bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Resurgence of Measles Infection and its Associated Complications in Early Childhood at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Peshawar, Pakistan
Authors: ILYAS MUHAMMAD , AFZAL SUMERA , AHMAD JAMSHAID , ALGHAMDI SAAD , KHURRAM MUHAMMAD
Published: June 2020

Measles infection is of substantial interest to immunologists due to its paradoxical interaction with the immune system. After the acquisition of the measles infection, secondary infection plays a pivotal role in measles-related deaths. A cross-sectional study conducted between December 2018 and July 2019 is presented here. A total of one hundred children of both genders presented with measles complications were included following WHO criteria. Measles confirmation was done by quantitative determination of anti-measles antibodies (IgM) in patients’ sera while patient-related demographic data, vaccination status, and other clinical information were obtained on a separate form. The number of female patients (52%) slightly exceeded the number of males (48%). 43% of patients’ parents were illiterate, and half of the patients (50%) were from a poor background. The majority of children (76%) who presented with the complications did not receive a measles vaccine. 56% of children were breastfed while 58% received vitamin A supplements but developed complications. The elevated levels of anti-measles IgM were observed in 77% of cases. In both genders, the major complications were pneumonia, lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI), acute diarrhea, diarrhea and LRTI, pneumonia and diarrhea, otitis media and pneumonia, myocarditis and LRTI, and pneumothorax. The majority of the infected children (n = 48) under 12 months of age had associated complications. It has been observed that the measles virus strikes early age children in the northwestern region of Pakistan, which is an alarming situation and is associated with the aforementioned complications, especially in unvaccinated children. Anti-measles IgM is an important serological parameter for early diagnosis of measles infection.
Sifat Fisikokimia Zat Pewarna dari Bunga Eceng Gondok (Eichhornia crassipes) yang Diekstrak dengan Metode Microwave Asissted Extraction (MAE)
Authors: Syafutri Merynda Indriyani , Pratama Filli , Yanda Gading Putra
Published: June 2020

Syafutri et al, 2019. Physicochemical Properties of Colorant from Water Hyacinth Flower (Eichhornia crassipes) Extracted by Microwave Assisted Extraction (MAE) Method. JLSO 8(1):94-106.The objective of this research was to determine the effect of oven microwave power and extraction time on color intensity, anthocyanin stability, and antioxidant activity of colorant from water hyacinth flower (Eichhornia crassipes) extracted by microwave assisted extraction (MAE) method. The research was conducted at Agricultural Product Chemical Laboratory, Agricultural Technology Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Sriwijaya University. The experiment used a Factorial Completely Randomized Design with two factors and each treatment was repeated three times.  The first factor was oven microwave power (100 watts and 300 watts) and the second factor was extraction time in oven microwave (1 minute, 2 minutes, and 3 minutes). The parameters were color intensity, anthocyanin stability, and antioxidant activity. The results showed that the oven microwave power and extraction time had significant effects on color intensity and antioxidant activity. The increasing of oven microwave power and extraction time increased a* value and antioxidant activity, and decreased b* value, significantly. The result also showed that the anthocyanin compounds was not stable with heating up to 105°C.
Performa dan Determinan Petani dalam Keputusan Adopsi Inovasi Sistem Tanam Padi Rawa di Sumatera Selatan
Authors: Adriani Dessy , Wildayana Elisa , Alamsyah Idham , Minha Amruzie
Published: June 2020

Adriani D, Wildayana E, Alamsyah I, Minha A. 2019. Performance and determinants of farmers in  adoption decision of innovation for swamps rice cropping system in South Sumatra. Jurnal Lahan Suboptimal: Journal of Suboptimal Lands. 8(2):181-191. The development of food crops in swamplands became one of  main focus of the government in the development of rice farming in Indonesia. A variety of ecological constraints that accompany the development of agriculture in swamp land overcome by a variety of technological innovations, one of which is with the application of Cropping Index 200 (CI 200) technology. After nearly 5 years of CI 200 technology applied on swamp land is considered necessary for analysis related to the performance of socio-economic of farmers in the adoption of technology innovations CI 200. This study aimed to analyze the socio-economic condition of farmers in adopting IP 200 technology innovation, and analyze the determinants of IP 200 technology adoption decisions. Research was using the survey method and has been carried out in 2 districts, namely Tanjung Lago sub-District, Banyuasin District and Pemulutan sub-District, Ogan Ilir District in June-July 2019. Sampling method used disproportionate stratified random sampling. The analysis of the data was using tabulations, mathematical and logistic regression analysis. The results of the analysis showed that there were differences in the performance of the socioeconomy of farmers adopting and not adopting. The performance of the socio-economic of farmers who adopt were better than farmers who did not adopt the technology CI 200. The factors that determine the farmers adopt were the age, education, origin, experience, income, and the cost of farming.
Penggunaan Biochar dan Tinggi Muka Air pada Umur Satu Bulan setelah Tanam terhadap Pertumbuhan dan Hasil Tanaman Bawang Merah
Authors: Susilawati Susilawati , Irmawati Irmawati , Sukarmi Sri , Kurnianingsih Astuti , Mutia Ade
Published: June 2020

