bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Primary Healthcare Professionals Experience of Transfer and Meaning According to Screening for Dysphagia
Authors: Andersen Fortes Alexia , André-Brylle Jeff , Westmark Signe , Melgaard Dorte
Published: September 2019

Transfer is a well-known theory about learning in practice contexts. This concept, combined with the need to implement screening for dysphagia in the nursing homes, has led to this project describing the experienced transfer effect and meaning among healthcare professionals after participation in a practice-orientated workshop focusing on implementing the Minimal Eating Observation Form-II (MEOF-II). Fifty-eight healthcare professionals participated in a 2.5-h facilitated practice-orientated workshop in the period from March to September, 2018. Before and after the workshop, they filled out a questionnaire that focused on the healthcare professional’s experience of skills related to dysphagia. The study documented that, after the workshop, more healthcare professionals felt competent to perform the MEOF-II to identify signs of dysphagia and know their role in screening for dysphagia. Nine months after the workshop, 80% of the residents in the nursing home had been screened for dysphagia by using the MEOF-II. This study documented that practice-orientated workshops and systematic follow-up encouraged the healthcare professionals to use the MEOF-II to contribute to the early detection of dysphagia in the nursing home. Workshops based on the transfer theory may also be relevant for implementation and application of other new skills in similar settings.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells Extract (MSCsE)-Based Therapy Alleviates Xerostomia and Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca in Sjogren’s Syndrome-Like Disease
Authors: Abughanam Ghada , Elkashty Osama A. , Liu Younan , Bakkar Mohammed O. , Tran Simon D.
Published: September 2019

Sjogren’s syndrome (SS) is an autoimmune disease that manifests primarily in salivary and lacrimal glands leading to dry mouth and eyes. Unfortunately, there is no cure for SS due to its complex etiopathogenesis. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were successfully tested for SS, but some risks and limitations remained for their clinical use. This study combined cell- and biologic-based therapies by utilizing the MSCs extract (MSCsE) to treat SS-like disease in NOD mice. We found that MSCsE and MSCs therapies were successful and comparable in preserving salivary and lacrimal glands function in NOD mice when compared to control group. Cells positive for AQP5, AQP4, α-SMA, CK5, and c-Kit were preserved. Gene expression of AQP5, EGF, FGF2, BMP7, LYZ1 and IL-10 were upregulated, and downregulated for TNF-α, TGF-β1, MMP2, CASP3, and IL-1β. The proliferation rate of the glands and serum levels of EGF were also higher. Cornea integrity and epithelial thickness were maintained due to tear flow rate preservation. Peripheral tolerance was re-established, as indicated by lower lymphocytic infiltration and anti-SS-A antibodies, less BAFF secretion, higher serum IL-10 levels and FoxP3+ Treg cells, and selective inhibition of B220+ B cells. These promising results opened new venues for a safer and more convenient combined biologic- and cell-based therapy.
NET4 Modulates the Compactness of Vacuoles in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Kaiser Sabrina , Eisa Ahmed , Kleine-Vehn Jürgen , Scheuring David
Published: September 2019

The dimension of the plants largest organelle—the vacuole—plays a major role in defining cellular elongation rates. The morphology of the vacuole is controlled by the actin cytoskeleton, but molecular players remain largely unknown. Recently, the Networked (NET) family of membrane-associated, actin-binding proteins has been identified. Here, we show that NET4A localizes to highly constricted regions of the vacuolar membrane and contributes to vacuolar morphology. Using genetic interference, we found that deregulation of NET4 abundance increases vacuolar occupancy, and that overexpression of NET4 abundance decreases vacuolar occupancy. Our data reveal that NET4A induces more compact vacuoles, correlating with reduced cellular and organ growth in Arabidopsis thaliana.
APP, PSEN1, and PSEN2 Mutations in Asian Patients with Early-Onset Alzheimer Disease
Authors: Giau Vo Van , Bagyinszky Eva , Youn Young Chul , An Seong Soo A. , Kim SangYun
Published: September 2019

The number of patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is rapidly increasing in Asia. Mutations in the amyloid protein precursor (APP), presenilin-1 (PSEN1), and presenilin-2 (PSEN2) genes can cause autosomal dominant forms of early-onset AD (EOAD). Although these genes have been extensively studied, variant classification remains a challenge, highlighting the need to colligate mutations across populations. In this study, we performed a genetic screening for mutations in the APP, PSEN1, and PSEN2 genes in 200 clinically diagnosed EOAD patients across four Asian countries, including Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Korea, between 2009 and 2018. Thirty-two (16%) patients presented pathogenic APP, PSEN1, or PSEN2 variants; eight (25%), 19 (59%), and five (16%) of the 32 patients presented APP, PSEN1, and PSEN2 variants, respectively. Among the 21 novel and known non-synonymous variants, five APP variants were found in Korean patients and one APP variant was identified in a Thai patient with EOAD. Nine, two, and one PSEN1 mutation was found in a Korean patient, Malaysian siblings, and a Thai patient, respectively. Unlike PSEN1 mutations, PSEN2 mutations were rare in patients with EOAD; only three variants were found in Korean patients with EOAD. Comparison of AD-causative point mutations in Asian countries; our findings explained only a small fraction of patients, leaving approximately 84% (p = 0.01) of autosomal dominant pedigrees genetically unexplained. We suggest that the use of high-throughput sequencing technologies for EOAD patients can potentially improve our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of AD.
The Bactericidal Activity of Temporin Analogues Against Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Golda Anna , Kosikowska-Adamus Paulina , Kret Aleksandra , Babyak Olena , Wójcik Kinga , Dobosz Ewelina , Potempa Jan , Lesner Adam , Koziel Joanna
Published: September 2019

