bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Tidal Cycles on Bacterial Biofilm Formation and Biocorrosion of Stainless Steel AISI 316L
Authors: Daille Leslie K. , Aguirre Javiera , Fischer Diego , Galarce Carlos , Armijo Francisco , Pizarro Gonzalo E. , Walczak Magdalena , De la Iglesia Rodrigo , Vargas Ignacio T.
Published: February 2020

The effects of tidal cycles associated with the water level on the biocorrosion of stainless steel AISI 316L were studied. Steel coupons were exposed to different conditions of immersion in mesocosms fed by fresh seawater either continuously or in accordance with the periodicity of natural tides. After 5 and 15 weeks, all coupons were found to have undergone ennoblement associated with the formation of a biofilm. Analysis of the composition of the bacterial community using denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) revealed differences in the biological succession. After 15 weeks, exposure to the simulated tidal conditions resulted in biofilms with lesser bacterial richness; the corresponding rate of corrosion, as determined by weight loss, was about 40 times lower compared to the case for the continuous exposure to seawater. Phylogenetic analysis of selected DGGE bands and the inspection of biofilm morphologies revealed that the faster rate of corrosion was associated with the presence of iron-oxidizing Zetaproteobacteria and eukaryotic photosynthetic microorganisms. On the other hand, intermittent exposure to seawater resulted in the succession of microorganisms resistant to the stress associated with sudden environmental changes, which was associated with a low rate of corrosion.
Effects of Design Factors on Drag Forces and Deformations on Marine Aquaculture Cages: A Parametric Study Based on Numerical Simulations
Authors: Dong Shuchuang , You Xinxing , Hu Fuxiang
Published: February 2020

In Japan, the marine aquaculture net cage has an important role in farming pacific bluefin tuna farming in oceans, and the design of the net cage needs to ensure robustness against hostile oceanic conditions. Accordingly, this study focuses on the drag forces and the cage volume of the net cage, and on their variations induced by different design parameters (netting solidity ratio, netting height, and bottom weight). A series of parametric studies on drag force and deformation of the net cage was conducted using a numerical simulation model. Accordingly, the contribution of each parameter to the drag and volume was analyzed using a generalized additive model. The results indicate that the bottom weight had the highest contribution to the holding ratio of the cage volume, whereas the netting height had the highest contribution to the drag coefficient of the net cage. Finally, a fast prediction model was created by a backpropagation (BP) neural network model and was examined for the accurate prediction of the objective variables.
Improved VIV Response Prediction Using Adaptive Parameters and Data Clustering
Authors: Wu Jie , Yin Decao , Lie Halvor , Riemer-Sørensen Signe , Sævik Svein , Triantafyllou Michael
Published: February 2020

Slender marine structures such as deep-water riser systems are continuously exposed to currents, leading to vortex-induced vibrations (VIV) of the structure. This may result in amplified drag loads and fast accumulation of fatigue damage. Consequently, accurate prediction of VIV responses is of great importance for the safe design and operation of marine risers. Model tests with elastic pipes have shown that VIV responses are influenced by many structural and hydrodynamic parameters, which have not been fully modelled in present frequency domain VIV prediction tools. Traditionally, predictions have been computed using a single set of hydrodynamic parameters, often leading to inconsistent prediction accuracy when compared with observed field measurements and experimental data. Hence, it is necessary to implement a high safety factor of 10–20 in the riser design, which increases development costs and adds extra constraints in the field operation. One way to compensate for the simplifications in the mathematical prediction model is to apply adaptive parameters to describe different riser responses. The objective of this work is to demonstrate a new method to improve the prediction consistency and accuracy by applying adaptive hydrodynamic parameters. In the present work, a four-step approach has been proposed: First, the measured VIV response will be analysed to identify key parameters to represent the response characteristics. These parameters will be grouped by using data clustering algorithms. Secondly, optimal hydrodynamic parameters will be identified for each data group by optimisation against measured data. Thirdly, the VIV response using the obtained parameters will be calculated and the prediction accuracy evaluated. Last but not least, classification algorithms will be applied to determine the correct hydrodynamic parameters to be used for new cases. An iteration of the previous steps may be needed if the prediction accuracy of the new case is not satisfactory. This concept has been demonstrated with examples from experimental data.
Photogrammetry: Linking the World across the Water Surface
Authors: Nocerino Erica , Menna Fabio
Published: February 2020

Three-dimensional (3D) surveying and modelling of the underwater environment is challenging; however, it becomes even more arduous when the scene or asset to measure extends from above to underwater through the water surface. While this is topic of high interest for a number of different application fields (engineering, geology, archeology), few solutions are available, usually expensive and with no guarantee of obtaining homogenous accuracy and resolution in the two media. This paper focuses on a procedure to survey and link the above and the underwater worlds based on photogrammetry. The two parts of the asset, above and underwater, are separately surveyed and then linked through two possible analytical procedures: (1) independent model adjustment or (2) relative orientation constraints. In the first case, rigid pre-calibrated rods are installed across the waterline on the object to be surveyed; in the second approach, a synchronized stereo-camera rig, with a camera in water and the other above the water, is employed. The theoretical foundation for the two approaches is provided and their effectiveness is proved through two challenging case studies: (1) the 3D survey of the leak of the Costa Concordia shipwreck and (2) 3D modelling of Grotta Giusti, a complex semi-submerged cave environment in Italy.
STORMTOOLS, Coastal Environmental Risk Index (CERI) Risk and Damage Assessment App
Authors: Spaulding Malcolm L. , Grilli Annette , Damon Chris , McKenna Brian , Christensen Michael , Vinhateiro Nathan , Boyd James , Fugate Grover
Published: February 2020

