bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simplified Head-to-Tail Cyclic Polypeptides as Biomaterial-Associated Antimicrobials with Endotoxin Neutralizing and Anti-Inflammatory Capabilities
Authors: Dong Na , Wang Chensi , Li Xinran , Guo Yuming , Li Xiaoli
Published: November 2019

The therapeutic application of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), a potential type of peptide-based biomaterial, is impeded by their poor antimicrobial activity and potential cytotoxicity as a lack of understanding of their structure–activity relationships. In order to comprehensively enhance the antibacterial and clinical application potency of AMPs, a rational approach was applied to design amphiphilic peptides, including head-to-tail cyclic, linear and D-proline antimicrobial peptides using the template (IR)nP(IR)nP (n = 1, 2 and 3). Results showed that these amphiphilic peptides demonstrated antimicrobial activity in a size-dependent manner and that cyclic peptide OIR3, which contained three repeating units (IR)3, had greater antimicrobial potency and cell selectivity than liner peptide IR3, DIR3 with D-Pro and gramicidin S (GS). Surface plasmon resonance and endotoxin neutralization assays indicated that OIR3 had significant endotoxin neutralization capabilities, which suggested that the effects of OIR3 were mediated by binding to lipopolysaccharides (LPS). Using fluorescence spectrometry and electron microscopy, we found that OIR3 strongly promoted membrane disruption and thereby induced cell lysis. In addition, an LPS-induced inflammation assay showed that OIR3 inhibited the pro-inflammatory factor TNF-α in RAW264.7 cells. OIR3 was able to reduce oxazolone-induced skin inflammation in allergic dermatitis mouse model via the inhibition of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 mRNA expression. Collectively, the engineered head-to-tail cyclic peptide OIR3 was considerable potential candidate for use as a clinical therapeutic for the treatment of bacterial infections and skin inflammation.
Quantitative Trait Module-Based Genetic Analysis of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Yuan Shaoxun , Li Haitao , Xie Jianming , Sun Xiao
Published: November 2019

The pathological features of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) first appear in the medial temporal lobe and then in other brain structures with the development of the disease. In this work, we investigated the association between genetic loci and subcortical structure volumes of AD on 393 samples in the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) cohort. Brain subcortical structures were clustered into modules using Pearson’s correlation coefficient of volumes across all samples. Module volumes were used as quantitative traits to identify not only the main effect loci but also the interactive effect loci for each module. Thirty-five subcortical structures were clustered into five modules, each corresponding to a particular brain structure/area, including the limbic system (module I), the corpus callosum (module II), thalamus–cerebellum–brainstem–pallidum (module III), the basal ganglia neostriatum (module IV), and the ventricular system (module V). Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment results indicate that the gene annotations of the five modules were distinct, with few overlaps between different modules. We identified several main effect loci and interactive effect loci for each module. All these loci are related to the function of module structures and basic biological processes such as material transport and signal transduction.
A Combined Linkage and GWAS Analysis Identifies QTLs Linked to Soybean Seed Protein and Oil Content
Authors: Zhang Tengfei , Wu Tingting , Wang Liwei , Jiang Bingjun , Zhen Caixin , Yuan Shan , Hou Wensheng , Wu Cunxiang , Han Tianfu , Sun Shi
Published: November 2019

Soybean is an excellent source of vegetable protein and edible oil. Understanding the genetic basis of protein and oil content will improve the breeding programs for soybean. Linkage analysis and genome-wide association study (GWAS) tools were combined to detect quantitative trait loci (QTL) that are associated with protein and oil content in soybean. Three hundred and eight recombinant inbred lines (RILs) containing 3454 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers and 200 soybean accessions, including 94,462 SNPs and indels, were applied to identify QTL intervals and significant SNP loci. Intervals on chromosomes 1, 15, and 20 were correlated with both traits, and QTL qPro15-1, qPro20-1, and qOil5-1 reproducibly correlated with large phenotypic variations. SNP loci on chromosome 20 that overlapped with qPro20-1 were reproducibly connected to both traits by GWAS (p < 10−4). Twenty-five candidate genes with putative roles in protein and/or oil metabolisms within two regions (qPro15-1, qPro20-1) were identified, and eight of these genes showed differential expressions in parent lines during late reproductive growth stages, consistent with a role in controlling protein and oil content. The new well-defined QTL should significantly improve molecular breeding programs, and the identified candidate genes may help elucidate the mechanisms of protein and oil biosynthesis.
Trypanocidal Mechanism of Action and in silico Studies of p-Coumaric Acid Derivatives
Authors: Lopes Susiany P. , Castillo Yunierkis P. , Monteiro Marilia L. , Menezes Ramon R. P. P. B. de , Almeida Reinaldo N. , Martins Alice M. C. , Sousa Damião P. de
Published: November 2019

