bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The ROMP: A Powerful Approach to Synthesize Novel pH-Sensitive Nanoparticles for Tumor Therapy
Authors: Bertrand Philippe , Blanquart Christophe , Héroguez Valérie
Published: February 2019

Fast clearance, metabolism, and systemic toxicity are major limits for the clinical use of anti-cancer drugs. Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) present these defects, despite displaying promising anti-tumor properties on tumor cells in vitro and in in vivo models of cancer. The specific delivery of anti-cancer drugs into the tumor should improve their clinical benefit by limiting systemic toxicity and by increasing the anti-tumor effect. This paper deals with the synthesis of the polymeric nanoparticle platform, which was produced by Ring-Opening Metathesis Polymerization (ROMP), able to release anti-cancer drugs in dispersion, such as histone deacetylase inhibitors, into mesothelioma tumors. The core-shell nanoparticles (NPs) have stealth properties due to their poly(ethylene oxide) shell and can be viewed as universal nano-carriers on which any alkyne-modified anti-cancer molecule can be grafted by click chemistry. A cleavage reaction of the chemical bond between NPs and drugs through the contact of NPs with a medium presenting an acidic pH, which is typically a cancer tumor environment or an acidic intracellular compartment, induces a controlled release of the bioactive molecule in its native form. In our in vivo syngeneic model of mesothelioma, a highly selective accumulation of the particles in the tumor was obtained. The release of the drugs led to an 80% reduction of tumor weight for the best compound without toxicity. Our work demonstrates that the use of theranostic nanovectors leads to an optimized delivery of epigenetic inhibitors in tumors, which improves their anti-tumor properties in vivo.
Bioactive Titanium Surfaces: Interactions of Eukaryotic and Prokaryotic Cells of Nano Devices Applied to Dental Practice
Authors: Cicciù Marco , Fiorillo Luca , Herford Alan Scott , Crimi Salvatore , Bianchi Alberto , D’Amico Cesare , Laino Luigi , Cervino Gabriele
Published: February 2019

Background: In recent years, many advances have been made in the fields of bioengineering and biotechnology. Many methods have been proposed for the in vitro study of anatomical structures and alloplastic structures. Many steps forward have been made in the field of prosthetics and grafts and one of the most debated problems lies in the biomimetics and biocompatibility of the materials used. The contact surfaces between alloplastic material and fabric are under study, and this has meant that the surfaces were significantly improved. To ensure a good contact surface with the cells of our body and be able to respond to an attack by a biofilm or prevent the formation, this is the true gold standard. In the dental field, the study of the surfaces of contact with the bone tissue of the implants is the most debated, starting from the first concepts of osteointegration. Method: The study searched MEDLINE databases from January 2008 to November 2018. We considered all the studies that talk about nanosurface and the biological response of the latter, considering only avant-garde works in this field. Results: The ultimate aim of this study is to point out all the progress made in the field of bioengineering and biotechnologies about nanosurface. Surface studies allow you to have alloplastic materials that integrate better with our body and allow more predictable rehabilitations. Particularly in the field of dental implantology the study of surfaces has allowed us to make huge steps forward in times of rehabilitation. Overcoming this obstacle linked to the time of osseointegration, however, today the real problem seems to be linked to the “pathologies of these surfaces”, or the possible infiltration, and formation of a biofilm, difficult to eliminate, being the implant surface, inert. Conclusions: The results of the present investigation demonstrated how nanotechnologies contribute substantially to the development of new materials in the biomedical field, being able to perform a large number of tests on the surface to advance research. Thanks to 3D technology and to the reconstructions of both the anatomical structures and eventually the alloplastic structures used in rehabilitation it is possible to consider all the mechanical characteristics too. Recent published papers highlighted how the close interaction between cells and the biomaterial applied to the human body is the main objective in the final integration of the device placed to manage pathologies or for rehabilitation after a surgical tumor is removed.
Bioinspiration in Fashion—A Review
Authors: Wood Jane
Published: February 2019

This paper provides an overview of the main technologies currently being investigated in the textile industry as alternatives to contemporary fashion fabrics. The present status of the textile industry and its impact on the environment is discussed, and the key drivers for change are highlighted. Historical use of bioinspiration in synthetic textiles is evaluated, with the impact of these developments on the fashion and apparel industries described. The review then discusses the move to nature as a supplier of new fabric sources with several alternatives explored, drawing special attention to the sustainability and performance aspects of these new sources.
Silver-Mediated Methoxylation of Aryl C(sp2)–H Bonds Directing by DMEDA
Authors: Zhang Guofu , Zhu Jianfei , Xuan Lidi , Ding Chengrong
Published: February 2019

The first example of silver-mediated phosphine-promoted methoxylation of aryl C(sp2)–H bonds with the commercially available reagent for the preparation of alkyl aryl ethers has been developed. This protocol is characterized by mild reaction conditions, broad substrate scope, and high regioselectivity.
Later Chronotype Is Associated with Higher Alcohol Consumption and More Adverse Childhood Experiences in Young Healthy Women
Authors: Hug Evelin , Winzeler Katja , Pfaltz Monique C. , Cajochen Christian , Bader Klaus
Published: February 2019