STORMTOOLS Coastal Environmental Risk Index (CERI) predicts the coastal flooding damage to individual structures using coastal flooding levels, including the effects of sea level rise (SLR), provided in terms of the base flood elevation (BFE), specifications of the structure of interest (type and first floor elevation) and the associated damage functions from the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers (USACE), North Atlantic Coast Comprehensive Study (NACCS). CERI has been applied to selected coastal communities in Rhode Island, including those in Narragansett Bay and along the southern Rhode Island shoreline. Users can access the results of CERI via ArcGIS online at the CERI website. The objective of this effort was to develop, test, distribute, and evaluate a mobile phone application (App) that allows the user to assess the risk from coastal flooding and the associated damage at the individual structure level using the CERI methodology. The App is publicly available and has been developed for both iOS and Android operating systems. Environmental data to support the App, in terms of 100 y flood BFE maps, including the effects of SLR and the selected site grade elevation, are provided in the application by the URI Environmental Data Center (EDC). The user enters the location and type of the structure of interest (residential number of stories, with or without basement, pile supported or commercial building and the first-floor elevation (FFE)) and the desired SLR. The App then calculates the percent structural damage based on the specified environmental conditions and structure specifications. The App can be applied to any structure at any coastal location within the state. The CERI App development project has been guided by an Advisory Board made up of key constituents involved in coastal management and development in the state. The effort included extensive testing of the App by various user groups. The App structure makes it simple and straightforward to transfer to coastal and inland flooded areas in other locations, requiring only the specification of BFEs and grade elevations.
Optimized Dislocation of Mobile Sensor Networks on Large Marine Environments Using Voronoi Partitions
Authors: D’Acunto Mario , Moroni Davide , Puntoni Alessandro , Salvetti Ovidio
Published: February 2020

The real-time environmental surveillance of large areas requires the ability to dislocate sensor networks. Generally, the probability of the occurrence of a pollution event depends on the burden of possible sources operating in the areas to be monitored. This implies a challenge for devising optimal real-time dislocation of wireless sensor networks. This challenge involves both hardware solutions and algorithms optimizing the displacements of mobile sensor networks in large areas with a vast number of sources of pollutant factors based mainly on diffusion mechanisms. In this paper, we present theoretical and simulated results inherent to a Voronoi partition approach for the optimized dislocation of a set of mobile wireless sensors with circular (radial) sensing power on large areas. The optimal deployment was found to be a variation of the generalized centroidal Voronoi configuration, where the Voronoi configuration is event-driven, and the centroid set of the corresponding generalized Voronoi cells changes as a function of the pollution event. The initial localization of the pollution events is simulated with a Poisson distribution. Our results could improve the possibility of reducing the costs for real-time surveillance of large areas, and other environmental monitoring when wireless sensor networks are involved.
Low Temperature Serpentinite Replacement by Carbonates during Seawater Influx in the Newfoundland Margin
Authors: Picazo Suzanne , Malvoisin Benjamin , Baumgartner Lukas , Bouvier Anne-Sophie
Published: February 2020

Serpentinite replacement by carbonates in the seafloor is one of the main carbonation processes in nature providing insights into the mechanisms of CO2 sequestration; however, the onset of this process and the conditions for the reaction to occur are not yet fully understood. Preserved serpentine rim with pseudomorphs of carbonate after serpentine and lobate-shaped carbonate grains are key structural features for replacement of serpentinite by carbonates. Cathodoluminescence microscopy reveals that Ca-rich carbonate precipitation in serpentinite is associated with a sequential assimilation of Mn. Homogeneous δ18O values at the µm-scale within grains and host sample indicate low formation temperature (<20 °C) from carbonation initiation, with a high fluid to rock ratio. δ13C (1–3 ± 1‰) sit within the measured values for hydrothermal systems (−3–3‰), with no systematic correlation with the Mn content. δ13C values reflect the inorganic carbon dominance and the seawater source of CO2 for carbonate. Thermodynamic modeling of fluid/rock interaction during seawater transport in serpentine predicts Ca-rich carbonate production, at the expense of serpentine, only at temperatures below 50 °C during seawater influx. Mg-rich carbonates can also be produced when using a model of fluid discharge, but at significantly higher temperatures (150 °C). This has major implications for the setting of carbonation in present-day and in fossil margins.
Liquid-Plasma Hydrogenated Synthesis of Gray Titania with Engineered Surface Defects and Superior Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Zhang Feng , Feng Guang , Hu Mengyun , Huang Yanwei , Zeng Heping
Published: February 2020

Defect engineering in photocatalysts recently exhibits promising performances in solar-energy-driven reactions. However, defect engineering techniques developed so far rely on complicated synthesis processes and harsh experimental conditions, which seriously hinder its practical applications. In this work, we demonstrated a facile mass-production approach to synthesize gray titania with engineered surface defects. This technique just requires a simple liquid-plasma treatment under low temperature and atmospheric pressure. The in situ generation of hydrogen atoms caused by liquid plasma is responsible for hydrogenation of TiO2. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) measurements confirm the existence of surface oxygen vacancies and Ti3+ species in gray TiO2−x. Both kinds of defects concentrations are well controllable and increase with the output plasma power. UV–Vis diffused reflectance spectra show that the bandgap of gray TiO2−x is 2.9 eV. Due to its extended visible-light absorption and engineered surface defects, gray TiO2−x exhibits superior visible-light photoactivity. Rhodamine B was used to evaluate the visible-light photodegradation performance, which shows that the removal rate constant of gray TiO2−x reaches 0.126 min−1 and is 6.5 times of P25 TiO2. The surface defects produced by liquid-plasma hydrogenation are proved stable in air and water and could be a candidate hydrogenation strategy for other photocatalysts.
RETRACTED: Nitrogen Doped Intercalation TiO2/TiN/Ti3C2Tx Nanocomposite Electrodes with Enhanced Pseudocapacitance
Authors: Yang Ben , She Yin , Zhang Changgeng , Kang Shuai , Zhou Jin , Hu Wei
Published: February 2020

