bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiorespiratory Fitness without Exercise Testing Can Predict All-Cause Mortality Risk in a Representative Sample of Korean Older Adults
Authors: Song Moongu , Lee Inhwan , Kang Hyunsik
Published: May 2019

This study examined the association between cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) without exercise testing and all-cause mortality in Korean older adults. The present study was carried out using data from the 2008 and 2011 Living Profiles of Older People Survey. A total of 14,122 participants aged 60 years and older (57% women) completed the 2008 baseline and 2011 follow-up assessments (i.e., socioeconomic status, health behaviors and conditions, and prevalence of chronic diseases), and they were included for the final analyses. CRF was estimated (eCRF) with sex-specific algorithms and classified as lower (lowest 25%), middle (middle 50%), and upper (highest 25%). Cox proportional hazards regression was used to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) across eCRF categories. In total, multivariable-adjusted HRs and 95% CIs were 1 for the upper eCRF group (referent), 1.059 (0.814~1.378) for the middle eCRF group, and 1.714 (1.304~2.253) for the lower eCRF group. In men, multivariable-adjusted HRs and 95% CIs were 1 for the upper eCRF group (referent), 1.011 (0.716~1.427) for the middle eCRF group, and 1.566 (1.098~2.234) for the lower eCRF group. In women, multivariable-adjusted HRs and 95% CIs were 1 for the upper eCRF group (referent), 1.064 (0.707~1.602) for the middle eCRF group, and 1.599 (1.032~2.478) for the lower eCRF group. The current findings suggest that eCRF may have an independent predictor of all-cause mortality, underscoring the importance of promoting physical activity to maintain a healthful level of CRF in Korean geriatric population.
High-Performance Work System, Work Well-Being, and Employee Creativity: Cross-Level Moderating Role of Transformational Leadership
Authors: Miao Rentao , Cao Yi
Published: May 2019

Under the new normal, the economic development mode and growth momentum of China has brought about fundamental changes, which means that the development of enterprises has gradually shifted from being factor-and investment-driven to being innovation-and talent-driven. As the foundation of corporate innovation, employee creativity plays an important role in this process. In the field of strategic human resource management, high-performance work system is the embodiment of its core competence. Although some research has begun to try to explore the impact of high-performance work system on employee creativity, the underlying mechanism and the boundary condition is not yet fully understood. According to the Job demands-resources (JD-R) model, this study theorized and examined whether and when high-performance work system stimulate employee creativity. Using a sample of large and medium-sized enterprises in China, we collected data, which are time-lagged and multilevel, from 266 employees in 61 departments. Results of the hierarchical linear model found that (1) High-performance work system is positively related to employee creativity; (2) High-performance work system positively affects employee work well-being; (3) Work well-being positively affects employee creativity; (4) Employee work well-being partially mediates the relationship between high-performance work system and creativity; (5) Transformational leadership, which represents an important contextual variable in the workplace, moderates the relationship between work well-being and employee creativity; (6) Moreover, we have also revealed that transformational leadership can moderate the indirect effect of high-performance work system on employee creativity. We discussed the theoretical and practical implications of these findings.
Depressive Symptoms among Industrial Workers in Vietnam and Correlated Factors: A Multi-Site Survey
Authors: Tran Bach Xuan , Vu Giang Thu , Pham Kiet Tuan Huy , Vuong Quan-Hoang , Ho Manh-Tung , Vuong Thu-Trang , Nguyen Hong-Kong T. , Nguyen Cuong Tat , Latkin Carl A. , Ho Cyrus S.H. , Ho Roger C.M.
Published: May 2019

Depressive disorders have been found to be a significant health issue among industrial workers, resulting from work-related factors and causing serious burdens for the workers as well as their employers. Literature on mental health problems of Vietnamese industrial workers has been limited, despite the rapid foreign investment-fueled industrialization process of the country. This study aimed to fill the gap in literature by examining the prevalence of depressive disorders and their potential associated factors among a cohort of Vietnamese industrial workers. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 3 industrial areas in Hanoi and Bac Ninh. A total of 289 workers agreed to participate in the study. Generalized linear mixed models were applied to identify associated factors with depression status of respondents. 38.6% of participants reported suffering depression. Factors found to be positively associated with the possibility of having depression and higher PHQ9 score were long working hours, suffering more health problems, and health hazards exposure at work. Meanwhile, being females, having more children, living with parents, engaging in smoking, and being local workers were found to correlate with lower likelihood of being depressed. The findings suggested the importance of regular health screening, work safety assurance, and social support outside of workplace on the mental health of the workers.
Work Ability among Italian Bank Video Display Terminal Operators: Socio-Demographic, Lifestyle, and Occupational Correlates
Authors: Garzaro Giacomo , Sottimano Ilaria , Di Maso Matteo , Bergamaschi Enrico , Coggiola Maurizio , Converso Daniela , Iavicoli Sergio , Pira Enrico , Viotti Sara
Published: May 2019

