bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Total reflection X‐ray fluorescence analysis of elemental composition of herbal infusions and teas
Authors: Winkler Aleksandra , Rauwolf Mirjam , Sterba Johannes H , Wobrauschek Peter , Streli Christina , Turyanskaya Anna
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

The elemental composition of herbal infusions and teas has not been sufficiently investigated. It could potentially be used for defining fingerprints for individual herbal / tea infusions, differentiation of botanical families, detecting the influence of packaging, and other purposes. The objective of this study was to determine the elemental composition, including the trace element content, of various herbal infusions and teas by means of total reflection X‐ray fluorescence analysis (TXRF), with a chemometrics approach using principal component analysis (PCA).

RESULTS

This study determined the elemental composition of various herbal infusions and teas, including trace elements, using total reflection X‐ray fluorescence (TXRF). The methodology for the sample preparation was established, including the multiple‐steepings procedure for the two tea samples (Oolong and Pu‐erh). Data from 29 samples were collected. We hypothesized that the elemental content of infusions could reflect certain features, such as the influence of processing and the type of tea.

CONCLUSION

A chemometric approach (PCA) was applied, and differences between teas and herbal infusions were found. This was further corroborated by explicit differentiation of one botanical family, Theaceae. The influence of packaging (tea bags) on herbal material was identified. The three types of tea (Camellia sinensis) appeared to be separated with PCA, and elemental concentrations in Pu‐erh changed with multiple steepings.
Ionic strength and pH stability of oil‐in‐water emulsions prepared with acid‐hydrolyzed insoluble proteins from Chlorella protothecoides
Authors: Dai Laixin , Hinrichs Jörg , Weiss Jochen
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Chlorella protothecoides is one of the most widely commercialized and studied microalgae species. Recent research reported improved emulsifying properties of the insoluble protein fraction from C. protothecoides after thermal–acid treatment.

RESULTS

In this research, we studied the influence of ionic strength (sodium chloride 50–500 mmol L−1 or calcium chloride 5–50 m mol L−1) and pH (2–9) on the stability of oil‐in‐water emulsions prepared by 3% (w/w) of the untreated insoluble microalgae protein fraction or hydrolysates obtained after treatment with hydrochloric acid at 65 °C (Hydrolysates 65) or 85 °C (Hydrolysates 85) for 4 h. The emulsions were prepared by mixing 10% (w/w) oil and homogenized at 68.9 MPa. The ionic strength and pH were, subsequently, adjusted. The mean particle diameter of emulsions remained constant despite extensive variations in ionic strength or pH. Emulsion droplets stabilized by Hydrolysates 85 were stable against coalescence at all ionic strengths or pH values tested.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate a high potential to use acid‐hydrolyzed insoluble microalgae protein fractions for the formulation of various emulsion‐based food systems. © 2020 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Comparative effect of a previous 150‐MPa treatment on the quality loss of frozen hake stored at different temperatures
Authors: Carrera Mónica , Fidalgo Liliana G , Vázquez Manuel , Saraiva Jorge A , Aubourg Santiago P
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

This study addresses the quality loss of European hake (Merluccius merluccius) during frozen storage. Its objective was to comparatively analyse the effect of a previous high‐pressure processing (HPP) (150 MPa for 2 min) when different storage temperatures (−10, −18 and −30 °C) were employed.

RESULTS

Most chemical quality indices (trimethylamine, TMA; dimethylamine, DMA, formaldehyde, FA; free fatty acids, FFAs) provided a marked content increase with freezing and frozen storage time, values being higher by increasing the storage temperature. Previous HPP led to an inhibitory (P < 0.05) effect on the TMA, DMA, FA and FFA formation in frozen fish kept at −10 and −18 °C, the preservative effect being higher at the highest temperature tested; however, in agreement to the low damage development, no effect could be proved on samples stored at −30 °C. Concerning lipid oxidation, peroxides formation was found low, although a slight increasing effect (P < 0.05) was implied in fish corresponding to all temperatures as a result of the previous HPP; furthermore, an inhibitory effect (P < 0.05) on fluorescent compounds formation (tertiary lipid oxidation) was evident after freezing and at month 9 for −10 °C samples.

CONCLUSION

It is concluded that a 150‐MPa high‐pressure treatment may inhibit the formation of degradative molecules such as DMA, FA, TMA and FFAs during the frozen storage at −18 °C (maximum recommended) and −10 °C. However, results have indicated that lowering the storage temperature showed to be more effective than the current HPP (150 MPa for 2 min). © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Camellia nitidissima Chi flower extract alleviates obesity and related complications and modulates gut microbiota composition in rats with high‐fat‐diet‐induced obesity
Authors: Zhang Hai‐long , Wu Qing‐xiao , Qin Xiao‐ming
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to investigate the potential anti‐obesity effects of Camellia nitidissima Chi flower extract (Cnfe) by examining its effects in terms of the regulation of lipid levels and modulation of gut microbiota in rats with high‐fat‐diet‐induced obesity.

RESULTS

Our results demonstrated that Cnfe significantly decreased weight gain by reducing appetite and decreasing high‐fat food intake. Further, Cnfe restored normal lipid metabolism and improved insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance in rats fed a high‐fat diet. Real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and western blot results showed that Cnfe significantly decreased the expression of genes and proteins involved in adipogenesis and lipogenesis, and upregulated the expression of lipolysis genes. 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing of feces showed that Cnfe dramatically reversed dysbacteriosis in rats with high‐fat‐diet‐induced obesity by decreasing the abundance of Firmicutes and increasing that of Bacteroidetes and Verrucomicrobia at the phylum level.

