranetin has antiproliferative activity against human cell lines typical for B16BL6 melanoma, esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and colon cancer (Colo 320). Moreover, sakuranetin shows antiviral activity towards human rhinovirus 3 and influenza B virus and was reported to have antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiinflammatory, antiparasitic, antimutagenic, and antiallergic properties. The aim of this review is to present the current status of knowledge of pro-health properties of sakuranetin.
Ready-Made Oral Nutritional Supplements Improve Nutritional Outcomes and Reduce Health Care Use—A Randomised Trial in Older Malnourished People in Primary Care
Authors: Smith Trevor R. , Cawood Abbie L. , Walters Emily R. , Guildford Natasha , Stratton Rebecca J.
Published: February 2020

Large trials assessing oral nutritional supplements (ONS) and dietary advice (DA) in primary care are lacking. This study examined effects of ONS + DA versus DA on intake, weight, QoL, healthcare use and satisfaction in malnourished free-living older people. Three hundred and eight people (71.5 ± 10.7y) were randomised to receive ONS + DA (n154) or DA (n154) for 12 weeks. At baseline, 4, 8, 12 weeks, intake, weight, QoL, healthcare use and satisfaction were measured. ONS + DA group (mean daily intake ONS 480 kcal; 21 g protein; 80% compliance) had significantly greater total energy and protein intakes (+401 kcal/d, p < 0.001; +15 g/d, p < 0.001) and weight gain (+0.8 kg; p < 0.001) compared to DA. QoL improved in both groups over time with a significant improvement in index with ONS + DA (p = 0.009). Significantly more participants found ONS + DA made a difference for them (p = 0.011), but no differences were found between groups using Euroqol. Compared to DA, healthcare use reduced with ONS + DA, (HCP visits by 34%, emergency admissions 50%, LOS 62%). Acceptability of both interventions was high (ONS 96%, DA 95%), with significantly more participants satisfied with ONS (89%) than DA (73%) (p = 0.009). This trial in primary care indicates that ONS are acceptable, make a difference to patients, significantly improve intake and weight, and reduce health care use with potential savings.
Safety and Neuroprotective Efficacy of Palm Oil and Tocotrienol-Rich Fraction from Palm Oil: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ismail Maznah , Alsalahi Abdulsamad , Imam Mustapha Umar , Ooi Der Jiun , Khaza’ai Huzwah , Aljaberi Musheer A. , Shamsudin Mad Nasir , Idrus Zulkifli
Published: February 2020

Background: Several natural products have been reported to elicit beneficial effects against neurodegenerative disorders due to their vitamin E contents. However, the neuroprotective efficacy of palm oil or its tocotrienol-rich fraction (TRF) from the pre-clinical cell and animal studies have not been systematically reviewed. Methods: The protocol for this systematic review was registered in “PROSPERO” (CRD42019150408). This review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. The Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) descriptors of PubMed with Boolean operators were used to construct keywords, including (“Palm Oil”[Mesh]) AND “Nervous System”[Mesh], (“Palm Oil”[Mesh]) AND “Neurodegenerative Diseases”[Mesh], (“Palm Oil”[Mesh]) AND “Brain”[Mesh], and (“Palm Oil”[Mesh]) AND “Cognition”[Mesh], to retrieve the pertinent records from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and ScienceDirect from 1990 to 2019, while bibliographies, ProQuest and Google Scholar were searched to ensure a comprehensive identification of relevant articles. Two independent investigators were involved at every stage of the systematic review, while discrepancies were resolved through discussion with a third investigator. Results: All of the 18 included studies in this review (10 animal and eight cell studies) showed that palm oil and TRF enhanced the cognitive performance of healthy animals. In diabetes-induced rats, TRF and α-tocotrienol enhanced cognitive function and exerted antioxidant, anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory activities, while in a transgenic Alzheimer’s disease (AD) animal model, TRF enhanced the cognitive function and reduced the deposition of β-amyloid by altering the expression of several genes related to AD and neuroprotection. In cell studies, simultaneous treatment with α-tocotrienols and neurotoxins improved the redox status in neuronal cells better than γ- and δ-tocotrienols. Both pre-treatment and post-treatment with α-tocotrienol relative to oxidative insults were able to enhance the survival of neuronal cells via increased antioxidant responses. Conclusions: Palm oil and its TRF enhanced the cognitive functions of healthy animals, while TRF and α-tocotrienol enhanced the cognitive performance with attenuation of oxidative stress, neuroinflammation and apoptosis in diabetes-induced or transgenic AD animal models. In cell studies, TRF and α-tocotrienol exerted prophylactic neuroprotective effects, while α-tocotrienol exerted therapeutic neuroprotective effects that were superior to those of γ- and δ-tocotrienol isomers.
Analyzing Migration Management: On the Recruitment of Nurses to Germany
Authors: Kordes Jan , Pütz Robert , Rand Sigrid
Published: February 2020

