bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Exercise Workload Progression Across 36 Sessions of Cardiac Rehabilitation on Functional Capacity
Authors: Haeny Truman , Nelson Rachael , Ducharme Jeremy , Zuhl Micah
Published: September 2019

Defining time frames throughout cardiac rehabilitation (CR) to progress exercise workloads may lead to improve functional capacity outcomes. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of exercise progression on functional capacity among cardiac patients enrolled in CR. This was a retrospective database analysis study. Extracted data included: Demographic, functional capacity (in METs), and exercise intensity during exercise sessions 2, 12, 24, and 36 of CR from 150 patients who completed a 36-session program. Progression of exercise was determined by calculating percent change in treadmill exercise workload within predefined time frames of CR. The time frames were percent change from exercise session 2 to 12 (“%ΔS2–S12), 12 to 24 (%ΔS12–S24), and 24 to 36 (%ΔS24–S36). A multiple linear regression model was developed to predict change in functional capacity (ΔMETs). A significant proportion (21%) of total variation in ΔMETs was predicted by %ΔS2–12, %ΔS12–24, %ΔS24–36, age, sex, and body mass index (BMI). Percent changes between sessions 12 to 24 (%ΔS12–24; β = 0.17, p = 0.03) and 24 to 36 (%ΔS24–36; β = 0.23, p < 0.01) were significant predictors. Progressing patients between sessions 12 to 24 and 24 to 36 predicted significant changes in functional capacity and reinforced the importance of exercise progression across all 36 sessions of CR.
Poor Control of Blood Glucose, Lifestyle, and Cardiometabolic Parameters in Younger Adult Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Nam Ga Eun , Han Byoungduck , Joo Chae Lin , Kang Seo Young , Lim Jisun , Kim Yang-Hyun , Park Hye Soon
Published: September 2019

This study investigated the awareness, treatment, and control of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), lifestyle factors, and cardiometabolic parameters according to age groups among patients with T2DM. Data of 1507 patients with T2DM aged ≥35 years in the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey VI (2013–2015) were analyzed. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to compare the awareness, treatment, and control rate of T2DM and lifestyle and cardiometabolic parameters according to age groups. The adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for lack of awareness about and non-treatment of T2DM, as well as poor glycemic control, were significantly increased with younger age in both men and women. ORs for heavy drinkers and current smokers also significantly increased with younger age in both men and women. The adjusted ORs for high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (≥100 mg/dL), hypertriglyceridemia (≥150 mg/dL), and obesity significantly increased with younger age in men, but not in women. Among Korean adults with T2DM, awareness, treatment, and control rates of the condition were poorer in younger patients than in older patients. Education regarding the control of glycemia, cardiovascular risk factors, and improvement of lifestyles should be reinforced among younger-aged adults for the long-term management of T2DM.
Genetic Variants of lncRNA MALAT1 Exert Diverse Impacts on the Risk and Clinicopathologic Characteristics of Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Yuan Lan-Ting , Chang Jer-Hwa , Lee Hsiang-Lin , Yang Yi-Chieh , Su Shih-Chi , Lin Chien-Liang , Yang Shun-Fa , Chien Ming-Hsien
Published: September 2019

The long noncoding (lnc)RNA, metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1), plays a crucial role in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, potential genetic variants (single nucleotide polymorphisms, SNPs) in MALAT1 that affect the susceptibility and progression of HCC have rarely been explored. Three tagging SNPs, viz., rs3200401 C > T, rs619586 A > G, and rs1194338 C > A, in MALAT1 were genotyped by a TaqMan allelic discrimination assay in 394 HCC patients and 1199 healthy controls. A stratified analysis showed that younger patients (<55 years) with the MALAT1 rs619586 G allele had a decreased risk of HCC under a codominant model (AOR = 0.289, 95% CI: 0.108–0.773, p = 0.013) and dominant model (AOR = 0.286, 95% CI: 0.107–0.765, p = 0.013). Female patients and patients with a smoking habit who carried the CA + AA genotype of rs1194338 had a lower risk of developing vascular invasion (p = 0.049) and a high Child–Pugh grade (B or C) (p = 0.036), respectively. Under the dominant model, smokers with the MALAT1 rs3200401 CT + TT genotype had a higher frequency of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection (p = 0.034). Moreover, the aspartate aminotransferase was higher in patients with the rs3200401 CT + TT genotype. Furthermore, analyses of clinical datasets revealed that MALAT1 expression level was gradually unregulated during HCC development from normal liver, cirrhotic liver, dysplastic liver to HCC and correlated with poor survival rates in HCC patients, especially in the hepatitis virus-infected population.
Early Nuclear Events after Herpesviral Infection
Authors: Full Florian , Ensser Armin
Published: September 2019

Herpesviruses are important pathogens that can cause significant morbidity and mortality in the human population. Herpesviruses have a double-stranded DNA genome, and viral genome replication takes place inside the nucleus. Upon entering the nucleus, herpesviruses have to overcome the obstacle of cellular proteins in order to enable viral gene expression and genome replication. In this review, we want to highlight cellular proteins that sense incoming viral genomes of the DNA-damage repair (DDR) pathway and of PML-nuclear bodies (PML-NBs) that all can act as antiviral restriction factors within the first hours after the viral genome is released into the nucleus. We show the function and significance of both nuclear DNA sensors, the DDR and PML-NBs, and demonstrate for three human herpesviruses of the alpha-, beta- and gamma-subfamilies, HSV-1, HCMV and KSHV respectively, how viral tegument proteins antagonize these pathways.
Finite Element Modeling and Mechanical Testing of Metal Composites Made by Composite Metal Foil Manufacturing
Authors: Butt Javaid , Ghorabian Mohammad , Mohaghegh Vahaj , Shirvani Hassan
Published: September 2019