CONCLUSION

The results demonstrate that Cnfe is a potential anti‐obesity prebiotic nutrient that can prevent weight gain, ameliorate obesity‐related dyslipidemia and hyperglycemia, inhibit liver fat accumulation, and modulate gut microbiota. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Composition and quality traits of vegetables grown in a low‐tech aquaponic system at different fish stocking densities
Authors: Maucieri Carmelo , Nicoletto Carlo , Zanin Giampaolo , Xiccato Gerolamo , Borin Maurizio , Sambo Paolo
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Aquaponics is considered a sustainable system for the production of fish and vegetables. However, little is known about the effects of different system variables on vegetable quality. Hence, the aims of this study were to evaluate the influence of aquaponics on the composition and quality traits of three vegetable species in relation to stocking density of the common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.), in comparison with those of plants grown in hydroponics.

RESULTS

The highest cumulative vegetable marketable yield was obtained in low‐density aquaponics (APL), followed by hydroponics (HP) and high‐density aquaponics (APH). Vegetable quality traits showed species‐specific responses. In general, phosphorus concentration was higher in plants grown in APH and lower in those grown in HP, while the opposite was observed for nitrate concentration. In lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.), sugar content was the highest in APH, whereas for Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris L. subsp. vulgaris Cicla group), the aquaponics treatments increased only glucose content. No differences in sugar content were observed in Catalogna (Cichorium intybus L. Catalogna group). The lowest and highest phenolic acid concentrations in the aboveground biomass of Catalogna and lettuce were observed in HP and APH treatments, respectively. For Swiss chard, APH treatment resulted in the highest caffeic acid content, whereas ferulic acid was the highest in HP.

CONCLUSIONS

Aquaponics at low stocking density increased plant yield, compared to HP, without compromising vegetable quality, whereas aquaponics at high stocking density improved vegetable quality, but at the expense of yield. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Generation of an in vitro model of the outer annulus fibrosus‐cartilage interface
Authors: Chong Jasmine E. , Santerre J. Paul , Kandel Rita A.
Published: May 2020

Current treatments for degenerative disc disease do not restore full biological functionality of the intervertebral disc (IVD). As a result, regenerative medicine approaches are being developed to generate a biological replacement that when implanted will restore form and function of the degenerated IVD. Tissue‐engineered models to date have focused on the generation of nucleus pulposus and annulus fibrosus IVD components. However, these tissues need to be integrated with a cartilage endplate in order for successful implantation to occur. The purpose of this study was to generate an in vitro annulus fibrosus‐cartilage interface model which would enable us to better understand the biological and biomechanical implications of such interfaces. It was hypothesized that in vitro‐formed outer annulus fibrosus (OAF) and cartilage tissues would integrate in direct‐contact coculture to yield an interface containing extracellular matrix with aspects resembling the native OAF‐CEP interface. In vitro‐formed tissues were generated using bovine OAF cell‐seeded angle‐ply, multi‐lamellated polycarbonate urethane scaffolds and articular chondrocytes, which were then placed in direct‐contact coculture. 2‐week old OAF tissues integrated with 3‐day old cartilage by 1 week of coculture. Immunohistochemical staining of 2‐week interfaces showed that distributions of collagen type I, collagen type II, and aggrecan were similar to the native bovine interface. The apparent tensile strength of the in vitro interface increased significantly between 2 and 4 weeks of coculture. In summary, an annulus fibrosus‐cartilage interface model can be formed in vitro which will facilitate the identification of conditions required to generate an entire tissue‐engineered disc replacement suitable for clinical use.
Imaging of the Fetal Zygomatic Bone
Authors: Gilboa Yinon , Achiron Reuven , Kivilevitch Zvi , Hochberg Alyssa , Bardin Ron , Zalel Yaron , Perlman Sharon
Published: May 2020

Objectives

First arch syndromes are congenital defects caused by failure of neural crest cells to migrate into the first branchial arch. First arch syndrome is classified into 2 main clinical manifestations: Treacher Collins syndrome, characterized by bilateral underdevelopment of the zygomatic bones; and Pierre Robin sequence. The aim of this study was to describe the feasibility of visualization of the fetal zygomatic bone and assess its application in cases referred for features suggestive of first arch syndrome.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted. The feasibility of visualization of the zygomatic bone was performed in 50 sequential fetuses with a normal anatomic scan between 12 and 24 weeks' gestation using 3‐dimensional sonography. Following this, cases referred for targeted scans for suspected first branchial arch syndrome were assessed for the presence or absence of the zygomatic bones.

Results

Visualization of the fetal zygomatic bone was feasible in all low‐risk cases. Cases referred for targeted scans included 11 isolated cases of micrognathia or retrognathia, 3 cases of microtia, and 3 cases of auricular or facial vestiges. Within this group, the zygomatic bones were visualized in all but 2 cases. No associated extrafacial malformations were detected; therefore, this phenotype was consistent with Treacher Collins syndrome.