Trypanosoma species are responsible for chronic and systemic infections in millions of people around the world, compromising life quality, and family and government budgets. This group of diseases is classified as neglected and causes thousands of deaths each year. In the present study, the trypanocidal effect of a set of 12 ester derivatives of the p-coumaric acid was tested. Of the test derivatives, pentyl p-coumarate (7) (5.16 ± 1.28 μM; 61.63 ± 28.59 μM) presented the best respective trypanocidal activities against both epimastigote and trypomastigote forms. Flow cytometry analysis revealed an increase in the percentage of 7-AAD labeled cells, an increase in reactive oxygen species, and a loss of mitochondrial membrane potential; indicating cell death by necrosis. This mechanism was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy, noting the loss of cellular integrity. Molecular docking data indicated that of the chemical compounds tested, compound 7 potentially acts through two mechanisms of action, whether by links with aldo-keto reductases (AKR) or by comprising cruzain (CZ) which is one of the key Trypanosoma cruzi development enzymes. The results indicate that for both enzymes, van der Waals interactions between ligand and receptors favor binding and hydrophobic interactions with the phenolic and aliphatic parts of the ligand. The study demonstrates that p-coumarate derivatives are promising molecules for developing new prototypes with antiprotozoal activity.
Electroacupuncture Alleviates Paclitaxel-Induced Peripheral Neuropathic Pain in Rats via Suppressing TLR4 Signaling and TRPV1 Upregulation in Sensory Neurons
Authors: Li Yuanyuan , Yin Chengyu , Li Xiaojie , Liu Boyu , Wang Jie , Zheng Xiaoli , Shao Xiaomei , Liang Yi , Du Junying , Fang Jianqiao , Liu Boyi
Published: November 2019

Paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy is a common adverse effect during paclitaxel treatment resulting in sensory abnormalities and neuropathic pain during chemotherapy and in cancer survivors. Conventional therapies are usually ineffective and possess adverse effects. Here, we examined the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) on a rat model of paclitaxel-induced neuropathic pain and related mechanisms. EA robustly and persistently alleviated paclitaxel-induced pain hypersensitivities. Mechanistically, TLR4 (Toll-Like Receptor 4) and downstream signaling MyD88 (Myeloid Differentiation Primary Response 88) and TRPV1 (Transient Receptor Potential Vallinoid 1) were upregulated in dorsal root ganglion (DRGs) of paclitaxel-treated rats, whereas EA reduced their overexpression. Ca2+ imaging further indicated that TRPV1 channel activity was enhanced in DRG neurons of paclitaxel-treated rats whereas EA suppressed the enhanced TRPV1 channel activity. Pharmacological blocking of TRPV1 mimics the analgesic effects of EA on the pain hypersensitivities, whereas capsaicin reversed EA’s effect. Spinal astrocytes and microglia were activated in paclitaxel-treated rats, whereas EA reduced the activation. These results demonstrated that EA alleviates paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathic pain via mechanisms possibly involving suppressing TLR4 signaling and TRPV1 upregulation in DRG neurons, which further result in reduced spinal glia activation. Our work supports EA as a potential alternative therapy for paclitaxel-induced neuropathic pain.
Impact of Glucoraphanin-Mediated Activation of Nrf2 on Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease with a Focus on Mitochondrial Dysfunction
Authors: Xu Liang , Nagata Naoto , Ota Tsuguhito
Published: November 2019

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common disease in Western nations and ranges in severity from steatosis to steatohepatitis (NASH). NAFLD is a genetic-environmental-metabolic stress-related disease of unclear pathogenesis. NAFLD is triggered by caloric overconsumption and physical inactivity, which lead to insulin resistance and oxidative stress. A growing body of evidence indicates that mitochondrial dysfunction plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of NAFLD. Mitochondrial dysfunction not only promotes fat accumulation, but also leads to generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation, resulting in oxidative stress in hepatocytes. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is an important modulator of antioxidant signaling that serves as a primary cellular defense against the cytotoxic effects of oxidative stress. The pharmacological induction of Nrf2 ameliorates obesity-associated insulin resistance and NAFLD in a mouse model. Sulforaphane and its precursor glucoraphanin are derived from broccoli sprouts and are the most potent natural Nrf2 inducers—they may protect mitochondrial function, thus suppressing the development of NASH. In this review, we briefly describe the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathogenesis of NASH and the effects of glucoraphanin on its development.
Structure of Staphylococcal Enterotoxin N: Implications for Binding Properties to Its Cellular Proteins
Authors: Zeng Chi , Liu Zhaoxin , Han Zhenggang
Published: November 2019

Staphylococcus aureus strains produce a unique family of immunostimulatory exotoxins termed as bacterial superantigens (SAgs), which cross-link major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC II) molecule and T-cell receptor (TCR) to stimulate large numbers of T cells at extremely low concentrations. SAgs are associated with food poisoning and toxic shock syndrome. To date, 26 genetically distinct staphylococcal SAgs have been reported. This study reports the first X-ray structure of newly characterized staphylococcal enterotoxin N (SEN). SEN possesses the classical two domain architecture that includes an N-terminal oligonucleotide-binding fold and a C-terminal β-grasp domain. Amino acid and structure alignments revealed that several critical amino acids that are proposed to be responsible for MHC II and TCR molecule engagements are variable in SEN, suggesting that SEN may adopt a different binding mode to its cellular receptors. This work helps better understand the mechanisms of action of SAgs.
A Study on Trend Analysis of Applicants Based on Patent Classification Systems
Authors: Chae Soohyeon , Gim Jangwon
Published: November 2019

