bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Vision-Based Approach for Sidewalk and Walkway Trip Hazards Assessment
Authors: Cohen Rachel , Fernie Geoff , Roshan Fekr Atena
Published: November 2020

Tripping hazards on the sidewalk cause many falls annually, and the inspection and repair of these hazards cost cities millions of dollars. Currently, there is not an efficient and cost-effective method to monitor the sidewalk to identify any possible tripping hazards. In this paper, a new portable device is proposed using an Intel RealSense D415 RGB-D camera to monitor the sidewalks, detect the hazards, and extract relevant features of the hazards. This paper first analyzes the effects of environmental factors contributing to the device’s error and compares different regression techniques to calibrate the camera. The Gaussian Process Regression models yielded the most accurate predictions with less than 0.09 mm Mean Absolute Errors (MAEs). In the second phase, a novel segmentation algorithm is proposed that combines the edge detection and region-growing techniques to detect the true tripping hazards. Different examples are provided to visualize the output results of the proposed method.
Trends in Incidence and Case Fatality Rates of Heart Disease and Its Subtypes in Korea, 2006–2015
Authors: Seo Su Ra , Jang Shin Yi , Cho Sung-il
Published: November 2020

Heart disease (HD) is the second leading cause of death in Korea. Several studies in Korea have analyzed the trends of incidence and mortality of myocardial infarction (MI) and ischemic heart disease (IHD), but few have investigated incidence and mortality trends of HD and its subtypes. The aim of this study was to assess the national trends in incidence and case fatality rates of overall HD and its subtypes (including IHD, heart failure (HF), arrhythmia, hypertensive HD (HHD), valvular HD, pulmonary HD, and others) in Korea between 2006 and 2015. Using records from the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) claims database (2003–2015) and by obtaining the causes of death (Korean Statistical Information Service, 2006–2017), we analyzed the crude and age-standardized incidence rates from 2006 to 2015 and the case fatality rates from 2006 to 2017 of HD and its subtypes. Between 2006 and 2015, the incidence of overall HD changed minimally, but the age-standardized incidence of HD decreased from 210.0 persons per 100,000 populations in 2006 to 161.3 persons in 2015. However, incidence rates have increased in arrhythmia, HD other, pulmonary HD, and the case fatality rates have increased in HF, valvular HD, and HD other. Therefore, it is essential to continuously monitor the incidence and case fatality rates of HD and its subtypes and expand the focus onto prevention and treatment strategies from MI or IHD to various HD subtypes. Active prevention and management are needed to alleviate the burden of HD due to an aging population in Korea.
Combining Cluster Analysis of Air Pollution and Meteorological Data with Receptor Model Results for Ambient PM2.5 and PM10
Authors: Jorquera Héctor , Villalobos Ana María
Published: November 2020

Air pollution regulation requires knowing major sources on any given zone, setting specific controls, and assessing how health risks evolve in response to those controls. Receptor models (RM) can identify major sources: transport, industry, residential, etc. However, RM results are typically available for short term periods, and there is a paucity of RM results for developing countries. We propose to combine a cluster analysis (CA) of air pollution and meteorological measurements with a short-term RM analysis to estimate a long-term, hourly source apportionment of ambient PM2.5 and PM10. We have developed a proof of the concept for this proposed methodology in three case studies: a large metropolitan zone, a city with dominant residential wood burning (RWB) emissions, and a city in the middle of a desert region. We have found it feasible to identify the major sources in the CA results and obtain hourly time series of their contributions, effectively extending short-term RM results to the whole ambient monitoring period. This methodology adds value to existing ambient data. The hourly time series results would allow researchers to apportion health benefits associated with specific air pollution regulations, estimate source-specific trends, improve emission inventories, and conduct environmental justice studies, among several potential applications.
Stratified Data Reconstruction and Spatial Pattern Analyses of Soil Bulk Density in the Northern Grasslands of China
Authors: Qiao Yuxin , Zhu Huazhong , Zhong Huaping , Li Yuzhe
Published: November 2020

The spatial pattern of soil bulk density in the grasslands of northern China largely remains undefined, which raised uncertainty in understanding and modeling various soil processes in large spatial scale. Based on the measured data of soil bulk density available from soil survey reports from the grasslands of northern China, we constructed a soil Stratified Pedotransfer function (SPTF) from the surface soil bulk density. Accordingly, the stratified bulk density data of soil vertical profile was reconstructed, and the estimation of soil bulk density data in horizontal space was performed. The results demonstrated that the soil bulk density of the grasslands of northern China was typically high in the central and northwestern regions and low in the eastern and mountainous regions. Mean soil bulk density of the grasslands was 1.52 g·cm−3. According to geographical divisions, the highest soil bulk density was observed in the Tarim basin, with mean soil bulk density of 1.91 g·cm−3. Conversely, the lowest soil bulk density was observed in the Tianshan Mountain area, with mean soil bulk density of 1.01 g·cm−3. Based on data obtained on various types of grasslands, the soil bulk density of alpine meadow was the lowest, with a mean soil bulk density of 0.75 g·cm−3, whereas that of temperate desert was the highest, with mean soil bulk density of 1.80 g·cm−3. Mean prediction error, root mean square deviation, relative error, and multiple correlation coefficient of soil bulk density data pertaining to surface layer (0–10 cm) in the grasslands of northern China were 0.018, 0.223, 16.2%, and 0.5386, respectively. The approach of employing multiple data sources via soil transfer function improved the estimation accuracy of soil bulk density from stratified soils data at the large scale. Our study would promote the accurate assessment of grassland carbon storage and fine land characteristics mapping.
Optimized Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm for the Realization of an Enhanced Energy-Aware Location-Aided Routing Protocol in MANET
Authors: Abdali Taj-Aldeen Naser , Hassan Rosilah , Muniyandi Ravie Chandren , Mohd Aman Azana Hafizah , Nguyen Quang Ngoc , Al-Khaleefa Ahmed Salih
Published: November 2020

