bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Continuum Modeling of Discrete Plant Communities: Why Does It Work and Why Is It Advantageous?
Authors: Meron Ehud , Bennett Jamie J. R. , Fernandez-Oto Cristian , Tzuk Omer , Zelnik Yuval R. , Grafi Gideon
Published: October 2019

Understanding ecosystem response to drier climates calls for modeling the dynamics of dryland plant populations, which are crucial determinants of ecosystem function, as they constitute the basal level of whole food webs. Two modeling approaches are widely used in population dynamics, individual (agent)-based models and continuum partial-differential-equation (PDE) models. The latter are advantageous in lending themselves to powerful methodologies of mathematical analysis, but the question of whether they are suitable to describe small discrete plant populations, as is often found in dryland ecosystems, has remained largely unaddressed. In this paper, we first draw attention to two aspects of plants that distinguish them from most other organisms—high phenotypic plasticity and dispersal of stress-tolerant seeds—and argue in favor of PDE modeling, where the state variables that describe population sizes are not discrete number densities, but rather continuous biomass densities. We then discuss a few examples that demonstrate the utility of PDE models in providing deep insights into landscape-scale behaviors, such as the onset of pattern forming instabilities, multiplicity of stable ecosystem states, regular and irregular, and the possible roles of front instabilities in reversing desertification. We briefly mention a few additional examples, and conclude by outlining the nature of the information we should and should not expect to gain from PDE model studies.
On the Generalization for Some Power-Exponential-Trigonometric Inequalities
Authors: Coronel Aníbal , Kórus Peter , Lozada Esperanza , Irazoqui Elias
Published: October 2019

In this paper, we introduce and prove several generalized algebraic-trigonometric inequalities by considering negative exponents in the inequalities.
Bioactive Diketopiperazines and Nucleoside Derivatives from a Sponge-Derived Streptomyces Species
Authors: Shaala Lamiaa A. , Youssef Diaa T. A. , Badr Jihan M. , Harakeh Steve M. , Genta-Jouve Grégory
Published: October 2019

Fractionation and purification of the ethyl acetate extract of the culture of a sponge-derived actinomycete, Streptomyces species Call-36, resulted in the isolation and identification of a new diketopiperazine, actinozine A (1), cyclo(2-OH-d-Pro-l-Leu) (2), two new nucleosides, thymidine-3-mercaptocarbamic acid (3) and thymidine-3-thioamine (4), together with cyclo(d-Pro-l-Phe) (5) and cyclo(l-Pro-l-Phe) (6). The structure assignments of the compounds were carried out by interpretation of 1D and 2D NMR data and mass spectral determinations. The absolute configurations of 1 and 2 were determined by Marfey’s method and by comparison of the experimental and TDDFT-calculated ECD spectra. Actinozine A possesses an unprecedented hydroperoxy moiety at C-2 of the proline moiety, while 3 and 4 possess unusual mercaptocarbamic acid and thiohydroxylamine functionalities at N-3 of the thymine moiety. The isolated compounds displayed variable cytotoxic and antimicrobial activities.
Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Aging Evaluation of Pigment–Protein Complex Extracted from Chlorella Pyrenoidosa
Authors: Zhang Ruilin , Chen Jian , Mao Xinwu , Qi Ping , Zhang Xuewu
Published: October 2019

Oxidative stress contributes to chronic inflammatory processes implicated in aging, referred to as “inflamm-aging.” In this study, the potential anti-inflammatory and anti-aging effects of a pigment–protein complex (PPC) from Chlorella pyrenoidosa were investigated using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages and D-galactose (D-gal)-induced aging in a murine model. Results indicated that PPC inhibits the production of the inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6, and the inflammatory mediator nitric oxide (NO) in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. It also protected mice from D-gal induced informatory aging by increasing the activity of the antioxidant enzyme, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), inhibiting D-gal-induced NF-κB upregulation, and increasing PPARs expression in the brain and gut. The findings indicated that PPC has favorable anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties, and could be useful in the treatment of acute inflammation and senescence diseases.
Selective Inhibition of Liver Cancer Cells Using Venom Peptide
Authors: Anand Prachi , Filipenko Petr , Huaman Jeannette , Lyudmer Michael , Hossain Marouf , Santamaria Carolina , Huang Kelly , Ogunwobi Olorunseun O. , Holford Mandë
Published: October 2019

Increasingly cancer is being viewed as a channelopathy because the passage of ions via ion channels and transporters mediate the regulation of tumor cell survival, death, and motility. As a result, a potential targeted therapy for cancer is to use venom peptides that are selective for ion channels and transporters overexpressed in tumor cells. Here we describe the selectivity and mechanism of action of terebrid snail venom peptide, Tv1, for treating the most common type of liver cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Tv1 inhibited the proliferation of murine HCC cells and significantly reduced tumor size in Tv1-treated syngeneic tumor-bearing mice. Tv1’s mechanism of action involves binding to overexpressed transient receptor potential (TRP) channels leading to calcium dependent apoptosis resulting from down-regulation of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Our findings demonstrate the importance of modulating ion channels and the unique potential of venom peptides as tumor specific ligands in the quest for targeted cancer therapies.
Fucoidan-Rich Substances from Ecklonia cava Improve Trimethyltin-Induced Cognitive Dysfunction via Down-Regulation of Amyloid β Production/Tau Hyperphosphorylation
Authors: Park Seon Kyeong , Kang Jin Yong , Kim Jong Min , Yoo Seul Ki , Han Hye Ju , Chung Dong Hwa , Kim Dae-Ok , Kim Gun-Hee , Heo Ho Jin
Published: October 2019