Susilawati S, Irmawati I, Sukarmi S, Kurnianingsih A, Mutia A. 2019. The application of biochar and water table at one month after planting on growth and yield of shallot. Jurnal Lahan Suboptimal: Journal of Suboptimal Lands. 8(2):202-212. The success of onion self-sufficiency is the arrangement and growth of production centers that are not only concentrated in Java. The research aimed to evaluate the effect of biochar application and water table treatment on growth and yield of shallot plant. The research was conducted in Experimental Farm of Agriculture Faculty, Sriwijaya University at 2019. Materials used consisted of shallot bulb of Bima Brebes variety, oil palm shells biochar, paper bag, and plastic bag. While the tools used were hoe, gauge, pH meter, basin, scale, and oven. Factorial Randomized Block Design was used with two factors and three replicates. The first factor was biochar dosages consisting of P1 (51 g/plant) and P2 (102 g/plant) and the second factor was soil water table consisting of T0 (no water table treatment), T1 (10 cm of water table below soil surface), T2 (15 cm of water table below soil surface) and T3 (30 cm of water table below soil surface). The observed parameters included plant height, leaf number, tiller number, total bulb fresh weight, bulb fresh weight, bulb dry weight and root length. Results showed that the application of biochar and water table treatment statistically affected the growth and yield of shallot plant. The effect on both growth and yield parameters were obtained from the combination of P2T3. Correlation was found between plant height and leaf number, total bulb fresh weight and bulb fresh weight.
Feasibility of Swamp Paddy Farming with New Superior Varieties and Different Planting System
Authors: Alfayanti Alfayanti , Mikasari Wilda , Rahman Taupik
Published: June 2020

Alfayanti A, Wilda M, Taupik R. 2020. Feasibility of swamp paddy farming with new superior varieties and different planting system. Jurnal Lahan Suboptimal: Journal of Suboptimal Lands 9(1): 50-56.Efforts to fulfil the community food demands could be achieved by swamp land optimization. One technology that can be developed on swamp land is utilization of new superior variety and planting system. Economic feasibility is one of considerations for  farmers to adopt a technology innovation. The study aimed to determine the combination of the most economically viable new superior variety and planting system to be developed in swamp rice farming. The study was conducted from May-August 2016 in Karang Anyar Village Semidang Alas Maras district, Seluma Regency. There are 7 New Superior Varieties  of swamp paddy cultivated; Inpara 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 8, and Dendang and 1 existing variety as benchmark variety, Cigeulis. The planting system applied were legowo planting system (2:1) with insertion and without insertion. The data used to achieve the research objectives is primary data in the form of farming data to calculate economic benefits and feasibility. Farm profit is calculated using partial analysis whereas economic feasibility is calculated by evaluating the break even point and R/C ratio. The results showed that Inpara 6 with legowo planting system with insertion yield the largest profit Rp 15.096.600,-/ha with R/C ratio of 2.92.
Vegetation Types, Climatic Conditions and Trigona sp. Honey Quality in Onewila Village, Ranomeeto District South Konawe Regency
Authors: Mane Kandari Aminuddin , Uslinawaty Zakiah , Ilton Muh.
Published: June 2020

Kandari AM, Uslinawaty Z, Ilton M. 2020. Vegetation types, climatic conditions and Trigona sp. honey quality in Onewila Village, Ranomeeto district South Konawe Regency. Jurnal Lahan Suboptimal: Journal of Suboptimal Lands 9(1):57-63.Forests in Indonesia have considerable potential because besides being used in the form of wood for various purposes, it also has the potential of non-timber products that can be used for various things, one of which is as a vegetation for honey bees, especially bees Trigona sp.This study aims to identification of vegetation types, climatic conditions and honey quality of Trigona sp. in the Onewila village, Ranomeeto District South Konawe Regency. The observed variables were vegetation, temperature, rainfall, and honey quality based on SNI 2013 standards. The results found the vegetation types at the cultivation location was Caliandra (Caliandra calothyrsus =10), coconut (Cocos nucifera = 12), teak (Tectona grandis= 20), peat (Syzygium polycephalum Merr = 7), mango (Mangifera indica =5), langsat (Lansium domesticum =15), kedondong (Spondias dulcis =3), guava (Psidium guajava =4), areca (Areca catechu = 10), coffee (Coffea Arabica = 15), cashew nut (Anacardium occidentale =15), areca nut (Areca catechu), coffee (Coffea arabica), cashew nut (Spondias dulcis), Cashew nut (Anacardium occidentale = 15), Sirsak ((Annona muricata = 2), and asoka flowers (Saraca asoka= 5). The air temperature and rainfall conditions in the location is very supportive of Trigona cultivation because the average of air temperature ranges from 29oC, and the average monthly rainfall at Ranomeeto station is highest in January (135 mm) and lowest in August (16.8 mm). The honey quality of Trigona sp, from several variables such as water content, acidity, HMF levels, and reducing sugar levels are 16.98%, 33.94 mg/kg, 17.3 mg/kg, 69.31 % b/b. This means that the honey quality of Trigona sp found in Onewila village meets the Indonesian National Standard (SNI 01-3545-2013 2013).
The Influence of Organizational Culture on Increasing Employee Motivation in Sumut Bank of Sharia Unit, North Sumatera
Authors: Nur M Ridha Tarigan  , Supar Wasesa
Published: June 2020