Layered two-dimensional titanium carbide (Ti3C2Tx), as an outstanding MXene member, has captured increasing attention in supercapacitor applications due to its excellent chemical and physical properties. However, the low gravimetric capacitance of Ti3C2Tx restricts its rapid development in such applications. Herein, this work demonstrates an effective and facile hydrothermal approach to synthesize nitrogen doped intercalation TiO2/TiN/Ti3C2Tx with greatly improved gravimetric capacitance and excellent cycling stability. The hexamethylenetetramine (C6H12N4) in hydrothermal environment acted as the nitrogen source and intercalants, while the Ti3C2Tx itself was the titanium source of TiO2 and TiN. We tested the optimized nitrogen doped intercalation TiO2/TiN/Ti3C2Tx electrodes in H2SO4, Li2SO4, Na2SO4, LiOH and KOH electrolytes, respectively. The electrode in H2SO4 electrolyte delivered the best electrochemical performance with high gravimetric capacitance of 361 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 and excellent cycling stability of 85.8% after 10,000 charge/discharge cycles. A systematic study of material characterization combined with the electrochemical performances disclosed that TiO2/TiN nanoparticles, the introduction of nitrogen and the NH4+ intercalation efficaciously increased the specific surface areas, which is beneficial for facilitating electrolyte ions transportation. Given the excellent performance, nitrogen doped intercalation TiO2/TiN/Ti3C2Tx bodes well as a promising pseudocapacitor electrode for energy storage applications.
Deciphering the Roles of Interspace and Controlled Disorder in the Bactericidal Properties of Nanopatterns against Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Modaresifar Khashayar , Kunkels Lorenzo B. , Ganjian Mahya , Tümer Nazli , Hagen Cornelis W. , Otten Linda G. , Hagedoorn Peter-Leon , Angeloni Livia , Ghatkesar Murali K. , Fratila-Apachitei Lidy E. , Zadpoor Amir A.
Published: February 2020

Recent progress in nano-/micro-fabrication techniques has paved the way for the emergence of synthetic bactericidal patterned surfaces that are capable of killing the bacteria via mechanical mechanisms. Different design parameters are known to affect the bactericidal activity of nanopatterns. Evaluating the effects of each parameter, isolated from the others, requires systematic studies. Here, we systematically assessed the effects of the interspacing and disordered arrangement of nanopillars on the bactericidal properties of nanopatterned surfaces. Electron beam induced deposition (EBID) was used to additively manufacture nanopatterns with precisely controlled dimensions (i.e., a height of 190 nm, a diameter of 80 nm, and interspaces of 100, 170, 300, and 500 nm) as well as disordered versions of them. The killing efficiency of the nanopatterns against Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus bacteria increased by decreasing the interspace, achieving the highest efficiency of 62 ± 23% on the nanopatterns with 100 nm interspacing. By comparison, the disordered nanopatterns did not influence the killing efficiency significantly, as compared to their ordered correspondents. Direct penetration of nanopatterns into the bacterial cell wall was identified as the killing mechanism according to cross-sectional views, which is consistent with previous studies. The findings indicate that future studies aimed at optimizing the design of nanopatterns should focus on the interspacing as an important parameter affecting the bactericidal properties. In combination with controlled disorder, nanopatterns with contrary effects on bacterial and mammalian cells may be developed.
Ex Vivo Permeation of Carprofen Vehiculated by PLGA Nanoparticles through Porcine Mucous Membranes and Ophthalmic Tissues
Authors: Gómez-Segura Lídia , Parra Alexander , Calpena-Campmany Ana Cristina , Gimeno Álvaro , Gómez de Aranda Immaculada , Boix-Montañes Antonio
Published: February 2020

(1) Background: Carprofen (CP), 2-(6-chlorocarbazole) propionic acid, is used as an anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-pyretic agent and it belongs to the family of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). CP has some adverse reactions in systemic administration; for this reason, topical administration with CP nanoparticles (CP-NPs) can be an optimal alternative. The main objective of this work is the investigation of ex vivo permeation of CP through different types of porcine mucous membranes (buccal, sublingual and vaginal) and ophthalmic tissues (cornea, sclera and conjunctiva) to compare the influence of CP-NPs formulation over a CP solution (CP-Solution). (2) Methods: The ex vivo permeation profiles were evaluated using Franz diffusion cells. Furthermore, in vivo studies were performed to verify that the formulations did not affect the cell structure and to establish the amount retained (Qr) in the tissues. (3) Results: Permeation of CP-NPs is more effective in terms of drug retention in almost all tissues (with the exception of sclera and sublingual). In vivo studies show that neither of the two formulations affects tissue structure, so both formulations are safe. (4) Conclusions: It was concluded that CP-NPs may be a useful tool for the topical treatment of local inflammation in veterinary and human medicine.
Interfacial and Bulk Stabilization of Oil/Water System: A Novel Synergistic Approach
Authors: Shakeel Ahmad , Farooq Ujala , Chassagne Claire
Published: February 2020

