bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protective Effect of Resveratrol Improves Systemic Inflammation Responses in LPS-Injected Lambs
Authors: Liang Yanping , Zhou Jianwei , Ji Kaixi , Liu Hu , Degen Allan , Zhai Manjun , Jiao Dan , Guo Junqiang , Zhao Zongsheng , Yang Guo
Published: October 2019

Highly intensive livestock production often causes immune stress to animals, which makes them more susceptible to infections. The aim of this study was to examine whether resveratrol (Res) alleviates inflammation in lambs. In Experiment 1, 16 male lambs were injected with lipopolysaccharides (LPS) at an initial dose of 0.25, 1.25, and 2.5 μg/kg body weight (BW) for 9 days. Average daily gain and blood parameters were measured and clinical symptoms were recorded. In Experiment 2, 20 male lambs were injected intravenously with LPS (0 mg/kg) + Res (0 mg), LPS (2.5 μg /kg) + Res (0 mg, 82.5 mg, 165 mg, 330 mg), 4 h after LPS injection. Jugular blood was collected from each lamb to determine white blood cell (WBC) counts and the expression of inflammatory genes. In Experiment 1, all LPS-treated lambs showed clinical signs of sickness including rhinorrhea, lethargy, and shivering, and systemic inflammatory responses of increased inflammatory genes levels and cortisol concentration. The lambs had increased respiratory and heart rates and rectal temperature and decreased average daily gain and feed intake. In Experiment 2, resveratrol significantly reduced WBCs and the expression levels of several genes associated with inflammation response (TLR4, NF-κB, c-jun) and inhibited the signaling cascades of NF-κB and MAPKs by down-regulating the expression levels of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-γ) induced by LPS. Resveratrol attenuated the LPS-evoked inflammatory responses in lambs by suppressing expression levels of inflammatory cytokines, and blocking NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways.
Sepsis and Nosocomial Infections: The Role of Medico-Legal Experts in Italy
Authors: Tattoli Lucia , Dell’Erba Alessandro , Ferorelli Davide , Gasbarro Annarita , Solarino Biagio
Published: October 2019

Sepsis is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. It is defined as the presence of a Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome, and it represents a significant burden for the healthcare system. This is particularly true when it is diagnosed in the setting of nosocomial infections, which are usually a matter of concern with regard to medical liability being correlated with increasing economic costs and people’s loss of trust in healthcare. Hence, the Italian governance promotes the clinical risk management with the aim of improving the quality and safety of healthcare services. In this context, the role of medico-legal experts working in a hospital setting is fundamental for performing autopsy to diagnose sepsis and link it with possible nosocomial infections. On the other hand, medico-legal experts are party to the clinical risk management assessment, and deal with malpractice cases and therefore contribute to formulating clinical guidelines and procedures for improving patient safety and healthcare providers’ work practices. Due to this scenario, the authors here discuss the role of medico-legal experts in Italy, focusing on sepsis and nosocomial infections.
Development of a Comprehensive Model for the Coulombic Efficiency and Capacity Fade of LiFePO4 Batteries under Different Aging Conditions
Authors: Kuo Ting-Jung
Published: October 2019

In this paper, a comprehensive model for LiFePO4 batteries is proposed to ensure high efficiency and safe operation. The proposed model has a direct correlation between its parameters and the electrochemical principles to estimate the state of charge (SoC) and the remaining capacity of the LiFePO4 battery. This model was based on a modified Thévenin circuit, Butler–Volmer kinetics, the Arrhenius equation, Peukert’s law, and a back propagation neural network (BPNN), which can be divided into two parts. The first part can be represented by the dual exponential terms, responsive to the Coulomb efficiency; the second part can be described by the BPNN, estimating the remaining capacity. The model successfully estimates the SoC of the batteries that were tested with an error of 1.55%. The results suggest that the model is able to accurately estimate the SoC and the remaining capacity in various environments (discharging C rates and temperatures).
Radioactivity and Heavy Metals Concentration in Italian (Calabrian) DOC Wines
Authors: Caridi Francesco , Pappaterra Domenico , Belmusto Giovanna , Messina Maurizio , Belvedere Alberto , D’Agostino Maurizio , Settineri Letteria
Published: October 2019

Wine is an alcoholic drink, largely used to accompany food, with a key role in the protective effects on cardiovascular diseases. This study was developed to investigate radioisotopes and heavy metal content of twenty red, rose and white Italian wines, belonging to controlled origin denomination (DOC) geographic areas of the Calabria region, south of Italy. High Purity Germanium (HPGe) Gamma Spectrometry was employed to evaluate anthropogenic (137Cs) and natural (40K) radionuclides specific activity. Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) was used to assess any possible heavy metals contamination by a comparison between Cu, Zn, Pb, B, As and Cd concentrations with the limits set by the Italian Legislation. Calculated annual effective doses due to the ingestion of investigated samples are under allowable levels (1 mSv/year), thus excluding the risk of ionizing radiation effects on humans. Regarding to the metals concentration, experimental results show that they are lower than the contamination threshold values, thus excluding their presence as pollutants.
Three Women Sharing a Mantle in 6th Century BCE Greek Vase-Painting: Plurality, Unity, Family, and Social Bond
Authors: Toillon Valérie
Published: October 2019