Bank employees, especially video display terminal (VDT) operators, are constantly exposed to various occupational risks, such as the adoption of awkward postures, repetitive finger movements, and utilization of software with poor usability, which may lead to computer visual syndrome, tension headache, lower back pain, and/or stress, which compromises their overall health and work ability (WA). Thus, in this cross-sectional study, we aimed to establish that the determinants among socio-demographic, lifestyle, and occupational characteristics are associated with impaired WA in bank VDT operators. To this end, we administered a set of socio-demographic, lifestyle, occupational, and Work Ability Index (WAI) questionnaires to 2077 Italian bank VDT operators. Univariate linear regression models reveal that their mean WAI score is inversely associated with gender, age, dependent family members, and a part-time job, whereas it is directly associated with the educational level and physical activity. In addition, multivariate analysis shows that their mean WAI score is inversely associated with age and a part-time job, but was directly associated with the educational level, the marital status, and physical activity. Overall, VDT operators working in Italian banks display high WA even though this latter tends to decline with aging. In light of the progressive aging of the workforce in Italy, our results provide the rationale for the design of interventions aimed to mitigate the detrimental effects of aging on WA of bank VDT operators.
Abnormalities on Chest Computed Tomography and Lung Function Following an Intense Dust Exposure: A 17-Year Longitudinal Study
Authors: Liu Charles , Putman Barbara , Singh Ankura , Zeig-Owens Rachel , Hall Charles B. , Schwartz Theresa , Webber Mayris P. , Cohen Hillel W. , Fazzari Melissa J. , Prezant David J. , Weiden Michael D.
Published: May 2019

Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) firefighters experienced intense dust exposure working at the World Trade Center (WTC) site on and after 11/9/2001 (9/11). We hypothesized that high-intensity WTC exposure caused abnormalities found on chest computed tomography (CT). Between 11/9/2001–10/9/2018, 4277 firefighters underwent a clinically-indicated chest CT. Spirometric measurements and symptoms were recorded during routine medical examinations. High-intensity exposure, defined as initial arrival at the WTC on the morning of 9/11, increased the risk of bronchial wall thickening, emphysema, and air trapping. Early post-9/11 symptoms of wheeze and shortness of breath were associated with bronchial wall thickening, emphysema, and air trapping. The risk of accelerated forced expiratory volume at one second (FEV1) decline (>64 mL/year decline) increased with bronchial wall thickening and emphysema, but decreased with air trapping. The risk of airflow obstruction also increased with bronchial wall thickening and emphysema but decreased with air trapping. In a previously healthy occupational cohort, high-intensity WTC exposure increased the risk for CT abnormalities. Bronchial wall thickening and emphysema were associated with respiratory symptoms, accelerated FEV1 decline, and airflow obstruction. Air trapping was associated with respiratory symptoms, although lung function was preserved. Physiologic differences between CT abnormalities suggest that distinct types of airway injury may result from a common exposure.
Environmental Education, Knowledge, and High School Students’ Intention toward Separation of Solid Waste on Campus
Authors: Liao Chuanhui , Li Hui
Published: May 2019

To achieve substantial and sustainable levels of separation of municipal solid waste (MSW), it is essential to engage young people as they are important drivers of change and will have a major influence on the future of the world. This study aimed to understand Chinese high school students’ intention toward the separation of solid waste on campus (SSWC). The study has used the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) as its theoretical framework, and further incorporates two additional constructs (environmental education and environmental knowledge) to explain the separation of solid waste (SSW) behavior of 562 high school students. The results indicate that environmental education is essential to ensure that students have required knowledge and positive attitudes toward SSWC. Knowledge was the best predictor of high school students’ separation behavior. Moreover, a lack of subjective norm from the important people could prevent students from participating in this process, regardless of their positive attitudes. The implications for policy and scope for further research are discussed.
MRSA Point Prevalence among Health Care Workers in German Rehabilitation Centers: A Multi-Center, Cross-Sectional Study in a Non-Outbreak Setting
Authors: Schubert Melanie , Kämpf Daniel , Wahl Marlena , Hofmann Samuel , Girbig Maria , Jatzwauk Lutz , Peters Claudia , Nienhaus Albert , Seidler Andreas
Published: May 2019

People working in health care services have an increased risk of being infected with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), though little is known about the prevalence in rehabilitation centers. This cross-sectional study investigated the MRSA prevalence in employees from different rehabilitation centers and aimed to identify risk factors for MRSA transmission. We invited all staff (i.e., with and without patient contact from 22 participating rehabilitation centers; n = 2499) to participate. Study participation included a questionnaire on personal characteristics, lifestyle, personal and occupational risk factors for MRSA and nasal swabs taken by the study team. In total, 1005 persons participated in the study (response: 40.2%). Only four participants carried MRSA (0.40 (95% CI 0.00–1.00) per 100). MRSA carriage did not seem to be occupationally related, as it was found in different occupations with and without direct contact with MRSA patients, as well as in different clinics with different indications and patient clientele. We could not find a clear association between MRSA carriage and potential risk factors due to the low number of cases found. Genotyping revealed the spa types t032 (Barnim epidemic strain) and t1223. Our results suggest a low point prevalence of nasal MRSA colonization in a non-outbreak setting in employees from rehabilitation centers.
Prototype of the 3D Cadastral System Based on a NoSQL Database and a JavaScript Visualization Application
Authors: Višnjevac Nenad , Mihajlović Rajica , Šoškić Mladen , Cvijetinović Željko , Bajat Branislav
Published: May 2019