Conclusions

Prenatal imaging of the zygomatic bones offers a clinically based sonographic approach to cases referred for features suggestive of first arch syndrome and enables differentiation between the 2 main clinical manifestations: Treacher Collins syndrome and Pierre Robin sequence.
Calculation of strong‐collision dissociation rate constants from NASA thermodynamic polynomials
Authors: Smirnov Vladimir N.
Published: May 2020

A new method for calculating low‐pressure strong‐collision rate constants of dissociation and recombination reactions was proposed. The method is based on determining the density of states of the internal degrees of freedom of the reactant molecule by applying the inverse Laplace transform to the respective partition function, which, in turn, is calculated from the thermodynamic properties in the form of NASA polynomials. The proposed model is universal in the sense that the required NASA polynomials can be calculated using molecular properties obtained by various methods, both theoretical and experimental or a combination thereof. In the present study, the NASA polynomials were taken from the available databases or calculated from thermodynamic functions, either tabulated or determined by statistical mechanics in the rigid‐rotor harmonic‐oscillator approximation, with a simple anharmonicity correction introduced when necessary. In addition, a model for calculating the rotational factor is developed and tested. It is based on determination of the centrifugal barrier as a function of the dissociating bond length at a given rotational energy through calculating the principal moments of inertia of the molecule at each step of elongation of the bond. The proposed approach is exemplified for the dissociation of the H2O, HO2, and H2O2 molecules and the corresponding reverse reactions. A comparison with the available experimental data made it possible to estimate the weak‐collision efficiency. At high temperatures, for all the reactions studied, the weak collision efficiency appears to be quite reasonable, whereas, at low temperatures, the situation is unsatisfactory, except perhaps for H2O dissociation. Given that the energy threshold E0 of dissociation reactions is typically well known, the calculated and measured dissociation rate constants are represented and handled in terms of the preexponential factor A(T) in the expression k(T) = A(T)exp(−E0/RT). A new formula for fitting A(T) was proposed: log A(T) = a + b(1000/T) + c(1000/T)p, which turned out to be a good approximation for the preexponential factors of not only the rate constants but also the equilibrium constants.
Global well‐posedness and large time behavior to the two‐phase compressible‐incompressible flow with free boundary
Authors: Yan Niannian , Zhao Bin
Published: May 2020

In present paper, the free boundary value problem to the two‐phase compressible‐incompressible flow with surface tension is investigated. The global well‐posedness and the exponential decay to the steady state are obtained if the initial data are perturbated around the stationary state.
Low AMY1 Copy Number Is Cross‐Sectionally Associated to an Inflammation‐Related Lipidomics Signature in Overweight and Obese Individuals
Authors: Mayneris‐Perxachs Jordi , Mousa Aya , Naderpoor Negar , Fernández‐Real José‐Manuel , de Courten Barbora
Published: May 2020

Scope

Reduced amylase 1 (AMY1) copy numbers are associated with obesity, insulin resistance, and inflammation. Although mechanisms linking AMY1 copy number with metabolic disorders are poorly understood, recent findings suggest that lipids play a key role.

Methods and results

Plasma lipidomic signatures associated with AMY1 copy number are explored in 57 non‐diabetic overweight/obese subjects aged 18–60. Serum amylase and inflammatory cytokines levels are also measured. AMY1 copy number is strongly associated with the serum amylase concentration. Participants are divided into low‐(≤4) and high‐(>4) AMY1 carriers based on the median. Low‐AMY1 carriers have higher BMI and fat mass. They also have higher levels of dihexosylceramides (R = −0.27, p = 0.044), cholesterol esters (CE) (R = −0.32, p = 0.020), alkylphosphatidylcholines [PC(O)] (R = −0.33, p = 0.014), and sphingomyelins (SM) (R = −0.38, p = 0.005). From 459 lipid species, 28 differ between low‐ and high‐AMY1 carriers. These include CE species with long‐chain PUFA; PC(O) and PC plasmalogens containing arachidonic acid; and PC, mono‐, di‐, and tri‐hexosylceramides, and SM containing saturated fatty acids (mainly C16:0 and C20:0). This lipidomic signature is strongly associated with inflammatory cytokines, which are also negatively associated with the AMY1 copy number.

Conclusion

A lipidomics signature associated with low AMY1 copy numbers is revealed, which is linked to obesity and chronic low‐grade inflammation.
High spectrum compression scheme based on DNN post equalization for multiband quadrature dual‐quaternary coded FTN CAP 49QAM signals in visible light communication system
Authors: Ha Yinaer , Niu Wenqing , Chi Nan
Published: May 2020

In this article, we utilize the Faster‐Than‐Nyquist (FTN) mechanism combined with the deep neural network (DNN) nonlinear post‐equalization scheme to achieve spectrum compression of the multiband carrierless amplitude phase (CAP) signal in the case of a fixed channel spacing for visible light communication (VLC) system. We found that the number of input layer nodes plays a decisive role in the DNN equalization effect. And a 1.26 Gbps FTN CAP 49QAM VLC system over 1 m free space transmission is successfully demonstrated. We reduced the normalized bandwidth of the CAP 16QAM signal for each sub‐band from 1.05 to 0.9 after quadrature dual‐quaternary (QDQ) coding combined with DNN post‐equalizer, and the total bandwidth of three bands is compressed from 315 MHz to 270 MHz. The spectrum compression ratio is 14.29% while ensuring BER below 7% FEC threshold (3.8e−3), and the spectral efficiency (SE) is 4.67 b/s/Hz. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time achieving such high compression ratio in Gb/s level DNN based multiband FTN CAP signals in VLC system.
Using Simulation Modeling to Guide the Design of the Girl Scouts Fierce & Fit Program
Authors: Ferguson Marie C. , Morgan Matthew J. , O’Shea Kelly J. , Winch Lucas , Siegmund Sheryl S. , Solano Gonzales Mario , Randall Samuel , Hertenstein Daniel L. , Montague Valerie , Woodberry Ayanna , Cassatt Trish , Lee Bruce Y.
Published: May 2020

