bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accuracy of Buffy Coat in the Diagnosis of Disseminated Histoplasmosis in AIDS-Patients in an Endemic Area of Brazil
Authors: Leitão Terezinha M. J. Silva , Oliveira Filho Antonio M. P. , Sousa Filho José Evaldo P. , Tavares Bruno M. , Mesquita Jacó R. L. , Farias Luís Arthur B. G. , Mota Rosa S. , Nacher Mathieu , Damasceno Lisandra S.
Published: June 2019

The buffy coat is obtained routinely for disseminated histoplamosis (DH) diagnosis in Ceará, Brazil. The aim of this study is to describe the accuracy of staining smears for Histoplasma in the buffy coat of AIDS-patients with DH. From 2012–2013, all results of stained buffy coat smears and culture for fungi performed at São José Hospital were recorded. In total, 489 buffy coats of 361 patients were studied; 19/361 (5.3%; 95%CI = 2.9–7.6%) had positive direct examination stained smears for Histoplasma and 61/361 (16.9%; 95%CI = 13.0–20.8%) had growth in culture. For those with positive Histoplasma cultures, the CD4 count was significantly lower (139.3 vs. 191.7cells/µL; p = 0.014) than others, and death was 18%. The sensitivity and specificity of stained smears was 25.9% and 100%, respectively. A second test, performed up to 36 days from the first one, increased the sensitivity of stained smears to 32.2%. Stained smears of buffy coat have low accuracy; nonetheless, they are easy to perform and can give a quick diagnosis in low-resource endemic areas. Despite the decrease in mortality, it is not yet to the low levels observed in areas that have better and more efficient methods.
Mesh-Based and Meshfree Reduced Order Phase-Field Models for Brittle Fracture: One Dimensional Problems
Authors: Nguyen Ngoc-Hien , Nguyen Vinh Phu , Wu Jian-Ying , Le Thi-Hong-Hieu , Ding Yan
Published: June 2019

Modelling brittle fracture by a phase-field fracture formulation has now been widely accepted. However, the full-order phase-field fracture model implemented using finite elements results in a nonlinear coupled system for which simulations are very computationally demanding, particularly for parametrized problems when the randomness and uncertainty of material properties are considered. To tackle this issue, we present two reduced-order phase-field models for parametrized brittle fracture problems in this work. The first one is a mesh-based Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (POD) method. Both the Discrete Empirical Interpolation Method (DEIM) and the Matrix Discrete Empirical Interpolation Method ((M)DEIM) are adopted to approximate the nonlinear vectors and matrices. The second one is a meshfree Krigingmodel. For one-dimensional problems, served as proof-of-concept demonstrations, in which Young’s modulus and the fracture energy vary, the POD-based model can speed up the online computations eight-times, and for the Kriging model, the speed-up factor is 1100, albeit with a slightly lower accuracy. Another merit of the Kriging’s model is its non-intrusive nature, as one does not need to modify the full-order model code.
Effect of the Content of Micro-Active Copper Tailing on the Strength and Pore Structure of Cementitious Materials
Authors: Zhang Liming , Liu Songbai , Song Dongsheng
Published: June 2019

This study investigates the effect of micr-oaggregate filling with copper tailing on the pore structure of cement paste containing copper tailing (CPCT). The particle size of the CPCT and the pore structure of CPCT were analyzed by laser particle size analysis and mercury instruction porosimetry (MIP). Results showed that at the early stage of curing time, with increasing copper tailing content, the compressive strength of cement mortar with copper tailing (CMCT) was lower, and the porosity and pore diameter of CPCT were higher and greater; with the extension of curing age, when the content of copper tailing was less than 30%, the compressive strength of CMCT and the porosity of CPCT changed slightly with the increase of the content of copper tailing. However, the maximum hole diameter of CPCT decreased gradually (a curing age between 7 d and 365 d under standard conditions). Scanning electron microscopy analysis showed that at the early stage of cement hydration in the CPCT, the copper tailing did not fill the pores in CPCT well, while in the later stage of cement hydration, the microaggregates of copper tailing filled the pores well and closely combined with the surrounding hydration products. In the later stage of cement hydration, the microaggregate filling of copper tailing was primarily responsible for the strength increase of the CMCT.
Oyster-Derived Zinc-Binding Peptide Modified by Plastein Reaction via Zinc Chelation Promotes the Intestinal Absorption of Zinc
Authors: Li Jianpeng , Gong Chen , Wang Zaiyang , Gao Ruichang , Ren Jiaoyan , Zhou Xiaodong , Wang Haiyan , Xu He , Xiao Feng , Cao Yuhui , Zhao Yuanhui
Published: June 2019

