bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the Environmental Performance and Operational Efficiency of Container Ports: An Application to the Maritime Silk Road
Authors: Dong Gang , Zhu Jing , Li Jin , Wang Handong , Gajpal Yuvraj
Published: June 2019

A major goal for port authorities, operators, and investors is to achieve efficient operations and effective environmental protection. This is because the environmental performance of a container port is important for its competitiveness and sustainable development. However, the container ports along the Maritime Silk Road (MSR) have caused numerous problems with the rapid development, among which the most significant problem is environmental pollution. In this paper, we aim to measure and compare the environmental performance and operational efficiency of ten major container ports along the MSR, including the ports of Shanghai, Hong Kong, Singapore, Kelang, Laem Chabang, Colombo, Dubai, Barcelona, Antwerp, and Hamburg. We develop an improved, inseparable data envelopment analysis (DEA) model with slack-based measures (SBMs) to evaluate and compare the environmental performance and operational efficiency, and we incorporate the desirable output of container throughput as well as the undesirable output of CO2 emission. Our results show that. Overall. these container ports perform better in terms of operational efficiency than environmental performance. We also provide insights for management and policy makers for container ports with different levels of operational efficiency and environmental performance.
Effects of the Pentapeptide P33 on Memory and Synaptic Plasticity in APP/PS1 Transgenic Mice: A Novel Mechanism Presenting the Protein Fe65 as a Target
Authors: Szögi Titanilla , Schuster Ildikó , Borbély Emőke , Gyebrovszki Andrea , Bozsó Zsolt , Gera János , Rajkó Róbert , Sántha Miklós , Penke Botond , Fülöp Lívia
Published: June 2019

Regulated intramembrane proteolysis (RIP) of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) leads to the formation of fragments, among which the intracellular domain of APP (AICD) was also identified to be a causative of early pathological events. AICD-counteracting proteins, such as Fe65, may serve as alternative therapeutic targets of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The detection of elevated levels of Fe65 in the brains of both human patients and APP transgenic mice may further strengthen the hypothesis that influencing the interaction between Fe65 and APP may have a beneficial effect on the course of AD. Based on a PXP motif, proven to bind to the WW domain of Fe65, a new pentapeptide was designed and tested. The impedimental effect of P33 on the production of beta amyloid (Aβ) (soluble fraction and aggregated plaques) and on the typical features of the AD pathology (decreased dendritic spine density, synaptic markers, elevated inflammatory reactions) was also demonstrated. Significant enhancements of both learning ability and memory function were observed in a Morris water maze paradigm. The results led us to formulate the theory that P33 acts by altering the conformation of Fe65 via binding to its WW domain, consequently hindering any interactions between Fe65 and key members involved in APP processing.
Epigenetic Regulation of Plant Gametophyte Development
Authors: Ashapkin Vasily V. , Kutueva Lyudmila I. , Aleksandrushkina Nadezhda I. , Vanyushin Boris F.
Published: June 2019

Unlike in animals, the reproductive lineage cells in plants differentiate from within somatic tissues late in development to produce a specific haploid generation of the life cycle—male and female gametophytes. In flowering plants, the male gametophyte develops within the anthers and the female gametophyte—within the ovule. Both gametophytes consist of only a few cells. There are two major stages of gametophyte development—meiotic and post-meiotic. In the first stage, sporocyte mother cells differentiate within the anther (pollen mother cell) and the ovule (megaspore mother cell). These sporocyte mother cells undergo two meiotic divisions to produce four haploid daughter cells—male spores (microspores) and female spores (megaspores). In the second stage, the haploid spore cells undergo few asymmetric haploid mitotic divisions to produce the 3-cell male or 7-cell female gametophyte. Both stages of gametophyte development involve extensive epigenetic reprogramming, including siRNA dependent changes in DNA methylation and chromatin restructuring. This intricate mosaic of epigenetic changes determines, to a great extent, embryo and endosperm development in the future sporophyte generation.
Comparison of the Substrate Preferences of ω3 Fatty Acid Desaturases for Long Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids
Authors: Shrestha Pushkar , Zhou Xue-Rong , Vibhakaran Pillai Sapna , Petrie James , de Feyter Robert , Singh Surinder
Published: June 2019

Omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω3 LC-PUFAs) such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA; 20:5ω3) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; 22:6ω3) are important fatty acids for human health. These ω3 LC-PUFAs are produced from their ω3 precursors by a set of desaturases and elongases involved in the biosynthesis pathway and are also converted from ω6 LC-PUFA by omega-3 desaturases (ω3Ds). Here, we have investigated eight ω3-desaturases obtained from a cyanobacterium, plants, fungi and a lower animal species for their activities and compared their specificities for various C18, C20 and C22 ω6 PUFA substrates by transiently expressing them in Nicotiana benthamiana leaves. Our results showed hitherto unreported activity of many of the ω3Ds on ω6 LC-PUFA substrates leading to their conversion to ω3 LC-PUFAs. This discovery could be important in the engineering of EPA and DHA in heterologous hosts.
Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Marine Algae in Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Barbalace Maria Cristina , Malaguti Marco , Giusti Laura , Lucacchini Antonio , Hrelia Silvana , Angeloni Cristina
Published: June 2019