Objective

The study aim was to help the Girl Scouts of Central Maryland evaluate, quantify, and potentially modify the Girl Scouts Fierce & Fit program.

Methods

From 2018 to 2019, our Public Health Informatics, Computational, and Operations Research team developed a computational simulation model representing the 250 adolescent girls participating in the Fierce & Fit program and how their diets and physical activity affected their BMI and subsequent outcomes, including costs.

Results

Changing the Fierce & Fit program from a 6‐week program meeting twice a week, with 5 minutes of physical activity each session, to a 12‐week program meeting twice a week with 30 minutes of physical activity saved an additional $84,828 ($80,130‐$89,526) in lifetime direct medical costs, $81,365 ($76,528‐$86,184) in lifetime productivity losses, and 7.85 (7.38‐8.31) quality‐adjusted life‐years. The cost‐benefit of implementing this program was $95,943. Based on these results, the Girl Scouts of Central Maryland then implemented these changes in the program.

Conclusions

This is an example of using computational modeling to help evaluate and revise the design of a program aimed at increasing physical activity among girls.
Carlsbad Desalination Plant Staff Shelter in Place to Produce Safe Water During COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Jones Jessica
Published: May 2020

In the semiarid San Diego region, significant efforts have been under way to enhance water supply diversification for several years. Most of the region's potable water is imported from Northern California and the Colorado River, with the notable exception of the Claude “Bud” Lewis Carlsbad Desalination Plant.
Wash‐free, peptide‐based fluorogenic probes for microbial imaging
Authors: Baibek Assel , Üçüncü Muhammed , Blackburn Elizabeth A. , Bradley Mark , Lilienkampf Annamaria
Published: May 2020

Peptides with pan‐antimicrobial affinity were synthesized and decorated with environmentally sensitive fluorophores nitrobenzoxadiazole (green) and merocyanine (red). The labeling efficacies against a range of clinically relevant fungal and Gram‐negative and positive bacterial species (Candida albicans, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus) were explored. The fluorogenic probes containing exclusively l or d‐amino acids showed rapid and efficient labeling of all microbial species, whereas probes with a mixture of l or d‐amino acids failed to label fungi or bacteria, highlighting the importance of the α‐helical peptide structure for interaction with the microbial cell membrane. Importantly, the nature of the dye allowed fluorescence detection/labeling without the need for a wash step, paving the way for direct application of the probes.
Corneal stromal stem cells restore transparency after N2 injury in mice
Authors: Ghoubay Djida , Borderie Marie , Grieve Kate , Martos Raphaël , Bocheux Romain , Nguyen Thu-Mai , Callard Patrice , Chédotal Alain , Borderie Vincent M.
Published: May 2020

Corneal scarring associated with various corneal conditions is a leading cause of blindness worldwide. The present study aimed to test the hypothesis that corneal stromal stem cells have a therapeutic effect and are able to restore the extracellular matrix organization and corneal transparency in vivo. We first developed a mouse model of corneal stromal scar induced by liquid nitrogen (N2) application. We then reversed stromal scarring by injecting mouse or human corneal stromal stem cells in injured cornea. To characterize the mouse model developed in this study and the therapeutic effect of corneal stromal stem cells, we used a combination of in vivo (slit lamp, optical coherence tomography, in vivo confocal microscopy, optical coherence tomography shear wave elastography, and optokinetic tracking response) and ex vivo (full field optical coherence microscopy, flow cytometry, transmission electron microscopy, and histology) techniques. The mouse model obtained features early inflammation, keratocyte apoptosis, keratocyte transformation into myofibroblasts, collagen type III synthesis, impaired stromal ultrastructure, corneal stromal haze formation, increased corneal rigidity, and impaired visual acuity. Injection of stromal stem cells in N2-injured cornea resulted in improved corneal transparency associated with corneal stromal stem cell migration and growth in the recipient stroma, absence of inflammatory response, recipient corneal epithelial cell growth, decreased collagen type III stromal content, restored stromal ultrastructure, decreased stromal haze, decreased corneal rigidity, and improved vision. Our study demonstrates the ability of corneal stromal stem cells to promote regeneration of transparent stromal tissue after corneal scarring induced by liquid nitrogen.

