bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-term cropping and fertilization influences soil organic carbon, soil water repellency, and soil hydrophobicity
Authors: Miller J.J. , Owen M.L. , Yang X.M. , Drury C.F. , Reynolds W.D. , Chanasyk D.S.
Published: March 2020

Long-term (58 yr) cropping and fertilization effects on soil water repellency were determined for a clay loam soil in southwestern Ontario, Canada by measuring soil organic carbon (SOC), soil water repellency index (RI), and soil hydrophobicity (SH). The 12 treatments (non-replicated) included fertilized and non-fertilized legume-based crop rotation (ROT) with four phases (corn–oat–alfalfa–alfalfa), continuous corn (CC), and continuous Kentucky bluegrass (KBG). We hypothesized that SOC, RI, and SH would be greater for each phase of the ROT versus CC, KBG versus CC and ROT, and fertilized versus non-fertilized treatments. Surface (0–10 cm) soil samples were collected in the spring of 2017. Laboratory measurements were conducted to determine SOC, RI (ratio of soil sorptivity to ethanol and water), and SH (ratio of hydrophobic CH– to hydrophilic CO– functional groups). Mean SOC and SH were greater (P ≤ 0.05) for each phase of the ROT versus CC (33% to 2.4 times), KBG versus CC (3.2–6 times) and each phase of ROT (2.2–2.8 times), and fertilized versus non-fertilized rotation oats and KBG (15%–30%). Mean RI was greater for KBG versus CC (4.8 times) and KBG versus each phase of the ROT (3.0–5.5 times) under fertilization only, greater for fertilized versus non-fertilized KBG (6.8 times), but similar for each phase of ROT versus CC. In general, legume-based rotations, perennial grass, and fertilizer enhanced SOC and SH, and to a lesser extent soil RI.
Operando Visualization of Water Distribution in Gas Diffusion Media of PEFCs with an Optimized Neutron Grating Interferometer
Authors: Siegwart M. , Manzi-Orezzoli V. , Valsecchi J. , Harti R. P. , Kagias M. , Strobl M. , Grünzweig C. , Schmidt T. J. , Boillat P.
Published: March 2020

We demonstrated the use of a neutron grating interferometer setup (nGI) with a significantly improved contrast-to-noise ratio of the operando dark-field (DF) contrast visualization of water in gas diffusion media (GDM). The nGI parameters were optimized in such a way that we could perform DF imaging of a fully operational fuel cell including two GDM layers (anode and cathode side). The DF contrast is sensitive to the size and shape of microstructures and is in principle not influenced by large water clusters present in flow field channels. Thus, DF imaging can be applied to analyze water present in GDM overlapping with channels, which is not possible by attenuation contrast imaging when the cell is placed perpendicular to the beam direction. In GDM regions overlapping with ribs the distinction of hydrophilic and hydrophobic areas is facilitated as well compared to attenuation contrast imaging. Finally, we show that disturbing artefacts introduced by moving water clusters in the channels are considerably reduced by applying a golden ratio phase stepping scan strategy.
COVID-19 pandemic, coronaviruses, and diabetes mellitus
Authors: Muniyappa Ranganath , Gubbi Sriram
Published: March 2020

The pandemic of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), a disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is causing substantial morbidity and mortality. Older age and presence of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and obesity significantly increases the risk for hospitalization and death in COVID-19 patients. In this Perspective, informed by the studies on SARS-CoV-2, Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS-CoV), and the current literature on SARS-CoV-2, we discuss potential mechanisms by which diabetes modulates the host-viral interactions and host-immune responses. We hope to highlight gaps in knowledge that require further studies pertinent to COVID-19 in patients with diabetes.
COVID-19, ACE2, and the cardiovascular consequences
Authors: South Andrew M. , Diz Debra I. , Chappell Mark C.
Published: March 2020

The novel SARS coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 pandemic may be particularly deleterious to patients with underlying cardiovascular disease (CVD). The mechanism for SARS-CoV-2 infection is the requisite binding of the virus to the membrane-bound form of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and internalization of the complex by the host cell. Recognition that ACE2 is the coreceptor for the coronavirus has prompted new therapeutic approaches to block the enzyme or reduce its expression to prevent the cellular entry and SARS-CoV-2 infection in tissues that express ACE2 including lung, heart, kidney, brain, and gut. ACE2, however, is a key enzymatic component of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS); ACE2 degrades ANG II, a peptide with multiple actions that promote CVD, and generates Ang-(1–7), which antagonizes the effects of ANG II. Moreover, experimental evidence suggests that RAAS blockade by ACE inhibitors, ANG II type 1 receptor antagonists, and mineralocorticoid antagonists, as well as statins, enhance ACE2 which, in part, contributes to the benefit of these regimens. In lieu of the fact that many older patients with hypertension or other CVDs are routinely treated with RAAS blockers and statins, new clinical concerns have developed regarding whether these patients are at greater risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection, whether RAAS and statin therapy should be discontinued, and the potential consequences of RAAS blockade to COVID-19-related pathologies such as acute and chronic respiratory disease. The current perspective critically examines the evidence for ACE2 regulation by RAAS blockade and statins, the cardiovascular benefits of ACE2, and whether ACE2 blockade is a viable approach to attenuate COVID-19.