Mobile Ad-hoc Network (MANETs) is a wireless network topology with mobile network nodes and movable communication routes. In addition, the network nodes in MANETs are free to either join or leave the network. Typically, routing in MANETs is multi-hop because of the limited communication range of nodes. Then, routing protocols have been developed for MANETs. Among them, energy-aware location-aided routing (EALAR) is an efficient reactive MANET routing protocol that has been recently obtained by integrating particle swarm optimization (PSO) with mutation operation into the conventional LAR protocol. However, the mutation operation (nonuniform) used in EALAR has some drawbacks, which make EALAR provide insufficient exploration, exploitation, and diversity of solutions. Therefore, this study aims to propose to apply the Optimized PSO (OPSO) via adopting a mutation operation (uniform) instead of nonuniform. The OPSO is integrated into the LAR protocol to enhance all critical performance metrics, including packet delivery ratio, energy consumption, overhead, and end-to-end delay.
An Accurate GNSS-Based Redundant Safe Braking System for Urban Elevated Rail Maglev Trains
Authors: Neto João Batista Pinto , Gomes Lucas de Carvalho , Campista Miguel Elias Mitre , Costa Luís Henrique Maciel Kosmalski
Published: November 2020

The association of elevated rail structures and Maglev (magnetic levitation) trains is a promising alternative for urban transportation. Besides being cost-effective in comparison with underground solutions, the Maglev technology is a clean and low-noise mass transportation. In this paper, we propose a low-cost automatic braking system for Maglev trains. There is a myriad of sensors and positioning techniques used to improve the accuracy, precision and stability of train navigation systems, but most of them result in high implementation costs. In this paper, we develop an affordable solution, called Redundant Autonomous Safe Braking System (RASBS), for the MagLev-Cobra train, a magnetic levitation vehicle developed at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Brazil. The proposed braking system employs GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) receivers at the stations and trains, which are connected via an ad-hoc wireless network. The proposed system uses a cooperative error correction algorithm to achieve sub-meter distance precision. We experimentally evaluate the performance of RASBS in the MagLev prototype located at the campus of UFRJ, Brazil. Results show that, using RASBS, the train is able to dynamically set the precise location to start the braking procedure.
Functional Response and Intraspecific Competition in the Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Ren Qilin , Haseeb Muhammad , Fan Jingyu , Wu Pengxiang , Tian Tianqi , Zhang Runzhi
Published: November 2020

Functional responses of the fall armyworm (FAW) larvae at each stage, and their intraspecific competition associated with cannibalism, provide insights into developing pest management strategies for the FAW. To help use insecticides more sparingly, the functional response and intraspecific competition of the FAW larvae were evaluated under the laboratory conditions. The results showed that all stages of the FAW larvae displayed a type II functional response to diet. Based on Holling’s disc equation, the search rate (a) and handling time (Th) of sixth instar larvae (a = 0.493; Th = 0.37 min) were the highest, and the shortest of all larval stages, respectively. Intraspecific competition curves fitted the data for fourth to sixth larval stages of the FAW, and the coefficient of intraspecific competition (m) assessed by the intraspecific competition equation were highest for fifth instar larvae (m = 0.48). The present study indicates that 5th and 6th instar larvae can cause the most plant damage (accounted for 88.9% of larval consumption), and these stages should be the focus of any pest management strategy. Intraspecific competition, especially cannibalism, impacts the feeding patterns of the FAW larvae and needs close attention. Understanding the functional response and intraspecific competition of the FAW larvae contributes greatly to practical applications of insecticides, increasing the effectiveness of chemical sprays and decreasing ecological damage.
Divergence of Beauvericin Synthase Gene among Fusarium and Trichoderma Species
Authors: Urbaniak Monika , Waśkiewicz Agnieszka , Koczyk Grzegorz , Błaszczyk Lidia , Stępień Łukasz
Published: November 2020

Beauvericin (BEA) is a cyclodepsipeptide mycotoxin, showing insecticidal, antibiotic and antimicrobial activities, as well as inducing apoptosis of cancer cell lines. BEA can be produced by multiple fungal species, including saprotrophs, plant, insect and human pathogens, particularly belonging to Fusarium, Beauveria and Isaria genera. The ability of Trichoderma species to produce BEA was until now uncertain. Biosynthesis of BEA is governed by a non-ribosomal peptide synthase (NRPS), known as beauvericin synthase (BEAS), which appears to present considerable divergence among different fungal species. In the present study we compared the production of beauvericin among Fusarium and Trichoderma strains using UPLC methods. BEAS fragments were sequenced and analyzed to examine the level of the gene’s divergence between these two genera and confirm the presence of active BEAS copy in Trichoderma. Seventeen strains of twelve species were studied and phylogenetic analysis showed distinctive grouping of Fusarium and Trichoderma strains. The highest producers of beauvericin were F. proliferatum and F. nygamai. Trichoderma strains of three species (T. atroviride, T. viride, T. koningiopsis) were minor BEA producers. The study showed beauvericin production by Fusarium and Trichoderma species and high variance of the non-ribosomal peptide synthase gene among fungal species from the Hypocreales order.
Microwave-Assisted Extraction of Phlorotannins from Fucus vesiculosus
Authors: Amarante Sónia J. , Catarino Marcelo D. , Marçal Catarina , Silva Artur M. S. , Ferreira Rita , Cardoso Susana M.
Published: November 2020

Microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) was carried out to maximize the extraction of phlorotannins from Fucus vesiculosus using a hydroethanolic mixture as a solvent, as an alternative to the conventional method with a hydroacetonic mixture. Optimal MAE conditions were set as ethanol concentration of 57% (v/v), temperature of 75 °C, and time of 5 min, which allowed a similar recovery of phlorotannins from the macroalgae compared to the conventional extraction. While the phlorotannins richness of the conventional extract was slightly superior to that of MAE (11.1 ± 1.3 vs. 9.8 ± 1.8 mg PGE/g DWextract), both extracts presented identical phlorotannins constituents, which included, among others, tetrafucol, pentafucol, hexafucol, and heptafucol structures. In addition, MAE showed a moderate capacity to scavenge ABTS•+ (IC50 of 96.0 ± 3.4 µg/mL) and to inhibit the activity of xanthine oxidase (IC50 of 23.1 ± 3.4 µg/mL) and a superior ability to control the activity of the key metabolic enzyme α-glucosidase compared to the pharmaceutical drug acarbose.
Successful Embolization of Posterior Inferior Pancreaticoduodenal Artery Pseudoaneurysm on the Grounds of Chronic Pancreatitis—Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Mitrovic Milica , Dugalic Vladimir , Kovac Jelena , Tadic Boris , Milosevic Stefan , Lukic Borivoje , Lekic Nebojsa , Cvetic Vladimir
Published: November 2020

Pancreatic pseudoaneurysm is a rare but life-threatening clinical entity. In this paper, we present a case of a 74-year-old man, who was admitted to our clinic with a diagnosis of an acute on chronic pancreatitis complicated by walled-off-pancreatic-necrosis, with subsequent development of peripancreatic pseudoaneurysm. After initial conservative management, the patient recovered and was discharged from the hospital. However, he soon returned feeling anxious due to a pulsatile abdominal mass. Abdominal Color–Doppler examination, CT scan, and angiography revealed large pancreatic necrotic collection in the total size of 9 cm, with centrally enhancing area of 3.5 cm that corresponded to pseudoaneurysm originating from the posterior pancreaticoduodenal vascular arcade. Considering the size, location of the pseudoaneurysm, feeding vessel, and poor general patients condition, we opted for minimally invasive treatment. Pseudoaneurysm was successfully managed by endovascular coil embolization, i.e., “sandwich technique”.
Editorial for the Special Issue on Micro/Nanofabrication for Retinal Implants
Authors: Im Maesoon
Published: November 2020

The retinal prosthetic community has witnessed tremendous technological advances during the last two decades since the emergence of pioneering work [...]
DoE Analysis of Approaches for Hydrogel Microbeads’ Preparation by Millifluidic Methods
Authors: Nastruzzi Anna , Pitingolo Gabriele , Luca Giovanni , Nastruzzi Claudio
Published: November 2020

Hydrogel microbeads hold great promise for immune-protective cell transplants and in vitro studies. Millifluidic generation of hydrogel microbeads is a highly efficient and reproducible approach enabling a mass production. This paper illustrates the preparation and characterization of highly controlled and reproducible microbeads made by different types of hydrogel using millifluidic approaches. The optimization of the process was made by a design of experiments (DoE) approach. The microbeads’ large-scale production can be potentially used for single cells or clusters encapsulation.
Fundamental Study of Decellularization Method Using Cyclic Application of High Hydrostatic Pressure
Authors: Zemmyo Daiki , Yamamoto Masashi , Miyata Shogo
Published: November 2020

Decellularized tissues are promising materials that mainly consist of extracellular matrices (ECMs) obtained by removing all cells from organs and tissues. High hydrostatic pressure (HHP) has been used for decellularization to remove cells physically from organs or tissues rather than by chemical methods. However, ultrahigh pressure induces denaturation of the ECM structure. In this study, we examined the effects of cyclic HHP at low and high pressures on the cell membrane structure to establish a novel decellularization method that enables decellularization without the denaturation of the ECM. A decellularization device using cyclic HHP (maximum pressure: 250 MPa, cycle number: 5) was developed. NB1RGB cell suspension was injected into a plastic bag to be subjected to cyclic HHP. After applying cyclic HHP, the amount of DNA inside the cells and the morphological changes of the cells were evaluated. As a result, the amount of DNA inside the cells decreased after the cyclic HHP compared to the static HHP. In addition, cyclic HHP was suggested to promote the destruction of the cell and nuclear membrane. In conclusion, it was revealed that the cell structure could be denatured and destroyed by cyclic HHP at a lower level than that of previous approaches.
Structure and Composition of Micro-Manganese Nodules in Deep-Sea Carbonate from the Zhaoshu Plateau, North of the South China Sea
Authors: Xu Hengchao , Peng Xiaotong , Ta Kaiwen , Song Taoran , Du Mengran , Li Jiwei , Chen Shun , Qu Zhiguo
Published: November 2020