This study aimed at examining potential associations of mid sleep timing (chronotype) and social jetlag with intake of alcohol and caffeine, depressive symptoms, and body mass index (BMI) in a sample of healthy young women. Furthermore, it was explored whether these behavioral sleep–wake parameters are associated with adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). In total, 146 women (21.7 ± 1.7 years) took part in a two-week assessment on daily consumption of alcohol and caffeine. They completed questionnaires on ACEs, chronotype, sleep quality and depressive symptoms. Partial correlations and Chi-Square tests were calculated to assess the relationships between the assessed variables. Results show an association on a trend level for chronotype (r = 0.162, p = 0.053) and a significant association for social jetlag (r = 0.169, p = 0.044) with average alcohol intake. Furthermore, participants with above-median ACEs were more likely to be late chronotypes compared to the below-median group (X2(2) = 6.595, p = 0.037). We could replicate the association among late chronotype, social jetlag and higher alcohol consumption in a sample of healthy, young women. Furthermore, our results suggest a relationship between ACEs and chronotype. Although it can be hypothesized that it is rather ACEs that have an impact on chronotype, further research is needed to explore this relationship more and to shed more light on the direction of the association between chronotype and ACEs as well as on underlying mechanisms and possible mediators.
Designing a Laboratory Bioassay for Evaluating the Efficacy of Antifouling Paints on Amphibalanus amphitrite Using a Flow-Through System
Authors: Kojima Ryuji , Kobayashi Seiji , Matsumura Kiyotaka , Satuito Cyril Glenn Perez , Seki Yasuyuki , Ando Hirotomo , Katsuyama Ichiro
Published: February 2019

With the aim of establishing a protocol for evaluating the efficacy of antifouling paints on different organisms, a flow-through laboratory test using triangular boxes was developed for cyprids of the barnacle Amphibalanus (=Balanus) amphitrite. Six different formulations of antifouling paints were prepared in increasing content (0 to 40 wt.%) of Cu2O, which is the most commonly used antifouling substance, and each formulation of paint was coated on one surface of each test plate. The test plates were aged for 45 days by rotating them at a speed of 10 knots inside a cylinder drum with continuously flowing seawater. The settlement behavior of 3-day-old cyprids released inside triangular boxes made from the test plates was observed. A decreasing number of juveniles settled on surfaces of test plates that were coated with paint containing more than 30 wt.% of Cu2O. Results of the laboratory bioassays were consistent with those from the field experiments.
Thermodynamics and Magnetic Excitations in Quantum Spin Trimers: Applications for the Understanding of Molecular Magnets
Authors: Brumfield Amelia , Haraldsen Jason T.
Published: February 2019

Molecular magnets provide a playground of interesting phenomena and interactions that have direct applications for quantum computation and magnetic systems. A general understanding of the underlying geometries for molecular magnets therefore generates a consistent foundation for which further analysis and understanding can be established. Using a Heisenberg spin-spin exchange Hamiltonian, we investigate the evolution of magnetic excitations and thermodynamics of quantum spin isosceles trimers (two sides J and one side α J ) with increasing spin. For the thermodynamics, we produce exact general solutions for the energy eigenstates and spin decomposition, which can be used to determine the heat capacity and magnetic susceptibility quickly. We show how the thermodynamic properties change with α coupling parameters and how the underlying ground state governs the Schottky anomaly. Furthermore, we investigate the microscopic excitations by examining the inelastic neutron scattering excitations and structure factors. Here, we illustrate how the individual dimer subgeometry governs the ability for probing underlying excitations. Overall, we feel these calculations can help with the general analysis and characterization of molecular magnet systems.
Does Oil Price Drive World Food Prices? Evidence from Linear and Nonlinear ARDL Modeling
Authors: Zmami Mourad , Ben-Salha Ousama
Published: February 2019

The macroeconomic outcomes of oil price fluctuations have been at the forefront of the debate among economists, financial analysts and policymakers over the last decades. Among others, the oil price–food price nexus has particularly received a great deal of attention. While an abundant body of literature has focused on the linear relationship between oil price and food price, little is known regarding the nonlinear interactions between them. The aim of this paper is to conduct aggregated and disaggregated analyses of the impact of the Brent and West Texas Intermediate (WTI) oil prices on international food prices between January 1990 and October 2017. The empirical investigation is based on the estimation of linear and nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) models. The findings confirm the presence of asymmetries since the overall food price is only affected by positive shocks on oil price in the long-run. While the dairy price index reacts to both positive and negative changes of oil price, the impact of oil price increases is found to be greater. Finally, the asymmetry is present for some other agricultural commodity prices in the short-run, since they respond only to oil price decreases. All in all, the study concludes that studies assuming the presence of a symmetric impact of oil price on food price might be flawed. The findings are important for the undertaking of future studies and the design of international and national policies in the fight against food insecurity.
Design of A Series Resonant Converter GMAW Welding Machine by Using the Harmonic Current Technique for Power Transfer
Authors: Altanneh Nabeel Sabri , Uslu Akin , Aydemir Mehmet Timur
Published: February 2019

