bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distinguishing the Mélange-Forming Processes in Subduction-Accretion Complexes: Constraints from the Anisotropy of Magnetic Susceptibility (AMS)
Authors: Robustelli Test Claudio , Festa Andrea , Zanella Elena , Codegone Giulia , Scaramuzzo Emanuele
Published: September 2019

The strong morphological similitude of the block-in-matrix fabric of chaotic rock units (mélanges and broken formations) makes problematic the recognition of their primary forming-processes. We present results of the comparison between magnetic fabric and mesoscale structural investigations of non-metamorphic tectonic, sedimentary, and polygenetic mélanges in the exhumed Late Cretaceous to early Eocene Ligurian accretionary complex and overlying wedge-top basin succession in the Northern Apennines (northwest Italy). Our findings show that the magnetic fabric reveals diagnostic configurations of principal anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS) axes orientation that are well comparable with the mesoscale block-in-matrix fabric of mélanges formed by different processes. Broken formations and tectonic mélanges show prolate and neutral-to-oblate ellipsoids, respectively, with magnetic fabric elements being consistent with those of the mesoscale anisotropic “structurally ordered” block-in-matrix fabric. Sedimentary mélanges show an oblate ellipsoid with a clear sedimentary magnetic fabric related to downslope gravitational emplacement. Polygenetic mélanges show the occurrence of a cumulative depositional and tectonic magnetic fabric. The comparison of field and laboratory investigations validate the analysis of magnetic features as a diagnostic tool suitable to analytically distinguish the contribution of different mélange forming-processes and their mutual superposition, and to better understand the geodynamic evolution of subduction-accretion complexes.
Beliefs, Attitudes, and Confidence to Deliver Electronic Cigarette Counseling among 1023 Chinese Physicians in 2018
Authors: Feng Yitian , Wang Fan , Abdullah Abu S. , Wang Xiaoyan , Wang Jing , Zheng Pinpin
Published: September 2019

Background: The use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) is gaining popularity, so it is important to evaluate physicians’ understanding of e-cigarettes. This study assessed the beliefs, attitudes, and confidence in e-cigarette counseling among Chinese physicians and explored the factors related to asking patients about e-cigarette use. Methods: Physicians from across China were invited to participate in a questionnaire survey using the platform provided by DXY (www.dxy.cn) in 2018. In total, 1023 physicians completed the online survey. Descriptive analyses were used to characterize the participants, and multivariate logistic regression analyses were applied to identify predictors of physicians’ asking about patients’ e-cigarette use. Results: Only 46.3% of respondents agreed that e-cigarettes had adverse health effects, and 66.8% indicated that e-cigarettes can be regarded as a type of smoking cessation treatment. We found that 61.3% thought it was important to discuss e-cigarettes with patients, and 71.7% reported feeling confident about their ability in counseling about e-cigarettes. Respondents who had used e-cigarettes (OR = 2.05; 95% CI: 1.16–2.63), had received training about e-cigarettes (OR = 3.13; 95% CI: 2.17–4.52), or were confident about their ability to answer patients’ question about e-cigarettes (OR = 2.45; 95% CI: 1.65–3.65) were more likely to ask patients about e-cigarette use. Physicians who showed a supportive attitude toward using e-cigarettes to quit smoking (OR = 0.79; 95% CI: 0.63–0.99) were less likely to ask about patients’ e-cigarettes use frequently. Conclusions: Chinese physicians appeared to ignore the adverse health effects of e-cigarettes, and considered e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation treatment. Comprehensive training and regulations are needed to help physicians incorporate the screening of e-cigarette use into routine practice and provide patients truthful information as new data emerge.
Remediation of Soil Polluted by Organic Compounds Through Chemical Oxidation and Phytoremediation Combined with DCT
Authors: Rada Elena Cristina , Andreottola Gianni , Istrate Irina Aura , Viotti Paolo , Conti Fabio , Magaril Elena Romenovna
Published: September 2019

Soils contaminated with organic substances is an important issue across Europe: In some areas, these are the main causes of pollution, or the second after contamination from waste disposal. This paper included an experimental application that compared three methods of remediation of contaminated sites, based on electric fields: A single treatment (electroremediation); and two combined treatments, phyto-electrochemical and electrooxidation (a combination of chemical treatment and a DCT—direct current technology). The contaminated soil was taken from a former industrial area devoted to oil refining, located between two roads: The one national and the other one for industrial use. Nine soil samples were collected at two depths (0.2 and 0.4 m). The initial characterization of the soil showed a density of 1.5 g/cm³ and a moisture of about 20%; regarding grain size, 50% of the soil had particles with a diameter less than 0.08 mm. The electrochemical treatment and electrooxidation had an efficiency of 20% while the two combined methods had efficiencies of 42.5% for electrooxidation (with H2O2) and 20% for phyto-electroremediation (phyto-ER) with poinsettias.
The Association between Eating-Out Rate and BMI in Korea
Authors: Kim Hwi Jun , Oh So Yeon , Choi Dong-Woo , Park Eun-Cheol
Published: September 2019