This study wants to describe the influence of organizational culture on increasing employee motivation in Sumut Bank of sharia unit, North Sumatera. This research uses descriptive and verification methods. The place of research was conducted at Sumut Bank of Sharia Unit in North Sumatera. Considering the nature of this research is descriptive and verification, the research method used is descriptive survey and explanatory survey method. The type of investigation in this research is causality, which is testing the causal relationship between independent variables, intervening variables, moderating variables and dependent variables. The unit of analysis in this study is the employees at the North Sumatra Syariah Unit Bank in North Sumatra. The result shows that Organizational Culture on Increasing Employee Motivation in Sumut Bank of Sharia Unit, North Sumaterais perceived as less powerful to very strong. The highest average value on management indicators supports strengthening organizational culture, meaning that management always improves organizational culture as a support of the company's goals.
Paperileija olemisen mietiskelynä
Authors: Sintonen Sara
Published: June 2020

Yrjö Hirnin suomalaisen leikkitutkimuksen perusteoksessa leikki ja taide suhteutuvat elämään oppimismatkana. Klassikon paluu -sarjassa esitellään teoksia, jotka ovat olleet merkityksellisiä aikuiskasvatuksen tutkijoille ja ammattilaisille opinnoissa, tutkimuksessa ja työssä.
Kansalainen käy ilmastokriisin kimppuun
Authors: Laakkonen Erja
Published: June 2020

Ohjekirja ilmastokriisistä huolestuneelle käy systemaattisesti läpi suomalaista arkea ja sen ilmastovaikutuksia. Tarkoituksena on löytää tehokkaita, mutta toteuttamiskelpoisia ratkaisuja, joilla kukin voi pienentää omaa hiilijalanjälkeään. Pääsanoma lukijalle on: etsi ja löydä teot, joita voit tehdä ilmastonmuutoksen hillitsemiseksi ja toteuta ne, joilla on suurin vaikutus.
Varhaista johdon konsultointia
Authors: Onnismaa Jussi
Published: June 2020

Mestari Men eli Mengzi (372–289 eaa.) oli Kungfutsen (551–479 eaa.) tärkein seuraaja ja ajattelun kehittäjä. Suomentaja ja toimittaja Jyrki Kallio luonnehtii kungfutselaisuutta perinnäistapoja ja sosiaalisten roolien mukaista käytöstä painottavaksi yhteiskunnallis-eettiseksi opiksi, joka tähtää itsen jalostamiseen ja hyvän hallinnon edistämiseen. Kun edistys nähdään paluuna vanhoihin hyviin tapoihin, oppi ei ole radikaaleimpia, mutta sen pohjalta on voitu paitsi silittää valtaapitäviä myötäkarvaan myös kritisoida heitä.
Tutki, lue, kirjoita ja ajattele!
Authors: Airaksinen Tiina
Published: June 2020

Tieto- ja oppikirjailja Hanna Vilkka on tehnyt tervetulleen kirjan akateemisen opinnäytteen kirjoittajille ja opinnäytteiden ohjaajille. Teos on lukemaan, kirjoittamaan, ajattelemaan ja keskustelemaan innostava käytännönläheinen käyttö- ja toimintaopas. Se soveltuu oivasti myös tieteellisen kirjoittamisen opetukseen.
VALIDATION OF ELDERLY ABUSE ASSESSMENT TOOL
Authors: Acob Joel Rey Ugsang
Published: June 2020

Background: Several screening tools for elderly abuse have been developed but they have rarely been validated properly for wider use. The multiplicity of the tools available revealed the need to develop through collaborative research, a simple and reliable tool that can be adapted and used in different geographical and cultural settings. As the cases of abuse increase, nurses are in a position to rescue this vulnerable population through equipping knowledge and be knowledgeable on using elderly assessment tool for abuse cases.

Objective: To validate the developed Filipino-based elderly abuse assessment tool.  

Methods: The study utilized descriptive confirmatory method design and underwent validation and reliability process. Five experts conducted the scrutiny during validation and 220 elderly clients’ subjected the tool for reliability tests. Data are analyzed using SPSS version 23, while frequency and percentage were used for continuous variable.

Results: The Elderly Abuse Assessment Tool is valid and reliable. The tool is clear in terms of the word composition, the texts are understood easily, comprehensive, and relevant based on expert reviews.  It has I-CVI of 0.84 (44 items) and increases value in its second version to 0.87 (42 items). On one hand, the tool obtained a very high degree of reliability with Cronbach’s Alpha of 0.974 during the second version. Regardless of item numbers are retained, the value remains high. Constructs identified from the validated tool. Kaiser’s criterion or the Eigenvalue result of the second version of the developed tool revealed six factors that can be extracted. However, in the Scree test or plot, only two factors located above the inflection points. This means that two factors or constructs can be named. The researcher decided to choose the lesser number for easier naming of factors.  The tool was classified into two constructs, namely physico-sexual and psycho-financial factors, respectively.

Conclusion: The Elderly Abuse Assessment Tool (EAAT) is valid and has a very high degree of reliability. Physico-sexual and Psycho-financial are the two major constructs of the tool. Filipino nurses can now articulate their expression of unending caring through the utility of the validated Elderly Abuse Assessment Tool (EAAT).
Association of Heterotic Groups with Morphological Relationships and General Combining Ability in Eggplant
Authors: Boyaci Hatice Filiz , Prohens Jaime , Unlu Abdullah , Gumrukcu Emine , Oten Mehmet , Plazas Mariola
Published: June 2020