Foils of aluminum 1050 H14 ½ hard temper and 99.9% copper with 500-micron thickness have been used to manufacture similar and dissimilar composites by composite metal foil manufacturing (CMFM). The metal foils are bonded to each other using a special 80% zinc and 20% aluminum by weight brazing paste. A 3D finite element model has been developed to numerically analyze the time required to heat the metal foils so that a strong bond can be developed by the paste. The numerical simulations run in ANSYS 19.1 have been validated through experiments and rectangular layered composite products have been developed for flexural testing. The flexural test results for layered Al and Al/Cu composites are compared with solid samples of Al 1050 and 99.9% pure copper made by subtractive method. The results show that the layered Al composite is 5.2% stronger whereas the Al/Cu sample is 11.5% stronger in resisting bending loads compared to a solid Al 1050 sample. A higher bend load indicates the presence of a strong intermetallic bond created by the brazing paste between the metal foils. Corrosion testing was also carried out on the composite samples to assess the effect of corrosion on flexural strength. The tests revealed that the composites made by CMFM are not affected by galvanic corrosion after 7 days of testing and the flexural loads remained consistent with composites that were not immersed in a solution of distilled water and NaCl.
Coral Resilience at Malauka`a Fringing Reef, Kāneʻohe Bay, Oʻahu after 18 years
Authors: Barnhill Kelsey A. , Bahr Keisha D.
Published: September 2019

Globally, coral reefs are under threat from climate change and increasingly frequent bleaching events. However, corals in Kāneʻohe Bay, Hawaiʻi have demonstrated the ability to acclimatize and resist increasing temperatures. Benthic cover (i.e., coral, algae, other) was compared over an 18 year period (2000 vs. 2018) to estimate species composition changes. Despite a climate change induced 0.96 °C temperature increase and two major bleaching events within the 18-year period, the fringing reef saw no significant change in total coral cover (%) or relative coral species composition in the two dominant reef-building corals, Porites compressa and Montipora capitata. However, the loss of two coral species (Pocillopora meandrina and Porites lobata) and the addition of one new coral species (Leptastrea purpurea) between surveys indicates that while the fringing reef remains intact, a shift in species composition has occurred. While total non-coral substrate cover (%) increased from 2000 to 2018, two species of algae (Gracilaria salicornia and Kappaphycus alvarezii) present in the original survey were absent in 2018. The previously dominant algae Dictyosphaeria spp. significantly decreased in percent cover between surveys. The survival of the studied fringing reef indicates resilience and suggests these Hawaiian corals are capable of acclimatization to climate change and bleaching events.
Load Transfer of Offshore Open-Ended Pipe Piles Considering the Effect of Soil Plugging
Authors: Liu Junwei , Guo Zhen , Han Bo
Published: September 2019

Open-ended pipe piles have been increasingly used as the foundations for offshore structures. Considering the soil plugging effect, a novel analytical model is proposed in this paper to study the load transfer mechanism of open-ended pipe piles. A trilinear model for the external shaft friction was introduced, while a rigid plastic model was adopted to describe the load transfer at the pile-plug interface. Furthermore, an equilibrium equation of the soil plug was proposed, based on the hypothesis of a trilinear distribution of lateral earth pressure. The pile end resistance was analyzed by dividing it into two parts, i.e., the soil plug and pile annulus, the behaviors of which were described by the double broken line model. A calculation example was carried out to analyze the load transfer properties of the open-ended pipe piles. As a validation, similar load transfer processes of the open-ended pile were also captured in a newly built discrete element method model, mimicking the 100g centrifuge testing conditions.
An Integrated Web-Based System for the Monitoring and Forecasting of Coastal Harmful Algae Blooms: Application to Shenzhen City, China
Authors: Tian Yong , Huang Mutao
Published: September 2019

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) cause environmental problems worldwide. Continuous monitoring and forecasting of harmful algal blooms are necessary for marine resources managers to detect the intensity and spatial extent of HABs and provide early warnings to the public. In this study, we introduce an integrated web-based system for the monitoring and forecasting of coastal HABs. The system is named the Harmful Algal Blooms Monitoring and Forecasting System (HMFS). HMFS integrates in situ observations, a remote-sensing-based model, hydrodynamic and water quality model and Web-Based Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques into one environment. The in situ sensors and remote sensing model provide automatic and continuous monitoring of the coastal water conditions. The numerical models provide short-term prediction and early warning of HAB of up to 5 days. The overall forecast accuracy is more than or equal to 50% for the major coastal areas of Shenzhen in 2018. By leveraging a web-based GIS technique and Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA), the web portal of HMFS provides a graphic interface for users and mangers to view real-time in situ measurements and remote sensing maps, explore numerical model forecasts and get early warning information. HMFS was applied to Shenzhen, which is a rising megacity in Southern China. The application study demonstrated the applicability and effectiveness of HMFS for monitoring and predicting HABs.
Education and Input as Predictors of Second Language Attainment in Naturalistic Contexts
Authors: Janko Eleni , Dąbrowska Ewa , Street James A.
Published: September 2019

