bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visible Light as an Antimicrobial Strategy for Inactivation of Pseudomonas fluorescens and Staphylococcus epidermidis Biofilms
Authors: Angarano Valeria , Smet Cindy , Akkermans Simen , Watt Charlotte , Chieffi Andre , Van Impe Jan F.M.
Published: April 2020

The increase of antimicrobial resistance is challenging the scientific community to find solutions to eradicate bacteria, specifically biofilms. Light-Emitting Diodes (LED) represent an alternative way to tackle this problem in the presence of endogenous or exogenous photosensitizers. This work adds to a growing body of research on photodynamic inactivation using visible light against biofilms. Violet (400 nm), blue (420 nm), green (570 nm), yellow (584 nm) and red (698 nm) LEDs were used against Pseudomonas fluorescens and Staphylococcus epidermidis. Biofilms, grown on a polystyrene surface, were irradiated for 4 h. Different irradiance levels were investigated (2.5%, 25%, 50% and 100% of the maximum irradiance). Surviving cells were quantified and the inactivation kinetic parameters were estimated. Violet light could successfully inactivate P. fluorescens and S. epidermidis (up to 6.80 and 3.69 log10 reduction, respectively), while blue light was effective only against P. fluorescens (100% of maximum irradiance). Green, yellow and red irradiation neither increased nor reduced the biofilm cell density. This is the first research to test five different wavelengths (each with three intensities) in the visible spectrum against Gram-positive and Gram-negative biofilms. It provides a detailed study of the potential of visible light against biofilms of a different Gram-nature.
Spun Biotextiles in Tissue Engineering and Biomolecules Delivery Systems
Authors: Miranda Catarina S. , Ribeiro Ana R. M. , Homem Natália C. , Felgueiras Helena P.
Published: April 2020

Nowadays, tissue engineering is described as an interdisciplinary field that combines engineering principles and life sciences to generate implantable devices to repair, restore and/or improve functions of injured tissues. Such devices are designed to induce the interaction and integration of tissue and cells within the implantable matrices and are manufactured to meet the appropriate physical, mechanical and physiological local demands. Biodegradable constructs based on polymeric fibers are desirable for tissue engineering due to their large surface area, interconnectivity, open pore structure, and controlled mechanical strength. Additionally, biodegradable constructs are also very sought-out for biomolecule delivery systems with a target-directed action. In the present review, we explore the properties of some of the most common biodegradable polymers used in tissue engineering applications and biomolecule delivery systems and highlight their most important uses.
Identification and Testing of Antidermatophytic Oxaborole-6-Benzene Sulphonamide Derivative (OXBS) from Streptomyces atrovirens KM192347 Isolated from Soil
Authors: Abdel-Shafi Seham , Al-Mohammadi Abdul-Raouf , Almanaa Taghreed N. , Moustafa Ahmed H. , Saad Tamer M. M. , Ghonemey Abdel-Rahman , Anacarso Immacolata , Enan Gamal , El-Gazzar Nashwa
Published: April 2020

There is a need to continue research to find out other anti-dermatophytic agents to inhibit causal pathogenic skin diseases including many types of tinea. We undertook the production, purification, and identification of an anti-dermatophytic substance by Streptomyces atrovirens. Out of 103 streptomycete isolates tested, only 20 of them showed antidermatophytic activity with variable degrees against Trichophyton tonsurans CCASU 56400 (T. tonsurans), Microsporum canis CCASU 56402 (M. canis), and Trichophyton mentagrophytes CCASU 56404 (T. mentagrophytes). The most potent isolate, S10Q6, was identified based on the tests conducted that identified morphological and physiological characteristics and using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The isolate was found to be closely correlated to previously described species Streptomyces atrovirens; it was designated Streptomyces atrovirens KM192347 (S. atrovirens). Maximum antifungal activity of the strain KM192347 was obtained in modified starch nitrate medium (MSNM) adjusted initially at pH 7.0 and incubated at 30 °C in shaken cultures (150 rpm) for seven days. The antifungal compound was purified by using two steps protocol including solvent extraction and column chromatography. The MIC of it was 20 µg/mL against the dermatophyte cultures tested. According to the data obtained from instrumental analysis and surveying the novel antibiotics database, the antidermatophytic substance produced by the strain KM192347 was characterized as an oxaborole-6-benzene sulphonamide derivative and designated oxaborole-6-benzene sulphonamide (OXBS) with the chemical formula C13H12 BNO4S. The crude OXBS didn’t show any toxicity on living cells. Finally, the results obtained herein described another anti-dermatophytic substance named an OXBS derivative.
Polyphenols and Sesquiterpene Lactones from Artichoke Heads: Modulation of Starch Digestion, Gut Bioaccessibility, and Bioavailability following In Vitro Digestion and Large Intestine Fermentation
Authors: Rocchetti Gabriele , Giuberti Gianluca , Lucchini Franco , Lucini Luigi
Published: April 2020