In recent times, with the development of science and technology, new technologies have been rapidly emerging, and innovators are making efforts to acquire intellectual property rights to preserve their competitive advantage as well as to enhance innovative competitiveness. As a result, the number of patents being acquired increases exponentially every year, and the social and economic ripple effects of developed technologies are also increasing. Now, innovators are focusing on evaluating existing technologies to develop more valuable ones. However, existing patent analysis studies mainly focus on discovering core technologies amongst the technologies derived from patents or analyzing trend changes for specific techniques; the analysis of innovators who develop such core technologies is insufficient. In this paper, we propose a model for analyzing the technical inventions of applicants based on patent classification systems such as international patent classification (IPC) and cooperative patent classification (CPC). Through the proposed model, the common invention patterns of applicants are extracted and used to analyze their technical inventions. The proposed model shows that patent classification systems can be used to extract the trends in applicants’ technological inventions and to track changes in their innovative patterns.
Decision Diagram Algorithms to Extract Minimal Cutsets of Finite Degradation Models
Authors: Rauzy Antoine , Yang Liu
Published: November 2019

In this article, we propose decision diagram algorithms to extract minimal cutsets of finite degradation models. Finite degradation models generalize and unify combinatorial models used to support probabilistic risk, reliability and safety analyses (fault trees, attack trees, reliability block diagrams…). They formalize a key idea underlying all risk assessment methods: states of the models represent levels of degradation of the system under study. Although these states cannot be totally ordered, they have a rich algebraic structure that can be exploited to extract minimal cutsets of models, which represent the most relevant scenarios of failure. The notion of minimal cutsets we introduce here generalizes the one defined for fault trees. We show how algorithms used to calculate minimal cutsets can be lifted up to finite degradation models, thanks to a generic decomposition theorem and an extension of the binary decision diagrams technology. We discuss the implementation and performance issues. Finally, we illustrate the interest of the proposed technology by means of the use case stemmed from the oil and gas industry.
Some Similarity Measures for Interval-Valued Picture Fuzzy Sets and Their Applications in Decision Making
Authors: Liu Peide , Munir Muhammad , Mahmood Tahir , Ullah Kifayat
Published: November 2019

Similarity measures, distance measures and entropy measures are some common tools considered to be applied to some interesting real-life phenomena including pattern recognition, decision making, medical diagnosis and clustering. Further, interval-valued picture fuzzy sets (IVPFSs) are effective and useful to describe the fuzzy information. Therefore, this manuscript aims to develop some similarity measures for IVPFSs due to the significance of describing the membership grades of picture fuzzy set in terms of intervals. Several types cosine similarity measures, cotangent similarity measures, set-theoretic and grey similarity measures, four types of dice similarity measures and generalized dice similarity measures are developed. All the developed similarity measures are validated, and their properties are demonstrated. Two well-known problems, including mineral field recognition problems and multi-attribute decision making problems, are solved using the newly developed similarity measures. The superiorities of developed similarity measures over the similarity measures of picture fuzzy sets, interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy sets and intuitionistic fuzzy sets are demonstrated through a comparison and numerical examples.
Immuno-Ultrastructural Localization and Putative Multiplication Sites of Huanglongbing Bacterium in Asian Citrus Psyllid Diaphorina citri
Authors: Ammar El-Desouky , Achor Diann , Levy Amit
Published: November 2019

Huanglongbing, the most destructive citrus disease worldwide, is caused by the bacterium ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’ (CLas) and is vectored by the Asian citrus psyllid (ACP). Very little is known about the form and distribution of CLas in infected psyllids, especially at the ultrastructural level. Here, we examined these aspects by transmission electron microscopy, combined with immunogold labeling. In CLas-exposed ACP adults, the CLas bacterial cells were found to be pleomorphic taking tubular, spherical, or flask-shaped forms, some of which seemed to divide further. Small or large aggregates of CLas were found in vacuolated cytoplasmic pockets of most ACP organs and tissues examined, including the midgut, filter chamber, hindgut, Malpighian tubules, and secretory cells of the salivary glands, in addition to fat tissues, epidermis, muscle, hemocytes, neural tissues, bacteriome, and walls of the female spermatheca and oviduct. Large aggregates of CLas were found outside the midgut within the filter chamber and between the sublayers of the basal lamina of the hindgut and Malpighian tubules. Novel intracytoplasmic structures that we hypothesized as ‘putative CLas multiplication sites’ were found in the cells of the midgut, salivary glands, and other tissues in CLas-exposed ACP. These structures, characterized by containing a granular matrix and closely packed bacterial cells, were unbound by membranes and were frequently associated with rough endoplasmic reticulum. Our results point to the close association between CLas and its psyllid vector, and provide support for a circulative-propagative mode of transmission.
Compatibility and Efficacy of the Parasitoid Eretmocerus hayati and the Entomopathogenic Fungus Cordyceps javanica for Biological Control of Whitefly Bemisia tabaci
Authors: Ou Da , Ren Li-Mei , -Liu Yuan , Ali Shaukat , Wang Xing-Min , Ahmed Muhammad Z. , Qiu Bao-Li
Published: November 2019

