bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lasting DNA Damage and Aberrant DNA Repair Gene Expression Profile Are Associated with Post-Chronic Cadmium Exposure in Human Bronchial Epithelial Cells
Authors: Tan Heng Wee , Liang Zhan-Ling , Yao Yue , Wu Dan-Dan , Mo Hai-Ying , Gu Jiang , Chiu Jen-Fu , Xu Yan-Ming , Lau Andy T. Y.
Published: August 2019

Cadmium (Cd) is a widespread environmental pollutant and carcinogen. Although the exact mechanisms of Cd-induced carcinogenesis remain unclear, previous acute/chronic Cd exposure studies have shown that Cd exerts its cytotoxic and carcinogenic effects through multiple mechanisms, including interference with the DNA repair system. However, the effects of post-chronic Cd exposure remain unknown. Here, we establish a unique post-chronic Cd-exposed human lung cell model (the “CR0” cells) and investigate the effects of post-chronic Cd exposure on the DNA repair system. We found that the CR0 cells retained Cd-resistant property even though it was grown in Cd-free culture medium for over a year. The CR0 cells had lasting DNA damage due to reduced DNA repair capacity and an aberrant DNA repair gene expression profile. A total of 12 DNA repair genes associated with post-chronic Cd exposure were identified, and they could be potential biomarkers for identifying post-chronic Cd exposure. Clinical database analysis suggests that some of the DNA repair genes play a role in lung cancer patients with different smoking histories. Generally, CR0 cells were more sensitive to chemotherapeutic (cisplatin, gemcitabine, and vinorelbine tartrate) and DNA damaging (H2O2) agents, which may represent a double-edged sword for cancer prevention and treatment. Overall, we demonstrated for the first time that the effects of post-chronic Cd exposure on human lung cells are long-lasting and different from that of acute and chronic exposures. Findings from our study unveiled a new perspective on Cd-induced carcinogenesis—the post-chronic exposure of Cd. This study encourages the field of post-exposure research which is crucial but has long been ignored.
Current Status in Testing for Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) and Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH)
Authors: Drescher Hannah , Weiskirchen Sabine , Weiskirchen Ralf
Published: August 2019

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease in Western countries with almost 25% affected adults worldwide. The growing public health burden is getting evident when considering that NAFLD-related liver transplantations are predicted to almost double within the next 20 years. Typically, hepatic alterations start with simple steatosis, which easily progresses to more advanced stages such as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), fibrosis and cirrhosis. This course of disease finally leads to end-stage liver disease such as hepatocellular carcinoma, which is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Although clinical trials show promising results, there is actually no pharmacological agent approved to treat NASH. Another important problem associated with NASH is that presently the liver biopsy is still the gold standard in diagnosis and for disease staging and grading. Because of its invasiveness, this technique is not well accepted by patients and the method is prone to sampling error. Therefore, an urgent need exists to find reliable, accurate and noninvasive biomarkers discriminating between different disease stages or to develop innovative imaging techniques to quantify steatosis.
Chronotype-Dependent Changes in Sleep Habits Associated with Dim Light Melatonin Onset in the Antarctic Summer
Authors: Silva Ana , Simón Diego , Pannunzio Bruno , Casaravilla Cecilia , Díaz Álvaro , Tassino Bettina
Published: August 2019

Dim light melatonin onset (DLMO) is the most reliable measure of human central circadian timing. Its modulation by light exposure and chronotype has been scarcely approached. We evaluated the impact of light changes on the interaction between melatonin, sleep, and chronotype in university students (n = 12) between the Antarctic summer (10 days) and the autumn equinox in Montevideo, Uruguay (10 days). Circadian preferences were tested by validated questionnaires. A Morningness–Eveningness Questionnaire average value (47 ± 8.01) was used to separate late and early participants. Daylight exposure (measured by actimetry) was significantly higher in Antarctica versus Montevideo in both sensitive time windows (the morning phase-advancing and the evening phase-delaying). Melatonin was measured in hourly saliva samples (18–24 h) collected in dim light conditions (<30 lx) during the last night of each study period. Early and late participants were exposed to similar amounts of light in both sites and time windows, but only early participants were significantly more exposed during the late evening in Antarctica. Late participants advanced their DLMO with no changes in sleep onset time in Antarctica, while early participants delayed their DLMO and sleep onset time. This different susceptibility to respond to light may be explained by a subtle difference in evening light exposure between chronotypes.
Electrochemical Detection of Dopamine Based on Functionalized Electrodes
Authors: Ouellette Mathieu , Mathault Jessy , Niyonambaza Shimwe Dominique , Miled Amine , Boisselier Elodie
Published: August 2019