3D cadastral systems are more complex than traditional cadastral systems and they require more complex technical solutions and innovative use of developing technologies. Regarding data integrity and data consistency, 3D cadastral data should be maintained by a Database Management System (DBMS). Furthermore, there are still challenges regarding visualization of 3D cadastral data. A prototype of the 3D cadastral system based on a NoSQL database and a JavaScript application for 3D visualization is designed and tested in order to investigate the possibilities of using new technical solutions. It is assumed that this approach, with further development, could be a good basis for the development of a modern 3D cadastral system. MongoDB database is used for storing data and Cesium JavaScript library is used for 3D visualization. The system uses an LADM (Land Administration Domain Model) based data model. Additionally, script languages, libraries, application programming interfaces (APIs), software and data formats are used for the system development. The case study is based on the real cadastral data. The underground object and building units located below and above the ground level are used to test the proposed data model and the system’s functionality. The proposed system needs further development in order to provide full support to a modern 3D cadastral system. However, it allows maintenance of 3D cadastral data and basic 3D visualization with the interactive approach.
Mutation of ACX1, a Jasmonic Acid Biosynthetic Enzyme, Leads to Petal Degeneration in Chinese Cabbage (Brassica campestris ssp. pekinensis)
Authors: Peng Shenling , Huang Shengnan , Liu Zhiyong , Feng Hui
Published: May 2019

Petal color, size, and morphology play important roles in protecting other floral organs, attracting pollinators, and facilitating sexual reproduction in plants. In a previous study, we obtained a petal degeneration mutant (pdm) from the ‘FT’ doubled haploid line of Chinese cabbage and found that the candidate gene for pdm, Bra040093, encodes the enzyme acyl-CoA oxidase1. In this study, we sought to examine the gene networks regulating petal development in pdm plants. We show that the mRNA and protein expression of Bra040093, which is involved in the jasmonic acid (JA) biosynthetic pathway, were significantly lower in the petals of pdm plants than in those of ‘FT’ plants. Similarly, the JA and methyl jasmonate (MeJA) contents of petals were significantly lower in pdm plants than in ‘FT’ plants and we found that exogenous application of these hormones to the inflorescences of pdm plants restored the ‘FT’ phenotype. Comparative analyses of the transcriptomes of ‘FT’, pdm and pdm + JA (pJA) plants revealed 10,160 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) with consistent expression tendencies in ‘FT’ vs. pdm and pJA vs. pdm comparisons. Among these DEGs, we identified 69 DEGs related to floral organ development, 11 of which are involved in petal development regulated by JA. On the basis of qRT-PCR verification, we propose regulatory pathways whereby JA may mediate petal development in the pdm mutant. We demonstrate that mutation of Bra040093 in pdm plants leads to reduced JA levels and that this in turn promotes changes in the expression of genes that are expressed in response to JA, ultimately resulting in petal degeneration. These findings thus indicate that JA is associated with petal development in Chinese cabbage. These results enhance our knowledge on the molecular mechanisms underlying petal development and lay the foundations for further elucidation of the mechanisms associated with floral organ development in Chinese cabbage.
Pioglitazone Improves the Function of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients
Authors: Yoon Yeo Min , Lee Jun Hee , Yun Chul Won , Lee Sang Hun
Published: May 2019

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are optimal sources of autologous stem cells for cell-based therapy in chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, CKD-associated pathophysiological conditions, such as endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and oxidative stress, decrease MSC function. In this work, we study the protective effect of pioglitazone on MSCs isolated from CKD patients (CKD-MSCs) against CKD-induced ER stress. In CKD-MSCs, ER stress is found to induce mitochondrial reactive oxygen species generation and mitochondrial dysfunction. Treatment with pioglitazone reduces the expression of ER stress markers and mitochondrial fusion proteins. Pioglitazone increases the expression of cellular prion protein (PrPC) in CKD-MSCs, which is dependent on the expression levels of proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC-1α). Treatment with pioglitazone is found to protect CKD-MSCs against reactive oxygen species generation, aberrant mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation of complexes I and IV, and aberrant proliferation capacity through the PGC-1α-PrPC axis. These results indicate that pioglitazone protects the mitochondria of MSCs from CKD-induced ER stress. Pioglitazone treatment of CKD-MSCs may be a potential therapeutic strategy for CKD patients.
Antioxidant Activity and Toxicity of Fullerenols via Bioluminescence Signaling: Role of Oxygen Substituents
Authors: Kovel Ekaterina , Sachkova Anna , Vnukova Natalia , Churilov Grigoriy , Knyazeva Elena , Kudryasheva Nadezhda
Published: May 2019