Ecklonia cava (E. cava) was investigated to compare the effect of polyphenol and fucoidan extract and mixture (polyphenol:fucoidan = 4:6) on cognitive function. The ameliorating effect of E. cava was evaluated using the Y-maze, passive avoidance and Morris water maze tests with a trimethyltin (TMT)-induced cognitive dysfunction model, and the results showed that the fucoidan extract and mixture (4:6) had relatively higher learning and memory function effects than the polyphenol extract. After a behavioral test, the inhibitory effect of lipid peroxidation and cholinergic system activity were examined in mouse brain tissue, and the fucoidan extract and mixture (4:6) also showed greater improvements than the polyphenol extract. Mitochondrial activity was evaluated using mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) content, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP, ΔΨm), adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content, and mitochondria-mediated protein (BAX, cytochrome C) analysis, and these results were similar to the results of the behavioral tests. Finally, to confirm the cognitive function-related mechanism of E. cava, the amyloid-β production and tau hyperphosphorylation-medicated proteins were analyzed. Based on these results, the improvement effect of E. cava was more influenced by fucoidan than polyphenol. Therefore, our study suggests that the fucoidan-rich substances in E. cava could be a potential material for improving cognitive function by down-regulating amyloid-β production and tau hyperphosphorylation.
Effectiveness of Warm-Up Routine on the Ankle Injuries Prevention in Young Female Basketball Players: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Padua Elvira , D’Amico Agata Grazia , Alashram Anas , Campoli Francesca , Romagnoli Cristian , Lombardo Mauro , Quarantelli Matteo , Di Pinti Emanuele , Tonanzi Christian , Annino Giuseppe
Published: October 2019

Background and Objectives: Ankle joint is the most common site of injury for basketball athletes. An effective warm-up (WU) is a period of preparatory exercise to improve training performance and reduce sports injuries. Continuous examination of effective WU routines in basketball players is a necessity. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of general and combined warm up on ankle injury range of motion (ROM) and balance in young female basketball players. Materials and Methods: A sample of 28 young female basketball players were randomly allocated to either global warm up control group (GWU) (n = 11) or combined warm up experimental group (CWU) (n = 17). All participants performed 7-min of run. The CWU group performed a single leg stance barefoot with eyes closed, plank forearm position and triceps sural stretching. Participants in GWU performed walking ball handling and core stability using a Swiss ball. Both WU routines were conducted 3 times per week for 10 weeks. Outcome measurements were the Stabilometric platform and dorsiflexion lunge test. Results: Twenty-eight young female basketball players completed the study. Participants in the experimental group improved significantly in the range of motion (ROM) in right and left ankle and the center of pressure displacement (CoP). The control group did not show any changes in ankle dorsiflexion and a significant reduction in all body balance parameters. Conclusions: An 8-min combined warm-up routine for 10 weeks improves the ankle dorsiflexion ROM and CoP displacement that plays a key role in ankle injuries prevention in basketball players. Further studies are strongly needed to verify our findings.
Physical Strength Perception of Older Caregivers in Rural Areas
Authors: Muñoz-Bermejo Laura , Villafaina Santos , Collado-Mateo Daniel , Postigo-Mota Salvador , Adsuar José Carmelo
Published: October 2019

Background and objective: In an aging population, it is increasingly common for older adults to take care of other older adults. Caregiving tasks may be conditioned by the aging process. This study aims to analyze the perceived physical strength of older caregivers and its impact on the functional capacity to engage in caregiving activities. Methods: A discretionary sampling of caregivers (N = 107), ≥65 years old, in the rural health area of Badajoz (Spain) participated in this cross-sectional study. Measurements included questions about the caregiver’s role (experience, years, hours, difficulties, demands) and their perceived physical strength, ability to perform activities of daily living (ADL), need for help or difficulty for caring. Results: Older caregivers from rural areas perceived a lack of physical strength (71%). These caregivers need more help, have more difficulties, and show less ability to perform ADL. Furthermore, around 80% of the people who had a lack of strength were caring for people with severe or total dependence. There is a direct correlation between the perceived lack of physical strength and the ability to perform basic (r = 0.382, p < 0.01) and instrumental (r = 0.370, p < 0.01) activities. Conclusions: Therefore, the perception of strength and the characteristics of the cared for person may be crucial variables to successfully conduct caregiving tasks.
The Impact of High-Flow Nasal Cannula on the Outcome of Immunocompromised Patients with Acute Respiratory Failure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Cheng Li-Chin , Chang Shen-Peng , Wang Jian-Jhong , Hsiao Sheng-Yen , Lai Chih-Cheng , Chao Chien-Ming
Published: October 2019

