bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How to Educate Pregnant Women about Endocrine Disruptors?
Authors: Rouillon Steeve , El Ouazzani Houria , Hardouin Jean-Benoit , Enjalbert Line , Rabouan Sylvie , Migeot Virginie , Albouy-Llaty Marion
Published: March 2020

Background: Despite mediatization, only half of pregnant women are informed about endocrine disruptors (EDs). We wished to inquire about appropriate environmental health education procedures during pregnancy: Who, when, and how? Methods: The question stems from a comprehensive population health intervention research project. It includes qualitative studies aimed at constructing an educational program in environmental health and an accompanying assessment tool. The validation of a customized questionnaire (PREVED© for Pregnancy Prevention Endocrine Disruptors) about the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of pregnant women regarding exposure to EDs was carried out in a quantitative study. Results: Health education by a prenatal professional with communication skills should take place as early as possible, during the preconception period or early pregnancy, as part of individual consultation or group workshops. In order to customize the discourse and to develop women’s empowerment, concomitant presentation of the risks by the products used in each room and of previous solutions is recommended. Conclusion: Appropriate health education procedures on EDs should be done at every contact but taking the KAP of pregnant women into account first. We propose all educational actions should be accompanied by questioning of the KAP of pregnant women; for example, with questions from the PREVED© questionnaire.
Spatio-Temporal Variations of Satellite-Based PM2.5 Concentrations and Its Determinants in Xinjiang, Northwest of China
Authors: Wang Wei , Samat Alim , Abuduwaili Jilili , Ge Yongxiao
Published: March 2020

With the aggravation of air pollution in recent years, a great deal of research on haze episodes is mainly concentrated on the east-central China. However, fine particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution in northwest China has rarely been discussed. To fill this gap, based on the standard deviational ellipse analysis and spatial autocorrelation statistics method, we explored the spatio-temporal variation and aggregation characteristics of PM2.5 concentrations in Xinjiang from 2001 to 2016. The result showed that annual average PM2.5 concentration was high both in the north slope of Tianshan Mountain and the western Tarim Basin. Furthermore, PM2.5 concentrations on the northern slope of the Tianshan Mountain increased significantly, while showing an obviously decrease in the western Tarim Basin during the period of 2001–2016. Based on the result of the geographical detector method (GDM), population density was the most dominant factor of the spatial distribution of PM2.5 concentrations (q = 0.550), followed by road network density (q = 0.423) and GDP density (q = 0.413). During the study period (2001–2016), the driving force of population density on the distribution of PM2.5 concentrations showed a gradual downward trend. However, other determinants, like DEM (Digital elevation model), NSL (Nighttime stable light), LCT (Land cover type), and NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index), show significant increased trends. Therefore, further effort is required to reveal the role of landform and vegetation in the spatio-temporal variations of PM2.5 concentrations. Moreover, the local government should take effective measures to control urban sprawl while accelerating economic development.
Research Models for Studying Vascular Calcification
Authors: Herrmann Jaqueline , Babic Milen , Tölle Markus , van der Giet Markus , Schuchardt Mirjam
Published: March 2020

Calcification of the vessel wall contributes to high cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Vascular calcification (VC) is a systemic disease with multifaceted contributing and inhibiting factors in an actively regulated process. The exact underlying mechanisms are not fully elucidated and reliable treatment options are lacking. Due to the complex pathophysiology, various research models exist evaluating different aspects of VC. This review aims to give an overview of the cell and animal models used so far to study the molecular processes of VC. Here, in vitro cell culture models of different origins, ex vivo settings using aortic tissue and various in vivo disease-induced animal models are summarized. They reflect different aspects and depict the (patho)physiologic mechanisms within the VC process.
Comparative Analysis of High-Throughput Assays of Family-1 Plant Glycosyltransferases
Authors: McGraphery Kate , Schwab Wilfried
Published: March 2020