Previous research suggests that adult men consume larger amounts of calories while eating-out than when eating meals prepared at home. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the association between the daily eating-out rate and body mass index (BMI) in the Korean population. The study used data from 18,019 individuals aged ≥19 years who participated in the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) from 2013 to 2016. BMI was measured according to the Asia-Pacific BMI measurement criteria. A multinomial logistic regression analysis was used to examine the validity of the association between the eating-out rate and BMI. In this population, women with higher eating-out rates were found to have higher BMIs. Specifically, the risks of becoming obese or overweight increased among those with a 1%–50% (obesity odds ratio (OR) = 1.28, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.09–1.51; overweight OR = 1.38, 95% CI: 1.14–1.64) or 51%–100% daily eating-out rate (obesity OR = 1.51, 95% CI: 1.24–1.84; overweight OR = 1.50, 95% CI: 1.20–1.87), relative to those who reported never eating-out. By contrast, no statistically significant association between the daily eating-out rate and BMI was observed among men. Notably, we observed positive associations of the daily eating-out rate with obesity and being overweight in South Korean women, but not men. Our findings suggest that education about proper habits when eating-out is needed to prevent obesity.
Results of a Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial to Promote the Use of Respiratory Protective Equipment among Migrant Workers Exposed to Organic Solvents in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises
Authors: Chen Wen , Li Tongyang , Zou Guanyang , Renzaho Andre M.N. , Li Xudong , Shi Leiyu , Ling Li
Published: September 2019

Background: Existing evidence shows an urgent need to improve respiratory protective equipment (RPE) use, and more so among migrant workers in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a behavioral intervention in promoting the appropriate use of RPE among internal migrant workers (IMWs) exposed to organic solvents in SMEs. Methods: A cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted among 1211 IMWs from 60 SMEs in Baiyun district in Guangzhou, China. SMEs were deemed eligible if organic solvents were constantly used in the production process and provided workers with RPE. There were 60 SMEs randomized to three interventions on a 1:1:1 ratio, namely a top-down intervention (TDI), a comprehensive intervention, and a control group which did not receive any intervention. IMWs in the comprehensive intervention received a module encompassing three intervention activities: An occupational health education and training component (lectures and leaflets/posters), an mHealth component in the form of messages illustrative pictures and short videos, and a peer education component. The TDI incorporated two intervention activities, namely the mHealth and occupational health education and training components. The primary outcome was the self-reported appropriate RPE use among IMWs, defined as using an appropriate RPE against organic solvents at all times during the last week before measurement. Secondary outcomes included IMWs’ occupational health knowledge, attitude towards RPE use, and participation in occupational health check-ups. Data were collected and assessed at baseline, and three and six months of the intervention. Generalized linear mixed models were performed to evaluate the effectiveness of the trial. Results: Between 3 August 2015 and 29 January 2016, 20 SMEs with 368 IMWs, 20 SMEs with 390 IMWs, and 20 SMEs with 453 IMWs were assigned to the comprehensive intervention, the TDI, and the control group, respectively. At three months, there were no significant differences in the primary and secondary outcomes among the three groups. At six months, IMWs in both intervention groups were more likely to appropriately use RPE than the control group (comprehensive intervention: Adjusted odds ratio: 2.99, 95% CI: 1.75–5.10, p < 0.001; TDI: 1.91, 95% CI: 1.17–3.11, and p = 0.009). Additionally, compared with the control group, the comprehensive intervention also improved all three secondary outcomes. Conclusions: Both comprehensive and top-down interventions were effective in promoting the appropriate use of RPE among IMWs in SMEs. The comprehensive intervention also enhanced IMWs’ occupational health knowledge, attitude, and practice. Trial registration: ChiCTR-IOR-15006929. Registered on 15 August 2015.
Effect of Aggression on Peer Acceptance Among Adolescents During School Transition and Non-Transition: Focusing on the Moderating Effects of Gender and Physical Education Activities
Authors: Shin Myoungjin , Lee Changhyun , Lee Yongsik
Published: September 2019

The present study examined the effect of aggression on peer acceptance among adolescents. We focused on the moderating effects of gender and participation in physical education activities and examined whether these effects varied during school transition. We used longitudinal data of adolescents aged 10 to 17 years that were obtained from a survey that was conducted by the National Youth Policy Institute. In only early adolescence, the interaction effect of gender and physical education activity influenced the relationship between aggression and peer acceptance. Specifically, the negative relationship between aggression and peer acceptance was strengthened among female students who participated in physical education activities as compared to female students who did not. This effect was not observed in male students. However, during transition from primary to secondary school, the negative effect of physical education activities did not exist. For middle-adolescents, for whom physical education activities increased more than previous years, the negative relationship between aggression and peer acceptance worsened. These influences were the same, regardless of gender. Thus, this study suggests that physical education activities improve the negative relationship between aggression and peer acceptance during school transition.
Relationship between Sleep Bruxism, Perceived Stress, and Coping Strategies
Authors: Saczuk Klara , Lapinska Barbara , Wilmont Paulina , Pawlak Lukasz , Lukomska-Szymanska Monika
Published: September 2019