Fullerenols are nanosized water-soluble polyhydroxylated derivatives of fullerenes, a specific allotropic form of carbon, bioactive compounds, and perspective basis for drug development. Our paper analyzes the antioxidant activity and toxicity of a series of fullerenols with different number of oxygen substituents. Two groups of fullerenols were under investigation: (1) C60Oy(OH)x, C60,70Oy(OH)x, where x+y = 24–28 and (2) C60,70Oy(OH)x, Fe0,5C60Oy(OH)x, Gd@C82Oy(OH)x, where x+y = 40–42. Bioluminescent cellular and enzymatic assays (luminous marine bacteria and their enzymatic reactions, respectively) were applied to monitor toxicity in the model fullerenol solutions and bioluminescence was applied as a signaling physiological parameter. The inhibiting concentrations of the fullerenols were determined, revealing the fullerenols’ toxic effects. Antioxidant fullerenol’ ability was studied in solutions of model oxidizer, 1,4-benzoquinone, and detoxification coefficients of general and oxidative types (DGT and DOxT) were calculated. All fullerenols produced toxic effect at high concentrations (>0.01 g L−1), while their antioxidant activity was demonstrated at low and ultralow concentrations (<0.001 g L−1). Quantitative toxic and antioxidant characteristics of the fullerenols (effective concentrations, concentration ranges, DGT, and DOxT) were found to depend on the number of oxygen substituents. Lower toxicity and higher antioxidant activity were determined in solutions of fullerenols with fewer oxygen substituents (x+y = 24–28). The differences in fullerenol properties were attributed to their catalytic activity due to reversible electron acceptance, radical trapping, and balance of reactive oxygen species in aqueous solutions. The results provide pharmaceutical sciences with a basis for selection of carbon nanoparticles with appropriate toxic and antioxidant characteristics. Based on the results, we recommend, to reduce the toxicity of prospective endohedral gadolinium-fullerenol preparations Gd@C82Oy(OH)x, decreasing the number of oxygen groups to x+y = 24–28. The potential of bioluminescence methods to compare toxic and antioxidant characteristics of carbon nanostructures were demonstrated.
Arazyme Suppresses Hepatic Steatosis and Steatohepatitis in Diet-Induced Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease-Like Mouse Model
Authors: Li Hua , Yoo Wonbeak , Park Hye-Mi , Lim Soo-Youn , Shin Dong-Ha , Kim Seokho , Park Ho-Yong , Jeong Tae-Sook
Published: May 2019

Arazyme, a metalloprotease from the spider Nephila clavata, exerts hepatoprotective activity in CCL4-induced acute hepatic injury. This study investigated the hepatoprotective effects in high-fat diet (HFD)-induced non-alcoholic fatty liver disease-like C57BL/6J mice. The mice were randomly divided into four groups (n = 10/group): the normal diet group, the HFD group, the arazyme group (HFD with 0.025% arazyme), and the milk thistle (MT) group (HFD with 0.1% MT). Dietary supplementation of arazyme for 13 weeks significantly lowered plasma triglyceride (TG) and non-esterified fatty acid levels. Suppression of HFD-induced hepatic steatosis in the arazyme group was caused by the reduced hepatic TG and total cholesterol (TC) contents. Arazyme supplementation decreased hepatic lipogenesis-related gene expression, sterol regulatory element-binding transcription protein 1 (Srebf1), fatty acid synthase (Fas), acetyl-CoA carboxylase 1 (Acc1), stearoyl-CoA desaturase-1 (Scd1), Scd2, glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase (Gpam), diacylglycerol O-acyltransferase 1 (Dgat1), and Dgat2. Arazyme directly reduced palmitic acid (PA)-induced TG accumulation in HepG2 cells. Arazyme suppressed macrophage infiltration and tumor necrosis factor α (Tnfa), interleukin-1β (Il1b), and chemokine-ligand-2 (Ccl2) expression in the liver, and inhibited secretion of TNFα and expression of inflammatory mediators, Tnfa, Il1b, Ccl2, Ccl3, Ccl4, and Ccl5, in PA-induced RAW264.7 cells. Arazyme effectively protected hepatic steatosis and steatohepatitis by inhibiting SREBP-1-mediated lipid accumulation and macrophage-mediated inflammation.
Soil Application of Effective Microorganisms (EM) Maintains Leaf Photosynthetic Efficiency, Increases Seed Yield and Quality Traits of Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Plants Grown on Different Substrates
Authors: Iriti Marcello , Scarafoni Alessio , Pierce Simon , Castorina Giulia , Vitalini Sara
Published: May 2019

EM (effective microorganisms) is a biofertilizer consisting of a mixed culture of potentially beneficial microorganisms. In this study, we investigated the effects of EM treatment on leaf in vivo chlorophyll a fluorescence of photosystem II (PSII), yield, and macronutrient content of bean plants grown on different substrates (nutrient rich substrate vs. nutrient poor sandy soil) in controlled environmental conditions (pot experiment in greenhouse). EM-treated plants maintained optimum leaf photosynthetic efficiency two weeks longer than the control plants, and increased yield independent of substrate. The levels of seed nutritionally-relevant molecules (proteins, lipids, and starch) were only slightly modified, apart from the protein content, which increased in plants grown in sandy soil. Although EM can be considered a promising and environmentally friendly technology for sustainable agriculture, more studies are needed to elucidate the mechanism(s) of action of EM, as well as its efficacy under open field conditions.
Non-Linear Quantitative Structure–Activity Relationships Modelling, Mechanistic Study and In-Silico Design of Flavonoids as Potent Antioxidants
Authors: Žuvela Petar , David Jonathan , Yang Xin , Huang Dejian , Wong Ming Wah
Published: May 2019