Staphylococcus aureus is a major infectious agent responsible for a plethora of superficial skin infections and systemic diseases, including endocarditis and septic arthritis. Recent epidemiological data revealed the emergence of resistance to commonly used antibiotics, including increased numbers of both hospital- and community-acquired methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA). Due to their potent antimicrobial functions, low potential to develop resistance, and immunogenicity, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are a promising alternative treatment for multidrug-resistant strains. Here, we examined the activity of a lysine-rich derivative of amphibian temporin-1CEb (DK5) conjugated to peptides that exert pro-proliferative and/or cytoprotective activity. Analysis of a library of synthetic peptides to identify those with antibacterial potential revealed that the most potent agent against multidrug-resistant S. aureus was a conjugate of a temporin analogue with the synthetic Leu-enkephalin analogue dalargin (DAL). DAL-PEG-DK5 exerted direct bactericidal effects via bacterial membrane disruption, leading to eradication of both planktonic and biofilm-associated staphylococci. Finally, we showed that accumulation of the peptide in the cytoplasm of human keratinocytes led to a marked clearance of intracellular MRSA, resulting in cytoprotection against invading bacteria. Collectively, the data showed that DAL-PEG-DK5 might be a potent antimicrobial agent for treatment of staphylococcal skin infections.
Mildew Resistance Locus O Genes CsMLO1 and CsMLO2 Are Negative Modulators of the Cucumis sativus Defense Response to Corynespora cassiicola
Authors: Yu Guangchao , Chen Qiumin , Wang Xiangyu , Meng Xiangnan , Yu Yang , Fan Haiyan , Cui Na
Published: September 2019

Corynespora leaf spot caused by Corynespora cassiicola is one of the major diseases in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.). However, the resistance mechanisms and signals of cucumber to C. cassiicola are unclear. Here, we report that the mildew resistance locus O (MLO) genes, CsMLO1 and CsMLO2, are both negative modulators of the cucumber defense response to C. cassiicola. Subcellular localization analysis showed that CsMLO1 and CsMLO2 are localized in the plasma membrane. Expression analysis indicated that the transcript levels of CsMLO1 and CsMLO2 are linked to the defense response to C. cassiicola. Transient overexpression of either CsMLO1 or CsMLO2 in cucumber cotyledons reduced resistance to C. cassiicola, whereas silencing of either CsMLO1 or CsMLO2 enhanced resistance to C. cassiicola. The relationships of pathogenesis-related proteins, reactive oxygen species (ROS)-associated genes, and abscisic acid (ABA)-related genes to the overexpression and silencing of CsMLO1/CsMLO2 in non-infested cucumber plants were investigated. The results indicated that CsMLO1 mediated resistance against C. cassiicola by regulating the expression of pathogenesis-related proteins and ROS-associated genes, as well as through ABA signaling pathway-associated genes. The CsMLO2-mediated resistance against C. cassiicola primarily involves regulation of the expression of pathogenesis-related proteins. Our findings will guide strategies to enhance the resistance of cucumber to corynespora leaf spot.
MSSN: An Attribute-Aware Transmission Algorithm Exploiting Node Similarity for Opportunistic Social Networks
Authors: Guo Mei , Xiao Min
Published: September 2019

Recently, with the development of big data and 5G networks, the number of intelligent mobile devices has increased dramatically, therefore the data that needs to be transmitted and processed in the networks has grown exponentially. It is difficult for the end-to-end communication mechanism proposed by traditional routing algorithms to implement the massive data transmission between mobile devices. Consequently, opportunistic social networks propose that the effective data transmission process could be implemented by selecting appropriate relay nodes. At present, most existing routing algorithms find suitable next-hop nodes by comparing the similarity degree between nodes. However, when evaluating the similarity between two mobile nodes, these routing algorithms either consider the mobility similarity between nodes, or only consider the social similarity between nodes. To improve the data dissemination environment, this paper proposes an effective data transmission strategy (MSSN) utilizing mobile and social similarities in opportunistic social networks. In our proposed strategy, we first calculate the mobile similarity between neighbor nodes and destination, set a mobile similarity threshold, and compute the social similarity between the nodes whose mobile similarity is greater than the threshold. The nodes with high mobile similarity degree to the destination node are the reliable relay nodes. After simulation experiments and comparison with other existing opportunistic social networks algorithms, the results show that the delivery ratio in the proposed algorithm is 0.80 on average, the average end-to-end delay is 23.1% lower than the FCNS algorithm (A fuzzy routing-forwarding algorithm exploiting comprehensive node similarity in opportunistic social networks), and the overhead on average is 14.9% lower than the Effective Information Transmission Based on Socialization Nodes (EIMST) algorithm.
Detection of Rickettsiae, Borreliae, and Ehrlichiae in Ticks Collected from Walker County, Texas, 2017–2018
Authors: Mendell Nicole , Reynolds Erin , Blanton Lucas , Hermance Meghan , Londoño Andres , Hart Charles , Quade Bethany , Esterly Allen , Hendrix C’Brionne , Teel Pete , Bouyer Donald , Thangamani Saravanan
Published: September 2019