Sleep bruxism (SB) is a common phenomenon defined as a masticatory muscle activity during sleep. Untreated severe SB can have significant dental and orofacial consequences. SB has often been linked with stress and maladaptive coping strategies. Therefore, in this study, a potential correlation between SB, perceived stress and coping strategies was evaluated. A total of 60 adults were enrolled into this study. Participants underwent a detailed intra- and extraoral exam focused on detecting bruxism symptoms. Additionally, the overnight Bruxism Index was recorded using the Bruxoff device. A total of 35 participants with symptoms of bruxism were assigned to the study group, whereas 25 asymptomatic participants were assigned to the control group. The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) was used for stress assessment and Brief-COPE for coping strategies. Results showed that the higher the PSS-10 score, the higher the Bruxism Index was in the study group. Positive coping strategies were chosen most frequently in the control group, while maladaptive ones were chosen in the study group. It can be concluded that there is a relationship between perceived stress and sleep bruxism. Moreover, the type of coping strategies used by participants may have an impact on sleep bruxism, but the relationship should be further investigated.
Gold Nanoparticle Enhanced Proton Therapy: Monte Carlo Modeling of Reactive Species’ Distributions Around a Gold Nanoparticle and the Effects of Nanoparticle Proximity and Clustering
Authors: Peukert Dylan , Kempson Ivan , Douglass Michael , Bezak Eva
Published: September 2019

Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) are promising radiosensitizers with the potential to enhance radiotherapy. Experiments have shown GNP enhancement of proton therapy and indicated that chemical damage by reactive species plays a major role. Simulations of the distribution and yield of reactive species from 10 ps to 1 µs produced by a single GNP, two GNPs in proximity and a GNP cluster irradiated with a proton beam were performed using the Geant4 Monte Carlo toolkit. It was found that the reactive species distribution at 1 µs extended a few hundred nm from a GNP and that the largest enhancement occurred over 50 nm from the nanoparticle. Additionally, the yield for two GNPs in proximity and a GNP cluster was reduced by up to 17% and 60% respectively from increased absorption. The extended range of action from the diffusion of the reactive species may enable simulations to model GNP enhanced proton therapy. The high levels of absorption for a large GNP cluster suggest that smaller clusters and diffuse GNP distributions maximize the total radiolysis yield within a cell. However, this must be balanced against the high local yields near a cluster particularly if the cluster is located adjacent to a biological target.
Coordinate Regulation of Cholesterol and Bile Acid Metabolism by the Clock Modifier Nobiletin in Metabolically Challenged Old Mice
Authors: Nohara Kazunari , Nemkov Travis , D’Alessandro Angelo , Yoo Seung-Hee , Chen Zheng
Published: September 2019

Cholesterol and bile acid (BA) homeostasis plays a central role in systemic metabolism. Accumulating evidence suggests a key regulatory function of the circadian clock, our biological timer, in lipid metabolism, particularly cholesterol and bile acid flux. Previously, we showed that Nobiletin (NOB), a natural compound targeting the ROR (Retinoic acid receptor-related orphan receptor) nuclear receptors in the circadian oscillator, strongly protects lipid homeostasis, including normal serum cholesterol levels in high-fat (HF) fed mice at both young and old ages. In this study, we further examined the role of NOB in cholesterol metabolism in HF-fed aged mice, and found that NOB lowered the serum LDL/VLDL cholesterol levels and consequently the LDL/HDL ratio. BA levels in the serum were markedly reduced in the HF.NOB group, and examination of additional hepatic markers further indicate a protective role of NOB in the liver. At the molecular level, whereas HF feeding downregulated hepatic expression of several ROR target genes involved in bile acid synthesis, NOB treatment (HF.NOB) was able to rescue it. In accordance, fecal BA excretion was enhanced by NOB, and microbial 16S sequencing revealed alteration of several taxa known to be involved in secondary BA production in the gut. Together, these results demonstrate concerted effects of the clock-modulating compound NOB in cholesterol and BA metabolism, suggesting pharmacological manipulation of the clock as a novel therapeutic strategy against metabolic disorders and age-related decline.
Pan-HDAC Inhibitors Promote Tau Aggregation by Increasing the Level of Acetylated Tau
Authors: Jeong Hyeanjeong , Shin Seulgi , Lee Jun-Seok , Lee Soo Hyun , Baik Ja-Hyun , Lim Sungsu , Kim Yun Kyung
Published: September 2019

Epigenetic remodeling via histone acetylation has become a popular therapeutic strategy to treat Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In particular, histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors including M344 and SAHA have been elucidated to be new drug candidates for AD, improving cognitive abilities impaired in AD mouse models. Although emerged as a promising target for AD, most of the HDAC inhibitors are poorly selective and could cause unwanted side effects. Here we show that tau is one of the cytosolic substrates of HDAC and the treatment of HDAC inhibitors such as Scriptaid, M344, BML281, and SAHA could increase the level of acetylated tau, resulting in the activation of tau pathology.
Newborn Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia Screening Programme: Automating and Enhancing the System to Evaluate the Screening Programme
Authors: Coppinger Catherine , O’Loughlin Robyn
Published: September 2019

Good information is needed to demonstrate that a screening programme is meeting its objectives, to measure performance against standards and to ensure that action is taken if standards are not met. In 2010, the NHS Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia (SCT) Screening Programme established a process to collect data on the main outcome measures for newborn babies. In 2016, a review identified that data completeness and quality relied on manual processes and there was widespread dissatisfaction amongst data providers due to duplication of data entry, poor feedback and lack of oversight of the baby to ensure safe handover from screening into treatment services. Using an Agile service design process and following the Government Digital Service Model, the SCT Screening Programme worked in close collaboration with users, wider stakeholders and system suppliers to design and build a new automated system. The new system ensures that the screening programme can fulfil its duty to evaluate the effectiveness of the programme, whilst pleasing the users and enhancing safety. User experience must be central to design and ongoing development to ensure that a new IT system is fit for purpose and adopted by users.
Towards A Taxonomy of Uncertainties: Analysing Sources of Spatio-Temporal Uncertainty on the Example of Non-Standard German Corpora
Authors: Rocha Souza Renato , Dorn Amelie , Piringer Barbara , Wandl-Vogt Eveline
Published: September 2019