The motif of three women sharing the same mantle is pictured on about a dozen vases dating from the first half of the sixth century BCE. Among these vases, the so-called “François Vase” and a dinos signed by Sophilos (now in London, British Museum) are of particular interest. The wedding of Thetis and Peleus is pictured on both vases. This theme is well-adapted to the representation of a procession of deities in which the Charites, Horai, Moirai, and Muses take part. The main feature of these deities is a shared mantle, which covers and assembles them, emphasizing that these deities are plural by definition. The main study on this iconographical theme remains that by Buchholz, who documented most of the depictions of the “shared-mantle” in ancient Greek vase-painting and small terracottas. The shared-mantle motif has been interpreted successively as a reference to the sacred peplos (in relation to the wedding), a simplification from the painter to avoid painting all the mantles, a sign of emotional/sexual union, a religious gesture, and a depiction of choruses. The present study aims to consider in more detail the “shared-mantle” as an iconographic sign that involves the idea of community, shared identity, and emotional bond.
Targeting Apoptotic Pathways in Acute Myeloid Leukaemia
Authors: Sillar Jonathan R. , Enjeti Anoop K.
Published: October 2019

Acute Myeloid Leukaemia is a devastating disease that continues to have a poor outcome for the majority of patients. In recent years, however, a number of drugs have received FDA approval, following on from successful clinical trial results. This parallels the characterization of the molecular landscape of Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML) over the last decade, which has led to the development of drugs targeting newly identified recurring mutations. In addition, basic biological research into the pathobiology of AML has identified aberrant programmed cell death pathways in AML. Following on from successful outcomes in lymphoid malignancies, drugs targeting the B Cell Lymphoma 2 (BCL-2) family of anti-apoptotic proteins have been explored in AML. In this review, we will outline the preclinical and clinical work to date supporting the role of drugs targeting BCL-2, with Venetoclax being the most advanced to date. We will also highlight rationale combinations using Venetoclax, ongoing clinical trials and biomarkers of response identified from the early phase clinical trials performed.
Should All Patients With HR-Positive HER2-Negative Metastatic Breast Cancer Receive CDK 4/6 Inhibitor As First-Line Based Therapy? A Network Meta-Analysis of Data from the PALOMA 2, MONALEESA 2, MONALEESA 7, MONARCH 3, FALCON, SWOG and FACT Trials
Authors: Rossi Valentina , Berchialla Paola , Giannarelli Diana , Nisticò Cecilia , Ferretti Gianluigi , Gasparro Simona , Russillo Michelangelo , Catania Giovanna , Vigna Leonardo , Mancusi Rossella Letizia , Bria Emilio , Montemurro Filippo , Cognetti Francesco , Fabi Alessandra
Published: October 2019

Background: We aim to understand whether all patients with hormonal receptor (HR)-positive (+)/human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2)-negative (−) metastatic breast cancer (MBC) should receive cyclin D-dependent kinase (CDK) 4/6 inhibitor-based therapy as a first-line approach. Methods: A network meta-analysis (NMA) using the Bayesian hierarchical arm-based model, which provides the estimates for various effect sizes, were computed. Results: First-line treatment options in HR+/HER2− MBC, including CDK 4/6 inhibitors combined with aromatase inhibitors (AIs) or fulvestrant (F), showed a significantly longer progression-free survival (PFS) in comparison with AI monotherapy, with a total of 26% progression risk reduction. In the indirect comparison across the three classes of CDK 4/6 inhibitors and F endocrine-based therapies, the first strategy resulted in longer PFS, regardless of specific CDK 4/6 inhibitor (HR: 0.68; 95% CrI: 0.53–0.87 for palbociclib + AI, HR: 0.65; 95% CrI: 0.53–0.79 for ribociclib + AI, HR: 0.63; 95% CrI: 0.47–0.86 for abemaciclib + AI) and patient’s characteristics. Longer PFS was also found in patients with bone-only and soft tissues limited disease treated with CDK 4/6 inhibitors. Conclusions: CDK 4/6 inhibitors have similar efficacy when associated with an AI in the first-line treatment of HR+ MBC, and are superior to either F or AI monotherapy, regardless of any other patients or tumor characteristics.
Effective Delivery of Anti-Cancer Drug Molecules with Shape Transforming Liquid Metal Particles
Authors: Kim Dasom , Hwang Jangsun , Choi Yonghyun , Kwon Yejin , Jang Jaehee , Yoon Semi , Choi Jonghoon
Published: October 2019