Artichoke is a relevant source of health-promoting compounds such as polyphenols and sesquiterpene lactones. In this study, the bioaccessibility and gut bioavailability of artichoke constituents were evaluated by combining in vitro digestion and large intestine fermentation, metabolomics, and Caco-2 human intestinal cells model. Moreover, the ability of artichoke polyphenols to modulate the in vitro starch digestibility was also explored. An untargeted metabolomic approach based on liquid chromatography quadrupole-time-of-flight (UHPLC/QTOF) mass spectrometry coupled with multivariate statistics was used to comprehensively screen the phytochemical composition of raw, digested, and fermented artichoke. Overall, a large abundance of phenolic acids and sesquiterpene lactones was detected, being 13.77 and 11.99 mg·g−1, respectively. After 20 h of in vitro large intestine fermentation, a decrease in polyphenols and sesquiterpene lactones content was observed. The most abundant compounds characterizing the raw material (i.e., chlorogenic acid and cynaropicrin equivalents) showed an average % bioaccessibility of 1.6%. The highest % bioaccessibility values were recorded for flavonoids such as anthocyanin and flavone equivalents (on average, 13.6%). However, the relatively high bioavailability values recorded for flavonols, phenolic acids, and sesquiterpene lactones (from 71.6% up to 82.4%) demonstrated that these compounds are able to be transported through the Caco-2 monolayer. The phenolic compounds having the highest permeation rates through the Caco-2 model included low molecular weight phenolics such as tyrosol and 4-ethylcatechol; the isoflavonoids 3′-O-methylviolanone, equol 4′-O-glucuronide, and hydroxyisoflavone; together with the methyl and acetyl derivatives of glycosylated anthocyanins. Therefore, although human in vivo confirmatory trials are deemed possible, current findings provide insights into the mechanistic effects underlying artichoke polyphenols and sesquiterpenoids bioavailability following gastrointestinal and large intestine processes.
Tunable Fano Resonances in an Ultra-Small Gap
Authors: Yao Fuqiang , Li Fang , He Zhicong , Liu Yahui , Xu Litu , Han Xiaobo
Published: April 2020

A Fano resonance is experimentally observed in a single silver nanocube separated from a supporting silver film by a thin aluminum oxide film. The resonance spectrum is modulated by changing the size of the silver nanocube and its distance from the silver film. The system is fabricated by a bottom-up process with an accurately controlled nanogap at the sub-6-nm scale. The simulation result shows that the destructive interference between the dipole mode and the quadrupole mode in this “nanocube on mirror” (NCoM) structure is responsible for the resonance. The spectra red-shifted as the size of the silver nanocube increased and its distance from the silver film decreased. In addition, a refractive index sensitivity of the spectrum of 140 meV/RIU (refractive index unit), with a 2.4 figure of merit, is obtained by changing the dielectric environment around the silver nanocube. This work will enable the development of high-performance tunable optical nanodevices based on NCoM structures.
TB Elimination Requires Discovery and Development of Transformational Agents
Authors: Lienhardt Christian , Raviglione Mario C.
Published: April 2020

The World Health Organization (WHO) End Tuberculosis (TB) Strategy has set ambitious targets to reduce 2015 TB incidence and deaths by 80% and 90%, respectively, by the year 2030. Given the current rate of TB incidence decline (about 2% per year annually), reaching these targets will require new transformational tools and innovative ways to deliver them. In addition to improved tests for early and rapid detection of TB and universal drug-susceptibility testing, as well as novel vaccines for improved prevention, better, safer, shorter and more efficacious treatments for all forms of TB are needed. Only a handful of new drugs are currently in phase II or III clinical trials, and a few combination regimens are being tested, mainly for drug-resistant TB. In this article, capitalising on an increasingly rich medicine pipeline and taking advantage of new methodological designs with great potential, the main areas where progress is needed for a transformational improvement of treatment of all forms of TB are described.
Fuzzy Based Risk Assessment for Decommissioning Concrete Bioshield Structures in Nuclear Power Plants: Structural Risks and Worker Safety
Authors: Kim Byeol , Lee Joo sung , Ahn Yong han
Published: April 2020

Few studies have assessed the safety issues involved in decommissioning nuclear facilities, especially from a structural and job perspective; in most developed countries, the focus is generally on the radiological risks. This study highlights the inadequacy of existing deterministic risk assessment methods, which cannot account for the uncertainty and complexity of hazards that workers are exposed to. We instead propose a fuzzy logic based safety assessment model that can analyze and compare alternatives utilizing a step-by-step risk quantification and multidimensional approach. This enables personnel to assess the various risks involved when decontaminating and decommissioning nuclear power plant structures that cannot be quantitatively assessed owing to a lack of data. Our proposed fuzzy based risk assessment model can also be applied to risk assessment in other engineering fields that depend on the judgment of experts supported by little or no statistical data.
Effects of tDCS on Muscle Stiffness in Children with Cerebral Palsy Measured by Myotonometry: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Smoter Małgorzata , Jędrzejczyk-Góral Beata , Chen Aiguo , Ciszek Bogdan , Ignasiak Zofia
Published: April 2020