Different types of uncertainties occur in almost all datasets and are an inherent property of data across different academic disciplines, including digital humanities (DH). In this paper, we address, demonstrate and analyse spatio-temporal uncertainties in a non-standard German legacy dataset in a DH context. Although the data collection is primarily a linguistic resource, it contains a wealth of additional, comprehensive information, such as location and temporal detail. The addressed uncertainties have manifested because of a variety of reasons, and partly also because of decades of data transformation processes. We here propose our own taxonomy for capturing and classifying the various uncertainties, and show with numerous examples how the remedying but also re-introduction of uncertainties affects DH practices.
The Role of Academia in Reorientation Models of Care—Insights on eHealth
Authors: Hussey Pamela , McGlinn Kris
Published: September 2019

This paper provides a summary of progress on implementation research conducted to deliver evidence-based informatics infrastructure and guidance resources to advance integrated care in Ireland. (1) Background: The International Classification for Nursing Practice (ICNP©) R&D centre has progressed with its agenda to advance informatics theory and optimise the nursing contribution within eHealth Ireland. The centre has evolved as a formal multi-disciplinary research centre in Dublin City University expanding its research activity to become the Centre for eIntegrated Care (CeIC). The mission of the CeIC is to advance eIntegrated care in order to improve health and wellbeing of citizens; (2) Methods: In this paper, CeIC offers insights into the specific approaches adopted to realise this vision using Innovation 2.0 and Open Science as an emerging paradigm and rigorous methodology to drive transformational change; (3) Conclusions; we provide here a summary of our activity and discuss our experiences to date. We present detail on our progress through three core viewpoints namely (1) the individual and stakeholder engagement; (2) the development of technology infrastructure and (3) the political process considering the academic role in advancing informatics research. Our conclusions suggest that one needs to intrinsically link all three perspectives and provide focused interactions in order to bring about sustainable change for progression of eHealth.
Low Serum Paraoxonase-1 Activity Associates with Incident Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Subjects with Concurrently High Levels of High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol and C-Reactive Protein
Authors: Corsetti James P. , Sparks Charles E. , James Richard W. , Bakker Stephan J. L. , Dullaart Robin P. F.
Published: September 2019

Paroxonase-1 (PON1) is a key enzyme that inhibits low-density lipoprotein oxidation and consequently atherogenesis. Here, we assessed whether low serum PON1 activity associates with incident cardiovascular disease (CVD) in subjects with high levels of high-density cholesterol (HDL-C) and C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of low-grade systemic inflammation. Cox proportional-hazards modeling of incident CVD risk (11 years mean follow-up) adjusted for relevant clinical and biomarker covariates was performed on a population-based study (N = 7766) stratified into three groups: low CRP—(LR; event rate 4.9%); low HDL-C/high CRP—(HR1; event rate 14.4%); and high HDL-C/high CRP—(HR2; event rate 7.6%). Modeling results for PON1 activity in HR2 were significant and robust (hazard ratio/SD unit—0.68, 95% CI 0.55–0.83, p = 0.0003), but not so for LR and HR1. Analyses in HR2 of the interaction of PON1 with HDL-C, apoA-I, apoA-II, and apoE levels were significant only for PON1 with apoE (hazard ratio—1.77, 95% CI 1.29–2.41, p = 0.0003). Subsequent subgroup analysis revealed inverse risk dependence for apoE at low PON1 levels. In conclusion, in a population-based study of subjects with concurrently high HDL-C and CRP levels, low serum PON1 activity associates with incident CVD risk with risk accentuated at low apoE levels.
Prognostic Factors for Re-Arrest with Shockable Rhythm during Target Temperature Management in Out-Of-Hospital Shockable Cardiac Arrest Patients
Authors: Ryoo Seung Mok , Lee Dong Hun , Lee Byung Kook , Youn Chun Song , Kim Youn-Jung , Kim Su Jin , Kim Yong Hwan , Kim Won Young
Published: September 2019