Cases of tick-borne diseases, including spotted fever rickettsioses, borreliosis, babesiosis, anaplasmosis and ehrlichiosis, in the United States and territories have more than doubled from 2004 to 2016 and account for 77% of all vector-borne disease reports. In an effort to inform control efforts, the presence of tick-borne pathogens and their vectors was assessed in a recreational park in Walker County, Texas. Here we report data from questing ticks collected on three dates from June 2017 to June 2018. The majority of ticks collected were Amblyomma americanum (96.69%) followed by three additional tick species: Dermacentor variabilis (2.59%), Ixodes scapularis (0.52%), and A. maculatum (0.21%). Ticks were pooled and tested for molecular evidence of bacterial and viral pathogens, respectively. All of the 68 pools of A. americanum had molecular evidence of the spotted fever group rickettsia, Rickettsia amblyommatis. Additionally, six (8.82%) of the A. americanum pools contained sequences matching Ehrlichia chaffeensis, the pathogen responsible for human monocytotropic ehrlichiosis, and 11 (16.18%) for E. ewingii. Three of the A. americanum pools demonstrated evidence of Borrelia lonestari. The presence of etiologic agents of known human disease in this study merits the continued surveillance efforts of ticks and their pathogens in areas where they could pose risks to public health.
Use of DNA Markers for Grape Phylloxera Population and Evolutionary Genetics: From RAPDs to SSRs and Beyond
Authors: Tello Javier , Forneck Astrid
Published: September 2019

Grape phylloxera (Daktulosphaira vitifoliae Fitch) is a major pest of cultivated grapevines (Vitis spp.), occurring in virtually all viticultural regions around the world. Different grape phylloxera strains can be found at varying levels on leaves and roots on both own-rooted plants and in plants grafted onto partially resistant rootstocks. Considering its relevance for the adequate management of the pest in infested vineyards, the analysis of its genetic diversity has received considerable attention from the scientific community in the last decades. Here, we review 25 years of DNA-based molecular markers applied to the analysis of the genetic structure and the reproductive mode of grape phylloxera in its native range and in different introduced regions. The use given to RAPD, AFLP, mtDNA sequencing and microsatellite (SSR) genetic markers for the analysis of grape phylloxera diversity is discussed, and an overview of the main findings obtained after their application to different populations collected in diverse regions all around the world is shown. Lastly, we explore how recent advancements in molecular biology and in modern high throughput genotyping technologies may be applied to better understand grape phylloxera natural diversity at a molecular level.
Large-Fiber Neuropathy in Parkinson’s Disease: Clinical, Biological, and Electroneurographic Assessment of a Romanian Cohort
Authors: Vanta Oana Maria , Tohanean Nicoleta , Pintea Sebastian , Perju-Dumbrava Lacramioara
Published: September 2019

(1) Background: Increased attention has lately been given to polyneuropathy in Parkinson’s Disease (PD). Several papers postulated that large-fiber neuropathy (PNP) in PD is related to vitamin B12 deficiency and L-Dopa exposure. (2) Methods: Using a cross-sectional, observational study, we evaluated 73 PD patients without a previously known cause of PNP using clinical scores (UPDRS II and III and Toronto Clinical Scoring System), biological evaluation of vitamin B12 and folic acid, and nerve conduction studies to assess the prevalence and features of PNP. (3) Results: The prevalence of PNP was 49.3% in the study group. In the L-Dopa group, the frequency of PNP was 67.3% as compared to PNP in the non-L-Dopa group, where one subject had PNP (χ2 = 23.41, p < 0.01). PNP was predominantly sensory with mild to moderate axonal loss. Cyanocobalamin correlated with L-Dopa daily dose (r = −0.287, p < 0.05) and L-Dopa duration of administration (r = −0.316, p < 0.05). L-Dopa daily dose correlated with the amplitudes of sensory nerve action potentials of the superficial peroneal and radial nerves (r = −0.312, p < 0.05) (r = −0.336, p < 0.05), respectively. (4) Conclusions: PNP is more frequent in L-Dopa-treated patients than in L-Dopa-naïve patients. The results imply that longer exposure to high doses of L-Dopa may cause vitamin B12 and folate imbalance and PNP, secondarily.
High-Frequency Ultrasound for Assessment of Peri-Implant Bone Thickness
Authors: Marotti Juliana , Neuhaus Sarah , Habor Daniel , Bohner Lauren , Heger Stefan , Radermacher Klaus , Wolfart Stefan
Published: September 2019

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of high-frequency ultrasound (HFUS) for measurement of bone thickness surrounding dental implants. Methods: Eight porcine bone samples containing dental implants were scanned by a HFUS scanner and compared using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and an optical scanner. Bone thickness was measured in the buccolingual region of dental implants in 10 points distributed between the platform and apical portion of the implant. Results: The mean measurement error for the ultrasound method was 0.11 mm, whereas CBCT showed a measurement error of 0.20 mm. For both devices, the maximal measurement error was 0.28 mm. Conclusion: Within the simulated limited conditions of this study, high-frequency ultrasound, with optical scanning used as a reference, presented higher accuracy in comparison to CBCT, and seems to be a promising tool for measuring peri-implant bone.
A Numerical Investigation of a Winglet-Propeller Using an LES Model
Authors: Zhu Wencai , Gao Hongtao
Published: September 2019