The ability of glycosyltransferases (GTs) to reduce volatility, increase solubility, and thus alter the bioavailability of small molecules through glycosylation has attracted immense attention in pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and cosmeceutical industries. The lack of GTs known and the scarcity of high-throughput (HTP) available methods, hinders the extrapolation of further novel applications. In this study, the applicability of new GT-assays suitable for HTP screening was tested and compared with regard to harmlessness, robustness, cost-effectiveness and reproducibility. The UDP-Glo GT-assay, Phosphate GT Activity assay, pH-sensitive GT-assay, and UDP2-TR-FRET assay were applied and tailored to plant UDP GTs (UGTs). Vitis vinifera (UGT72B27) GT was subjected to glycosylation reaction with various phenolics. Substrate screening and kinetic parameters were evaluated. The pH-sensitive assay and the UDP2-TR-FRET assay were incomparable and unsuitable for HTP plant GT-1 family UGT screening. Furthermore, the UDP-Glo GT-assay and the Phosphate GT Activity assay yielded closely similar and reproducible KM, vmax, and kcat values. Therefore, with the easy experimental set-up and rapid readout, the two assays are suitable for HTP screening and quantitative kinetic analysis of plant UGTs. This research sheds light on new and emerging HTP assays, which will allow for analysis of novel family-1 plant GTs and will uncover further applications.
Effect of a Resveratrol/Quercetin Mixture on the Reversion of Hypertension Induced by a Short-Term Exposure to High Sucrose Levels Near Weaning and a Long-Term Exposure That Leads to Metabolic Syndrome in Rats
Authors: Castrejón-Téllez Vicente , Villegas-Romero Mariana , Rubio-Ruiz María Esther , Pérez-Torres Israel , Carreón-Torres Elizabeth , Díaz-Díaz Eulises , Guarner-Lans Verónica
Published: March 2020

Hypertension is an important global public health problem. Excess sucrose during a short period near weaning (short sucrose period, SSP; sucrose during rat postnatal days 12 to 28) increases the risk of developing hypertension during adulthood and sucrose ingestion for 6 months after weaning also results in metabolic syndrome (MS) accompanied by hypertension. The aim of this study was to test if the mechanisms that lead to hypertension induced by SSP and MS are similarly modified by a resveratrol/quercetin mixture (RSV/QSC) that targets epigenetic cues. We studied the reversion of hypertension by an RSV/QSC mixture administered for 1 month (from month 6 to month 7 of age) in these two models, since it is effective against some signs of MS. RSV/QSC might determine Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and Sirtuin 3 (SIRT3) expression that modulates the expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), which synthesizes nitric oxide (NO), and of superoxide dismutases (SOD1 and 2), which are antioxidant enzymes that have an impact on the NO levels. Short- (SSP) and long-term (MS) exposure to sucrose induced hypertension and RSV/QSC reversed it. It increased the insulin sensitivity, which may determine the eNOS expression. eNOS expression was decreased in aortas from SSP and MS rats and RSV/QSC only elevated its levels in aortas from MS rats. SIRT1 was also only increased in the MS aortas. Hypertension was accompanied by a decrease in total non-enzymatic antioxidant defenses in SSP and MS aortas, which improved with the RSV/QSC treatment. SOD1 expression was not modified by the sucrose treatments, but SOD2 expression was decreased in SSP and MS aortas. The RSV/QSC treatment increased SOD1 expression in MS aortas. SIRT3 was not modified by the sucrose or RSV/QSC treatments. In conclusion, SSP and MS lead to hypertension, but MS leads to more possible epigenetically- regulated mechanisms related to high blood pressure that could be targeted by the RSV/QSC mixture. Therefore, treatment has better effects on hypertension produced by MS.
Complex Size and Surface Charge Determine Nucleic Acid Transfer by Fusogenic Liposomes
Authors: Hoffmann Marco , Hersch Nils , Gerlach Sven , Dreissen Georg , Springer Ronald , Merkel Rudolf , Csiszár Agnes , Hoffmann Bernd
Published: March 2020