The identification of heterotic groups may provide an important advantage for hybrid eggplant (Solanum melongena) breeding. In this study, we evaluated the combining ability and heterotic patterns of eggplant lines in order to develop improved eggplant cultivars resistant to Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. melongenae (FOM). A set of 62 inbred lines was evaluated with 32 morphological descriptors and their relationships were analyzed through a multivariate cluster analysis. A subset of 39 inbred lines was selected and, together with 15 sister lines, they were crossed with two testers to investigate their general combining ability (GCA) and to establish heterotic groups. Twenty selected inbred lines with high GCA were intercrossed using a half-diallel mating design. Eighty-two hybrids were obtained and evaluated for yield and yield components. We found no association between morphological distance and membership to specific heterotic groups. However, heterosis for yield was found in hybrids among parents from different heterotic groups or that were included in all heterotic groups. Among the hybrids evaluated, some were found to be highly productive and resistant to FOM, being candidates for the registration of new cultivars with dramatically improved characteristics.
Effect of Supplementation of Herd Diet with Olive Cake on the Composition Profile of Milk and on the Composition, Quality and Sensory Profile of Cheeses Made Therefrom
Authors: Chiofalo Biagina , Di Rosa Ambra Rita , Lo Presti Vittorio , Chiofalo Vincenzo , Liotta Luigi
Published: June 2020

Aim of the present study was to assess the effect of dietary dried partially destoned olive cake supplement on nutritional quality and sensory profile of milk and cheese produced by dairy cows. The experiment was carried out on eighty-four healthy dairy Friesian cows divided into two homogenous groups. The control group (CTR) received a conventional diet, whereas the experimental group (OC) received a conventional diet supplemented with olive cake as 15% of DM. The trial lasted five months. Monthly, on individual milk samples, yield and physical-chemical parameters were determined. Milk was used for the artisanal cheese production. On 10 samples of cheese for each group, physical-chemical and fatty acid profile were determined. Electronic nose analysis and sensory evaluation were performed. Data were analyzed by ANOVA. The diet affected (p < 0.05) the milk yield, exclusively in September. Yield and quality of cheese of OC group after 60 d of ripening showed higher (p < 0.05) yield, moisture and fat content, lower (p < 0.05) pH, protein, salt and ash content, higher (p < 0.01) MUFA and PUFA and CLA content, lower (p < 0.05) SFA, higher (p < 0.01) UFA/SFA and hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolemic ratios, better (p < 0.01) atherogenic and thrombogenic indices. Data show dietary olive cake supplementation in lactating dairy cows improves nutritional and nutraceutical properties of cheese, volatile profile and level of assessors’ acceptance.
High Frequency of Intravenous Injection of Human Adipose Stem Cell Conditioned Medium Improved Embryo Development of Mice in Advanced Maternal Age through Antioxidant Effects
Authors: Ra Kihae , Oh Hyun Ju , Kim Geon A , Kang Sung Keun , Ra Jeong Chan , Lee Byeong Chun
Published: June 2020

Advanced maternal age (AMA) has become prevalent globally. With aging, weakened antioxidant defense causes loss of normal function in the ovary and uterus due to oxidative stress. Here, we aimed to improve embryo development in AMA mice by intravenous injection (IV) of human adipose stem cell conditioned medium (ASC-CM) at various frequencies and intervals as an antioxidant intervention. Four- and six-month-old female ICR (Institute of Cancer Research) mice were randomly divided into groups IV treated with human ASC-CM under different conditions, and in vitro and in vivo embryo development were evaluated. Consequently, compared to the control group, blastocyst formation rate of parthenotes was significantly promoted in 4-month-old mice and the mean number of implanted fetuses after natural mating was significantly increased by approximately two-fold in 6-month-old mice. Through gene analysis, the anti-apoptotic and anti-oxidative effects of human ASC-CMs were confirmed in the ovaries and uterus of pregnant mice at both ages. In particular, ovarian expression of gpx1 and catalase drastically increased in 6-month-old mice. Furthermore, the levels of gpx1 and catalase were further increased, with a high frequency of injection regardless of age. Thus, we demonstrated for the first time the anti-oxidative effect of human ASC-CM administration against ovarian aging and the optimal injection condition.
Electromagnetic and Thermal Phenomena Modeling of Electrical Discharges in Liquids
Authors: Wesołowski Marcin , Tabor Sylwester , Kiełbasa Paweł , Kurpaska Sławomir
Published: June 2020

Electrical discharges in liquids have received lots of attention with respect to their potential applications in various techniques and technical processes. Exemplary, they are useful for water treatment, chemical and thermal processes acceleration, or nanoparticles production. In this paper the special utility of discharges for cold pasteurization of fruit juices is presented. Development of devices for its implementation is a significant engineering problem and should be performed using modeling and simulation techniques to determine the real parameters of discharges. Unfortunately, there is a lack of clear and uniform description of breakdown phenomena in liquids. To overcome this limitation, new methods and algorithms for streamers propagation and breakdown phase analysis are presented in the paper. All solutions were tested in “active area” in the form of liquid material model, placed between two flat electrodes. Electromagnetic and thermal-coupled field analysis were performed to determine all the factors that affect the discharge propagation. Additionally, some circuit models were used to include the power source cooperation with discharge region. In general, presented solutions can be defined as universal and one can use them for numerical simulation of other types of discharges.
Interleukins 4 and 13 and Their Receptors Are Differently Expressed in Gastrointestinal Tract Cancers, Depending on the Anatomical Site and Disease Advancement, and Improve Colon Cancer Cell Viability and Motility
Authors: Bednarz-Misa Iwona , Diakowska Dorota , Szczuka Izabela , Fortuna Paulina , Kubiak Agnieszka , Rosińczuk Joanna , Krzystek-Korpacka Małgorzata
Published: June 2020