The rapid electrochemical identification and quantification of neurotransmitters being a challenge in the ever-growing field of neuroelectronics, we aimed to facilitate the electrochemical selective detection of dopamine by functionalizing commercially available electrodes through the deposition of a thin film containing pre-formed gold nanoparticles. The influence of different parameters and experimental conditions, such as buffer solution, fiber material, concentration, and cyclic voltammetry (CV) cycle number, were tested during neurotransmitter detection. In each case, without drastically changing the outcome of the functionalization process, the selectivity towards dopamine was improved. The detected oxidation current for dopamine was increased by 92%, while ascorbic acid and serotonin oxidation currents were lowered by 66% under the best conditions. Moreover, dopamine sensing was successfully achieved in tandem with home-made triple electrodes and an in-house built potentiostat at a high scan rate mode.
Literature Review on Fretting Wear and Contact Mechanics of Tribological Coatings
Authors: Ma Lifeng , Eom Kilho , Geringer Jean , Jun Tea-Sung , Kim Kyungmok
Published: August 2019

This article reviews fretting wear damage in industries and in the contact mechanics of coated systems. Micro-slip motion resulting in fretting damage is discussed along with major experimental factors. The experimental factors, including normal force, relative displacement, frequency and medium influence are directly compared. Industrial solutions to reduce fretting damages are then discussed. The contact mechanics of a coated system are reviewed to quantify stress states in a coating layer and the substrate. Finally, a literature review on simulation for fretting is carried out. This review study provides useful methods and practical solutions to minimize fretting wear damage.
Biological Crystallization
Authors: Gómez-Morales Jaime , Falini Giuseppe , García-Ruiz Juan Manuel
Published: August 2019

“Biological Crystallization” is today a very wide topic that includes biomineralization, but also the laboratory crystallization of biological compounds such as macromolecules, carbohydrates or lipids, and the synthesis and fabrication of biomimetic materials by different routes [...]
Diagnostic Accuracy of Ultrasound in the Diagnosis of Small Bowel Obstruction
Authors: Tamburrini Stefania , Lugarà Marina , Iaselli Francesco , Saturnino Pietro Paolo , Liguori Carlo , Carbone Roberto , Vecchione Daniela , Abete Roberta , Tammaro Pasquale , Marano Ines
Published: August 2019

Introduction: Small bowel obstruction (SBO) is a common presentation to the Emergency Department (ED). This study aimed to analyze the accuracy of ultrasound (US) in diagnosing and staging SBO. Objectives: The main object of this study was to analyze the accuracy of ultrasound in diagnosing and staging SBO compared to CT. Methods: Retrospectively, stable patients with an ultrasonographic diagnosis of SBO who underwent abdominal CT immediately after US and before receiving naso-intestinal decompression, were included. US criteria for the diagnosis of SBO were related to morphological and functional findings. US diagnosis of obstruction was made if fluid-filled dilated small bowel loops were detected, peristalsis was abnormal and parietal abnormalities were present. Morphologic and functional sonographic findings were assigned to three categories: simple SBO, compensated SBO and decompensated SBO. US findings were compared with the results of CT examinations: Morphologic CT findings (divided into loop, vascular, mesenteric and peritoneal signs) allowed the classification of SBO in simple, decompensated and complicated. Results: US diagnostic accuracy rates in relation to CT results were calculated: ultrasound compared to CT imaging, had a sensitivity of 92.31% (95% CI, 74.87% to 99.05%) and a specificity of 94.12% (95% CI, 71.31% to 99.85%) in the diagnosis of SBO. Conclusions: This study, similarly to the existing literature, suggests that ultrasound is highly accurate in the diagnosis of SBO, and that the most valuable sonographic signs are the presence of dilated bowel loops ad abnormal peristalsis.
Measurement of Oral Epithelial Thickness by Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Di Stasio Dario , Lauritano Dorina , Iquebal Hasan , Romano Antonio , Gentile Enrica , Lucchese Alberta
Published: August 2019

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a real-time, in-situ, non-invasive imaging device that is able to perform a cross-sectional evaluation of tissue microstructure based on the specific intensity of back-scattered and reflected light. The aim of the present study was to define normal values of epithelial thickness within the oral cavity. OCT measurements of epithelial thickness were performed in 28 healthy patients at six different locations within the oral cavity. Image analysis was performed using Image J 1.52 software. The healthy epithelium has a mean thickness of 335.59 ± 150.73 µm. According to its location within the oral cavity, the epithelium showed highest values in the region of the buccal mucosa (659.79 µm) and the thinnest one was observed in the mouth’s floor (100.07 µm). OCT has been shown to be useful for the evaluation of oral mucosa in vivo and in real time. Our study provides reference values for the epithelial thickness of multiple sites within the oral cavity. Knowledge of the thickness values of healthy mucosa is, therefore, of fundamental importance.
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Cortes Rivera Mateo , Mastronardi Claudio , Silva-Aldana Claudia , Arcos-Burgos Mauricio , Lidbury Brett
Published: August 2019

Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a debilitating chronic disease of unknown aetiology that is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United States Center for Disease Control and Prevention (US CDC) as a disorder of the brain. The disease predominantly affects adults, with a peak age of onset of between 20 and 45 years with a female to male ratio of 3:1. Although the clinical features of the disease have been well established within diagnostic criteria, the diagnosis of ME/CFS is still of exclusion, meaning that other medical conditions must be ruled out. The pathophysiological mechanisms are unclear but the neuro-immuno-endocrinological pattern of CFS patients gleaned from various studies indicates that these three pillars may be the key point to understand the complexity of the disease. At the moment, there are no specific pharmacological therapies to treat the disease, but several studies’ aims and therapeutic approaches have been described in order to benefit patients’ prognosis, symptomatology relief, and the recovery of pre-existing function. This review presents a pathophysiological approach to understanding the essential concepts of ME/CFS, with an emphasis on the population, clinical, and genetic concepts associated with ME/CFS.
High-Resolution Bistatic ISAR Imaging of a Space Target with Sparse Aperture
Authors: Shi Lin , Zhu Xiaoxiu , Shang Chaoxuan , Guo Baofeng , Ma Juntao , Han Ning
Published: August 2019

Due to the large size of space targets, migration through resolution cells (MTRC) are induced by a rotational motion in high-resolution bistatic inverse synthetic aperture radar (Bi-ISAR) systems. The inaccurate correction of MTRC degrades the quality of Bi-ISAR images. However, it is challenging to correct the MTRC where sparse aperture data exists for Bi-ISAR systems. A joint approach of MTRC correction and sparse high-resolution imaging for Bi-ISAR systems is presented in this paper. First, a Bi-ISAR imaging sparse model-related to MTRC is established based on compress sensing (CS). Second, the target image elements and noise are modeled as the complex Laplace prior, and the Gaussian prior, respectively. Finally, the high-resolution, well-focused image is obtained by the full Bayesian inference method, without manual adjustments of unknown parameters. Simulated results verify the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed algorithm.
Control Design of LCL Type Grid-Connected Inverter Based on State Feedback Linearization
Authors: Yang Longyue , Feng Chunchun , Liu Jianhua
Published: August 2019

Control strategy is the key technology of power electronic converter equipment. In order to solve the problem of controller design, a general design method is presented in this paper, which is more convenient to use computer machine learning and provides design rules for high-order power electronic system. With the higher order system Lie derivative, the nonlinear system is mapped to a controllable standard type, and then classical linear system control method is adopted to design the controller. The simulation and experimental results show that the two controllers have good steady-state control performance and dynamic response performance.
Resource Security Strategies and Their Environmental and Economic Implications: A Case Study of Copper Production in Japan
Authors: Motoori Ran , McLellan Benjamin , Chapman Andrew , Tezuka Tetsuo
Published: August 2019

Japan is a nation which is highly dependent on the import of raw materials to supply its manufacturing industry, notable among them copper. When extracting copper from ore, a large amount of energy is required, typically leading to high levels of CO2 emissions due to the fossil fuel-dominated energy mix. Moreover, maintaining security of raw material supply is difficult if imports are the only source utilized. This study examines the environmental and economic impacts of domestic mineral production from the recycling of end-of-life products and deep ocean mining as strategies to reduce CO2 emissions and enhance security of raw material supplies. The results indicate that under the given assumptions, recycling, which is typically considered to be less CO2 intensive, produces higher domestic emissions than current copper processing, although across the whole supply chain shows promise. As the total quantity of domestic resources from deep ocean ores are much smaller than the potential from recycling, it is possible that recycling could become a mainstream supply alternative, while deep ocean mining is more likely to be a niche supply source. Implications of a progressively aging society and flow-on impacts for the recycling sector are discussed.
Reduction of Prediction Errors for the Matrix Converter with an Improved Model Predictive Control
Authors: Feng Shuang , Wei Chaofan , Lei Jiaxing
Published: August 2019

In this paper, an improved model predictive control (MPC) is proposed for the matrix converter (MC). First, the conventional MPC which adopts the separately discretized prediction models is discussed. It shows that the conventional MPC ignores the input–output interaction in every sampling period. Consequently, additional prediction errors arise, resulting in more current harmonics. Second, the principle of the improved MPC is presented. With the interaction considered, the integral state-space equation of the whole MC system is constructed and discretized to obtain the precise model. The eigenvalue analysis shows that the proposed prediction model has the same eigenvalues with the continuous model, and thus is more accurate than the conventional one to describe the MC’s behavior in every sampling period. Finally, experimental results under various working conditions prove that the proposed approach can always increase the control accuracy and reduce the harmonic distortions, which in turn requires smaller filter components.
Allometric Equations for Estimating the Above-Ground Biomass of Five Forest Tree Species in Khangai, Mongolia
Authors: Altanzagas Batbaatar , Luo Yongkai , Altansukh Batbaatar , Dorjsuren Chimidnyam , Fang Jingyun , Hu Huifeng
Published: August 2019