Significance statement Corneal scarring is a result of many corneal disorders, including infections, trauma, and genetic diseases, and one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide. Corneal stromal stem cells can be easily retrieved and cultured from patient or donor eyes. They can potentially regenerate the corneal stromal extracellular matrix, which is essential for maintaining corneal transparency. Results of this study demonstrated the therapeutic effect of these adult stem cells in a mouse model of corneal opacification.
Protein‐Based Artificial Nanosystems in Cancer Therapy
Authors: Zhang Nan , Mei Kun , Guan Ping , Hu Xiaoling , Zhao Yanli
Published: May 2020

Proteins, like actors, play different roles in specific applications. In the past decade, significant achievements have been made in protein‐engineered biomedicine for cancer therapy. Certain proteins such as human serum albumin, working as carriers for drug/photosensitizer delivery, have entered clinical use due to their long half‐life, biocompatibility, biodegradability, and inherent nonimmunogenicity. Proteins with catalytic abilities are promising as adjuvant agents for other therapeutic modalities or as anticancer drugs themselves. These catalytic proteins are usually defined as enzymes with high biological activity and substrate specificity. However, clinical applications of these kinds of proteins remain rare due to protease‐induced denaturation and weak cellular permeability. Based on the characteristics of different proteins, tailor‐made protein‐based nanosystems could make up for their individual deficiencies. Therefore, elaborately designed protein‐based nanosystems, where proteins serve as drug carriers, adjuvant agents, or therapeutic drugs to make full use of their intrinsic advantages in cancer therapy, are reviewed. Up‐to‐date progress on research in the field of protein‐based nanomedicine is provided.
Interface‐Strengthened Polymer Nanocomposites with Reduced Dielectric Relaxation Exhibit High Energy Density at Elevated Temperatures Utilizing a Facile Dual Crosslinked Network
Authors: Liu Jie , Shen Zhonghui , Xu Wenhan , Zhang Yu , Qian Xiaoshi , Jiang Zhenhua , Zhang Yunhe
Published: May 2020

High‐temperature ceramic/polymer nanocomposites with large energy density as the reinforcement exhibit great potential for energy storage applications in modern electronic and electrical power systems. Yet, a general drawback is that the increased dielectric constant is usually achieved at the cost of decreased breakdown strength, thus leading to moderate improvement of energy density and even displaying a marked deterioration under high temperatures and high electric fields. Herein, a new strategy is reported to simultaneously improve breakdown strength and discharged energy density by a step‐by‐step, controllable dual crosslinking process, which constructs a strengthened interface as well as reduces molecular chains relaxation under elevated temperatures. Great breakdown strength and discharged energy density is achieved in the dual crosslinked network BT‐BCB@DPAES nanocomposites at elevated temperatures when compared to noninterfacial‐strengthened, BT/DPAES composites, i.e., an enhanced breakdown strength and a discharged energy density of 442 MV m−1 and 3.1 J cm−3, increasing by 66% and 162%, and a stable cyclic performance over 10 000 cycles is demonstrated at 150 °C. Moreover, the enhancement through the synergy of two crosslinked networks is rationalized via a comprehensive phase‐field model for the composites. This work offers a strategy to enhance the electric storage performances of composites at high temperatures.
Luminescent Europium Complex‐Grafted Octenyl Succinylated Starch Nanoparticles
Authors: Mondragón Margarita , Desirena Haggeo , Moreno‐Ruiz Luis Alberto , Bello‐Pérez Luis Arturo
Published: May 2020

Novel luminescent starch nanoparticles are obtained by first grafting the Eu(TTA)3Phen‐NH2 complex (Eu, europium; TTA, 2‐thenoyltrifluoracetonato; Phen, 1,10‐phenanthroline) onto octenyl succinic anhydride (OSA)‐modified corn starch and then using a nanoprecipitation method. The changes in the Fourier transform infrared spectra show that the Eu complex is grafted onto the OSA‐starch via amide bond formation. Transmission electron microscopy images show nanoparticles of irregular shape, with sizes in the range 35–270 nm. Eu complex‐grafted OSA‐starch nanoparticles (EuC‐OSA‐St‐NPs) exhibit red luminescence emission with long luminescence lifetimes. Their good biocompatibility supports their use for biomedical applications.
A function of fascin1 in the colony formation of mouse embryonic stem cells
Authors: Fan Yan-Lei , Li Bo , Zhao Hong-Ping , Zhao Hu-Cheng , Feng Xi-Qiao
Published: May 2020

Fascin1 is known to participate in the migration of cancer cells by binding to actin filaments. Recent studies evidenced that fascin1 also modulates processes such as the tumorigenesis and maintenance of pluripotency genes in cancer stem cells. However, the function of fascin1 in embryonic stem cells remains unclear. In this article, we report that fascin1 is highly expressed and widely distributed in mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs), which are regulated by JAK-STAT3 and β-catenin. We found that the overexpression of fascin1 impairs the formation of mESC colonies via the downregulation of intercellular adhesion molecules, and that mimicking the dephosphorylated mutation of fascin1 or inhibiting phosphorylation with Gö6983 significantly enhances colony formation. Hyperphosphorylated fascin1 can promote the maintenance of pluripotency in mESCs via nuclear localization and suppressing DNA methyltransferase expression. Our findings demonstrate a novel function of fascin1, as a vital regulator, in the colony formation and pluripotency of mESCs and provide insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying embryonic stem cell self-organization and development in vitro.
The effect of SNP rs400827589 in exon 2 of the MTNR1B gene on reproductive seasonality and litter size in sheep
Authors: He Xiaoyun , Zhang Zhuangbiao , Chu Mingxing
Published: May 2020