Background and objectives: High-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) can be used as a respiratory support strategy for patients with acute respiratory failure (ARF). However, no clear evidence exists to support or oppose HFNC use in immunocompromised patients. Thus, this meta-analysis aims to assess the effects of HFNC, compared to conventional oxygen therapy (COT) and noninvasive ventilation (NIV), on the outcomes in immunocompromised patients with ARF. The Pubmed, Embase and Cochrane databases were searched up to November 2018. Materials and Methods: Only clinical studies comparing the effect of HFNC with COT or NIV for immunocompromised patients with ARF were included. The outcome included the rate of intubation, mortality and length of stay (LOS). Results: A total of eight studies involving 1433 immunocompromised patients with ARF were enrolled. The pooled analysis showed that HFNC was significantly associated with a reduced intubation rate (risk ratio (RR), 0.83; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.74–0.94, I2 = 0%). Among subgroup analysis, HFNC was associated with a lower intubation rate than COT (RR, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.75–0.95, I2 = 0%) and NIV (RR, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.40–0.86, I2 = 0%), respectively. However, there was no significant difference between HFNC and control groups in terms of 28-day mortality (RR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.58–1.04, I2 = 48%), and intensive care unit (ICU) mortality (RR, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.73–1.05, I2 = 57%). The ICU and hospital LOS were similar between HFNC and control groups (ICU LOS: mean difference, 0.49 days; 95% CI, −0.25–1.23, I2 = 69%; hospital LOS: mean difference, −0.12 days; 95% CI, −1.86–1.61, I2 = 64%). Conclusions: Use of HFNC may decrease the intubation rate in immunocompromised patients with ARF compared with the control group, including COT and NIV. However, HFNC could not provide additional survival benefit or shorten the LOS. Further large, randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm these findings.
Clinical Significance of Isolates Known to Be Blood Culture Contaminants in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Chun Sejong , Kang Cheol-In , Kim Yae-Jean , Lee Nam Yong
Published: October 2019

Background and objectives: The objective of this study was to investigate the clinical significance of isolates from blood stream infection known to be blood culture contaminants in pediatric patients. Materials and Methods: Microbiological reports and medical records of all blood culture tests issued from 2002 to 2012 (n = 76,331) were retrospectively reviewed. Evaluation for potential contaminants were done by reviewing medical records of patients with the following isolates: coagulase-negative Staphylococcus, viridans group Streptococcus, Bacillus, Corynebacterium, Micrococcus, Aerococcus, and Proprionibacterium species. Repeated cultures with same isolates were considered as a single case. Cases were evaluated for their status as a pathogen. Results: Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus had clinical significance in 23.8% of all cases. Its rate of being a true pathogen was particularly high in patients with malignancy (43.7%). Viridans group Streptococcus showed clinical significance in 46.2% of all cases. Its rate of being a true pathogen was similar regardless of the underlying morbidity of the patient. The rate of being a true pathogens for remaining isolates was 27.7% for Bacillus and 19.0% for Corynebacterium species. Conclusions: Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus and viridans group Streptococcus isolates showed high probability of being true pathogens in the pediatric population, especially in patients with underlying malignancy.
Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Fatty Pancreas in Serbian Patients with Non Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease—A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Milovanovic Tamara , Dragasevic Sanja , Stojkovic Lalosevic Milica , Zgradic Sanja , Milicic Biljana , Dumic Igor , Kmezic Stefan , Saponjski Dusan , Antic Andrija , Markovic Velimir , Popovic Dragan
Published: October 2019

Background and Objectives: The aim of the study was to determine the association between presences of fatty pancreas (FP) with the features of metabolic syndrome (MeS) in patients with non–alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and to establish a new noninvasive scoring system for the prediction of FP in patients with NAFLD. Material and Methods: 143 patients with NAFLD were classified according to FP severity grade into the two groups and evaluated for diagnostic criteria of MeS. All patients underwent sonographic examination with adiposity measurements and the liver biopsy. Liver fibrosis was evaluated semi-quantitatively according to the METAVIR scoring system and using non-invasive markers of hepatic fibrosis. Results: Waist circumference (WC) was predictive for increased risk of FP in NAFLD patients. Elevated fasting plasma glucose, total cholesterol, serum amylase and lipase levels were associated with presence of severe FP (p value = 0.052, p value = 0.007, p value = 0.014; p value = 0.024, respectively). Presence of increased amounts of mesenteric fat was associated with severe FP (p value = 0.013). The results of this study demonstrated highly significant association between NAFLD and presence of FP. The model for predicting the presence of FP was designed with probability value above 6.5. Conclusion: Pancreatic fat accumulation leads to worsening of pancreatic function which in turns exacerbates severity of metabolic syndrome associated with both, NAFLD and NAFPD.
Impact of Pruritus on Sleep Quality of Hemodialysis Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Rehman Inayat Ur , Chohan Tahir Ali , Bukhsh Allah , Khan Tahir Mehmood
Published: October 2019