In this work, we developed quantitative structure–activity relationships (QSAR) models for prediction of oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) of flavonoids. Both linear (partial least squares—PLS) and non-linear models (artificial neural networks—ANNs) were built using parameters of two well-established antioxidant activity mechanisms, namely, the hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) mechanism defined with the minimum bond dissociation enthalpy, and the sequential proton-loss electron transfer (SPLET) mechanism defined with proton affinity and electron transfer enthalpy. Due to pronounced solvent effects within the ORAC assay, the hydration energy was also considered. The four-parameter PLS-QSAR model yielded relatively high root mean square errors (RMSECV = 0.783, RMSEE = 0.668, RMSEP = 0.900). Conversely, the ANN-QSAR model yielded considerably lower errors (RMSEE = 0.180 ± 0.059, RMSEP1 = 0.164 ± 0.128, and RMSEP2 = 0.151 ± 0.114) due to the inherent non-linear relationships between molecular structures of flavonoids and ORAC values. Five-fold cross-validation was found to be unsuitable for the internal validation of the ANN-QSAR model with a high RMSECV of 0.999 ± 0.253; which is due to limited sample size where resampling with replacement is a considerably better alternative. Chemical domains of applicability were defined for both models confirming their reliability and robustness. Based on the PLS coefficients and partial derivatives, both models were interpreted in terms of the HAT and SPLET mechanisms. Theoretical computations based on density functional theory at ωb97XD/6-311++G(d,p) level of theory were also carried out to further shed light on the plausible mechanism of anti-peroxy radical activity. Calculated energetics for simplified models (genistein and quercetin) with peroxyl radical derived from 2,2′-azobis (2-amidino-propane) dihydrochloride suggested that both SPLET and single electron transfer followed by proton loss (SETPL) mechanisms are competitive and more favorable than HAT in aqueous medium. The finding is in good accord with the ANN-based QSAR modelling results. Finally, the strongly predictive ANN-QSAR model was used to predict antioxidant activities for a series of 115 flavonoids designed combinatorially with flavone as a template. Structural trends were analyzed, and general guidelines for synthesis of new flavonoid derivatives with potentially potent antioxidant activities were given.
Multiple Glycation Sites in Blood Plasma Proteins as an Integrated Biomarker of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Soboleva Alena , Mavropulo-Stolyarenko Gregory , Karonova Tatiana , Thieme Domenika , Hoehenwarter Wolfgang , Ihling Christian , Stefanov Vasily , Grishina Tatiana , Frolov Andrej
Published: May 2019

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is one of the most widely spread metabolic diseases. Because of its asymptomatic onset and slow development, early diagnosis and adequate glycaemic control are the prerequisites for successful T2DM therapy. In this context, individual amino acid residues might be sensitive indicators of alterations in blood glycation levels. Moreover, due to a large variation in the half-life times of plasma proteins, a generalized biomarker, based on multiple glycation sites, might provide comprehensive control of the glycemic status across any desired time span. Therefore, here, we address the patterns of glycation sites in highly-abundant blood plasma proteins of T2DM patients and corresponding age- and gender-matched controls by comprehensive liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). The analysis revealed 42 lysyl residues, significantly upregulated under hyperglycemic conditions. Thereby, for 32 glycation sites, biomarker behavior was demonstrated here for the first time. The differentially glycated lysines represented nine plasma proteins with half-lives from 2 to 21 days, giving access to an integrated biomarker based on multiple protein-specific Amadori peptides. The validation of this biomarker relied on linear discriminant analysis (LDA) with random sub-sampling of the training set and leave-one-out cross-validation (LOOCV), which resulted in an accuracy, specificity, and sensitivity of 92%, 100%, and 85%, respectively.
Evolutionary Plasticity in Detoxification Gene Modules: The Preservation and Loss of the Pregnane X Receptor in Chondrichthyes Lineages
Authors: Fonseca Elza S. S. , Ruivo Raquel , Machado André M. , Conrado Francisca , Tay Boon-Hui , Venkatesh Byrappa , Santos Miguel M. , Castro L. Filipe C.
Published: May 2019

To appraise how evolutionary processes, such as gene duplication and loss, influence an organism’s xenobiotic sensitivity is a critical question in toxicology. Of particular importance are gene families involved in the mediation of detoxification responses, such as members of the nuclear receptor subfamily 1 group I (NR1I), the pregnane X receptor (PXR), and the constitutive androstane receptor (CAR). While documented in multiple vertebrate genomes, PXR and CAR display an intriguing gene distribution. PXR is absent in birds and reptiles, while CAR shows a tetrapod-specific occurrence. More elusive is the presence of PXR and CAR gene orthologs in early branching and ecologically-important Chondrichthyes (chimaeras, sharks and rays). Therefore, we investigated various genome projects and use them to provide the first identification and functional characterization of a Chondrichthyan PXR from the chimaera elephant shark (Callorhinchus milii, Holocephali). Additionally, we substantiate the targeted PXR gene loss in Elasmobranchii (sharks and rays). Compared to other vertebrate groups, the chimaera PXR ortholog displays a diverse expression pattern (skin and gills) and a unique activation profile by classical xenobiotic ligands. Our findings provide insights into the molecular landscape of detoxification mechanisms and suggest lineage-specific adaptations in response to xenobiotics in gnathostome evolution.
Predicting Apoptosis Protein Subcellular Locations based on the Protein Overlapping Property Matrix and Tri-Gram Encoding
Authors: Yang Yang , Zheng Huiwen , Wang Chunhua , Xiao Wanyue , Liu Taigang
Published: May 2019