Neuroinflammation is one of the main contributors to the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. Microglial and astrocyte activation is a brain defense mechanism to counteract harmful pathogens and damaged tissues, while their prolonged activation induces neuroinflammation that can trigger or exacerbate neurodegeneration. Unfortunately, to date there are no pharmacological therapies able to slow down or stop the progression of neurodegeneration. For this reason, research is turning to the identification of natural compounds with protective action against these diseases. Considering the important role of neuroinflammation in the onset and development of neurodegenerative pathologies, natural compounds with anti-inflammatory activity could be good candidates for developing effective therapeutic strategies. Marine organisms represent a huge source of natural compounds, and among them, algae are appreciated sources of important bioactive components such as antioxidants, proteins, vitamins, minerals, soluble dietary fibers, polyunsaturated fatty acids, polysaccharides, sterols, carotenoids, tocopherols, terpenes, phycobilins, phycocolloids, and phycocyanins. Recently, numerous anti-inflammatory compounds have been isolated from marine algae with potential protective efficacy against neuroinflammation. This review highlights the key inflammatory processes involved in neurodegeneration and the potential of specific compounds from marine algae to counteract neuroinflammation in the CNS.
Decreased Autophagy Impairs Decidualization of Human Endometrial Stromal Cells: A Role for ATG Proteins in Endometrial Physiology
Authors: Mestre Citrinovitz Ana Cecilia , Strowitzki Thomas , Germeyer Ariane
Published: June 2019

During the menstrual cycle, the endometrium undergoes cyclic changes of cellular proliferation, differentiation, and death, an essential preparation of the endometrium for its interaction with the implanting embryo. In particular, the differentiation of endometrial stromal cells, named decidualization, ensures the formation of a proper feto-maternal interface for a regulated trophoblast invasion and correct placental orientation and growth. Interestingly, autophagy, an intracellular degradation process of great importance for the maintenance of cellular homeostasis, plays an important role in cell proliferation, differentiation, and growth. In the endometrium, increased detection of autophagy markers correlates with the progression of the menstrual cycle. However, until now, it was unknown whether autophagy contributes to the proper function of the endometrium. In this study, we show that autophagy is increased during in vitro decidualization of human endometrial stromal cells. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the knockdowns of two important autophagy-related (ATG) proteins, ATG7 and ATG5, impaired decidualization, confirming a positive role of these proteins and of autophagy for the correct decidualization of human endometrial stromal cells. In conclusion, in this work, we describe a previously unknown functional connection between autophagy and endometrial physiology.
Role of Hedgehog Signaling in Vasculature Development, Differentiation, and Maintenance
Authors: Chapouly Candice , Guimbal Sarah , Hollier Pierre-Louis , Renault Marie-Ange
Published: June 2019

The role of Hedgehog (Hh) signaling in vascular biology has first been highlighted in embryos by Pepicelli et al. in 1998 and Rowitch et al. in 1999. Since then, the proangiogenic role of the Hh ligands has been confirmed in adults, especially under pathologic conditions. More recently, the Hh signaling has been proposed to improve vascular integrity especially at the blood–brain barrier (BBB). However, molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the role of the Hh signaling in vascular biology remain poorly understood and conflicting results have been reported. As a matter of fact, in several settings, it is currently not clear whether Hh ligands promote vessel integrity and quiescence or destabilize vessels to promote angiogenesis. The present review relates the current knowledge regarding the role of the Hh signaling in vasculature development, maturation and maintenance, discusses the underlying proposed mechanisms and highlights controversial data which may serve as a guideline for future research. Most importantly, fully understanding such mechanisms is critical for the development of safe and efficient therapies to target the Hh signaling in both cancer and cardiovascular/cerebrovascular diseases.
Post-Translational Modification-Dependent Activity of Matrix Metalloproteinases
Authors: Madzharova Elizabeta , Kastl Philipp , Sabino Fabio , auf dem Keller Ulrich
Published: June 2019

Due to their capacity to process different proteins of the extracellular matrix (ECM), matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) were initially described as a family of secreted proteases, functioning as main ECM regulators. However, through proteolytic processing of various biomolecules, MMPs also modulate intra- and extracellular pathways and networks. Thereby, they are functionally implicated in the regulation of multiple physiological and pathological processes. Consequently, MMP activity is tightly regulated through a combination of epigenetic, transcriptional, and post-transcriptional control of gene expression, proteolytic activation, post-translational modifications (PTMs), and extracellular inhibition. In addition, MMPs, their substrates and ECM binding partners are frequently modified by PTMs, which suggests an important role of PTMs in modulating the pleiotropic activities of these proteases. This review summarizes the recent progress towards understanding the role of PTMs (glycosylation, phosphorylation, glycosaminoglycans) on the activity of several members of the MMP family.
Long Noncoding Competing Endogenous RNA Networks in Age-Associated Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Greco Simona , Gaetano Carlo , Martelli Fabio
Published: June 2019