Background and objectives: Chronic kidney disease (CKD)-associated pruritus is a common and disturbing condition which has a negative impact on sleep quality, as well as overall health-related quality of life of patients receiving hemodialysis. To date, no systematic review has been undertaken, and there is a lack of concise evidence that statistically quantifies the impact of pruritus based on published data. Materials and Methods: A systematic search was done for original articles published in peer-reviewed English journals from database inception on 20 December, 2018, in the following databases: PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Ovid, CINHAL, ProQuest, and Scopus. Results: A total of 9217 research articles were identified. After removal of duplicates and screening for titles and abstracts, 28 articles were selected. The prevalence of disturbed sleep was 4–94%, while the pooled proportion on random effect in the study was 40% (95% CI = 0.30 to 0.49); I2 = 99.8%. However, the prevalence of disturbed sleep quality and quantity due to pruritus was 9–76%, and the pooled proportion on random effect in the study was 50% (95% CI = 0.37 to 0.64); I2 = 99.8%. Conclusions: Patients undergoing hemodialysis who are affected by CKD-associated pruritus have a higher chance of experiencing sleep disturbances. The prevalence of disturbed sleep due to CKD-associated pruritus was found to be 9–76% in the included studies for patients receiving hemodialysis therapy.
Daily Heart Rate Variability Indices in Subjects with and Without Metabolic Syndrome Before and After the Elimination of the Influence of Day-time Physical Activity
Authors: Slušnienė Anžela , Laucevičius Aleksandras , Navickas Petras , Ryliškytė Ligita , Stankus Vytautas , Stankus Albinas , Navickas Rokas , Laucevičienė Ieva , Kasiulevičius Vytautas
Published: October 2019

Background and Objectives: The available research shows conflicting data on the heart rate variability (HRV) in metabolic syndrome (MetS) subjects. The discrepancy suggests a methodical shortcoming: due to the influence of physical activity, the standard measuring of HRV at rest is not comparable with HRV assessment based on 24 h Holter monitoring, which is preferred because of its comprehensiveness. To obtain a more reliable measure and to clarify to what extent HRV is altered in MetS, we assessed a 24 h HRV before and after the elimination of the influence of physical activity. Materials and Methods: We investigated 69 metabolic syndrome (MetS) and 37 control subjects, aged 50–55. In all subjects, 24 h monitoring of electrocardiogram, blood pressure, and actigraphy profiles were conducted. To eliminate the influence of day-time physical activity on RR intervals (RRI), a linear polynomial autoregressive model with exogenous terms (ARX) was used. Standard spectral RRI analysis was performed. Results: Subjects with MetS had blunted HRV; the diurnal SDNN index was reliably lower in the MetS group than in control subjects. The elimination of the influence of physical activity did not reveal a significant HRV change in long-term indices (SDNN, SDANN, and SD2), whilst adjacent RRI values (RMSSD, pNN50, and SD1) and SDNN index significantly increased (p < 0.001). An increase in the latter indices highlighted the HRV difference between the MetS and control groups; a significant (p < 0.001) decrease of all short-term HRV variables was found in the MetS group (p < 0.01), and low-frequency spectral components were less pronounced in the MetS group. Conclusion: The application of a polynomial autoregressive model in 24 h HRV assessment allowed for the exclusion of the influence of physical activity and revealed that MetS is associated with blunted HRV, which reflects mitigated parasympathetic tone.
Study of Annealed Aquivion® Ionomers with the INCA Method †
Authors: Giancola Stefano , Arciniegas Raul Andres Becerra , Fahs Armand , Chailan Jean-Franҫois , Di Vona Maria Luisa , Knauth Philippe , Narducci Riccardo
Published: October 2019

We investigated the possibility to increase the working temperature and endurance of proton exchange membranes for fuel cells and water electrolyzers by thermal annealing of short side chain perfluorosulfonic acid (SSC-PFSA) Aquivion® membranes. The Ionomer nc Analysis (INCA method), based on nc/T plots where nc is a counter elastic force index, was applied to SSC-PFSA in order to evaluate ionomer thermo-mechanical properties and to probe the increase of crystallinity during the annealing procedure. The enhanced thermal and mechanical stability of extruded Aquivion® 870 (equivalent weight, EW = 870 g·mol−1) was related to an increase of long-range order. Complementary differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) measurements confirmed the increase of polymer stiffness by the annealing treatment with an enhancement of the storage modulus over the whole range of temperature. The main thermomechanical relaxation temperature is also enhanced. DSC measurements showed slight base line changes after annealing, attributable to the glass transition and melting of a small amount of crystalline phase. The difference between the glass transition and melting temperatures derived from INCA plots and the ionic-cluster transition temperature derived from DMA measurements is consistent with the different experimental conditions, especially the dry atmosphere in DMA. Finally, the annealing procedure was also successfully applied for the first time to an un-crystallized cast membrane (EW = 830 g·mol−1) resulting in a remarkable mechanical and thermal stabilization.
Mitochondrial Dysfunction in the Transition from NASH to HCC
Authors: Léveillé Mélissa , Estall Jennifer L.
Published: October 2019

The liver constantly adapts to meet energy requirements of the whole body. Despite its remarkable adaptative capacity, prolonged exposure of liver cells to harmful environmental cues (such as diets rich in fat, sugar, and cholesterol) results in the development of chronic liver diseases (including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)) that can progress to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The pathogenesis of these diseases is extremely complex, multifactorial, and poorly understood. Emerging evidence suggests that mitochondrial dysfunction or maladaptation contributes to detrimental effects on hepatocyte bioenergetics, reactive oxygen species (ROS) homeostasis, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, inflammation, and cell death leading to NASH and HCC. The present review highlights the potential contribution of altered mitochondria function to NASH-related HCC and discusses how agents targeting this organelle could provide interesting treatment strategies for these diseases.
Adapting to the Airways: Metabolic Requirements of Pseudomonas aeruginosa during the Infection of Cystic Fibrosis Patients
Authors: La Rosa Ruggero , Johansen Helle Krogh , Molin Søren
Published: October 2019