The generation of tip vortex cavitation (TVC) is a common phenomenon in marine propellers. Therefore, it is important to find a way for the effective suppression of TVC. Based on the enlightenment of bionics, a propeller with winglets was numerically investigated by using a large eddy simulation (LES) model and the commercial software STAR-CCM+. Various variables, such as mesh size, number of prism layers, vapor properties and time step, were analyzed using the benchmark MAU5-80 propeller. The open water characteristics calculated for the benchmark propeller were compared with experimental data. The meshes in the region of the tip vortex wake were refined. The power spectral density (PSD) of the thrust coefficient and axial velocity were investigated. The comparison of TVC between the benchmark propeller and the propeller with winglets was studied with the Q-criterion, helicity and volume fraction of the vapor. The strength of the tip vortex wake is weakened by winglets; therefore, the presence of winglets leads to a reduction in vapor volume, which in turn alleviates TVC.
Effects of Rubber Size on the Cracking Resistance of Rubberized Mortars
Authors: Yu Yong , Zhu Han
Published: September 2019

This study investigated the cracking resistance of rubberized cement-based mortars. Three rubber particle sizes were used: Rubber A (major particle size 2–4 mm), Rubber B (major particle size 1–3 mm), and Rubber C (major particle size 0–2 mm). Traditional restrained ring shrinkage test (RRST), new restrained squared eccentric ring shrinkage test (RSERST), mechanical test, and scanning electron microscopy test were conducted. Results showed that the cracking inhibitory effect of Rubber B was the highest among the three rubber particle sizes. SEM results revealed that the particle size of the rubber does not have much effect on the ITZ (interfacial transition zone) position of rubber and cement paste. For the strength differences of the three types of rubberized mortar, it is mainly because the specific surface area increased as the rubber size decreased, which lead to more ITZ positions and pore structures. Our study verified that RSERST can predict the cracking position and shorten the test period. Compared with RRST, RSERST can also increase the restriction degree. K R is defined as the intensification factor of RSERST restriction degree. The average intensification factor is K R ¯ = 1.17 .
Plasma-Exposure-Induced Mobility Enhancement of LiTFSI-Doped Spiro-OMeTAD Hole Transport Layer in Perovskite Solar Cells and Its Impact on Device Performance
Authors: Qu Hao , Zhao Gao , Wang Yumeng , Liang Lijuan , Zhang Long , Liu Wenya , Zhang Chunmei , Niu Chen , Fang Yi , Shi Jiazi , Cheng Jiushan , Wang Dongdong
Published: September 2019

2,2′,7,7′-Tetrakis(N,N-di-p-methoxyphenyl-amine)-9,9′-spirobifluorene (spiro-OMeTAD) film currently prevails as hole transport layer (HTL) employed in perovskite solar cells (PSCs). However, the standard preparation method for spin-coated, Lithium bis(trifluoromethylsulfony) imide (LiTFSI)-doped, spiro-OMeTAD HTL depends on a time-consuming and uncontrolled oxidation process to gain desirable electrical conductivity to favor device operation. Our previous work demonstrated that ~10 s oxygen or oxygen containing gas discharge plasma exposure can oxidize spiro-OMeTAD HTL effectively and make PSCs work well. In this communication, hole-only devices are fabricated and in-situ current density-voltage measurements are performed to investigate the change in hole mobility of LiTFSI-doped spiro-OMeTAD films under plasma exposure. The results reveal that hole mobility values can be increased averagely from ~5.0 × 10−5 cm2V−1s−1 to 7.89 × 10−4 cm2V−1s−1 with 7 s O2 plasma exposure, and 9.33 × 10−4 cm2V−1s−1 with 9 s O2/Ar plasma exposure. The effects on the photovoltaic performance of complete PSC devices are examined, and optical emission spectroscopy (OES) is used for a diagnostic to explain the different exposure effects of O2 and O2/Ar plasma. High efficiency, fine controllability and good compatibility with current plasma surface cleaning techniques may make this method an important step towards the future commercialization of photovoltaic technologies employing spiro-OMeTAD hole transport material.
Inverse Generalized Maximum Flow Problems
Authors: Tayyebi Javad , Deaconu Adrian
Published: September 2019

A natural extension of maximum flow problems is called the generalized maximum flow problem taking into account the gain and loss factors for arcs. This paper investigates an inverse problem corresponding to this problem. It is to increase arc capacities as less cost as possible in a way that a prescribed flow becomes a maximum flow with respect to the modified capacities. The problem is referred to as the generalized maximum flow problem (IGMF). At first, we present a fast method that determines whether the problem is feasible or not. Then, we develop an algorithm to solve the problem under the max-type distances in O ( m n · log n ) time. Furthermore, we prove that the problem is strongly NP-hard under sum-type distances and propose a heuristic algorithm to find a near-optimum solution to these NP-hard problems. The computational experiments show the accuracy and the efficiency of the algorithm.
Physical Activity and Body Composition in Children and Their Mothers According to Mother’s Gestational Diabetes Risk: A Seven-Year Follow-Up Study
Authors: Leppänen Marja H , Raitanen Jani , Husu Pauliina , Kujala Urho M , Tuominen Pipsa PA , Vähä-Ypyä Henri , Luoto Riitta
Published: September 2019