Biological control is an effective method for whitefly management compared to the potential problems caused by chemical control, including environmental pollution and the development of resistance. Combined use of insect parasitoids and entomopathogenic fungi has shown high efficiency in Bemisia tabaci control. Here, we assessed the impacts of an entomopathogenic fungus, Cordyceps javanica, on the parasitism rate of a dominant whitefly parasitoid, Eretmocerus hayati, and for the first time also compared their separate and combined potential in the suppression of B. tabaci under semi-field conditions. Six conidial concentrations of C. javanica (1 × 103, 1 × 104, 1 × 105, 1 × 106, 1 × 107 and 1 × 108 conidia/mL) were used to assess its pathogenicity to the pupae and adults of E. hayati. Results showed that the mortality of E. hayati increased with higher concentrations of C. javanica, but these higher concentrations of fungus had low pathogenicity to both the E. hayati pupae (2.00–28.00% mortality) and adults (2.67–34.00% mortality) relative to their pathogenicity to B. tabaci nymphs (33.33–92.68%). Bioassay results indicated that C. javanica was harmless (LC50 = 3.91 × 1010) and slightly harmful (LC50 = 5.56 × 109) to the pupae and adults of E. hayati respectively on the basis of IOBC criteria, and that E. hayati could parasitize all nymphal instars of B. tabaci that were pretreated with C. javanica, with its rate of parasitism being highest on second-instar nymphs (62.03%). Interestingly, the parasitoids from second and third-instar B. tabaci nymphs infected with C. javanica had progeny with increased longevity and developmental periods. Moreover, experimental data from 15 day semi-field studies indicate that combined application of C. javanica and E. hayati suppresses B. tabaci with higher efficiency than individual applications of both agents. Therefore, combined applications of C. javanica (1 × 108 conidia/mL) and E. hayati is a more effective and compatible biological control strategy for management of B. tabaci than using either of them individually.
Cross-Talk between Lipoproteins and Inflammation: The Role of Microvesicles
Authors: Chiva-Blanch Gemma , Badimon Lina
Published: November 2019

Atherothrombosis is the principal underlying cause of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Microvesicles (MV) are small blebs originated by an outward budding at the cell plasma membranes, which are released in normal conditions. However, MV release is increased in pathophysiologic conditions such as CVD. Low density lipoprotein (LDL) and MV contribute to atherothrombosis onset and progression by promoting inflammation and leukocyte recruitment to injured endothelium, as well as by increasing thrombosis and plaque vulnerability. Moreover, (oxidized)LDL induces MV release and vice-versa, perpetuating endothelium injury leading to CVD progression. Therefore, MV and lipoproteins exhibit common features, which should be considered in the interpretation of their respective roles in the pathophysiology of CVD. Understanding the pathways implicated in this process will aid in developing novel therapeutic approaches against atherothrombosis.
Impact of Antiretroviral Therapy on the Risk of Recurrence in HIV-1 Infected Patients with Kaposi Sarcoma: A Multicenter Cohort Experience
Authors: Colafigli Manuela , Ciccullo Arturo , Borghetti Alberto , Fanti Iuri , Melis Federico , Modica Sara , Uccella Ilaria , Bonadies Antonio , Ferraresi Virginia , Anzalone Enza , Pennica Alfredo , Migliano Emilia , Rossetti Barbara , Madeddu Giordano , Cauda Roberto , Cristaudo Antonio , Di Giambenedetto Simona , Latini Alessandra
Published: November 2019

Kaposi sarcoma (KS) remains a relevant malignancy in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients with a non-standardized management; despite past suggestions that ritonavir-boosted protease inhibitor (bPI)-based regimens could be preferable, no combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) regimen was demonstrated to outperform the others and the impact of new drugs, drug classes or paradigms was never investigated nor proven better than previous therapeutic regimes. In order to do this, we retrospectively collected data regarding HIV-infected patients with a diagnosis of KS last seen in six Italian centers after 1 January 2013. A total of 104 KS cases in 99 patients was analyzed for 945.34 patient-year follow-up (PYFU). Twenty-six patients had visceral localizations. Thirty-three patients were treated with chemotherapy, four with electrochemotherapy, and 12 with α-interferon (α-IFN). At censor, 22% received a bPI-based, 14% a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI)-based, and 28% an integrase inhibitor (INI)-based standard cART, 24% a less drug regimen and 12% a mega-cART. Twelve recurrence episodes were observed in seven patients for an incidence of 1.27 per 100 PYFU. Two patients with no evidence of recurrence episodes died for other reasons. In our experience, KS recurrence episodes were infrequent. Despite the increasing use of new antiretroviral drug classes and new treatment paradigms, no excess of recurrence episodes was observed in patients receiving such cART regimens.
Safety and Effectiveness of Shoulder Arthroplasties in Spain: A Systematic Review
Authors: Arias-de la Torre Jorge , Garcia Xavier , Smith Kayla , Romero-Tamarit Arantxa , Puigdomenech Elisa , Muñoz-Ortiz Laura , Evans Jonathan P. , Martín Vicente , Molina Antonio J. , Torrens Carles , Pons-Cabrafiga Miquel , Pallisó Francesc , Valderas Jose María , Espallargues Mireia
Published: November 2019