This paper proposes the use of a control algorithm that can yield soft switching both at turn-on and turn-off of the inverter of series resonance converter (SRC) gas metal arc welding (GMAW) machines. The technique takes advantage of the band-pass filter characteristics of the SRC and controls the power by using switching frequencies that are subharmonics of the resonance frequency. The design and the experimental results for a 5 kW prototype system are given to prove that the algorithm can be used in GMAW systems.
On-Board Cold Thermal Energy Storage System for Hydrogen Fueling Process
Authors: Kim Young Min , Shin Dong Gil , Kim Chang Gi
Published: February 2019

The hydrogen storage pressure in fuel cell vehicles has been increased from 35 MPa to 70 MPa in order to accommodate longer driving range. On the downside, such pressure increase results in significant temperature rise inside the hydrogen tank during fast filling at a fueling station, which may pose safety issues. Installation of a chiller often mitigates this concern because it cools the hydrogen gas before its deposition into the tank. To address both the energy efficiency improvement and safety concerns, this paper proposed an on-board cold thermal energy storage (CTES) system, cooled by expanded hydrogen. During the driving cycle, the proposed system uses an expander, instead of a pressure regulator, to generate additional power and cold hydrogen gas. Moreover, CTES is equipped with phase change materials (PCM) to recover the cold energy of the expanded hydrogen gas, which is later used in the next filling to cool the high-pressure hydrogen gas from the fueling station.
Torrefaction of Sewage Sludge: Kinetics and Fuel Properties of Biochars
Authors: Pulka Jakub , Manczarski Piotr , Koziel Jacek A. , Białowiec Andrzej
Published: February 2019

We propose a ‘Waste to Carbon’ thermal transformation of sewage sludge (SS) via torrefaction to a valuable product (fuel) with a high content of carbon. One important, technological aspect to develop this concept is the determination of activation energy needed for torrefaction. Thus, this research aimed to evaluate the kinetics of SS torrefaction and determine the effects of process temperature on fuel properties of torrefied products (biochars). Torrefaction was performed using high ash content SS at six (200~300 °C) temperatures and 60 min residence (process) time. Mass loss during torrefaction ranged from 10~20%. The resulting activation energy for SS torrefaction was ~12.007 kJ·mol−1. Initial (unprocessed) SS higher heating value (HHV) was 13.5 MJ·kg−1. However, the increase of torrefaction temperature decreased HHV from 13.4 to 3.8 MJ·kg−1. Elemental analysis showed a significant decrease of the H/C ratio that occurred during torrefaction, while the O/C ratio fluctuated with much smaller differences. Although the activation energy was significantly lower compared with lignocellulosic materials, low-temperature SS torrefaction technology could be explored for further SS stabilization and utilization (e.g., dewatering and hygienization).
Thermodynamic and Technical Issues of Hydrogen and Methane-Hydrogen Mixtures Pipeline Transmission
Authors: Kuczyński Szymon , Łaciak Mariusz , Olijnyk Andrzej , Szurlej Adam , Włodek Tomasz
Published: February 2019

The use of hydrogen as a non-emission energy carrier is important for the innovative development of the power-generation industry. Transmission pipelines are the most efficient and economic method of transporting large quantities of hydrogen in a number of variants. A comprehensive hydraulic analysis of hydrogen transmission at a mass flow rate of 0.3 to 3.0 kg/s (volume flow rates from 12,000 Nm3/h to 120,000 Nm3/h) was performed. The methodology was based on flow simulation in a pipeline for assumed boundary conditions as well as modeling of fluid thermodynamic parameters for pure hydrogen and its mixtures with methane. The assumed outlet pressure was 24 bar (g). The pipeline diameter and required inlet pressure were calculated for these parameters. The change in temperature was analyzed as a function of the pipeline length for a given real heat transfer model; the assumed temperatures were 5 and 25 ∘ C. The impact of hydrogen on natural gas transmission is another important issue. The performed analysis revealed that the maximum participation of hydrogen in natural gas should not exceed 15%–20%, or it has a negative impact on natural gas quality. In the case of a mixture of 85% methane and 15% hydrogen, the required outlet pressure is 10% lower than for pure methane. The obtained results present various possibilities of pipeline transmission of hydrogen at large distances. Moreover, the changes in basic thermodynamic parameters have been presented as a function of pipeline length for the adopted assumptions.
Wide Bandwidth Control for Multi-Parallel Grid-Connected Inverters with Harmonic Compensation
Authors: Yu Jingrong , Deng Limin , Song Dongran , Pei Maolin
Published: February 2019

This paper proposes a virtual impedance-based bandwidth control method for multi-parallel harmonic-compensation grid-connected inverters (HCGIs). Firstly, the influence of the resonance points caused by the interaction of multiple HCGIs on the control bandwidth is analyzed, and the analysis result shows that the control bandwidth becomes narrow due to the appearance of a new resonance point. Then, to increase the control bandwidth of multi-parallel HCGIs, six different types of virtual impedance circuits are constructed and compared, and the bandwidth control method based on virtual impedance by capacitor voltage feedback is proposed. Following that, the relationship between feedback coefficient and bandwidth is established, the design approach of parameters for the proposed method is presented. Finally, the proposed method is confirmed by the simulation and experimental tests. The simulation and experimental results show that the proposed control method can effectively shift resonance frequencies right to solve the issue of control bandwidth reduction in multi-parallel HCGIs systems, while without affecting the low-frequency harmonic current compensation.
Performance and Microbial Community Dynamics in Anaerobic Digestion of Waste Activated Sludge: Impact of Immigration
Authors: Shin Juhee , Cho Si-Kyung , Lee Joonyeob , Hwang Kwanghyun , Chung Jae Woo , Jang Hae-Nam , Shin Seung Gu
Published: February 2019