This study examines the effects of education and input as predictors of adult second language acquisition in naturalistic contexts. L1 Albanian learners of Greek who differed in amount of schooling (from 4 to 16 years) and length of residence (from 8 to 27 years) completed elicitation tasks that tested mastery of gender and number agreement, and past tense morphology. In addition, samples of spontaneous speech were assessed for fluency, grammatical complexity, and lexical richness in order to establish the learners’ overall proficiency in the L2. We hypothesized that education would facilitate attention to form and hence lead to better attainment of grammatical distinctions with relatively low functional load, particularly when these are complex. Quantity of input would be most strongly associated with aspects of language that are most relevant to communication, and in particular, fluency. These predictions were largely confirmed: education accounted for 15% of the variance on adjective number agreement and between 31% and 38% of the variance in performance on past tense morphology, which is considerably more complex. Fluency and clausal density, in contrast, were associated with length of residence but not with education.
Nanosilicon-Based Composites for (Bio)sensing Applications: Current Status, Advantages, and Perspectives
Authors: Myndrul Valerii , Iatsunskyi Igor
Published: September 2019

This review highlights the application of different types of nanosilicon (nano-Si) materials and nano-Si-based composites for (bio)sensing applications. Different detection approaches and (bio)functionalization protocols were found for certain types of transducers suitable for the detection of biological compounds and gas molecules. The importance of the immobilization process that is responsible for biosensor performance (biomolecule adsorption, surface properties, surface functionalization, etc.) along with the interaction mechanism between biomolecules and nano-Si are disclosed. Current trends in the fabrication of nano-Si-based composites, basic gas detection mechanisms, and the advantages of nano-Si/metal nanoparticles for surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS)-based detection are proposed.
Evaluate the Fatigue Life of CFRC Subjected to Coupled Thermo–Mechanical Loading
Authors: Ye Junjie , He Wangpeng , Shi Yang , Wang Yiwei , Cai Gaigai , Zhai Zhi , Chen Xuefeng
Published: September 2019

Mechanical properties of composites manufactured by high-temperature polymer polyether ether ketone (PEEK) with continuous reinforced fibers are closely dependent on ambient temperature variations. In order to effectively study fatigue failure behaviors of composites under the coupled thermo–mechanical loading, a well-established microscopic model based on a representative volume element (RVE) is proposed in this paper. Stiffness degradation behaviors of the composite laminates at room and elevated temperatures are firstly investigated, and their failure strengths are compared with experimental data. To describe the fatigue behaviors of composites with respect to complex external loading and ambient temperature variations, a new fatigue equation is proposed. A good consistency between theoretical results and experimental data was found in the cases. On this basis, the temperature cycling effects on the service life of composites are also discussed. Microscopic stress distributions of the RVE are also discussed to reveal their fatigue failure mechanisms.
Digital Light Processing of Freeze-cast Ceramic Layers for Macroporous Calcium Phosphate Scaffolds with Tailored Microporous Frameworks
Authors: Kim Jong-Woo , Lee Jung-Bin , Koh Young-Hag , Kim Hyoun-Ee
Published: September 2019

The objective of the present study is to demonstrate the versatility of the digital light processing (DLP) technique particularly when using a freeze-cast ceramic layer as the feedstock, which can manufacture porous calcium phosphate (CaP) scaffolds with arbitrarily designed macroporous structures with tailored microporous frameworks specially designed for bone scaffold applications. For this goal, we employed camphene-camphor as the freezing vehicle and porogen for the preparation of photocurable CaP suspensions containing diurethane dimethacrylate (UDMA) monomers. After freeze-casting, the CaP suspensions could be solidified at controlled temperatures (~33–38 °C) and then be photopolymerized by DLP. All produced CaP scaffolds fairly resembled the designed macroporous structures (the gyroid structure with two interpenetrating macropore networks). In addition, numerous micropores were created in the CaP filaments, while the microporosity increased with increasing the camphene-camphor amount from 40 vol % to 60 vol %. As a consequence, compressive strength and modulus of hierarchically porous CaP scaffolds decreased due to an increase in overall porosity. However, reasonable mechanical properties could be obtained at high porosities owing to the CaP frameworks constructed in a periodic manner. In addition, excellent water penetration capability, biocompatibility, and apatite-forming ability were obtained, which were attributed to the microporous CaP frameworks with good pore interconnectivity and large surface area.
TiO2–SrTiO3 Biphase Nanoceramics as Advanced Thermoelectric Materials
Authors: Zavjalov Alexey , Tikhonov Sergey , Kosyanov Denis
Published: September 2019

The review embraces a number of research papers concerning the fabrication of oxide thermoelectric systems, with TiO2−SrTiO3 biphase ceramics being emphasized. The ceramics is particularly known for a two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) forming spontaneously on the TiO2/SrTiO3 heterointerface (modulation doping), unlike ordinary 2DEG occurrence on specially fabricated thin film. Such effect is provided by the SrTiO3 conduction band edge being 0.40 and 0.20 eV higher than that for anatase and rutile TiO2, respectively. That is why, in the case of a checkered arrangement of TiO2 and SrTiO3 grains, the united 2D net is probably formed along the grain boundaries with 2DEG occurring there. To reach such conditions, there should be applied novelties in the field of ceramics materials science, because it is important to obtain highly dense material preserving small (nanoscale) grain size and thin interface boundary. The review also discusses some aspects of reactive spark plasma sintering as a promising method of preparing perovskite-oxide TiO2−SrTiO3 thermoelectric materials for high-temperature applications.
Socket Preservation Using a (Dense) PTFE Barrier with or without Xenograft Material: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: de Carvalho Formiga Márcio , Dayube Ulisses Ribeiro Campos , Chiapetti Cristiane Kern , de Rossi Figueiredo Daniela , Shibli Jamil Awad
Published: September 2019