Listen to this article’s corresponding podcast at: https://ajpheart.podbean.com/e/covid-19-ace2-and-the-cardiovascular-consequences/ .
An Experimental Study on Wetting of Coal Dust by Surfactant Solution
Authors: Jiang Yidan , Wang Pengfei , Liu Ronghua , Pei Ye , Wu Gaogao
Published: March 2020

Surfactants can improve the wetting performance of the dust‐reduction spraying water, thus improving the dust‐reduction effect by spray. In this study, the performance of surfactant solution in wetting coal dust was investigated through experiments. In addition, the effects of surfactant type, mass fraction, metamorphic degree of coal, particle size, and additives were investigated. According to the results of surface tension experiments, the surface tension of the solution decreased with the increase of the concentration of surfactant. However, after reaching CMC, the surface tension did not have significantly decrease. SDBS and OP‐10 had higher efficiency in decreasing the surface tension than the other two types of surfactants. The addition of sodium sulfate additives can further reduce the surface tension of the surfactant solution by a limited range. The coal dust wetting experiment showed that with the increase in the concentration of the surfactant, the contact angle of the droplets on the coal dust tablet was continuously reduced, and the wettability of the solution was continuously improved. The wettability of the OP‐10 solution was optimal. At the same concentration, the minimum contact angle can be obtained in the OP‐10 solution. As the contact angle of the coal dust increased, the growth rate in the coal dust reverse osmosis moisture absorption of the surfactant solution relative to the pure water increased. After the addition of sodium sulfate, the reverse osmosis moisture absorption of coal dust increased to varying degrees. In addition, as the concentration of additives increased, the moisture absorption of coal dust increased.
Magnitude of Intimate Partner Violence and Associated Factors among Pregnant Women in Ethiopia
Authors: Adhena Girmay , Oljira Lemessa , Dessie Yadeta , Hidru Hagos Degefa
Published: March 2020

Background. Intimate partner violence during pregnancy is the most common and major public health problem and human rights issue worldwide and has a negative effect on the lives of both mother and fetus. Despite its prominence, this issue has received little attention in Ethiopia as well as many sub-Saharan African countries. This study assessed the magnitude of intimate partner violence and associated factors among pregnant women in Ofla District, Tigray, Ethiopia. Methods. A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted from March 1 to 30, 2019, among 543 pregnant women who visited antenatal care in the health facilities. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select study participants. Pretested, interviewer-administered data collection was done using a standardized World Health Organization multicountry questionnaire for women’s health and domestic violence against women. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were carried out to identify factors associated with violence. p value was set at p<0.05. Results. The overall prevalence of intimate partner violence during the current pregnancy was 37.5%: psychological (25.1%), sexual (17.7%), and physical violence (13.4%). Violence was associated with unplanned pregnancy ((AOR = 4.56, 95% CI: (2, 10.28)), unmarried women ((AOR = 2.59, 95% CI: (1.18, 5.73)), having alcoholic partner ((AOR = 3.3, 95% CI: (2.1, 5.16)), spouse’s multiple sexual partners status ((AOR = 5.1, 95% CI: (2.2, 12)), acceptance of violence by women ((AOR = 1.85, 95% CI: (1.1, 3.16)), low decision-making power of women ((AOR = 2.64, 95% CI: (1.6, 4.3)), and no interest in current pregnancy by partner ((AOR = 5.9, 95% CI: (2.36, 14.9)). Conclusions. More than one-third of pregnant women experienced intimate partner violence during a recent pregnancy. This is high and may lead to health consequences for both mothers and fetuses. Addressing gender inequitable norms, the culture of silence (support) to intimate partner violence in the community and women’s reproductive health information through intervention measures are very important to minimize the problem.
Experimental and Theoretical Study on the False Positive of Monomethyltin Determination in Toys Based on Gastric Juice Migration
Authors: Huang Lina , Li Hanke , Li Yuhang , Ren Peng , Yi Lezhou , Chen Yang , Ma Tongmei
Published: March 2020

Background. Organic tin compounds (OTCs), a group of high-risk hazardous substances, are highly concerned in safety regulation of consumer products especially for toys because they can cause serious damage to organs after prolonged or repeated exposure. Gastric juice migration is nowadays widely implemented to assess organic tin intake from toys or food-contact materials; however, the followed up detection method using sodium tetraethylborate [NaB(Et4)] as a derivatization agent may directly lead to false positive of monomethyltins (MMT). Objective. In order to avoid the phenomena of false positive of MMT in the course of laboratory testing of toys, it is necessary and important to perform relative experimental and theoretical studies to reveal the cause of false positive of MMT. Method. With metal tin powder as a representative of inorganic tin which existed in real samples, it was treated with artificial gastric juice (0.07 mol/L·HCl), followed by ethyl derivatization using sodium tetraethylborate [NaB(Et)4] and then analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) according to the procedure specified in the standard of EN 71-3:2013+A3:2018 issued by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN). Results. Without any OTCs in the starting materials, MMT false positive can be reproduced by detecting 0.56 mg/L of triethylmethyltin (TEMT) together with approximately 1000 mg/L of tetraethyltin (TeET), which is similar to real samples. Further, it is demonstrated that the detected amount of TEMT is linearly related with the added amount of NaB(Et)4, and that the formation of TEMT (methyl derivative) is easier than TeET (ethyl derivative) even though the ethyl group is present in a larger amount than the methyl group. Conclusions. The phenomena of MMT false positive which occurred in the laboratory testing of toys is mainly because that TEMT is highly likely to be obtained from the reaction of inorganic tin and trace level of methylation agent impurities contained in the derivatization reagent—NaB(Et)4. To avoid MMT false positive, it is concluded that the maximum acceptable mole ratio of methylation agent impurities contained in NaB(Et)4 is approximately 0.028%. This research is helpful to be aware of methylation impurities and is favorable to avoid false judgment caused by MMT false positive in routine analysis of toys.
Antioxidant Properties of Lapachol and Its Derivatives and Their Ability to Chelate Iron (II) Cation: DFT and QTAIM Studies
Authors: Pajoudoro Djafarou Ngouh , Lissouck Daniel , Ateba Amana Baruch , Mfomo Joseph Zobo , Abdallah A. E. B. , Toze Alfred Aristide Flavien , Mama Désiré Bikele
Published: March 2020