Re-arrest during post-cardiac arrest care after the return of spontaneous circulation is not uncommon. However, little is known about the risk factors associated with re-arrest. A previous study failed to show a benefit of prophylactic antiarrhythmic drug infusion in all kinds of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) survivors. This study evaluated high-risk OHCA survivors who may have re-arrest with shockable rhythm during targeted temperature management (TTM). Medical records of consecutive OHCA survivors treated with TTM at four tertiary referral university hospitals in the Republic of Korea between January 2010 and December 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients who did not have any shockable rhythm during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or unknown initial rhythm were excluded. The primary outcome of interest was the recurrence of shockable cardiac arrest during TTM. There were 289 cases of initial shockable arrest rhythm and 132 cases of shockable rhythm during CPR. Of the 421 included patients, 11.4% of patients had a shockable re-arrest during TTM. Survival to discharge and good neurologic outcomes did not differ between non-shockable and shockable re-arrest patients (78.3% vs. 72.9%, p = 0.401; 53.1% vs. 54.2% p = 0.887). Initial serum magnesium level, ST segment depression or ventricular premature complex (VPC) in initial electrocardiography (ECG), prophylactic amiodarone infusion, and dopamine and norepinephrine infusion during TTM were significantly higher and more frequent in the shockable re-arrest group (all p values < 0.05). Normal ST and T wave in initial ECG was common in the non-shockable re-arrest group (p = 0.038). However, in multivariate logistic regression analysis, only VPC was an independent prognostic factor for shockable re-arrest (OR 2.806 (95% CI 1.276–6.171), p = 0.010). Initial VPC may be a prognostic risk factor for shockable re-arrest in OHCA survivors with shockable rhythm.
Alterations in Alzheimer’s Disease-Associated Gene Expression in Severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea Patients
Authors: Li Hsueh-Yu , Tsai Ming-Shao , Huang Chung-Guei , Wang Robert , Chuang Li-Pang , Chen Ning-Hung , Liu Chi-Hung , Hsu Cheng-Ming , Cheng Wen-Nuan , Lee Li-Ang
Published: September 2019

Background: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) increases the risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and inflammation may be involved in the early pathogenesis of AD in patients with OSA. However, the potential pathways between OSA and AD have yet to be established. In this study, we aimed to investigate differential expressions of AD-associated genes in OSA patients without evident AD or dementia. Methods: This prospective case-control study included five patients with severe OSA and five age and sex-matched patients with non-severe OSA without evident dementia who underwent uvulopalatopharyngoplasty between 1 January 2013 and 31 December 2015. The expressions of genes associated with AD were analyzed using whole-exome sequencing. Unsupervised two-dimensional hierarchical clustering was performed on these genes. Pearson’s correlation was used as the distance metric to simultaneously cluster subjects and genes. Results: The expressions of CCL2, IL6, CXCL8, HLA-A, and IL1RN in the patients with severe OSA were significantly different from those in the patients with non-severe OSA and contributed to changes in the immune response, cytokine–cytokine receptor interactions, and nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor signaling pathways. Conclusions: Inflammation may contribute to the onset of AD and physicians need to be aware of the potential occurrence of AD in patients with severe OSA.
Evaluating the Rheological and Tribological Behaviors of Coconut Oil Modified with Nanoparticles as Lubricant Additives
Authors: Cortes Vicente , Ortega Javier A.
Published: September 2019

In metal-forming processes, the use of lubricants for providing desirable tribological conditions at the tool–workpiece interface is critical to increase the material formability and prolonging tool life. Nowadays, the depletion of crude oil reserves in the world and the global concern in protecting the environment from contamination have renewed interest in developing environmentally-friendly lubricants derived from alternative sources such as vegetable oils. In the present study, the rheological and tribological behavior of coconut oil modified with nanoparticle additives was experimentally evaluated. Two different nanoparticle additives were investigated: Silicon dioxide (SiO2) and copper oxide (CuO). For the two conditions, nanoparticles were dispersed at different concentrations within the coconut oil. The effects of concentration and shear rate on the viscosity were evaluated and the experimental data was compared with conventional models. A custom-made tribotester was used to evaluate the effect of concentration on the tribological performance of the nano-lubricants. The experimental results showed that wear volume loss was lowered by 37% and 33% using SiO2 and CuO nanoparticles, respectively. Furthermore, the addition of SiO2 and CuO nanoparticles decreased the coefficient of friction (COF) by 93.75% and 93.25%, respectively, as compared to coconut oil without nanoparticles.
A Distributed Control Problem for a Fractional Tumor Growth Model
Authors: Colli Pierluigi , Gilardi Gianni , Sprekels Jürgen
Published: September 2019

In this paper, we study the distributed optimal control of a system of three evolutionary equations involving fractional powers of three self-adjoint, monotone, unbounded linear operators having compact resolvents. The system is a generalization of a Cahn–Hilliard type phase field system modeling tumor growth that has been proposed by Hawkins–Daarud, van der Zee and Oden. The aim of the control process, which could be realized by either administering a drug or monitoring the nutrition, is to keep the tumor cell fraction under control while avoiding possible harm for the patient. In contrast to previous studies, in which the occurring unbounded operators governing the diffusional regimes were all given by the Laplacian with zero Neumann boundary conditions, the operators may in our case be different; more generally, we consider systems with fractional powers of the type that were studied in a recent work by the present authors. In our analysis, we show the Fréchet differentiability of the associated control-to-state operator, establish the existence of solutions to the associated adjoint system, and derive the first-order necessary conditions of optimality for a cost functional of tracking type.
Applications of the Fractional Diffusion Equation to Option Pricing and Risk Calculations
Authors: Aguilar Jean-Philippe , Korbel Jan , Luchko Yuri
Published: September 2019

In this article, we first provide a survey of the exponential option pricing models and show that in the framework of the risk-neutral approach, they are governed by the space-fractional diffusion equation. Then, we introduce a more general class of models based on the space-time-fractional diffusion equation and recall some recent results in this field concerning the European option pricing and the risk-neutral parameter. We proceed with an extension of these results to the class of exotic options. In particular, we show that the call and put prices can be expressed in the form of simple power series in terms of the log-forward moneyness and the risk-neutral parameter. Finally, we provide the closed-form formulas for the first and second order risk sensitivities and study the dependencies of the portfolio hedging and profit-and-loss calculations upon the model parameters.
Efficacy of Low-Dose Paroxetine for the Treatment of Hot Flushes in Surgical and Physiological Postmenopausal Women: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials
Authors: Riemma Gaetano , Schiattarella Antonio , La Verde Marco , Zarobbi Giuseppina , Garzon Simone , Cucinella Gaspare , Calagna Gloria , Labriola Domenico , De Franciscis Pasquale
Published: September 2019