The occurrence of deep-sea ferromanganese nodules and crusts on the seafloor is widespread, providing an important resource for numerous metals such as Ni, Co, and Cu. Although they have been intensively studied in the past, the formation of micro-manganese nodules within carbonate rocks has received less attention, despite the considerable amounts of manganese released from the dissolution of the calcareous framework. The micro-petrographic and geochemical characteristics of reef carbonate rocks recovered from the Zhaoshu plateau in the Xisha uplift, north of the South China Sea, were studied using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, confocal Raman spectrometry, and an electron probe micro-analyzer. The carbonate rocks are composed of biogenic debris, including frameworks of coralline algae and chambers of foraminifer, both of which are suffering strong micritization. Within the calcite micrite, numerous micro-manganese nodules were identified with laminated patterns. Mineral and elemental evidence showed that the Mn oxides in the carbonates are mixed with 10 Å vernadite, 7 Å vernadite and todorokite, both of which are closely associated with the carbonate matrix. The micro-nodules were found to have high Mn/Fe ratios, enriched in Ni and Cu and depleted in Co. We infer that theses nodules are mixed type with early diagenetic growth under oxic–suboxic conditions. The re-distribution of manganite within the rocks is likely influenced by micritization of the calcareous framework. We deduce that microbial-associated reduction of manganite induces the formation of diagenetic todorokite similar to nodules buried in marine sediments.
Sensing Performance and Mechanical Properties of Buckypaper Impregnated with Epoxy Resin
Authors: Her Shiuh-Chuan , Hsu Wei-Chun
Published: November 2020

Buckypaper consisting of a carbon nanotube (CNT) sheet has a great potential for sensing and structural applications due to the exceptional piezoresistive and mechanical properties of CNTs. In this work, buckypaper was impregnated with the epoxy resin to improve the fragility and handling capability. The mechanical properties of the buckypaper/epoxy composite were determined by the tensile and nanoindentation tests. A thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA) was used to evaluate the thermal stability. Strain and temperature sensing performances of the buckypaper/epoxy composite based on the piezoresistive effect were investigated using a meter source. Experimental results indicated that the elastic modulus and ultimate strength of the buckypaper/epoxy composite were increased by 82% and 194%, respectively, in comparison with the pristine buckypaper, while the strain and temperature sensitivities were decreased by 33% and 0.2%, respectively. A significant increase of the tensile strength accompanied with a moderate decrease of the strain sensitivity demonstrates that the overall performance of buckypaper/epoxy composite is better than that of pristine buckypaper.
Nonlinear Optical Characterization of 2D Materials
Authors: Zhou Linlin , Fu Huange , Lv Ting , Wang Chengbo , Gao Hui , Li Daqian , Deng Leimin , Xiong Wei
Published: November 2020

Characterizing the physical and chemical properties of two-dimensional (2D) materials is of great significance for performance analysis and functional device applications. As a powerful characterization method, nonlinear optics (NLO) spectroscopy has been widely used in the characterization of 2D materials. Here, we summarize the research progress of NLO in 2D materials characterization. First, we introduce the principles of NLO and common detection methods. Second, we introduce the recent research progress on the NLO characterization of several important properties of 2D materials, including the number of layers, crystal orientation, crystal phase, defects, chemical specificity, strain, chemical dynamics, and ultrafast dynamics of excitons and phonons, aiming to provide a comprehensive review on laser-based characterization for exploring 2D material properties. Finally, the future development trends, challenges of advanced equipment construction, and issues of signal modulation are discussed. In particular, we also discuss the machine learning and stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) technologies which are expected to provide promising opportunities for 2D material characterization.
Optimizing Gold Nanoparticle Size and Shape for the Fabrication of SERS Substrates by Means of the Langmuir–Blodgett Technique
Authors: Tahghighi Mohammad , Janner Davide , Ignés-Mullol Jordi
Published: November 2020

The Langmuir–Blodgett technique, in which a layer of nanoparticles is spread at the water/air interface and further transferred onto a solid support, is a versatile approach for the preparation of SERS substrates with a controllable arrangement of hotspots. In a previous work, we demonstrated that fine-tuning the lateral packing and subsequent seed growth of 10 nm gold nanoparticles led to a quasi-resonant enhanced in the SERS signal of a test analyte. Here, we explore further enhancements by modifying the size and shape of the spread gold nanoparticles in order to take advantage of the inherent interparticle repulsion mechanisms present at the interface. We show that the size of the used nanoparticles is also a determinant factor, which cannot be compensated by the subsequent electroless growth. We also show that, although the seeded growth leads to rough hotspots, the sensitivity can be optimized by self-assembling urchin-shaped nanoparticles, with a roughness that is fine-tuned a priori. Our results suggest an intriguing correlation between surface homogeneity and SERS signal enhancement, indicating that regular substrates will have the optimal performance.
Effect of ZnO and SnO2 Nanolayers at Grain Boundaries on Thermoelectric Properties of Polycrystalline Skutterudites
Authors: Kim Sang-il , An Jiwoo , Lee Woo-Jae , Kwon Se , Nam Woo , Du Nguyen , Oh Jong-Min , Koo Sang-Mo , Cho Jung , Shin Weon
Published: November 2020

Nanostructuring is considered one of the key approaches to achieve highly efficient thermoelectric alloys by reducing thermal conductivity. In this study, we investigated the effect of oxide (ZnO and SnO2) nanolayers at the grain boundaries of polycrystalline In0.2Yb0.1Co4Sb12 skutterudites on their electrical and thermal transport properties. Skutterudite powders with oxide nanolayers were prepared by atomic layer deposition method, and the number of deposition cycles was varied to control the coating thickness. The coated powders were consolidated by spark plasma sintering. With increasing number of deposition cycle, the electrical conductivity gradually decreased, while the Seebeck coefficient changed insignificantly; this indicates that the carrier mobility decreased due to the oxide nanolayers. In contrast, the lattice thermal conductivity increased with an increase in the number of deposition cycles, demonstrating the reduction in phonon scattering by grain boundaries owing to the oxide nanolayers. Thus, we could easily control the thermoelectric properties of skutterudite materials through adjusting the oxide nanolayer by atomic layer deposition method.
Lipidic Cubic-Phase Nanoparticles (Cubosomes) Loaded with Doxorubicin and Labeled with 177Lu as a Potential Tool for Combined Chemo and Internal Radiotherapy for Cancers
Authors: Cytryniak Adrianna , Nazaruk Ewa , Bilewicz Renata , Górzyńska Emilia , Żelechowska-Matysiak Kinga , Walczak Rafał , Mames Adam , Bilewicz Aleksander , Majkowska-Pilip Agnieszka
Published: November 2020