The elucidation of the complexation of lapachol and its derivatives to Fe2+ cation has been done using the density functional theory (DFT). This complexation has been limited to bidentate and tridentate to Fe2+ cation. Geometry optimizations have been implemented in gas and solution phase (water, acetonitrile, chlorobenzene, benzene, and toluene) for ligands at B3LYP/6-311++G (d,p) level of theory using B3LYP/6-31+G(d,p) optimized data as starting point. But, the geometrical optimizations in solution phase of the 22 complexes analyzed of lapachol and its derivatives to Fe2+ cation were restricted to acetonitrile and benzene. The complexation energy and the metal ion affinity (MIA) have also been calculated using the B3LYP method. The results obtained indicated a proportionality between the MIA values and the retained charge on Fe2+ cation for k2-(O1,O2) modes. But, an inverse proportionality has been yielded between these two parameters for k3-(O2, C=C) tridentate modes. For k3-(O3,C=C) tridentate mode coordination, the higher stability has been obtained. In this latter tridentate coordination in gas phase, the topological analysis of complexes exhibits the fact that the electron density is concentrated between the O3 oxygen atom of the ligand attached to Fe2+ and this metal cation. Moreover, the hydrogen bond strength calculated for isolated ligands (situated between 23.92 and 30.15 kJ/mol) is in the range of normal HBs. Collectively, all the complexation processes have shown to be highly exothermic. Our results have also shown that the electron extraction from Fe2+...Lai complexes is more difficult compared to that from free ligands.
RGB Pixel Brightness Characteristics of Linked Color Imaging in Early Gastric Cancer: A Pilot Study
Authors: Sun Xue , Zhao Li
Published: March 2020

Background and Aims. Linked color imaging (LCI) helps screen and diagnose for early gastric cancer by color contrast in different mucosa. RGB (red, green, and blue) pixel brightness quantifies colors, which is relatively objective. Limited studies have combined LCI images with RGB to help screen for early gastric cancer (EGC). We aimed to evaluate the RGB pixel brightness characteristics of EGC and noncancer areas in LCI images. Methods. We retrospectively reviewed early gastric cancer (EGC) patients and LCI images. All pictures were evaluated by at least two endoscopic physicians. RGB pixel brightness analysis of LCI images was performed in MATLAB software to compare the cancer with noncancer areas. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was analyzed for sensitivity, specificity, cut-off, and area under the curve (AUC). Results. Overall, 38 early gastric cancer patients were enrolled with 38 LCI images. Pixel brightness of red, green, and blue in cancer was remarkably higher than those in noncancer areas (190.24±37.10 vs. 160.00±40.35, p<0.001; 117.96±33.91 vs. 105.33±30.01, p=0.039; 114.36±34.88 vs. 90.93±30.14, p<0.001, respectively). Helicobacter plyori (Hp) infection was not relevant to RGB distribution of EGC. Whether the score of Kyoto Classification of Gastritis (KCG) is ≥4 or <4, the pixel brightness of red, green, and blue was not disturbed in both cancer and noncancer (p>0.05). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for differentiating cancer from noncancer was calculated. The maximum area under the curve (AUC) was 0.767 in B/G, with a sensitivity of 0.605, a specificity of 0.921, and a cut-off of 0.97. Conclusions. RGB pixel brightness was useful and more objective in distinguishing early gastric cancer for LCI images.
CXCL14 Overexpression Attenuates Sepsis-Associated Acute Kidney Injury by Inhibiting Proinflammatory Cytokine Production
Authors: Lv Jing , Wu Zhi-Lin , Gan Zheng , Gui Ping , Yao Shang-Long
Published: March 2020

CXCL14 is a relatively novel chemokine with a wide spectrum of biological activities. The present study was designed to investigate whether CXCL14 overexpression attenuates sepsis-associated acute kidney injury (AKI) in mice. Sepsis model has been established by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). CLP induced AKI in mice as assessed by increased renal neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) expression and serum creatinine levels. We found that renal CXCL14 expression in the kidney was significantly decreased at 12 hours after CLP. Correlation analysis demonstrated a negative association between renal CXCL14 expression and AKI markers including serum creatinine and renal NGAL. Moreover, CXCL14 overexpression reduced cytokine (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β) production and NGAL expression in the kidney and decreased serum creatinine levels. In vivo and in vitro experiments found that CXCL14 overexpression inhibited M1 macrophage polarization but increased M2 polarization. Together, these results suggest that CXCL14 overexpression attenuates sepsis-associated AKI probably through the downregulation of macrophages-derived cytokine production. However, further studies are required to elucidate the underlying mechanism.
Construction and Engineering Application of Salt-Discharging Model for Local Saline-Alkali Soil with Compact Structure in the Yellow River Delta
Authors: Liu Chuanxiao , Li Kesheng , Ma Depeng
Published: March 2020