Zinc-binding peptides from oyster (Crassostrea gigas) have potential effects on zinc supplementation. The aim of this study was to prepare efficient zinc-binding peptides from oyster-modified hydrolysates by adding exogenous glutamate according to the plastein reaction and to further explore the zinc absorption mechanism of the peptide-zinc complex (MZ). The optimum conditions for the plastein reaction were as follows: pH 5.0, 40 °C, substrate concentration of 40%, pepsin dosage of 500 U/g, reaction time of 3 h and l-[1-13C]glutamate concentration of 10 mg/mL. The results of 13C isotope labelling suggested that the addition of l-[1-13C]glutamate contributed to the increase in the zinc-binding capacity of the peptide. The hydrophobic interaction was the main mechanism of action of the plastein reaction. Ultraviolet spectra and scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) revealed that the zinc-binding peptide could bind with zinc and form MZ. Furthermore, MZ could significantly enhance zinc bioavailability in the presence of phytic acid, compared to the commonly used ZnSO4. Additionally, MZ significantly promoted the intestinal absorption of zinc mainly through two pathways, the zinc ion channel and the small peptide transport pathway. Our work attempted to increase the understanding of the zinc absorption mechanism of MZ and to support the potential application of MZ as a supplementary medicine.
DSPE-PEG Modification of α-Conotoxin TxID
Authors: Zhao Weinan , Xiong Yang , Zhangsun Dongting , Luo Sulan
Published: June 2019

In order to improve stability of a peptide marine drug lead, α-conotoxin TxID, we synthesized and modified TxID at the N-terminal with DSPE-PEG-NHS by a nucleophilic substitution reaction to prepare the DSPE-PEG-TxID for the first time. The reaction conditions, including solvent, ratio, pH, and reaction time, were optimized systematically and the optimal one was reacted in dimethyl formamide at pH 8.2 with triethylamine at room temperature for 120 h. The in vitro stabilities in serum, simulated gastric juice, and intestinal fluid were tested, and improved dramatically compared with TxID. The PEG-modified peptide was functionally tested on α3β4 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) heterologously expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes. The DSPE-PEG-TxID showed an obvious inhibition effect on α3β4 nAChR. All in all, the PEG modification of TxID was improved in stability, resistance to enzymatic degradation, and may prolong the half-life in vivo, which may pave the way for the future application in smoking cessation and drug rehabilitation, as well as small cell lung cancer.
Preventive Effects of Fucoidan and Fucoxanthin on Hyperuricemic Rats Induced by Potassium Oxonate
Authors: Chau Yung-Tsung , Chen Hsin-Yuan , Lin Po-Han , Hsia Shih-Min
Published: June 2019

The purpose of this study was to investigate the preventive effects of fucoidan (Fc) and fucoxanthin (Fx) on hyperuricemic rats. Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were randomly assigned to seven groups: a control group, a hyperuricemia (HUA) group, low- and high-dose Fx groups, a Fc group, a combination Fc and Fx group, and a positive control group. Three weeks after the interventions, each group was given potassium oxonate (PO) and hypoxanthine (HX) to induce HUA in all groups except for the control group, and the rats were then sacrificed. Blood and urine were analyzed for biochemical properties, and differences in urine volume were determined. Livers and kidneys were collected to analyze xanthine oxidase (XO) activity and the expression of uric acid (UA) transporter-related proteins (GLUT9, ABCG2, OAT1, URAT1). The results show that HUA was successfully induced by PO/HX after 4 h of administration. The activity of XO was significantly reduced by a combination of Fc and Fx. In the combination group, both ABCG2 and OAT1 increased significantly, whereas GLUT9 and URAT1 decreased significantly. In summary, the combination of Fc and Fx can inhibit the activity of XO in the liver and regulate the expression of proteins related to UA transporter in the kidney to reduce the UA level in serum.
The Importance of the Mediastinal Triangle in Traumatic Lesions of the Aorta
Authors: Gulias-Soidan Daniel , Fraga-Manteiga Daniel , Mosquera-Rodriguez Víctor X , Marini-Diaz Milagros , Lopez-Bargiela Paula , González-Martín Cristina , Balboa-Barreiro Vanesa
Published: June 2019

Background: Trauma-induced aortic injuries continue to be an important factor in morbimortality in patients with blunt trauma. Objectives: To determine the characteristics of aortic lesions in patients with closed thoracic trauma and associated thoracic injuries. Methods: Multicenter cohort study conducted during the years 1994 to 2014 in the radiology service in the University Hospital Complex of A Coruña. Patients >15 years with closed thoracic trauma were included. Sociodemographic and clinical variables were studied in order to determine the lesion cause, location, and degree. Results: We analyzed 232 patients with a mean age of 46.9 ± 18.7 years, consisting of 81.4% males. The most frequent location was at the level of the isthmus (55.2%). The most frequent causes of injury were traffic accidents followed by falls. Patients with aortic injury had more esophageal, airway, and cardiopericardial lesions. More than 85% of the patients had lung parenchyma and/or chest wall injury, which was more prevalent among those who did not have an aortic lesion. Conclusions: Patients with trauma due to traffic accidents or being run over presented three times more risk of aortic injury than from other causes. Those with an aortic lesion also had a higher frequency of cardiopericardial, airway, and esophageal lesions.
An Updated Overview of Metabolomic Profile Changes in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Ran Nan , Pang Zhiqiang , Gu Yinuo , Pan He , Zuo Xu , Guan Xuewa , Yuan Yuze , Wang Ziyan , Guo Yingqiao , Cui Zixu , Wang Fang
Published: June 2019