Liquid metals are being studied intensively because of their potential as a drug delivery system. Eutectic gallium–indium (EGaIn) alloy liquid metals have a low melting point, low toxicity, and excellent tissue permeability. These properties may enable them to be vascular embolic agents that can be deformed by light or heat. In this study, we developed EGaIn particles that can deliver anticancer drugs to tumor cells in vitro and change their shapes in response to external stimuli. These particles were prepared by sonicating a solution containing EGaIn and amphiphilic lipids. The liquid metal (LM)/amphiphilic lipid (DSPC, 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholin) particles formed a vehicle for doxorubicin, an anticancer drug, which was released (up to 50%) when the shape of the particles was deformed by light or heat treatment. LM/DSPC particles are non-toxic and LM/DSPC/doxorubicin particles have anticancer effects (resulting in a cell viability of less than 50%). LM/DSPC/doxorubicin particles were also able to mimic blood vessel embolisms by modifying their shape using precisely controlled light and heat in engineered microchannels. The purpose of this study was to examine the potential of EGaIn materials to treat tumor tissues that cannot be removed by surgery.
Breast Cancer during Pregnancy—Current Paradigms, Paths to Explore
Authors: Alfasi Ayelet , Ben-Aharon Irit
Published: October 2019

Breast cancer is the most common form of malignancy in pregnant women. The prevalence of pregnancy-associated breast cancer (PABC) is up to 0.04% of pregnancies and is expected to rise in developed countries. PABC represents a unique clinical scenario which requires a delicate balance of risks and benefits for both maternal and fetal well-being. Currently, there is paucity of data regarding the short- and long-term outcomes of in-utero exposure to anti-neoplastic agents. In general, when possible, treatment for PABC should follow the same guidelines as in non-pregnant patients. Surgery, including sentinel lymph node biopsy, is possible during all trimesters of pregnancy. Radiotherapy is contraindicated during pregnancy, although it might be considered in highly selected patients based on risk–benefit assessment. Evidence supports that administration of chemotherapy may be safe during the second and third trimesters, with cessation of treatment three weeks prior to expected delivery. Currently, hormonal therapy and anti-HER2 agents are contraindicated during pregnancy and should be postponed until after delivery. Prematurity is associated with worse neonatal and long-term outcomes, and thus should be avoided. While current data on the long-term effects of anti-neoplastic treatments are reassuring, grade of evidence is lacking, hence additional large prospective studies with long-term follow-up are essential to rule out any treatment-induced adverse effects.
Artificial Intelligence in Lung Cancer Pathology Image Analysis
Authors: Wang Shidan , Yang Donghan M. , Rong Ruichen , Zhan Xiaowei , Fujimoto Junya , Liu Hongyu , Minna John , Wistuba Ignacio Ivan , Xie Yang , Xiao Guanghua
Published: October 2019

Objective: Accurate diagnosis and prognosis are essential in lung cancer treatment selection and planning. With the rapid advance of medical imaging technology, whole slide imaging (WSI) in pathology is becoming a routine clinical procedure. An interplay of needs and challenges exists for computer-aided diagnosis based on accurate and efficient analysis of pathology images. Recently, artificial intelligence, especially deep learning, has shown great potential in pathology image analysis tasks such as tumor region identification, prognosis prediction, tumor microenvironment characterization, and metastasis detection. Materials and Methods: In this review, we aim to provide an overview of current and potential applications for AI methods in pathology image analysis, with an emphasis on lung cancer. Results: We outlined the current challenges and opportunities in lung cancer pathology image analysis, discussed the recent deep learning developments that could potentially impact digital pathology in lung cancer, and summarized the existing applications of deep learning algorithms in lung cancer diagnosis and prognosis. Discussion and Conclusion: With the advance of technology, digital pathology could have great potential impacts in lung cancer patient care. We point out some promising future directions for lung cancer pathology image analysis, including multi-task learning, transfer learning, and model interpretation.
In Vivo Evidence for Voltage-Gated Sodium Channel Expression in Carcinomas and Potentiation of Metastasis
Authors: Djamgoz Mustafa B. A. , Fraser Scott P. , Brackenbury William J.
Published: October 2019

A wide body of evidence suggests that voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSCs) are expressed de novo in several human carcinomas where channel activity promotes a variety of cellular behaviours integral to the metastatic cascade. These include directional motility (including galvanotaxis), pH balance, extracellular proteolysis, and invasion. Contrary to the substantial in vitro data, however, evidence for VGSC involvement in the cancer process in vivo is limited. Here, we critically assess, for the first time, the available in vivo evidence, hierarchically from mRNA level to emerging clinical aspects, including protein-level studies, electrolyte content, animal tests, and clinical imaging. The evidence strongly suggests that different VGSC subtypes (mainly Nav1.5 and Nav1.7) are expressed de novo in human carcinoma tissues and generally parallel the situation in vitro. Consistent with this, tissue electrolyte (sodium) levels, quantified by clinical imaging, are significantly higher in cancer vs. matched non-cancer tissues. These are early events in the acquisition of metastatic potential by the cancer cells. Taken together, the multi-faceted evidence suggests that the VGSC expression has clinical (diagnostic and therapeutic) potential as a prognostic marker, as well as an anti-metastatic target. The distinct advantages offered by the VGSC include especially (1) its embryonic nature, demonstrated most clearly for the predominant neonatal Nav1.5 expression in breast and colon cancer, and (2) the specifically druggable persistent current that VGSCs develop under hypoxic conditions, as in growing tumours, which promotes invasiveness and metastasis.
Parathyroid Cancer: A Review
Authors: Machado Nikita N , Wilhelm Scott M
Published: October 2019