Immunosuppressive interleukins (IL)-4 and 13 may directly promote cancer but neither their status nor role in gastrointestinal tract is clarified. We aim at quantifying ILs and their receptors in paired normal-tumor samples (n = 49/51) and sera (n = 263), using immunoassays and RTqPCR, and screening for their effect on colonic cancer cells. Both ILs were elevated locally at protein level in all cancers but only IL13 transcripts in colon were upregulated. Interleukin and their receptor expression reflected cancer pathology to varying degrees, with the association frequently inverse and manifested in non-cancerous tissue. Positive correlation with cancer-promoting genes BCL2, BCLxL, HIF1A, VEGFA, ACTA2, CCL2, PTGS2, and CDKN1A, but not Ki67, was demonstrated, particularly for ILs’ receptors. Circulating IL-4 was elevated in all, while IL-13 only in colorectal or esophageal cancers, reflecting their advancement. IL4Ra and IL13Ra1 transcripts were downregulated by hypoxia and, in Caco-2, also by IL-4. Interleukin stimulation slightly improved colonic cancer cell viability, weakly upregulating BCL2 and Ki67 in HCT116 and HT-29. It affected cell motility more markedly and was consistently accompanied by upregulation of claudin-2. Gastrointestinal tract cancers are associated with IL-4 and IL-13 upregulation, which may facilitate cancer growth. Targeting both interleukins as an antineoplastic strategy warrants further investigation.
The Progression of Acute Myeloid Leukemia from First Diagnosis to Chemoresistant Relapse: A Comparison of Proteomic and Phosphoproteomic Profiles
Authors: Aasebø Elise , Berven Frode S. , Hovland Randi , Døskeland Stein Ove , Bruserud Øystein , Selheim Frode , Hernandez-Valladares Maria
Published: June 2020

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an aggressive hematological malignancy. Nearly 50% of the patients who receive the most intensive treatment develop chemoresistant leukemia relapse. Although the leukemogenic events leading to relapse seem to differ between patients (i.e., regrowth from a clone detected at first diagnosis, progression from the original leukemic or preleukemic stem cells), a common characteristic of relapsed AML is increased chemoresistance. The aim of the present study was to investigate at the proteomic level whether leukemic cells from relapsed patients present overlapping molecular mechanisms that contribute to this chemoresistance. We used liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) to compare the proteomic and phosphoproteomic profiles of AML cells derived from seven patients at the time of first diagnosis and at first relapse. At the time of first relapse, AML cells were characterized by increased levels of proteins important for various mitochondrial functions, such as mitochondrial ribosomal subunit proteins (MRPL21, MRPS37) and proteins for RNA processing (DHX37, RNA helicase; RPP40, ribonuclease P component), DNA repair (ERCC3, DNA repair factor IIH helicase; GTF2F1, general transcription factor), and cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) activity. The levels of several cytoskeletal proteins (MYH14/MYL6/MYL12A, myosin chains; VCL, vinculin) as well as of proteins involved in vesicular trafficking/secretion and cell adhesion (ITGAX, integrin alpha-X; CD36, platelet glycoprotein 4; SLC2A3, solute carrier family 2) were decreased in relapsed cells. Our study introduces new targetable proteins that might direct therapeutic strategies to decrease chemoresistance in relapsed AML.
A Detrimental Effect of Acetonitrile on the Kinetics of Underpotentially Deposited Hydrogen and Hydrogen Evolution Reaction, Examined on Pt Electrode in H2SO4 and NaOH Solutions
Authors: Mikolajczyk Tomasz , Luba Mateusz , Pierozynski Boguslaw , Smoczynski Lech
Published: June 2020

The present paper reports AC impedance spectroscopic/Tafel polarization and cyclic voltammetry study on the influence of acetonitrile concentration on the kinetics of UPD of H (underpotential deposition of hydrogen) and HER (hydrogen evolution reaction), examined on polycrystalline and polyoriented single-crystal sphere Pt electrode surfaces in 0.5 M H2SO4 and 0.1 M NaOH supporting solutions. The resulted data provided confirmation of the destructive role of Pt surface-electrosorbed acetonitrile on the kinetics of underpotentially deposited hydrogen, as well as cathodic hydrogen evolution reaction. The above was exclusively elucidated through evaluation of the associated charge-transfer resistance and capacitance (and complementary exchange current-density and Tafel slope) parameters, derived comparatively on Pt for pure and acetonitrile-modified acidic and alkaline electrolytes.
Parametric Sensitivity Analysis for the Industrial Case of O-Xylene Oxidation to Phthalic Anhydride in a Packed Bed Catalytic Reactor
Authors: Zuluaga-Botero Santiago , Dobrosz-Gómez Izabela , Gómez-García Miguel-Ángel
Published: June 2020

The operation of packed bed tubular reactors, for exothermic catalytic reactions, presents special challenges provoked by hotspot development. Their potential safety risk can be assessed using different mathematical methodologies, among them, the so-called parametric sensitivity analysis (PSA). This study deals with the identification of safe operational conditions (e.g., feed temperature conditions) for the catalytic oxidation of o-xylene. Three different reaction networks, with different degrees of complexity, were analyzed. Thus, the critical values of the operating parameters, allowing us to define run-away and stable operation conditions, were provided for different reactive configurations. The obtained results were compared with the data reported by various authors who used similar reaction rate laws. The purpose of the present study is to illustrate the peculiarities of the PSA and its application for the design, analysis, and operation of o-xylene multitubular catalytic reactor.
Conditionally Reprogrammed Cells from Patient-Derived Xenograft to Model Neuroendocrine Prostate Cancer Development
Authors: Ci Xinpei , Hao Jun , Dong Xin , Xue Hui , Wu Rebecca , Choi Stephen Yiu Chuen , Haegert Anne M. , Collins Colin C. , Liu Xuefeng , Lin Dong , Wang Yuzhuo
Published: June 2020

Neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC) is a lethal subtype of prostate cancer. It develops mainly via NE transdifferentiation of prostate adenocarcinoma in response to androgen receptor (AR)-inhibition therapy. The study of NEPC development has been hampered by a lack of clinically relevant models. We previously established a unique and first-in-field patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model of adenocarcinoma (LTL331)-to-NEPC (LTL331R) transdifferentiation. In this study, we applied conditional reprogramming (CR) culture to establish a LTL331 PDX-derived cancer cell line named LTL331_CR_Cell. These cells retain the same genomic mutations as the LTL331 parental tumor. They can be continuously propagated in vitro and can be genetically manipulated. Androgen deprivation treatment on LTL331_CR_Cells had no effect on cell proliferation. Transcriptomic analyses comparing the LTL331_CR_Cell to its parental tumor revealed a profound downregulation of the androgen response pathway and an upregulation of stem and basal cell marker genes. The transcriptome of LTL331_CR_Cells partially resembles that of post-castrated LTL331 xenografts in mice. Notably, when grafted under the renal capsules of male NOD/SCID mice, LTL331_CR_Cells spontaneously gave rise to NEPC tumors. This is evidenced by the histological expression of the NE marker CD56 and the loss of adenocarcinoma markers such as PSA. Transcriptomic analyses of the newly developed NEPC tumors further demonstrate marked enrichment of NEPC signature genes and loss of AR signaling genes. This study provides a novel research tool derived from a unique PDX model. It allows for the investigation of mechanisms underlying NEPC development by enabling gene manipulations ex vivo and subsequent functional evaluations in vivo.
Metformin’s Modulatory Effects on miRNAs Function in Cancer Stem Cells—A Systematic Review
Authors: Malinowski Bartosz , Musiała Nikola , Wiciński Michał
Published: June 2020

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been reported in various hematopoietic and solid tumors, therefore, are considered to promote cancer progression, metastasis, recurrence and drug resistance. However, regulation of CSCs at the molecular level is not fully understood. microRNAs (miRNAs) have been identified as key regulators of CSCs by modulating their major functions: self-renewal capacity, invasion, migration and proliferation. Various studies suggest that metformin, an anti-diabetic drug, has an anti-tumor activity but its precise mechanism of action has not been understood. The present article was written in accordance to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. We systematically reviewed evidence for metformin’s ability to eradicate CSCs through modulating the expression of miRNAs in various solid tumors. PubMed and MEDLINE were searched from January 1990 to January 2020 for in vitro studies. Two authors independently selected and reviewed articles according to predefined eligibility criteria and assessed risk of bias of included studies. Four papers met the inclusion criteria and presented low risk bias. All of the included studies reported a suppression of CSCs’ major function after metformin dosage. Moreover, it was showed that metformin anti-tumor mechanism of action is based on regulation of miRNAs expression. Metformin inhibited cell survival, clonogenicity, wound-healing capacity, sphere formation and promotes chemosensitivity of tumor cells. Due to the small number of publications, aforementioned evidences are limited but may be consider as background for clinical studies.
Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV) Oncolytic Activity in Human Glioma Tumors Is Dependent on CDKN2A-Type I IFN Gene Cluster Codeletion
Authors: García-Romero Noemi , Palacín-Aliana Irina , Esteban-Rubio Susana , Madurga Rodrigo , Rius-Rocabert Sergio , Carrión-Navarro Josefa , Presa Jesús , Cuadrado-Castano Sara , Sánchez-Gómez Pilar , García-Sastre Adolfo , Nistal-Villan Estanislao , Ayuso-Sacido Angel
Published: June 2020

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive and frequent primary brain tumor in adults with a median overall survival of 15 months. Tumor recurrence and poor prognosis are related to cancer stem cells (CSCs), which drive resistance to therapies. A common characteristic in GBM is CDKN2A gene loss, located close to the cluster of type I IFN genes at Ch9p21. Newcastle disease virus (NDV) is an avian paramyxovirus with oncolytic and immunostimulatory properties that has been proposed for the treatment of GBM. We have analyzed the CDKN2A-IFN I gene cluster in 1018 glioma tumors and evaluated the NDV oncolytic effect in six GBM CSCs ex vivo and in a mouse model. Our results indicate that more than 50% of GBM patients have some IFN deletion. Moreover, GBM susceptibility to NDV is dependent on the loss of the type I IFN. Infection of GBM with an NDV-expressing influenza virus NS1 protein can overcome the resistance to oncolysis by NDV of type I-competent cells. These results highlight the potential of using NDV vectors in antitumor therapies.
Synthesis, Characterization and Biological Studies of Ether–Based Ferrocenyl Amides and their Organic Analogues
Authors: Waseem Abbasi Sana , Ali Naveed Zafar , Etter Martin , Shabbir Muhammad , Akhter Zareen , Smith Stacey J. , Ismail Hammad , Mirza Bushra
Published: June 2020