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality of cystic fibrosis patients. During the infection, the bacteria colonize the nutritional rich lung mucus, which is present in the airway secretions in the patients, and they adapt their phenotype accordingly to the lung environment. In the airways, P. aeruginosa undergoes a broad metabolic rewiring as a consequence of the nutritional and stressful complexity of the lungs. However, the role of such metabolic rewiring on the infection outcome is poorly understood. Here, we review the metabolic evolution of clinical strains of P. aeruginosa during a cystic fibrosis lung infection and the metabolic functions operating in vivo under patho-physiological conditions. Finally, we discuss the perspective of modeling the cystic fibrosis environment using genome scale metabolic models of P. aeruginosa. Understanding the physiological changes occurring during the infection may pave the way to a more effective treatment for P. aeruginosa lung infections.
Microneedle Patterning of 3D Nonplanar Surfaces on Implantable Medical Devices Using Soft Lithography
Authors: Jang Sun-Joo , Doshi Tejas , Nerayo Jerusalem , Caprio Alexandre , Alaie Seyedhamidreza , Auge Jordyn , Min James K. , Mosadegh Bobak , Dunham Simon
Published: October 2019

Micropatterning is often used to engineer the surface properties of objects because it allows the enhancement or modification of specific functionalities without modification of the bulk material properties. Microneedle arrays have been explored in the past for drug delivery and enhancement of tissue anchoring; however, conventional methods are primarily limited to thick, planar substrates. Here, we demonstrate a method for the fabrication of microneedle arrays on thin flexible polyurethane substrates. These thin-film microneedle arrays can be used to fabricate balloons and other inflatable objects. In addition, these thin-filmed microneedles can be transferred, using thermal forming processes, to more complex 3D objects on which it would otherwise be difficult to directly pattern microneedles. This function is especially useful for medical devices, which require effective tissue anchorage but are a challenging target for micropatterning due to their 3D nonplanar shape, large size, and the complexity of the required micropatterns. Ultrathin flexible thermoplastic polyurethane microneedle arrays were fabricated from a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) mold. The technique was applied onto the nonplanar surface of rapidly prototyped soft robotic implantable polyurethane devices. We found that a microneedle-patterned surface can increase the anchorage of the device to a tissue by more than twofold. In summary, our soft lithographic patterning method can rapidly and inexpensively generate thin-film microneedle surfaces that can be used to produce balloons or enhance the properties of other 3D objects and devices.
Phylogenetic Analyses of Xanthomonads Causing Bacterial Leaf Spot of Tomato and Pepper: Xanthomonas euvesicatoria Revealed Homologous Populations Despite Distant Geographical Distribution
Authors: Dhakal Upasana , Dobhal Shefali , Alvarez Anne M. , Arif Mohammad
Published: October 2019

Bacterial leaf spot of tomato and pepper (BLS), an economically important bacterial disease caused by four species of Xanthomonas (X. euvesicatoria (Xe), X. vesicatoria (Xv), X. gardneri (Xg), and X. perforans (Xp)), is a global problem and can cause over 50% crop loss under unfavorable conditions. Among the four species, Xe and Xv are prevalent worldwide. Characterization of the pathogens is crucial for disease management and regulatory purposes. In this study, we performed a multilocus sequence analysis (MLSA) with six genes (hrcN, dnaA gyrB, gapA, pdg, and hmbs) on BLS strains. Other Xanthomonas species were included to determine phylogenetic relationships within and among the tested strains. Four BLS species comprising 76 strains from different serological groups and diverse geographical locations were resolved into three major clades. BLS xanthomonads formed distinct clusters in the phylogenetic analyses. Three other xanthomonads, including X. albilineans, X. sacchari, and X. translucens pv. undolusa revealed less than 85%, 88%, and 89% average nucleotide identity (ANI), respectively, with the other species of Xanthomonas included in this study. Both antibody and MLSA data showed that Xv was clearly separated from Xe and that the latter strains were remarkably clonal, even though they originated from distant geographical locations. The Xe strains formed two separate phylogenetic groups; Xe group A1 consisted only of tomato strains, whereas Xe group A2 included strains from pepper and tomato. In contrast, the Xv group showed greater heterogeneity. Some Xv strains from South America were closely related to strains from California, while others grouped closer to a strain from Indiana and more distantly to a strain from Hawaii. Using this information molecular tests can now be devised to track distribution of clonal populations that may be introduced into new geographic areas through seeds and other infected plant materials.
Genetic Diversity and Demographic History of Ganoderma boninense in Oil Palm Plantations of Sarawak, Malaysia Inferred from ITS Regions
Authors: Midot Frazer , Lau Sharon Yu Ling , Wong Wei Chee , Tung Hun Jiat , Yap Mui Lan , Lo Mei Lieng , Jee Mui Sie , Dom Simon Peter , Melling Lulie
Published: October 2019