The effectiveness and safety of shoulder arthroplasties in the general context of a Spanish patient population remains unclear. The aim of this study was to ascertain both the effectiveness and safety of primary shoulder arthroplasties and the prosthesis types used in Spain. A systematic review of all the available literature evaluating the effectiveness and safety of primary shoulder arthroplasties in Spain was performed. A narrative synthesis was performed, and evidence tables were created in four dimensions: study design, arthroplasty characteristics, safety, and effectiveness. Orthopaedic Data Evaluation Panel (ODEP) scores were used to evaluate prosthesis types. Twenty-one studies were selected that included a total of 1293 arthroplasties. The most common indication was fractures, while the prosthesis most frequently used was the Delta Xtend (ODEP 10A). The most common complication was scapular notching. Prosthesis revision rate was approximately 6% for follow-ups between 12 and 79 months. In addition, significant improvements were observed in the Constant–Murley test score after the intervention. Currently in Spain, shoulder arthroplasty can be considered a safe and effective procedure with functional recovery and pain reduction for eligible patients with humeral fracture, rotator cuff arthropathy, fracture sequelae and malunion of the proximal humerus, and degenerative disease. Future longitudinal research and population-based studies could serve to confirm these results and identify points of improvement.
The Influence of Histologic Inflammation on the Improvement of Liver Stiffness Values Over 1 and 3 Years
Authors: Yoo Jeong-Ju , Seo Yeon Seok , Kim Young Seok , Jeong Soung Won , Jang Jae Young , Suh Sang Jun , Yim Hyung Joon , Suk Ki Tae , Kim Dong Joon , Han Kwang-Hyub , Kim Seung Up , Lee Bora , Kim Sang Gyune
Published: November 2019

Background: Transient elastography is now an indispensable tool for estimating liver fibrosis. Although many clinical factors other than fibrosis itself are known to affect liver stiffness (LS) values, it is still not yet clear what factors are related to improving LS values. The aim of this study was to find out how baseline histologic inflammation influences LS values and how much this inflammation affects improvement in LS values over time, regardless of actual fibrosis content. Methods: This retrospective study included 678 consecutive patients who underwent liver biopsy and sequential LS assessment from 2006 to 2015 at six tertiary hospitals in Korea. Linear regression analysis was used to evaluate how improvement of LS value can be associated with other factors besides fibrosis content. Results: Basal LS values increased with increasing inflammation in the same fibrosis stage. Degree of inflammation influenced the baseline LS value in a proportional manner (beta coefficient (BE), 6.476; 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.24–10.72; p = 0.003). Moreover, histologic inflammation affected the change in LS value significantly. Higher inflammation grade at baseline was a significant predictor for an improvement in LS value, regardless of the fibrosis stage (BE, −8.581; 95% CI, −15.715–−1.447; p = 0.019). In a subgroup analysis of patients who received repeated liver biopsies, the results showed a similar tendency. Conclusions: The LS value is affected by the degree of inflammation even at a low ALT level. Furthermore, baseline histologic inflammation has a significant impact on the improvement of LS values over time. Therefore, baseline inflammation should be taken into consideration when interpreting an improvement in LS value.
Family and School Contexts as Predictors of Suicidal Behavior among Adolescents: The Role of Depression and Anxiety
Authors: Ruiz-Robledillo Nicolás , Ferrer-Cascales Rosario , Albaladejo-Blázquez Natalia , Sánchez-SanSegundo Miriam
Published: November 2019

Suicide is the highest external cause of death in the majority of developed countries. In adolescents, the prevalence of suicide has increased significantly in recent years, becoming a serious public health concern. The main aim of the present study is to characterize suicidal behavior, and to evaluate the relationship between family and school contexts and suicidal behavior through the possible mediating effects of depression and anxiety. The design of the study is cross-sectional. The sample was composed of 1386 Spanish adolescents from 14 high-schools. Suicidal behavior, anxiety, depression, family function, and school climate were evaluated through self-reported questionnaires. The results obtained show a significant association between adaptive family function and a positive school climate with low levels of depression, anxiety, and suicidal behavior. Mediation analyses revealed a significant full mediating effect of depression on family function and school climate with suicidal behavior. No significant mediating effects were found for anxiety. The results obtained underline the importance of family and school as protective factors for the prevention of suicidal behavior in adolescents, through the main mediating role of depression. Future studies should evaluate the mechanisms underlying the effects of family function and school climate on depression, and therefore, on suicidal behavior in adolescents.
Early Retinal Flow Changes after Vitreoretinal Surgery in Idiopathic Epiretinal Membrane Using Swept Source Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography
Authors: Mastropasqua Rodolfo , D’Aloisio Rossella , Viggiano Pasquale , Borrelli Enrico , Iafigliola Carla , Di Nicola Marta , Aharrh-Gnama Agbéanda , Di Marzio Guido , Toto Lisa , Mariotti Cesare , Carpineto Paolo
Published: November 2019