Ferrocenyl amides (FB1-FB13) and their organic analogues (BZ1-BZ13) were prepared by a low-temperature condensation method. Ferrocenyl amides were synthesised using 4-ferrocenylbenzoyl chloride and ether-based amines and diamines. Benzoyl chloride was used to synthesise organic analogues by reacting with various amines. The synthesised compounds were characterised by elemental, spectroscopic (FT-IR and NMR) and single crystal X-ray diffraction methods. Crystal structures of the representative organic analogues (BZ2 and BZ6) were solved by single crystal X-ray diffraction. BZ2 crystallises in the triclinic space group P 1 ¯ with a unit cell volume of V = 1056.6(3) Å3 and with two formula units per unit cell. Whereas BZ6 assembles in the orthorhombic space group Pbca with four formula units per unit cell and a unit cell volume of V = 1354.7(2) Å3. Spectral studies confirmed the presence of amide linkages in the synthesised compound with a strong N—H·····O=C hydrogen bonding network established between amide groups of neighbouring molecular scaffolds further stabilising the molecular stacking in accordance with the archetypal crystal structures. The bioactive nature of each compound was assessed by DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) free radical scavenging activity, hydrogen peroxide scavenging activity and total antioxidant activity. Antidiabetic, anticholinesterase enzyme inhibition tests, as well as antibacterial activities, were performed showing significant biological activity for ferrocenyl amides as compared to their organic analogues.
Comparison of Clinical Outcomes between Idiopathic Frozen Shoulder and Diabetic Frozen Shoulder After a Single Ultrasound-Guided Intra-Articular Corticosteroid Injection
Authors: Cho Chul-Hyun , Jin Hyo-Joon , Kim Du Hwan
Published: June 2020

There is no consensus on the use of intra-articular corticosteroid injections in diabetic frozen shoulder (FS). Thus, we aimed to compare clinical outcomes after intra-articular corticosteroid injections in patients with diabetic FS and idiopathic FS. Data collected from 142 FS patients who received glenohumeral joint intra-articular corticosteroid injections were retrospectively reviewed. Thirty-two patients were diagnosed with diabetic FS and 110 patients with idiopathic FS. Data including visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, subjective shoulder value (SSV), and passive range of motion (ROM) were compared before the injection and at 3, 6, and 12 weeks after the injection. There were significant improvements in all outcomes (p < 0.001 for all parameters) through 12 weeks in both groups. There were no significant differences in all outcomes, except for ASES scores, between both groups at 3 weeks. However, there were significant differences in VAS score, SSVs, ASES scores, and passive ROMs, except for angle of abduction, between the two groups at 6 weeks and 12 weeks after injection. A single intra-articular steroid injection can be used as a conservative treatment for diabetic FS, but less effective than for idiopathic FS.
Changes in 3-, 2-Monochloropropandiol and Glycidyl Esters during a Conventional Baking System with Addition of Antioxidants
Authors: Goh Kok Ming , Wong Yu Hua , Abas Faridah , Lai Oi Ming , Mat Yusoff Masni , Tan Tai Boon , Wang Yonghua , Nehdi Imeddedine Arbi , Tan Chin Ping
Published: June 2020

Shortening derived from palm oil is widely used in baking applications. However, palm oil and the related products are reported to contain high levels of monochloropropandiol (MCPD) ester and glycidyl ester (GE). MCPD and glycidol are known as process contaminants, which are carcinogenic and genotoxic compounds, respectively. The objective was to evaluate the effects of antioxidant addition in palm olein and stearin to the content of MCPD esters and GE in baked cake. Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), rosemary extract and tocopherol were used to fortify the samples at 200 mg/kg and in combinations (400, 600 and 800 mg/kg rosemary or tocopherol combined with 200 mg/kg BHA). The MCPD esters and GE content, radical formation and the quality of the fats portion were analyzed. The results showed that palm olein fortified with rosemary extract yielded less 2-MCPD ester. The GE content was lower when soft stearin was fortified with rosemary. ESR spectrometry measurements showed that the antioxidants were effective to reduce radical formation. The synergistic effects of combining antioxidants controlled the contaminants formation. In conclusion, oxidation stability was comparable either in the single or combined antioxidants. Tocopherol in combination with BHA was more effective in controlling the MCPD esters and GE formation.
Down-Sampling of Large LiDAR Dataset in the Context of Off-Road Objects Extraction
Authors: Błaszczak-Bąk Wioleta , Janicka Joanna , Suchocki Czesław , Masiero Andrea , Sobieraj-Żłobińska Anna
Published: June 2020

Nowadays, LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) is used in many fields, such as transportation. Thanks to the recent technological improvements, the current generation of LiDAR mapping instruments available on the market allows to acquire up to millions of three-dimensional (3D) points per second. On the one hand, such improvements allowed the development of LiDAR-based systems with increased productivity, enabling the quick acquisition of detailed 3D descriptions of the objects of interest. However, on the other hand, the extraction of the information of interest from such huge amount of acquired data can be quite challenging and time demanding. Motivated by such observation, this paper proposes the use of the Optimum Dataset method in order to ease and speed up the information extraction phase by significantly reducing the size of the acquired dataset while preserving (retain) the information of interest. This paper focuses on the data reduction of LiDAR datasets acquired on roads, with the goal of extraction the off-road objects. Mostly motivated by the need of mapping roads and quickly determining car position along a road, the development of efficient methods for the extraction of such kind of information is becoming a hot topic in the research community.
Cell Culture on Low-Fluorescence and High-Resolution Photoresist
Authors: Ueno Hidetaka , Maruo Katsuya , Inoue Masatoshi , Kotera Hidetoshi , Suzuki Takaaki
Published: June 2020