Background and Objectives: There is lack of knowledge on whether mothers’ gestational diabetes (GDM) risk is related to their physical activity (PA) or their children’s PA and body composition. We aimed to examine the difference in (1) change in self-reported PA from pre-pregnancy to seven-year follow-up and (2) accelerometer-based PA at seven years after delivery between the mothers having GDM risk (GDMRyes-mothers) and not having GDM risk (GDMRno-mothers). Furthermore, we examined the difference in children’s PA and/or body composition at six years of age according to their mothers’ GDM risk. Materials and Methods: The study included 199 Finnish women. GDM risk factors were screened at the beginning of pregnancy, and the women were classified as GDMRyes-mothers if they had at least one GDM risk factor (body mass index ≥25 kg/m2; age ≥40 years; family history of diabetes; GDM, signs of glucose intolerance, or newborn’s macrosomia (≥4500 g) in earlier pregnancy) or as GDMRno-mothers if they had no risk factors. Mothers’ PA was assessed by self-reporting at 8–12 gestational weeks concerning pre-pregnancy PA and at a follow-up seven years after the delivery. Moreover, mothers’ and their children’s PA was measured using a triaxial Hookie AM20-accelerometer at seven years after delivery. Children’s body composition was assessed using a TANITA bioelectrical impedance device. Adjusted linear regression analyses were applied. Results: GDMRno-mothers increased their self-reported PA more than GDMRyes-mothers from pre-pregnancy to the seven-year follow-up. Concerning women’s measured PA as well as children’s PA and body composition at seven years after delivery, the differences were non-significant between GDMRyes-mothers and GDMRno-mothers. However, of the GDM risk factors, mothers’ pre-pregnancy body mass index was positively related to unhealthier body composition in boys at six years of age. Conclusion: Health promotion should be targeted at women with GDM risk factors, in particular overweight women, in enhancing women’s PA in the long term and their children’s healthy body composition.
Formaldehyde Exposure and Acute Myeloid Leukemia: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Allegra Alessandro , Spatari Giovanna , Mattioli Stefano , Curti Stefania , Innao Vanessa , Ettari Roberta , Allegra Andrea Gaetano , Giorgianni Concetto , Gangemi Sebastiano , Musolino Caterina
Published: September 2019

Background and objective: The aim of the present study was to evaluate associations between cumulative and peak formaldehyde exposure and occurrence of acute myeloid leukemia. Material and Methods: A comprehensive search was performed using the PubMed and Embase databases. We included studies presenting information about the role of formaldehyde in leukemic occurrence and mortality risk. Then, full texts of the selected references were assessed, and references of included studies were checked to identify additional articles. Result: The information was then summarized and organized in the present review. A total of 81 articles were obtained from the search. Conclusion: Findings from the review of the literature do not support the hypothesis that formaldehyde is a cause of acute myeloid leukemia.
Flower and Leaf Extracts of Sambucus nigra L.: Application of Membrane Processes to Obtain Fractions with Antioxidant and Antityrosinase Properties
Authors: Tundis Rosa , Ursino Claudia , Bonesi Marco , Loizzo Monica R. , Sicari Vincenzo , Pellicanò Teresa , Manfredi Ilaria L. , Figoli Alberto , Cassano Alfredo
Published: September 2019

This study aimed at evaluating and comparing the chemical profile as well as the antityrosinase and antioxidant activities of ethanol (EtOH) and methanol (MeOH) extracts of Sambucus nigra L. (Adoxaceae) flowers and leaves in order to discover new candidates for food additives and cosmetic and pharmaceutical products. For this purpose, a novel lower-melting-point ethylene-chlorotrifluoroethylene (LMP ECTFE) nanofiltration (NF) membrane was employed in order to produce the concentrated fractions of S. nigra. Floral extracts were richer in phytochemicals in comparison to the leaf extracts. The High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) profile revealed rutin, quercetin, protocateuchic acid, 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid, and neochlorogenic acid as the most abundant compounds. Ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), 2,2’-diphenil-1-picrylhydrazil (DPPH) radical scavenging, and 2,2’-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) tests were used to investigate the antioxidant properties. NF retentate fractions of floral ethanol extracts exerted the highest tyrosinase inhibitory activity with an IC50 of 53.9 µg/mL and the highest ABTS radical scavenging activity (IC50 of 46.4 µg/mL). In conclusion, the present investigation revealed the potential benefits of NF application in S. nigra extracts processing, suggesting the use of retentate fractions as a promising source for antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibitory compounds which could pave the way for future applications.
Evaluation of Low Cycle Fatigue Performance of Selective Laser Melted Titanium Alloy Ti–6Al–4V
Authors: Zhang Peng , He Allen Naihui , Liu Fei , Zhang Kaifei , Jiang Junjie , Zhang David Zhengwen
Published: September 2019

The material of Ti–6Al–4V has been widely applied in various industries, such as automobile, aerospace, and medical due to its high specific strength, superior thermal stability and strong corrosion resistance. In the recent decades, selective laser melting (SLM) has become an attractive method to fabricate Ti–6Al–4V parts, thanks to its significant advantages in low material consumption, the high degree of freedom in design, low carbon footprint, etc. Predictability of SLM material fatigue properties is especially important for the safety-critical structures under dynamic load cases. The present research is aimed at evaluating the low cycle fatigue (LCF) performance of SLM Ti–6Al–4V under high loading states. LCF tests were performed for as-built and annealed SLM Ti–6Al–4V. Comparison between LCF properties of SLM Ti–6Al–4V and the wrought Ti–6Al–4V was also made. It was found that as-built SLM Ti–6Al–4V demonstrated a comparable LCF performance with the wrought material. The LCF life of as-built SLM Ti–6Al–4V was longer than that of wrought Ti–6Al–4V at lower strain amplitudes. However, the wrought Ti–6Al–4V had better LCF performance at higher strain amplitudes. The results revealed that the porosity in the as-built SLM material exerted much more impact on the degradation of the material at high strain amplitudes. Annealing deteriorated the LCF performance of SLM Ti–6Al–4V material due to the formation of coarser grains. The cyclic Ramberg–Osgood and the Basquin–Coffin–Manson models were fitted to depict the cyclic stress–strain and the strain–life curves for the SLM Ti–6Al–4V, based on which the LCF performance parameters were determined. In addition, the fatigue fracture surfaces were observed by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the results indicated that fatigue cracks originated from the surface or subsurface defects.
Effect of Process Parameters on Residual Stresses, Distortions, and Porosity in Selective Laser Melting of Maraging Steel 300
Authors: Mugwagwa Lameck , Yadroitsev Igor , Matope Stephen
Published: September 2019