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a common and heterogeneous respiratory disease, is characterized by persistent and incompletely reversible airflow limitation. Metabolomics is applied to analyze the difference of metabolic profile based on the low-molecular-weight metabolites (<1 kDa). Emerging metabolomic analysis may provide insights into the pathogenesis and diagnosis of COPD. This review aims to summarize the alteration of metabolites in blood/serum/plasma, urine, exhaled breath condensate, lung tissue samples, etc. from COPD individuals, thereby uncovering the potential pathogenesis of COPD according to the perturbed metabolic pathways. Metabolomic researches have indicated that the dysfunctions of amino acid metabolism, lipid metabolism, energy production pathways, and the imbalance of oxidations and antioxidations might lead to local and systematic inflammation by activating the Nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells signaling pathway and releasing inflammatory cytokines, like interleutin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α, and IL-8. In addition, they might cause protein malnutrition and oxidative stress and contribute to the development and exacerbation of COPD.
Synthesis and Cytotoxicity of 7,9-O-Linked Macrocyclic C-Seco Taxoids
Authors: Zhao Yu , Wang Tian-En , Mills Alberto , Gago Federico , Fang Wei-Shuo
Published: June 2019

A series of novel 7,9-O-linked macrocyclic taxoids together with modification at the C2 position were synthesized, and their cytotoxicities against drug-sensitive and P-glycoprotein and βIII-tubulin overexpressed drug-resistant cancer cell lines were evaluated. It is demonstrated that C-seco taxoids conformationally constrained via carbonate containing-linked macrocyclization display increased cytotoxicity on drug-resistant tumors overexpressing both βIII and P-gp, among which compound 22b, bearing a 2-m-methoxybenzoyl group together with a five-atom linker, was identified as the most potent. Molecular modeling suggested the improved cytotoxicity of 22b results from enhanced favorable interactions with the T7 loop region of βIII.
Four New Flavonoids Isolated from the Aerial Parts of Cadaba rotundifolia Forssk. (Qadab)
Authors: Abdulaziz Al-Hamoud Gadah , Saud Orfali Raha , Sugimoto Sachiko , Yamano Yoshi , Alothyqi Nafee , Mohammed Alzahrani Ali , Matsunami Katsuyoshi
Published: June 2019

Cadaba rotundifolia (Forssk.) (family: Capparaceae; common name: Qadab) is one of four species that grow in the Red Sea costal region in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The roots and leaves of C. rotundifolia is traditionally used to treat tumors and abscesses in Sudan. A previous phytochemical study of the roots yielded a quaternary alkaloid, but no report on chemical constituents of the aerial parts of the C. rotundifolia growing in Saudi Arabia has been issued so far. Oxidative stress and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are thought as causal factors in many degenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, atherosclerosis and aging. In this study, a total of twenty compounds, including four previously undescribed acylated kaempferol glucosides, were isolated from the aerial parts of C. rotundifolia collected in Saudi Arabia. These new compounds were identified as kaempferol 3-O-[2-O-(trans-feruloyl)-3-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl]-β-d-glucopyranoside (1), kaempferol 3-O-β-neohesperidoside-7-O-[2-O-(cis-p-coumaroyl)-3-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl]-β-d-glucopyranoside (2), kaempferol 3-O-[2,6-di-O-α-l-rhamnopyranosyl]-β-d-glucopyranoside-7-O-[6-O-(trans-feruloyl)]-β-d-glucopyranoside (3) and kaempferol 3-O-[2,6-di-O-α-l-rhamnopyranosyl]-β-d-glucopyranoside-7-O-[6-O-(trans-p-coumaroyl)]-β-d-glucopyranoside (4). Their structures were established based on UV-visible, 1D, 2D NMR, and HR-ESI-MS analyses. Of the assayed compounds, 17 and 18 showed potent radical scavenging activity with IC50 values of 14.5 and 11.7 µM, respectively, and inhibitory activity toward AGEs together with compound 7 with IC50 values 96.5, 34.9 and 85.5 µM, respectively.
Pressure-Induced Polymorphism of Caprolactam: A Neutron Diffraction Study
Authors: Hutchison Ian B. , Bull Craig L. , Marshall William G. , Urquhart Andrew J. , Oswald Iain D.H.
Published: June 2019

Caprolactam, a precursor to nylon-6 has been investigated as part of our studies into the polymerization of materials at high pressure. Single-crystal X-ray and neutron powder diffraction data have been used to explore the high-pressure phase behavior of caprolactam; two new high pressure solid forms were observed. The transition between each of the forms requires a substantial rearrangement of the molecules and we observe that the kinetic barrier to the conversion can aid retention of phases beyond their region of stability. Form II of caprolactam shows a small pressure region of stability between 0.5 GPa and 0.9 GPa with Form III being stable from 0.9 GPa to 5.4 GPa. The two high-pressure forms have a catemeric hydrogen-bonding pattern compared with the dimer interaction observed in ambient pressure Form I. The interaction between the chains has a marked effect on the directions of maximal compressibility in the structure. Neither of the high-pressure forms can be recovered to ambient pressure and there is no evidence of any polymerization occurring.
The EFSA Health Claim on Olive Oil Polyphenols: Acid Hydrolysis Validation and Total Hydroxytyrosol and Tyrosol Determination in Italian Virgin Olive Oils
Authors: Bellumori Maria , Cecchi Lorenzo , Innocenti Marzia , Clodoveo Maria Lisa , Corbo Filomena , Mulinacci Nadia
Published: June 2019