Highly efficient, biocompatible, and fast nucleic acid delivery methods are essential for biomedical applications and research. At present, two main strategies are used to this end. In non-viral transfection liposome- or polymer-based formulations are used to transfer cargo into cells via endocytosis, whereas viral carriers enable direct nucleic acid delivery into the cell cytoplasm. Here, we introduce a new generation of liposomes for nucleic acid delivery, which immediately fuse with the cellular plasma membrane upon contact to transfer the functional nucleic acid directly into the cell cytoplasm. For maximum fusion efficiency combined with high cargo transfer, nucleic acids had to be complexed and partially neutralized before incorporation into fusogenic liposomes. Among the various neutralization agents tested, small, linear, and positively charged polymers yielded the best complex properties. Systematic variation of liposomal composition and nucleic acid complexation identified surface charge as well as particle size as essential parameters for cargo-liposome interaction and subsequent fusion induction. Optimized protocols were tested for the efficient transfer of different kinds of nucleic acids like plasmid DNA, messenger RNA, and short-interfering RNA into various mammalian cells in culture and into primary tissues.
Vesicles Shed by Pathological Murine Adipocytes Spread Pathology: Characterization and Functional Role of Insulin Resistant/Hypertrophied Adiposomes
Authors: Camino Tamara , Lago-Baameiro Nerea , Bravo Susana , Sueiro Aurelio , Couto Iván , Santos Fernando , Baltar Javier , Casanueva Felipe , Pardo María
Published: March 2020

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have recently emerged as a relevant way of cell to cell communication, and its analysis has become an indirect approach to assess the cell/tissue of origin status. However, the knowledge about their nature and role on metabolic diseases is still very scarce. We have established an insulin resistant (IR) and two lipid (palmitic/oleic) hypertrophied adipocyte cell models to isolate EVs to perform a protein cargo qualitative and quantitative Sequential Window Acquisition of All Theoretical Mass Spectra (SWATH) analysis by mass spectrometry. Our results show a high proportion of obesity and IR-related proteins in pathological EVs; thus, we propose a panel of potential obese adipose tissue EV-biomarkers. Among those, lipid hypertrophied vesicles are characterized by ceruloplasmin, mimecan, and perilipin 1 adipokines, and those from the IR by the striking presence of the adiposity and IR related transforming growth factor-beta-induced protein ig-h3 (TFGBI). Interestingly, functional assays show that IR and hypertrophied adipocytes induce differentiation/hypertrophy and IR in healthy adipocytes through secreted EVs. Finally, we demonstrate that lipid atrophied adipocytes shed EVs promote macrophage inflammation by stimulating IL-6 and TNFα expression. Thus, we conclude that pathological adipocytes release vesicles containing representative protein cargo of the cell of origin that are able to induce metabolic alterations on healthy cells probably exacerbating the disease once established.
A Syllable-Based Technique for Uyghur Text Compression
Authors: Abliz Wayit , Wu Hao , Maimaiti Maihemuti , Wushouer Jiamila , Abiderexiti Kahaerjiang , Yibulayin Tuergen , Wumaier Aishan
Published: March 2020

To improve utilization of text storage resources and efficiency of data transmission, we proposed two syllable-based Uyghur text compression coding schemes. First, according to the statistics of syllable coverage of the corpus text, we constructed a 12-bit and 16-bit syllable code tables and added commonly used symbols—such as punctuation marks and ASCII characters—to the code tables. To enable the coding scheme to process Uyghur texts mixed with other language symbols, we introduced a flag code in the compression process to distinguish the Unicode encodings that were not in the code table. The experiments showed that the 12-bit coding scheme had an average compression ratio of 0.3 on Uyghur text less than 4 KB in size and that the 16-bit coding scheme had an average compression ratio of 0.5 on text less than 2 KB in size. Our compression schemes outperformed GZip, BZip2, and the LZW algorithm on short text and could be effectively applied to the compression of Uyghur short text for storage and applications.
Evaluation of the Field Efficacy of Heterorhabditis Bacteriophora Poinar (Rhabditida: Heterorhabditidae) and Synthetic Insecticides for the Control of Western Corn Rootworm Larvae
Authors: Modic Špela , Žigon Primož , Kolmanič Aleš , Trdan Stanislav , Razinger Jaka
Published: March 2020