Parathyroid cancer is one of the rarest causes of primary hyperparathyroidism and tends to present with more severe symptoms than its more benign counterparts. This article details various aspects of the disease process, including epidemiology, clinical presentation, and a step-wise diagnostic process for parathyroid cancer. This includes laboratory assessments as well as a proposed staging system. The en bloc principle of surgical intervention is detailed, as well as the current role of adjuvant treatments. A general guide to surveillance and the natural history of the disease is also outlined.
Performance of Catalysts of Different Nature in Model Tar Component Decomposition
Authors: Steltenpohl Pavol , Husár Jakub , Šuhaj Patrik , Haydary Juma
Published: October 2019

Municipal solid waste constitutes one of the major challenges and concerns of our society. Disposal of waste material is potentially dangerous, harming both environment and mankind. In order to diminish negative effects of municipal solid waste, its thermal decomposition to valuable chemicals has been studied. The principal draw-back of thermal processes used for solid waste utilization as raw material is tar formation. In this study, low-cost catalysts of different origin were tested in the decomposition of a model component of tar originating from waste material pyrolysis/gasification. p-Xylene was selected as the model compound found in biomass decomposition products. Its decomposition was carried out in the presence of either tire pyrolysis char- or clay minerals-based catalysts. Tar-cracking activities of both catalyst types at varying experimental conditions were compared and related to the catalysts physical-chemical properties. In experiments, either empty reactor or reactor filled with 10 g of the catalyst was used; p-xylene mass flow was set to 2.58 g h−1 (50 μL min−1, room temperature), and decomposition temperature ranging from 750 °C to 850 °C was applied. Moreover, evolution of the output variables, p-xylene conversion and hydrogen content in the gas phase, with the reaction time was investigated. Catalysts’ properties were assessed based on nitrogen adsorption isotherms, thermogravimetric and elemental composition analyses. Amounts and composition of p-xylene catalytic decomposition products were evaluated using GC analysis of both gaseous phase and condensable products. Results showed the superiority of tire pyrolysis char catalyst over that based on clay minerals.
Effect of Preparation Parameters on Microparticles with High Loading Capacity and Adsorption Property Adsorbed on Functional Paper
Authors: Xiao Zuobing , Wan Shuai , Niu Yunwei , Kou Xingran
Published: October 2019

Microparticles encapsulated with orange essential oil were prepared by improved emulsifying solvent volatilization technology, and modified with chitosan to improve their loading and adhesion properties on paper. Characterization was performed by Zetasizer Nano ZS instrument, transmission electron microscope (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA), gas-chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and the ultrafast GC Electronic Nose Heracles II, etc. The results showed that for poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microparticles and chitosan–PLGA microparticles, respectively, the particle sizes were 233.2 and 277.6 nm, loading capacity was 19.17% and 24.36%, Zeta potential was −8.27 and 5.44 mV, adhesive capacity was 76.32 and 324.84 mg/g, and encapsulation efficiency was 93.23% and 94.06%. GC-MS demonstrated that the embedding process minimally effected the aroma quality of orange essential oil. The ultrafast GC Electronic Nose Heracles II showed that chitosan–PLGA microparticles could effectively slow the release of the orange essential oil. Therefore, this work provides a proposal for a better understanding of biodegradable functional packaging paper.
Comparative Genomic Analysis of the Biotechnological Potential of the Novel Species Pseudomonas wadenswilerensis CCOS 864T and Pseudomonas reidholzensis CCOS 865T
Authors: Rutz Dominik , Frasson David , Sievers Martin , Blom Jochen , Rezzonico Fabio , Pothier Joël F. , Smits Theo H. M.
Published: October 2019

In recent years, the use of whole-cell biocatalysts and biocatalytic enzymes in biotechnological applications originating from the genus Pseudomonas has greatly increased. In 2014, two new species within the Pseudomonas putida group were isolated from Swiss forest soil. In this study, the high quality draft genome sequences of Pseudomonas wadenswilerensis CCOS 864T and Pseudomonas reidholzensis CCOS 865T were used in a comparative genomics approach to identify genomic features that either differed between these two new species or to selected members of the P. putida group. The genomes of P. wadenswilerensis CCOS 864T and P. reidholzensis CCOS 865T were found to share genomic features for the degradation of aromatic compounds or the synthesis of secondary metabolites. In particular, genes encoding for biocatalytic relevant enzymes belonging to the class of oxidoreductases, proteases and isomerases were found, that could yield potential applications in biotechnology. Ecologically relevant features revealed that both species are probably playing an important role in the degradation of soil organic material, the accumulation of phosphate and biocontrol against plant pathogens.
On the Approximated Reachability of a Class of Time-Varying Nonlinear Dynamic Systems Based on Their Linearized Behavior about the Equilibria: Applications to Epidemic Models
Authors: De la Sen Manuel
Published: October 2019