Background and Objectives: Hot flushes and sleep disturbances are the most common vasomotor symptoms (VMS) reported by postmenopausal women. Hormonal treatment is to date referred to as the gold standard approach but not suitable for all the patients. Alternative treatments are needed in case of a contraindication to menopausal hormone therapy (MHT), adverse side effects, and poor compliance. Paroxetine salt is the only nonhormonal medication approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the management of VMS. Nonetheless, few trials with low consensus are available about this topic. In this review, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy of low-dose paroxetine therapy in the treatment of vasomotor hot flushes and night sleep disturbances in postmenopausal women. Materials and Methods: We performed an electronic search from the beginning of all databases to July 2019. All results were then limited to a randomized trial. Restrictions for language or geographic location were not utilized. Inclusion criteria were randomized clinical trials of physiological or surgical postmenopausal women experiencing hot flushes and sleep disturbances who were randomized to either low-dose paroxetine or placebo (i.e., formulations without active ingredients). The primary outcome evaluated was the mean weekly reduction of hot flushes. Results: Five randomized clinical trials, including 1482 postmenopausal women, were analyzed. Significant heterogeneity (I2 = 90%) between studies was noted. Hot flushes episodes were significantly reduced in the treatment arm compared to placebo (mean difference (MD) −7.97 [−10.51, −5.92] episodes/week). Results on the improvement on sleep were limited by being reported in only two studies; however, no significant reduction of night-time awakenings was observed (MD, −0.40 awakenings/night [−1.38, 0.58 CI]). Conclusions: Low-dose paroxetine is an effective treatment for vasomotor menopause symptoms, including hot flushes.
A Facile Synthesis of (PIM-Polyimide)-(6FDA-Durene-Polyimide) Copolymer as Novel Polymer Membranes for CO2 Separation
Authors: Hossain Iqubal , Al Munsur Abu , Kim Tae-Hyun
Published: September 2019

Random copolymers made of both (PIM-polyimide) and (6FDA-durene-PI) were prepared for the first time by a facile one-step polycondensation reaction. By combining the highly porous and contorted structure of PIM (polymers with intrinsic microporosity) and high thermomechanical properties of PI (polyimide), the membranes obtained from these random copolymers [(PIM-PI)-(6FDA-durene-PI)] showed high CO2 permeability (>1047 Barrer) with moderate CO2/N2 (> 16.5) and CO2/CH4 (> 18) selectivity, together with excellent thermal and mechanical properties. The membranes prepared from three different compositions of two comonomers (1:4, 1:6 and 1:10 of x:y), all showed similar morphological and physical properties, and gas separating performance, indicating ease of synthesis and practicability for production in large scale. The gas separation performance of these membranes at various pressure ranges (100–1500 torr) was also investigated.
Effect of Severe Plastic Deformation on the Conductivity and Strength of Copper-Clad Aluminium Conductors
Authors: Lapovok Rimma , Dubrovsky Michael , Kosinova Anna , Raab Georgy
Published: September 2019

Aluminium rods with different copper sheath thicknesses were processed by severe plastic deformation at room temperature and then annealed, to join the constituent metals and produce a nanocrystalline microstructure. A study of the effects of the deformation parameters, copper cladding thickness and annealing temperature on the electrical conductivity and hardness of the conductors is reported. It is shown that an interface forms between constituents because of intermixing in the course of severe shear deformation under high hydrostatic pressure and diffusion during the subsequent annealing. The effective conductivity of the aluminium copper-clad conductor dropped after deformation, but was recovered during annealing, especially during short annealing at 200 °C, to a level exceeding the theoretically predicted one. In addition, the annealing resulted in increased hardness at the interface and copper sheath.
Clinicopathologic Characteristics of Epstein–Barr Virus-Associated Gastric Cancer Over the Past Decade in Japan
Authors: Yanagi Ayaka , Nishikawa Jun , Shimokuri Kanami , Shuto Takuya , Takagi Tatsuya , Takagi Fumiya , Kobayashi Yuki , Yamamoto Misa , Miura Osamu , Yanai Hideo , Suehiro Yutaka , Yamasaki Takahiro , Yoshiyama Hironori , Sakaida Isao
Published: September 2019

: Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) is a ubiquitous human herpes virus, but related with several types of malignancies. Among EBV-related malignancies, EBV-associated gastric carcinoma (EBVaGC) has the largest patient’s number. We screened for EBV infection in 1067 GC lesions of 1132 patients who underwent surgical resection from 2007 to 2017 in Japan and examined clinicopathological features of EBVaGC. EBV infection was detected by in situ hybridization with EBV-encoded small RNA 1(EBER-1 ISH). EBV was infected in 80 GC lesions (7.1%). Mean age was significantly lower in patients with EBVaGC than with EBV-negative GC. EBVaGC was more frequent in men than in women. EBVaGC was found twice as frequent in the upper or middle stomach as in the lower stomach. Early EBVaGC was more frequent, and submucosally invaded cases were dominant. The presence of lymphatic vessel invasion was less in EBVaGC, but frequency of lymph node metastasis was similar. Carcinoma with lymphoid stroma (CLS) was found in 3.8% (43/1132) of all lesions with 60.5% of EBV positivity. The synchronous or metachronous multiple GC was frequent in EBVaGC. We clarified clinicopathologic characteristics of EBVaGC over the past decade in Japan. EBV infection should be examined in gastric cancer cases showing these characteristics.
Extraction of Boron from Ludwigite Ore: Mechanism of Soda-Ash Roasting of Lizardite and Szaibelyite
Authors: Zhang Xin , Li Guanghui , You Jinxiang , Wang Jian , Luo Jun , Duan Jiaoyang , Zhang Tao , Peng Zhiwei , Rao Mingjun , Jiang Tao
Published: September 2019

Ludwigite ore is a typical low-grade boron ore accounting for 58.5% boron resource of China, which is mainly composed of magnetite, lizardite and szaibelyite. During soda-ash roasting of ludwigite ore, the presence of lizardite hinders the selective activation of boron. In this work, lizardite and szaibelyite were prepared and their soda-ash roasting behaviors were investigated using thermogravimetric-differential scanning calorimetry (TG-DSC), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive spectrometer (SEM-EDS) analyses, in order to shed light on the soda-ash activation of boron within ludwigite ore. Thermodynamics of Na2CO3-MgSiO3-Mg2SiO4-Mg2B2O5 via FactSage show that the formation of Na2MgSiO4 was preferential for the reaction between Na2CO3 and MgSiO3/Mg2SiO4. While, regarding the reaction between Na2CO3 and Mg2B2O5, the formation of NaBO2 was foremost. Raising temperature was beneficial for the soda-ash roasting of lizardite and szaibelyite. At a temperature lower than the melting of sodium carbonate (851 °C), the soda-ash roasting of szaibelyite was faster than that of lizardite. Moreover, the melting of sodium carbonate accelerated the reaction between lizardite with sodium carbonate.
Hybrids of Cinchona Alkaloids and Bile Acids as Antiparasitic Agents Against Trypanosoma cruzi
Authors: Musikant Daniel , Leverrier Aurélie , Bernal Diana , Ferri Gabriel , Palermo Jorge A. , Edreira Martin M.
Published: September 2019

The current chemotherapy of Chagas disease needs to be urgently improved. With this aim, a series of 16 hybrids of Cinchona alkaloids and bile acids were prepared by functionalization at position C-2 of the quinoline nucleus by a radical attack of a norcholane substituent via a Barton–Zard decarboxylation reaction. The antitrypanosomal activity of the hybrids was tested on different stages and strains of T. cruzi. In particular, eight out of 16 hybrids presented an IC50 ≤1 μg/mL against trypomastigotes of the CL Brener strain and/or a selectivity index higher than 10. These promising hybrids yielded similar results when tested on trypomastigotes from the RA strain of T. cruzi (discrete typing unit—DTU—VI). Surprisingly, trypomastigotes of the Y strain (DTU II) were more resistant to benznidazole and to most of the hybrids than those of the CL Brener and RA strains. However, the peracetylated and non-acetylated forms of the cinchonine/chenodeoxycholic bile acid conjugate 4f and 5f were the most trypanocidal hybrids against Y strain trypomastigotes, with IC50 values of 0.5 and 0.65 μg/mL, respectively. More importantly, promising results were observed in invasion assays using the Y strain, where hybrids 5f and 4f induced a significant reduction in intracellular amastigotes and on the release of trypomastigotes from infected cells.
Insight into Improved Thermostability of Cold-Adapted Staphylococcal Lipase by Glycine to Cysteine Mutation
Authors: Veno Jiivittha , Rahman Raja Noor Zaliha Raja Abd , Masomian Malihe , Ali Mohd Shukuri Mohamad , Kamarudin Nor Hafizah Ahmad
Published: September 2019

Thermostability remains one of the most desirable traits in many lipases. Numerous studies have revealed promising strategies to improve thermostability and random mutagenesis often leads to unexpected yet interesting findings in engineering stability. Previously, the thermostability of C-terminal truncated cold-adapted lipase from Staphylococcus epidermidis AT2 (rT-M386) was markedly enhanced by directed evolution. The newly evolved mutant, G210C, demonstrated an optimal temperature shift from 25 to 45 °C and stability up to 50 °C. Interestingly, a cysteine residue was randomly introduced on the loop connecting the two lids and accounted for the only cysteine found in the lipase. We further investigated the structural and mechanistic insights that could possibly cause the significant temperature shift. Both rT-M386 and G210C were modeled and simulated at 25 °C and 50 °C. The results clearly portrayed the effect of cysteine substitution primarily on the lid stability. Comparative molecular dynamics simulation analysis revealed that G210C exhibited greater stability than the wild-type at high temperature simulation. The compactness of the G210C lipase structure increased at 50 °C and resulted in enhanced rigidity hence stability. This observation is supported by the improved and stronger non-covalent interactions formed in the protein structure. Our findings suggest that the introduction of a single cysteine residue at the lid region of cold-adapted lipase may result in unexpected increased in thermostability, thus this approach could serve as one of the thermostabilization strategies in engineering lipase stability.
DMPK is a New Candidate Mediator of Tumor Suppressor p53-Dependent Cell Death
Authors: Itoh Katsuhiko , Ebata Takahiro , Hirata Hiroaki , Torii Takeru , Sugimoto Wataru , Onodera Keigo , Nakajima Wataru , Uehara Ikuno , Okuzaki Daisuke , Yamauchi Shota , Budirahardja Yemima , Nishikata Takahito , Tanaka Nobuyuki , Kawauchi Keiko
Published: September 2019