The western corn rootworm (WCR), Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae), is an important insect pest of maize in North America and Central and Eastern Europe. In Central Europe, the larvae emerge in May and its three instars feed intensively on maize roots in June, causing plant lodging that leads to a loss of economic yield. A three-year field experiment (2016–2018) was conducted to compare the effectiveness i) of soil-applied granular insecticide based on the active ingredient tefluthrin, ii) of maize seeds dressed with thiacloprid, and iii) entomopathogenic nematodes Heterorhabditis bacteriophora Poinar (Rhabditida: Heterorhabditidae, product Dianem) against WCR larvae. An additional treatment with alcohol ethoxylate (i.e., soil conditioner) mixed with entomopathogenic nematodes was performed in 2017 and 2018 to check for any increase of entomopathogenic nematodes’ effectiveness. Field tests were carried out in two fields infested naturally with a WCR pest population, one in Bučečovci (Eastern Slovenia) and the other in Šmartno pri Cerkljah (northern Slovenia), exhibiting dissimilar pedo-climatic conditions and soil pest densities. The treatments were performed in five replicates per experiment in each year. The efficacy of the treatments was very similar at both locations, despite the approximately five-fold lower WCR soil pest densities in northern than in eastern Slovenia, as well as being constant over time. The largest number of WCR beetles was observed in the negative control, followed by that of beetles subjected to thiacloprid treatment (insignificant decrease taking into account the entire three-year dataset). Treatments with tefluthrin (44.1 ± 11.7%), H. bacteriophora (46.2 ± 7.4%), and H. bacteriophora + alcohol ethoxylate (49.2 ± 1.8%) significantly decreased the numbers of emerging beetles. Treatments of thiacloprid, H. bacteriophora, and H. bacteriophora + alcohol ethoxylate additionally led to significantly increased maize plant weights. Furthermore, entomopathogenic nematodes were able to persist in maize fields for almost five months at both experimental locations in silty and sandy loam soils. It was concluded that the control of WCR larvae in maize using the entomopathogenic nematode H. bacteriophora is as effective as a tefluthrin treatment, and could thus offer a sustainable Diabrotica v. virgifera biological control management option in Europe.
First Demonstration of a Pixelated Charge Readout for Single-Phase Liquid Argon Time Projection Chambers
Authors: Asaadi Jonathan , Auger Martin , Ereditato Antonio , Goeldi Damian , Kose Umut , Kreslo Igor , Lorca David , Luethi Matthias , Rudolf Von Rohr Christoph , Sinclair James , Stocker Francesca , Weber Michele
Published: March 2020

Traditional charge readout technologies of single-phase Liquid Argon Time projection Chambers (LArTPCs) based on projective wire readout introduce intrinsic ambiguities in event reconstruction. Combined with the slow response inherent in LArTPC detectors, reconstruction ambiguities have limited their performance, until now. Here, we present a proof of principle of a pixelated charge readout that enables the full 3D tracking capabilities of LArTPCs. We characterize the signal-to-noise ratio of charge readout chain to be about 14, and demonstrate track reconstruction on 3D space points produced by the pixel readout. This pixelated charge readout makes LArTPCs a viable option for high-multiplicity environments.
Outcomes Associated with Respiratory Failure for Patients with Cardiogenic Shock and Acute Myocardial Infarction: A Substudy of the CULPRIT-SHOCK Trial
Authors: Rubini Giménez Maria , Miller P. Elliott , Alviar Carlos L. , van Diepen Sean , Granger Christopher B. , Montalescot Gilles , Windecker Stephan , Maier Lars , Serpytis Pranas , Serpytis Rokas , Oldroyd Keith G. , Noc Marko , Fuernau Georg , Huber Kurt , Sandri Marcus , de Waha-Thiele Suzanne , Schneider Steffen , Ouarrak Taoufik , Zeymer Uwe , Desch Steffen , Thiele Holger
Published: March 2020