In mammals, the melatonin receptor gene has been widely studied since it has a great influence on reproductive traits. However, little is known about the association between polymorphism of the coding region of the MTNR1B gene and year‐round oestrus or the litter size in Small Tail Han sheep. To better understand the effects of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs400827589 in MTNR1B, a population polymorphism analysis was conducted using genotyping data in 45 sheep breeds around the world. The results indicated that TT was the dominant genotype in all sheep breeds. The associations of this SNP with reproductive seasonality and litter size in Small Tail Han sheep showed rs400827589 was correlated with fecundity as assessed by reproductive seasonality and litter size (p < .05). Bioinformatics analysis indicated the change in amino acid from Ile to Leu may affect the function of the MTNR1B protein by impacting the secondary and tertiary protein structures. The present results demonstrate that rs400827589 could be used in the marker‐assisted selection of the litter size in Small Tail Han sheep.
Coupling Tracking Technologies to Maximize Efficiency in Avian Research
Authors: Kirol Christopher P. , Kesler Dylan C. , Walker Brett L. , Fedy Bradley C.
Published: May 2020

Direct marking and tracking of wildlife using telemetry is widespread and critical to understanding many aspects of wildlife ecology. For most species, researchers must select between multiple tracking technologies that represent trade‐offs among data requirements, mass, and cost. Options tend to be more limited for smaller, volant species. We developed and tested a unique combination of a store‐on‐board Global Positioning System logger with an independent very‐high‐frequency (VHF) tag (hereafter, hybrid tag) fitted on the greater sage‐grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) with a modified harness design in northeastern Wyoming, USA, 2017–2018. We compared hybrid tags with other tracking technologies commonly used in avian research, namely VHF and Argos satellite relay tags. Given our research objectives, that required both frequent location data and field‐based observational data, we found the hybrid tags were the most cost‐effective option and capable of collecting more location data compared with Argos tags because of power savings associated with data transmission. Cost savings allowed us to avoid sacrificing sample size while still obtaining high‐resolution location data in addition to field‐based observational data such as the presence of chicks. We believe our hybrid tags and harness design would be beneficial to research on other avian species of comparable size to the greater sage‐grouse and those that are relatively localized year‐round, including many other Galliformes. © 2020 The Wildlife Society.
Extracting [Pd@Sn9]4– and [Rh@Pb9]4– Clusters from their Binary Alloys Using “Metal Scissors”
Authors: Boyko Marina , Hlukhyy Viktor , Jin Hanpeng , Dums Jasmin , Fässler Thomas F.
Published: May 2020

The search for novel ternary intermetallic compounds with specific structures is still a challenge. We found that the two‐step synthesis giving a typical alloy in the first step followed by the reaction of this alloy with alkali metals is a promising route. The intermetallic compounds K12Pd0.47Sn17 and K4RhPb9 were synthesized by high‐temperature reactions of preformed Pd‐Sn and Rh‐Pb alloys with K acting as “metal scissors” and were characterized by means of single crystal and powder X‐ray diffractometry. The salt‐like ternary phases K12Pd0.47Sn17 and K4RhPb9 contain novel endohedrally filled intermetalloid clusters [Pd@Sn9]4– and [Rh@Pb9]4–, respectively. The crystal packing of the products corresponds to filled variants of the binary Zintl phases K12Sn17 and K4Pb9, respectively. The crystal structure of K12Pd0.47Sn17 can be regarded as a hierarchical replacement variant of the hexagonal Laves phase MgZn2, with [Pd@Sn9]4–/[Sn9]4– and [Sn4]4– on Mg and Zn positions, respectively, whereas the packing of [Rh@Pb9]4– clusters in K4RhPb9 is hcp. K12Pd0.47Sn17 was characterized by Raman spectroscopy. For the first time Raman modes typical for endohedrally filled [Pd@Sn9]4– clusters are observed and in accordance with quantum‐chemical calculations. In addition Raman spectroscopy shows also the presence of filled Pd@Sn9 clusters in a phase of nominal composition “Na12Pd2Sn17”. The results are discussed with respect to the volume increase due the incorporation of transition metal atoms.
Regional differences in perceived oral dryness as determined with a newly developed questionnaire, the Regional Oral Dryness Inventory
Authors: Assy Zainab , Jager D. H. J. , Mashhour E. , Bikker F. J. , Brand H. S.
Published: May 2020

Objectives

Several questionnaires, such as the internationally validated and frequently used Xerostomia Inventory (XI), have been developed to quantify the subjective feeling of a dry mouth. These questionnaires quantify the overall perception of dry mouth but lack the possibility to differentiate between various intra-oral regions. In this light, a novel questionnaire, the Regional Oral Dryness Inventory (RODI), which quantifies the severity of dryness at various locations in the mouth, was evaluated.

Materials and methods

A retrospective case report study was designed. Data were collected from patients who visited the saliva clinic for Special Care Dentistry in Amsterdam. Data, including the saliva secretion rates, RODI scores, the Xerostomia Inventory (XI) score, and Clinical Oral Dryness Score (CODS), were extracted from the electronic health record system Oase Dental.

Results

A total of 337 patients participated in this study with an average age of 54 ± 17 years. The majority of the patients were female (68.5%). The perceived dryness as determined by the RODI was the highest for the posterior palate and the lowest for the floor of the mouth. The highest correlations were found between the corresponding regions in the RODI and regionally related individual items of the XI and CODS.