Selective laser melting (SLM) is one of the most well-known additive manufacturing methods available for the fabrication of functional parts from metal powders. Although SLM is now an established metal additive manufacturing technique, its widespread application in industry is still hindered by inherent phenomena, one of which is high residual stresses. Some of the effects of residual stresses–such as warping and thermal stress-related cracking–cannot be corrected by post processing. Therefore, establishing input process parameter combinations that result in the least residual stress magnitudes and related distortions and/or cracking is critical. This paper presents the influence of laser power, scanning speed, and layer thickness on residual stresses, distortions and achievable density for maraging steel 300 steel parts in order to establish the most optimum input parameter combinations. An analysis of the interdependence between process outcomes shows that high residual stress magnitudes lead to high dimensional distortions in the finished parts, whilst porous parts suffer relatively lower residual stresses and associated distortions.
Influence of Storage Conditions and Preservatives on Metabolite Fingerprints in Urine
Authors: Wang Xinchen , Gu Haiwei , Palma-Duran Susana A. , Fierro Andres , Jasbi Paniz , Shi Xiaojian , Bresette William , Tasevska Natasha
Published: September 2019

Human urine, which is rich in metabolites, provides valuable approaches for biomarker measurement. Maintaining the stability of metabolites in urine is critical for accurate and reliable research results and subsequent interpretation. In this study, the effect of storage temperature (4, 22, and 40 °C), storage time (24 and 48 h), and use of preservatives (boric acid (BA), thymol) and para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) on urinary metabolites in the pooled urine samples from 20 participants was systematically investigated using large-scale targeted liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)-based metabolomics. Statistical analysis of 158 reliably detected metabolites showed that metabolites in urine with no preservative remained stable at 4 °C for 24 and 48 h as well as at 22 °C for 24 h, but significant metabolite differences were observed in urine stored at 22 °C for 48 h and at 40 °C. The mere addition of BA caused metabolite changes. Thymol was observed to be effective in maintaining metabolite stability in urine in all the conditions designed, most likely due to the inhibitory effect of thymol on urine microbiota. Our results provide valuable urine preservation guidance during sample storage, which is essential for obtaining reliable, accurate, and reproducible analytical results from urine samples.
Petrogenesis of the Eudialyte Complex of the Lovozero Alkaline Massif (Kola Peninsula, Russia)
Authors: Mikhailova Julia A. , Ivanyuk Gregory Yu. , Kalashnikov Andrey O. , Pakhomovsky Yakov A. , Bazai Ayya V. , Yakovenchuk Victor N.
Published: September 2019

The Lovozero Alkaline Massif intruded through the Archaean granite-gneiss and Devonian volcaniclastic rocks about 360 million years ago, and formed a large (20 × 30 km) laccolith-type body, rhythmically layered in its lower part (the Layered Complex) and indistinctly layered and enriched in eudialyte-group minerals in its upper part (the Eudialyte Complex). The Eudialyte Complex is composed of two groups of rocks. Among the hypersolvus meso-melanocratic alkaline rocks (mainly malignite, as well as shonkinite, melteigite, and ijolite enriched with the eudialyte-group minerals, EGM), there are lenses of subsolvus leucocratic rocks (foyaite, fine-grained nepheline syenite, urtite with phosphorus mineralization, and primary lovozerite-group minerals). Leucocratic rocks were formed in the process of the fractional crystallization of melanocratic melt enriched in Fe, high field strength elements (HFSE), and halogens. The fractionation of the melanocratic melt proceeded in the direction of an enrichment in nepheline and a decrease in the aegirine content. A similar fractionation path occurs in the Na2O-Al2O3-Fe2O3-SiO2 system, where the melt of the “ijolite” type (approximately 50% of aegirine) evolves towards “phonolitic eutectic” (approximately 10% of aegirine). The temperature of the crystallization of subsolvus leucocratic rocks was about 550 °C. Hypersolvus meso-melanocratic rocks were formed at temperatures of 700–350 °C, with a gradual transition from an almost anhydrous HFSE-Fe-Cl/F-rich alkaline melt to a Na(Cl, F)-rich water solution. Devonian volcaniclastic rocks underwent metasomatic treatment of varying intensity and survived in the Eudialyte Complex, some remaining unchanged and some turning into nepheline syenites. In these rocks, there are signs of a gradual increase in the intensity of alkaline metasomatism, including a wide variety of zirconium phases. The relatively high fugacity of fluorine favored an early formation of zircon in apo-basalt metasomatites. The ensuing crystallization of aegirine in the metasomatites led to an increase in alkali content relative to silicon and parakeldyshite formation. After that, EGM was formed, under the influence of Ca-rich solutions produced by basalt fenitization.
Anti-Hepatitis B Virus Activity of Esculetin from Microsorium fortunei In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Huang Si-Xin , Mou Jun-Fei , Luo Qin , Mo Qing-Hu , Zhou Xian-Li , Huang Xiao , Xu Qing , Tan Xiang-Duan , Chen Xu , Liang Cheng-Qin
Published: September 2019