Background: Little is known about clinical outcomes of patients with acute myocardial infraction (AMI) complicated by cardiogenic shock (CS) requiring mechanical ventilation (MV). The aim of this study was to identify the characteristics, risk factors, and outcomes associated with the provision of MV in this specific high-risk population. Methods: Patients with CS complicating AMI and multivessel coronary artery disease from the CULPRIT-SHOCK trial were included. We explored 30 days of clinical outcomes in patients not requiring MV, those with MV on admission, and those in whom MV was initiated within the first day after admission. Results: Among 683 randomized patients included in the analysis, 17.4% received no MV, 59.7% were ventilated at admission and 22.8% received MV within or after the first day after admission. Patients requiring MV had a different risk-profile. Factors independently associated with the provision of MV on admission included higher body weight, resuscitation within 24 h before admission, elevated heart rate and evidence of triple vessel disease. Conclusions: Requiring MV in patients with CS complicating AMI is common and independently associated with mortality after adjusting for covariates. Patients with delayed MV initiation appear to be at higher risk of adverse outcomes. Further research is necessary to identify the optimal timing of MV in this high-risk population.
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement with Self-Expandable ACURATE neo as compared to Balloon-Expandable SAPIEN 3 in Patients with Severe Aortic Stenosis: Meta-analysis of Randomized and Propensity-Matched Studies. J. Clin. Med. 2020, 9, 397
Authors: Gozdek Mirosław , Zieliński Kamil , Pasierski Michał , Matteucci Matteo , Fina Dario , Jiritano Federica , Meani Paolo , Raffa Giuseppe Maria , Malvindi Pietro Giorgio , Pilato Michele , Paparella Domenico , Słomka Artur , Kubica Jacek , Jagielak Dariusz , Lorusso Roberto , Suwalski Piotr , Kowalewski Mariusz
Published: March 2020

The authors sincerely apologise for the imperfections made during the collection of the data and wish to make the following corrections to this paper [...]
Multi-Platform Characterization of Cerebrospinal Fluid and Serum Metabolome of Patients Affected by Relapsing–Remitting and Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Murgia Federica , Lorefice Lorena , Poddighe Simone , Fenu Giuseppe , Secci Maria Antonietta , Marrosu Maria Giovanna , Cocco Eleonora , Atzori Luigi
Published: March 2020

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic immunemediated disease of the central nervous system with a highly variable clinical presentation and disease progression. In this study, we investigate the metabolomics profile of patients affected by relapsing–remitting MS (RRMS)and primary progressive MS (PPMS), in order to find potential biomarkers to distinguish between the two forms. Methods: Cerebrospinal Fluid CSF and blood samples of 34 patients (RRMS n = 22, PPMS n = 12) were collected. Nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR) and mass spectrometry (coupled with a gas chromatography and liquid chromatography) were used as analytical techniques. Subsequently, a multivariate statistical analysis was performed; the resulting significant variables underwent U-Mann–Whitney test and correction for multiple comparisons. Receiver Operating Characteristic ROC curves were built and the pathways analysis was conducted. Results: The analysis of the serum and the CSF of the two classes, allowed the identification of several altered metabolites (lipids, biogenic amines, and amino acids). The pathways analysis indicated the following pathways were affected: Glutathione metabolism, nitrogen metabolism, glutamine–glutamate metabolism, arginine–ornithine metabolism, phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis etc. Conclusion: The analysis allowed the identification of a set of metabolites able to classify RRMS and PPMS patients, each of whom express different patterns of metabolites in the two biofluids.
Knowledge of Rare Respiratory Diseases among Paediatricians and Medical School Students
Authors: Requena-Fernández María Ángeles , Dasí Francisco , Castillo Silvia , Barajas-Cenobi Rafael , Navarro-García María Mercedes , Escribano Amparo
Published: March 2020

Alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) and primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) are underdiagnosed rare diseases showing a median diagnostic delay of five to ten years, which has negative effects on patient prognosis. Lack of awareness and education among healthcare professionals involved in the management of these patients have been suggested as possible causes. Our aim was to assess knowledge of these diseases among paediatricians and medical school students to determine which knowledge areas are most deficient. A survey was designed with questions testing fundamental aspects of the diagnosis and treatment of AATD and PCD. A score equal to or greater than 50% of the maximum score was set as the level necessary to ensure a good knowledge of both diseases. Our results indicate a profound lack of knowledge of rare respiratory diseases among paediatric professionals and medical students, suggesting that it is necessary to increase rare respiratory diseases training among all physicians responsible for suspecting and diagnosing them; this will allow early diagnosis and the setup of preventive measures and appropriate early-stage treatment. The first step in closing this knowledge gap could be to include relevant material in the medical syllabus.
Artificial Intelligence-Based Diagnosis of Cardiac and Related Diseases
Authors: Arsalan Muhammad , Owais Muhammad , Mahmood Tahir , Choi Jiho , Park Kang Ryoung
Published: March 2020

Automatic chest anatomy segmentation plays a key role in computer-aided disease diagnosis, such as for cardiomegaly, pleural effusion, emphysema, and pneumothorax. Among these diseases, cardiomegaly is considered a perilous disease, involving a high risk of sudden cardiac death. It can be diagnosed early by an expert medical practitioner using a chest X-Ray (CXR) analysis. The cardiothoracic ratio (CTR) and transverse cardiac diameter (TCD) are the clinical criteria used to estimate the heart size for diagnosing cardiomegaly. Manual estimation of CTR and other diseases is a time-consuming process and requires significant work by the medical expert. Cardiomegaly and related diseases can be automatically estimated by accurate anatomical semantic segmentation of CXRs using artificial intelligence. Automatic segmentation of the lungs and heart from the CXRs is considered an intensive task owing to inferior quality images and intensity variations using nonideal imaging conditions. Although there are a few deep learning-based techniques for chest anatomy segmentation, most of them only consider single class lung segmentation with deep complex architectures that require a lot of trainable parameters. To address these issues, this study presents two multiclass residual mesh-based CXR segmentation networks, X-RayNet-1 and X-RayNet-2, which are specifically designed to provide fine segmentation performance with a few trainable parameters compared to conventional deep learning schemes. The proposed methods utilize semantic segmentation to support the diagnostic procedure of related diseases. To evaluate X-RayNet-1 and X-RayNet-2, experiments were performed with a publicly available Japanese Society of Radiological Technology (JSRT) dataset for multiclass segmentation of the lungs, heart, and clavicle bones; two other publicly available datasets, Montgomery County (MC) and Shenzhen X-Ray sets (SC), were evaluated for lung segmentation. The experimental results showed that X-RayNet-1 achieved fine performance for all datasets and X-RayNet-2 achieved competitive performance with a 75% parameter reduction.
Early Post-Stroke Infections Are Associated with an Impaired Function of Neutrophil Granulocytes
Authors: van Gemmeren Till , Schuppner Ramona , Grosse Gerrit M. , Fering Jessica , Gabriel Maria M. , Huber René , Worthmann Hans , Lichtinghagen Ralf , Weissenborn Karin
Published: March 2020