Oil/water emulsions are usually stabilized either by interfacial modification using nanoparticles and surfactants (stated as pickering emulsion or bijels) or by bulk stabilization with the help of low-molecular-weight or polymeric gelators (known as bigels) in response to some external stimuli (e.g., pH, temperature). Both these approaches result in different systems that are quite useful for different applications, including catalysis, pharmaceutical and agrochemicals. However, these systems also possess some inherent drawbacks that need to be addressed, like difficulty in fabrication and ensuring the permanent binding of nanoparticles at the oil/water interface, in case of nanoparticles stabilized emulsions (i.e., interfacial stabilization). Similarly, the long-term stability of the oil/water systems produced by using (hydro/organo) gelators (i.e., bulk stabilization) is a major concern. Here, we show that the oil/water system with improved mechanical and structural properties can be prepared with the synergistic effect of interfacial and bulk stabilization. We achieve this by using nanoparticles to stabilize the oil/water interface and polymeric gelators to stabilize the bulk phases (oil and water). Furthermore, the proposed strategy is extremely adaptable, as the properties of the resultant system can be finely tuned by manipulating different parameters such as nanoparticles content and their surface functionalization, solvent type and its volume fraction, and type and amount of polymeric gelators.
A Novel Micronutrient Blend Mimics Calorie Restriction Transcriptomics in Multiple Tissues of Mice and Increases Lifespan and Mobility in C. elegans
Authors: Serna Eva , Mastaloudis Angela , Martorell Patricia , Wood Steven M. , Hester Shelly N. , Bartlett Mark , Prolla Tomas A. , Viña Jose
Published: February 2020

Background: We previously described a novel micronutrient blend that behaves like a putative calorie restriction mimetic. The aim of this paper was to analyze the beneficial effects of our micronutrient blend in mice and C. elegans, and compare them with calorie restriction. Methods: Whole transcriptomic analysis was performed in the brain cortex, skeletal muscle and heart in three groups of mice: old controls (30 months), old + calorie restriction and old + novel micronutrient blend. Longevity and vitality were tested in C. elegans. Results: The micronutrient blend elicited transcriptomic changes in a manner similar to those in the calorie-restricted group and different from those in the control group. Subgroup analysis revealed that nuclear hormone receptor, proteasome complex and angiotensinogen genes, all of which are known to be directly related to aging, were the most affected. Furthermore, a functional analysis in C. elegans was used. We found that feeding C. elegans the micronutrient blend increased longevity as well as vitality. Conclusions: We describe a micronutrient supplement that causes similar changes (transcriptomic and promoting longevity and vitality) as a calorie restriction in mice and C. elegans, respectively, but further studies are required to confirm these effects in humans.
Sanggenol L Induces Apoptosis and Cell Cycle Arrest via Activation of p53 and Suppression of PI3K/Akt/mTOR Signaling in Human Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Won Yeong-Seon , Seo Kwon-Il
Published: February 2020

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in Western countries. Recently, Asian countries are being affected by Western habits, which have had an important role in the rapid increase in cancer incidence. Sanggenol L (San L) is a natural flavonoid present in the root barks of Morus alba, which induces anti-cancer activities in ovarian cancer cells. However, the molecular and cellular mechanisms of the effects of sanggenol L on human prostate cancer cells have not been elucidated. In this study, we investigated whether sanggenol L exerts anti-cancer activity in human prostate cancer cells via apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. Sanggenol L induced caspase-dependent apoptosis (up-regulation of PARP and Bax or down-regulation of procaspase-3, -8, -9, Bid, and Bcl-2), induction of caspase-independent apoptosis (up-regulation of AIF and Endo G on cytosol), suppression of cell cycle (down-regulation of CDK1/2, CDK4, CDK6, cyclin D1, cyclin E, cyclin A, and cyclin B1 or up-regulation of p53 and p21), and inhibition of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling (down-regulation of PI3K, p-Akt, and p-mTOR) in prostate cancer cells. These results suggest the induction of apoptosis via suppression of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling and cell cycle arrest via activation of p53 in response to sanggenol L in prostate cancer cells.
An Acute, Placebo-Controlled, Single-Blind, Crossover, Dose-Response, Exploratory Study to Assess the Effects of New Zealand Pine Bark Extract (Enzogenol®) on Glycaemic Responses in Healthy Participants
Authors: Lim Wen Xin Janice , Chepulis Lynne , von Hurst Pamela , Gammon Cheryl S. , Page Rachel A.
Published: February 2020