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the most serious health problem in the world, displaying high rates of morbidity and mortality. One of the main risk factors for CVDs is age. Indeed, several mechanisms are at play during aging, determining the functional decline of the cardiovascular system. Aging cells and tissues are characterized by diminished autophagy, causing the accumulation of damaged proteins and mitochondria, as well as by increased levels of oxidative stress, apoptosis, senescence and inflammation. These processes can induce a rapid deterioration of cellular quality-control systems. However, the molecular mechanisms of age-associated CVDs are only partially known, hampering the development of novel therapeutic strategies. Evidence has emerged indicating that noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), such as long ncRNAs (lncRNAs) and micro RNAs (miRNAs), are implicated in most patho-physiological mechanisms. Specifically, lncRNAs can bind miRNAs and act as competing endogenous-RNAs (ceRNAs), therefore modulating the levels of the mRNAs targeted by the sponged miRNA. These complex lncRNA/miRNA/mRNA networks, by regulating autophagy, apoptosis, necrosis, senescence and inflammation, play a crucial role in the development of age-dependent CVDs. In this review, the emerging knowledge on lncRNA/miRNA/mRNA networks will be summarized and the way in which they influence age-related CVDs development will be discussed.
Improvement of the Firocoxib Dissolution Performance Using Electrospun Fibers Obtained from Different Polymer/Surfactant Associations
Authors: Maggi Lauretta , Friuli Valeria , Chiesa Enrica , Pisani Silvia , Sakaj Mirena , Celestini Paolo , Bruni Giovanna
Published: June 2019

An electrospinning process was optimized to produce fibers of micrometric size with different combinations of polymeric and surfactant materials to promote the dissolution rate of an insoluble drug: firocoxib. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) showed that only some combinations of the proposed carrier systems allowed the production of suitable fibers and further fine optimization of the technique is also needed to load the drug. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD) suggest that the drug is in an amorphous state in the final product. Drug amorphization, the fine dispersion of the active in the carriers, and the large surface area exposed to water interaction obtained through the electrospinning process can explain the remarkable improvement in the dissolution performance of firocoxib from the final product developed.
Correction: Warzecha, Z., et al. Therapeutic Effect of Low Doses of Acenocoumarol in the Course of Ischemia/Reperfusion-Induced Acute Pancreatitis in Rats. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18, 882
Authors: Warzecha Zygmunt , Sendur Paweł , Ceranowicz Piotr , Cieszkowski Jakub , Dembiński Marcin , Sendur Ryszard , Bonior Joanna , Jaworek Jolanta , Ambroży Tadeusz , Olszanecki Rafał , Kuśnierz-Cabala Beata , Tomasz Kaczmarzyk , Tomaszewska Romana , Dembiński Artur
Published: June 2019

We would like to submit this correction to our published paper [...]
Cryphalus eriobotryae sp. nov. (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae), a New Insect Pest of Loquat Eriobotrya japonica in China
Authors: Zheng Sizhu , Johnson Andrew J. , Li You , Chu Chunrong , Hulcr Jiri
Published: June 2019

A previously unknown bark beetle species, Cryphalus eriobotryae sp. nov. Johnson, 2019 has emerged as a lethal pest of loquat (Eriobotrya japonica) in China. The description of new species has been provided. The new species is distinguished from the other Cryphalus by the weakly aciculate frons, by the antennae, with unevenly spaced procurved sutures, by the short pronotal disc, with hair-like setae, and by the widely spaced mesocoxae. The survey of plantation records from around Suzhou suggests that this beetle was introduced from another area not long before 2017. In the surveyed loquat plantation in 2018, 20–90% of trees showed signs of infestation, and 5% were killed in 2018, resulting in the death of over 1000 trees. Outbreaks of the apparently loquat-specific Cryphalus eriobotryae can be diagnosed by hundreds of cankers on the trunk, and wilted foliage. This pest is of concern as a loquat plantation pest and as a pest of fruit production and ornamental trees within Suzhou, and globally.
Effects of Host Plants Reared under Elevated CO2 Concentrations on the Foraging Behavior of Different Stages of Corn Leaf Aphids Rhopalosiphum maidis
Authors: Chen Yu , Martin Clément , Fingu Mabola Junior Corneille , Verheggen François , Wang Zhenying , He KangLai , Francis Frederic
Published: June 2019

Climate change is a major environmental concern and is directly related to the increasing concentrations of greenhouse gases. The increase in concentrations of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2), not only affects plant growth and development, but also affects the emission of plant organic volatile compounds (VOCs). Changes in the plant odor profile may affect the plant-insect interactions, especially the behavior of herbivorous insects. In this study, we compared the foraging behavior of corn leaf aphid (Rhopalosiphum maidis) on barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) seedlings grown under contrasted CO2 concentrations. During the dual choice bioassays, the winged and wingless aphids were more attracted by the VOCs of barley seedlings cultivated under ambient CO2 concentrations (aCO2; 450 ppm) than barley seedlings cultivated under elevated CO2 concentrations (eCO2; 800 ppm), nymphs were not attracted by the VOCs of eCO2 barley seedlings. Then, volatile compositions from 14-d-old aCO2 and eCO2 barley seedlings were investigated by GC-MS. While 16 VOCs were identified from aCO2 barley seedlings, only 9 VOCs were found from eCO2 barley seedlings. At last, we discussed the potential role of these chemicals observed during choice bioassays. Our findings lay foundation for functional response of corn leaf aphid under climate change through host plant modifications.
25-Hydroxy Vitamin D Detection Using Different Analytic Methods in Patients with Migraine
Authors: Gallelli Luca , Michniewicz Andzelika , Cione Erika , Squillace Aida , Colosimo Manuela , Pelaia Corrado , Fazio Alessia , Zampogna Stefania , Peltrone Francesco , Iannacchero Rosario , Sarro Giovambattista De ,   G&SP Working Group, Salerno Monica , Di Mizio Giulio
Published: June 2019