The health claims of olive oil represent an important marketing lever in raising the willingness to pay for a product, but world producers of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) do not take advantage of it because there are still obstacles to their use. Among these, one issue is the lack of an official method for determination of all free and linked forms derived from secoiridoidic structures of hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol. In this study, different acidic hydrolytic procedures for analyzing the linked forms were tested. The best method was validated and then applied to more than 100 EVOOs. The content of oleuropein and ligstroside derivatives in EVOOs was indirectly evaluated comparing the amount of phenols before and after hydrolysis. After acidic hydrolysis, a high content of total tyrosol was found in most of the EVOOs. The use of a suitable corrective factor for the evaluation of hydroxytyrosol allows an accurate determination only using pure tyrosol as a standard. Further knowledge on the concentration of total hydroxytyrosol will assist in forecasting the resistance of oils against aging, its antioxidant potential and to better control its quality over time.
Reducing the Crystallite Size of Spherulites in PEO-Based Polymer Nanocomposites Mediated by Carbon Nanodots and Ag Nanoparticles
Authors: Abdullah Ranjdar , Aziz Shujahadeen , Mamand Soran , Hassan Aso , Hussein Sarkawt , Kadir M.
Published: June 2019

The PEO-based polymer nanocomposites were prepared by solution cast method. Green approaches were used for synthesis of carbon nanodots (CNDs) and silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs). It was found that the crystallite size of spherulites of PEO was greatly scarified upon incorporation of CNDs and Ag NPs. In the present work, in opposition to other studies, broadening of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) peak of metallic Ag NPs in PEO-based polymer composites was observed rather than peak tuning. Various techniques, such as powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), SEM, UV–Vis spectroscopy, and photoluminescence (PL), were used to characterize the structural, morphological, and optical properties of the samples. Increase of amorphous phase for the PEO doped with CND particles was shown from the results of XRD analyses. Upon the addition of suspended Ag NPs to the PEO:CNDs composites, significant change of XRD peak position was seen. A field-emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) was used to investigate the surface morphology of the samples. In the SEM, a significant change in the crystalline structure was seen. The size of PEO spherulites in the PEO nanocomposite samples became smaller and the percentage of amorphous portion became larger, owing to the distribution of CNDs and Ag NPs. The UV–Vis absorption spectra of the PEO-based polymer were found to improve and shift to higher wavelengths upon incorporation of CNDs and Ag NPs into the PEO matrix. The SPR peak broadening in the UV–Vis spectra was observed in the PEO:CNDs composites due to the Ag NPs. The absorption edge value of PEO was found to shift toward lower photon energy as the CNDs and Ag NPs are introduced. The photoluminescence (PL) spectra were also observed for the PEO:CNDs and PEO:CNDs:Ag samples and found to be more intense in the PEO:CNDs system than in the PEO:CNDs:Ag system. Lastly, the optical band gap of the samples was further studied in detail using of Tauc’s model and optical dielectric loss parameter. The types of electron transition were specified.
Nutrient Intakes from Meals and Snacks Differ with Age in Middle-Aged and Older Americans
Authors: Krok-Schoen Jessica L. , Jonnalagadda Satya S. , Luo Menghua , Kelly Owen J. , Taylor Christopher A.
Published: June 2019

The present study investigated the meal patterns across demographic characteristics in middle-aged and older US adults. Study participants were noninstitutionalized participants from the 2005–2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, an observational cross-sectional study. Data from 17,361 adults were categorized into 45–59 years (n = 7366), 60–70 years (n = 5348), and 71+ years (n = 4647) to compare demographics, nutrient intakes, and meal patterns. Dietary recalls were collected using the multiple-pass method. Data analyses were weighted to create a nationally representative sample. Two-thirds of adults reported consuming three meals on the day of intake. Lunch was the most often skipped meal across all age groups. A greater proportion of adults over 70 years reported consuming breakfast, while a smaller proportion reported consuming snacks. Significant differences were observed in total energy and nutrient intakes and proportion of the day’s intakes by meal. Grain, milk, and dairy food group intakes were highest at breakfast, while the protein food group intakes were highest at lunch and dinner. Age-related differences in meal consumption and composition provide valuable formative data to support targeted nutritional education and intervention opportunities to promote and encourage healthy food choices.
Effects of Hydrophilic Carriers on Structural Transitions and In Vitro Properties of Solid Self-Microemulsifying Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Yi Tao , Zhang Jifen
Published: June 2019

Self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems (SMEDDS) offer potential for improving the oral bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs. However, their susceptibilities during long term storage and in vivo precipitation issues limit their successful commercial application. To overcome these limitations, SMEDDS can be solidified with solid carriers, thus producing solid self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems (S-SMEDDS). In this study, effects of various hydrophilic carriers on structural transitions and in vitro properties of S-SMEDDS were investigated in order to set up in vitro methods for screening out appropriate carriers for S-SMEDDS. Liquid SMEDDS was prepared and characterized using nimodipine as a model drug. The effects of various hydrophilic carriers on internal microstructure and solubilization of SMEDDS were investigated by conductivity measurement and in vitro dispersion test. The results showed that hydrophilic carriers including dextran 40, maltodextrin and PVP K30 seemed to delay the percolation transition of SMEDDS, allowing it to maintain a microstructure that was more conducive to drug dissolution, thus significantly increasing the solubilization of nimodipine in the self-microemulsifying system and decreasing drug precipitation when dispersed in simulated gastric fluid. S-SMEDDS of nimodipine were prepared by using spray drying with hydrophilic carriers. The effects of various hydrophilic carriers on in vitro properties of S-SMEDDS were investigated by using SEM, DSC, PXRD and in vitro dissolution. The results showed that properties of hydrophilic carriers, especially relative molecular mass of carriers, had obvious influences on surface morphologies of S-SMEDDS, reconstitution of microemulsion and physical state of nimodipine in S-SMEDDS. Considering that in vitro properties of S-SMEDDS are closely related to their pharmacokinetic properties in vivo, the simple and economical in vitro evaluation methods established in this paper can be used to screen solid carriers of S-SMEDDS well.
In Vitro Evaluation of Eudragit Matrices for Oral Delivery of BCG Vaccine to Animals
Authors: Saleem Imran , Coombes Allan G. A. , Chambers Mark A.
Published: June 2019

Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) vaccine is the only licensed vaccine against tuberculosis (TB) in humans and animals. It is most commonly administered parenterally, but oral delivery is highly advantageous for the immunisation of cattle and wildlife hosts of TB in particular. Since BCG is susceptible to inactivation in the gut, vaccine formulations were prepared from suspensions of Eudragit L100 copolymer powder and BCG in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), containing Tween® 80, with and without the addition of mannitol or trehalose. Samples were frozen at −20 °C, freeze-dried and the lyophilised powders were compressed to produce BCG–Eudragit matrices. Production of the dried powders resulted in a reduction in BCG viability. Substantial losses in viability occurred at the initial formulation stage and at the stage of powder compaction. Data indicated that the Eudragit matrix protected BCG against simulated gastric fluid (SGF). The matrices remained intact in SGF and dissolved completely in simulated intestinal fluid (SIF) within three hours. The inclusion of mannitol or trehalose in the matrix provided additional protection to BCG during freeze-drying. Control needs to be exercised over BCG aggregation, freeze-drying and powder compaction conditions to minimise physical damage of the bacterial cell wall and maximise the viability of oral BCG vaccines prepared by dry powder compaction.
Comparison of Promeristem Structure and Ontogeny of Procambium in Primary Roots of Zea mays ssp. Mexicana and Z. mays ‘Honey Bantam’ with Emphasis on Metaxylem Vessel Histogenesis
Authors: Saito Susumu , Niki Teruo , Gladish Daniel
Published: June 2019

Classical histology describes the histological organization in Zea mays as having a “closed organization” that differs from Arabidopsis with the development of xylem conforming to predictable rules. We speculated that root apical meristem organization in a wild subspecies of Z. mays (a teosinte) would differ from a domestic sweetcorn cultivar (‘Honey Bantam’). Careful comparison could contribute to understanding how evolutionary processes and the domestication of maize have affected root development. Root tips of seedlings were prepared and sectioned for light microscopy. Most sections were treated with RNase before staining to increase contrast between the walls and cytoplasm. Longitudinal and serial transverse sections were analyzed using computer imaging to determine the position and timing of key xylem developmental events. Metaxylem development in mexicana teosinte differed from sweetcorn only in that the numbers of late-maturing metaxylem vessels in the latter are typically two-fold greater and the number of cells in the transverse section of procambium were greater in the latter, but parenchymatous cell sizes were not statistically different. Promeristems of both were nearly identical in size and organization, but did not operate quite as previously described. Mitotic activity was rare in the quiescent centers, but occasionally a synchronized pulse of mitoses was observed there. Our reinterpretation of histogen theory and procambium development should be useful for future detailed studies of regulation of development, and perhaps its evolution, in this species.
Polysaccharides from New Zealand Native Plants: A Review of Their Structure, Properties, and Potential Applications
Authors: Carnachan Susan M. , Bell Tracey J. , Hinkley Simon F. R. , Sims Ian M.
Published: June 2019

Water-soluble, non-starch polysaccharides from plants are used commercially in a wide range of food and non-food applications. The increasing range of applications for natural polysaccharides means that there is growing demand for plant-derived polysaccharides with different functionalities. The geographical isolation of New Zealand and its unique flora presents opportunities to discover new polysaccharides with novel properties for a range of applications. This review brings together data published since the year 2000 on the composition and structure of exudate gums, mucilages, and storage polysaccharides extracted from New Zealand endemic land plants. The structures and properties of these polysaccharides are compared with the structures of similar polysaccharides from other plants. The current commercial use of these polysaccharides is reviewed and their potential for further exploitation discussed.
Surface Modification by Polyzwitterions of the Sulfabetaine-Type, and Their Resistance to Biofouling
Authors: Schönemann Eric , Laschewsky André , Wischerhoff Erik , Koc Julian , Rosenhahn Axel
Published: June 2019