When alveolar preservation procedures are not performed after tooth extraction, aesthetic and functional impairment could occur. Guided bone regeneration using polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) membranes has proven to be a simple alternative treatment that results in good maintenance of the alveolar bone for mediate/late implant placement. Therefore, this study compared the effect of alveolar preservation with the use of dense PTFE membranes, with and without xenograft material by Computerized tomography-based body composition (CTBC) analysis, after four months of the socket preservation procedure. A total of 29 teeth indicated for extraction. In the test group, the sockets were filled with bone graft biomaterial and subsequently coated with a dense PTFE membrane. In the control group, the sockets were filled with the blood clots and subsequently coated with a dense PTFE membrane. The results we found on the changes of the bone width and height after the procedures were: buccal plate: control group 0.46 mm, test group 0.91 mm; alveolar height: control group −0.41 mm, test group 0.35 mm; cervical third: control group −0.89 mm, test group −0.11 mm; middle third: control group −0.64, test group −0.50; and apical third: control group 0.09 mm, test group −0.14 mm. The use of a xenograft in conjunction with d-PTFE membranes proved to be superior to the use of the same membrane and blood clot only in regions of the crest, middle third, and alveolar height.
Modeling of High-Tc Superconducting Bulk using Different Jc–T Relationships over Dynamic Permanent Magnet Guideway
Authors: Hong Ye , Zheng Jun , Liao Hengpei
Published: September 2019

The linear temperature dependence of critical current density Jc∝((Tc-T)/(Tc-T0)) and the nonlinear functions of Jc∝(1-(T/Tc)2)α with the exponent α equal to 1, 3/2, and 2 are used to calculate the dynamic levitation force, the temperature distribution, and the current density distribution of the high-temperature superconducting (HTS) YBaCuO bulk over a permanent magnetic guideway (PMG). The calculations were based on the H-formulation and E–J power law. The model of the HTS bulk and the PMG has been built as a geometric entity by finite element software. To simulate the magnetic field fluctuation caused by the PMG arrangement irregularity, a small amplitude vibration in the vertical direction is applied to the PMG during the calculations. Both the low vibration frequency of 2 Hz and the high vibration frequency of 60 Hz are analyzed as the representative converted linear speeds of 34 km/h and 1018 km/h for magnetic levitation (Maglev) application. We compared the electromagnetic-thermo-force modeling with the experiments and the previous model without considering the thermal effect. The levitation force computed by the Jc–T relationship, in which Jc is proportional to (1-(T/Tc)2)2, is found to be in best agreement with the experimental data under quasi-static conditions. This work can provide a reference for the HTS electromagnetic-thermal-force coupling reproduction method of HTS Maglev at high speed.
Thermal Effects in the Ablation of Bovine Cortical Bone with Pulsed Laser Sources
Authors: Canteli David , Muñoz-García Cristina , Morales Miguel , Márquez Andrés , Lauzurica Sara , Arregui Juan , Lazkoz Aritz , Molpeceres Carlos
Published: September 2019

Lasers have advantages as bone surgical tools over mechanical methods, but two goals should be achieved to assure its use: Similar ablation rates to those obtained with mechanical tools (1 mm3/s at least) and to avoid thermal damage, a condition that can prevent proper bone healing. We present results of cow femoral bone with a 355 nm nanosecond (ns) and a 1064 nm picosecond (ps) pulsed laser sources that allow us to discuss the influence on the process of pulse duration and the selective ablation through high energy absorption (as bone highly absorbs 355 nm radiation). The treated samples were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Raman spectroscopy. The evaluation of the thermal effects produced in the samples shows clear differences between both laser sources: On one hand, the ns laser allows reaching high ablation rates (around 1 mm3/s); Raman spectra show no signal of bone carbonization, but unavoidable thermal effects in the form of melted and solidified material have been observed by electron microscopy in the samples treated with this laser. On the other hand, ablation without any sign of thermal effects is obtained using the ps laser, but with lower ablation rates, (around 0.15 mm3/s).
On Locally and Globally Optimal Solutions in Scalar Variational Control Problems
Authors: Treanţă Savin
Published: September 2019

In this paper, optimality conditions are studied for a new class of PDE and PDI-constrained scalar variational control problems governed by path-independent curvilinear integral functionals. More precisely, we formulate and prove a minimal criterion for a local optimal solution of the considered PDE and PDI-constrained variational control problem to be its global optimal solution. The effectiveness of the main result is validated by a two-dimensional non-convex scalar variational control problem.
On Fractional Operators and Their Classifications
Authors: Baleanu Dumitru , Fernandez Arran
Published: September 2019

Fractional calculus dates its inception to a correspondence between Leibniz and L’Hopital in 1695, when Leibniz described “paradoxes” and predicted that “one day useful consequences will be drawn” from them. In today’s world, the study of non-integer orders of differentiation has become a thriving field of research, not only in mathematics but also in other parts of science such as physics, biology, and engineering: many of the “useful consequences” predicted by Leibniz have been discovered. However, the field has grown so far that researchers cannot yet agree on what a “fractional derivative” can be. In this manuscript, we suggest and justify the idea of classification of fractional calculus into distinct classes of operators.
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) Outbreaks in West Java Indonesia 2015–2016: Clinical Manifestation and Associated Risk Factors
Authors: Karo-karo Desniwaty , Diyantoro  , Pribadi Eko Sugeng , Sudirman Fransiscus Xaverius , Kurniasih Sussi Widi , Sukirman  , Indasari Iin , Muljono David Handojo , Koch Guus , Stegeman Jan Arend
Published: September 2019