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of different analytic methods, such as liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), high-performance liquid chromatography-ultraviolet (HPLC-UV), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (EIA), and chemiluminescence immunoassays (CLIA), in order to highlight whether or not there is relative superiority amongst the assays. We analyzed two groups of subjects suffering from headache and two groups of healthy subjects. Design and Methods: We performed a prospective, single-blind single-center control-group study on 220 subjects with migraine. Subjects of both sexes >10 years old and with 12 months’ history of migraine were eligible for the study. As a control group, 120 healthy subjects were chosen by their family physician. Results: LC-MS/MS evaluation documented that in all enrolled subjects (migraine and control groups), the serum vitamin D3 levels were lower with respect to the normal range (30–100 ng/mL), with a mean value of 15.4 ng/mL, without difference between sex. The mean values measured using HPLC-UV, EIA, and CLIA tests such as Liaison® and Architect® did not show significant differences compared to the values obtained using LC-MS/MS. Conclusions: In conclusion, the population generally has low values of the vitamin D3 hormone, and the suggested range should probably be revised. HPLC-UV and CLIA were found to have appropriate analytical values compared to the reference method (LC-MS/MS), so it is possible to suggest their routine use to optimize care.
Early Local Inhibition of Club Cell Protein 16 Following Chest Trauma Reduces Late Sepsis-Induced Acute Lung Injury
Authors: Störmann Philipp , Becker Nils , Vollrath Jan Tilmann , Köhler Kernt , Janicova Andrea , Wutzler Sebastian , Hildebrand Frank , Marzi Ingo , Relja Borna
Published: June 2019

Blunt thoracic trauma (TxT) deteriorates clinical post-injury outcomes. Ongoing inflammatory changes promote the development of post-traumatic complications, frequently causing Acute Lung Injury (ALI). Club Cell Protein (CC)16, a pulmonary anti-inflammatory protein, correlates with lung damage following TxT. Whether CC16-neutralization influences the inflammatory course during ALI is elusive. Ninety-six male CL57BL/6N mice underwent a double hit model of TxT and cecal ligation puncture (CLP, 24 h post-TxT). Shams underwent surgical procedures. CC16 was neutralized by the intratracheal application of an anti-CC16-antibody, either after TxT (early) or following CLP (late). Euthanasia was performed at 6 or 24 h post-CLP. Systemic and pulmonary levels of IL-6, IL-1β, and CXCL5 were determined, the neutrophils were quantified in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, and histomorphological lung damage was assessed. ALI induced a significant systemic IL-6 increase among all groups, while the local inflammatory response was most prominent after 24 h in the double-hit groups as compared to the shams. Significantly increased neutrophilic infiltration upon double hit was paralleled with the enhanced lung damage in all groups as compared to the sham, after 6 and 24 h. Neutralization of CC16 did not change the systemic inflammation. However, early CC16-neutralization increased the neutrophilic infiltration and lung injury at 6 h post-CLP, while 24 h later, the lung injury was reduced. Late CC16-neutralization increased neutrophilic infiltration, 24 h post-CLP, and was concurrent with an enhanced lung injury. The data confirmed the anti-inflammatory potential of endogenous CC16 in the murine double-hit model of ALI.
Asymmetric Dimethylarginine (ADMA) and Symmetric Dimethylarginine (SDMA) Concentrations in Patients with Obesity and the Risk of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
Authors: Arlouskaya Yana , Sawicka Ada , Głowala Marek , Giebułtowicz Joanna , Korytowska Natalia , Tałałaj Marek , Nowicka Grażyna , Wrzosek Małgorzata
Published: June 2019

Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) and symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) are endogenous inhibitors of nitric oxide (NO) synthesis, and play a critical role in the process of endothelial dysfunction, and are considered markers of oxidative stress. The aim of the present study was to explore relationships between ADMA and/or SDMA and the occurrence of OSA in obese patients as well as the effect of the endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) gene polymorphism, which may modify the influence of ADMA or SDMA on NO production. A total of 518 unrelated obese subjects were included in this study. Body weight, height and blood pressure were measured and data on self-reported smoking status were collected. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) was assessed by the apnea hypopnea index (AHI). Blood samples were collected to measure serum concentrations of glucose, total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, triglycerides, creatinine, HbA1c (%), folic acid, vitamin B12, C-reactive protein (CRP), aspartate aminotransferase (ASP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and IL-6 by routine methods. The NOS3 gene G894T and 4a/4b polymorphisms were detected by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) analysis. ADMA, SDMA and arginine concentrations were assessed simultaneously using liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method. Adjusted multivariate logistic regression analysis showed a significant association between the occurrence of OSA and high serum ADMA levels, BMI above 40, age > 43 years, hypertension and male sex. Heterozygotes for the G894T eNOS polymorphism have the lowest serum concentrations of ADMA and SDMA, while no effect of the 4a/4b variants was observed. The results indicate that OSA in obese individuals can coexist with high ADMA levels, which appear as a potential OSA predictor.
Shared Decision-Making in Chronic Patients with Polypharmacy: An Interventional Study for Assessing Medication Appropriateness
Authors: Coronado-Vázquez Valle , Gómez-Salgado Juan , Cerezo-Espinosa de los Monteros Javier , Ayuso-Murillo Diego , Ruiz-Frutos Carlos
Published: June 2019