Lipid liquid-crystalline nanoparticles (cubosomes) were used for the first time as a dual-modality drug delivery system for internal radiotherapy combined with chemotherapy. Monoolein (GMO)-based cubosomes were prepared by loading the anticancer drug, doxorubicin and a commonly used radionuclide, low-energy beta (β−)-emitter, 177Lu. The radionuclide was complexed with a long chain derivative of DOTAGA (DOTAGA-OA). The DOTAGA headgroup of the chelator was exposed to the aqueous channels of the cubosomes, while, concerning OA, the hydrophobic tail was embedded in the nonpolar region of the lipid bilayer matrix, placing the radioactive dopant in a stable manner inside the cubosome. The cubosomes containing doxorubicin and the radionuclide complex increased the cytotoxicity measured by the viability of the treated HeLa cells compared with the effect of single-drug cubosomes containing either the DOX DOTAGA-OA or DOTAGA-OA-177Lu complex. Multifunctional lipidic nanoparticles encapsulating the chemotherapeutic agent together with appropriately complexed (β−) radionuclide are proposed as a potential strategy for effective local therapy of various cancers.
Effect of Defatted Dabai Pulp Extract in Urine Metabolomics of Hypercholesterolemic Rats
Authors: Kadir Noor Atiqah Aizan Abdul , Azlan Azrina , Abas Faridah , Ismail Intan Safinar
Published: November 2020

A source of functional food can be utilized from a source that might otherwise be considered waste. This study investigates the hypocholesterolemic effect of defatted dabai pulp (DDP) from supercritical carbon dioxide extraction and the metabolic alterations associated with the therapeutic effects of DDP using 1H NMR urinary metabolomic analysis. Male-specific pathogen-free Sprague–Dawley rats were fed with a high cholesterol diet for 30 days to induce hypercholesterolemia. Later, the rats were administered with a 2% DDP treatment diet for another 30 days. Supplementation with the 2% DDP treatment diet significantly reduced the level of total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin 6 (IL6) and tumour necrosis factor-α (α-TNF)) and significantly increased the level of antioxidant profile (total antioxidant status (TAS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxide (GPX), and catalase (CAT)) compared with the positive control group (PG) group (p < 0.05). The presence of high dietary fibre (28.73 ± 1.82 g/100 g) and phenolic compounds (syringic acid, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid and gallic acid) are potential factors contributing to the beneficial effect. Assessment of 1H NMR urinary metabolomics revealed that supplementation of 2% of DDP can partially recover the dysfunction in the metabolism induced by hypercholesterolemia via choline metabolism. 1H-NMR-based metabolomic analysis of urine from hypercholesterolemic rats in this study uncovered the therapeutic effect of DDP to combat hypercholesterolemia.
Cytochrome P450 Metabolism of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Neurodegeneration
Authors: Sarparast Morteza , Dattmore Devon , Alan Jamie , Lee Kin Sing Stephen
Published: November 2020

Due to the aging population in the world, neurodegenerative diseases have become a serious public health issue that greatly impacts patients’ quality of life and adds a huge economic burden. Even after decades of research, there is no effective curative treatment for neurodegenerative diseases. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have become an emerging dietary medical intervention for health maintenance and treatment of diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases. Recent research demonstrated that the oxidized metabolites, particularly the cytochrome P450 (CYP) metabolites, of PUFAs are beneficial to several neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease; however, their mechanism(s) remains unclear. The endogenous levels of CYP metabolites are greatly affected by our diet, endogenous synthesis, and the downstream metabolism. While the activity of omega-3 (ω-3) CYP PUFA metabolites and omega-6 (ω-6) CYP PUFA metabolites largely overlap, the ω-3 CYP PUFA metabolites are more active in general. In this review, we will briefly summarize recent findings regarding the biosynthesis and metabolism of CYP PUFA metabolites. We will also discuss the potential mechanism(s) of CYP PUFA metabolites in neurodegeneration, which will ultimately improve our understanding of how PUFAs affect neurodegeneration and may identify potential drug targets for neurodegenerative diseases.
Development of a Reverse Genetic System to Generate Recombinant Chimeric Tacaribe Virus that Expresses Junín Virus Glycoproteins
Authors: Foscaldi Sabrina , Loureiro María Eugenia , Sepúlveda Claudia , Palacios Carlos , Forlenza María Belén , López Nora
Published: November 2020