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on the biceps brachii and flexor carpi radialis stiffness in children with cerebral palsy (CP). The authors also aimed to verify the relationship between spasticity and muscle stiffness. Methods: Twelve children with CP (mean ± SD; age, 8 ± 1.3 years; height, 118.7 ± 4.1 cm; weight, 23.0 ± 2.2 kg) were involved in the study. Muscle stiffness was estimated using a MyotonPRO device in a MultiScan pattern of five measurements. Simultaneously, the tDCS stimulation was performed. Spasticity was assessed by a neurologist using the Ashworth Scale. Results: Stiffness of the flexor carpi radialis muscle decreased significantly after tDCS therapy (p = 0.04). There was no significant change in stiffness of the biceps brachii. For all participants, the Spearman rank correlation showed statistically significant and positive relationships between muscle stiffness and the Ashworth Scale (p = 0.04). Conclusions: Transcranial direct current stimulation has a decreasing effect on stiffness and spasticity of the flexor carpi radialis in children with CP. The MyotonPRO device provides objective data and correlates with spasticity measurements.
Analysis of Salt Mixture Contamination on Insulators via Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy
Authors: Lu Shan , Wang Xinwei , Wang Tianzheng , Qin Xinran , Wang Xilin , Jia Zhidong
Published: April 2020

The composition of contamination deposited on transmission line insulators can affect their surface flashover voltage. Currently, there is no rapid on-line method to detect this contamination composition in power grids. In this paper, we applied laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) to analyze contamination on insulator surfaces. Usually, Na and Ca salts are found in contamination along with various sulfate, carbonate, and chloride compounds. As an element’s detection method, LIBS can only measure a certain element content, for example, Ca. The mixture of various compounds with the same cations can influence the LIBS signal. The influence of mixing ratios on the calibration curves and relative spectral intensity was studied via LIBS. Na2CO3, NaHCO3, CaSO4, and CaCO3 samples containing different proportions of Na and Ca were prepared. The linear correlation coefficients (R2) for the Na and Ca calibration curves generated using various mixing ratios were analyzed. The results showed that the mixture ratio did not dramatically affect the linear calibration curves for mixtures containing the same cations. This finding may significantly reduce the difficulty of applying LIBS analysis for complex contamination on insulators. The laser energy density had effects on the spectral characteristics of the measured elements. The partial least-square regression (PLSR) model can improve the accuracy of Na and Ca prediction.
Behavior of Airport Concrete Pavement Slabs Exposed to Environmental Loadings
Authors: Park Hae-Won , Kim Dong-Hyuk , Shim Cha-Sang , Jeong Jin-Hoon
Published: April 2020

The behavior of pavement slabs was measured over a two-year period from the placement of concrete at a construction site in Incheon International Airport using temperature sensors and strain gauges. The influence of various environmental factors on the slab behavior was investigated by collecting weather data. Laboratory tests were conducted to obtain the material properties of the concrete slab, such as the elastic modulus, Poisson’s ratio, and modulus of rupture. The time of final setting of the concrete slab at the zero point of the strain gauges was determined according to the position and depth of the slab using the maturity of concrete obtained by a mortar penetration test. The real and shrinkage strains were calculated according to the position and depth of the slab using the coefficient of thermal expansion of the concrete, strain gauges, and correction factors of the strain gauges. The effects of environmental factors, such as temperature and moisture variations, were analyzed with respect to the strain in the concrete slab for the first seven days and two years after the placement of the concrete slab. The results obtained by the study shall be used to quantify the environmental effects on slabs for developing a method of designing airport concrete pavements.
Stability of Multiple Seasonal Holt-Winters Models Applied to Hourly Electricity Demand in Spain
Authors: Trull Óscar , García-Díaz J. Carlos , Troncoso Alicia
Published: April 2020

Electricity management and production depend heavily on demand forecasts made. Any mismatch between the energy demanded with respect to that produced supposes enormous losses for the consumer. Transmission System Operators use time series-based tools to forecast accurately the future demand and set the production program. One of the most effective and highly used methods are Holt-Winters. Recently, the incorporation of the multiple seasonal Holt-Winters methods has improved the accuracy of the predictions. These forecasts, depend greatly on the parameters with which the model is constructed. The forecasters need to deal with these parameters values when operating the model. In this article, the parameters space of the multiple seasonal Holt-Winters models applied to electricity demand in Spain is analysed and discussed. The parameters stability analysis leads to forecasters better understanding the behaviour of the predictions and managing their exploitation efficiently. The analysis addresses different time windows, depending on the period of the year as well as different training set sizes. The results show the influence of the calendar effect on these parameters and if it is necessary or not to update them in order to obtain a good accuracy over time.
Predictive Voltage Control: Empowering Domestic Customers With a Key Role in the Active Management of LV Networks
Authors: Simões Micael , Madureira André G.
Published: April 2020

In order to avoid voltage problems derived from the connection of large amounts of renewable-based generation to the electrical distribution system, new advanced tools need to be developed that are able to exploit the presence of Distributed Energy Resources (DER). This paper describes the approach proposed for a predictive voltage control algorithm to be used in Low Voltage (LV) distribution networks in order to make use of available flexibilities from domestic consumers via their Home Energy Management System (HEMS) and more traditional resources from the Distribution System Operator (DSO), such as transformers with On-Load Tap Changer (OLTC) and storage devices. The proposed algorithm—the Low Voltage Control (LVC)—is detailed in this paper. The algorithm was tested through simulation using a real Portuguese LV network and real consumption and generation data, in order to evaluate its performance in preparation for a field-trial validation in a Portuguese smart grids pilot.
Visual Methods to Assess Strain Fields in Armour Materials Subjected to Dynamic Deformation—A Review
Authors: Ellis Chris L. , Hazell Paul
Published: April 2020