Structural characteristics of local saline-alkali soil in the Yellow River Delta were studied by microscopic test methods of liquid nitrogen vacuum freeze-drying machine, fully automatic mercury intrusion porosimetry, X-ray diffractometer, and high- and low-vacuum scanning electron microscope. Permeability of the saline-alkali soil belongs to two grades of micropermeable water and extremely micropermeable water. Average volume ratio of pores with diameters no more than 2 μm is 86.25%; therefore, the saline-alkali soil may mainly consist of micropores and ultramicropores. Most void ratios of the soil are not beyond 0.5, and its dry densities are all greater than 1.6 g/cm3. Because average proportion of the clay minerals is only 12.24%, they are obviously not the main reason for poor permeability of the local saline-alkali soil. Based on the structural characteristics of compact structure and slightly developed fracture, mechanisms of surface runoff, and water-salt migration of the local saline-alkali soil, a salt-discharging engineering model mainly with surface runoff was established considering auxiliary infiltration and without interflow. Salt content distribution of the local saline-alkali soil is studied experimentally, by which relationship between salt content and conductivity has been fitted as y = 2.74x. The relationships between depth and salt content in the saline-alkali soil region present that the depth of salt-discharging engineering as open ditch should be beyond 60 cm. From the relationships between precipitation and salt content, the effectiveness of engineering measure shown in the salt-discharging model has been verified immediately or indirectly, and the engineering salt-discharging model may be suitable for managing saline-alkali soil in the Yellow River Delta.
Attitudes, Opportunities, and Challenges for Clinical Pharmacy Services in Mizan-Tepi University Teaching Hospital, Southwest Ethiopia: Health Care Providers’ Perspective
Authors: Hambisa Solomon , Abie Abebaw , Nureye Dejen , Yimam Mohammed
Published: March 2020

Background. Clinical pharmacy is a branch of health sciences that focuses more on the patient than on drug product-oriented services to optimize drug therapy. This study aimed to assess attitudes, opportunities, and challenges for clinical pharmacy services from the health care providers’ perspective in Mizan-Tepi University Teaching Hospital. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted among physicians, nurses, pharmacy professionals, and public health officers working in Mizan-Tepi University Teaching Hospital. A total of 119 health care providers participated in the study, and data were collected using a pretested self-administered questionnaire. The study tool was designed based on the instruments used in the previously conducted studies. Collected data were coded, entered, and analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS, version 21). Furthermore, the descriptive and inferential statistics were performed. Results. Out of 119 health care providers included in the study, 59.66% of them were nurses. The majority of the health care providers (85.71%) had a positive attitude towards clinical pharmacy services. Most of the study participants mentioned that acceptance of clinical pharmacy services among health care providers as a major opportunity to clinical pharmacy services in Mizan-Tepi University Teaching Hospital. The major challenges described for the clinical pharmacy services include lack of support from hospital management, absence of clearly defined roles and responsibilities for the clinical pharmacists, and shortage of pharmacy workforce and staff turnover. Conclusion. Proper strategies should be in place to improve clinical pharmacy services and promote pharmacists’ role in providing patient care.
A Note on the Appell Hypergeometric Matrix Function F2
Authors: Hidan M. , Abdalla M.
Published: March 2020

In this article, we introduce some of the mathematical properties of the second Appell hypergeometric matrix function F2(A, B1, B2, C1, C2; z, w) including integral representations, transformation formulas, and series formulas.
Effects of Land Use Types on Selected Soil Properties in Central Highlands of Ethiopia
Authors: Jaleta Negasa Daniel
Published: March 2020