To investigate whether neutrophil granulocytes’ function relates to post-stroke infections and clinical outcome after stroke, we prospectively recruited 95 patients after ischemic stroke and tested them for their microbiocidal neutrophil functions in this exploratory study. Additionally, 24 age-adjusted controls were examined regarding neutrophil function. Phagocytic capacity and the ability of the neutrophil granulocytes to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) as well as CD11b and CD16 receptor expression profile were measured by flow cytometry at days 1, 3, 7, and 90 after symptom onset. Primary outcome was the development of an infection within the first week after stroke. Results of neutrophil functional measurements were compared between patients with and without infection as well as between all stroke patients and controls. Further risk factors for the development of infections were summarized in an infection-risk score for the purpose of multivariate statistical analysis. The ROS production in neutrophils after stimulation with formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP) was reduced at baseline in patients with post-stroke infections compared to those without (p = 0.013). This difference proved to be independent from the infection-risk score in the binary logistic regression (p = 0.011). Phagocytosis and oxidative bursts were not significantly reduced in the whole stroke patient group compared to controls. Dysfunction of neutrophil granulocytes seems to play a significant role in the development of post-stroke infections. Further studies are warranted to investigate neutrophil granulocytes´ function as a potential biomarker of post-stroke infections.
High-Frequency Near-Infrared Diode Laser Irradiation Attenuates IL-1β-Induced Expression of Inflammatory Cytokines and Matrix Metalloproteinases in Human Primary Chondrocytes
Authors: Sakata Shuzo , Kunimatsu Ryo , Tsuka Yuji , Nakatani Ayaka , Hiraki Tomoka , Gunji Hidemi , Hirose Naoto , Yanoshita Makoto , Putranti Nurul Aisyah Rizky , Tanimoto Kotaro
Published: March 2020

High-frequency near-infrared diode laser provides a high-peak output, low-heat accumulation, and efficient biostimulation. Although these characteristics are considered suitable for osteoarthritis (OA) treatment, the effect of high-frequency near-infrared diode laser irradiation in in vitro or in vivo OA models has not yet been reported. Therefore, we aimed to assess the biological effects of high-frequency near-infrared diode laser irradiation on IL-1β-induced chondrocyte inflammation in an in vitro OA model. Normal Human Articular Chondrocyte-Knee (NHAC-Kn) cells were stimulated with human recombinant IL-1β and irradiated with a high-frequency near-infrared diode laser (910 nm, 4 or 8 J/cm2). The mRNA and protein expression of relevant inflammation- and cartilage destruction-related proteins was analyzed. Interleukin (IL) -1β treatment significantly increased the mRNA levels of IL-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF) -α, matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) -1, MMP-3, and MMP-13. High-frequency near-infrared diode laser irradiation significantly reduced the IL-1β-induced expression of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, MMP-1, and MMP-3. Similarly, high-frequency near-infrared diode laser irradiation decreased the IL-1β-induced increase in protein expression and secreted levels of MMP-1 and MMP-3. These results highlight the therapeutic potential of high-frequency near-infrared diode laser irradiation in OA.
The Wearable Cardioverter-Defibrillator: Experience in 153 Patients and a Long-Term Follow-Up
Authors: Rosenkaimer Stephanie L. , El-Battrawy Ibrahim , Dreher Tobias C. , Gerhards Stefan , Röger Susanne , Kuschyk Jürgen , Borggrefe Martin , Akin Ibrahim
Published: March 2020