When impacted by a projectile, ballistic protection undergoes very large strain rates over very short periods of time. During these impact events, materials will undergo a very short region of elastic deformation, before undergoing significant plastic deformation. Due to the high levels of plastic deformation the samples undergo, strain gauges and other embedded sensors are often ineffective or become damaged before useful data can be obtained. Three-dimensional digital image correlation (3D DIC) is a non-invasive measurement method that uses two high-speed cameras, offset from each other by 15–45° to observe a speckle pattern on the sample material. As the material, and by extension the speckle pattern, deforms, the images taken throughout the deformation can be compared in sequence, to determine the motion and deformation of the sample. Recent advances in camera technology have allowed for frame rates in the hundreds of thousands of frames per-second, allowing for the measurement of very high-strain rate impact events. This paper will describe the premise of 3D DIC and provide a review of the current applications and research into high-speed impact testing using 3D DIC.
The Potential of a Hair Follicle Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Conditioned Medium for Wound Healing and Hair Follicle Regeneration
Authors: Ou Keng-Liang , Kuo Yun-Wen , Wu Chia-Yu , Huang Bai-Hung , Pai Fang-Tzu , Chou Hsin-Hua , Saito Takashi , Ueno Takaaki , Cho Yung-Chieh , Huang Mao-Suan
Published: April 2020

The study elucidated the wound healing and hair regeneration properties of a conditioned medium prepared from the culture of human hair follicle mesenchymal stem cells (HFMSCs). The wound-healing effects of mesenchymal stem cell-conditioned medium (MSC-CM) were tested in vitro using scratch assays co-cultured with HaCaT keratinocyte and monitored through optical microscopy. The cell proliferation of HFMSCs and the HaCaT keratinocyte were observed in the presence of different kinds of drugs including UK5099, sodium L-lactate, lactate dehydrogenase-A, MSC-CM, caffeine, and caffeic acid. The hair regeneration properties were investigated in vivo by administrating the MSC-CM solutions to adult B6 mouse models. For quantification, hematoxylin and eosin staining were performed following euthanasia. In vitro results revealed that MSC-CM promotes dermal cell migrations and enhances proliferation of HFMSCs and HaCaT keratinocytes, demonstrating wound-healing properties. Moreover, when the MSC-CM solutions were applied to the shaved mouse skin, a dark area that expanded overtime was seen. Although no hair growth was found, histological analysis proved that a fat layer thickness increment was found under the mouse’s skin, ultimately projecting the formation of new hair growth. MSC-CM promotes the migration and proliferation of dermal keratinocytes that are beneficial for wound healing and hair growth. It is believed that MSC-CM can potentially serve as the basis of alternative therapeutic applications for wound closure and skin regeneration as well as hair growth stimulation and hair loss prevention in alopecia.
2-LED-µSpectrophotometer for Rapid On-Site Detection of Pathogens Using Noble-Metal Nanoparticle-Based Colorimetric Assays
Authors: Reuter Cornelia , Urban Matthias , Arnold Manuel , Stranik Ondrej , Csáki Andrea , Fritzsche Wolfgang
Published: April 2020

Novel point-of-care compatible methods such as colorimetric assays have become increasingly important in the field of early pathogen detection. A simple and hand-held prototype device for carrying out DNA-amplification assay based on plasmonic nanoparticles in the colorimetric detection is presented. The low-cost device with two channels (sample and reference) consists of two spectrally different light emitting diodes (LEDs) for detection of the plasmon shift. The color change of the gold-nanoparticle-DNA conjugates caused by a salt-induced aggregation test is examined in particular. A specific and sensitive detection of the waterborne human pathogen Legionella pneumophila is demonstrated. This colorimetric assay, with a simple assay design and simple readout device requirements, can be monitored in real-time on-site.
Special Issue on “Biomaterials for Bone Tissue Engineering”
Authors: Sanz-Herrera José A.
Published: April 2020

The present Special Issue covers recent advances in the field of tissue engineering applied to bone tissue [...]
Mapping Maize Cultivated Area Combining MODIS EVI Time Series and the Spatial Variations of Phenology over Huanghuaihai Plain
Authors: Wang Xueting , Zhang Sha , Feng Lili , Zhang Jiahua , Deng Fan
Published: April 2020

Crop phenology is a significant factor that affects the precision of crop area extraction by using the multi-temporal vegetation indices (VIs) approach. Considering the phenological differences of maize among the different regions, the summer maize cultivated area was estimated by using enhanced vegetation index (EVI) time series images from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) over the Huanghuaihai Plain in China. By analyzing the temporal shift in summer maize calendars, linear regression equations for simulating the summer maize phenology were obtained. The simulated maize phenology was used to correct the MODIS EVI time series curve of summer maize. Combining the mean absolute distance (MAD) and p-tile algorithm, the cultivated areas of summer maize were distinguished over the Hunaghuaihai Plain. The accuracy of the extraction results in each province was above 85%. Comparing the maize area of two groups from MODIS-estimated and statistical data, the validation results showed that the R2 reached 0.81 at the city level and 0.69 at the county level. It demonstrated that the approach in this study has the ability to effectively map the summer maize area over a large scale and provides a novel idea for estimating the planting area of other crops.
Design Optimization for the Thin-Walled Joint Thread of a Coring Tool Used for Deep Boreholes
Authors: Wang Yu , Qian Chengyuan , Kong Lingrong , Zhou Qin , Gong Jinwu
Published: April 2020