This paper formulates the properties of point reachability and approximate point reachability of either a targeted state or output values in a general dynamic system which possess a linear time-varying dynamics with respect to a given reference nominal one and, eventually, an unknown structured nonlinear dynamics. Such a dynamics is upper-bounded by a function of the state and input. The results are obtained for the case when the time-invariant nominal dynamics is perfectly known while its time-varying deviations together with the nonlinear dynamics are not precisely known and also for the case when only the nonlinear dynamics is not precisely known. Either the controllability gramian of the nominal linearized system with constant linear parameterization or that of the current linearized system (which includes the time-varying linear dynamics) are assumed to be non-singular. Also, some further results are obtained for the case when the control input is eventually saturated and for the case when the controllability gramians of the linear parts are singular. Examples of the derived theoretical results for some epidemic models are also discussed.
Expansion Planning Method of the Industrial Park Integrated Energy System Considering Regret Aversion
Authors: Xie Haokai , Zhao Pu , Ji Xudong , Lin Qun , Liu Lianguang
Published: October 2019

Industrial parks have various sources and conversion forms of energy. The many uncertainties in the planning of industrial park integrated energy systems (IPIES) pose a great risk of regret in planning schemes; thus, an expansion planning method for an IPIES, considering regret aversion, is proposed. Based on comprehensive regret value consisting of min–max regret aversion and the min average regret value, the method optimizes the comprehensive cost of the expansion planning scheme in IPIES under different natural gas price fluctuation scenarios, including costs of construction, operation and maintenance, and environmental protection. A multi-stage expansion planning scheme and typical daily operation plans under multiple natural gas price fluctuation scenarios of the IPIES in an economic and technological development zone in southeast China are used to demonstrate the validity of the method. The results show that, compared with a traditional planning method based on expectation, the proposed expansion planning method could reduce the maximum regret value by 14% on average, and greatly reduces the risk of decision-making regret by up to 18%. At the same time, the influence of natural gas price on expansion planning of the IPIES is discussed.
Sensor Fault Tolerant Control for Aircraft Engines Using Sliding Mode Observer
Authors: Chang Xiaodong , Huang Jinquan , Lu Feng
Published: October 2019

This paper investigated the problem of fault estimation and fault-tolerant control (FTC) against sensor faults for aircraft engines. By applying a second order sliding mode observer (SOSMO) to the engine on-board model, estimations of the system states and sensor faults could be obtained simultaneously, and the result of state estimation was unaffected when using the reduced-order sliding mode system. This result gave rise to the idea to use the estimated states instead of physical sensor signal in the engine close-loop feedback control. Unlike those using passive FTC concepts, the tradeoff between control performance and robustness was inherently unnecessary. Meanwhile, compared to active FTC approaches, because any classical state/output feedback method can be directly applied to the proposed scheme without any controller reconfiguration, extra undesired dynamic responses caused by parameter reconfiguring were avoided. In this paper, the proposed FTC scheme was tested on the nonlinear model of a civil aircraft turbofan engine, and numerical simulation results showed satisfactory sensor FTC performance.
Potential of Rice Industry Biomass as a Renewable Energy Source
Authors: Mofijur M. , Mahlia T.M.I. , Logeswaran J. , Anwar M. , Silitonga A.S. , Rahman S.M. Ashrafur , Shamsuddin A.H.
Published: October 2019

Fossil fuel depletion, along with its ever-increasing price and detrimental impact on the environment, has urged researchers to look for alternative renewable energy. Of all the options available, biomass presents a very reliable source due to its never-ending supply. As research on various biomasses has grown in recent years, waste from these biomasses has also increased, and it is now time to shift the focus to utilizing these wastes for energy. The current waste management system mainly focuses on open burning and soil incorporation as it is cost-effective; however, these affect the environment. There must be an alternative way, such as to use it for power generation. Rice straw and rice husk are examples of such potential biomass waste. Rice is the main food source for the world, mostly in Asian regions, as most people consume rice daily. This paper reviews factors that impact the implementation of rice-straw-based power plants. Ash content and moisture content are important properties that govern combustion, and these vary with location. Logistical improvements are required to reduce the transport cost of rice husk and rice straw, which is higher than the transportation cost of coal.
Uncertainty Propagation in Crop Adaptation Responses to Climate Change: A Modelling Perspective
Authors: Mukhtar Hussnain , Wunderlich Rainer Ferdinand , Petway Joy R. , Lin Yu-Pin
Published: October 2019

The human population is exponentially increasing and is projected to reach or exceed 9 billion by 2050 [...]
Functionalized Surface Layer on Poplar Wood Fabricated by Fire Retardant and Thermal Densification. Part 1: Compression Recovery and Flammability
Authors: Chu Demiao , Mu Jun , Avramidis Stavros , Rahimi Sohrab , Liu Shengquan , Lai Zongyuan
Published: October 2019