Mammarenaviruses are enveloped and segmented negative-stranded RNA viruses that comprise several pathogenic members associated with severe human hemorrhagic fevers. Tacaribe virus (TCRV) is the prototype for the New World group of mammarenaviruses and is not only naturally attenuated but also phylogenetically and antigenically related to all South American pathogenic mammarenaviruses, particularly the Junín virus (JUNV), which is the etiological agent of Argentinian hemorrhagic fever (AHF). Moreover, since TCRV protects guinea pigs and non-human primates from lethal challenges with pathogenic strains of JUNV, it has already been considered as a potential live-attenuated virus vaccine candidate against AHF. Here, we report the development of a reverse genetic system that relies on T7 polymerase-driven intracellular expression of the complementary copy (antigenome) of both viral S and L RNA segments. Using this approach, we successfully recovered recombinant TCRV (rTCRV) that displayed growth properties resembling those of authentic TCRV. We also generated a chimeric recombinant TCRV expressing the JUNV glycoproteins, which propagated similarly to wild-type rTCRV. Moreover, a controlled modification within the S RNA 5′ non-coding terminal sequence diminished rTCRV propagation in a cell-type dependent manner, giving rise to new perspectives where the incorporation of additional attenuation markers could contribute to develop safe rTCRV-based vaccines against pathogenic mammarenaviruses.
Profiles of Extrapulmonary Nontuberculous Mycobacteria Infections and Predictors for Species: A Multicenter Retrospective Study
Authors: Kim Jung Ho , Jung In Young , Song Je Eun , Kim Eun Jin , Kim Jun Hyoung , Lee Woon Ji , Seong Hye , Ahn Jin Young , Jeong Su Jin , Ku Nam Su , Choi Jun Yong , Yeom Joon-Sup , Song Young Goo
Published: November 2020

Extrapulmonary nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infections contribute to morbidity and mortality worldwide. However, studies about extrapulmonary NTM infections have been limited. Therefore, we aim to describe the diversity of extrapulmonary NTM infections and identify predictors for species. Information regarding diversity of NTM isolates, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, treatment regimens, and outcomes were collected from four tertiary care centers in South Korea. Comparisons were made between patients with rapidly growing mycobacteria (RGM) and slowly growing mycobacteria (SGM) infections. A total of 117 patients (46 males vs. 71 females) were included. Skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) predominated (34.2%), followed by bone and joint infections (28.2%). In SSTIs, RGM species were predominantly identified (26/28, 92.9%), whereas SGM species were mainly identified in bone and joint infections (18/26, 69.2%), and the difference of isolated sites was verified by a post hoc test (p < 0.001). Multivariable regression analysis revealed that male sex (vs. female sex; OR 5.30, CI 1.35–24.26, p = 0.020) and bone and joint infections (vs. SSTIs; OR 18.10, CI 3.28–157.07, p = 0.002) were predictors of SGM infections, whereas the opposite was observed for RGM infections. Bone and joint infections and male sex were predictors for SGM infections, whereas SSTIs and female sex were predictors for RGM infections.
Prevalence and Distribution of Avian Influenza Viruses in Domestic Ducks at the Waterfowl-Chicken Interface in Wetlands
Authors: Hassan Mohammad M. , Islam Ariful , Hasan Rubyath B. , Rahman Md. K. , Webby Richard J. , Hoque Md. A. , El Zowalaty Mohamed E.
Published: November 2020

Ducks are a natural reservoir of influenza A viruses (IAVs) and can act as a reassortment vessel. Wetlands, such as Hakaluki and Tanguar haor in Bangladesh, have unique ecosystems including domestic duck (Anas platyrhynchos domesticus) rearing, especially household and free-range ducks. A cross-sectional study was, therefore, conducted to explore avian influenza status and its distribution and risk factors in the wetland areas. During the three consecutive winters of 2015–2017, specifically in December of these years, we collected a total of 947 samples including blood, oropharyngeal and cloacal swabs from domestic ducks (such as free-range ducks (n = 312 samples) and household ducks (n = 635 samples) in wetlands. We screened serum samples using a nucleoprotein competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (c-ELISA) to estimate seroprevalence of IAV antibodies and swab samples by real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) to detect IA viral M gene. Eleven M gene positive samples were subjected to sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. Serological and viral prevalence rates of IAVs were 63.8% (95% CI: 60.6–66.8) and 10.7% (8.8–12.8), respectively. Serological and viral RNA prevalence rates were 51.8% (95% CI: 47.2–56.4) and 10.2% (7.6–13.3) in Hakaluki haor, 75.6% (71.5–79.4) and 11.1% (8.5–14.3) in Tanguar haor, 66.3% (62.5–69.9) and 11.2% (8.8–13.9) in household ducks and 58.7% (52.9–64.2) and 9.6% (6.5–13.4) in free-range ducks, respectively. The risk factors identified for higher odds of AI seropositive ducks were location (OR = 2.9, 95% CI: 2.2–3.8, p < 0.001; Tanguar haor vs. Hakaluki haor), duck-rearing system (OR = 1.4, 1.1–1.8, household vs. free-range), farmer’s education status (OR = 1.5, 1.2–2.0, p < 0.05 illiterate vs. literate) and contact type (OR = 3.0, 2.1–4.3, p < 0.001; contact with chicken vs. no contact with chicken). The risk factors identified for higher odds of AI viral RNA positive ducks were farmer’s education status (OR = 1.5, 1.0–2.3, p < 0.05 for illiterate vs literate), contact type (OR = 2.7, 1.7–4.2, p < 0.001; ducks having contact with chicken vs. ducks having contact with waterfowl). The phylogenetic analysis of 11 partial M gene sequences suggested that the M gene sequences detected in free-range duck were very similar to each other and were closely related to the M gene sequences of previously reported highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) and low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) subtypes in waterfowl in Bangladesh and Southeast Asian countries. Results of the current study will help provide significant information for future surveillance programs and model IAV infection to predict the spread of the viruses among migratory waterfowl, free-range ducks and domestic poultry in Bangladesh.
Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease and Blood–Brain Barrier Drug Delivery
Authors: Pardridge William M.
Published: November 2020