Threaded joints are key components of core drilling tools. Currently, core drilling tools generally adopt the thread structure designed by the API Spec 7-1 standard. However, fractures easily occur in this thread structure due to high stress concentrations, resulting in downhole accidents. In this paper, according to the needs of large-diameter core drilling, a core barrel joint was designed with an outer diameter of Φ135 mm and a trapezoidal thread profile. Subsequently, a three-dimensional simulation model of the joint was established. The influence of the external load, connection state and thread structure on the stress distribution in the joint was analyzed through simulations, from which the optimal thread structure was determined. Finally, a connection test was carried out on the threaded joint. The stress distribution in the joint thread was indirectly studied by analyzing gas leaks (i.e., the sealing effect) under axial tension. According to the test data and the simulation results, the final joint thread structure was optimized, which lays a good foundation for the design of a core barrel.
Non-Destructive Tests for Damage Evaluation of Stone Columns: The Case Study of Sacro Monte in Ghiffa (Italy)
Authors: Grazzini Alessandro , Fasana Sara , Zerbinatti Marco , Lacidogna Giuseppe
Published: April 2020

The Italian Sacri Monti are heritage sites with some unique characteristics; they are a successful symbiosis between nature and art and are unconfined structures, therefore always being accessible but exposed to atmospheric agents, with many relevant consequences with regard to conservation problems. The paper discusses some aspects related to the application of non-destructive techniques (NDT) for the interpretation of degradation phenomena occurring in stone structural elements. Ultrasonic and impact tests were used to evaluate the structural properties of the stone columns in the Via Crucis portico, within the monumental complex of the Sacro Monte in Ghiffa (Piedmont, Italy), in order to determine their conditions of maintenance and to evaluate the portico static stability. Ultrasonic tests made it possible to obtain the value of the dynamic elastic modulus, which was variable at different points of the columns due to the diversified level of material damage. The impact test, performed with an instrumented hammer in the same points of the ultrasonic test, enables, by comparison, a deeper knowledge of the surface resistance of damaged columns. These results are the first step in a research path that will require further laboratory tests to better calibrate the diagnostic techniques applied to different levels of damage to surface materials.
Enforcing a Force–Displacement Curve of a Nonlinear Structure Using Topology Optimization with Slope Constraints
Authors: Lee Jongsuh , Detroux Thibaut , Kerschen Gaëtan
Published: April 2020

The objective of this study is to develop an optimization methodology to find a layout that traces a prescribed force–displacement curve through a topology optimization approach. To this end, we propose an objective function to minimize the difference between a prescribed force–displacement curve and the curve calculated at each iteration of the optimization process. Slope constraints are introduced to solve issues encountered when using a small number of target points. In addition, a projection filter is employed to suppress the gray region observed between the solid and void regions, which generally occurs when using a density-based filter. A recently proposed energy interpolation scheme is implemented to stabilize the instability in the nonlinear analysis, which generally results from excessive distortion in the void region when the structure is modeled on a fixed mesh in the topology optimization process. To validate the outlined methodology, several case studies with different types of nonlinearity and structural features of the obtained layouts are investigated.
Remaining Useful Strength (RUS) Prediction of SiCf-SiCm Composite Materials Using Deep Learning and Acoustic Emission
Authors: Louis Steph-Yves M. , Nasiri Alireza , Bao Jingjing , Cui Yuxin , Zhao Yong , Jin Jing , Huang Xinyu , Hu Jianjun
Published: April 2020

Prognosis techniques for prediction of remaining useful life (RUL) are of crucial importance to the management of complex systems for they can lead to appropriate maintenance interventions and improvements in reliability. While various data-driven methods have been introduced to predict the remaining useful life (RUL) of machinery systems or batteries, no research has been reported on the remaining useful strength (RUS) prediction of silicon carbide fiber reinforced silicon carbide matrix (SiCf-SiCm) materials with pivotal role in its potential usage as a structural material in nuclear reactors and turbine engines. Knowledge of its degradation process is of the utmost importance to the manufacturers. For this purpose, two approaches based on the machine-learning techniques of random-forest (RF) and convolutional neural network (CNN) are proposed to predict the RUS of SiCf-SiCm using only acoustic emission (AE) signals generated during the material’s stress applying process. Experimental results show that the CNN models achieved better predictive performance than the RF models but the latter with expert-engineered features achieves better prediction for AE signals in the early stage of degradation. Additionally, our results demonstrate that both models can correctly predict the SiCf-SiCm RUS as evaluated by our robust testing method from which the best average root mean square error (RMSE) and Pearson correlation coefficient of 3.55 ksi units and 0.85 were obtained.
An Alternative Approach to Cataract Surgery Using BSS Temperature of 2.7 °C
Authors: Meduri Alessandro , Aragona Pasquale , Testagrossa Barbara , Scolaro Sergio , Gurgone Sergio , Bonanno Lilla , Caridi Francesco , Acri Giuseppe
Published: April 2020