Rapid land use changes have been observed in recent years in central Ethiopia. The shift from natural ecosystem to artificial ecosystem is the main direction of change. Therefore, this study was initiated to assess the effects of land use types on selected soil properties in Meja watershed, central highlands of Ethiopia. The randomized complete block design, including three adjacent land use types as treatments with three replications and two soil depths (0–15 and 15–30 cm), was applied in this study. There were significant differences in some soil properties among the three land use types. Lower soil pH and electric conductivity were observed in cultivated land soils than Eucalyptus woodlots soils. This has indicated the worsening soil conditions due to the shift from Eucalyptus woodlots to cultivated land. Less decomposition rate of the Eucalyptus leaves and debris collection for fuel could result in lowest soil organic carbon at the upper layer of Eucalyptus woodlot soils. However, the highest soil organic carbon at the lower layer was observed in Eucalyptus woodlot soils. The presence of highest soil potassium, cation exchange capacity, and exchangeable potassium in cultivated land soil was related to application of artificial fertilizers. Grassland soils have highest exchangeable sodium at the lower layer while highest soil carbon and sum cations at the upper layer, which can be related to the grass root biomass return and less surface runoff on grassland. There was the highest exchangeable sodium percentage on Eucalyptus woodlot soils at the upper layer; it can be due to the less surface nutrient movement and growth characteristics of the tree. The soils in cultivated land was shifted to more acidic and less electric conductivity.This shift can lead to soil quality deterioration that affects the productivity of the soils in the future.Nutrient leaching, application of artificial fertilizer, soil erosion, and continuous farming have affected the soil properties in cultivated land. The presence of highest exchangeable sodium percentage and lowest sum of cations at the upper layer of soil in Eucalyptus woodlot should be noted for management and decision makers. The previous negative speculations on Eucalyptus woodlots which can be related with the soil texture, soil moisture, bulk density, total nitrogen, exchangeable magnesium, calcium, and available sulfur should be avoided because there were no significant differences observed among the three land use types in the study area. The study recommends further studies on the effects of Eucalyptus on soil properties by comparing among different ages and species of Eucalyptus. Finally, planting of Eucalyptus on central highlands of Ethiopia should be supported by land use management decision.
Effect of Tillage Treatments of Hairy Vetch Residues on Soil Inorganic-N Distributions and Corn Growth in a Subtropical Region
Authors: Anugroho Fajri , Kitou Makoto
Published: March 2020

Conservation tillage has many advantages in crop production and weed control management. N-residue of hairy vetch as a green manure cover crop through tillage and no-tillage practices may increase inorganic-N level in soils and contribute to sustainable agriculture. Prior to corn cultivation, hairy vetch was cut after growing in the pots for 103 days. Six treated soils were prepared for no-tillage treatments (SRN, RN, and CN) and for tillage treatments (SRT, RT, and CT), where the soils were treated by shoot and root of hairy vetch residues, only root residues, and without application of hairy vetch as a control, respectively. Seeds of corn (Zea mays L.) were sown and grown for 56 days after sowing. The shoot and root biomasses of corn under no-tillage were higher than those of tillage. Furthermore, the shoot biomass of corn in both SRN and SRT were higher than that in other treatments. The root biomass of corn was higher in upper layers (0–5 cm depth) and deeper layers (>10 cm depth) than in middle layers (5–10 cm depth) of soils. In the upper layer, the NH4-N contents of no-tillage were higher at 9 and 23 DAT than those of tillage. The NH4-N content of the soils for no-tillage in the middle layer and the deeper layer was lower than that of the CT treatment. The NO3-N content of no-tillage in the middle and deeper layers was lower than that of CT at 23 and 65 DAT. N-uptake of corn in both no-tillage and tillage treatments with hairy vetch addition was higher than that of the control.
Computational Study to Identify the Effects of the KCNJ2 E299V Mutation in Cardiac Pumping Capacity
Authors: Jeong Da Un , Lee Jiyeong , Lim Ki Moo
Published: March 2020

The KCNJ2 gene mutations induce short QT syndrome (SQT3) by directly increasing the IK1 current. There have been many studies on the electrophysiological effects of mutations such as the KCNJ2 D172N that cause the SQT3. However, the KCNJ2 E299V mutation is distinguished from other representative gene mutations that can induce the short QT syndrome (SQT3) in that it increased IK1 current by impairing the inward rectification of K+ channels. The studies of the electromechanical effects on myocardial cells and mechanisms of E299V mutations are limited. Therefore, we investigated the electrophysiological changes and the concomitant mechanical responses according to the expression levels of the KCNJ2 E299V mutation during sinus rhythm and ventricular fibrillation. We performed excitation-contraction coupling simulations using a human ventricular model with both electrophysiological and mechanical properties. In order to observe the electromechanical changes due to the expression of KCNJ2 E299V mutation, the simulations were performed under normal condition (WT), heterogeneous mutation condition (WT/E299V), and pure mutation condition (E299V). First, a single-cell simulation was performed in three types of ventricular cells (endocardial cell, midmyocardial cell, and epicardial cell) to confirm the electrophysiological changes and arrhythmogenesis caused by the KCNJ2 E299V mutation. In three-dimensional sinus rhythm simulations, we compared electrical changes and the corresponding changes in mechanical performance caused by the expression level of E299V mutation. Then, we observed the electromechanical properties of the E299V mutation during ventricular fibrillation using the three-dimensional reentry simulation. The KCNJ2 E299V mutation accelerated the opening of the IK1 channel and increased IK1 current, resulting in a decrease in action potential duration. Accordingly, the QT interval was reduced by 48% and 60% compared to the WT condition, for the WT/E299V and E299V conditions, respectively. During sustained reentry, the wavelength was reduced due to the KCNJ2 E299V mutation. Furthermore, there was almost no ventricular contraction in both WT/E299V and E299V conditions. We concluded that in both sinus rhythm and fibrillation, the KCNJ2 E299V mutation results in very low contractility regardless of the expression level of mutation and increases the risk of cardiac arrest and cardiac death.
Pediococcus acidilactici P25 Protected Caenorhabditis elegans against Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli K88 Infection and Transcriptomic Analysis of Its Potential Mechanisms
Authors: Tan Keqin , Deng Dun , Ma Xianyong , Cui Yiyan , Tian Zhimei
Published: March 2020

Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) K88 is a zoonotic pathogen. Previous studies have shown that lactic acid bacteria (LAB) have great potential in promoting health and resisting pathogenic infections; however, relatively little research has been done on the Pediococcus genus of LAB. This study is aimed at exploring the mechanisms imparted by Pediococcus acidilactici P25 against ETEC K88 in Caenorhabditis elegans. The probiotic performance of P25 was investigated in vitro. Colonization of K88 in the intestinal tract of C. elegans and abundance of enterotoxin genes were measured. In addition, the transcriptome of C. elegans infected by K88 was analyzed. The result showed that P25 possessed the ability to produce acid, as well as high tolerances to acidic and high bile salt concentrations. Coculture revealed that the growth of ETEC K88 was significantly inhibited by the presence of P25. The median survival of C. elegans fed P25 was 2 days longer than the group infected with K88 alone (P < 0.01). At the same time, the number of colonizing K88 and the abundances of estB and elt were reduced by up to 71.70% and 2.17 times, respectively, by P25. Transcriptome data indicated that P25 affected expression of genes relative to innate immune response and upregulated the abundance of genes in multiple pathways of C. elegans, including peroxisome, longevity, and mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways. These results demonstrated that in the presence of P25, K88 colonization and their expression of enterotoxin genes were reduced. This was accomplished through the alteration of environmental parameters (pH and bile salt) as well as through the promotion of the innate immune response processes, increased longevity, and increased antipathogenic bacteria‐related pathways. This work highlights the potential application of P. acidilactici P25 as a probiotic resistant to ETEC K88.
Physical, Microbial, and Chemical Quality of Hot-Air-Dried Persimmon (Diospyros kaki) Chips during Storage
Authors: Milczarek Rebecca R. , Vilches Ana M. , Olsen Carl W. , Breksa Andrew P. , Mackey Bruce E. , Brandl Maria T.
Published: March 2020

Recent efforts have been made to develop hot-air-dried chips as a value-added product for persimmon fruit (Diospyros kaki). However, the long-term quality of this product and its dependence on processing conditions and packaging type have not yet been explored. Hence, in this work, chips were prepared from “Hachiya” persimmon fruit in 2 ways: 2 mm thickness fruit slices, hot-air-dried for 5 hours (Preparation 2–5), and 6 mm slices, dried for 10 hours (Preparation 6–10). The dried chips were then packaged into 2 bag types (plastic zip-top and metallized polyethylene terephthalate (Met-PET) with desiccant packets), stored under ambient conditions, and sampled for moisture-related, microbial, texture, and chemical quality traits throughout the 1-year storage study. It was found that–with the exception of a marked decrease in ascorbic acid (vitamin C)—all 4 Preparation/Packaging combinations yielded products that maintained acceptable color, microbial, nutritional, and textural quality throughout the entire study. Compared to Preparation 2–5 chips, Preparation 6–10 chips generally had lower contents of healthy nutrients—antioxidant compounds, ascorbic acid, and carotenoids. Evidence of invertase activity was found for Preparation 6–10 chips but not for Preparation 2–5 chips. For both preparations, the contents of ascorbic acid and carotenoids experienced time-dependent decreases. Plastic zip-top bags and Met-PET bags with desiccant packets performed equally well as packaging for most of the quality metrics tracked during this study. Overall, this work has demonstrated that hot-air-drying of persimmon slices is a promising approach to create a value-added product with at least one year of shelf-life.
Model Predictive Control with a Relaxed Cost Function for Constrained Linear Systems
Authors: Sotelo David , Favela-Contreras Antonio , Kalashnikov Viacheslav V. , Sotelo Carlos
Published: March 2020

The Model Predictive Control technique is widely used for optimizing the performance of constrained multi-input multi-output processes. However, due to its mathematical complexity and heavy computation effort, it is mainly suitable in processes with slow dynamics. Based on the Exact Penalization Theorem, this paper presents a discrete-time state-space Model Predictive Control strategy with a relaxed performance index, where the constraints are implicitly defined in the weighting matrices, computed at each sampling time. The performance validation for the Model Predictive Control strategy with the proposed relaxed cost function uses the simulation of a tape transport system and a jet transport aircraft during cruise flight. Without affecting the tracking performance, numerical results show that the execution time is notably decreased compared with two well-known discrete-time state-space Model Predictive Control strategies. This makes the proposed Model Predictive Control mainly suitable for constrained multivariable processes with fast dynamics.
Organically Modified Montmorillonite as Nanoreactor to Improve the Grafting Degree of Maleic Anhydride onto Polypropylene
Authors: Li Zhenghui , Yu Peijie , Chen Lu , Zhang Lingli , Hu Hongyu
Published: March 2020

The application of an organically modified montmorillonite nanoreactor in the reactive extrusion process of the free radical grafting of maleic anhydride onto polypropylene (PP) can increase the MAH grafting degree on the PP. The mechanism of grafting was studied by using transmission electron microscopy and high temperature gel permeation chromatography. It was found that both the strong interactions between MAH and MMT surface and the encapsulation effect of active species confined in o-MMT improved the grafting degree.
Growth, Nodulation, and Yield Responses of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) as Influenced by Combined Application of Rhizobium Inoculant and Phosphorus in the Guinea Savanna Zone of Ghana
Authors: Asante Michael , Ahiabor Benjamin Dzorgbenyui Kofi , Atakora Williams K.
Published: March 2020