To enhance compression stability and fire retardancy of densified wood, a new modification method i.e., combined nitrogen–phosphorus (NP) fire retardant pre-impregnation with surface thermo-mechanical densification is used to fabricate a certain thickness of functionalized surface layer on poplar. This combined treated wood is investigated via vertical density profile (VDP), and the compression stability is revealed by both soaking test and cone analysis. Results demonstrate that the combined treatment hardened the surface of wood and reformed the interface combination of the NP with the wood cell wall, thus making the surface tissue more close-grained. Fire retardancy was also enhanced; the total heat release and CO generation values decreased by 21.9% and 68.4%, respectively, when compared with that of solely NP-treated wood. Moreover, surface hardness increased by 15.8%, and the recovery of surface hardness and thickness were 56.8% and 77.2% lower than that of simply densified wood. It appears that this NP-involved thermal densification could be considered as an alternative approach to enhance both the compression stability and fire resistance of wood.
Genomic Insights into the Carbon and Energy Metabolism of a Thermophilic Deep-Sea Bacterium Deferribacter autotrophicus Revealed New Metabolic Traits in the Phylum Deferribacteres
Authors: Slobodkin Alexander , Slobodkina Galina , Allioux Maxime , Alain Karine , Jebbar Mohamed , Shadrin Valerian , Kublanov Ilya , Toshchakov Stepan , Bonch-Osmolovskaya Elizaveta
Published: October 2019

Information on the biochemical pathways of carbon and energy metabolism in representatives of the deep lineage bacterial phylum Deferribacteres are scarce. Here, we report the results of the sequencing and analysis of the high-quality draft genome of the thermophilic chemolithoautotrophic anaerobe Deferribacter autotrophicus. Genomic data suggest that CO2 assimilation is carried out by recently proposed reversible tricarboxylic acid cycle (“roTCA cycle”). The predicted genomic ability of D. autotrophicus to grow due to the oxidation of carbon monoxide was experimentally proven. CO oxidation was coupled with the reduction of nitrate to ammonium. Utilization of CO most likely involves anaerobic [Ni, Fe]-containing CO dehydrogenase. This is the first evidence of CO oxidation in the phylum Deferribacteres. The genome of D. autotrophicus encodes a Nap-type complex of nitrate reduction. However, the conversion of produced nitrite to ammonium proceeds via a non-canonical pathway with the participation of hydroxylamine oxidoreductase (Hao) and hydroxylamine reductase. The genome contains 17 genes of putative multiheme c-type cytochromes and “e-pilin” genes, some of which are probably involved in Fe(III) reduction. Genomic analysis indicates that the roTCA cycle of CO2 fixation and putative Hao-enabled ammonification may occur in several members of the phylum Deferribacteres.
Oral Health and Its Associated Factors Among Older Institutionalized Residents—A Systematic Review
Authors: Wong Florence M. F. , Ng Yannies T. Y. , Leung W. Keung
Published: October 2019

The oral health of an ageing population, especially that of the institutionalized elderly population, constitutes a significant concern because it is closely linked to general health and the quality of life. Shared common risk factors drive the development and worsening of poor oral health and non-communicable diseases, which eventually lead to self-care inability. Several studies have reported on the poor oral health of the institutionalized elderly population. However, few comprehensive reports exist regarding the relationship between poor oral health, the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) and the associated factors in this specific population. Objective: The objective is to describe recently reported oral health levels, the OHRQoL and the associated factors among older institutional residents. Methods: Studies published between July 2009 and June 2019 in MEDLINE, EMBASE and CINAHL were searched. The population, intervention, comparison and outcome (PICO) strategy was used as a guide. The reported factors related to poor oral health were identified (i.e., age, gender, educational level, acquired systemic conditions or dementia/cognitive impairment). Results: Twenty-five surveys (or study series) from 19 countries were included. The level of evidence reported by these studies was generally moderate to strong. The reported oral cleanliness and health of the surveyed institutionalized elderly were poor (>50% of residents had calculus; denture hygiene index > 80%). Gum (approximately 30% of dentate residents had moderate to severe periodontitis), teeth (decayed, missing or filled teeth >20), mucosa (>10% had mucosal lesions) and denture problems (up to 40%) were prevalent and were associated with a poor OHRQoL, especially in females, socially deprived residents or those with mild or above cognitive impairment. Those with a poor OHRQoL might show signs of poor nutrition. Conclusions: This report reviewed evidence-based knowledge on oral health, the OHRQoL and the associated factors among elderly institutional residents. Further research is needed to confirm these observations. For improved oral health, a better OHRQoL and the general well-being of older residents, clinical trials are needed, targeting modifiable factors, such as social inequality, oral healthcare accessibility, and/or nursing home service quality. The relationship between oral health, the OHRQoL and nutrition in this at-risk population also warrants exploration.
The Analysis of Bifenox and Dichlobenil Toxicity in Selected Microorganisms and Human Cancer Cells
Authors: Jabłońska-Trypuć Agata , Wydro Urszula , Serra-Majem Lluis , Wołejko Elżbieta , Butarewicz Andrzej
Published: October 2019