Despite the enormity of the societal and health burdens caused by Alzheimer’s disease (AD), there have been no FDA approvals for new therapeutics for AD since 2003. This profound lack of progress in treatment of AD is due to dual problems, both related to the blood–brain barrier (BBB). First, 98% of small molecule drugs do not cross the BBB, and ~100% of biologic drugs do not cross the BBB, so BBB drug delivery technology is needed in AD drug development. Second, the pharmaceutical industry has not developed BBB drug delivery technology, which would enable industry to invent new therapeutics for AD that actually penetrate into brain parenchyma from blood. In 2020, less than 1% of all AD drug development projects use a BBB drug delivery technology. The pathogenesis of AD involves chronic neuro-inflammation, the progressive deposition of insoluble amyloid-beta or tau aggregates, and neural degeneration. New drugs that both attack these multiple sites in AD, and that have been coupled with BBB drug delivery technology, can lead to new and effective treatments of this serious disorder.
Solubility, Solution Thermodynamics, and Preferential Solvation of Amygdalin in Ethanol + Water Solvent Mixtures
Authors: Aydi Abdelkarim , Ayadi Cherifa , Ghachem Kaouther , Al-Khazaal Abdulaal , Delgado Daniel , Alnaief Mohammad , Kolsi Lioua
Published: November 2020

The equilibrium solubility of amygdalin in [ethanol (1) + water (2)] mixtures at 293.15 K to 328.15 K was reported. The thermodynamic properties (standard enthalpy ΔsolnH°, standard entropy ΔsolnS°, and standard Gibbs energy of solution ΔsolnG°) were computed using the generated solubility data via van’t Hoff and Gibbs equations. The dissolution process of amygdalin is endothermic and the driving mechanism in all mixtures is entropy. Maximal solubility was achieved in 0.4 mole fraction of ethanol at 328.15 K and the minimal one in neat ethanol at 293.15 K. Van’t Hoff, Jouyban–Acree–van’t Hoff, and Buchowski–Ksiazczak models were used to simulate the obtained solubility data. The calculated solubilities deviate reasonably from experimental data. Preferential solvation parameters of amygdalin in mixture solvents were analyzed using the inverse Kirkwood–Buff integrals (IKBI) method. Amygdalin is preferentially solvated by water in ethanol-rich mixtures, whereas in water-rich mixtures, there is no clear evidence that determines which of water or ethanol solvents would be most likely to solvate the molecule.
Plasma Activation as a Powerful Tool for Selective Modification of Cellulose Fibers towards Biomedical Applications
Authors: Mauger Olivia , Westphal Sophia , Klöpzig Stefanie , Krüger-Genge Anne , Müller Werner , Storsberg Joachim , Bohrisch Jörg
Published: November 2020

Cellulosic substrates are known for their biocompatibility, non-cytotoxicity, hypoallergenicity and sterilizability. It is therefore desirable to have a bundle of methods to equip them with tailored properties such as affinity profiles for various applications. In the case of highly swelling materials such as cellulose sponges, “dry” functionalization using plasma activation is the method of choice. The purpose of the study was to adapt low-pressure plasma technology for targeted cellulose modification. Using plasma (pre-) treatment combined with gaseous reactants like O2, ethylene oxide or silane, three different cellulose modifications were obtained and characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Swelling measurements and bacterial adhesion tests revealed distinctive material properties compared to educt. The development of these non-aqueous methods demonstrated an effective procedural route towards modified cellulosic materials for usage in wound dressing, micro patterned assays or bacterial filtration.
Development of an UPLC-MS/MS Method for Quantitative Analysis of Clotrimazole in Human Plasma Samples
Authors: Lisi Lucia , Ciotti Gabriella Maria Pia , Navarra Pierluigi
Published: November 2020

An ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method was developed for the quantification of clotrimazole (CTZ) plasma levels after intravaginal administration of the drug given at approved dosages. Plasma samples were extracted by liquid–liquid extraction and a single chromatographic run could be completed within about 2 min. The method was linear over the investigated range (0.488–250 ng/mL) with all the correlation coefficients, R2, greater than 0.9903. All data were in the range of ±15.0% with respect to the nominal concentration for high QC and medium QC, and in the range ±20% with respect to the nominal concentration for low QC. This rapid and sensitive method was validated and could be applied to human plasma samples from a healthy volunteer, showing that the assay is able to detect plasma concentrations of CTZ in the range of those found after the administration of the drug at approved dosages in the clinical setting.
Erratum: Ramirez-Medina, E.; et al. Evaluation in Swine of a Recombinant African Swine Fever Virus Lacking the MGF-360-1L Gene. Viruses 2020, 12, 1193
Authors: Editorial Office Viruses
Published: November 2020

The Viruses Editorial Office wishes to notify its readers of corrections in [...]
Pseudotyping Lentiviral Vectors: When the Clothes Make the Virus
Authors: Duvergé Alexis , Negroni Matteo
Published: November 2020

Delivering transgenes to human cells through transduction with viral vectors constitutes one of the most encouraging approaches in gene therapy. Lentivirus-derived vectors are among the most promising vectors for these approaches. When the genetic modification of the cell must be performed in vivo, efficient specific transduction of the cell targets of the therapy in the absence of off-targeting constitutes the Holy Grail of gene therapy. For viral therapy, this is largely determined by the characteristics of the surface proteins carried by the vector. In this regard, an important property of lentiviral vectors is the possibility of being pseudotyped by envelopes of other viruses, widening the panel of proteins with which they can be armed. Here, we discuss how this is achieved at the molecular level and what the properties and the potentialities of the different envelope proteins that can be used for pseudotyping these vectors are.
ANALISIS KOMPETENSI DAN MOTIVASI KERJA PENGARUHNYA TERHADAP KINERJA PEGAWAI
Authors: Muwafik Mohammad
Published: November 2020