Groundnut yields obtained by farmers in northern Ghana are generally low due to low soil fertility resulting from continuous cropping coupled with low use of external inputs. There is therefore the need to use systems’ internal resources such as biological nitrogen fixation efficiently to enhance crop production. This on-station experiment investigated nodulation and pod yield responses of three groundnut varieties, namely Obolo, Oboshie and Samnut 22 to inoculation with rhizobium inoculants of exotic strains, namely Bradyrhizobium yuanmingense (BR 3267) and USDA 3456 in combination with 0 kg P ha−1, 15 kg P ha−1 and 30 kg P ha−1. Combined application of 30 kg P ha−1 and BR 3267 increased the nodule numbers in Obolo, Oboshie and Samnut 22 by 144%, 188% and 56%, respectively compared to their uninoculated counterparts. Inoculation with BR 3267 produced the highest pod yield in all the three varieties with yields increasing from 13 to 40% over that of the uninoculated treatments, with BR 3267-inoculated Samnut 22 giving the highest yield of 2013 kg ha−1. P fertilizer and rhizobium inoculant also had a significant interactive influence on the pod yield of groundnut. Combined application of 30 kg P ha−1 and rhizobium inoculation increased the groundnut yield by 64 to 68%. The study observed a positive interaction between the rhizobium strains and P fertilizer.
Digestive Fermentation, Antioxidant Status, and Haemato-Biochemical Indices of Growing Rabbits Fed on Diets Supplemented with Ziziphus spina-christi Leaf
Authors: Abduljawad Suha Hashim
Published: March 2020

The objective of the study was to assess the effect of diets supplemented with Ziziphus spina-christi leaf on digestive fermentation, antioxidant status, and haemato-biochemical indices of growing rabbits. Ziziphus leaves (ZLs) of Ziziphus spina-christi were collected from Sidr trees scattered throughout the city of Medina, Saudi Arabia. Three formulated diets containing 0, 10, and 20 g Ziziphus spina-christi/Kg diet as supplementation were offered ad libitum. The organic matter content of ZL was higher. Chemical compositions were comparable in all of the contents of the tested diet. Quantities of gas released from the control diet were higher, and then the gases released decreased significantly (P<0.05) with the addition of ZL. The values of NH3-N were taken as the same trend. The addition of a high level of ZL to rabbit diets led to a decrease (P<0.05) in the total count of bacteria as well as the number of E. coli and Clostridium spp. However, the number of Enterococcus bacteria was not affected by supplementation. Haemoglobin parameters of the control group and groups 2 and 3 were compared: white blood cell count and red blood cell count. These observations of total protein and albumin within the range of reference values were reported in healthy rabbits, while glucose significantly decreased with the addition of ZL and AST in the blood increased significantly. The values of TP, albumin, and ALT measurements showed no significant differences among groups fed on test diets. Significant differnces in serum immunoglobulins were observed between the groups, while the high levels of ZL supplement led to a significant (P<0.05) increase in the serum IgA, IgG, and IgM levels. Antioxidants expressed as T-AOC, GSH-Px, T-SOD, and CAT in the blood of animals fed on diets containing high levels of ZL were significantly higher. Higher serum T-AOC, T-SOD, and CAT activities were observed in rabbits supplemented with a high level of ZL compared with the control group (P<0.05). The supplementation of ZL tended to increase serum GSH-Px activity. The addition of ZL to rabbit diets led to an increase in dry matter intake. On the other hand, there was no significant change in the apparent digestion coefficient of DM, OM, CP, and fat. Conclusion. Dried ZL supplementation up to 20 g/Kg diet might improve the bacterial community, antioxidants, biochemical parameters and blood constituents of rabbits, and digestibility.
Comparative Analysis on Essential Nutrient Compositions of 23 Wild Hazelnuts (Corylus heterophylla) Grown in Northeast China
Authors: Fan Liying , Ren Jun , Yang Yuting , Zhang Limin
Published: March 2020

The essential nutrients of 23 wild hazelnuts (Corylus heterophylla) grown in northeast China were analyzed in order to sieve good species and study the factors effected on nut quality. Hazelnut kernels contained 45.76–62.78% fat similar to Corylus avellana and main fatty acids were oleic acid (79.75%), linoleic acid (15.42%), palmitic acid (3.29%), and polyunsaturated fatty acids ranged between 10.37% and 25.88%. Average protein, soluble sugar, starch, and ash contents of hazelnut kernels were 25.12%, 4.98%, 2.03%, and 3.04%, respectively. The amount of amino acids, mostly as glutamic acid, arginine, and aspartic acid, was also determined by the hazelnut varieties. The abovementioned variation was explained by growing environmental differences. Among them, the 11th sample was highest in protein content (30.21%) and 18th sample highest in fat content, while the 5th and 14th samples had relatively balanced nutrients. So, when planning to select new cultivars, we primarily considered different hazelnut qualities.
Mensaje italiano desde el futuro
Authors: Fuentes Bravo Patricio
Published: March 2020