Potentially inappropriate medications are associated with polypharmacy and polypathology. Some interventions such as pharmacotherapy reviews have been designed to reduce the prescribing of inappropriate medications. The objective of this study is to evaluate how effective a decision-making support tool is for determining medication appropriateness in patients with one or more chronic diseases (hypertension, dyslipidaemia, and/or diabetes) and polypharmacy in the primary care setting. For this, a quasi-experimental study (randomised, controlled and multicentre) has been developed. The study compares an intervention group, which assesses medication appropriateness by applying a decision support tool, with a control group that follows the usual clinical practice. The intervention included a decision support tool in paper format, where participants were informed about polypharmacy, inappropriate medications, associated problems and available alternatives, as well as shared decision-making. This is an informative guide aimed at helping patients with decision-making by providing them with information about the secondary risks associated with inappropriate medications in their treatment, according to the Beers and START/STOPP criteria. The outcome measure was the proportion of medication appropriateness. The proportion of patients who confirmed medication appropriateness after six months of follow-up is greater in the intervention group (32.5%) than in the control group (27.9%) p = 0.008. The probability of medication appropriateness, which was calculated by the proportion of drugs withdrawn or replaced according to the STOPP/Beers criteria and those initiated according to the START criteria, was 2.8 times higher in the intervention group than in the control group (OR = 2.8; 95% CI 1.3–6.1) p = 0.008. In patients with good adherence to the treatment, the percentage of appropriateness was 62.1% in the shared decision-making group versus 37.9% in the control group (p = 0.005). The use of a decision-making support tool in patients with potentially inappropriate medications increases the percentage of medication appropriateness when compared to the usual clinical practice.
Vitamin D Receptor Signaling Regulates Craniofacial Cartilage Development in Zebrafish
Authors: Kwon Hye-Joo
Published: June 2019

Vitamin D plays essential roles in supporting the skeletal system. The active form of vitamin D functions through the vitamin D receptor (VDR). A hereditary vitamin-D-resistant rickets with facial dysmorphism has been reported, but the involvement of VDR signaling during early stages of craniofacial development remains to be elucidated. The present study investigated whether VDR signaling is implicated in zebrafish craniofacial cartilage development using a morpholino-based knockdown approach. Two paralogous VDR genes, vdra and vdrb, have been found in zebrafish embryos. Loss-of-vdra has no discernible effect on cartilage elements, whereas loss-of-vdrb causes reduction and malformation of craniofacial cartilages. Disrupting both vdra and vdrb leads to more severe defects or complete loss of cartilage. Notably, knockdown of vdrb results in elevated expression of follistatin a (fsta), a bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) antagonist, in the adjacent pharyngeal endoderm. Taken together, these findings strongly indicate that VDR signaling is required for early craniofacial cartilage development in zebrafish.
Acute Cardiometabolic Responses to Multi-Modal Integrative Neuromuscular Training in Children
Authors: Faigenbaum Avery D. , Kang Jie , Ratamess Nicholas A. , Farrell Anne C. , Belfert Mina , Duffy Sean , Jenson Cara , Bush Jill
Published: June 2019

Integrative neuromuscular training (INT) has emerged as an effective strategy for improving health- and skill-related components of physical fitness, yet few studies have explored the cardiometabolic demands of this type of training in children. The aim of this study was to examine the acute cardiometabolic responses to a multi-modal INT protocol and to compare these responses to a bout of moderate-intensity treadmill (TM) walking in children. Participants (n = 14, age 10.7 ± 1.1 years) were tested for peak oxygen uptake (VO2) and peak heart rate (HR) on a maximal TM test and subsequently participated in two experimental conditions on nonconsecutive days: a 12-min INT protocol of six different exercises performed twice for 30 s with a 30 s rest interval between sets and exercises and a 12-min TM protocol of walking at 50% VO2peak. Throughout the INT protocol mean VO2 and HR increased significantly from 14.9 ± 3.6 mL∙kg−1∙min−1 (28.2% VO2 peak) to 34.0 ± 6.4 mL∙kg−1∙min−1 (64.3% VO2 peak) and from 121.1 ± 9.0 bpm (61.0% HR peak) to 183.5 ± 7.9 bpm (92.4% HR peak), respectively. While mean VO2 for the entire protocol did not differ between INT and TM, mean VO2 and HR during selected INT exercises and mean HR for the entire INT protocol were significantly higher than TM (all Ps ≤ 0.05). These findings suggest that INT can pose a moderate to vigorous cardiometabolic stimulus in children and selected INT exercises can be equal to or more metabolically challenging than TM walking.
Coring of Antarctic Subglacial Sediments
Authors: Gong Da , Fan Xiaopeng , Li Yazhou , Li Bing , Zhang Nan , Gromig Raphael , Smith Emma C. , Dummann Wolf , Berger Sophie , Eisen Olaf , Tell Jan , Biskaborn Boris K. , Koglin Nikola , Wilhelms Frank , Broy Benjamin , Liu Yunchen , Yang Yang , Li Xingchen , Liu An , Talalay Pavel
Published: June 2019