An acute, placebo-controlled, single-blind, crossover, dose-response, exploratory study was designed to investigate the hypoglycaemic effects of New Zealand pine bark extract (Enzogenol®). Twenty-five healthy participants categorised into having a monophasic or complex (biphasic or triphasic) glucose curve shape at the control visit consumed a placebo and Enzogenol® (50 and 400 mg) on three separate occasions before an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). In the monophasic group, 50 and 400 mg of Enzogenol® significantly reduced the mean glucose incremental area under the curve (iAUC) compared to control 241.3 ± 20.2 vs. 335.4 ± 34.0 mmol/L·min, p = 0.034 and 249.3 ± 25.4 vs. 353.6 ± 31.5 mmol/L·min, p = 0.012, respectively. The 400 mg dose further reduced the percentage increment of postprandial glucose (%PG) 31.4% ± 7.9% vs. 47.5% ± 8.6%, p = 0.010, glucose peak 7.9 ± 0.3 vs. 8.9 ± 0.3 mmol/L, p = 0.025 and 2h-OGTT postprandial glucose (2hPG) 6.1 ± 0.3 vs. 6.7 ± 0.3 mmol/L, p = 0.027. Glucose iAUC was not significantly different in the complex group, except for reductions in %PG 28.7% ± 8.2% vs. 43.4% ± 5.9%, p = 0.012 after 50 mg dose and 27.7% ± 5.4% vs. 47.3% ± 7.2%, p = 0.025 after 400 mg dose. The results suggest that Enzogenol® may have hypoglycaemic effects in healthy participants, especially those exhibiting monophasic shapes.
Association between Timing of Energy Intake and Insulin Sensitivity: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Rangaraj Vittobai Rashika , Siddula Alankrita , Burgess Helen J. , Pannain Silvana , Knutson Kristen L.
Published: February 2020

In addition to the caloric and macronutrient composition of meals, timing of energy consumption may be important for optimal glucose metabolism. Our goal was to examine whether the habitual timing of energy intake was associated with insulin sensitivity in healthy volunteers. Volunteers without diabetes aged 21–50 years completed a 3-day food diary and underwent an oral glucose tolerance test to estimate insulin sensitivity (n = 44). From the food diary, we calculated the proportions of the total energy and macronutrients consumed in the morning and evening, and the clock time at which 25%, 50% and 75% of total energy was consumed. A greater proportion of energy intake in the morning was significantly associated with higher insulin sensitivity estimated by Matsuda Index (B = 2.8 per 10%; 95%CI: 0.3, 5.2). The time at which 25% of energy was consumed was associated with insulin sensitivity estimated by Matsuda Index (B = −1.6 per hour; 95%CI: −3.0, −0.3) and QUICKI (B = −1.4 per hour, 95%CI: −2.8, −0.1). The timing of carbohydrate consumption demonstrated similar associations. Greater energy intake earlier in the day was associated with higher insulin sensitivity in individuals without diabetes.
A Delayed Morning and Earlier Evening Time-Restricted Feeding Protocol for Improving Glycemic Control and Dietary Adherence in Men with Overweight/Obesity: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Parr Evelyn B. , Devlin Brooke L. , Radford Bridget E. , Hawley John A.
Published: February 2020

We determined the effects of time-restricted feeding (TRF; 8 h/d) versus extended feeding (EXF; 15 h/d) on 24-h and postprandial metabolism and subjective opinions of TRF in men with overweight/obesity. In a randomized crossover design, 11 sedentary males (age 38 ± 5 y; BMI: 32.2 ± 2.0 kg/m2) completed two isoenergetic diet protocols for 5 days, consuming meals at 1000, 1300 and 1700 h (TRF) or 0700, 1400 and 2100 h (EXF). On Day 5, participants remained in the laboratory for 24 h, and blood samples were collected at hourly (0700–2300 h) then 2-hourly (2300–0700 h) intervals for concentrations of glucose, insulin and appetite/incretin hormones. Structured qualitative interviews were conducted following completion of both dietary conditions and investigated thematically. Total 24-h area under the curve (AUCtotal) [glucose] tended to be lower for TRF versus EXF (−5.5 ± 9.0 mmol/L/h, p = 0.09). Nocturnal glucose AUC was lower in TRF (−4.2 ± 5.8 mmol/L/h, p = 0.04), with no difference in waking glucose AUC or AUCtotal for [insulin]. Attitudes towards TRF were positive with improved feelings of well-being. Barriers to TRF were work schedules, family commitments and social events. Compared to extended feeding, short-term TRF improved nocturnal glycemic control and was positively perceived in men with overweight/obesity.
Plasma Peptide Concentrations and Peptide-Reactive Immunoglobulins in Patients with Eating Disorders at Inclusion in the French EDILS Cohort (Eating Disorders Inventory and Longitudinal Survey)
Authors: Galmiche Marie , Lucas Nicolas , Déchelotte Pierre , Deroissart Camille , Le Solliec Marie-Anne , Rondeaux Julie , Azhar Saida , Grigioni Sébastien , Colange Guillaume , Delay Julie , Achamrah Najate , Folope Vanessa , Belmonte Liliana , Lamarre Adèle , Rimbert Agnès , Saillard Tiphaine , Petit André , Quillard Muriel , Coeffier Moise , Gillibert André , Lambert Grégory , Legrand Romain , Tavolacci Marie-Pierre
Published: February 2020

Eating disorders (EDs) are increasingly frequent. Their pathophysiology involves disturbance of peptide signaling and the microbiota–gut–brain axis. This study analyzed peptides and corresponding immunoglobulin (Ig) concentrations in groups of ED. In 120 patients with restrictive (R), bulimic (B), and compulsive (C) ED, the plasma concentrations of leptin, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), peptide YY (PYY), and insulin were analyzed by Milliplex and those of acyl ghrelin (AG), des-acyl ghrelin (DAG), and α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) by ELISA kits. Immunoglobulin G (in response to an antigen) concentrations were analyzed by ELISA, and their affinity for the respective peptide was measured by surface plasmon resonance. The concentrations of leptin, insulin, GLP-1, and PYY were higher in C patients than in R patients. On the contrary, α-MSH, DAG, and AG concentrations were higher in R than in C patients. After adjustment for body mass index (BMI), differences among peptide concentrations were no longer different. No difference in the concentrations of the IgG was found, but the IgG concentrations were correlated with each other. Although differences of peptide concentrations exist among ED subtypes, they may be due to differences in BMI. Changes in the concentration and/or affinity of several anti-peptide IgG may contribute to the physiopathology of ED or may be related to fat mass.
Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus Lacking the Leader Protein and Containing Two Negative DIVA Markers (FMDV LL3B3D A24) Is Highly Attenuated in Pigs
Authors: Eschbaumer Michael , Dill Veronika , Carlson Jolene C. , Arzt Jonathan , Stenfeldt Carolina , Krug Peter W. , Hardham John M. , Stegner Jacob E. , Rodriguez Luis L. , Rieder Elizabeth
Published: February 2020