To reveal the working pattern of programmed cell death, knowledge of the subcellular location of apoptosis proteins is essential. Besides the costly and time-consuming method of experimental determination, research into computational locating schemes, focusing mainly on the innovation of representation techniques on protein sequences and the selection of classification algorithms, has become popular in recent decades. In this study, a novel tri-gram encoding model is proposed, which is based on using the protein overlapping property matrix (POPM) for predicting apoptosis protein subcellular location. Next, a 1000-dimensional feature vector is built to represent a protein. Finally, with the help of support vector machine-recursive feature elimination (SVM-RFE), we select the optimal features and put them into a support vector machine (SVM) classifier for predictions. The results of jackknife tests on two benchmark datasets demonstrate that our proposed method can achieve satisfactory prediction performance level with less computing capacity required and could work as a promising tool to predict the subcellular locations of apoptosis proteins.
Genetic Variation for Seed Metabolite Levels in Brachypodium distachyon
Authors: Onda Yoshihiko , Inoue Komaki , Sawada Yuji , Shimizu Minami , Takahagi Kotaro , Uehara-Yamaguchi Yukiko , Hirai Masami Y. , Garvin David F. , Mochida Keiichi
Published: May 2019

Metabolite composition and concentrations in seed grains are important traits of cereals. To identify the variation in the seed metabolotypes of a model grass, namely Brachypodium distachyon, we applied a widely targeted metabolome analysis to forty inbred lines of B. distachyon and examined the accumulation patterns of 183 compounds in the seeds. By comparing the metabolotypes with the population structure of these lines, we found signature metabolites that represent different accumulation patterns for each of the three B. distachyon subpopulations. Moreover, we found that thirty-seven metabolites exhibited significant differences in their accumulation between the lines Bd21 and Bd3-1. Using a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population from a cross between Bd3-1 and Bd21, we identified the quantitative trait loci (QTLs) linked with this variation in the accumulation of thirteen metabolites. Our metabolite QTL analysis illustrated that different genetic factors may presumably regulate the accumulation of 4-pyridoxate and pyridoxamine in vitamin B6 metabolism. Moreover, we found two QTLs on chromosomes 1 and 4 that affect the accumulation of an anthocyanin, chrysanthemin. These QTLs genetically interacted to regulate the accumulation of this compound. This study demonstrates the potential for metabolite QTL mapping in B. distachyon and provides new insights into the genetic dissection of metabolomic traits in temperate grasses.
A Natural mtDNA Polymorphism in Complex III Is a Modifier of Healthspan in Mice
Authors: Hirose Misa , Künstner Axel , Schilf Paul , Tietjen Anna Katharina , Jöhren Olaf , Huebbe Patricia , Rimbach Gerald , Rupp Jan , Schwaninger Markus , Busch Hauke , Ibrahim Saleh M.
Published: May 2019

In this study, we provide experimental evidence that a maternally inherited polymorphism in the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene (mt-Cytb; m.15124A>G, Ile-Val) in mitochondrial complex III resulted in middle-aged obesity and higher susceptibility to diet-induced obesity, as well as age-related inflammatory disease, e.g., ulcerative dermatitis, in mice. As a consequence of the gene variation, we observed alterations in body composition, metabolism and mitochondrial functions, i.e., increased mitochondrial oxygen consumption rate and higher levels of reactive oxygen species, as well as in the commensal bacterial composition in the gut, with higher abundance of Proteobacteria in mice carrying the variant. These observations are in line with the previously described links of the mitochondrial complex III gene with obesity and metabolic diseases in humans. Given that these functional changes by the G variant at m.15124 in the mt-Cytb are already present in young mice that were kept under normal condition, it is plausible that the m.15124A>G variant is a disease susceptibility modifier to the diseases induced by additional stressors, i.e., dietary and/or aging stress, and that the variant results in the higher incidence of clinical diseases presentation in C57BL/6J-mt129S1/SvlmJ than C57BL/6J mice. Thus, mtDNA variants could be potential biomarkers to evaluate the healthspan.
Sequeval: An Offline Evaluation Framework for Sequence-Based Recommender Systems
Authors: Monti Diego , Palumbo Enrico , Rizzo Giuseppe , Morisio Maurizio
Published: May 2019

Recommender systems have gained a lot of popularity due to their large adoption in various industries such as entertainment and tourism. Numerous research efforts have focused on formulating and advancing state-of-the-art of systems that recommend the right set of items to the right person. However, these recommender systems are hard to compare since the published evaluation results are computed on diverse datasets and obtained using different methodologies. In this paper, we researched and prototyped an offline evaluation framework called Sequeval that is designed to evaluate recommender systems capable of suggesting sequences of items. We provide a mathematical definition of such sequence-based recommenders, a methodology for performing their evaluation, and the implementation details of eight metrics. We report the lessons learned using this framework for assessing the performance of four baselines and two recommender systems based on Conditional Random Fields (CRF) and Recurrent Neural Networks (RNN), considering two different datasets. Sequeval is publicly available and it aims to become a focal point for researchers and practitioners when experimenting with sequence-based recommender systems, providing comparable and objective evaluation results.
Characterization of Recovered Bitumen from Coarse and Fine Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement Particles
Authors: Saliani Saeed S. , Carter Alan , Baaj Hassan , Mikhailenko Peter
Published: May 2019