2D and 3D topographic cues made of photoresist, a polymer, are used for cell culture and cell analysis. Photoresists used for cell analysis provide the surface conditions necessary for proper cell growth, along with patterning properties of a wide range and high precision, and low auto-fluorescence that does not affect fluorescence imaging. In this study, we developed a thick negative photoresist SJI-001 possessing the aforementioned properties. We evaluated the surface conditions of SJI-001 affecting cell culture. First, we studied the wettability of SJI-001, which was changed by plasma treatment, conducted as a pretreatment on a plastic substrate before cell seeding. SJI-001 was more chemically stable than SU-8 used for fabricating the micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS). Furthermore, the doubling time and adhesion rate of adherent HeLa cells cultured on untreated SJI-001 were 25.2 h and 74%, respectively, thus indicating its suitability for cell culture over SU-8. In addition, we fabricated a cell culture plate with a 3D lattice structure, three micrometers in size, using SJI-001. HeLa cells seeded on this plate remained attached over five days. Therefore, SJI-001 exhibits surface conditions suitable for cell culture and has several bioapplications including microstructures and cell chips for cell culture and cell analysis.
Considerations for and Guidance to Testing and Evaluating Migration/Release of Nanoparticles from Polymer Based Nanocomposites
Authors: Franz Roland , Bott Johannes , Störmer Angela
Published: June 2020

The use of nanoadditives in food contact materials requires risk assessment to ensure consumers’ safety. The evaluation of health risk is based on the combination of two elements: hazard and exposure. For nanomaterials (NM) used as additives in nanocomposites, the exposure is directly linked to the level of migration or release of the NM into the food. In principle, appropriate methods for experimental determination and theoretical estimation of migration are available but need diligent considerations to avoid erroneous conclusions from the measured data. We propose a comprehensive test scheme based on these methods, starting with characterization of the nanomaterial itself and when incorporated in the polymer. These data form the basis for making a decision whether migration of the NM can be excluded by migration theoretical considerations or if experimental migration testing and/or abrasion testing for mechanical release should be carried out. Guidance to and considerations for each of these steps and regarding the applicable methods are discussed. In conclusion, the results will provide a basis for risk assessment, either directly when exposure of consumers to the nanomaterials can be excluded or will be very low or, in the case of evidenced exposure, in combination with then needed toxicological data.
Formulation and Characterization of Gelatin-Based Hydrogels for the Encapsulation of Kluyveromyces lactis—Applications in Packed-Bed Reactors and Probiotics Delivery in Humans
Authors: Patarroyo Jorge Luis , Florez-Rojas Juan Sebastian , Pradilla Diego , Valderrama-Rincón Juan D. , Cruz Juan C. , Reyes Luis H.
Published: June 2020

One of the main issues when orally administering microorganism-based probiotics is the significant loss of bioactivity as they pass through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. To overcome these issues, here, we propose to encapsulate the probiotic yeast Kluyveromyces lactis on chemically crosslinked gelatin hydrogels as a means to protect the bioactive agents in different environments. Hydrogels were prepared by the chemical crosslinking of gelatin, which is commercially available and inexpensive. This is crucial to ensure scalability and cost-effectiveness. To explore changes in key physicochemical parameters and their impact on cell viability, we varied the concentration of the crosslinking agent (glutaraldehyde) and the gelatin. The synthesized hydrogels were characterized in terms of morphological, physical-chemical, mechanical, thermal and rheological properties. This comprehensive characterization allowed us to identify critical parameters to facilitate encapsulation and enhance cell survival. Mainly due to pore size in the range of 5–10 μm, sufficient rigidity (breaking forces of about 1 N), low brittleness and structural stability under swelling and relatively high shear conditions, we selected hydrogels with a high concentration of gelatin (7.5% (w/v)) and concentrations of the crosslinking agent of 3.0% and 5.0% (w/w) for cell encapsulation. Yeasts were encapsulated with an efficiency of about 10% and subsequently tested in bioreactor operation and GI tract simulated media, thereby leading to cell viability levels that approached 95% and 50%, respectively. After testing, the hydrogels’ firmness was only reduced to half of the initial value and maintained resistance to shear even under extreme pH conditions. The mechanisms underlying the observed mechanical response will require further investigation. These encouraging results, added to the superior structural stability after the treatments, indicate that the proposed encapsulates are suitable to overcome most of the major issues of oral administration of probiotics and open the possibility to explore additional biotech applications further.
A Multivariate Model to Quantify and Mitigate Cybersecurity Risk
Authors: Bentley Mark , Stephenson Alec , Toscas Peter , Zhu Zili
Published: June 2020

The cost of cybersecurity incidents is large and growing. However, conventional methods for measuring loss and choosing mitigation strategies use simplifying assumptions and are often not supported by cyber attack data. In this paper, we present a multivariate model for different, dependent types of attack and the effect of mitigation strategies on those attacks. Utilising collected cyber attack data and assumptions on mitigation approaches, we look at an example of using the model to optimise the choice of mitigations. We find that the optimal choice of mitigations will depend on the goal—to prevent extreme damages or damage on average. Numerical experiments suggest the dependence aspect is important and can alter final risk estimates by as much as 30%. The methodology can be used to quantify the cost of cyber attacks and support decision making on the choice of optimal mitigation strategies.