Understanding the contribution of forest ecosystems to regulating greenhouse gas emissions and maintaining the atmospheric CO2 balance requires the accurate quantification of above-ground biomass (AGB) at the individual tree species level. The main objective of this study was to develop species-specific allometric equations for the total AGB and various biomass components, including stem, branch, and foliage biomass in Khangai region, northern Mongolia. We destructively sampled a total of 183 trees of five species (22–74 trees per species), including Siberian stone pine (Pinus sibirica Du Tour.), Asian white birch (Betula platyphylla Sukacz.), Mongolian poplar (Populus suaveolens Fisch.), Siberian spruce (Picea obovata Ldb.), and Siberian larch (Larix sibirica Ldb.), across this region. The results showed that for the five species, the average biomass proportion for the stems was 75%, followed by branches at 20% and foliage at 5%. The species-specific component and total AGB models for the Khangai region were developed using tree diameter at breast height (D) and D² and tree height (H) combined ( D 2 H ); and both D and H were used as independent variables. The best allometric model was lnŶ = lna + b × lnD + c × lnH for the various components and total AGB of B. platyphylla and L. sibirica, for the stems and total AGB of P. suaveolens, and for the stem and branch biomass of P. obovata. The equation lnŶ = lna + b × ln( D 2 × H ) was best for the various components and total AGB of P. sibirica, for the branch and foliage biomass of P. suaveolens, and for AGB of P. obovata. The equation lnŶ = lna + b × ln(D) was best only for the foliage biomass of P. obovata. Our results highlight that developing species-specific tree AGB models is very important for accurately estimating the biomass in the Khangai forest region of Mongolia. Our biomass models will be used at the tree level inventories with sample plots in the Khangai forest region.
Optimizing the Stand Density of Robinia pseudoacacia L. Forests of the Loess Plateau, China, Based on Response to Soil Water and Soil Nutrient
Authors: Hou Guirong , Bi Huaxing , Wang Ning , Cui Yanhong , Ma Xiaozhi , Zhao Danyang , Wang Shanshan
Published: August 2019

Improving low-efficiency artificial forests represents a popular forest hydrological issue, and exploring the optimal stand density (OSD) of low-efficiency artificial forests is an effective method for improving the soil conditions of forestland to prevent the deterioration of ecological function. Water and nutrients were the main limiting factors for vegetation growth. However, relatively few studies addressed the optimization of stand density based on these two factors at the same time. In this study, a total of 176 standard plots (20 × 20 m2) with six stand densities (~500, ~1000, ~1500, ~2000, ~2500 and ~3000 plants·hm−2) were established to investigate the water resources (soil moisture content (SMC), soil evaporation rate (SER), and vegetation transpiration rate (VTR)) and soil nutrient resources (total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), total potassium (TK), calcium (CaCO3), organic matter content (OMC)) in low-efficiency Robinia pseudoacacia forestland on the Loess Plateau in western Shanxi, China from June to September each year from 2017 to 2018. The relationships between stand density and water and nutrient resources were analysed with the response surface method (RSM). The RSM results indicated that the OSD averaged 1594 plants·hm−2 and ranged from 940 to 2386 plants·hm−2. The percentage of standard plots with an unreasonable stand density was 35.29%, and 65% of these plots had a value that was higher than the maximum in the range while 35% had a value that was lower than the minimum. These results indicate that the current stand density should be manipulated to fall within the identified OSD range to ensure the normal functions of soil and water conservation in R. pseudoacacia forests. The results of this study serve as a guide for optimizing the stand density of low-efficiency R. pseudoacacia forests in China.
Egg Yolk Antioxidants Profiles: Effect of Diet Supplementation with Linseeds and Tomato-Red Pepper Mixture before and after Storage
Authors: Omri Besma , Alloui Nadir , Durazzo Alessandra , Lucarini Massimo , Aiello Alessandra , Romano Raffaele , Santini Antonello , Abdouli Hedi
Published: August 2019

This study evaluated the effect of dietary incorporation of linseed alone or along with dried tomato paste-pepper powder mix on egg physical characteristics, antioxidant profiles, lipid oxidative status, and yolk coloration before and after storage at 4 °C for one month. Sixty Novogen White laying hens, 27 weeks-old, were divided into three groups and given 100 g/hen/day of a standard diet (C), standard diet containing 4.5% of ground linseed (L), linseed diet containing 1% of dried tomato paste and 1% of sweet red pepper (LTP). Linseeds increased (p < 0.05) egg yolk antioxidant capacity but not lipid oxidative stability (p > 0.05). However, dietary inclusion of LTP did not improve fresh egg yolk antioxidant activity and lipid oxidation stability (p > 0.05). With reference to the stored eggs, only antioxidant activity measured by phosphomolybdenum reduction and lipid oxidative stability were influenced (p < 0.05) by the dietary treatment. Fresh egg yolk of hens fed on linseeds tended to have a slightly more yellow, redder, and less light color than the eggs of hens fed with the control diet. Dietary supplementation of LTP increased (p < 0.05) the Roche yolk color fan (RYCF) score and redness (a*) and decreased (p < 0.05) lightness (L*) without affecting (p > 0.05) saturation (C*). Storage of hens’ eggs fed on the control diet did not influence (p > 0.05) yolk color.
Evidence of Segmentation in the Iberia–Africa Plate Boundary: A Jurassic Heritage?
Authors: Fernàndez Manel , Torne Montserrat , Vergés Jaume , Casciello Emilio , Macchiavelli Chiara
Published: August 2019