Knowledge of outbreaks and associated risk factors is helpful to improve control of the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) virus (HPAI) in Indonesia. This study was conducted to detect outbreaks of HPAI H5N1 in endemically infected regions by enhanced passive surveillance, to describe the clinical manifestation of these outbreaks and identify associated risk factors. From November 2015 to November 2016, HPAI outbreak investigations were conducted in seven districts of West Java. In total 64 outbreaks were confirmed out of 75 reported suspicions and outbreak characteristics were recorded. The highest mortality was reported in backyard chickens (average 59%, CI95%: 49–69%). Dermal apoptosis and lesions (64%, CI95%: 52–76%) and respiratory signs (39%, CI95%: 27–51%) were the clinical signs observed overall most frequently, while neurological signs were most frequently observed in ducks (68%, CI95%: 47–90%). In comparison with 60 non-infected control farms, the rate of visitor contacts onto a farm was associated with the odds of HPAI infection. Moreover, duck farms had higher odds of being infected than backyard farms, and larger farms had lower odds than small farms. Results indicate that better external biosecurity is needed to reduce transmission of HPAI A(H5N1) in Indonesia.
Maize Inoculation with Microbial Consortia: Contrasting Effects on Rhizosphere Activities, Nutrient Acquisition and Early Growth in Different Soils
Authors: Bradáčová Klára , Sittinger Maximilian , Tietz Katharina , Neuhäuser Benjamin , Kandeler Ellen , Berger Nils , Ludewig Uwe , Neumann Günter
Published: September 2019

The benefit of plant growth-promoting microorganisms (PGPMs) as plant inoculants is influenced by a wide range of environmental factors. Therefore, microbial consortia products (MCPs) based on multiple PGPM strains with complementary functions, have been proposed as superior, particularly under challenging environmental conditions and for restoration of beneficial microbial communities in disturbed soil environments. To test this hypothesis, the performance of a commercial MCP inoculant based on 22 PGPM strains was investigated in greenhouse experiments with maize on three soils with contrasting pH, organic matter content and microbial activity, under different P and N fertilization regimes. Interestingly, the MCP inoculant stimulated root and shoot growth and improved the acquisition of macronutrients only on a freshly collected field soil with high organic matter content, exclusively in combination with stabilized ammonium fertilization. This was associated with transiently increased expression of AuxIAA5 in the root tissue, a gene responsive to exogenous auxin supply, suggesting root growth promotion by microbial auxin production as a major mode of action of the MCP inoculant. High microbial activity was indicated by intense expression of soil enzyme activities involved in C, N and P cycling in the rhizosphere (cellulase, leucine peptidase, alkaline and acid phosphatases) but without MCP effects. By contrast, the MCP inoculation did not affect maize biomass production or nutrient acquisition on soils with very little Corg and low microbial activity, although moderate stimulation of rhizosphere enzymes involved in N and P cycling was recorded. There was also no indication for MCP-induced solubilization of Ca-phosphates on a calcareous sub-soil fertilized with rock-phosphate. The results demonstrate that the combination of multiple PGPM strains with complementary properties as MCP inoculants does not necessarily translate into plant benefits in challenging environments. Thus, a better understanding of the conditions determining successful MCP application is mandatory.
Influenza A Virus Detected in Native Bivalves in Waterfowl Habitat of the Delmarva Peninsula, USA
Authors: Densmore Christine L. , Iwanowicz Deborah D. , McLaughlin Shawn M. , Ottinger Christopher A. , Spires Jason E. , Iwanowicz Luke R.
Published: September 2019

We evaluated the prevalence of influenza A virus (IAV) in different species of bivalves inhabiting natural water bodies in waterfowl habitat along the Delmarva Peninsula and Chesapeake Bay in eastern Maryland. Bivalve tissue from clam and mussel specimens (Macoma balthica, Macoma phenax, Mulinia sp., Rangia cuneata, Mya arenaria, Guekensia demissa, and an undetermined mussel species) from five collection sites was analyzed for the presence of type A influenza virus by qPCR targeting the matrix gene. Of the 300 tissue samples analyzed, 13 samples (4.3%) tested positive for presence of influenza virus A matrix gene. To our knowledge, this is the first report of detection of IAV in the tissue of any bivalve mollusk from a natural water body.
The Intestine of Drosophila melanogaster: An Emerging Versatile Model System to Study Intestinal Epithelial Homeostasis and Host-Microbial Interactions in Humans
Authors: Capo Florence , Wilson Alexa , Di Cara Francesca
Published: September 2019