The aim of this study is to evaluate the difference in the number of endothelial cells after cataract operations with phacoemulsification by using a balanced salt solution (BSS) at standard temperature (about 20 °C) and at 2.7 °C. Two groups, comprising 214 individuals in total, participated in this study; patients were operated on using BSS bottle at about 20 °C and 2.7 °C in the first and second groups, respectively. All operations were conducted by the same surgeon and in similar conditions. One month after the operations, endothelial cells in the two groups were checked. For patients in Group 2, an important reduction in the loss of endothelial cells was observed.
Local and Remote Sources of Airborne Suspended Particulate Matter in the Antarctic Region
Authors: Marina-Montes César , Pérez-Arribas Luis Vicente , Anzano Jesús , Cáceres Jorge O.
Published: April 2020

Quantification of suspended particulate matter (SPM) measurements—together with statistical tools, polar contour maps and backward air mass trajectory analyses—were implemented to better understand the main local and remote sources of contamination in this pristine region. Field campaigns were carried out during the austral summer of 2016–2017 at the “Gabriel de Castilla” Spanish Antarctic Research Station, located on Deception Island (South Shetland Islands, Antarctic). Aerosols were deposited in an air filter through a low-volume sampler and chemically analysed using Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) and Inductively Coupled Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-AES). Elements such as Al, Ca, Fe, K, Mg, Na, P, S, Cu, Pb, Sr, Ti, Zn, Hf, Zr, V, As, Ti, Mn, Sn and Cr were identified. The statistical tools together with their correlations (Sr/Na, Al/Ti, Al/Mn, Al/Sr, Al/Pb, K/P) suggest a potentially significant role of terrestrial inputs for Al, Ti, Mn, Sr and Pb; marine environments for Sr and Na; and biological inputs for K and P. Polar contour graphical maps allowed reproducing wind maps, revealing the biological local distribution of K and P (penguin colony). Additionally, backward trajectory analysis confirmed previous affirmations and atmospheric air masses following the Antarctic circumpolar pattern.
A Precis of Threshold Laws for Positron vs. Electron Impact Ionization of Atoms
Authors: Temkin A.
Published: April 2020

The Coulomb-dipole theory of positron vs. electron impact ionization of hydrogen (as a proxy for neutral atoms) is reviewed, emphasizing how the analytic form of the threshold law (but not the magnitude) can be the same, whereas the physics of each is entirely different.
Post-Translational Modifications Aid Archaeal Survival
Authors: Gong Ping , Lei Ping , Wang Shengping , Zeng Ao , Lou Huiqiang
Published: April 2020

Since the pioneering work of Carl Woese, Archaea have fascinated biologists of almost all areas given their unique evolutionary status, wide distribution, high diversity, and ability to grow in special environments. Archaea often thrive in extreme conditions such as high temperature, high/low pH, high salinity, and anoxic ecosystems. All of these are threats to the stability and proper functioning of biological molecules, especially proteins and nucleic acids. Post-translational modifications (PTMs), such as phosphorylation, methylation, acetylation, and glycosylation, are reportedly widespread in Archaea and represent a critical adaptive mechanism to extreme habitats. Here, we summarize our current understanding of the contributions of PTMs to aid in extremophile survival, with a particular focus on the maintenance of genome stability.
Deletion of VDAC1 Hinders Recovery of Mitochondrial and Renal Functions After Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Nowak Grazyna , Megyesi Judit , Craigen William J.
Published: April 2020

Voltage-dependent anion channels (VDACs) constitute major transporters mediating bidirectional movement of solutes between cytoplasm and mitochondria. We aimed to determine if VDAC1 plays a role in recovery of mitochondrial and kidney functions after ischemia-induced acute kidney injury (AKI). Kidney function decreased after ischemia and recovered in wild-type (WT), but not in VDAC1-deficient mice. Mitochondrial maximum respiration, activities of respiratory complexes and FoF1-ATPase, and ATP content in renal cortex decreased after ischemia and recovered in WT mice. VDAC1 deletion reduced respiration and ATP content in non-injured kidneys. Further, VDAC1 deletion blocked return of activities of respiratory complexes and FoF1-ATPase, and recovery of respiration and ATP content after ischemia. Deletion of VDAC1 exacerbated ischemia-induced mitochondrial fission, but did not aggravate morphological damage to proximal tubules after ischemia. However, VDAC1 deficiency impaired recovery of kidney morphology and increased renal interstitial collagen accumulation. Thus, our data show a novel role for VDAC1 in regulating renal mitochondrial dynamics and recovery of mitochondrial function and ATP levels after AKI. We conclude that the presence of VDAC1 (1) stimulates capacity of renal mitochondria for respiration and ATP production, (2) reduces mitochondrial fission, (3) promotes recovery of mitochondrial function and dynamics, renal morphology, and kidney functions, and (4) increases survival after AKI.
Effect of Citric Acid on Growth, Ecophysiology, Chloroplast Ultrastructure, and Phytoremediation Potential of Jute (Corchorus capsularis L.) Seedlings Exposed to Copper Stress
Authors: Parveen Aasma , Saleem Muhammad Hamzah , Kamran Muhammad , Haider Muhammad Zulqurnain , Chen Jen-Tsung , Malik Zaffar , Rana Muhammad Shoaib , Hassan Amara , Hur Ghulam , Javed Muhammad Tariq , Azeem Muhammad
Published: April 2020