The present structure of the Iberia–Africa plate boundary between the Gorringe Bank and the Algerian Basin is characterized by a highly segmented geometry and diffused seismicity. Filtered Bouguer gravity data show conspicuous highs coinciding with the Gorringe Bank, the Guadalquivir–Portimao Bank, and the Ronda/Beni–Bousera massifs, reflecting the current geometry of the plate boundary segments. The Africa–Eurasia Alpine convergence produced crustal-scale thrusting in the Atlantic segments and roll-back subduction in the Ligurian–Tethys segments. Despite the growing consensus that the Gorringe and the Guadalquivir–Portimao Banks resulted from tectonic inversion of hyperextended margin structures inherited from the Early Jurassic, this heritage is more debatable for the Ronda/Beni–Bousera massifs lacking models linking the Atlantic and Mediterranean realms. On the basis of gravity analysis combined with plate reconstruction models, geological cross-sections, and recent local tomography, we infer a strong Jurassic heritage of the present-day segmentation and substantiate a comprehensive tectonic evolution model of the Iberia–Africa plate boundary since the Early Jurassic to Recent that includes the Atlantic and the Mediterranean domains.
Imaginary Landscapes: Sublime and Saturated Phenomena in “Kubla Khan” and the Arab Dream
Authors: Falke Cassandra
Published: August 2019

This article considers “Kubla Khan” and the the Arab dream section from the fifth book The Prelude as precursors to the recently theorized concept of saturated phenomenality. Both Coleridge and Wordsworth insist on the limitedness of their dream subjects even as they magnify their dreamt of landscapes to heights of sublimity. Falke describes the implications that this insistence on smallness has for relating experiences of sublime landscapes to experiences of reading or writing poetry.
The Body as an Object of Stigmatization in Cultures of Guilt and Shame: A Polish–Vietnamese Comparison
Authors: Lipowska Małgorzata , Truong Thi Khanh Ha , Lipowski Mariusz , Różycka-Tran Joanna , Bidzan Mariola , Ha Thu
Published: August 2019

The aim of this paper is to examine cross-cultural differences in body stigmatization between the individualistic Christian culture of guilt (Poland) and the collectivistic Buddhist/Confucian culture of honor and shame (Vietnam). The study included 1290 university students from Poland (n = 586) and Vietnam (n = 704). Subjects filled in the body esteem scale and the perceived stigmatization questionnaire, and body measurements were collected to calculate anthropometric indices. Participants from Vietnam were less satisfied with their appearance than their Polish peers. Men in both countries assessed themselves more favorably. No anthropometric index predicted body esteem in Vietnamese women, while only indices related to fat levels were predictors in Polish women. Men with a V-shaped body assessed themselves as stronger and as having a better physical condition. A possible explanation of the observed cross-cultural differences is that interdependent self-construal makes young adults in collectivistic societies more susceptible to criticism, and the Confucian values of modesty and shame lead to them not perceiving their bodies as sexual objects. The Christian sense of guilt does not influence the perception of sexuality. Absence of friendly behavior mediated the relation between anthropometric indices and body esteem in both cultures.
Trends in Sedentary Behavior, Physical Activity, and Motivation during a Classroom-Based Active Video Game Program
Authors: Fu You , Burns Ryan D. , Gomes Emma , Savignac Amy , Constantino Nora
Published: August 2019

The purpose of this preliminary study was to investigate trends in children’s sedentary behavior (SB), physical activity (PA), and motivation during a 12 week classroom-based Active Video Game (AVG) program. A sample of 16 children, recruited from an elementary school, participated in AVG for 30 minutes per school day for 12 consecutive weeks. School day time in SB and PA, in addition to step counts, were assessed across 12 weeks using accelerometers and motivation was assessed via questionnaires. Mixed effects models with a quadratic time parameter were employed to examine time trends. A significant negative trend was observed for SB, while light and vigorous PA and step counts yielded positive trends until approximately 8–9 weeks where a quadratic inflection point was observed (p < 0.001). Regarding motivational variables, enjoyment and social support from teachers significantly increased across 12 weeks (p < 0.05). A 12 week classroom AVG program yielded a positive trend in school day light and vigorous PA and step counts, and a negative trend in SB until 8–9 weeks into the program. This study supports the use of low-cost classroom-based AVG programs to improve children’s physical and mental health, but favorable PA trends were attenuated past 8–9 weeks.
Current Knowledge of the Potential Links between Inflammation and Prostate Cancer
Authors: Cai Tommaso , Santi Raffaella , Tamanini Irene , Galli Ilaria Camilla , Perletti Gianpaolo , Bjerklund Johansen Truls E. , Nesi Gabriella
Published: August 2019