In all metazoans, the intestinal tract is an essential organ to integrate nutritional signaling, hormonal cues and immunometabolic networks. The dysregulation of intestinal epithelium functions can impact organism physiology and, in humans, leads to devastating and complex diseases, such as inflammatory bowel diseases, intestinal cancers, and obesity. Two decades ago, the discovery of an immune response in the intestine of the genetic model system, Drosophila melanogaster, sparked interest in using this model organism to dissect the mechanisms that govern gut (patho) physiology in humans. In 2007, the finding of the intestinal stem cell lineage, followed by the development of tools available for its manipulation in vivo, helped to elucidate the structural organization and functions of the fly intestine and its similarity with mammalian gastrointestinal systems. To date, studies of the Drosophila gut have already helped to shed light on a broad range of biological questions regarding stem cells and their niches, interorgan communication, immunity and immunometabolism, making the Drosophila a promising model organism for human enteric studies. This review summarizes our current knowledge of the structure and functions of the Drosophila melanogaster intestine, asserting its validity as an emerging model system to study gut physiology, regeneration, immune defenses and host-microbiota interactions.
Carnitine Inborn Errors of Metabolism
Authors: Almannai Mohammed , Alfadhel Majid , El-Hattab Ayman W.
Published: September 2019

Carnitine plays essential roles in intermediary metabolism. In non-vegetarians, most of carnitine sources (~75%) are obtained from diet whereas endogenous synthesis accounts for around 25%. Renal carnitine reabsorption along with dietary intake and endogenous production maintain carnitine homeostasis. The precursors for carnitine biosynthesis are lysine and methionine. The biosynthetic pathway involves four enzymes: 6-N-trimethyllysine dioxygenase (TMLD), 3-hydroxy-6-N-trimethyllysine aldolase (HTMLA), 4-N-trimethylaminobutyraldehyde dehydrogenase (TMABADH), and γ-butyrobetaine dioxygenase (BBD). OCTN2 (organic cation/carnitine transporter novel type 2) transports carnitine into the cells. One of the major functions of carnitine is shuttling long-chain fatty acids across the mitochondrial membrane from the cytosol into the mitochondrial matrix for β-oxidation. This transport is achieved by mitochondrial carnitine–acylcarnitine cycle, which consists of three enzymes: carnitine palmitoyltransferase I (CPT I), carnitine-acylcarnitine translocase (CACT), and carnitine palmitoyltransferase II (CPT II). Carnitine inborn errors of metabolism could result from defects in carnitine biosynthesis, carnitine transport, or mitochondrial carnitine–acylcarnitine cycle. The presentation of these disorders is variable but common findings include hypoketotic hypoglycemia, cardio(myopathy), and liver disease. In this review, the metabolism and homeostasis of carnitine are discussed. Then we present details of different inborn errors of carnitine metabolism, including clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment options. At the end, we discuss some of the causes of secondary carnitine deficiency.
Psyllium (Plantago Ovata Forsk) Husk Powder as a Natural Superdisintegrant for Orodispersible Formulations: A Study on Meloxicam Tablets
Authors: Draksiene Gailute , Kopustinskiene Dalia M. , Lazauskas Robertas , Bernatoniene Jurga
Published: September 2019

(1) Background: In this work, we investigated the application of a natural superdisintegrant, psyllium (Plantago ovata Forsk) husk powder, for the manufacture of orodispersible meloxicam tablets. Meloxicam was chosen as a model compound for the study. (2) Methods: The tablets were prepared using different concentrations of psyllium husk by direct compression. Bulk density, tapped density, hardness, friability, in vitro disintegration, and dissolution time tests were used to assess the quality of the formulations. (3) Results: Psyllium husk powder significantly increased the dissolution rate of meloxicam. The formulation containing 16 mg of psyllium husk powder showed the lowest wetting time, the highest water absorption ratio, and the lowest disintegration time compared to the control and to the other formulations. These effects may be attributed to the rapid uptake of water due to the vigorous swelling ability of psyllium husk powder. (4) Conclusions: The powder could be recommended as an effective natural superdisintegrant for orodispersible formulations.
Optimization of Preparation and Preclinical Pharmacokinetics of Celastrol-Encapsulated Silk Fibroin Nanoparticles in the Rat
Authors: Onyeabor Felicia , Paik Amy , Kovvasu Surya , Ding Baoyue , Lin Jelissa , Wahid Md Arif , Prabhu Sunil , Betageri Guru , Wang Jeffrey
Published: September 2019

Celastrol (CL), a bioactive compound isolated from Tripterygium wilfordii, has demonstrated bioactivities against a variety of diseases including cancer and obesity. However, its poor water solubility and rapid in vivo clearance limit its clinical applications. To overcome these limitations, nanotechnology has been employed to improve its pharmacokinetic properties. Nanoparticles made of biological materials offer minimal adverse effects while maintaining the efficacy of encapsulated therapeutics. Silk fibroin (SF) solution was prepared successfully by extraction from the cocoons of silkworms, and a final concentration of 2 mg/mL SF solution was used for the preparation of CL-loaded SF nanoparticles (CL-SFNP) by the desolvation method. A stirring speed of 750 rpm and storage time of 20 h at −20 °C resulted in optimized product yield. A high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method was developed and validated for the analysis of CL in rat plasma in terms of selectivity, linearity, intra-/inter-day precision and accuracy, and recovery. No interference was observed in rat plasma. Linearity in the concentration range of 0.05–5 µg/mL was observed with R2 of 0.999. Precision and accuracy values were below the limit of acceptance criteria, i.e., 15% for quality control (QC) samples and 20% for lower limit of quantification (LLOQ) samples. Rats were given intravenous (IV) administration of 1 mg/kg of pure CL in PEG 300 solution or CL-SFNP. The pharmacokinetic profile was improved with CL-SFNP compared to pure CL. Pure CL resulted in a maximum concentration (Cmax) value of 0.17 µg mL−1 at 5 min following administration, whereas that for CL-SFNP was 0.87 µg mL−1 and the extrapolated initial concentrations (C0) were 0.25 and 1.09 µg mL−1, respectively, for pure CL and CL-SFNP. A 2.4-fold increase in total area under the curve (AUC0-inf) (µg h mL−1) was observed with CL-SFNP when compared with pure CL. CL-SFNP demonstrated longer mean residence time (MRT; 0.67 h) than pure CL (0.26 h). In conclusion, the preparation of CL-SFNP was optimized and the formulation demonstrated improved pharmacokinetic properties compared to CL in solution following IV administration.
Inducing the Degradation of Disease-Related Proteins Using Heterobifunctional Molecules
Authors: Delport Alexandré , Hewer Raymond
Published: September 2019