In Germany, a grave labor shortage in the nursing and elderly care sectors has prompted the response of recruiting skilled nursing staff from abroad in recent years. This article analyzes these recruitment practices as forms of “migration management”: German migration policy has changed according to this paradigm to attempt utilitarian control over migration processes and mediate between labor market concerns on the one hand and isolationist, politico-cultural seclusion on the other. Based on original research through interviews and document analysis, we identify four relevant levels of analysis in researching migration management in the context of the recruitment of skilled nurses: (1) Definition of problem areas: How is migration programmatically legitimized as a solution to social problems? (2) Categorization of migration: How are migration processes classified? (3) Change in statehood: How are sites and actors of migration control being privatized and diversified? (4) Technologies: By means of which procedures, legal foundations and political instruments does migration management take place in the everyday? We believe that taking these four foci as points of departure would be beneficial for further inquiries in critical migration research.
Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus (PEDV) ORF3 Enhances Viral Proliferation by Inhibiting Apoptosis of Infected Cells
Authors: Si Fusheng , Hu Xiaoxia , Wang Chenyang , Chen Bingqing , Wang Ruiyang , Dong Shijuan , Yu Ruisong , Li Zhen
Published: February 2020

The genomes of coronaviruses carry accessory genes known to be associated with viral virulence. The single accessory gene of porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), ORF3, is dispensable for virus replication in vitro, while viral mutants carrying ORF3 truncations exhibit an attenuated phenotype of which the underlying mechanism is unknown. Here, we studied the effect of ORF3 deletion on the proliferation of PEDV in Vero cells. To this end, four recombinant porcine epidemic diarrhea viruses (PEDVs) were rescued using targeted RNA recombination, three carrying the full-length ORF3 gene from different PEDV strains, and one from which the ORF3 gene had been deleted entirely. Our results showed that PEDVs with intact or naturally truncated ORF3 replicated to significantly higher titers than PEDV without an ORF3. Further characterization revealed that the extent of apoptosis induced by PEDV infection was significantly lower with the viruses carrying an intact or C-terminally truncated ORF3 than with the virus lacking ORF3, indicating that the ORF3 protein as well as its truncated form interfered with the apoptosis process. Collectively, we conclude that PEDV ORF3 protein promotes virus proliferation by inhibiting cell apoptosis caused by virus infection. Our findings provide important insight into the role of ORF3 protein in the pathogenicity of PEDV.
CONDITIONAL RANDOM FIELDS UNTUK PENGENALAN ENTITAS BERNAMA PADA TEKS BAHASA INDONESIA
Authors: Jaariyah Narti , Rainarli Ednawati
Published: February 2020

Pengenalan entitas bernama merupakan suatu proses untuk mengklasifikasi entitas nama seperti nama orang, lokasi, organisasi, waktu, dan kuantitas pada suatu teks. Untuk teks berbahasa Indonesia, pengenalan entitas bernama sudah pernah dilakukan menggunakan metode Hidden Markov Model (HMM) [1]. Pada perkembangannya, muncul metode Conditional Random Fields (CRF) yang merupakan perbaikan dari HMM. CRF sendiri memiliki banyak kelebihan dibandingkan metode Hidden Markov Model dan Maximum Entropy Markov Model. Hal ini terbukti pada penerapan pengenalan entitas bernama menggunakan metode CRF pada berbagai bahasa yang menghasilkan nilai akurasi yang tinggi. Untuk itu dalam penelitian ini akan digunakan CRF untuk mendeteksi entitas bernama pada teks bahasa Indonesia. Aplikasi pengenalan entitas bernama dibuat untuk menguji seberapa baik CRF dalam mengenali entitas bernama. Fitur yang digunakan adalah kelas kata sekarang, kelas kata sekarang dan kelas kata sebelumnya, dan kelas kata sekarang, kelas sebelumnya, dan kelas kata setelahnya. Pengujian menggunakan data latih dan data uji yang sama hasil akurasi terbaik yang diperoleh sebesar 90.53% dengan recall 63.09% dan precision 31.55%. Hasil pengujian terhadap data latih dan data uji yang berbeda menunjukkan nilai akurasi terbaik adalah 90.06% dengan recall dan precision adalah 68.38% dan 41.35%.
PEMANFAATAN SIMPLE ADDITIVE WEIGHT (SAW) DALAM MARKET TARGETING UNTUK MENENTUKAN CABANG BARU PADA PERUSAHAAN BUTIK X
Authors: M Tati Harihayati , Dewi Utami
Published: February 2020