Inflammation is inherent in prostatic diseases and it is now accepted that it may facilitate cellular proliferation in both benign and malignant conditions. The strong relationship between prostatic inflammation and pathogenesis of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is supported by epidemiologic, histopathologic and molecular evidence. Contrariwise, the role of inflammation in prostate carcinogenesis is still controversial, although current data indicate that the inflammatory microenvironment can regulate prostate cancer (PCa) growth and progression. Knowledge of the complex molecular landscape associated with chronic inflammation in the context of PCa may lead to the introduction and optimization of novel targeted therapies. In this perspective, evaluation of the inflammatory component in prostate specimens could be included in routine pathology reports.
Sequence and Evolutionary Features for the Alternatively Spliced Exons of Eukaryotic Genes
Authors: Chen Shi-Yi , Li Cao , Jia Xianbo , Lai Song-Jia
Published: August 2019

Alternative splicing of pre-mRNAs is a crucial mechanism for maintaining protein diversity in eukaryotes without requiring a considerable increase of genes in the number. Due to rapid advances in high-throughput sequencing technologies and computational algorithms, it is anticipated that alternative splicing events will be more intensively studied to address different kinds of biological questions. The occurrences of alternative splicing mean that all exons could be classified to be either constitutively or alternatively spliced depending on whether they are virtually included into all mature mRNAs. From an evolutionary point of view, therefore, the alternatively spliced exons would have been associated with distinctive biological characteristics in comparison with constitutively spliced exons. In this paper, we first outline the representative types of alternative splicing events and exon classification, and then review sequence and evolutionary features for the alternatively spliced exons. The main purpose is to facilitate understanding of the biological implications of alternative splicing in eukaryotes. This knowledge is also helpful to establish computational approaches for predicting the splicing pattern of exons.
Osteostatin Inhibits Collagen-Induced Arthritis by Regulation of Immune Activation, Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines, and Osteoclastogenesis
Authors: Nácher-Juan Josep , Terencio María Carmen , Alcaraz María José , Ferrándiz María Luisa
Published: August 2019

In chronic inflammatory joint diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, there is an important bone loss. Parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) and related peptides have shown osteoinductive properties in bone regeneration models, but there are no data on inflammatory joint destruction. We have investigated whether the PTHrP (107-111) C-terminal peptide (osteostatin) could control the development of collagen-induced arthritis in mice. Administration of osteostatin (80 or 120 μg/kg s.c.) after the onset of disease decreased the severity of arthritis as well as cartilage and bone degradation. This peptide reduced serum IgG2a levels as well as T cell activation, with the downregulation of RORγt+CD4+ T cells and upregulation of FoxP3+CD8+ T cells in lymph nodes. The levels of key cytokines, such as interleukin(IL)-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-17, and tumor necrosis factor-α in mice paws were decreased by osteostatin treatment, whereas IL-10 was enhanced. Bone protection was related to reductions in receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand, Dickkopf-related protein 1, and joint osteoclast area. Osteostatin improves arthritis and controls bone loss by inhibiting immune activation, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and osteoclastogenesis. Our results support the interest of osteostatin for the treatment of inflammatory joint conditions.
Critical Output Torque of a GHz CNT-Based Rotation Transmission System Via Axial Interface Friction at Low Temperature
Authors: Wu Puwei , Shi Jiao , Wang Jinbao , Shen Jianhu , Cai Kun
Published: August 2019

It was discovered that a sudden jump of the output torque moment from a rotation transmission nanosystem made from carbon nanotubes (CNTs) occurred when decreasing the system temperature. In the nanosystem from coaxial-layout CNTs, the motor with specified rotational frequency (ωM) can drive the inner tube (rotor) to rotate in the outer tubes. When the axial gap between the motor and the rotor was fixed, the friction between their neighbor edges was stronger at a lower temperature. Especially at temperatures below 100 K, the friction-induced driving torque increases with ωM. When the rotor was subjected to an external resistant torque moment (Mr), it could not rotate opposite to the motor even if it deformed heavily. Combining molecular dynamics simulations with the bi-sectioning algorithm, the critical value of Mr was obtained. Under the critical torque moment, the rotor stopped rotating. Accordingly, a transmission nanosystem can be designed to provide a strong torque moment via interface friction at low temperature.
Tools in the Investigation of Volatile Semiochemicals on Insects: From Sampling to Statistical Analysis
Authors: Barbosa-Cornelio Ricardo , Cantor Fernando , Coy-Barrera Ericsson , Rodríguez Daniel
Published: August 2019