Current drug development strategies that target either enzymatic or receptor proteins for which specific small molecule ligands can be designed for modulation, result in a large portion of the proteome being overlooked as undruggable. The recruitment of natural degradation cascades for targeted protein removal using heterobifunctional molecules (or degraders) provides a likely avenue to expand the druggable proteome. In this review, we discuss the use of this drug development strategy in relation to degradation cascade-recruiting mechanisms and successfully targeted disease-related proteins. Essential characteristics to be considered in degrader design are deliberated upon and future development challenges mentioned.
Drug Metabolite Cluster-Based Data-Mining Method for Comprehensive Metabolism Study of 5-hydroxy-6,7,3′,4′-tetramethoxyflavone in Rats
Authors: Wang Yuqi , Mei Xiaodan , Liu Zihan , Li Jie , Zhang Xiaoxin , Lang Shuang , Dai Long , Zhang Jiayu
Published: September 2019

The screening of drug metabolites in biological matrixes and structural characterization based on product ion spectra is among the most important, but also the most challenging due to the significant interferences from endogenous species. Traditionally, metabolite detection is accomplished primarily on the basis of predicted molecular masses or fragmentation patterns of prototype drug metabolites using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS). Although classical techniques are well-suited for achieving the partial characterization of prototype drug metabolites, there is a pressing need for a strategy to enable comprehensive drug metabolism depiction. Therefore, we present drug metabolite clusters (DMCs), different from, but complementary to, traditional approaches for mining the information regarding drugs and their metabolites on the basis of raw, processed, or identified tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) data. In this paper, we describe a DMC-based data-mining method for the metabolite identification of 5-hydroxy-6,7,3′,4′-tetramethoxyflavone (HTF), a typical hydroxylated-polymethoxyflavonoid (OH-PMF), which addressed the challenge of creating a thorough metabolic profile. Consequently, eight primary metabolism clusters, sixteen secondary metabolism clusters, and five tertiary metabolism clusters were proposed and 106 metabolites (19 potential metabolites included) were detected and identified positively and tentatively. These metabolites were presumed to generate through oxidation (mono-oxidation, di-oxidation), methylation, demethylation, methoxylation, glucuronidation, sulfation, ring cleavage, and their composite reactions. In conclusion, our study expounded drug metabolites in rats and provided a reference for further research on therapeutic material basis and the mechanism of drugs.
Stretchable and Washable Electroluminescent Display Screen-Printed on Textile
Authors: Janczak Daniel , Zych Marcin , Raczyński Tomasz , Dybowska-Sarapuk Łucja , Pepłowski Andrzej , Krzemiński Jakub , Sosna-Głębska Aleksandra , Znajdek Katarzyna , Sibiński Maciej , Jakubowska Małgorzata
Published: September 2019

Stretchable polymer composites are a new group of materials with a wide range of application possibilities in wearable electronics. The purpose of this study was to fabricate stretchable electroluminescent (EL) structures using developed polymer compositions, based on multiple different nanomaterials: luminophore nanopowders, dielectric, carbon nanotubes, and conductive platelets. The multi-layered EL structures have been printed directly on textiles using screen printing technology. During research, the appropriate rheological properties of the developed composite pastes, and their suitability for printed electronics, have been confirmed. The structure that has been created from the developed materials has been tested in terms of its mechanical strength and resistance to washing or ironing.
Synthesis of New Magnetic Crosslinked Poly (Ionic Liquid) Nanocomposites for Fast Congo Red Removal from Industrial Wastewater
Authors: Atta Ayman M. , Ezzat Abdelrahman O. , Moustafa Yaser M. , Sabeela Nourah I. , Tawfeek Ahmed M. , Al-Lohedan Hamad A. , Hashem Ahmed I.
Published: September 2019

Advanced materials reliant on cross-linked magnetic poly (ionic liquids) (PILs) have been widely utilized in environmental applications for water purification. The present work demonstrates our preparation of a new magnetic cross-linked PIL based on quaternized 4-vinyl-pyridine-co-acrylamide (QVP/AAm). The chemical composition, thermal stability, magnetic properties, morphology, particle sizes, and zeta potential of the magnetic QVP/AAm composites were investigated. Fast adsorption and desorption kinetics, high adsorption capacity, rapid magnetic separation, and the absence of secondary pollution in the adsorption process make QVP/AAm-Fe3O4 a highly effective adsorbent for the elimination of anionic acidic Congo red contaminants from industrial wastewater.
High Stability Thiol-Coated Gold Nanostars Monolayers with Photo-Thermal Antibacterial Activity and Wettability Control
Authors: Rovati Davide , Albini Benedetta , Galinetto Pietro , Grisoli Pietro , Bassi Barbara , Pallavicini Piersandro , Dacarro Giacomo , Taglietti Angelo
Published: September 2019