Coring sediments in subglacial aquatic environments offers unique opportunities for research on paleo-environments and paleo-climates because it can provide data from periods even earlier than ice cores, as well as the overlying ice histories, interactions between ice and the water system, life forms in extreme habitats, sedimentology, and stratigraphy. However, retrieving sediment cores from a subglacial environment faces more difficulties than sediment coring in oceans and lakes, resulting in low yields from the most current subglacial sediment coring methods. The coring tools should pass through a hot water-drilled access borehole, then the water column, to reach the sediment layers. The access boreholes are size-limited by the hot water drilling tools and techniques. These holes are drilled through ice up to 3000–4000 m thick, with diameters ranging from 10–60 cm, and with a refreezing closure rate of up to 6 mm/h after being drilled. Several purpose-built streamline corers have been developed to pass through access boreholes and collect the sediment core. The main coring objectives are as follows: (i) To obtain undisturbed water–sediment cores, either singly or as multi-cores and (ii) to obtain long cores with minimal stratigraphic deformation. Subglacial sediment coring methods use similar tools to those used in lake and ocean coring. These methods include the following: Gravity coring, push coring, piston coring, hammer or percussion coring, vibrocoring, and composite methods. Several core length records have been attained by different coring methods, including a 290 cm percussion core from the sub-ice-shelf seafloor, a 400 cm piston core from the sub-ice-stream, and a 170 cm gravity core from a subglacial lake. There are also several undisturbed water–sediment cores that have been obtained by gravity corers or hammer corers. Most current coring tools are deployed by winch and cable facilities on the ice surface. There are three main limitations for obtaining long sediment cores which determines coring tool development, as follows: Hot-water borehole radial size restriction, the sedimentary structure, and the coring techniques. In this paper, we provide a general view on current developments in coring tools, including the working principles, corer characteristics, operational methods, coring site locations, field conditions, coring results, and possible technical improvements. Future prospects in corer design and development are also discussed.
Data-Interpretation Methodologies for Practical Asset-Management
Authors: Pai Sai G. S. , Reuland Yves , Smith Ian F. C.
Published: June 2019

Monitoring and interpreting structural response using structural-identification methodologies improves understanding of civil-infrastructure behavior. New sensing devices and inexpensive computation has made model-based data interpretation feasible in engineering practice. Many data-interpretation methodologies, such as Bayesian model updating and residual minimization, involve strong assumptions regarding uncertainty conditions. While much research has been conducted on the scientific development of these methodologies and some research has evaluated the applicability of underlying assumptions, little research is available on the suitability of these methodologies to satisfy practical engineering challenges. For use in practice, data-interpretation methodologies need to be able, for example, to respond to changes in a transparent manner and provide accurate model updating at minimal additional cost. This facilitates incremental and iterative increases in understanding of structural behavior as more information becomes available. In this paper, three data-interpretation methodologies, Bayesian model updating, residual minimization and error-domain model falsification, are compared based on their ability to provide robust, accurate, engineer-friendly and computationally inexpensive model updating. Comparisons are made using two full-scale case studies for which multiple scenarios are considered, including incremental acquisition of information through measurements. Evaluation of these scenarios suggests that, compared with other data-interpretation methodologies, error-domain model falsification is able to incorporate, iteratively and transparently, incremental information gain to provide accurate model updating at low additional computational cost.
Special Issue: Microbial Biofilms in Healthcare: Formation, Prevention and Treatment
Authors: Vickery Karen
Published: June 2019

Biofilms are a structured community of microorganisms that are attached to a surface. Individual bacteria are embedded in a bacterial-secreted matrix. Biofilms have significantly increased tolerance to removal by cleaning agents and killing by disinfectants and antibiotics. This special issue is devoted to diagnosis and treatment of biofilm-related diseases in man. It highlights the differences between the biofilm and planktonic (single cell) lifestyles and the diseases biofilms cause from periodontitis to breast implant capsular contracture. Biofilm-specific treatment options are detailed in experimental and review manuscripts.
Predicting Performance of Lightweight Concrete with Granulated Expanded Glass and Ash Aggregate by Means of Using Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Kurpinska Marzena , Kułak Leszek
Published: June 2019

Lightweight concrete (LWC) is a group of cement composites of the defined physical, mechanical, and chemical performance. The methods of designing the composition of LWC with the assumed density and compressive strength are used most commonly. The purpose of using LWC is the reduction of the structure’s weight, as well as the reduction of thermal conductivity index. The highest possible strength, durability and low thermal conductivity of construction materials are important factors and reasons for this field’s development, which lies largely in modification of materials’ composition. Higher requirements for construction materials are related to activities aiming at environment protection. The purpose of the restrictions is the reduction of energy consumption and, as a result, the reduction of CO2 emission. To limit the scope of time-consuming and often high-cost laboratory works necessary to calibrate models used in the test methods, it is possible to apply Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) to predict any of the concrete properties. The aim of this study is to demonstrate the applicability of this tool for solving the problems, related to establishing the relation between the choice of type and quantity of lightweight aggregates and the porosity, bulk density and compressive strength of LWC. For the tests porous lightweight Granulated Expanded Glass Aggregate (GEGA) and Granulated Ash Aggregate (GAA) have been used.
Catalyzed Reaction of Cellulose and Lignin with Methyltrimethoxysilane—FT-IR, 13C NMR and 29Si NMR Studies
Authors: Siuda Joanna , Perdoch Waldemar , Mazela Bartłomiej , Zborowska Magdalena
Published: June 2019