Inactivated whole-virus vaccines are widely used for the control of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD). Their production requires the growth of large quantities of virulent FMD virus in biocontainment facilities, which is expensive and carries the risk of an inadvertent release of virus. Attenuated recombinant viruses lacking the leader protease coding region have been proposed as a safer alternative for the production of inactivated FMD vaccines (Uddowla et al., 2012, J Virol 86:11675-85). In addition to the leader deletion, the marker vaccine virus FMDV LL3BPVKV3DYR A24 encodes amino acid substitutions in the viral proteins 3B and 3D that allow the differentiation of infected from vaccinated animals and has been previously shown to be effective in cattle and pigs. In the present study, two groups of six pigs each were inoculated with live FMDV LL3BPVKV3DYR A24 virus either intradermally into the heel bulb (IDHB) or by intra-oropharyngeal (IOP) deposition. The animals were observed for 3 or 5 days after inoculation, respectively. Serum, oral and nasal swabs were collected daily and a thorough postmortem examination with tissue collection was performed at the end of the experiment. None of the animals had any signs of disease or virus shedding. Virus was reisolated from only one serum sample (IDHB group, sample taken on day 1) and one piece of heel bulb skin from the inoculation site of another animal (IDHB group, necropsy on day 3), confirming that FMDV LL3BPVKV3DYR A24 is highly attenuated in pigs.
Metabolic Changes of Mycobacterium tuberculosis during the Anti-Tuberculosis Therapy
Authors: Bespyatykh Julia , Shitikov Egor , Bespiatykh Dmitry , Guliaev Andrei , Klimina Ksenia , Veselovsky Vladimir , Arapidi Georgij , Dogonadze Marine , Zhuravlev Viacheslav , Ilina Elena , Govorun Vadim
Published: February 2020

Tuberculosis, caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex bacteria, remains one of the most pressing health problems. Despite the general trend towards reduction of the disease incidence rate, the situation remains extremely tense due to the distribution of the resistant forms. Most often, these strains emerge through the intra-host microevolution of the pathogen during treatment failure. In the present study, the focus was on three serial clinical isolates of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Beijing B0/W148 cluster from one patient with pulmonary tuberculosis, to evaluate their changes in metabolism during anti-tuberculosis therapy. Using whole genome sequencing (WGS), 9 polymorphisms were determined, which occurred in a stepwise or transient manner during treatment and were linked to the resistance (GyrA D94A; inhA t-8a) or virulence. The effect of the inhA t-8a mutation was confirmed on both proteomic and transcriptomic levels. Additionally, the amount of RpsL protein, which is a target of anti-tuberculosis drugs, was reduced. At the systemic level, profound changes in metabolism, linked to the evolution of the pathogen in the host and the effects of therapy, were documented. An overabundance of the FAS-II system proteins (HtdX, HtdY) and expression changes in the virulence factors have been observed at the RNA and protein levels.
The Burka Ban: Islamic Dress, Freedom and Choice in The Netherlands in Light of the 2019 Burka Ban Law
Authors: Hass Bat-sheva
Published: February 2020

This article, part of an evolving and large project, examines the relationship between clothing, freedom and choice, and specifically Islamic dress in shaping the identity of Dutch Muslim women after the Burka Ban that was voted into law on 1 August 2019 in the Netherlands. It discusses the debates before and after this date, as well as the background to the ban. A veil covering the face is a garment worn by some Muslim women to adhere to an interpretation of hijab (modest dress). It can be referred to as a burqa or niqab. In the aftermath of the Burka Ban that prompted considerable public alarm on the part of Muslim men and women, niqab-wearing women, as well as women who do not wear a veil, but are in solidarity with their niqabi sisters, raised a number of questions that form the basis for the analysis presented here: how do Dutch Muslim women shape their identity in a way that it is both Dutch and Muslim? Do they incorporate Dutch parameters into their Muslim identity, while at the same time weaving Islamic principles into their Dutch sense of self? The findings show how Islamic clothing can be mobilized by Dutch Muslim women to serve identity formation and personal (religious) choice in the Netherlands, where Islam is largely considered by the non-Muslim population to be a religion that is oppressive and discriminatory towards women. It is argued that in the context of being Dutch and Muslim, these women express their freedom of choice through clothing, thus pushing the limits of the archetypal Dutch identity and criticizing Dutch society while simultaneously stretching the meaning of Islam to craft their own identity.
Application of Diffusion Models in the Analysis of Financial Markets: Evidence on Exchange Traded Funds in Europe
Authors: Marszk Adam , Lechman Ewa
Published: February 2020