In the current era of road construction, it is common to add a small amount of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) in asphalt mixes without significantly changing properties such as stiffness and low-temperature cracking resistance. Not only can these mixes be better for the environment, but they can also improve certain properties like rutting resistance. However, there is no clear understanding of how RAP gradation and bitumen properties impact the mixture properties. In this study, a single RAP source was separated into coarse and fine particles and added into a hot mix asphalt (HMA). Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometry was used to evaluate the chemical properties of the bitumen, while environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) image analysis was used to visualize the differences of the virgin and RAP bitumen at a microscopic level. The observed results indicated that the recovered bitumen from coarse RAP did not have the same characteristics as the fine RAP bitumen, and the interaction of RAP bitumen with virgin bitumen significantly depended on RAP particle size. The amount of active RAP bitumen in coarse RAP particles was higher than in fine RAP particles.
Critical Defect Healing Assessment in Rat Calvaria Filled with Injectable Calcium Phosphate Cement
Authors: Schmidt Luis Eduardo , Hadad Henrique , Vasconcelos Igor Rodrigues de , Colombo Luara Teixeira , da Silva Rodrigo Capalbo , Santos Ana Flavia Piquera , Cervantes Lara Cristina Cunha , Poli Pier Paolo , Signorino Fabrizio , Maiorana Carlo , Carvalho Paulo Sérgio Perri de , Souza Francisley Ávila
Published: May 2019

(1) Background: The tissue engineering field has been working to find biomaterials that mimic the biological properties of autogenous bone grafts. (2) Aim: To evaluate the osteoconduction potential of injectable calcium phosphate cement implanted in critical defects in rat calvaria. (3) Methods: In the calvarial bone of 36 rats, 7-mm diameter critical size defects were performed. Afterwards, the animals were randomly divided into three groups according to filler material: a blood clot group (BC), blood clot membrane group (BCM), and an injectable β-tricalcium phosphate group (HBS) cement group. After periods of 30 and 60 days, the animals were euthanized, the calvaria was isolated, and submitted to a decalcification process for later blades confection. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of the neoformed bone tissue were conducted, and histometric data were statistically analyzed. (4) Results: Sixty days post-surgery, the percentages of neoformed bone were 10.67 ± 5.57 in group BC, 16.71 ± 5.0 in group BCM, and 55.11 ± 13.20 in group HBS. The bone formation values in group HBS were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than in groups BC and BCM. (5) Conclusions: Based on these results, it can be concluded that injectable calcium phosphate cement is an osteoconductive material that can be used to fill bone cavities.
Effects of Cu-Coated SiC Content on Microstructure and Properties of Laser Cladding SiCp/Al–Si Composite Coatings
Authors: Liu Yang , Li Guodong , Jiang Wenting
Published: May 2019

SiC particles (SiCp)-reinforced Al–Si matrix composite coatings were synthesized on 4032 aluminum alloy by laser cladding using powder mixtures of Al-20 wt.% Si alloy and electroless copper-plated SiC particles (SiCp-Cu). The effects of SiCp-Cu content on microstructure, phase composition, and microhardness of the SiCp/Al–Si laser cladding layer (LCL) were investigated systematically. The results showed that the microstructure of SiCp-Cu/Al–Si LCL was mainly composed of undissolved SiCp, lump-like primary Si, lump-like Al2Cu, plate-like Al4SiC4, and Al–Si–Cu ternary eutectic. In addition, the eutectic microstructure became finer with the increasing of SiCp-Cu content. The average microhardness of the LCL increased with the increasing of SiCp-Cu content. When SiCp-Cu content was 50 wt.%, the average microhardness of the LCL reached 508 HV0.05, which was about 3.5 times larger than that of the substrate. The LCL reinforced with a SiCp-Cu content of 30 wt.% exhibits the best wear resistance.
A 3D Printed Ready-Mixed Concrete Power Distribution Substation: Materials and Construction Technology
Authors: Ji Guangchao , Ding Tao , Xiao Jianzhuang , Du Shupeng , Li Jun , Duan Zhenhua
Published: May 2019

Currently, 3D concrete printing technology is not yet able to print ready-mixed concrete with coarse aggregates. Based on an independently developed 3D printing construction equipment system and optimized concrete materials, a 3D concrete printer that can directly print ready-mixed concrete is developed. This paper introduces the whole 3D printing process for one power distribution substation in detail, including the printing equipment, key software, concrete preparation, printing process, and construction inspection. This investigation will provide valuable design and construction experience for the future construction of 3D concrete printing.
Parameter Study of Superabsorbent Polymers (SAPs) for Use in Durable Concrete Structures
Authors: De Meyst Laurence , Mannekens Els , Araújo Maria , Snoeck Didier , Van Tittelboom Kim , Van Vlierberghe Sandra , De Belie Nele
Published: May 2019

Superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) can be added to a concrete mixture to provide internal curing and reduce the risk for early-age shrinkage cracking. Hence, they can help to increase the overall durability of concrete structures. The type, swelling characteristics, kinetics of water release, amount and particle size of the SAPs will dictate their effectiveness for this purpose. In this paper, SAPs with different cross-linking degrees, particle sizes and amount of solubles are investigated. By varying these parameters, insight can be gained on the influence of each of these parameters on SAP properties such as the swelling capacity. In a next step, the SAPs can be implemented in mortar to assess their influence on mortar properties like workability, compressive strength or hydration kinetics. Based on these results, the ‘ideal’ SAP with tunable properties for a specific concrete application can be selected. For this purpose, an anionic SAP was synthesized with varying amounts of cross-linker and ground to particle sizes with d50 varying between 10 and 100 µm. The swelling capacity in demineralised water of 40 µm SAP particles increased with a decreasing degree of cross-linker from 66 g/g SAP with 1 mol% cross-linker to 270 g/g SAP in case of 0.15 mol% cross-linker, and was about three to four times larger than the swelling capacity in the prepared cement filtrate. The SAPs were tested for their effect on mortar workability, cement hydration kinetics and mechanical properties of the hardened mortar. With proper compensation for the absorbed water by the SAPs, the mortar workability was not negatively affected and the reduction in flow over the first two hours remained limited. The SAPs with the lowest swelling capacity, resulting in the smallest total amount of macro pores formed, showed the smallest negative effect on mortar compressive strength (a reduction of 23% compared to the reference after 28 days for an addition of 0.5 m% SAP) and a negligible effect on cement hydration. The difference in strength with the reference decreased as a function of mortar age. When using SAPs with particle sizes in the range of 10–100 µm, no significant differences between the studied particle sizes were found concerning the mortar properties. With the ease of upscaling in mind, the need to purify the SAPs and to remove the non-cross-linked soluble fraction was further investigated. It was shown that the solubles had no effect on the mortar properties, except for increasing the setting time with almost 100%.
The Correlation of Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of In-Situ Al-Mg2Si Cast Composite Processed by Equal Channel Angular Pressing
Authors: Chegini Mahdi , Shaeri Mohammad , Taghiabadi Reza , Chegini Sajjad , Djavanroodi Faramarz
Published: May 2019