Ganoderma boninense causes basal stem rot (BSR) and is responsible for substantial economic losses to Southeast Asia’s palm oil industry. Sarawak, a major producer in Malaysia, is also affected by this disease. Emergence of BSR in oil palm planted on peat throughout Sarawak is alarming as the soil type was previously regarded as non-conducive. Phylogenetic analysis indicated a single species, G. boninense as the cause of BSR in Sarawak. Information on evolutionary and demographic history for G. boninense in Sarawak inferred through informative genes is lacking. Hence, a haplotype study on single nucleotide polymorphisms in internal transcribed spacers (SNPs-ITS) of G. boninense was carried out. Sequence variations were analysed for population structure, phylogenetic and phylogeographic relationships. The internal transcribed spacers (ITS) region of 117 isolates from four populations in eight locations across Sarawak coastal areas revealed seven haplotypes. A major haplotype, designated GbHap1 (81.2%), was found throughout all sampling locations. Single nucleotide polymorphisms were observed mainly in the ITS1 region. The genetic structure was not detected, and genetic distance did not correlate with geographical distance. Haplotype network analysis suggested evidence of recent demographic expansion. Low genetic differences among populations also suggested that these isolates belong to a single G. boninense founder population adapting to oil palm as the host.
Cows Get Crohn’s Disease and They’re Giving Us Diabetes
Authors: Dow Coad Thomas , Sechi Leonardo A
Published: October 2019

Increasingly, Johne’s disease of ruminants and human Crohn’s disease are regarded as the same infectious disease: paratuberculosis. Mycobacterium avium ss. paratuberculosis (MAP) is the cause of Johne’s and is the most commonly linked infectious cause of Crohn’s disease. Humans are broadly exposed to MAP in dairy products and in the environment. MAP has been found within granulomas such as Crohn’s disease and can stimulate autoantibodies in diseases such as type 1 diabetes (T1D) and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Moreover, beyond Crohn’s and T1D, MAP is increasingly associated with a host of autoimmune diseases. This article suggests near equivalency between paucibacillary Johne’s disease of ruminant animals and human Crohn’s disease and implicates MAP zoonosis beyond Crohn’s disease to include T1D.
A Holistic Approach in Re-Mining Old Tailings Deposits for the Supply of Critical-Metals: A Portuguese Case Study
Authors: Figueiredo Janine , Vila M. Cristina , Fiúza António , Góis Joaquim , Futuro Aurora , Dinis M. Lurdes , Martins Diogo
Published: October 2019

Demand growth for metallic minerals has been faced with the need for new techniques and improving technologies for all mining life-cycle operations. Nowadays, the exploitation of old tailings and mine-waste facilities could be a solution to this demand, with economic and environmental advantages. The Panasqueira Mine has been operating for more than a century, extracting tungsten and tin ore. Its first processing plant, “Rio”, was located near the Zêrere river, where mineral-processing residues were deposited on the top hillside on the margin of this river in the Cabeço do Pião tailings dam. The lack of maintenance and monitoring of this enormous structure in the last twenty years represents a high risk to the environment and the population of the surrounding region. A field-sample campaign allowed the collection of data, and resulted from laboratory tests to use regression optimization. Re-mining the tailings by hydrometallurgical methods was considered to satisfy the two conditions of metal demand and environmental risk. The metal content in Cabeço do Pião was shown be enough for environmental restoration. The re-mining solution was studied, taking into account the technical, economic, social, and environmental aspects.
CdSe QD Biosynthesis in Yeast Using Tryptone-Enriched Media and Their Conjugation with a Peptide Hecate for Bacterial Detection and Killing
Authors: Sur Vishma Pratap , Kominkova Marketa , Buchtova Zaneta , Dolezelikova Kristyna , Zitka Ondrej , Moulick Amitava
Published: October 2019

The physical and chemical synthesis methods of quantum dots (QDs) are generally unfavorable for biological applications. To overcome this limitation, the development of a novel “green” route to produce highly-fluorescent CdSe QDs constitutes a promising substitute approach. In the present work, CdSe QDs were biosynthesized in yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae using a novel method, where we showed for the first time that the concentration of tryptone highly affects the synthesis process. The optimum concentration of tryptone was found to be 25 g/L for the highest yield. Different methods were used to optimize the QD extraction from yeast, and the best method was found to be by denaturation at 80 °C along with an ultrasound needle. Multiple physical characterizations including transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and spectrophotometry confirmed the optical features size and shape distribution of the QDs. We showed that the novel conjugate of the CdSe QDs and a cell-penetrating peptide (hecate) can detect bacterial cells very efficiently under a fluorescent microscope. The conjugate also showed strong antibacterial activity against vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (VRSA), methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and Escherichia coli, which may help us to cope with the problem of rising antibiotic resistance.
Actinide and Lanthanide Adsorption onto Hierarchically Porous Carbons Beads: A High Surface Affinity for Pu
Authors: Luca Vittorio , Sizgek Devlet G. , Sizgek Erden , Arrachart Guilhem , Rey Cyrielle , Scales Nicholas , Aly Zaynab , Drisko Glenna L.
Published: October 2019

Structured carbon adsorbents were prepared by carbonizing macroporous polyacrylonitrile beads whose pores were lined with a mesoporous phenolic resin. After activation, the beads were tested for minor actinide (Np and Am), major actinide (Pu and U) and lanthanide (Gd) adsorption in varying acidic media. The activation of the carbon with ammonium persulfate increased the surface adsorption of the actinides, while decreasing lanthanide adsorption. These beads had a pH region where Pu could be selectively extracted. Pu is one of the longest lived, abundant and most radiotoxic components of spent nuclear fuel and thus, there is an urgent need to increase its security of storage. As carbon has a low neutron absorption cross-section, these beads present an affordable, efficient and safe means for Pu separation from nuclear waste.
A Novel Strategy for Fabricating a Strong Nanoparticle Monolayer and Its Enhanced Mechanism
Authors: Zhou Jun , Cao Xiaoqing , Li Linlin , Cui Xingcheng , Fu Yu
Published: October 2019