Soil and water contamination from heavy metals and metalloids is one of the most discussed and caused adverse effects on food safety and marketability, crop growth due to phytotoxicity, and environmental health of soil organisms. A hydroponic investigation was executed to evaluate the influence of citric acid (CA) on copper (Cu) phytoextraction potential of jute (Corchorus capsularis L.). Three-weeks-old seedlings of C. capsularis were exposed to different Cu concentrations (0, 50, and 100 μM) with or without the application of CA (2 mM) in a nutrient growth medium. The results revealed that exposure of various levels of Cu by 50 and 100 μM significantly (p < 0.05) reduced plant growth, biomass, chlorophyll contents, gaseous exchange attributes, and damaged ultra-structure of chloroplast in C. capsularis seedlings. Furthermore, Cu toxicity also enhanced the production of malondialdehyde (MDA) which indicated the Cu-induced oxidative damage in the leaves of C. capsularis seedlings. Increasing the level of Cu in the nutrient solution significantly increased Cu uptake by the roots and shoots of C. capsularis seedlings. The application of CA into the nutrient medium significantly alleviated Cu phytotoxicity effects on C. capsularis seedlings as seen by plant growth and biomass, chlorophyll contents, gaseous exchange attributes, and ultra-structure of chloroplast. Moreover, CA supplementation also alleviated Cu-induced oxidative stress by reducing the contents of MDA. In addition, application of CA is helpful in increasing phytoremediation potential of the plant by increasing Cu concentration in the roots and shoots of the plants which is manifested by increasing the values of bioaccumulation (BAF) and translocation factors (TF) also. These observations depicted that application of CA could be a useful approach to assist Cu phytoextraction and stress tolerance against Cu in C. capsularis seedlings grown in Cu contaminated sites.
Of Retinoids and Organotins: The Evolution of the Retinoid X Receptor in Metazoa
Authors: Fonseca Elza , Ruivo Raquel , Borges Débora , Franco João N. , Santos Miguel M. , C. Castro L. Filipe
Published: April 2020

Nuclear receptors (NRs) are transcription factors accomplishing a multiplicity of functions, essential for organismal homeostasis. Among their numerous members, the retinoid X receptor (RXR) is a central player of the endocrine system, with a singular ability to operate as a homodimer or a heterodimer with other NRs. Additionally, RXR has been found to be a critical actor in various processes of endocrine disruption resulting from the exposure to a known class of xenobiotics termed organotins (e.g., tributyltin (TBT)), including imposex in gastropod molluscs and lipid perturbation across different metazoan lineages. Thus, given its prominent physiological and endocrine role, RXR is present in the genomes of most extant metazoan species examined to date. Here, we expand on the phylogenetic distribution of RXR across the metazoan tree of life by exploring multiple next-generation sequencing projects of protostome lineages. By addressing amino acid residue conservation in combination with cell-based functional assays, we show that RXR induction by 9-cis retinoic acid (9cisRA) and TBT is conserved in more phyla than previously described. Yet, our results highlight distinct activation efficacies and alternative modes of RXR exploitation by the organotin TBT, emphasizing the need for broader species sampling to clarify the mechanistic activation of RXR.
From Cheese Whey Permeate to Sakacin A: A Circular Economy Approach for the Food-Grade Biotechnological Production of an Anti-Listeria Bacteriocin
Authors: Musatti Alida , Cavicchioli Daniele , Mapelli Chiara , Bertoni Danilo , Hogenboom Johannes A. , Pellegrino Luisa , Rollini Manuela
Published: April 2020

Cheese Whey Permeate (CWP) is the by-product of whey ultrafiltration for protein recovery. It is highly perishable with substantial disposal costs and has serious environmental impact. The aim of the present study was to develop a novel and cheap CWP-based culture medium for Lactobacillus sakei to produce the food-grade sakacin A, a bacteriocin exhibiting a specific antilisterial activity. Growth conditions, nutrient supplementation and bacteriocin yield were optimized through an experimental design in which the standard medium de Man, Rogosa and Sharpe (MRS) was taken as benchmark. The most convenient formulation was liquid CWP supplemented with meat extract (4 g/L) and yeast extract (8 g/L). Although, arginine (0.5 g/L) among free amino acids was depleted in all conditions, its supplementation did not increase process yield. The results demonstrate the feasibility of producing sakacin A from CWP. Cost of the novel medium was 1.53 €/L and that of obtaining sakacin A 5.67 €/106 AU, with a significant 70% reduction compared to the corresponding costs with MRS (5.40 €/L, 18.00 €/106 AU). Taking into account that the limited use of bacteriocins for food application is mainly due to the high production cost, the obtained reduction may contribute to widening the range of applications of sakacin A as antilisterial agent.
Flexible and Printed Electrochemical Immunosensor Coated with Oxygen Plasma Treated SWCNTs for Histamine Detection
Authors: Shkodra Bajramshahe , Demelash Abera Biresaw , Cantarella Giuseppe , Douaki Ali , Avancini Enrico , Petti Luisa , Lugli Paolo
Published: April 2020