It can be found that reaction mechanisms and interactions between wood and organosilicone compounds have not been sufficiently explored. The aim of the study was to determine bonds formed between either cellulose or lignin and methyltrimethoxysilane (MTMOS) during a catalytic silanization reaction. Silanization was performed in the presence of two catalysts of a diverse mechanism of functionalization: aluminum acetylacetonate (Al(acac)3) and acetic acid (AcOH). For this purpose, FT-IR, 13C and 29Si NMR techniques were used. Cellulose silanization efficiency without a catalyst was unlikely. Lignin undergoes a silanization reaction with alkoxysilanes much easier than cellulose. The results showed new bonds between biopolymers and the silanising agent. The new bonds were confirmed by signals at the FT-IR spectra, e.g., 770 cm−1 and 1270 cm−1 (Si–CH3), and at the NMR signal coming from the T1, T2 and T3 structures. Efficiency of reaction was confirmed by atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) analysis.
The Effect of New Thiophene-Derived Diphenyl Aminophosphonates on Growth of Terrestrial Plants
Authors: Rogacz Diana , Lewkowski Jarosław , Siedlarek Marta , Karpowicz Rafał , Kowalczyk Anna , Rychter Piotr
Published: June 2019

The aim of this work was to evaluate the impact of the thiophene-derived aminophosphonates 1–6 on seedling emergence and growth of monocotyledonous oat (Avena sativa) and dicotyledonous radish (Raphanus sativus L.), and phytotoxicity against three persistent and resistant weeds (Galinsoga parviflora Cav., Rumex acetosa L., and Chenopodium album). Aminophosphonates 1–6 have never been described in the literature. The phytotoxicity of tested aminophosphonates toward their potential application as soil-applied herbicides was evaluated according to the OECD (Organization for Economic and Cooperation Development Publishing) 208 Guideline. In addition, their ecotoxicological impact on crustaceans Heterocypris incongruens and bacteria Aliivibrio fischeri was measured using the OSTRACODTOXKITTM and Microtox® tests. Obtained results showed that none of the tested compounds were found sufficiently phytotoxic and none of them have any herbicidal potential. None of the tested compounds showed important toxicity against Aliivibrio fischeri but they should be considered as slightly harmful. Harmful impacts of compounds 1–6 on Heterocypris incongruens were found to be significant.
Analysis of MnS Inclusions Formation in Resulphurised Steel via Modeling and Experiments
Authors: Liu Hui , Hu Delin , Fu Jianxun
Published: June 2019

Controlling the formation of MnS inclusions during solidification influences the mechanical properties and machinability of the resulfurized steel. A coupled segregation–nucleation–growth model was developed by the finite-difference method involving solute redistribution, heterogeneous nucleation and growth kinetics. Laboratory solidification experiments were performed under various cooling rates in resulphurised 49MnVS steel. In this work, the influence of cooling rate on solute redistribution and growth size of MnS inclusions were simulated using the current coupled model, and the calculated results can provide a valuable reference for MnS formation. Increasing of the cooling rate led to early precipitation and refinement of formed MnS inclusions. Based on the simulation results and experimental data, mathematical relationships between the growing size of MnS with the cooling rate in the low ductility temperature region and in the whole solidification were obtained.
New Aromatic Bisabolane Derivatives with Lipid-Reducing Activity from the Marine Sponge Myrmekioderma sp.
Authors: Costa Margarida , Coello Laura , Urbatzka Ralph , Pérez Marta , Thorsteinsdottir Margret
Published: June 2019

The previously reported 1-(2,4-dihydroxy-5-methylphenyl)ethan-1-one (1), (1’Z)-2-(1’,5’-dimethylhexa-1’,4’-dieny1)-5-methylbenzene-1,4-diol (2), and 1,8-epoxy-1(6),2,4,7,10-bisaborapentaen-4-ol (5) together with four new structures of aromatic bisabolane-related compounds (3, 4, 6, 7) were isolated from the marine sponge Myrmekioderma sp. Compounds 1, 2, and 5 were identified based on spectral data available in the literature. The structures of the four new compounds were experimentally established by 1D and 2D-NMR and (−)-HRESIMS spectral analysis. Cytotoxic and lipid-reducing activities of the isolated compounds were evaluated. None of the isolated compounds were active against the tested cancer cell lines; however, lipid-reducing activity was found for compounds 2–5 and 7 in the zebrafish Nile red fat metabolism assay. This class of compounds should be further explored for their suitability as possible agents for the treatment of lipid metabolic disorders and obesity.
Exploring the Continuum of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy—From DNA to Clinical Expression
Authors: Popa-Fotea Nicoleta Monica , Micheu Miruna Mihaela , Bataila Vlad , Scafa-Udriste Alexandru , Dorobantu Lucian , Scarlatescu Alina Ioana , Zamfir Diana , Stoian Monica , Onciul Sebastian , Dorobantu Maria
Published: June 2019

The concepts underlying hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) pathogenesis have evolved greatly over the last 60 years since the pioneering work of the British pathologist Donald Teare, presenting the autopsy findings of “asymmetric hypertrophy of the heart in young adults”. Advances in human genome analysis and cardiac imaging techniques have enriched our understanding of the complex architecture of the malady and shaped the way we perceive the illness continuum. Presently, HCM is acknowledged as “a disease of the sarcomere”, where the relationship between genotype and phenotype is not straightforward but subject to various genetic and nongenetic influences. The focus of this review is to discuss key aspects related to molecular mechanisms and imaging aspects that have prompted genotype–phenotype correlations, which will hopefully empower patient-tailored health interventions.
Liquiritin and Liquiritigenin Induce Melanogenesis via Enhancement of p38 and PKA Signaling Pathways
Authors: Uto Takuhiro , Ohta Tomoe , Yamashita Akihisa , Fujii Shunsuke , Shoyama Yukihiro
Published: June 2019