(1) Background: The aim of this observational cross-sectional work was to investigate early retinal vascular changes in patients undergoing idiopathic epiretinal membrane (iERM) surgery using swept source optical coherence tomography angiography (SS-OCTA); (2) Methods: 24 eyes of 24 patients who underwent vitrectomy with internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling were evaluated pre- and postoperatively using SS-OCTA system (PLEX Elite 9000, Carl Zeiss Meditec Inc., Dublin, CA, USA). For each eye, five 6x6-mm OCTA volume scans were acquired by two observers independently. The en face images of superficial capillary plexus (SCP) were then exported to imageJ and a semi-automated algorithm was used for subsequent quantitative analysis. Perfusion density (PD), vessel length density (VLD), vessel diameter index (VDI) and vessel tortuosity (VT) of SCP were evaluated in both the parafoveal (2.5 mm diameter) and perifoveal areas (5.5 mm diameter); (3) Results: At OCTA analysis statistically significant differences were found between controls and diseased eyes for all parameters in parafoveal and perifoveal regions (p < 0.001; p < 0.05) except for perifoveal VLD. During 6-month follow up, both anatomical/perfusion and functional parameters showed a statistically significant improvement if compared to preoperative values. In detail, at one-month post vitrectomy, VLD and VT significantly changed in parafoveal region (p = 0.043; p = 0.045), while PD and VDI showed a trend of increase in both parafoveal and perifoveal region. At 6 months after surgery, PD, VLD and VT of parafoveal region significantly improved (p = 0.021, p = 0.018, p = 0.047 respectively). (4) Conclusions: SS-OCTA provides a quantitative and qualitative analysis of the superficial capillary plexus allowing for early vascular changes assessment after vitrectomy with iERM and ILM peeling.
Effect of Bladder Neck Preservation on Long-Term Urinary Continence after Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kim Jong Won , Kim Do Kyung , Ahn Hyun Kyu , Jung Hae Do , Lee Joo Yong , Cho Kang Su
Published: November 2019

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of bladder neck preservation (BNP) on long-term urinary continence after robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP). We systematically searched the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases to identify studies that assessed the difference in urinary continence and oncologic outcomes between patients who underwent RALP with BNP and those who underwent RALP without BNP. Four trials (1880 cases with BNP, 727 controls without BNP) were considered suitable for meta-analysis. BNP was associated with significantly better urinary continence outcomes at 3–4 months (odds ratio (OR), 2.88; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.52–5.48; p = 0.001), 12 months (OR, 2.03; 95% CI, 1.10–3.74; p = 0.02), and 24 months (OR, 3.23; 95% CI, 1.13–9.20; p = 0.03) after RALP. There was no difference in the rate of overall positive surgical margin (PSM) (OR, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.72–1.39; p = 0.99) and that of PSM at the prostate base (OR, 0.49; 95% CI, 0.21–1.13; p = 0.09) between the two groups. The BNP technique during RALP leads to early return of urinary continence and long-term urinary continence without compromising the oncologic outcomes.
Nematode Autotomy Requires Molting and Entails Tissue Healing without Obvious Regeneration
Authors: Hodgkin Jonathan
Published: November 2019

Autotomy in C. elegans, which results in the severing of the body into two fragments, has been observed as a response to late larval worm-star formation after exposure to a bacterial surface pathogen. It was found that autotomy can occur in both hermaphroditic and gonochoristic nematode species, and during either the L3 or the L4 molt. Severing was hypothesized to be driven by a ‘balloon-twisting’ mechanism during molting but was found to be independent of lethargus-associated flipping. Extensive healing and apparent tissue fusion were seen at the site of scission. No obvious regeneration of lost body parts was seen in either L4 or adult truncated worms. A variety of mutants defective in processes of cell death, healing, regeneration, responses to damage, stress or pathogens were found to be competent to autotomize. Mutants specifically defective in autotomy have yet to be found. Autotomy may represent a modification of the essential normal process of molting.
Transitional Flow on Model Propellers and Their Influence on Relative Rotative Efficiency
Authors: Li Da-Qing , Lindell Per , Werner Sofia
Published: November 2019

Unexpected low value of the relative rotative efficiency ηR is sometimes noted when scaling the towing tank model-test result with the ITTC-78 method to obtain the propulsive efficiency factors of propellers. The paper explains the causes of this phenomenon. The boundary layer state of three propellers was studied by a paint test and a RANS method. The paint tests showed that the propellers in behind conditions at low Reynolds number (Rn) are covered mainly with laminar flow, which is different from open water tests conducted at a high Rn. Apart from that a moderate difference in Rn between the open water and the self-propulsion test may lead to a low ηR value, the paper points out that flow separation in behind conditions could be another significant reason for the drop of ηR for some propellers. Therefore, two factors will lead to an unexpected decrease of ηR: (1) A slightly lower open water torque interpolated from an open water test carried out at a high Rn and (2) a slightly higher torque in a self-propulsion test due to laminar flow separation near the trailing edge. The phenomenon is caused by the Rn scaled effect and closely associated with design philosophy like the blade section profile, the chord length, and chordwise load distribution.
Potential Impact of MicroRNA Gene Polymorphisms in the Pathogenesis of Diabetes and Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Elfaki Imadeldin , Mir Rashid , Mir Mohammad Muzaffar , AbuDuhier Faisel M , Babakr Abdullatif Taha , Barnawi Jameel
Published: November 2019