This study aims to get the results of the study background of frequent occurrence and out of the employee, the employee's performance has not fulfilled what is expected by the leadership, the study include: (1) competence, motivation and performance of employees, (2) The relationship of competence and motivation, (3) the effect of competence on employee performance, (4) the effect of motivation on employee performance.This type of research is descriptive and verification. The population is Sinarmas Bank branch employees Cirebon. The number of samples taken as many as 215 samples are taken with the withdrawal of a random sample method. Model the effect of using Structurall Equation Modeling (SEM) with LISREL 8.80. The results of this study have suitability in explaining linkages between variables. the results showed that: Competence, motivation and performance of employees are in the good category. Competence and motivation are intimately connected, competencies influence on employee performance, and motivation influence on employee performance.
PENGARUH BRAND VALUE DAN SALES REVENUE TERHADAP KINERJA PERUSAHAAN (Studi Kasus Pada Samsung Elektronik Global)
Authors: Karyani Chitra Adria
Published: November 2020

Penelitian ini melihat ketatnya persaingan bisnis terutama dalam bidang industri elektronik yang menjadi pemicu bagi Samsung Elektronik Global untuk terus mengembangkan inovasinya. Hal ini dilakukan agar Samsung dapat mengembangkan dan meningkatkan nilai merek dari Samsung itu sendiri serta meningkatkan penjualan produknya, yang pada akhirnya akan memicu peningkatan kinerja perusahaannya, dimana dalam hal ini dilihat dari keuntungan yang didapat oleh perusahaan. Pendekatan penelitian ini adalah kuantitatif. Sedangkan metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah metode Survey dengan teknik analisis deskriptif. Data didapatkan dari hasil observasi, dokumentasi, serta didukung oleh library research. Populasi pada penelitian ini adalah Samsung Elektronik Global, dengan total sampel sebanyak 11 sampel (data: time series dengan tools EViews 8). Pengambilan sampel yang digunakan adalah metode sampling acak jenuh. Untuk menganalisis data, digunakan uji asumsi klasik, uji analisis regresi berganda, Uji t, dan Uji F. Penelitian ini menyatakan (1) brand value pada Samsung Elektronik Global pada periode 2003-2013 secara keseluruhan mengalami peningkatan. (2) kondisi sales revenue pada Samsung Elektronik Global dari tahun 2003 sampai dengan 2013 mengalami peningkatan. (3) perkembangan kinerja perusahaan pada Samsung Elektronik Global periode 2003-2013 mengalami trend yang sangat fluktuasi. (4) terdapat hubungan yang kuat dan searah secara simultan antara brand value dan sales revenue terhadap kinerja perusahaan Samsung Elektronik Global.
Eski Anadolu Türkçesiyle Yazılmış Bir Tefsirin Cümle Yapısı
Authors: ŞAN Funda
Published: November 2020

Eski Anadolu Türkçesi döneminde yazılan eserler arasında Kur’an tercüme ve tefsirleri önemli yer tutar. Bu tercüme ve tefsirlerin kimi tüm Kur’an’ı ele alırken kimi de sadece bir kısmını / bir cüzünü esas alır. Bu cüz tefsirlerinin en bilineni, Kur’an’ın son cüzü, otuzuncu cüzünde yer alan Amme Cüzü tefsiridir. Eski Anadolu Türkçesi döneminde yazılmış Amme Cüzü tefsirlerinden biri de Üveys bin Hoca Osmân bin Emîr İlyâs bin Evliyâ tarafından yazılan Amme Cüzü Tefsiridir. 14. yüzyılın sonu ile 15. yüzyılın başlarında yazıldığı tahmin edilen tefsir, döneminin dil özelliklerini iyi yansıtması bakımından incelemeye değer mensur bir eserdir. Yüksek lisans tezi olarak hazırladığımız metnin söz varlığı ve gramer yapısının yanı sıra dikkat çeken dil özelliklerinden biri de metnin cümle yapılarıdır. Devrik cümleler ve Farsça cümle yapılarının bolca yer aldığı eser, adeta vaaz havasında bir konuşma üslubuyla kaleme alınmıştır. Araştırmalarımız sonucunda hakkında ayrıntılı bilgi bulamadığımız müellifin, giriş kısmına düştüğü nottan bir din hocasının oğlu olduğu anlaşılmaktadır. Kendisinin de bir hoca olması muhtemel olan müellif, eserini halka hitap eder gibi yazmıştır. Bu konuşma üslubu, doğal olarak söz dizimine de yansımıştır. Kısa kısa ve birbirini takip eden cümleler, bağlaçlarla birbirine bağlanmış; böylece birkaç satırı bulan uzun cümleler oluşturulmuştur. Metnin cümle yapısında karşımıza çıkan devrik ve birleşik cümleler ile cümle başındaki zarf ve bağlaçlarla kurulan cümleler Eski Anadolu Türkçesi döneminin söz dizimi yapısını göstermesi açısından önemlidir. Dört nüshası bulunan eserin Süleymaniye nüshası esas alınarak hazırlanan bu yazıda metinden alıntılanan bazı cümle örnekleri tasniflenerek incelenmeye çalışılmıştır.