Waste activated sludge (WAS) is a byproduct of municipal wastewater treatment. WAS contains a large proportion of inactive microbes, so when it is used as a substrate for anaerobic digestion (AD), their presence can interfere with monitoring of active microbial populations. To investigate how influent cells affect the active and inactive microbial communities during digestion of WAS, we operated model mesophilic bioreactors with conventional conditions. Under six different hydraulic retention times (HRTs; 25, 23, 20, 17, 14, and 11.5 d), the chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal and CH4 production of the AD were within a typical range for mesophilic sludge digesters. In the main bacteria were proteobacteria, bacteroidetes, and firmicutes in both the WAS and the bioreactors, while in main archaeal methanogen group was Methanosarcinales in the WAS and methanomicrobiales in the bioreactors. Of the 106 genera identified, the estimated net growth rates were negative in 72 and positive in 34. The genera with negative growth included many aerobic taxa. The genera with positive growth rates included methanogens and syntrophs. In some taxa, the net growth rate could be positive or negative, depending on HRT, so their abundance was also affected by HRT. This study gives insights into the microbial dynamics of a conventional sludge anaerobic digester by distinguishing potentially active (growing) and inactive (non-growing, dormant) microbes and by correlating population dynamics with process parameters.
Affordable Production of Antioxidant Aqueous Solutions by Hydrodynamic Cavitation Processing of Silver Fir (Abies alba Mill.) Needles
Authors: Albanese Lorenzo , Bonetti Alessandra , D’Acqui Luigi , Meneguzzo Francesco , Zabini Federica
Published: February 2019

Extracts from parts of coniferous trees have received increased interest due to their valuable bioactive compounds and properties, useful for plenty of experimental and consolidated applications, in fields comprising nutraceutics, cosmetics, pharmacology, food preservation, and stimulation of plant growth. However, the variability of the bioactive properties, the complexity of the extraction methods, and the use of potentially harmful synthetic chemicals, still represent an obstacle to the spreading of such valuable natural compounds. Hydrodynamic cavitation is emerging as a promising innovative technique for the extraction of precious food components and by-products from waste raw material of the agro-food production chain, which can improve processing efficiency, reduce resource consumption, and produce healthy, high-quality products. In this study, a process based on controlled hydrodynamic cavitation was applied for the first time to the production of aqueous solutions of silver fir (Abies alba Mill.) needles with enhanced antioxidant activity. The observed levels of the in vitro antioxidant activity, comparable or higher than those found for reference substances, pure extracts, and other water extracts and beverages, highlight the very good potential of the hydrodynamic cavitation (HC) process for the creation of solvent-free, aqueous solutions endowed with bioactive compounds extracted from silver fir needles.
Recovering Past Reflections: X-ray Fluorescence Imaging of Electrocleaned 19th Century Daguerreotypes
Authors: Kozachuk Madalena S. , Sham Tsun-Kong , Martin Ronald R. , Nelson Andrew J. , Coulthard Ian , Smieska Louisa , Woll Arthur R.
Published: February 2019

The first commercially viable photographic image, the daguerreotype, captured images for a span of approximately 20 years (1839–1860). DeDterioration now disfigures many of these valuable images. One proposed restoration method is an electrochemical process. However, its safety and effectiveness are still under debate within the conservation community as the effects of this treatment, and its physical and chemical impact on the daguerreotype image, have not yet been analyzed in depth. This study used synchrotron-based micro-X-ray fluorescence to map the elemental distribution pre- and post-electrocleaning on 19th century daguerreotypes using both soft and hard incident X-rays. X-ray absorption spectroscopy was used to probe local chemistry before and after cleaning. Two different electro-treatment methods were compared: the original method proposed by Barger and a second put forward by Wei. When used correctly, both processes significantly reduced the S and Cl surface contamination without dulling the surface. However, both electrochemical methods used in this study resulted in a loss of Hg and Au from the surface. In all cases, the Hg distribution tracks with image particle density allowing the retrieval of full portraits from entirely corroded daguerreotypes, suggesting that Hg concentration may be a useful proxy for the original image.
Enteric Pathogen Diversity in Infant Foods in Low-Income Neighborhoods of Kisumu, Kenya
Authors: Tsai Kevin , Simiyu Sheillah , Mumma Jane , Aseyo Rose Evalyne , Cumming Oliver , Dreibelbis Robert , Baker Kelly K.
Published: February 2019