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenous, small (18–23 nucleotides), non-coding RNA molecules. They regulate the posttranscriptional expression of their target genes. MiRNAs control vital physiological processes such as metabolism, development, differentiation, cell cycle and apoptosis. The control of the gene expression by miRNAs requires efficient binding between the miRNA and their target mRNAs. Genome-wide association studies (GWASs) have suggested the association of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with certain diseases in various populations. Gene polymorphisms of miRNA target sites have been implicated in diseases such as cancers, diabetes, cardiovascular and Parkinson’s disease. Likewise, gene polymorphisms of miRNAs have been reported to be associated with diseases. In this review, we discuss the SNPs in miRNA genes that have been associated with diabetes and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in different populations. We also discuss briefly the potential underlining mechanisms through which these SNPs increase the risk of developing these diseases.
Double Taxation Treaties as a Catalyst for Trade Developments: A Comparative Study of Vietnam’s Relations with ASEAN and EU Member States
Authors: Pham Anh D. , Pham Ha , Ly Kim Cuong
Published: November 2019

Employing a panel gravity model and Generalized Least Squares (GLS) estimation technique, this study documents the effect of double taxation treaties on the bilateral trade of Vietnam with ASEAN member states, thereby making an extensive comparison with its EU partner countries. Our findings indicate the significant contributions of the tax treaties to Vietnam’s trade performance, not exclusively with ASEAN but also with EU partner countries. Nevertheless, under some circumstances, the conclusion of tax treaties seems ineffective in strengthening export capacity or narrowing trade deficits for Vietnam. This is primarily due to the unidirectional movement of trade associated with tax treaty conditions, viz., imports from the advanced economies into Vietnam. Besides, the role of tax treaties as a dynamism of Vietnam’s export growth remains opaque during recent years.
Exploratory Research for the Improvement of the Teaching of Spanish as a Second Language in a Spanish Public Center
Authors: Asensio Pastor Margarita Isabel , Carmona García Juan Pablo
Published: November 2019

This paper is part of the R&D project DIPURE (El Discurso Público sobre los Refugiados en España in English Public Discourse on Refugees in Spain) and it is one of the research lines of the research group “Andalusian Circle of Applied Linguistics, HUM-194” on the study of teaching Spanish as a second language (SSL) for immigrants and refugees. Its objective is to establish a profile of Spanish second language (SL) students at the Official School of Languages (OSL). To meet this objective, we carried out an exploratory study based on mixed quantitative–qualitative methods, including, among other methods, participant observation and a Likert-type questionnaire used with students of the OSL in Granada, from level A1 to B2. The data obtained has allowed us to reflect on the migration process in Spain and on the work in the classrooms of a public center with students who study Spanish as a second language—their learning beliefs, needs, and attitudes, as well as didactic preferences. The information obtained is envisaged to improve the teaching practice of Spanish as a host language in a public educational context.
Investigations of the Friction Losses of Different Engine Concepts. Part 2: Sub-Assembly Resolved Friction Loss Comparison of Three Engines
Authors: Knauder Christoph , Allmaier Hannes , Sander David E. , Sams Theodor
Published: November 2019

In this work, friction loss investigations and comparisons of three different four-cylinder engines for passenger car applications are presented, using a recently developed combined approach. By merging extensive experimental with reliable and predictive journal bearing simulation results, a sub-assembly-resolved friction loss analysis of the piston group, crankshaft journal bearings and valve train is conducted for all three engines. The engines have been chosen individually based on their specific power output and crank train geometry. The measurement program covers a wide range of corresponding engine operation points (identical speed, load and thermal boundary conditions). In addition, the investigations are carried out for different engine media supply temperatures ranging from 70 ∘ C to 110 ∘ C for a comprehensive consideration of the friction losses at reduced lubricant viscosity. For reasons of comparability, all investigations conducted in this work have been carried out using the same modern SAE 5W30 lubricant. This is done to exclude influences from different lubricant properties which may have significant effects on the tribological behaviour of the engines’ sub-assemblies. While the diesel engine showed a friction reduction potential over the entire engine operation range when increasing the engine media supply temperatures, the gasoline engines showed a different behaviour. For the gasoline engines, disadvantages arise especially at low engine speeds. By using the developed combined approach, it was possible to assign mixed lubrication regimes at the valve train systems and at the piston groups.
Pilbara Craton Soil as A Possible Lunar Soil Simulant for Civil Engineering Applications
Authors: Kobaka Janusz , Katzer Jacek , Zarzycki Paweł K.
Published: November 2019

Recent fast development in lunar exploration exposed a lack of lunar soil simulant (LSS) fit for civil engineering applications. Permanent human presence on the Moon will be associated with significant construction efforts. Adequate technologies and building materials have to be developed and tested prior to setting the actual building site on the Moon. Current LSSs were created for non-civil engineering purposes, thus they are very expensive and available in limited amounts. In the paper, the authors proved that Pilbara Craton soil is a suitable material for the creation of an affordable LSS for civil engineering applications. The main tool of the conducted study was principal component analysis (PCA).
Stochastic Multi-Molecular Modeling Method of Organic-Modified Ceramics in Two-Photon Induced Photopolymerization
Authors: Lin Jieqiong , Liu Peng , Jing Xian , Lu Mingming , Wang Kaixuan , Sun Jie
Published: November 2019