Coumarins are widely present in a variety of plants and have a variety of pharmacological activities. In this study, we isolated a coumarin compound from Microsorium fortunei (Moore) Ching; the compound was identified as esculetin by hydrogen and carbon spectroscopy. Its anti-hepatitis B virus (HBV) activity was investigated in vitro and in vivo. In the human hepatocellular liver carcinoma 2.2.15 cell line (HepG2.2.15) transfected with HBV, esculetin effecting inhibited the expression of the HBV antigens and HBV DNA in vitro. Esculetin inhibited the expression of Hepatitis B virus X (HBx) protein in a dose-dependent manner. In the ducklings infected with duck hepatitis B virus (DHBV), the levels of DHBV DNA, duck hepatitis B surface antigen (DHBsAg), duck hepatitis B e-antigen (DHBeAg), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) decreased significantly after esculetin treatment. Summing up the above, the results suggest that esculetin efficiently inhibits HBV replication both in vitro and in vivo, which provides an opportunity for further development of esculetin as antiviral drug.
“Transitivity”: A Code for Computing Kinetic and Related Parameters in Chemical Transformations and Transport Phenomena
Authors: Machado Hugo G. , Sanches-Neto Flávio O. , Coutinho Nayara D. , Mundim Kleber C. , Palazzetti Federico , Carvalho-Silva Valter H.
Published: September 2019

The Transitivity function, defined in terms of the reciprocal of the apparent activation energy, measures the propensity for a reaction to proceed and can provide a tool for implementing phenomenological kinetic models. Applications to systems which deviate from the Arrhenius law at low temperature encouraged the development of a user-friendly graphical interface for estimating the kinetic and thermodynamic parameters of physical and chemical processes. Here, we document the Transitivity code, written in Python, a free open-source code compatible with Windows, Linux and macOS platforms. Procedures are made available to evaluate the phenomenology of the temperature dependence of rate constants for processes from the Arrhenius and Transitivity plots. Reaction rate constants can be calculated by the traditional Transition-State Theory using a set of one-dimensional tunneling corrections (Bell (1935), Bell (1958), Skodje and Truhlar and, in particular, the deformed ( d -TST) approach). To account for the solvent effect on reaction rate constant, implementation is given of the Kramers and of Collins–Kimball formulations. An input file generator is provided to run various molecular dynamics approaches in CPMD code. Examples are worked out and made available for testing. The novelty of this code is its general scope and particular exploit of d -formulations to cope with non-Arrhenius behavior at low temperatures, a topic which is the focus of recent intense investigations. We expect that this code serves as a quick and practical tool for data documentation from electronic structure calculations: It presents a very intuitive graphical interface which we believe to provide an excellent working tool for researchers and as courseware to teach statistical thermodynamics, thermochemistry, kinetics, and related areas.
Eco-Friendly Extraction and Characterisation of Nutraceuticals from Olive Leaves
Authors: Benincasa Cinzia , Santoro Ilaria , Nardi Monica , Cassano Alfredo , Sindona Giovanni
Published: September 2019

Olive tree (Olea europaea L.) leaf, a waste by-product of the olive oil industry, is an inexpensive and abundant source of biophenols of great interest for various industrial applications in the food supplement, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries. In this work, the aqueous extraction of high-added value compounds from olive leaves by using microfiltered (MF), ultrapure (U), and osmosis-treated (O) water was investigated. The extraction of target compounds, including oleuropein (Olp), hydroxytyrosol (HyTyr), tyrosol (Tyr), verbascoside (Ver), lutein (Lut), and rutin (Rut), was significantly affected by the characteristics of the water used. Indeed, according to the results of liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry, the extracting power of microfiltered water towards rutin resulted very poor, while a moderate extraction was observed for oleuropein, verbascoside, and lutein. On the other hand, high concentrations of hydroxytyrosol were detected in the aqueous extracts produced with microfiltered water. The extraction power of ultrapure and osmosis-treated water proved to be very similar for the bio-active compounds oleuropein, verbascoside, lutein, and rutin. The results clearly provide evidence of the possibility of devising new eco-friendly strategies based on the use of green solvents which can be applied to recover bioactive compounds from olive leaves.
Dynamic Imaging of Transferrin Receptor Molecules on Single Live Cell with Bridge Gaps-Enhanced Raman Tags
Authors: Zhang Qinnan , Li Jiaosheng , Tang Ping , Lu Xiaoxu , Tian Jindong , Zhong Liyun
Published: September 2019

A metal nanoparticles-based surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) technique has been developed for biosensing and bioimaging due to its advantages in ultra-narrow line width for multiplexing, ultra-high sensitivity and excellent photostability. However, the “hotspots” effect between nanoparticles usually leads to unstable and nonuniform Raman enhancement, and this will greatly reduce the quality of SERS imaging. In this study, we employ the bridge gaps-enhanced Raman tags (BGERTs) to perform SERS imaging, in which BGERTs can not only reduce the influence of the “hotspots” effect between nanoparticles on Raman signal intensity but provide a great Raman enhancement when the Gold (Au) shell is thick enough. Based on BGERTs and its conjugation with the thiol-terminated polyethylene glycol (PEG) and transferrin, we construct a targeted Transferrin (TF)-PEG-BGERTs SERS nanoprobe and achieve the dynamic imaging of transferrin receptor (TfR) molecules on a single live cell, in which the role of transferrin-conjugated PEG-BGERT is for targeting TfR molecules located in cellular membrane surface. Importantly, this BGERTs-based SERS imaging could potentially provide a useful tool for studying the precise mechanism during the receptor-mediated nanoparticles endocytosis or cell proliferation, apoptosis, and other complicated molecular events.
Toxicological Assessment of ITER-Like Tungsten Nanoparticles Using an In Vitro 3D Human Airway Epithelium Model
Authors: George Isabelle , Uboldi Chiara , Bernard Elodie , Sobrido Marcos , Dine Sarah , Hagège Agnès , Vrel Dominique , Herlin Nathalie , Rose Jerome , Orsière Thierry , Grisolia Christian , Rousseau Bernard , Malard Véronique
Published: September 2019