Films of zwitterionic polymers are increasingly explored for conferring fouling resistance to materials. Yet, the structural diversity of polyzwitterions is rather limited so far, and clear structure-property relationships are missing. Therefore, we synthesized a series of new polyzwitterions combining ammonium and sulfate groups in their betaine moieties, so-called poly(sulfabetaine)s. Their chemical structures were varied systematically, the monomers carrying methacrylate, methacrylamide, or styrene moieties as polymerizable groups. High molar mass homopolymers were obtained by free radical polymerization. Although their solubilities in most solvents were very low, brine and lower fluorinated alcohols were effective solvents in most cases. A set of sulfabetaine copolymers containing about 1 mol % (based on the repeat units) of reactive benzophenone methacrylate was prepared, spin-coated onto solid substrates, and photo-cured. The resistance of these films against the nonspecific adsorption by two model proteins (bovine serum albumin—BSA, fibrinogen) was explored, and directly compared with a set of references. The various polyzwitterions reduced protein adsorption strongly compared to films of poly(n‑butyl methacrylate) that were used as a negative control. The poly(sulfabetaine)s showed generally even somewhat higher anti-fouling activity than their poly(sulfobetaine) analogues, though detailed efficacies depended on the individual polymer–protein pairs. Best samples approach the excellent performance of a poly(oligo(ethylene oxide) methacrylate) reference.
The Use of Platelet-Rich Plasma to Promote Cell Recruitment into Low-Molecular-Weight Fucoidan-Functionalized Poly(Ester-Urea-Urethane) Scaffolds for Soft-Tissue Engineering
Authors: Rohman Géraldine , Langueh Credson , Ramtani Salah , Lataillade Jean-Jacques , Lutomski Didier , Senni Karim , Changotade Sylvie
Published: June 2019

Due to their elastomeric behavior, polyurethane-based scaffolds can find various applications in soft-tissue engineering. However, their relatively inert surface has to be modified in order to improve cell colonization and control cell fate. The present study focuses on porous biodegradable scaffolds based on poly(ester-urea-urethane), functionalized concomitantly to the scaffold elaboration with low-molecular-weight (LMW) fucoidan; and their bio-activation with platelet rich plasma (PRP) formulations with the aim to promote cell response. The LMW fucoidan-functionalization was obtained in a very homogeneous way, and was stable after the scaffold sterilization and incubation in phosphate-buffered saline. Biomolecules from PRP readily penetrated into the functionalized scaffold, leading to a biological frame on the pore walls. Preliminary in vitro assays were assessed to demonstrate the improvement of scaffold behavior towards cell response. The scaffold bio-activation drastically improved cell migration. Moreover, cells interacted with all pore sides into the bio-activated scaffold forming cell bridges across pores. Our work brought out an easy and versatile way of developing functionalized and bio-activated elastomeric poly(ester-urea-urethane) scaffolds with a better cell response.
Influence of Hydrophobicity of Backbone Polymer in Thermo-Responsive Hydrogel with Immobilized Amine on Cycle Capacity for Absorption and Recovery of CO2
Authors: Nagasawa Yuma , Seida Yoshimi , Gotoh Takehiko , Furuya Eiji
Published: June 2019

The chemisorption process with amines is the major separation and recovery method of CO2 because of its high processing capacity and simplicity. However, large energy consumption for the desorption of CO2 is also associated with the process. To develop a separation and recovery process that is capable of desorbing CO2 at low temperatures and with minimal energy consumption, polymer hydrogels with a lower critical solution temperature (LCST) polymer network and amine groups immobilized in the polymer network of the hydrogels were exploited. Thermo-responsive amine gels with a series of hydrophobicity of polymer networks were systematically synthesized, and the influence of the hydrophobicity of the gels on the CO2 desorption temperature and cycle capacity (CO2 amount that can be separated and recovered by 1 cycle of temperature swing operation) was investigated using slurries with the series of gels. A significant decrease in the CO2 desorption temperature and increase in the cycle capacity occurred simultaneously by lowering the LCST of the gels via hydrophobisation of the polymer network. Based on an equilibrium adsorption model representing the CO2 separation and a recovery system with the gel slurries, an analysis of the system dynamics was performed in order to understand the recovery mechanism in the process.
Refined Model-Based and Feature-Driven Extraction of Buildings from PolSAR Images
Authors: Fan Hui , Quan Sinong , Dai Dahai , Wang Xuesong , Xiao Shunping
Published: June 2019

Polarimetric synthetic aperture radar (PolSAR) building extraction plays an important role in urban planning, disaster management, etc. In this paper, a building extraction method using refined model-based decomposition and robust scattering feature is proposed. On the one hand, the newly proposed refined five-component decomposition and its derived scattering powers are applied to detect the buildings. On the other hand, by combining the matrix elements and co-polarization correlation coefficient, a robust feature is proposed to discriminate buildings and non-buildings. Both these two preliminary extraction results are obtained through thresholding segmentation. Finally, they are fused via the HX Markov random fields so as to further improve the extraction accuracy. The performance of the proposed method is demonstrated and evaluated with Gaofen-3 and uninhabited aerial vehicle SAR full PolSAR data over different test sites. Outputs show that the proposed method outperforms other state-of-the-art methods and provides an overall accuracy of over 90%.
Mapping Invasive Phragmites australis in the Old Woman Creek Estuary Using UAV Remote Sensing and Machine Learning Classifiers
Authors: Abeysinghe Tharindu , Simic Milas Anita , Arend Kristin , Hohman Breann , Reil Patrick , Gregory Andrew , Vázquez-Ortega Angélica
Published: June 2019