Pediatric diarrheal disease remains the second most common cause of preventable illness and death among children under the age of five, especially in low and middle-income countries (LMICs). However, there is limited information regarding the role of food in pathogen transmission in LMICs. For this study, we examined the frequency of enteric pathogen occurrence and co-occurrence in 127 infant weaning foods in Kisumu, Kenya, using a multi-pathogen PCR diagnostic tool, and assessed household food hygiene risk factors for contamination. Bacterial, viral, and protozoan enteric pathogen DNA and RNA were detected in 62% of the infant weaning food samples collected, with 37% of foods containing more than one pathogen type. Multivariable generalized linear mixed model analysis indicated type of infant food best explained the presence and diversity of enteric pathogens in infant food, while most household food hygiene risk factors considered in this study were not significantly associated with pathogen contamination. Specifically, cow’s milk was significantly more likely to contain a pathogen (adjusted risk ratio = 14.4; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.78–116.1) and more likely to have higher number of enteric pathogen species (adjusted risk ratio = 2.35; 95% CI 1.67–3.29) than porridge. Our study demonstrates that infants in this low-income urban setting are frequently exposed to diarrhoeagenic pathogens in food and suggests that interventions are needed to prevent foodborne transmission of pathogens to infants.
The Role of Canceled Warrants in the LME Market
Authors: Park Jaehwan
Published: February 2019

This article visits the question of whether canceled warrants (CWs) have a positive effect on LME metal prices. To examine this question carefully, a regression model is applied. This paper finds a statistically significant positive link between CWs and LME metal prices, including aluminum, zinc, tin, and nickel. However, other metals such as copper and lead are not statistically significant. The second objective of the study is to identify the dynamic response of metal price returns for aluminum, zinc, tin, and nickel to an innovation in the CWs using VAR. It is found that the positive impact of the CWs on metal returns is transitory.
AMP-Activated Protein Kinase Signalling
Authors: Neumann Dietbert , Viollet Benoit
Published: February 2019

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) regulates energy homeostasis in eukaryotic cells and organisms [...]
IL-10 Could Play a Role in the Interrelation between Diabetes Mellitus and Osteoarthritis
Authors: Silawal Sandeep , Willauschus Maximilian , Schulze-Tanzil Gundula , Gögele Clemens , Geßlein Markus , Schwarz Silke
Published: February 2019

The association between osteoarthritis (OA), obesity and metabolic syndrome suggests an interrelation between OA and diabetes mellitus (DM). Little is known about the role of anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-10 in the interrelation between OA and DM. Hence, the effects of IL-10 under hyperglycemia (HG) and hyperinsulinemia (HI) in human articular chondrocytes (hAC) and chondrosarcoma cell line Okayama University Medical School (OUMS)-27 were examined. HAC and OUMS-27, cultured in normoglycemic (NG) and HG conditions were stimulated with insulin and/or IL-10. Cell survival, metabolic activity, proliferation and extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis were immunocytochemically examined. No significant differences in vitality of hAC neither in pure NG (NGw/o) nor HG (HGw/o) conditions were found. Applying HI and/or IL-10 in both conditions reduced significantly the vitality of hAC but not of OUMS-27. HG impaired significantly hAC metabolism. When combined with HI + IL-10 or IL-10 alone it decreased also significantly hAC proliferation compared to NGw/o. In OUMS-27 it induced only a trend of impaired proliferation compared to NGw/o. hAC but not OUMS-27 reduced significantly their collagen type (col) I, SOX9 and proteoglycan (PG) synthesis in HG combined with HI +/− IL-10 compared to NGw/o. IL-10 could not moderate HI and HG effects. In contrast to hAC OUMS-27 showed limited sensitivity as DM model.
Developmental Transformation and Reduction of Connective Cavities within the Subchondral Bone
Authors: Taheri Shahed , Winkler Thomas , Schenk Lia Sabrina , Neuerburg Carl , Baumbach Sebastian Felix , Zustin Jozef , Lehmann Wolfgang , Schilling Arndt F.
Published: February 2019

It is widely accepted that the subchondral bone (SCB) plays a crucial role in the physiopathology of osteoarthritis (OA), although its contribution is still debated. Much of the pre-clinical research on the role of SCB is concentrated on comparative evaluations of healthy vs. early OA or early OA vs. advanced OA cases, while neglecting how pure maturation could change the SCB’s microstructure. To assess the transformations of the healthy SCB from young age to early adulthood, we examined the microstructure and material composition of the medial condyle of the femur in calves (three months) and cattle (18 months) for the calcified cartilage (CC) and the subchondral bone plate (SCBP). The entire subchondral zone (SCZ) was significantly thicker in cattle compared to calves, although the proportion of the CC and SCBP thicknesses were relatively constant. The trabecular number (Tb.N.) and the connectivity density (Conn.D) were significantly higher in the deeper region of the SCZ, while the bone volume fraction (BV/TV), and the degree of anisotropy (DA) were more affected by age rather than the region. The mineralization increased within the first 250 µm of the SCZ irrespective of sample type, and became stable thereafter. Cattle exhibited higher mineralization than calves at all depths, with a mean Ca/P ratio of 1.59 and 1.64 for calves and cattle, respectively. Collectively, these results indicate that the SCZ is highly dynamic at early age, and CC is the most dynamic layer of the SCZ.
The Metallome of Lung Cancer and its Potential Use as Biomarker
Authors: Callejón-Leblic Belén , Arias-Borrego Ana , Pereira-Vega Antonio , Gómez-Ariza José Luis , García-Barrera Tamara
Published: February 2019