Conclusion

There is a significant difference in dry-mouth feeling at different intra-oral locations.

Clinical relevance

Regional evaluation of xerostomia with RODI might improve diagnosis of xerostomia by helping to discriminate between different potential causes of oral dryness in patients and for evaluating the efficacy of mouth-moistening products. RODI is highly accessible and easy to perform in dental practices during routine clinical assessment.
Starch nanoparticles prepared by enzymatic hydrolysis and self-assembly of short-chain glucans
Authors: Oh Seon-Min , Lee Byung-Hoo , Seo Dong-Ho , Choi Hyun-Wook , Kim Byung-Yong , Baik Moo-Yeol
Published: May 2020

Enzymatic hydrolysis and self-assembly are considered promising methods for preparation of starch nanoparticles (SNPs) because they are environmentally friendly, and time- and cost-effective. These methods are based on the self-assembly of short-chain glucans released from the α-1,6 bonds in amylopectin. Since their discovery, many studies have described the structural and physicochemical properties of self-assembled SNPs. Self-assembled SNPs can be prepared by two methods: using only the soluble portion containing the short-chain glucans, or using the whole hydrolyzate including both insoluble and soluble fractions. Although the structural and physical properties of self-assembled SNPs can be attributed to the composition of the hydrolyzates that participate in self-assembly, this aspect has not yet been discussed. This review focuses on SNPs self-assembled with only soluble short-chain glucans and addresses their characteristics, including formation mechanisms as well as structural and physicochemical properties, compared with SNPs prepared with total hydrolyzates.
Chemotherapy use near the end-of-life in patients with metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Edman Kessler Luisa , Sigfridsson Johnny , Hatzidaki Dora , Bergh Jonas , Foukakis Theodoros , Georgoulias Vasilios , Matikas Alexios
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Very few data are available regarding the use of chemotherapy in patients with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) near the end-of-life, i.e., the final month. The aim of this study was to provide a descriptive analysis of its use in two different European geographic areas (Sweden and Greece).

Materials and methods

We retrospectively collected data regarding clinicopathologic characteristics, survival, and use of chemotherapy during the final 30 days of life using two sources: for the Swedish cohort, patients who were diagnosed with MBC in 2010–2015 were identified from the Stockholm-Gotland population-based Breast Cancer Registry and treatment data were collected using hospital charts. For the Greek cohort, patients with MBC were identified from hospital charts at two hospitals in Athens and Crete.

Results

In the Swedish cohort, 1571 patients were identified; median overall survival was 16.96 months (95% CI 15.4–18.4). 23.2% of patients were treated with chemotherapy during the final month of life, with higher rates among patients ≤ 60 years (p < 0.001). Per OS monotherapy such as capecitabine or vinorelbine was most commonly used. In contrast, median OS in the Greek cohort (n = 966) was 49.8 months (95% CI 45.6–54.1) and 46.5% of patients received chemotherapy at the end-of-life, most commonly intravenous drug combinations. In multivariable analysis, age and albumin levels were statistically significantly associated with chemotherapy use in the Swedish cohort.

Conclusion

Chemotherapy use near the end-of-life was common, which might negatively impact patient quality of life.
A Thematic Review on Research Integrity and Research Supervision: Relationships, Crises and Critical Messages
Authors: Muthanna Abdulghani , Alduais Ahmed
Published: May 2020

This article focuses on reporting the relationship between research integrity and research supervision. Initially, it briefly discusses the positive research supervision. By following a detailed thematic analysis methodology, 66 published sources were compiled, disassembled, reassembled and interpreted. The findings of this study highlight that maintaining research integrity is the responsibility of all, and that more responsibility falls onto the shoulders of instructors and supervisors who need to ethically perform research supervision to maintain further research integrity. Further, they show crises related to how research supervision is at danger, and how danger at supervision exists. The insights reported in this study help raise further awareness towards effective research supervision that in return and in effect enhances the overall research integrity. The review also concludes with three critical messages (for higher education policymakers, administrators, instructor/supervisors, and students/supervisees) for a practical implementation.
Structure and electrical resistivity of individual carbonised natural and man-made cellulose fibres
Authors: Gindl-Altmutter Wolfgang , Czabany Ivana , Unterweger Christoph , Gierlinger Notburga , Xiao Nannan , Bodner Sabine C. , Keckes Jozef
Published: May 2020

Carbon fibres were produced from two natural and two man-made cellulose fibres, respectively, in a high-temperature carbonisation process. The structure of the fibres was analysed by means of wide-angle X-ray scattering and Raman spectroscopy. It was found that longitudinal shrinkage of the fibres during carbonisation is correlated with the degree of orientation of cellulose crystals as determined by wide-angle X-ray scattering. Numerous micro-scale defects were found in carbonised natural cellulose fibres, particularly hemp, whereas the structural integrity of carbonised man-made cellulose was better preserved. Both Raman spectroscopy and wide-angle X-ray scattering revealed a trend of diminishing electrical resistivity with increasing structural (graphitic) order in the fibres. Overall, the electrical resistivity of cellulose-derived carbon fibres was between 40 and 70 Ω µm, which exceeds the resistivity of fossil-based carbon fibre by a factor ten.
Investigation of the deuteron induced nuclear reaction cross sections on lutetium up to 50 MeV: review of production routes for 177Lu, 175Hf and 172Hf via charged particle activation
Authors: Tárkányi F. , Takács S. , Ditrói F. , Hermanne A. , Adam-Rebeles R. , Ignatyuk A. V.
Published: May 2020