Heterocyclic amine histamine is a well-known foodborne toxicant (mostly linked to “scombroid poisoning”) synthesized from the microbial decarboxylation of amino acid histidine. In this work, we report the fabrication of a flexible screen-printed immunosensor based on a silver electrode coated with single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) for the detection of histamine directly in fish samples. Biosensors were realized by first spray depositing SWCNTs on the working electrodes and by subsequently treating them with oxygen plasma to reduce the unwanted effects related to their hydrophobicity. Next, anti-histamine antibodies were directly immobilized on the treated SWCNTs. Histamine was detected using the typical reaction of histamine and histamine-labeled with horseradish peroxidase (HRP) competing to bind with anti-histamine antibodies. The developed immunosensor shows a wide linear detection range from 0.005 to 50 ng/mL for histamine samples, with a coefficient of determination as high as 98.05%. Average recoveries in fish samples were observed from 96.00% to 104.7%. The biosensor also shows good selectivity (less than 3% relative response for cadaverine, putrescine, and tyramine), reproducibility, mechanical and time stability, being a promising analytical tool for the analysis of histamine, as well as of other food hazards.
Instrumenting Polyodon spathula (Paddlefish) Rostra in Flowing Water with Strain Gages and Accelerometers
Authors: Thurmer Clayton R. , Patel Reena R. , Riveros Guilermo A. , Alexander Quincy G. , Ray Jason D. , Netchaev Anton , Brown Richard D. , Leathers Emily G. , Klein Jordan D. , Hoover Jan Jeffrey
Published: April 2020

The prominent rostrum of the North American Paddlefish, supported by a lattice-like endoskeleton, is highly durable, making it an important candidate for bio-inspiration studies. Energy dissipation and load-bearing capacity of the structure from extreme physical force has been demonstrated superior to that of man-made systems, but response to continuous hydraulic forces is unknown and requires special instrumentation for in vivo testing on a live fish. A single supply strain gage amplifier circuit has been combined with a digital three-axis accelerometer, implemented in a printed circuit board (PCB), and integrated with the commercial-off-the-shelf Adafruit Feather M0 datalogger with a microSD card. The device is battery powered and enclosed in silicon before attachment around the rostrum with a silicon strap "watch band." As proof-of-concept, we tested the instrumentation on an amputated Paddlefish rostrum in a water-filled swim tunnel and successfully obtained interpretable data. Results indicate that this design could work on live swimming fish in future in vivo experiments.
Targeting the Orexin System for Prescription Opioid Use Disorder
Authors: Matzeu Alessandra , Martin-Fardon Rémi
Published: April 2020

Prescription opioids are potent analgesics that are used for clinical pain management. However, the nonmedical use of these medications has emerged as a major concern because of dramatic increases in abuse and overdose. Therefore, effective strategies to prevent prescription opioid use disorder are urgently needed. The orexin system has been implicated in the regulation of motivation, arousal, and stress, making this system a promising target for the treatment of substance use disorder. This review discusses recent preclinical studies that suggest that orexin receptor blockade could be beneficial for the treatment of prescription opioid use disorder.
Metronidazole Encephalopathy EEG Features: A Case Report with Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Ricci Lorenzo , Motolese Francesco , Tombini Mario , Lanzone Jacopo , Rea Roberta , Di Matteo Francesco , Di Lazzaro Vincenzo , Assenza Giovanni
Published: April 2020

Metronidazole-induced encephalopathy (MIE) is a rare and often under-recognized iatrogenic condition. The diagnosis should be considered in metronidazole-treated patients presenting with acute encephalopathy, unprovoked seizures and cerebellar signs. While typical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings strongly support the diagnosis, electroencephalography (EEG) features have been rarely reported and poorly described. We present a longitudinal EEG assessment in one patient with encephalopathy due to metronidazole toxicity who presented a peculiar EEG pattern presentation and evolution. During the acute phase of encephalopathy, the EEG showed a monomorphic, sharply contoured theta activity symmetrically represented over frontal regions with an anterior–posterior progression which evolved in parallel with clinical worsening. Together with a systematic review of the literature, we discuss whether this EEG activity may represent a distinct neurophysiological correlate of ‘cerebellar encephalopathy’.
Time Window of Perturbation-Induced Response Triggered by Ankle Motion and Body Sway above the Ankle
Authors: Hiraoka Koichi , Kuramitsu Toru , Nii Naoki , Osumi Miyuki , Tanaka Nana
Published: April 2020

We determined the precise time windows of the electromyographic (EMG) response components triggered by ankle motion and by body sway above the ankle. A support surface under the feet of healthy young adult participants in the quiet stance was moved in translation. The EMG response component triggered by body displacement above the ankle began at 95–100 ms and ended 145–155 ms after the onset of the support surface translation. The EMG response triggered by ankle dorsiflexion began at 35–50 ms and ended 110–115 ms after the onset of the translation in the soleus muscle, indicating that the response component began at a time similar to the short-latency response. In contrast, the response component in the gastrocnemius muscle began noticeably after that. The EMG response triggered by ankle dorsiflexion began at 75–85 ms and ended 125–135 ms after the onset of the translation in the gastrocnemius muscle. Our findings indicate that the threshold of the early response component to the somatic sensation of the ankle motion in the soleus muscle is lower than that in the gastrocnemius muscle. The response component triggered by the ankle motion continued long after the end of ankle dorsiflexion, indicating that the early component is mediated not only by the monosynaptic stretch reflex pathway but also by the polysynaptic pathway.