Background: Liquiritin (LQ) and its aglycone, liquiritigenin (LQG), are major flavonoids in licorice root (Glycyrrhiza spp.). Our preliminary screening identified LQ and LQG, which promote melanin synthesis in the melanoma cells. In this study, we investigated the molecular mechanism of melanin synthesis activated by LQ and LQG. Methods: Murine (B16-F1) and human (HMVII) melanoma cell lines were treated with LQ or LQG. After incubation, melanin contents, intracellular tyrosinase activity, and cell viability were evaluated. Protein levels were determined using Western blotting. Results: LQ and LQG activated melanin synthesis and intracellular tyrosinase activity. The induction of melanin and intracellular tyrosinase activity by LQG was higher than that by LQ. LQ and LQG induced the expression of tyrosinase, tyrosinase-related protein (TRP)-1, and TRP-2. LQ and LQG also enhanced microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) expression, and cyclic AMP-responsive element-binding protein (CREB) phosphorylation. The phosphorylation of p38 and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), but not Akt, was significantly increased by LQ or LQG. Furthermore, LQ- or LQG-mediated melanin synthesis was partially blocked by p38 inhibitor (SB203580) and protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor (H-89); however, ERK kinase (MEK) inhibitor (U0126) and phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor (LY294002) had no effect. Conclusions: The results suggest that LQ and LQG enhance melanin synthesis by upregulating the expression of melanogenic enzymes, which were activated by p38 and PKA signaling pathways, leading to MITF expression and CREB phosphorylation.
Ethnomedicinal Uses of Plant Resources in the Machhapuchchhre Rural Municipality of Kaski District, Nepal
Authors: Adhikari Mahendra , Thapa Rashmi , Kunwar Ripu Mardhan , Devkota Hari Prasad , Poudel Prakash
Published: June 2019

Background: Medicinal plants are being used by the majority of the population throughout the world for their primary health care needs. The reliance is also prevalent in Nepal, aided by its ethnic and biological diversity. This study aimed to catalogue the ethnomedicinal knowledge of plants used by local people of Machhapuchchhre Rural Municipality of Kaski district. Methods: Data were collected between February 2017 and April 2018 from eight different villages of the Kaski district by using semi-structured interviews, guided field works, focus group discussions, and in-depth interviews. The reported traditional uses were supported by local assistants, cataloguing vernacular names and crosschecking with the earlier published and gray literature. Results: A total of 105 medicinal plants, belonging to 58 families and 99 genera were documented to treat 70 different diseases and ailments. The highest numbers of plants (37) were used for gastrointestinal disorders and the lowest (4) were used for female genital disorders. Commonly used parts were underground portions (28 species) followed by fruits and seeds (25 species each). The most preferred dosage form was juice, used for 50 ailments, and the oral route was the most favored route of administration (77 species). The medicinal properties of 22 plant species were found hitherto unreported in the district. Conclusions: The study area was found to be rich in plant resources and the people have ample knowledge on the use of medicinal plants. Due to a lack of proper documentation, conservation, and cultivation practices, valuable plant species are at risk of extinction. Thus, appropriate conservation measures and scientific assessment of plant-lore in the district is immediately required.
Development of a Cr-Ni-V-N Medium Manganese Steel with Balanced Mechanical and Corrosion Properties
Authors: Allam Tarek , Guo Xiaofei , Sevsek Simon , Lipińska-Chwałek Marta , Hamada Atef , Ahmed Essam , Bleck Wolfgang
Published: June 2019

A novel medium manganese (MMn) steel with additions of Cr (18%), Ni (5%), V (1%), and N (0.3%) was developed in order to provide an enhanced corrosion resistance along with a superior strength–ductility balance. The laboratory melted ingots were hot rolled, cold rolled, and finally annealed at 1000 °C for 3 min. The recrystallized single-phase austenitic microstructure consisted of ultrafine grains (~1.3 µm) with a substantial amount of Cr- and V-based precipitates in a bimodal particle size distribution (100–400 nm and <20 nm). The properties of the newly developed austenitic MMn steel X20CrNiMnVN18-5-10 were compared with the standard austenitic stainless steel X5CrNi18-8 and with the austenitic twinning-induced plasticity (TWIP) steel X60MnAl17-1. With a total elongation of 45%, the MMn steel showed an increase in yield strength by 300 MPa and in tensile strength by 150 MPa in comparison to both benchmark steels. No deformation twins were observed even after fracture for the MMn steel, which emphasizes the role of the grain size and precipitation-induced change in the austenite stability in controlling the deformation mechanism. The potentio-dynamic polarization measurements in 5% NaCl revealed a very low current density value of 7.2 × 10−4 mA/cm2 compared to that of TWIP steel X60MnAl17-1 of 8.2 × 10−3 mA/cm2, but it was relatively higher than that of stainless steel X5CrNi18-8 of 2.0 × 10−4 mA/cm2. This work demonstrates that the enhanced mechanical properties of the developed MMn steel are tailored by maintaining an ultrafine grain microstructure with a significant amount of nanoprecipitates, while the high corrosion resistance in 5% NaCl solution is attributed to the high Cr and N contents as well as to the ultrafine grain size.