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) are increasingly used for spatiotemporal monitoring of invasive plants in coastal wetlands. Early identification of invasive species is necessary in planning, restoring, and managing wetlands. This study assessed the effectiveness of UAV technology to identify invasive Phragmites australis in the Old Woman Creek (OWC) estuary using machine learning (ML) algorithms: Neural network (NN), support vector machine (SVM), and k-nearest neighbor (kNN). The ML algorithms were compared with the parametric maximum likelihood classifier (MLC) using pixel- and object-based methods. Pixel-based NN was identified as the best classifier with an overall accuracy of 94.80% and the lowest error of omission of 1.59%, the outcome desirable for effective eradication of Phragmites. The results were reached combining Sequoia multispectral imagery (green, red, red edge, and near-infrared bands) combined with the canopy height model (CHM) acquired in the mid-growing season and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) acquired later in the season. The sensitivity analysis, using various vegetation indices, image texture, CHM, and principal components (PC), demonstrated the impact of various feature layers on the classifiers. The study emphasizes the necessity of a suitable sampling and cross-validation methods, as well as the importance of optimum classification parameters.
Improving the Accuracy of Two-Color Multiview (2CMV) Advanced Geospatial Information (AGI) Products Using Unsupervised Feature Learning and Optical Flow
Authors: Kanberoglu Berkay , Frakes David
Published: June 2019

In two-color multiview (2CMV) advanced geospatial information (AGI) products, temporal changes in synthetic aperture radar (SAR) images acquired at different times are detected, colorized, and overlaid on an initial image such that new features are represented in cyan, and features that have disappeared are represented in red. Accurate detection of temporal changes in 2CMV AGI products can be challenging because of ’speckle noise’ susceptibility and false positives that result from small orientation differences between objects imaged at different times. Accordingly, 2CMV products are often dominated by colored pixels when changes are detected via simple pixel-wise cross-correlation. The state-of-the-art in SAR image processing demonstrates that generating efficient 2CMV products, while accounting for the aforementioned problem cases, has not been well addressed. We propose a methodology to address the aforementioned two problem cases. Before detecting temporal changes, speckle and smoothing filters mitigate the effects of speckle noise. To detect temporal changes, we propose using unsupervised feature learning algorithms in conjunction with optical flow algorithms that track the motion of objects across time in small regions of interest. The proposed framework for distinguishing between actual motion and misregistration can lead to more accurate and meaningful change detection and improve object extraction from an SAR AGI product.
Physical Meanings of Fractal Behaviors of Water in Aqueous and Biological Systems with Open-Ended Coaxial Electrodes
Authors: Yagihara Shin , Kita Rio , Shinyashiki Naoki , Saito Hironobu , Maruyama Yuko , Kawaguchi Tsubasa , Shoji Kohei , Saito Tetsuya , Aoyama Tsuyoshi , Shimazaki Ko , Matsumoto Keisuke , Fukuzaki Minoru , Masuda Haruchika , Hiraiwa Shinichiro , Asami Koji , Tokita Masayuki
Published: June 2019

The dynamics of a hydrogen bonding network (HBN) relating to macroscopic properties of hydrogen bonding liquids were observed as a significant relaxation process by dielectric spectroscopy measurements. In the cases of water and water rich mixtures including biological systems, a GHz frequency relaxation process appearing at around 20 GHz with the relaxation time of 8.2 ps is generally observed at 25 °C. The GHz frequency process can be explained as a rate process of exchanges in hydrogen bond (HB) and the rate becomes higher with increasing HB density. In the present work, this study analyzed the GHz frequency process observed by suitable open-ended coaxial electrodes, and physical meanings of the fractal nature of water structures were clarified in various aqueous systems. Dynamic behaviors of HBN were characterized by a combination of the average relaxation time and the distribution of the relaxation time. This fractal analysis offered an available approach to both solution and dispersion systems with characterization of the aggregation or dispersion state of water molecules. In the case of polymer-water mixtures, the HBN and polymer networks penetrate each other, however, the HBN were segmented and isolated more by dispersed and aggregated particles in the case of dispersion systems. These HBN fragments were characterized by smaller values of the fractal dimension obtained from the fractal analysis. Some examples of actual usages suggest that the fractal analysis is now one of the most effective tools to understand the molecular mechanism of HBN in aqueous complex materials including biological systems.
The Effects of Filter’s Class, Cutoff Frequencies, and Independent Component Analysis on the Amplitude of Somatosensory Evoked Potentials Recorded from Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Navid Muhammad Samran , Niazi Imran Khan , Lelic Dina , Drewes Asbjørn Mohr , Haavik Heidi
Published: June 2019

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different preprocessing parameters on the amplitude of median nerve somatosensory evoked potentials (SEPs). Methods: Different combinations of two classes of filters (Finite Impulse Response (FIR) and Infinite Impulse Response (IIR)), three cutoff frequency bands (0.5–1000 Hz, 3–1000 Hz, and 30–1000 Hz), and independent component analysis (ICA) were used to preprocess SEPs recorded from 17 healthy volunteers who participated in two sessions of 1000 stimulations of the right median nerve. N30 amplitude was calculated from frontally placed electrode (F3). Results: The epochs classified as artifacts from SEPs filtered with FIR compared to those filtered with IIR were 1% more using automatic and 140% more using semi-automatic methods (both p < 0.001). There were no differences in N30 amplitudes between FIR and IIR filtered SEPs. The N30 amplitude was significantly lower for SEPs filtered with 30–1000 Hz compared to the bandpass frequencies 0.5–1000 Hz and 3–1000 Hz. The N30 amplitude was significantly reduced when SEPs were cleaned with ICA compared to the SEPs from which non-brain components were not removed using ICA. Conclusion: This study suggests that the preprocessing of SEPs should be done carefully and the neuroscience community should come to a consensus regarding SEP preprocessing guidelines, as the preprocessing parameters can affect the outcomes that may influence the interpretations of results, replicability, and comparison of different studies.
Narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT): From Physical (PHY) and Media Access Control (MAC) Layers Perspectives
Authors: Mwakwata Collins Burton , Malik Hassan , Mahtab Alam Muhammad , Le Moullec Yannick , Parand Sven , Mumtaz Shahid
Published: June 2019