This work presents the preparation of cross-linking Au nanoparticle (NP) monolayer membranes by the thiol exchange reaction and their enhanced mechanical properties. Dithiol molecules were used as a cross-linking mediator to connect the adjacent nanoparticles by replacing the original alkanethiol ligand in the monolayer. After cross-linking, the membrane integrity was maintained and no significant fracture was observed, which is crucial for the membrane serving as a nanodevice. TEM (Transmission Electron Microscopy), UV–Vis absorption spectrum, and GISAXS (grazing incidence small angle X-ray scattering) were performed to characterize the nanostructure before and after cross-linking. All results proved that the interparticle distance in the monolayer was controllably changed by using dithiols of different lengths as the cross-linking agent. Moreover, the modulus of the cross-linking monolayer was measured by atomic force microscopy (AFM) and the result showed that the membrane with a longer dithiol molecule had a larger modulus, which might derive from the unbroken and intact structure of the cross-linking monolayer due to the selected appropriately lengthed dithiol. This study provides a new way of producing a nanoparticle monolayer membrane with enhanced mechanical properties.
A New Route for Low Pressure and Temperature CWAO: A PtRu/MoS2_Hyper-Crosslinked Nanocomposite
Authors: Castaldo Rachele , Iuliano Mariagrazia , Cocca Mariacristina , Ambrogi Veronica , Gentile Gennaro , Sarno Maria
Published: October 2019

PtRu/MoS2 nanoparticles (NPs) (PtRu alloy partially coated by one-layer MoS2 nanosheets) were prepared through a ‘wet chemistry’ approach. The obtained NPs were directly embedded, at 5 parts per hundred resin/rubber (phr) loading, in a poly (divinylbenzene-co-vinyl benzyl chloride) hyper-crosslinked (HCL) resin, synthesized via bulk polymerization of the resin precursors, followed by conventional FeCl3 post-crosslinking. The obtained HCL nanocomposites were characterized to evaluate the effect of the NPs. It shows a high degree of crosslinking, a good dispersion of NPs and a surface area up to 1870 ± 20 m2/g. The catalytic activity of the HCL nanocomposite on phenol wet air oxidation was tested at low air pressure (Pair = 0.3 MPa) and temperature (T = 95 °C), and at different phenol concentrations. At the lower phenol concentration, the nanocomposite gives a total organic carbon (TOC) conversion of 97.1%, with a mineralization degree of 96.8%. At higher phenol concentrations, a phenol removal of 99.9%, after 420 min, was achieved, indicating a quasi-complete depletion of phenol, with a TOC conversion of 86.5%, corresponding to a mineralization degree of 84.2%. Catalyst fouling was evaluated, showing good reusability of the obtained nanocomposite.
Soldering of Passive Components Using Sn Nanoparticle Reinforced Solder Paste: Influence on Microstructure and Joint Strength
Authors: Atieh Anas , Abedalaziz Tala , AlHazaa Abdulaziz , Weser Michael , Al-Kouz Wael , Sari Maen , Alhoweml Ibrahim
Published: October 2019

In this study, the effects of adding Sn nanopowder (particle size < 150 nm) to three solder pastes SAC3-X(H)F3+, SCAN-Ge071-XF3+, and water washable WW50-SAC3 are evaluated regarding microstructure, morphology, joint strength, and electrical resistance. The nanopowder was added at a rate of 10% by weight and then mechanically mixed until homogenous solder paste was obtained. The results showed that the addition of Sn nanoparticles resulted in homogenous bond formation for SAC-3 and SCAN, while voids and bubbles formation slightly increased within the joint interface for the water washable solder paste. The SCAN + Sn nano reinforced solder paste showed increased variation of joint strength from 12.6 to 39.9 N, while the water washable + Sn nanopowder reinforced solder paste showed less variability in joint strength from 17.3 to 33.9 N. Both sets of solder paste with and without Sn nano reinforced solder paste showed a reliable quality joint under mechanical shock testing after six shocks in six milliseconds with an 87.1 ms pulse duration. The results showed that Sn nanoparticles resulted in a small resistance change, while RDC values (in mΩ) slightly decreased for SAC and increased for SCAN and further increases for water washable solder paste.
Purification of Fluorescently Derivatized N-Glycans by Magnetic Iron Nanoparticles
Authors: Váradi Csaba , Sikora Emőke , Vanyorek László , Viskolcz Béla
Published: October 2019

A novel glycoanalytical approach was developed in this study for the purification of fluorescently derivatized N-glycans. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) modified iron-nanoparticles were synthetized by the combination of sonochemical treatment and combustion method. The prepared nanomaterials were applied for a systematic clean-up optimization to maximize purification efficiency of 2-AA labelled glycans. PEG 1000 modified iron-oxalate was found to be the most effective for the selective enrichment of serum N-glycans providing high reproducibility. Different acetonitrile percentages for binding and washing steps were also tested to ensure the same relative peak areas compared to the unpurified sample. The generated novel clean-up strategy provides a potential route to use in-house synthetized magnetic nanoparticles for glycan sample preparation.
Cord Blood-Derived Exosomal CNTN2 and BDNF: Potential Molecular Markers for Brain Health of Neonates at Risk for Iron Deficiency
Authors: Marell Paulina S. , Blohowiak Sharon E. , Evans Michael D. , Georgieff Michael K. , Kling Pamela J. , Tran Phu V.
Published: October 2019