In this paper, the effect of equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) on microstructure and mechanical properties of hypereutectic Al-20%Mg2Si and Al-15%Mg2Si, as well as hypoeutectic Al-10%Mg2Si composites has been investigated. After fabricating the composites by in-situ casting, the composites were processed using the ECAP process up to two passes at room temperature. Microstructural studies have been carried out using a field emission scanning electron microscopy equipped with an energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer. Mechanical properties were also documented using Vickers microhardness and shear punch tests. In the hypereutectic composites, a decrease in the average size of pro-eutectic Mg2Si (Mg2Sip) particles, breakages in eutectic networks, and lengthening of the Al (α) phase in direction of shear bands were observed after the ECAP process. For instance, the average size of Mg2Sip Particles in Al-20%Mg2Si composite reduced from 40 to 17 μm after 2 passes of ECAP. Furthermore, a uniform distribution of Mg2Sip particles was developed in the matrix. In hypoeutectic composite, the ECAP process caused a uniform distribution of eutectic Mg2Si (Mg2SiE) in the matrix that considered a favorable microstructure. Microhardness measurements and shear punch results showed an ascending trend after each pass of ECAP for all specimens. For example, microhardness and shear strength of Al-20%Mg2Si increased from 88 HV and 109 MPa to 119 HV and 249 MPa after two passes indicating 35% and 34% increments, respectively. Density and porosity calculations by Archimedes principle revealed that the density of the composites increased after two passes of ECAP due to the reduction of porosity.
Biomechanical Loading Comparison between Titanium and Unsintered Hydroxyapatite/Poly-L-Lactide Plate System for Fixation of Mandibular Subcondylar Fractures
Authors: Sukegawa Shintaro , Kanno Takahiro , Yamamoto Norio , Nakano Keisuke , Takabatake Kiyofumi , Kawai Hotaka , Nagatsuka Hitoshi , Furuki Yoshihiko
Published: May 2019

Osteosynthesis absorbable materials made of uncalcined and unsintered hydroxyapatite (u-HA) particles, poly-l-lactide (PLLA), and u-HA/PLLA are bioresorbable, and these plate systems have feasible bioactive osteoconductive capacities. However, their strength and stability for fixation in mandibular subcondylar fractures remain unclear. This in vitro study aimed to assess the biomechanical strength of u-HA/PLLA bioresorbable plate systems after internal fixation of mandibular subcondylar fractures. Tensile and shear strength were measured for each u-HA/PLLA and titanium plate system. To evaluate biomechanical behavior, 20 hemimandible replicas were divided into 10 groups, each comprising a titanium plate and a bioresorbable plate. A linear load was applied anteroposteriorly and lateromedially to each group to simulate the muscular forces in mandibular condylar fractures. All samples were analyzed for each displacement load and the displacement obtained by the maximum load. Tensile and shear strength of the u-HA/PLLA plate were each approximately 45% of those of the titanium plates. Mechanical resistance was worst in the u-HA/PLLA plate initially loaded anteroposteriorly. Titanium plates showed the best mechanical resistance during lateromedial loading. Notably, both plates showed similar resistance when a lateromedially load was applied. In the biomechanical evaluation of mandibular condylar fracture treatment, the u-HA/PLLA plates had sufficiently high resistance in the two-plate fixation method.
Mutual Inductance and Coupling Effects in Acoustic Resonant Unit Cells
Authors: Ding Changlin , Dong Yibao , Song Kun , Zhai Shilong , Wang Yuanbo , Zhao Xiaopeng
Published: May 2019

We present an acoustic metamaterial (AMM) consisting of a dumbbell-shaped split hollow sphere (DSSHS). Transmission results of experiments and simulations both presented a transmitted dip at the resonant frequency of AMM, which demonstrated its negative modulus property. As the two split holes in the DSSHS had strong coupling effects for the acoustic medium in the local region, the dip could be simply manipulated by tuning the distance between the split holes. When the distance was large enough, the mutual inductance tended to disappear, and a weak interaction existed in the structure. According to the property of weak interaction, a multiband AMM and a broadband AMM with a negative modulus could be achieved by arraying DSSHS clusters with different distances. Furthermore, mutual inductance and coupling in DSSHS reinforced the local resonance, and this kind of cell could be used to design the acoustic metasurface to abnormally control the refractive waves.