Narrowband internet of things (NB-IoT) is a recent cellular radio access technology based on Long-Term Evolution (LTE) introduced by Third-Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) for Low-Power Wide-Area Networks (LPWAN). The main aim of NB-IoT is to support massive machine-type communication (mMTC) and enable low-power, low-cost, and low-data-rate communication. NB-IoT is based on LTE design with some changes to meet the mMTC requirements. For example, in the physical (PHY) layer only single-antenna and low-order modulations are supported, and in the Medium Access Control (MAC) layers only one physical resource block is allocated for resource scheduling. The aim of this survey is to provide a comprehensive overview of the design changes brought in the NB-IoT standardization along with the detailed research developments from the perspectives of Physical and MAC layers. The survey also includes an overview of Evolved Packet Core (EPC) changes to support the Service Capability Exposure Function (SCEF) to manage both IP and non-IP data packets through Control Plane (CP) and User Plane (UP), the possible deployment scenarios of NB-IoT in future Heterogeneous Wireless Networks (HetNet). Finally, existing and emerging research challenges in this direction are presented to motivate future research activities.
Real-Time Automatic Calculation of Euro Coins and Banknotes in a Cash Drawer
Authors: Cereijido Manuel , Nuño Fernando , Pernía Alberto M. , Prieto Miguel J. , Villegas Pedro J.
Published: June 2019

A very interesting and useful complement to classical cash-registers is presented in this paper, coming up with a real-time auto-counting solution for the money inside a cash drawer. The system allows knowing not only the total amount of money but also how many coins and banknotes there are of each value. The embedded solution developed has been intended to become a low-cost solution, allowing better control over the money and helping both owners and workers in the establishments. By using this system, new utilities including automatic final balancing, instant error handling when making operations, and the lack of certain types of banknotes or coins inside the drawer or the excess of some in a certain compartment, could be implemented. Coins-counting solution is based on their weight, and small individual scales made by load cells have been integrated in each coin compartment. With respect to the banknotes, an innovative alternative based on the electrical properties of capacitors is presented. Additionally, considering the relevance of interoperability in today’s systems, a Bluetooth module has been integrated into the system, allowing for data to be accessed remotely from any smartphone, tablet or computer within the range of the module. In this work, an Android application to both control and interact with the system has also been designed.
Monitoring Methods of Human Body Joints: State-of-the-Art and Research Challenges
Authors: Faisal Abu Ilius , Majumder Sumit , Mondal Tapas , Cowan David , Naseh Sasan , Deen M. Jamal
Published: June 2019

The world’s population is aging: the expansion of the older adult population with multiple physical and health issues is now a huge socio-economic concern worldwide. Among these issues, the loss of mobility among older adults due to musculoskeletal disorders is especially serious as it has severe social, mental and physical consequences. Human body joint monitoring and early diagnosis of these disorders will be a strong and effective solution to this problem. A smart joint monitoring system can identify and record important musculoskeletal-related parameters. Such devices can be utilized for continuous monitoring of joint movements during the normal daily activities of older adults and the healing process of joints (hips, knees or ankles) during the post-surgery period. A viable monitoring system can be developed by combining miniaturized, durable, low-cost and compact sensors with the advanced communication technologies and data processing techniques. In this study, we have presented and compared different joint monitoring methods and sensing technologies recently reported. A discussion on sensors’ data processing, interpretation, and analysis techniques is also presented. Finally, current research focus, as well as future prospects and development challenges in joint monitoring systems are discussed.
Aprepitant Drug in Ternary Pharmaceutical Solid Dispersions with Soluplus® and Poloxamer 188 Prepared by Melt Mixing
Authors: Nanaki Stavroula , Eleftheriou Rodanthi Maria , Barmpalexis Panagiotis , Kostoglou Margaritis , Karavas Evangelos , Bikiaris Dimitrios
Published: June 2019

In the present study Aprepitant (APT) ternary solid dispersions (SDs) were developed and evaluated for the first time. Specifically, ternary SDs of APT with Poloxamer 188 and Soluplus® (SOL) were prepared via melt mixing and compared to binary APT/Poloxamer 188 and APT/SOL SDs. Initially, combined thermo-gravimetric and hot-stage polarized light microscopy studies indicated that all tested compounds were thermally stable up to 280 °C, while Poloxamer 188 acted as a plasticizer to SOL by significantly reducing the temperature required to fully solubilize the API during SD preparation. Differential scanning calorimetry combined with wide angle X-ray diffraction studies showed that crystalline API was dispersed in both binary and ternary SDs, while Fourier transformation-infrared spectroscopy studies revealed no molecular interactions among the components. Scanning electron microscopy combined with EDAX element analysis showed that the API was dispersed in nano-scale within the polymer matrices, while increasing APT content led to increasing API nano-crystals within the SDs. Finally, dissolution studies showed that the prepared formulations enhanced dissolution of Aprepitant and its mechanism analysis was further studied. A mathematical model was also investigated to evaluate the drug release mechanism