In a systematic study of light charged particle induced nuclear reactions we investigated the excitation functions of deuteron induced nuclear reactions on natural lutetium targets. Experimental excitation functions up to 50 MeV on high purity natLu were determined using the standard stacked foil activation technique. High resolution off-line gamma-ray spectrometry was applied to assess the activity of each foil. From the measured activity direct and/or cumulative elemental cross-section data for production of 171,172,173,175Hf, 171,172,173,174g,176m,177m,177gLu and 169Yb radioisotopes were determined. The experimental data were compared to results of the TALYS theoretical code taken from the TENDL databases and results of our calculations using the ALICE-IPPE-D and the EMPIRE-D codes. No earlier experimental data were found in the literature. Thick target yields for the investigated radionuclides were calculated from the measured excitation functions.
Approximations for the Boundary Crossing Probabilities of Moving Sums of Random Variables
Authors: Noonan Jack , Zhigljavsky Anatoly
Published: May 2020

In this paper we study approximations for the boundary crossing probabilities of moving sums of i.i.d. normal random variables. We approximate a discrete time problem with a continuous time problem allowing us to apply established theory for stationary Gaussian processes. By then subsequently correcting approximations for discrete time, we show that the developed approximations are very accurate even for a small window length. Also, they have high accuracy when the original r.v. are not exactly normal and when the weights in the moving window are not all equal. We then provide accurate and simple approximations for ARL, the average run length until crossing the boundary.
Designing Biodegradable Wafers Based on Poly(L-lactide-co-glycolide) and Poly(glycolide-co-ε-caprolactone) for the Prolonged and Local Release of Idarubicin for the Therapy of Glioblastoma Multiforme
Authors: Turek Artur , Stoklosa Katarzyna , Borecka Aleksandra , Paul-Samojedny Monika , Kaczmarczyk Bożena , Marcinkowski Andrzej , Kasperczyk Janusz
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The blood-brain barrier limits the application of idarubicin in the therapy of glioblastoma multiforme. Biodegradable, intracranial wafers with prolonged release may increase therapy efficiency.

Methods

Blank wafers, wafers containing 5% w/w and 10% w/w of idarubicin were formulated by solution casting from poly(L-lactide-co-glycolide) and poly(glycolide-co-ε-caprolactone). The following methods were used: NMR, GPC, DSC, FTIR, AFM, UV-VIS, and a viability and proliferation assay for idarubicin action (U87MG cell line).

Results

Wafers showed a surface with numerous immersions and hills. A lack of interactions between idarubicin and the copolymers was observed. The substance was entrapped in the matrix and released in two phases for all wafers with the appropriate bolus and maintenance dose. The burst effect was observed for all wafers, however, the biggest bolus for poly(L-lactide-co-glycolide) wafers containing 5% w/w of idarubicin was noted. The stable and steady degradation of poly(glycolide-co-ε-caprolactone) wafers containing 5% w/w of idarubicin ensures the most optimal release profile and high inhibition of proliferation.

Conclusions

Copolymer wafers with idarubicin are an interesting proposition with great potential for the local treatment of glioblastoma multiforme. The release rate and dose may be regulated by the amount and kind of wafers for various effects.
Phase I pharmacological study of continuous chronomodulated capecitabine treatment
Authors: Roosendaal Jeroen , Jacobs Bart A. W. , Pluim Dick , Rosing Hilde , de Vries Niels , van Werkhoven Erik , Nuijen Bastiaan , Beijnen Jos H. , Huitema Alwin D. R. , Schellens Jan H. M. , Marchetti Serena
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Capecitabine is an oral pre-pro-drug of the anti-cancer drug 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). The biological activity of the 5-FU degrading enzyme, dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD), and the target enzyme thymidylate synthase (TS), are subject to circadian rhythmicity in healthy volunteers. The aim of this study was to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD), dose-limiting toxicity (DLT), safety, pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of capecitabine therapy adapted to this circadian rhythm (chronomodulated therapy).

Methods

Patients aged ≥18 years with advanced solid tumours potentially benefitting from capecitabine therapy were enrolled. A classical dose escalation 3 + 3 design was applied. Capecitabine was administered daily without interruptions. The daily dose was divided in morning and evening doses that were administered at 9:00 h and 24:00 h, respectively. The ratio of the morning to the evening dose was 3:5 (morning: evening). PK and PD were examined on treatment days 7 and 8.

Results

A total of 25 patients were enrolled. The MTD of continuous chronomodulated capecitabine therapy was established at 750/1250 mg/m2/day, and was generally well tolerated. Circadian rhythmicity in the plasma PK of capecitabine, dFCR, dFUR and 5-FU was not demonstrated. TS activity was induced and DPD activity demonstrated circadian rhythmicity during capecitabine treatment.

Conclusion

The MTD of continuous chronomodulated capecitabine treatment allows for a 20% higher dose intensity compared to the approved regimen (1250 mg/m2 bi-daily on day 1–14 of every 21-day cycle). Chronomodulated treatment with capecitabine is promising and could lead to improved tolerability and efficacy of capecitabine.