Carcinogenesis is a very complex process in which metals have been found to be critically involved. In this sense, a disturbed redox status and metal dyshomeostasis take place during the onset and progression of cancer, and it is well-known that trace elements participate in the activation or inhibition of enzymatic reactions and metalloproteins, in which they usually participate as cofactors. Until now, the role of metals in cancer have been studied as an effect, establishing that cancer onset and progression affects the disturbance of the natural chemical form of the essential elements in the metabolism. However, it has also been studied as a cause, giving insights related to the high exposure of metals giving a place to the carcinogenic process. On the other hand, the chemical species of the metal or metallobiomolecule is very important, since it finally affects the biological activity or the toxicological potential of the element and their mobility across different biological compartments. Moreover, the importance of metal homeostasis and metals interactions in biology has also been demonstrated, and the ratios between some elements were found to be different in cancer patients; however, the interplay of elements is rarely reported. This review focuses on the critical role of metals in lung cancer, which is one of the most insidious forms of cancer, with special attention to the analytical approaches and pitfalls to extract metals and their species from tissues and biofluids, determining the ratios of metals, obtaining classification profiles, and finally defining the metallome of lung cancer.
The Astrocytic cAMP Pathway in Health and Disease
Authors: Zhou Zhiwen , Ikegaya Yuji , Koyama Ryuta
Published: February 2019

Astrocytes are major glial cells that play critical roles in brain homeostasis. Abnormalities in astrocytic functions can lead to brain disorders. Astrocytes also respond to injury and disease through gliosis and immune activation, which can be both protective and detrimental. Thus, it is essential to elucidate the function of astrocytes in order to understand the physiology of the brain to develop therapeutic strategies against brain diseases. Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) is a major second messenger that triggers various downstream cellular machinery in a wide variety of cells. The functions of astrocytes have also been suggested as being regulated by cAMP. Here, we summarize the possible roles of cAMP signaling in regulating the functions of astrocytes. Specifically, we introduce the ways in which cAMP pathways are involved in astrocyte functions, including (1) energy supply, (2) maintenance of the extracellular environment, (3) immune response, and (4) a potential role as a provider of trophic factors, and we discuss how these cAMP-regulated processes can affect brain functions in health and disease.
The Chemical Transformation of the Cellular Toxin INT (2-(4-Iodophenyl)-3-(4-Nitrophenyl)-5-(Phenyl) Tetrazolium Chloride) as an Indicator of Prior Respiratory Activity in Aquatic Bacteria
Authors: Villegas-Mendoza Josué , Cajal-Medrano Ramón , Maske Helmut
Published: February 2019

In the ocean, the prokaryote respiration rates dominate the oxidation of organics, but the measurements may be biased due to pre-incubation size filtration and long incubation times. To overcome these difficulties, proxies for microbial respiration rates have been proposed, such as the in vitro and in vivo estimation of electron transport system rates (ETS) based on the reduction of tetrazolium salts. INT (2-(4-Iodophenyl)-3-(4-Nitrophenyl)-5-(Phenyl) Tetrazolium Chloride) is the most commonly applied tetrazolium salt, although it is toxic on time scales of less than 1 h for prokaryotes. This toxicity invalidates the interpretation of the rate of in vivo INT reduction to formazan as a proxy for oxygen consumption rates. We found that with aquatic bacteria, the amount of reduced INT (F; µmol/L formazan) showed excellent relation with the respiration rates prior to INT addition (R; O2 µmol/L/hr), using samples of natural marine microbial communities and cultures of bacteria (V. harveyi) in batch and continuous cultures. We are here relating a physiological rate with the reductive potential of the poisoned cell with units of concentration. The respiration rate in cultures is well related to the cellular potential of microbial cells to reduce INT, despite the state of intoxication.
Neonicotinoid Insecticides Alter the Transcriptome of Soybean and Decrease Plant Resistance
Authors: Wulff Jason A. , Kiani Mahnaz , Regan Karly , Eubanks Micky D. , Szczepaniec Adrianna
Published: February 2019

Neonicotinoids are widely used systemic insecticides that have been associated with spider mite outbreaks on diverse plants. These insecticides have complex effects on plant physiology, which have been speculated to drive enhanced performance of spider mites. We used RNA-Seq to explore how neonicotinoids modify gene expression in soybean thereby lowering plant resistance. We exposed soybean (Glycine max L.) to two neonicotinoid insecticides, thiamethoxam applied to seeds and imidacloprid applied as a soil drench, and we exposed a subset of these plants to spider mites (Tetranychus cinnabarinus). Applications of both insecticides downregulated genes involved in plant—pathogen interactions, phytohormone pathways, phenylpropanoid pathway, and cell wall biosynthesis. These effects were especially pronounced in plants exposed to thiamethoxam. Introduction of spider mites restored induction of genes in these pathways in plants treated with imidacloprid, while expression of genes involved in phenylpropanoid synthesis, in particular, remained downregulated in thiamethoxam-treated plants. Our outcomes indicate that both insecticides suppress genes in pathways relevant to plant–arthropod interactions, and suppression of genes involved in cell wall synthesis may explain lower plant resistance to spider mites, cell-content feeders. These effects appear to be particularly significant when plants are exposed to neonicotinoids applied to soybean seeds.
Engineering of Fatty Acid Synthases (FASs) to Boost the Production of Medium-Chain Fatty Acids (MCFAs) in Mucor circinelloides
Authors: Hussain Syed Ammar , Hameed Ahsan , Khan Md. Ahsanul Kabir , Zhang Yao , Zhang Huaiyuan , Garre Victoriano , Song Yuanda
Published: February 2019