Bifenox and Dichlobenil belong to the commonly used in Poland in agriculture group of herbicides and their residues are often detected in the environment. They are poorly known regarding their possible carcinogenic and antibacterial effect at the cellular level. Therefore, we decided to study their activity in bacterial strains Aliivibrio fisheri, E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and C. albicans (yeast) and human cancer ZR-75-1 cells. Compounds under study exhibit stimulatory effect on analyzed bacterial strains. The study performed on mammalian cells better reflects the influence of environmental pollutants on human organism, therefore we evaluated the effect of herbicides on ZR-75-1 cells. Cells viability, apoptosis and selected oxidative stress parameters in ZR-75-1 cells were investigated. Both analyzed substances exhibit stimulatory effects on analyzed parameters, however they do not stimulate apoptosis which correlate positively with the induction of oxidative stress. Bifenox and Dichlobenil enhance oxidative stress parameters by the generation of high levels of ROS, which can lead to their adaptation and resistance to the standard treatment regimen.
Avian Influenza—Factors Affecting Consumers’ Purchase Intentions toward Poultry Products
Authors: Wen Xiaowei , Sun Sangluo , Li Lin , He Qinying , Tsai Fu-Sheng
Published: October 2019

Recently, continuing outbreaks of avian influenza in China have not only caused great loss to the agricultural sector but also brought fear and distrust to consumers, seriously undermining consumer confidence in chicken products. We investigated consumers’ purchase intentions during avian influenza outbreaks by examining a regionally representative sample of 330 consumers in Guangzhou. With respect to 7 kinds of attributes, the ordered logit analysis indicated that possible health threat and uncertainty of the origin of poultry products may cause concern among consumers and cause them to avoid purchasing chicken products. Media reports have a great influence on consumers’ intentions to purchase chicken products during avian influenza outbreaks. Overall, this study suggests establishing an effective mechanism of public knowledge (of chicken products’ safety and quality) enhancement, in order to curb misleading media reports during avian influenza outbreaks.
Quantifying the Coach–Athlete–Parent (C–A–P) Relationship in Youth Sport: Initial Development of the Positive and Negative Processes in the C–A–P Questionnaire (PNPCAP)
Authors: Lisinskiene Ausra , Lochbaum Marc , May Emily , Huml Matt
Published: October 2019

Youth sport participation is valued worldwide. Coaches, parents, and athlete youth routinely interact. These interactions impact youth sport participation. To date, only a 48-item measure exits assessing the overall perception of the coach–athlete–parent relationship with the same question set for coaches, parents, and athletes. However, this 48-item measure has not undergone quantitative development. Hence, we sought to assess these 48 items and to further develop a valid and reliable instrument measuring the coach–athlete–parent relationship. To do so, two studies were conducted. In Study 1, 308 participants completed the existing 48-item measure, resulting in 15 items that were fit into two dimensions, positive and negative group processes. In Study 2, 678 participants completed the 15-item measure. After examining the analyses, 11 items remained to form the Positive and Negative Processes in the Coach–Athlete–Parent Questionnaire (PNPCAP). In summary, the PNPCAP is a valid brief measure for assessing interpersonal relationships among coach–athlete–parents in both team and individual sport contexts. Future research is needed to continue to develop the scale for construct validity as well as translate the scale into multiple languages to determine validity in across countries.
Nexus between Air Pollution and Neonatal Deaths: A Case of Asian Countries
Authors: Anwar Asim , Ayub Muhammad , Khan Noman , Flahault Antoine
Published: October 2019

The rapid economic growth in Asian countries has witnessed a persistent increase in air pollution complementing adverse health challenges for children in these countries. Quantification of health effects attributable to air pollution (PM2.5) is important in policy implications to tackle air pollution and associated health problems. This study aims to explore the nexus between air pollution and neonates’ deaths embedded in acute respiratory infection. We collected panel data from the 12 most vulnerable Asian countries over the period of 2000–2017 and analyzed through the fixed-effect model. Empirical results show a positive relation between air pollution, temperature, and neonates’ deaths in the studied Asian countries. The results have attested negative impacts of income and education while positive effect of population density on neonates’ deaths due to acute respiratory infection. Diagnostic and prognostic measures have checked the pace of the respiratory diseases caused by PM2.5 and resultant deaths in Asian countries; yet alarming factors, like mounting industrial air pollution and rapid expansion of industrial zones in urban areas, need to be addressed in policy implications for long term sustainable solutions.
Detecting Mortality Trends in the Netherlands Across 625 Causes of Death
Authors: Mitratza Marianna , Kunst Anton E. , Kardaun Jan W. P. F.
Published: October 2019

Cause of death (COD) data are essential to public health monitoring and policy. This study aims to determine the proportion of CODs, at ICD-10 three-position level, for which a long-term or short-term trend can be identified, and to examine how much the likelihood of identifying trends varies with COD size. We calculated annual age-standardized counts of deaths from Statistics Netherlands for the period 1996–2015 for 625 CODs. We applied linear regression models to estimate long-term trends, and outlier analysis to detect short-term changes. The association of the likelihood of a long-term trend with COD size was analyzed with multinomial logistic regression. No long-term trend could be demonstrated for 216 CODs (34.5%). For the remaining 409 causes, a trend could be detected, following a linear (211, 33.8%), quadratic (126, 20.2%) or cubic model (72, 11.5%). The probability of detecting a long-term trend increased from about 50% at six mean annual deaths, to 65% at 22 deaths and 75% at 60 deaths. An exceptionally high or low number of deaths in a single year was found for 16 CODs. When monitoring long-term mortality trends, one could consider a much broader range of causes of death, including ones with a relatively low number of annual deaths, than commonly used in condensed lists.
Changes in Water Soluble Uremic Toxins and Urinary Acute Kidney Injury Biomarkers After 10- and 100-km Runs
Authors: Wołyniec Wojciech , Kasprowicz Katarzyna , Giebułtowicz Joanna , Korytowska Natalia , Zorena Katarzyna , Bartoszewicz Maria , Rita-Tkachenko Patrycja , Renke Marcin , Ratkowski Wojciech
Published: October 2019