The International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) is an international project aimed at the production of carbon-free energy through the use of thermonuclear fusion. During ITER operation, in case of a loss-of-vacuum-accident, tungsten nanoparticles (W-NPs) could potentially be released into the environment and induce occupational exposure via inhalation. W-NPs toxicity was evaluated on MucilAir™, a 3D in vitro cell model of the human airway epithelium. MucilAir™ was exposed for 24 h to metallic ITER-like milled W-NPs, tungstate (WO42−) and tungsten carbide cobalt particles alloy (WC-Co). Cytotoxicity and its reversibility were assessed using a kinetic mode up to 28 days after exposure. Epithelial tightness, metabolic activity and interleukin-8 release were also evaluated. Electron microscopy was performed to determine any morphological modification, while mass spectrometry allowed the quantification of W-NPs internalization and of W transfer through the MucilAir™. Our results underlined a decrease in barrier integrity, no effect on metabolic activity or cell viability and a transient increase in IL-8 secretion after exposure to ITER-like milled W-NPs. These effects were associated with W-transfer through the epithelium, but not with intracellular accumulation. We have shown that, under our experimental conditions, ITER-like milled W-NPs have a minor impact on the MucilAir™ in vitro model.
Enhancing the Relative Sensitivity of V5+, V4+ and V3+ Based Luminescent Thermometer by the Optimization of the Stoichiometry of Y3Al5−xGaxO12 Nanocrystals
Authors: Kniec Karolina , Ledwa Karolina , Marciniak Lukasz
Published: September 2019

In this work the influence of the Ga3+ concentration on the luminescent properties and the abilities of the Y3Al5−xGaxO12: V nanocrystals to noncontact temperature sensing were investigated. It was shown that the increase of the Ga3+ amount enables enhancement of V4+ emission intensity in respect to the V3+ and V5+ and thus modify the color of emission. The introduction of Ga3+ ions provides the appearance of the crystallographic sites, suitable for V4+ occupation. Consequently, the increase of V4+ amount facilitates V5+ → V4+ interionic energy transfer throughout the shortening of the distance between interacting ions. The opposite thermal dependence of V4+ and V5+ emission intensities enables to create the bandshape luminescent thermometr of the highest relative sensitivity of V-based luminescent thermometers reported up to date (Smax, 2.64%/°C, for Y3Al2Ga3O12 at 0 °C). An approach of tuning the performance of Y3Al5−xGaxO12: V nanocrystals to luminescent temperature sensing, including the spectral response, maximal relative sensitivity and usable temperature range, by the Ga3+ doping was presented and discussed.
Aqueous-Based Binary Sulfide Nanoparticle Inks for Cu2ZnSnS4 Thin Films Stabilized with Tin(IV) Chalcogenide Complexes
Authors: Wang Han , Yasin Amrita , Quitoriano Nathaniel J. , Demopoulos George P.
Published: September 2019

Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) is a promising semiconductor material for photovoltaic applications, with excellent optical and electronic properties while boasting a nontoxic, inexpensive, and abundant elemental composition. Previous high-quality CZTS thin films often required either vacuum-based deposition processes or the use of organic ligands/solvents for ink formulation, which are associated with various issues regarding performance or economic feasibility. To address these issues, an alternative method for depositing CZTS thin films using an aqueous-based nanoparticle suspension is demonstrated in this work. Nanoparticles of constituent binary sulfides (CuxS and ZnS) are stabilized in an ink using tin(IV)-based, metal chalcogenide complexes such as [Sn2S6]4−. This research paper provides a systematic study of the nanoparticle synthesis and ink formulation via the enabling role of the tin chalcogenide complexing power, the deposition of high-quality CZTS thin films via spin coating and annealing under sulfur vapor atmosphere, their structural characterization in terms of nanocrystal phase, morphology, microstructure, and densification, and their resultant optoelectronic properties.
Evidence of the Presence of Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza A Viruses in Wild Waterfowl in 2018 in South Africa
Authors: Poen Marjolein J. , Fouchier Ron A. M. , Webby Richard J. , Webster Robert G. , El Zowalaty Mohamed E.
Published: September 2019

Avian influenza viruses are pathogens of global concern to both animal and human health. Wild birds are the natural reservoir of avian influenza viruses and facilitate virus transport over large distances. Surprisingly, limited research has been performed to determine avian influenza host species and virus dynamics in wild birds on the African continent, including South Africa. This study described the first wild bird surveillance efforts for influenza A viruses in KwaZulu-Natal Province in South Africa after the 2017/2018 outbreak with highly pathogenic avian influenza virus H5N8 in poultry. A total of 550 swab samples from 278 migratory waterfowl were tested using real-time RT-PCR methods. Two samples (0.7%) were positive for avian influenza virus based on the matrix gene real-time RT-PCR but were negative for the hemagglutinin subtypes H5 and H7. Unfortunately, no sequence information or viable virus could be retrieved from the samples. This study shows that avian influenza viruses are present in the South African wild bird population, emphasizing the need for more extensive surveillance studies to determine the South African avian influenza gene pool and relevant local host species.