Maternal iron deficiency anemia, obesity, and diabetes are prevalent during pregnancy. All are associated with neonatal brain iron deficiency (ID) and neurodevelopmental impairment. Exosomes are extracellular vesicles involved in cell–cell communication. Contactin-2 (CNTN2), a neural-specific glycoprotein, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) are important in neurodevelopment and found in exosomes. We hypothesized that exosomal CNTN2 and BDNF identify infants at risk for brain ID. Umbilical cord blood samples were measured for iron status. Maternal anemia, diabetes, and body mass index (BMI) were recorded. Cord blood exosomes were isolated and validated for the exosomal marker CD81 and the neural-specific exosomal marker CNTN2. Exosomal CNTN2 and BDNF levels were quantified by ELISA. Analysis of CNTN2 and BDNF levels as predictors of cord blood iron indices showed a direct correlation between CNTN2 and ferritin in all neonates (n = 79, β = 1.75, p = 0.02). In contrast, BDNF levels inversely correlated with ferritin (β = −1.20, p = 0.03), with stronger association in female neonates (n = 37, β = −1.35, p = 0.06), although there is no evidence of a sex-specific effect. Analysis of maternal risk factors for neonatal brain ID as predictors of exosomal CNTN2 and BDNF levels showed sex-specific relationships between infants of diabetic mothers (IDMs) and CNTN2 levels (Interaction p = 0.0005). While male IDMs exhibited a negative correlation (n = 42, β = −0.69, p = 0.02), female IDMs showed a positive correlation (n = 37, β = 0.92, p = 0.01) with CNTN2. A negative correlation between BNDF and maternal BMI was found with stronger association in female neonates (per 10 units BMI, β = −0.60, p = 0.04). These findings suggest CNTN2 and BNDF are respective molecular markers for male and female neonates at risk for brain ID. This study supports the potential of exosomal markers to assess neonatal brain status in at-risk infants.
First Trimester Serum Copper or Zinc Levels, and Risk of Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension
Authors: Lewandowska Małgorzata , Sajdak Stefan , Marciniak Wojciech , Lubiński Jan
Published: October 2019

Early identification of women at risk of developing pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) is very important. The involvement of copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) in the oxidative balance suggests the possibility of their association with this disease, in which oxidative stress plays a key role. However, it has not been established so far whether the microelement levels in early pregnancy may be risk markers of the disease, as prospective studies are limited in number. In our innovative single-center study, we identified from a prospective cohort of healthy women in the 10–14th week of a single pregnancy: women subsequently developing pregnancy-induced hypertension (n = 121) and matched women remaining normotensive (n = 363). We measured the concentrations of microelements in the serum from 10–14 week, using the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The odds ratios of the disease (and 95% confidence intervals) were assessed in logistic regression. In the whole cohort, the odds ratio (OR) of PIH was 1.52 (p = 0.174) for women in the lowest (Q1) quartile of Cu (≤1540.58 µg/L) compared with women in the highest (Q4) quartile (>1937.46 µg/L), but adjusted odds ratio (AOR) was 2.17 (p = 0.019) after adjusted for pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) and gestational age at recruitment. The higher levels of Cu in the subgroup of BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 compared to normal BMI were found (1847.64 vs. 1673.36 µg/L; p < 0.0001). In the subgroup of women with the normal pre-pregnancy BMI, the adjusted odds ratio of PIH was AOR = 2.95 (p = 0.040) for Q1 vs. Q4 quartile. Our results suggest that lower Cu levels in early pregnancy may be connected with higher risk of PIH, but BMI affected estimated odds ratios. Zinc levels had no effect on the risk.
Alternative Protein and Iron Sources from Edible Insects but Not Solanum torvum Improved Body Composition and Iron Status in Malnourished Rats
Authors: Agbemafle Isaac , Hanson Nicole , Bries Amanda E. , Reddy Manju B.
Published: October 2019

Solanum torvum (STO) and edible insects are potential dietary approaches to prevent malnutrition. Hence, we determined the effect of STO and insect powders on improving nutritional status in malnourished rats. Malnutrition was induced in rats by feeding 5% protein, ~2 ppm Fe (LPI) diet for 21 days. During the 14 day repletion, five groups of rats (n = 8) were fed diets supplemented with Acheta domesticus (cricket, ADO), Rhynchophorus phoenicis fabricius (palm weevil larvae, RFA), STO, ADO + STO (TAD), and casein + ferrous sulfate (PIS, positive control), as well as a non-supplemented group (negative control, LPI). A normal (NOM) group was fed protein-Fe sufficient (PIS) diet throughout the study. Body composition was measured by Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. The hemoglobin (Hb) repletion method was used to assess relative biological value (RBV, compared to PIS) of the supplemented groups. No differences were found in weight gain, bone mineral content, lean and fat mass, and organ weights among the edible insects and PIS groups, but these results differed from STO and the LPI groups. An increase in Hb Fe and RBV with ADO and RFA was comparable to PIS. ADO and RFA could be excellent sources of protein and bioavailable Fe, making it a sustainable, low-cost food source to prevent malnutrition in humans.