Italia es una de las naciones más golpeadas por la pandemia COVID-19. Como científico chileno que vive y trabaja en Milán (región de Lombardía, norte de Italia), sigo con atención e incertidumbre las acciones que la autoridad en Chile está poniendo en práctica. Desde la detección de los primeros casos en febrero hasta ahora, he podido advertir varias razones por las que Italia enfrenta un escenario complejo y que pueden ser tenidas en consideración al evaluar la situación en Chile.
Does the Spleen Have a Function in Digestion? Medical History, Phylogenetic and Embryological Development of the Splenogastric System
Authors: Weinzirl Johannes , Scheffers Tom , Garnitschnig Lydia , Andrae Lukas , Heusser Peter
Published: March 2020

Background: Before the spleen was discovered to be a lymphatic blood organ, it had for centuries been considered to be a digestive organ. Concepts of a regulative, secretory and resorptive function in the digestive system were based mainly on a postulated connection between the stomach and the spleen. Splenogastric vascular connections have recently been rediscovered by modern surgery. Summary: To test the hypothesis that the spleen has a digestive function, this article reviews the literature focusing on the interaction between the spleen and the stomach. We examine the historical medical view of the spleen and stomach system and the reasons why a digestive function was abandoned in the 17th and 18th centuries. We then review the rediscovery of the splenogastric system and the present-day state of knowledge (anatomical origin, variability, haemodynamics) and present it in terms of the phylogenetic and embryological development of the spleen and stomach system. Key Message: Splenogastric arteries and gastrosplenic veins form a portal system which directly connects the spleen and stomach parenchyma. Despite its mesodermal anlage, phylogenetically and embryologically the spleen is intimately interconnected with the entodermal stomach parenchyma but detaches from this in the course of development. Further study is required to establish whether the splenogastric system is merely an evolutive remnant or actually a part of a functioning spleen-stomach system as postulated in complementary and integrative medicine.
Impact of Depression on Weight Variation after Bariatric Surgery: A Three-Year Observational Study
Authors: Pedro Jorge , Neves João Sérgio , Ferreira Maria João , Guerreiro Vanessa , Salazar Daniela , Viana Sara , Mendonça Fernando , Silva Maria Manuel , Brandão Isabel , Belo Sandra , Freitas Paula , Varela Ana , Carvalho Davide ,   AMTCO Group
Published: March 2020

Introduction: The association between obesity and depression has been repeatedly established. However, little is known about the impact that the diagnosis of depression before bariatric surgery (DDBS) may have on weight loss. Objective: To evaluate the impact of DDBS on weight outcomes. Methods: Retrospective study of patients submitted to BS. Patients with no weight, no current medication data, or those submitted to revision surgery were excluded. Patients were considered to have DDBS based on taking antidepressants prior to BS or if there was a medical history of past or current depression. Patients with and without a depression history were compared using independent t test. A multivariate logistic regression model was created to evaluate predictors of weight variation (variables included: age, sex, and type of surgery). Results: A total of 616 patients did not have a history of depression and 230 had DDBS. There was a statistically significant difference in the BMI variation between groups. On average, individuals with DDBS lost 1.4 kg/m2 less than those without DDBS. In the multivariate analysis, the group with DDBS, compared with the group without DDBS, presented on average less –0.9 kg/m2 (95% CI –1.7 to –0.2, p = 0.018) BMI variation. Conclusion: DDBS is a predictor of lower weight loss after the surgical procedure. Even after adjusting for confounding variables such as age, sex, and BS type, this effect remains.
Microenvironment-Derived FGF-2 Stimulates Renal Cell Carcinoma Cell Proliferation through Modulation of p27Kip1: Implications for Spatial Niche Formation and Functional Intratumoral Heterogeneity
Authors: Hou Weibin , Kaczorowski Adam , Lantwin Philippa , Kippenberger Maximilian , Schütz Viktoria , Franke Desiree , Dieffenbacher Svenja Christina , Hohenfellner Markus , Duensing Stefan
Published: March 2020

Background/Objective: Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is characterized by a high degree of functional intratumoral heterogeneity (ITH). This is highlighted by the finding that tumor cell proliferation and intracellular signaling occur preferentially in the tumor periphery. The driving forces for such a spatial organization are largely unknown. Herein, we investigate the role of the tumor microenvironment in the control of tumor cell proliferation and functional ITH. Methods: Conditioned media (CM) derived from nonmalignant peritumoral kidney tissue were used to stimulate RCC cells in vitro. A neutralization assay was used to characterize the role of FGF-2 in the CM. The molecular mechanisms underlying the action of CM on RCC cells were investigated using immunoblotting, flow cytometry and immunofluorescence microscopy. Lastly, a series of ccRCCs were stained for Ki-67 and p27Kip1, and expression was analyzed in both tumor periphery and center. Results: We show that CM derived from nonmalignant kidney cells adjacent to an RCC can downregulate the expression of the CDK inhibitor p27Kip1 through enhanced protein degradation in an FGF-2-dependent fashion. FGF-2 functions mainly through the PI3K/AKT pathway downstream of its receptors, and RCC cells with constitutively high AKT activity show not only an enhanced degradation of p27Kip1 through the Emi1-Skp2 axis, but also a subcellular mislocalization of p27Kip1 to the cytoplasmic compartment. Such a mislocalization was also detected in the tumor periphery in vivo suggesting that p27Kip1 plays an important role in shaping this spatial niche. Conclusions: Our results suggest that the tumor microenvironment is involved in shaping the tumor peripheral niche by stimulating the enhanced proliferation that is characteristic for this zone.