Exchange traded funds (ETFs) are financial innovations that may be considered as a part of the index financial instruments category, together with stock index derivatives. The aim of this paper is to explore the trajectories and formulates predictions regarding the spread of ETFs on the financial markets in six European countries. It demonstrates ETFs’ development trajectories with regard to stock index futures and options that may be considered as their substitutes, e.g., in risk management. In this paper, we use mathematical models of the diffusion of innovation that allow unveiling the evolutionary patterns of turnover of ETFs; the time span of the analysis is 2004–2015, i.e., the period of dynamic changes on the European ETF markets. Such an approach has so far rarely been applied in this field of research. Our findings indicate that the development of ETF markets has been strongest in Italy and France and weaker in the other countries, especially Poland and Hungary. The results highlight significant differences among European countries and prove that diffusion has not taken place in all the cases; there are also considerable differences in the predicted development paths.
Hazards That Can Affect CNC Machine Tools during Operation—An AHP Approach
Authors: Racz Sever-Gabriel , Breaz Radu-Eugen , Cioca Lucian-Ionel
Published: February 2020

CNC (computer numerically controlled) machine tools are highly advanced technological systems, used to machine parts by means of metal cutting processes. Their structure and kinematics are very complex, involving accurate coordinated motions on three to five axes. Operating CNC machine tools is a complicated process, which can easily be affected by errors. Nowadays, safety systems and devices are developed in order to make this process safer and more user friendly. Modern CNC controllers are designed to deal with obvious sources of hazards, such as overloads (by means of various sensor systems) and collisions (by checking the NC code syntax and simulating it on the machine). However, despite of these safety systems, various unwanted events still occur during machining operations on CNC machine tools. These means that there are still certain hazards, not so obvious, which can severely affect the operation of CNC machine tools. This work tries to identify and hierarchize the above-mentioned hazards by using an AHP (analytic hierarchy process) approach. The results of the AHP emphasize which hazard has the biggest influence upon the CNC machine tools operation and consequently should be avoided. The results of this work could be used by the machine tools designers to develop new safety features for the existing CNC controllers. Also, the users of the machine tools could focus some of the safety measures during the machining process upon the most significant hazards pointed by the results of the research.
Gravitoelectromagnetism, Solar System Tests, and Weak-Field Solutions in f (T,B) Gravity with Observational Constraints
Authors: Farrugia Gabriel , Said Jackson Levi , Finch Andrew
Published: February 2020

Gravitomagnetism characterizes phenomena in the weak-field limit within the context of rotating systems. These are mainly manifested in the geodetic and Lense-Thirring effects. The geodetic effect describes the precession of the spin of a gyroscope in orbit about a massive static central object, while the Lense-Thirring effect expresses the analogous effect for the precession of the orbit about a rotating source. In this work, we explore these effects in the framework of Teleparallel Gravity and investigate how these effects may impact recent and future missions. We find that teleparallel theories of gravity may have an important impact on these effects which may constrain potential models within these theories.
Late-Relapsing Hepatitis after Yellow Fever
Authors: Rezende Izabela Maurício , Pereira Leonardo Soares , Fradico Jordana Rodrigues Barbosa , Pascoal Xavier Marcelo Antônio , Alves Pedro Augusto , Campi-Azevedo Ana Carolina , Speziali Elaine , dos Santos Lívia Zignago Moreira , Albuquerque Natalia Soares , Penido Indiara , Santos Tayrine Araujo , Bom Ana Paula Dinis Ano , da Silva Andrea Marques Vieira , Fernandes Camilla Bayma , Calzavara Carlos Eduardo , Kroon Erna Geessien , Martins-Filho Olindo Assis , Teixeira-Carvalho Andréa , Drumond Betânia Paiva
Published: February 2020

One patient presented hyporexia, asthenia, adynamia, and jaundice two months after acute yellow fever (YF) onset; plus laboratory tests indicating hepatic cytolysis and a rebound of alanine and aspartate transaminases, and total and direct bilirubin levels. Laboratory tests discarded autoimmune hepatitis, inflammatory or metabolic liver disease, and new infections caused by hepatotropic agents. Anti-YFV IgM, IgG and neutralizing antibodies were detected in different times, but no viremia. A liver biopsy was collected three months after YF onset and tested positive for YFV antigens and wild-type YFV-RNA (364 RNA-copies/gram/liver). Transaminases and bilirubin levels remained elevated for five months, and the arresting of symptoms persisted for six months after the acute YF onset. Several serum chemokines, cytokines, and growth factors were measured. A similar immune response profile was observed in the earlier phases of the disease, followed by more pronounced changes in the later stages, when transaminases levels returned to normal. The results indicated viral persistence in the liver and continual liver cell damage three months after YF onset and reinforced the need for extended follow-ups of YF patients. Further studies to investigate the role of possible viral persistence and the immune response causing relapsing hepatitis following YF are also necessary.
The Major Capsid Protein, VP1, of the Mouse Polyomavirus Stimulates the Activity of Tubulin Acetyltransferase 1 by Microtubule Stabilization
Authors: Horníková Lenka , Bruštíková Kateřina , Ryabchenko Boris , Zhernov Ilia , Fraiberk Martin , Mariničová Zuzana , Lánský Zdeněk , Forstová Jitka
Published: February 2020