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is described as a relatively common complication of exercise. In clinical practice the diagnosis of AKI is based on serum creatinine, the level of which is dependent not only on glomerular filtration rate but also on muscle mass and injury. Therefore, the diagnosis of AKI is overestimated after physical exercise. The aim of this study was to determine changes in uremic toxins: creatinine, urea, uric acid, asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA), trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) and urinary makers of AKI: albumin, neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (uNGAL), kidney injury molecule-1 and cystatin-C (uCyst-C) after long runs. Sixteen runners, mean age 36.7 ± 8.2 years, (2 women, 14 men) participating in 10- and 100-km races were studied. Blood and urine were taken before and after the races to assess markers of AKI. A statistically significant increase in creatinine, urea, uric acid, SDMA and all studied urinary AKI markers was observed. TMAO and ADMA levels did not change. The changes in studied markers seem to be a physiological reaction, because they were observed almost in every runner. The diagnosis of kidney failure after exercise is challenging. The most valuable novel markers which can help in post-exercise AKI diagnosis are uCyst-C and uNGAL.
Job Insecurity: A Comparative Analysis between Migrant and Native Workers in Australia
Authors: Liu Xiaomin , Bowe Steven J. , Milner Allison , Li Lin , Too Lay San , LaMontagne Anthony D.
Published: October 2019

Job insecurity is a modifiable risk factor for poor health outcomes, and exposure to job insecurity varies by population groups. This study assessed if job insecurity exposure varied by migrant status and if the differences varied by gender, age, educational attainment, and occupational skill level. Data were from wave 14 of the Household Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia Survey. The outcome was job insecurity. Exposure was migrant status defined by (1) the country of birth (COB), (2) the dominant language of the COB, and (3) the number of years since arrival in Australia. Data were analysed using linear regression, adjusting for gender, age, educational attainment, and occupational skill level. These covariates were also analysed as effect modifiers for the migrant status–job insecurity relationships. Migrant workers, especially those from non-English speaking countries (non-ESC-born), experienced higher job insecurity than Australia-born workers; however, these disparities disappeared after 11+ years post-arrival. The migrant status–job insecurity relationships were modified by educational attainment. Unexpectedly, the disparities in job insecurity between non-ESC-born migrants and Australia-born workers increased with increasing educational attainment, and for those most highly educated, the disparities persisted beyond 11 years post-arrival. Our findings suggested that continuing language skill support and discrimination prevention could facilitate migrant integration into the Australian labour market.
Endometrial Immune Dysfunction in Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
Authors: Ticconi Carlo , Pietropolli Adalgisa , Di Simone Nicoletta , Piccione Emilio , Fazleabas Asgerally
Published: October 2019

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) represents an unresolved problem for contemporary gynecology and obstetrics. In fact, it is not only a relevant complication of pregnancy, but is also a significant reproductive disorder affecting around 5% of couples desiring a child. The current knowledge on RPL is largely incomplete, since nearly 50% of RPL cases are still classified as unexplained. Emerging evidence indicates that the endometrium is a key tissue involved in the correct immunologic dialogue between the mother and the conceptus, which is a condition essential for the proper establishment and maintenance of a successful pregnancy. The immunologic events occurring at the maternal–fetal interface within the endometrium in early pregnancy are extremely complex and involve a large array of immune cells and molecules with immunoregulatory properties. A growing body of experimental studies suggests that endometrial immune dysregulation could be responsible for several, if not many, cases of RPL of unknown origin. The present article reviews the major immunologic pathways, cells, and molecular determinants involved in the endometrial dysfunction observed with specific application to RPL.
Insight into Mechanobiology: How Stem Cells Feel Mechanical Forces and Orchestrate Biological Functions
Authors: Argentati Chiara , Morena Francesco , Tortorella Ilaria , Bazzucchi Martina , Porcellati Serena , Emiliani Carla , Martino Sabata
Published: October 2019

The cross-talk between stem cells and their microenvironment has been shown to have a direct impact on stem cells’ decisions about proliferation, growth, migration, and differentiation. It is well known that stem cells, tissues, organs, and whole organisms change their internal architecture and composition in response to external physical stimuli, thanks to cells’ ability to sense mechanical signals and elicit selected biological functions. Likewise, stem cells play an active role in governing the composition and the architecture of their microenvironment. Is now being documented that, thanks to this dynamic relationship, stemness identity and stem cell functions are maintained. In this work, we review the current knowledge in mechanobiology on stem cells. We start with the description of theoretical basis of mechanobiology, continue with the effects of mechanical cues on stem cells, development, pathology, and regenerative medicine, and emphasize the contribution in the field of the development of ex-vivo mechanobiology modelling and computational tools, which allow for evaluating the role of forces on stem cell biology.