The recognition of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) involved in insect interactions with plants or other organisms is essential for constructing a holistic comprehension of their role in ecology, from which the implementation of new strategies for pest and disease vector control as well as the systematic exploitation of pollinators and natural enemies can be developed. In the present paper, some of the general methods employed in this field are examined, focusing on their available technologies. An important part of the investigations conducted in this context begin with VOC collection directly from host organisms, using classical extraction methods, by the employment of adsorption materials used in solid-phase micro extraction (SPME) and direct-contact sorptive extraction (DCSE) and, subsequently, analysis through instrumental analysis techniques such as gas chromatography (GC), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and mass spectrometry (MS), which provide crucial information for determining the chemical identity of volatile metabolites. Behavioral experiments, electroantennography (EAG), and biosensors are then carried out to define the semiochemicals with the best potential for performing relevant functions in ecological relationships. Chemical synthesis of biologically-active VOCs is alternatively performed to scale up the amount to be used in different purposes such as laboratory or field evaluations. Finally, the application of statistical analysis provides tools for drawing conclusions about the type of correlations existing between the diverse experimental variables and data matrices, thus generating models that simplify the interpretation of the biological roles of VOCs.
Process Analysis on Milled Optical Surfaces in Hardened Stainless Steel
Authors: Groeb Marvin , Fritz Matthias
Published: August 2019

The capability to produce surfaces in optical quality is of rising prominence in the manufacturing industry. The die and mold industry have to meet rising requirements with regard to the surface finish and geometric precision, to keep pace with technological advances in sectors such as illumination, optical sensors, and fiber technology. This paper focuses on the challenges of developing a sample milling process for optical surface finishes in 53 HRC STAVAX stainless steel. Besides the expected process and tooling parameter variations, three prominent material analytics methods were used to evaluate all experiments. The tool wear was analyzed and monitored via SEM and EDS. To verify the milling process capabilities, a sample was produced through manual polishing and then analyzed for material faults via nanoindentation and BSE analysis. The finished results were measured for their surface roughness via bifocal laser microscopy and for their topography SEM. In the practical application, a surface roughness Ra in the single digit nano-meter range was achieved. A stable finishing process was achieved at high rotational speed with feed rates up to 750 mm/min. A practical cleaning solution with the use of a mild lye was found.
Annealing-Induced Changes in the Nature of Point Defects in Sublimation-Grown Cubic Silicon Carbide
Authors: Schöler Michael , Brecht Clemens , Wellmann Peter J.
Published: August 2019

In recent years, cubic silicon carbide (3C-SiC) has gained increasing interest as semiconductor material for energy saving and optoelectronic applications, such as intermediate-band solar cells, photoelectrochemical water splitting, and quantum key distribution, just to name a few. All these applications critically depend on further understanding of defect behavior at the atomic level and the possibility to actively control distinct defects. In this work, dopants as well as intrinsic defects were introduced into the 3C-SiC material in situ during sublimation growth. A series of isochronal temperature treatments were performed in order to investigate the temperature-dependent annealing behavior of point defects. The material was analyzed by temperature-dependent photoluminescence (PL) measurements. In our study, we found a variation in the overall PL intensity which can be considered as an indication of annealing-induced changes in structure, composition or concentration of point defects. Moreover, a number of dopant-related as well as intrinsic defects were identified. Among these defects, there were strong indications for the presence of the negatively charged nitrogen vacancy complex (NC–VSi)−, which is considered a promising candidate for spin qubits.
Cold Isostatic Pressing to Improve the Mechanical Performance of Additively Manufactured Metallic Components
Authors: Cuesta Isidoro Iván , Martínez-Pañeda Emilio , Díaz Andrés , Alegre Jesús Manuel
Published: August 2019

Additive manufacturing is becoming a technique with great prospects for the production of components with new designs or shapes that are difficult to obtain by conventional manufacturing methods. One of the most promising techniques for printing metallic components is binder jetting, due to its time efficiency and its ability to generate complex parts. In this process, a liquid binding agent is selectively deposited to adhere the powder particles of the printing material. Once the metallic piece is generated, it undergoes a subsequent process of curing and sintering to increase its density (hot isostatic pressing). In this work, we propose subjecting the manufactured component to an additional post-processing treatment involving the application of a high hydrostatic pressure (5000 bar) at room temperature. This post-processing technique, so-called cold isostatic pressing (CIP), is shown to increase the yield load and the maximum carrying capacity of an additively manufactured AISI 316L stainless steel. The mechanical properties, with and without CIP processing, are estimated by means of the small punch test, a suitable experimental technique to assess the mechanical response of small samples. In addition, we investigate the porosity and microstructure of the material according to the orientations of layer deposition during the manufacturing process. Our observations reveal a homogeneous distribution independent of these orientations, evidencing thus an isotropic behaviour of the material.
Leaf Age-Dependent Effects of Foliar-Sprayed CuZn Nanoparticles on Photosynthetic Efficiency and ROS Generation in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Sperdouli Ilektra , Moustaka Julietta , Antonoglou Orestis , Adamakis Ioannis-Dimosthenis S. , Dendrinou-Samara Catherine , Moustakas Michael
Published: August 2019