Viruses have evolved mechanisms to manipulate microtubules (MTs) for the efficient realization of their replication programs. Studying the mechanisms of replication of mouse polyomavirus (MPyV), we observed previously that in the late phase of infection, a considerable amount of the main structural protein, VP1, remains in the cytoplasm associated with hyperacetylated microtubules. VP1–microtubule interactions resulted in blocking the cell cycle in the G2/M phase. We are interested in the mechanism leading to microtubule hyperacetylation and stabilization and the roles of tubulin acetyltransferase 1 (αTAT1) and deacetylase histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) and VP1 in this mechanism. Therefore, HDAC6 inhibition assays, αTAT1 knock out cell infections, in situ cell fractionation, and confocal and TIRF microscopy were used. The experiments revealed that the direct interaction of isolated microtubules and VP1 results in MT stabilization and a restriction of their dynamics. VP1 leads to an increase in polymerized tubulin in cells, thus favoring αTAT1 activity. The acetylation status of MTs did not affect MPyV infection. However, the stabilization of MTs by VP1 in the late phase of infection may compensate for the previously described cytoskeleton destabilization by MPyV early gene products and is important for the observed inhibition of the G2→M transition of infected cells to prolong the S phase.
Addition of Partial Envelope Domain II into Envelope Domain III of Dengue Virus Antigen Potentiates the Induction of Virus-Neutralizing Antibodies and Induces Protective Immunity
Authors: Park Jisang , Lee Hyun-Young , Khai Ly Tuan , Thuy Nguyen Thi Thu , Mai Le Quynh , Jang Yong-Suk
Published: February 2020

Dengue virus (DENV) comprises four serotypes in the family Flaviviridae and is a causative agent of dengue-related diseases, including dengue fever. Dengue fever is generally a self-limited febrile illness. However, secondary infection of patients with a suboptimal antibody (Ab) response provokes life-threatening severe dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome. To develop a potent candidate subunit vaccine against DENV infection, we developed the EDII-cEDIII antigen, which contains partial envelope domain II (EDII) including the fusion loop and BC loop epitopes together with consensus envelope domain III (cEDIII) of all four serotypes of DENV. We purified Ab from mice after immunization with EDII-cEDIII or cEDIII and compared their virus neutralization and Ab-dependent enhancement of DENV infection. Anti-EDII-cEDIII Ab showed stronger neutralizing activity and lower Ab-dependent peak enhancement of DENV infection compared with anti-cEDIII Ab. Following injection of Ab-treated DENV into AG129 mice, anti-EDII-cEDIII Ab ameliorated DENV infection in tissues with primary and secondary infection more effectively than anti-cEDIII Ab. In addition, anti-EDII-cEDIII Ab protected against DENV1, 2, and 4 challenge. We conclude that EDII-cEDIII induces neutralizing and protective Abs, and thus, shows promise as a candidate subunit vaccine for DENV infection.
ANALISA QUALITY OF SERVICES (QoS) VOICE OVER INTERNET PROTOCOL (VoIP) DENGAN PROTOKOL H.323 DAN SESSION INITIAL PROTOCOL (SIP)
Authors: Setiawan Eko Budi
Published: February 2020

Teknologi Voice over Internet Procotol (VoIP) tentu sangat menguntungkan bagi masyarakat luas karena dengan adanya VoIP maka sarana untuk melakukan komunikasi dari segi biaya yang dikeluarkan akan menjadi lebih sedikit apabila dibandingkan dengan media telepon konvensional biasa. Protokol H.323 dan Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) merupakan protokol yang dapat digunakan untuk membangun VoIP. Baik protokol H.323 dan SIP metodenya berbeda satu sama lain, sehingga tentunya perlu dilakukan suatu pengujian dan analisis untuk mengetahui kualitas yang dihasilkan dari VoIP dengan menggunakan kedua protokol tersebut. Parameter Quality of Service (QoS) yang digunakan untuk mengamati kualitas dari VoIP tersebut adalah delay, jitter, packet loss, serta Mean Opinion Score (MOS) yang diujikan pada 5 audience.Pengukuran QoS tersebut mengunakan tools VoIP Quality Monitoring VQManager yang dilakukan pada bandwidth sebesar 512 Kbps, 256 Kbps, 128 Kbps, dan 64 Kbps dengan Audio Codec G.711. Dari hasil pengujian yang dilakukan dengan skema percobaan yang sama, secara umum nilai dari parameter QoS yang didapat ketika menggunakan protokol H.323 bisa dikatakan lebih baik bila dibandingkan dengan protokol SIP. Kata Kunci :
PEMBANGUNAN SISTEM INFORMASI PENGISIAN SURVEY EVALUASI PERKULIAHAN ONLINE DI UNIVERSITAS KOMPUTER INDONESIA
Authors: Heryandi Andri
Published: February 2020

Penjaminan mutu merupakan suatu hal yang penting dilakukan pada suatu perguruan tinggi. Universitas Komputer Indonesia (UNIKOM) telah beberapa tahun melakukan proses penjaminan mutu yang salah satunya menggunakan instrument berupa kuesioner. Kuesioner ini digunakan untuk mengevaluasi proses perkuliahan yang telah berlangsung. Setiap mahasiswa mengisi kuesioner berdasarkan matakuliah-matakuliah yang diambil ketika perwalian. Data kuesioner yang telah diisi mahasiswa kemudian dapat diakses melalui Sistem Informasi Evaluasi Perkuliahan (SIMEP). Tetapi sistem yang berjalan sekarang mempunyai kelemahan yaitu cara pengisian kuesioner yang manual. Kelemahan tersebut mengakibatkan lamanya proses pemasukkan data dan kekurangakuratan data yang diinputkan. Oleh karena itu dibangun suatu sistem untuk melakukan pengisian kuesioner secara online. Dengan adanya sistem ini, diharapkan pengisian kuesioner dapat dilakukan dengan lebih cepat dan akurat. Sistem ini dibangun berbasis web dan menjadi bagian dari sistem perwalian online.