Butik X adalah sebuah perusahaan yang bergerak di bidang penjualan dan/atau penyewaan pakaian pesta dengan model terkini dan unik. Jenis pakaian pesta yang dijual atau disewakan bisa berupa pakaian modern maupun pakaian tradisional. Perusahaan butik X ini sudah memiliki brand dengan jumlah pelanggan saat ini mencapai hampir 500 pelanggan yang tersebar di berbagai daerah. Manager Marketing butik X saat ini memiliki keinginan untuk memperluas pangsa pasarnya. Salah satu cara memperluas pangsa pasar adalah dengan cara membuka cabang baru, akan tetapi pihak Manager Marketing kesulitan dalam menentukan daerah mana yang memiliki pangsa pasar yang tinggi dan berpotensi untuk dibukanya cabang baru. Salah satu metode yang digunakan pada tahap market targeting adalah metode yang ada pada Sistem Pendukung Keputusan (SPK) yaitu metode Simple Additive Weight (SAW), dimana metode ini menghasilkan sebuah rekomendasi mengenai daerah yang berpotensi untuk dibukanya cabang baru sesuai kebutuhan perusahaan.
Recuento crítico del interculturalismo y de las universidades interculturales en México
Authors: Sandoval Forero Eduardo Andrés , Guerra García Ernesto , Caro Dueñas María Azucena , Meza Hernández María Eugenia
Published: February 2020

Se presenta un análisis socio-histórico del surgimiento de las Universidades Interculturales (UIs) en México y de elementos del interculturalismo que se fueron construyendo en torno a las políticas públicas neoindigenistas a partir de la época postrevolucionaria. A través de un recuento de los principales hechos jurídicos y de organización gubernamental en torno a los pueblos originarios se explican algunas reflexiones al respecto. Se expone que las UIs no emergieron por una ocurrencia
momentánea, ni tampoco que fueron consecuencia directa de un evento histórico específico, sino que surgieron como consecuencia de una serie de acontecimientos que se presentaron en contextos históricos locales, regionales y nacionales. Es por ello que cada una de estas universidades tiene una historia diferente que la hace única e irrepetible y no todas fueron creadas bajo la influencia y dirección de la CGEIB.
Las UIs forman parte del neoindigenismo mexicano y del proceso etnofágico en curso. La interculturalidad en estas instituciones ha sido tomada como retórica, pero en su práctica, como el ejemplo de la Universidad Autónoma Indígena de México (UAIM) han trasgredido los derechos internacionales en materia de diversidad étnica y cultural.
Inter-culturalidad e identidad: aproximaciones y reflexiones
Authors: Paz Frayre Miguel Ángel
Published: February 2020

El presente trabajo tiene como objetivo principal hacer un análisis de la relación que guarda la identidad con la política pública educativa, concretamente con la interculturalidad, como uno de los marcos de referencia dentro de los cuales se lleva a cabo la educación. De este modo, la identidad, sus procesos y sus configuraciones, representan un reto de comprensión. Cuando la identidad busca ser entendida dentro de contextos educativos, enmarcados por la propuesta de la interculturalidad, se hace necesario un análisis puntual de los elementos que la configuran, pero también, de los productos que de aquí se desprenden. Es importante considerar los diferentes momentos por los que las estrategias y propuestas de la educación indígena ha cruzado.