Increasing energy demands and health-related concerns worldwide have motivated researchers to adopt diverse strategies to improve medium-chain fatty acid (MCFA) biosynthesis for use in the functional food and aviation industries. The abundance of naturally produced MCFAs from botanical sources (i.e., coconut fruit/seeds and palm tree) has been observed to be insufficient compared with the various microorganisms used to cope with industrial demands. Mucor circinelloides is one of many promising microorganisms; it exhibits diverse biotechnological importance ranging from the production of functional lipids to applications in the manufacture of bio-fuel. Thus, research was conducted to acquire the desired elevated amounts of MCFAs (i.e., C8–C12) from metabolically engineered strains of M. circinelloides M65. To achieve this goal, four different acyl-acyl carrier protein (ACP) thioesterase (TE)-encoding genes exhibiting a substrate preference for medium-chain acyl-ACP molecules were expressed in M. circinelloides M65, resulting in the generation of C8–C12 fatty acids. Among all the engineered strains, M65-TE-03 and M65-TE-04 demonstrated the highest production of non-native C8–C10 and C12 fatty acids, respectively, in comparison to the control. These recombinant strains biosynthesized MCFAs de novo within the range from 28 to 46% (i.e., 1.14 to 2.77 g/L) of total cell lipids. Moreover, the reduction in chain length eventually resulted in a 1.5–1.75-fold increase in total lipid productivity in the engineered strains. The MCFAs were also found to be integrated into all lipid classes. This work illustrates how the integration of heterologous enzymes in M. circinelloides can offer a novel opportunity to edit the fatty acid synthases (FAS) complex, resulting in increased production of microbial MFCAs.
Sinorhizobium fredii HH103 RirA Is Required for Oxidative Stress Resistance and Efficient Symbiosis with Soybean
Authors: Crespo-Rivas Juan Carlos , Navarro-Gómez Pilar , Alias-Villegas Cynthia , Shi Jie , Zhen Tao , Niu Yanbo , Cuéllar Virginia , Moreno Javier , Cubo Teresa , Vinardell José María , Ruiz-Sainz José Enrique , Acosta-Jurado Sebastián , Soto María José
Published: February 2019

Members of Rhizobiaceae contain a homologue of the iron-responsive regulatory protein RirA. In different bacteria, RirA acts as a repressor of iron uptake systems under iron-replete conditions and contributes to ameliorate cell damage during oxidative stress. In Rhizobium leguminosarum and Sinorhizobium meliloti, mutations in rirA do not impair symbiotic nitrogen fixation. In this study, a rirA mutant of broad host range S. fredii HH103 has been constructed (SVQ780) and its free-living and symbiotic phenotypes evaluated. No production of siderophores could be detected in either the wild-type or SVQ780. The rirA mutant exhibited a growth advantage under iron-deficient conditions and hypersensitivity to hydrogen peroxide in iron-rich medium. Transcription of rirA in HH103 is subject to autoregulation and inactivation of the gene upregulates fbpA, a gene putatively involved in iron transport. The S. fredii rirA mutant was able to nodulate soybean plants, but symbiotic nitrogen fixation was impaired. Nodules induced by the mutant were poorly infected compared to those induced by the wild-type. Genetic complementation reversed the mutant’s hypersensitivity to H2O2, expression of fbpA, and symbiotic deficiency in soybean plants. This is the first report that demonstrates a role for RirA in the Rhizobium-legume symbiosis.
Proteomics Analysis of E. angustifolia Seedlings Inoculated with Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi under Salt Stress
Authors: Jia Tingting , Wang Jian , Chang Wei , Fan Xiaoxu , Sui Xin , Song Fuqiang
Published: February 2019

To reveal the mechanism of salinity stress alleviation by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), we investigated the growth parameter, soluble sugar, soluble protein, and protein abundance pattern of E. angustifolia seedlings that were cultured under salinity stress (300 mmol/L NaCl) and inoculated by Rhizophagus irregularis (RI). Furthermore, a label-free quantitative proteomics approach was used to reveal the stress-responsive proteins in the leaves of E. angustifolia. The result indicates that the abundance of 75 proteins in the leaves was significantly influenced when E. angustifolia was inoculated with AMF, which were mainly involved in the metabolism, signal transduction, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging. Furthermore, we identified chorismate mutase, elongation factor mitochondrial, peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase, calcium-dependent kinase, glutathione S-transferase, glutathione peroxidase, NADH dehydrogenase, alkaline neutral invertase, peroxidase, and other proteins closely related to the salt tolerance process. The proteomic results indicated that E. angustifolia seedlings inoculated with AMF increased the secondary metabolism level of phenylpropane metabolism, enhanced the signal transduction of Ca2+ and ROS scavenging ability, promoted the biosynthesis of protein, accelerated the protein folding, and inhibited the degradation of protein under salt stress. Moreover, AMF enhanced the synthesis of ATP and provided sufficient energy for plant cell activity. This study implied that symbiosis of halophytes and AMF has potential as an application for the improvement of saline-alkali soils.
Newborn Screening for Sickle Cell Disease in Europe
Authors: Daniel Yvonne , Elion Jacques , Allaf Bichr , Badens Catherine , Bouva Marelle J. , Brincat Ian , Cela Elena , Coppinger Cathy , de Montalembert Mariane , Gulbis Béatrice , Henthorn Joan , Ketelslegers Olivier , McMahon Corrina , Streetly Allison , Colombatti Raffaella , Lobitz Stephan
Published: February 2019