Tumor suppressor p53 plays an integral role in DNA-damage induced apoptosis, a biological process that protects against tumor progression. Cell shape dramatically changes when cells undergo apoptosis, which is associated with actomyosin contraction; however, it remains entirely elusive how p53 regulates actomyosin contraction in response to DNA-damaging agents. To identify a novel p53 regulating gene encoding the modulator of myosin, we conducted DNA microarray analysis. We found that, in response to DNA-damaging agent doxorubicin, expression of myotonic dystrophy protein kinase (DMPK), which is known to upregulate actomyosin contraction, was increased in a p53-dependent manner. The promoter region of DMPK gene contained potential p53-binding sequences and its promoter activity was increased by overexpression of the p53 family protein p73, but, unexpectedly, not of p53. Furthermore, we found that doxorubicin treatment induced p73 expression, which was significantly attenuated by downregulation of p53. These data suggest that p53 induces expression of DMPK through upregulating p73 expression. Overexpression of DMPK promotes contraction of the actomyosin cortex, which leads to formation of membrane blebs, loss of cell adhesion, and concomitant caspase activation. Taken together, our results suggest the existence of p53-p73-DMPK axis which mediates DNA-damage induced actomyosin contraction at the cortex and concomitant cell death.
Design, Synthesis and Molecular Docking Analysis of Flavonoid Derivatives as Potential Telomerase Inhibitors
Authors: Fan Zhan-Fang , Ho Sai-Tim , Wen Rui , Fu Ya , Zhang Lei , Wang Jian , Hu Chun , Shaw Pang-Chui , Liu Yang , Cheng Mao-Sheng
Published: September 2019

Based on the structural scaffolds of natural products, two series of flavonoid derivatives, for a total of twelve compounds, were designed and synthesized as potential human telomerase inhibitors. Using a modified TRAP-PCR assay, compound 5c exhibited the most potent inhibitory activity against human telomerase with an IC50 value of less than 50 μM. In vitro, the results demonstrated that compound 5c had potent anticancer activity against five classes of tumor cell lines. The molecular docking and molecular dynamics analyses binding to the human telomerase holoenzyme were performed to elucidate the binding mode of active compound 5c. This finding helps the rational design of more potent telomerase inhibitors based on the structural scaffolds of natural products.
Structure-Based Pharmacophore Design and Virtual Screening for Novel Tubulin Inhibitors with Potential Anticancer Activity
Authors: Zhou Yunjiang , Di Bin , Niu Miao-Miao
Published: September 2019

Tubulin inhibitors have been considered as potential drugs for cancer therapy. However, their drug resistance and serious side-effects are the main reasons for clinical treatment failure. Therefore, there is still an urgent need to develop effective therapeutic drugs. Herein, a structure-based pharmacophore model was developed based on the co-crystallized structures of the tubulin with a high resolution. The model including one hydrogen-bond acceptor feature, two aromatic features, and one hydrophobic feature was further validated using the Gunner–Henry score method. Virtual screening was performed by an integrated protocol that combines drug-likeness analysis, pharmacophore mapping, and molecular docking approaches. Finally, five hits were selected for biological evaluation. The results indicated that all these hits at the concentration of 40 μM showed an inhibition of more than 50% against five human tumor cells (MCF-7, U87MG, HCT-116, MDA-MB-231, and HepG2). Particularly, hit 1 effectively inhibited the proliferation of these tumor cells, with inhibition rates of more than 80%. The results of tubulin polymerization and colchicine-site competition assays suggested that hit 1 significantly inhibited tubulin polymerization by binding to the colchicine site. Thus, hit 1 could be used as a potential chemotherapeutic agent for cancer treatment. This work also demonstrated the potential of our screening protocol to identify biologically active compounds.
Probing the Effects of Pyrimidine Functional Group Switches on Acyclic Fleximer Analogues for Antiviral Activity
Authors: Yates Mary K. , Chatterjee Payel , Flint Mike , Arefeayne Yafet , Makuc Damjan , Plavec Janez , Spiropoulou Christina F. , Seley-Radtke Katherine L.
Published: September 2019

Due to their ability to inhibit viral DNA or RNA replication, nucleoside analogues have been used for decades as potent antiviral therapeutics. However, one of the major limitations of nucleoside analogues is the development of antiviral resistance. In that regard, flexible nucleoside analogues known as “fleximers” have garnered attention over the years due to their ability to survey different amino acids in enzyme binding sites, thus overcoming the potential development of antiviral resistance. Acyclic fleximers have previously demonstrated antiviral activity against numerous viruses including Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), Ebola virus (EBOV), and, most recently, flaviviruses such as Dengue (DENV) and Yellow Fever Virus (YFV). Due to these interesting results, a Structure Activity Relationship (SAR) study was pursued in order to analyze the effect of the pyrimidine functional group and acyl protecting group on antiviral activity, cytotoxicity, and conformation. The results of those studies are presented herein.