The adhesion and proliferation of bacteria on abiotic surfaces pose challenges in both health care and industrial applications. Gold nanostars (GNSs) monolayers grafted on glass have demonstrated to exert antibacterial action due to their photo-thermal features. Here, these GNS layers were further functionalized using thiols monolayers, in order to impart different wettability to the surfaces and thus adding a feature that could help to fight bacterial proliferation. Thiol that has different functional groups was used and the thiol-protected surfaces were characterized by means of UV-vis spectroscopy, contact angles, SEM and surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). We verified that (i) coating with the proper thiol allows us to impart high hydrophilicity or hydrophobicity to the surfaces (with contact angle values ranging from 10 to 120°); (ii) GNS monolayers are strongly stabilized by functionalization with thiols, with shelf stability increasing from a few weeks to more than three months and (iii) photo-thermal features and subsequent antibacterial effects caused by hyperthermia are not changed by thiols layers, allowing us to kill at least 99.99% of representative bacterial strains.
Effect of pH-Responsive Charge-Conversional Polymer Coating to Cationic Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanostructures for Tumor Microenvironment-Targeted Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Ryu Kitae , Park Jaehong , Kim Tae-il
Published: September 2019

Tumor tissue represents a slightly acidic pH condition compared to normal tissue due to the accumulation of lactic acids via anaerobic metabolism. In this work, pH-responsive charge-conversional polymer (poly(ethylene imine)-poly(l-lysine)-poly(l-glutamic acid), PKE polymer) was employed for endowing charge-conversional property and serum stability to poly(ethylene imine) conjugated reduced graphene oxide-based drug delivery system (PEI-rGO). Zeta-potential value of PEI-rGO coated with PK5E7 polymer (PK5E7(PEI-rGO)) was −10.9 mV at pH 7.4 and converted to 29.2 mV at pH 6.0, showing pH-responsive charge-conversional property. Sharp-edged plate morphology of PEI-rGO was transformed to spherical nanostructures with vague edges by PK5E7 coating. Size of PK5E7(PEI-rGO) was found to be smaller than that of PEI-rGO in the serum condition, showing its increased serum stability. Loaded doxorubicin (DOX) in PK5E7(PEI-rGO) could be released rapidly in lysosomal condition (pH 5.0, 5 mM glutathione). Furthermore, DOX-loaded PK5E7(PEI-rGO) showed enhanced anticancer activity in HeLa and A549 cells in the tumor microenvironment-mimicking condition (pH 6.0, serum), which would be mediated by non-specific cellular interaction with decorated serum proteins. These results indicate that the pH-responsive charge-conversional PKE polymer coating strategy of cationic rGO nanostructures possesses a potential for acidic tumor microenvironment-targeted drug delivery systems.
Characterization and Protective Activity of Monoclonal Antibodies Directed against Streptococcus suis Serotype 2 Capsular Polysaccharide Obtained Using a Glycoconjugate
Authors: Goyette-Desjardins Guillaume , Lacouture Sonia , Auger Jean-Philippe , Roy René , Gottschalk Marcelo , Segura Mariela
Published: September 2019

Streptococcus suis serotype 2 is an encapsulated bacterium and an important swine pathogen. Opsonizing antibody responses targeting capsular polysaccharides (CPSs) are protective against extracellular pathogens. To elucidate the protective activity of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) directed against S. suis serotype 2 CPS, mice were immunized with a serotype 2 CPS-glycoconjugate and three hybridomas were isolated; of which, two were murine IgMs and the other a murine IgG1. Whereas the IgMs (mAbs 9E7 and 13C8) showed different reactivity levels with S. suis serotypes 1, 1/2, 2 and 14, the IgG1 (mAb 16H11) was shown to be serotype 2-specific. All mAbs targeted the sialylated chain of the CPSs. Using an opsonophagocytosis assay, the IgMs were opsonizing towards the S. suis serotypes to which they cross-react, while the IgG1 failed to induce bacterial elimination. In a model of mouse passive immunization followed by a lethal challenge with S. suis serotype 2, the IgG1 and IgM cross-reacting only with serotype 14 (mAb 13C8) failed to protect, while the IgM cross-reacting with serotypes 1, 1/2, and 14 (mAb 9E7) was shown to be protective by limiting bacteremia. These new mAbs show promise as new S. suis diagnostic tools, as well as potential for therapeutic applications.
Immobilization of Trypsin from Porcine Pancreas onto Chitosan Nonwoven by Covalent Bonding
Authors: Kim Jung Soo , Lee Sohee
Published: September 2019

The present study deals with the potential application of chitosan nonwoven for biomedical textiles based on enzyme immobilization. For this, chitosan nonwoven was first cross-linked with glutaraldehyde to introduce aldehyde groups at optimal conditions. To immobilize the enzyme trypsin onto glutaraldehyde-pre-activated chitosan nonwoven, several parameters such as pH, enzyme concentration, and reaction times were investigated. In addition, the pH, thermal stability, storage stability, and reusability of immobilized trypsin were examined. We found that the optimal immobilization conditions for trypsin were pH 8.5, enzyme concentration of 8% (owf), and treatment time of 30 min. Trypsin was immobilized at 25 °C efficiently. The immobilized trypsin showed lower pH stability and better thermal stability than free trypsin. The immobilized trypsin showed 50% of its initial activity after being used 15 times and 80% of that after 20 days of storage at 4 °C. SEM analysis also confirmed that trypsin was immobilized on chitosan nonwoven.