Young and mature leaves of Arabidopsis thaliana were exposed by foliar spray to 30 mg L−1 of CuZn nanoparticles (NPs). The NPs were synthesized by a microwave-assisted polyol process and characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). CuZn NPs effects in Arabidopsis leaves were evaluated by chlorophyll fluorescence imaging analysis that revealed spatiotemporal heterogeneity of the quantum efficiency of PSII photochemistry (ΦPSΙΙ) and the redox state of the plastoquinone (PQ) pool (qp), measured 30 min, 90 min, 180 min, and 240 min after spraying. Photosystem II (PSII) function in young leaves was observed to be negatively influenced, especially 30 min after spraying, at which point increased H2O2 generation was correlated to the lower oxidized state of the PQ pool. Recovery of young leaves photosynthetic efficiency appeared only after 240 min of NPs spray when also the level of ROS accumulation was similar to control leaves. On the contrary, a beneficial effect on PSII function in mature leaves after 30 min of the CuZn NPs spray was observed, with increased ΦPSΙΙ, an increased electron transport rate (ETR), decreased singlet oxygen (1O2) formation, and H2O2 production at the same level of control leaves.An explanation for this differential response is suggested.
An Overview of Recent Standard and Accelerated Molecular Dynamics Simulations of Helium Behavior in Tungsten
Authors: Sandoval Luis , Perez Danny , Uberuaga Blas P. , Voter Arthur F.
Published: August 2019

One of the most critical challenges for the successful adoption of nuclear fusion power corresponds to plasma-facing materials. Due to its favorable properties in this context (low sputtering yield, high thermal conductivity, high melting point, among others), tungsten is a leading candidate material. Nevertheless, tungsten is affected by the plasma and fusion byproducts. Irradiation by helium nuclei, in particular, strongly modifies the surface structure by a synergy of processes, whose origin is the nucleation and growth of helium bubbles. In this review, we present recent advances in the understanding of helium effects in tungsten from a simulational approach based on accelerated molecular dynamics, which emphasizes the use of realistic parameters, as are expected in experimental and operational fusion power conditions.
Umbilical Venous Catheters and Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters: Are They Equally Safe in VLBW Infants? A Non-Randomized Single Center Study
Authors: Konstantinidi Aikaterini , Sokou Rozeta , Panagiotounakou Polytimi , Lampridou Maria , Parastatidou Stavroula , Tsantila Katerina , Gounari Eleni , Gounaris Antonios K.
Published: August 2019

Background and Objective: Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC) and umbilical venous catheters (UVC) are frequently used for vascular access in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). While there is a significant need for these devices for critically ill neonates, there are many complications associated with their use. We aimed at investigating the incidence of UVC and PICC complications in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants. Materials and Methods: This is an observational study performed with neonates of the tertiary General Hospital of Piraeus, Greece, during an 18 month-period. Seventy-one neonates were recruited and divided into two groups: 34 neonates with PICC and 37 neonates with UVC. We recorded: Catheter dwell time, the causes of catheter removal, other complications, infections, and catheter tip colonization rates. Results: No significant statistical differences were noticed between the 2 study groups with regards to demographic characteristics, causes for catheter removal, catheter indwelling time or the incidence of nosocomial infection. Eleven UVC tips and no PICC tips were proved colonized (p = 0.001) following catheter removal. Conclusions: The incidence of complications associated with the use of UVCs and PICCs in VLBW infants did not significantly differ in our study. Their use seems to be equally safe. Further studies, with larger samples, are necessary to confirm our results.
The Effects Induced by Spinal Manipulative Therapy on the Immune and Endocrine Systems
Authors: Colombi Andrea , Testa Marco
Published: August 2019

Background and Objectives: Spinal manipulations are interventions widely used by different healthcare professionals for the management of musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders. While previous theoretical principles focused predominantly on biomechanical accounts, recent models propose that the observed pain modulatory effects of this form of manual therapy may be the result of more complex mechanisms. It has been suggested that other phenomena like neurophysiological responses and the activation of the immune-endocrine system may explain variability in pain inhibition after the administration of spinal manipulative therapy (SMT). The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of the available evidence supporting the biological plausibility of high-velocity, low-amplitude thrust (HVLAT) on the immune-endocrine system. Materials and Methods: Narrative critical review. An electronic search on MEDLINE, ProQUEST, and Google Scholar followed by a hand and “snowballing” search were conducted to find relevant articles. Studies were included if they evaluated the effects of HVLAT on participants’ biomarkers. Results: The electronic search retrieved 13 relevant articles and two themes of discussion were developed. Nine studies investigated the effects of SMT on cortisol levels and five of them were conducted on symptomatic populations. Four studies examined the effects of SMT on the immune system and all of them were conducted on healthy individuals. Conclusions: Although spinal manipulations seem to trigger the activation of the neuroimmunoendocrine system, the evidence supporting a biological account for the application of HVLAT in clinical practice is mixed and conflicting. Further research on subjects with spinal MSK conditions with larger sample sizes are needed to obtain more insights about the biological effects of spinal manipulative therapy.