Organic-modified ceramics (Ormocer) are an outstanding class of hybrid materials due to the fact of their various excellent properties, and they have been successfully used in two-photon polymerization microfabrication fields. A series of functional devices has been fabricated and widely used in aerospace, information science, biomedicine, and other fields. However, quantization of intermolecular energy during the fabrication process is still a difficult problem. A stochastic multi-molecular modeling method is proposed in this paper. The detailed molecular-interaction energies during the photon polymerization of Ormocer were obtained by molecular dynamics analysis. The established molecular model was verified by comparing the simulated shrinkage results with commercial calibrated ones. This work is expected to provide a reference for optimizing the fabrication of organically modified ceramics and reducing photoresist shrinkage in two-photon polymerization.
Experimental Research on Electromechanical Properties of Multiple Contact Surfaces Copper Bulks under Normal Cyclic Loading and Variable Temperature
Authors: Liu Limei , Yan Jiangtao , Wang Keyang , Liu Yang , Ta Wurui , Gao Yuanwen
Published: November 2019

Contact resistance is key for stable operation of electrical contact equipment, and can also be extensively applied. For Tokomak devices in fusion reactors, contact resistance of the superconductor magnet system strongly relates to the alternating current (AC) loss of the cable; the cable is assembled using a certain number of contacting superconducting tapes coated with copper layers on both sides. The contact resistance of a metal solid surface is affected by many factors. In this work, the contact resistance of copper surface samples was studied experimentally under variable normal cyclic load, temperature and number of contact surfaces. This is consistent with real-world working conditions, as the structure of superconducting cables can be changed, and such cables are used under cyclic electromagnetic forces in temperatures which range from room to working temperature. Experimental results showed that contact resistance decreased rapidly with an increase of load. Further, when temperature was varied from 77 to 373 K, the load–unload contact resistance lag decreased. When the number of contact surfaces was increased, contact resistance increased. Finally, a fitted formula describing the relationship between contact resistance and cyclic times, temperature and number of contact interfaces was determined. This formula can be used to predict variation trends of contact resistance in complex environments and provide more accurate contact resistance parameters for calculating the AC loss of superconducting cables.
Dimensional Accuracy and Mechanical Properties of Chopped Carbon Reinforced Polymers Produced by Material Extrusion Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Yasa Evren , Ersoy Kıvılcım
Published: November 2019

Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF), classified under material extrusion additive manufacturing technologies, is a widely used method for fabricating thermoplastic parts with high geometrical complexity. To improve the mechanical properties of pure thermoplastic materials, the polymeric matrix may be reinforced by different materials such as carbon fibers. FFF is an advantageous process for producing polymer matrix composites because of its low cost of investment, high speed and simplicity as well as the possibility to use multiple nozzles with different materials. In this study, the aim was to investigate the dimensional accuracy and mechanical properties of chopped carbon-fiber-reinforced tough nylon produced by the FFF process. The dimensional accuracy and manufacturability limits of the process are evaluated using benchmark geometries as well as process-inherent effects like stair-stepping effect. The hardness and tensile properties of produced specimens in comparison to tough nylon without any reinforcement, as well as continuous carbon-reinforced specimens, were presented by taking different build directions and various infill ratios. The fracture surfaces of tensile specimens were observed using a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The test results showed that there was a severe level of anisotropy in the mechanical properties, especially the modulus of elasticity, due to the insufficient fusion between deposited layers in the build direction. Moreover, continuous carbon-reinforced specimens exhibited very high levels of tensile strength and modulus of elasticity whereas the highest elongation was achieved by tough nylon without reinforcement. The failure mechanisms were found to be inter-layer porosity between successive tracks, as well as fiber pull out.
Towards Creation of Ceramic-Based Low Permeability Reference Standards
Authors: Chugunov Svyatoslav , Kazak Andrey , Amro Mohammed , Freese Carsten , Akhatov Iskander
Published: November 2019

Low-permeable materials, either artificial or natural, are essential components of the current technological development. Their production or processing requires a comprehensive characterization method based on confident reference standards. Permeability standards for values below 10−15 m2 are lacking. In this study, we explored the feasibility of using the ceramic sintering process to reach low, but measurable values of gas permeability in Al2O3 samples, as one of the potential materials for reference standards. The studied samples were produced with a ceramic 3D printer, which enables the manufacturing of low-permeable samples having complex geometrical arrangements. A series of preliminary laboratory testing indicated the available gas permeability range from 2.4 × 10−15 m2 for the pre-sintered samples to 1.8 × 10−21 m2 for the sintered samples. The verification of the permeability reduction was carried out using a unique unsteady state fast and accurate measurement method. The results confirm the possibility of developing a technology for materials manufacturing with low porosity and permeability. Such materials open many areas for application, including manufacturing of ceramics with controlled transport properties and low-permeability standards for calibrating laboratory equipment for geosciences, construction industries, biomedical, and other relevant fields.