The history of newborn screening (NBS) for sickle cell disease (SCD) in Europe goes back almost 40 years. However, most European countries have not established it to date. The European screening map is surprisingly heterogenous. The first countries to introduce sickle cell screening on a national scale were France and England. The French West Indies started to screen their newborns for SCD as early as 1983/84. To this day, all countries of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland have added SCD as a target disease to their NBS programs. The Netherlands, Spain and Malta also have national programs. Belgium screens regionally in the Brussels and Liège regions, Ireland has been running a pilot for many years that has become quasi-official. However, the Belgian and Irish programs are not publicly funded. Italy and Germany have completed several pilot studies but are still in the preparatory phase of national NBS programs for SCD, although both countries have well-established concepts for metabolic and endocrine disorders. This article will give a brief overview of the situation in Europe and put a focus on the programs of the two pioneers of the continent, England and France.
ONYA—The Wellbeing Game: How to Use Gamification to Promote Wellbeing
Authors: Tolks Daniel , Sailer Michael , Dadaczynski Kevin , Lampert Claudia , Huberty Julia , Paulus Peter , Horstmann David
Published: February 2019

The Wellbeing Game uses game design elements to promote wellbeing. Players document their daily activities in the game and categorize them to one or more of five wellbeing-related factors. The users join teams and can create team events to work together and improve their wellbeing status. The present study aims to review the application and the theoretical base of ‘The Wellbeing Game’, to adapt it to the German context, and to evaluate its health effects in different settings. Additional aims are to analyze the current state of research regarding the links between health, wellbeing, and gamification and to identify crucial game design elements that have to be implemented in the application in order to address the needs of competence, autonomy, and social relatedness according to the self-determination theory.
Silicon Photomultipliers: Technology Optimizations for Ultraviolet, Visible and Near-Infrared Range
Authors: Acerbi Fabio , Paternoster Giovanni , Capasso Massimo , Marcante Marco , Mazzi Alberto , Regazzoni Veronica , Zorzi Nicola , Gola Alberto
Published: February 2019

Silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs) are single-photon sensitive solid-state detectors that are becoming popular for several applications, thanks to massive performance improvements over the last years. Starting as a replacement for the photomultiplier tube (PMT), they are now used in medical applications, big high-energy physics experiments, nuclear physics experiments, spectroscopy, biology and light detection and ranging (LIDAR) applications. Due to different requirements in terms of detection efficiency, noise, etc., several optimizations have been introduced by the manufacturers; for example, spectral sensitivity has been optimized for visible light, near ultraviolet, vacuum ultraviolet, and near infrared light. Each one of them require specific processes and structural optimization. We present in this paper recent improvements in SiPM performance, owing to a higher cell fill-factor, lower noise, improved silicon materials, and deep trench isolation. We describe issues related to the characterization of analog SiPM, particularly due to the different sources of correlated noise, which have to be distinguished from each other and from the primary pulses. We also describe particular analyses and optimizations conducted for specific applications like the readout of liquid noble gas scintillators, requiring these detectors to operate at cryogenic temperatures.
VisKit: Web-Based Interactive IoT Management with Deep Visual Object Detection
Authors: Hwang Chae-Eun , Lee Sung-Hun , Jeong Jin-Woo
Published: February 2019

Various technologies and standards for the Internet of Things (IoT) have defined the way devices should interact with each other to provide an intelligent IoT service to users in an efficient manner. Although the usability of system interface between the platform and users is one of the key factors for the success of IoT ecosystems, the manner in which IoT platforms should interact with users has not been well studied. Current IoT platforms provide a simple list-based interface to manage devices, which result in the degradation of their usability as the number of devices increases. In this paper, we propose an interactive web-based IoT management system where deep object detection techniques are adopted to facilitate user’s device selection and management. The proposed system automatically recognizes the device type from video streams and accordingly generates smart controllers. The users can choose a device by touching an object in the video stream and use a smart controller to control the selected device. Finally, we show the feasibility of the proposed system through the implementation of a prototype which demonstrates a set of user scenarios.
Novel Porous Brain Electrodes for Augmented Local Field Potential Signal Detection
Authors: Lee Sung Hyun , Lee Kyeong-Seok , Sorcar Saurav , Razzaq Abdul , Lee Maan-Gee , In Su-Il
Published: February 2019

Intracerebral local field potential (LFP) measurements are commonly used to monitor brain activity, providing insight into the flow of information across neural networks. Herein we describe synthesis and application of a neural electrode possessing a nano/micro-scale porous surface topology for improved LFP measurement. Compared with conventional brain electrodes, the porous electrodes demonstrate higher measured amplitudes with lower noise levels.