Background: The wearable cardioverter-defibrillator (WCD) is available for patients at high risk for sudden cardiac death (SCD) when immediate implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) implantation is not possible or indicated. Patient selection remains challenging especially in primary prevention. Long-term data on these patients is still lacking. Methods: 153 patients were included in this study. They were prescribed the WCD between April 2012 and March 2019 at the University Medical Center, Mannheim, Germany. The mean follow-up period was 36.2 ± 15.6 months. Outcome data, including all-cause mortality, were analyzed by disease etiology and ICD implantation following WCD use. Results: We analyzed 56 patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy, 70 patients with non-ischemic cardiomyopathy, 16 patients with prior need for ICD/CRT-D (device for cardiac resynchronization therapy with defibrillator) explanation, 8 patients with acute myocarditis and 3 patients with congenital diseases. 58% of the patients did not need ICD/CRT-D implantation after WCD use. 4% of all patients suffered from appropriate WCD shocks. 2 of these patients (33%) experienced appropriate ICD shocks after implantation due to ventricular tachyarrhythmias. Long-term follow-up shows a good overall survival. All-cause mortality was 10%. There was no significant difference between patients with or without subsequent ICD implantation (p = 0.48). Patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy numerically showed a higher long-term mortality than patients with non-ischemic cardiomyopathy (14% vs. 6%, p = 0.13) and received significantly more ICD shocks after implantation (10% of ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM) patients versus 3% of non-ischemic cardiomyopathy (NICM) patients, p = 0.04). All patients with ventricular tachyarrhythmias during WCD use or after ICD implantation survived the follow-up period. Conclusion: Following WCD use, ICD implantation could be avoided in 58% of patients. Long-term follow-up shows good overall survival. The majority of all patients did not suffer from WCD shocks nor did receive ICD shocks after subsequent implantation. Patient selection regarding predictive conditions on long-term risk of ventricular tachyarrhythmias needs further risk stratification.
An Analytic Approach to the Cox Proportional Hazards Model for Estimating the Lifespan of Cutting Tools
Authors: Equeter Lucas , Ducobu François , Rivière-Lorphèvre Edouard , Serra Roger , Dehombreux Pierre
Published: March 2020

The machining industry raises an ever-growing concern for the significant cost of cutting tools in the production process of mechanical parts, with a focus on the replacement policy of these inserts. While an early maintenance induces lower tool return on investment, scraps and inherent costs stem from late replacement. The framework of this paper is the attempt to predict the tool inserts Mean Up Time, based solely on the value of a cutting parameter (the cutting speed in this particular turning application). More specifically, the use of the Cox Proportional Hazards (PH) Model for this prediction is demonstrated. The main contribution of this paper is the analytic approach that was conducted about the relevance on data transformation prior to using the Cox PH Model. It is shown that the logarithm of the cutting speed is analytically much more relevant in the prediction of the Mean Up Time through the Cox PH model than the raw cutting speed value. The paper also covers a numerical validation designed to show and discuss the benefits of this data transformation and the overall interest of the Cox PH model for the lifetime prognosis. This methodology, however, necessitates the knowledge of an analytical law linking the covariate to the Mean Up Time. It also shows how the necessary data for the numerical experiment was obtained through a gamma process simulating the degradation of cutting inserts. The results of this paper are expected to help manufacturers in the assessment of tool lifespan.
Low Long Terminal Repeat (LTR)-Retrotransposon Expression in Leaves of the Marine Phanerogam Posidonia Oceanica L.
Authors: Vangelisti Alberto , Mascagni Flavia , Usai Gabriele , Natali Lucia , Giordani Tommaso , Cavallini Andrea
Published: March 2020

Seagrasses as Posidonia oceanica reproduce mostly by vegetative propagation, which can reduce genetic variability within populations. Since, in clonally propagated species, insurgence of genetic variability can be determined by the activity of transposable elements, we have estimated the activity of such repeat elements by measuring their expression level in the leaves of plants from a Mediterranean site, for which Illumina complementary DNA (cDNA) sequence reads (produced from RNAs isolated by leaves of plants from deep and shallow meadows) were publicly available. Firstly, we produced a collection of retrotransposon-related sequences and then mapped Illumina cDNA reads onto these sequences. With this approach, it was evident that Posidonia retrotransposons are, in general, barely expressed; only nine elements resulted transcribed at levels comparable with those of reference genes encoding tubulins and actins. Differences in transcript abundance were observed according to the superfamily and the lineage to which the retrotransposons belonged. Only small differences were observed between retrotransposon expression levels in leaves of shallow and deep Posidonia meadow stands, whereas one TAR/Tork element resulted differentially expressed in deep plants exposed to heat. It can be concluded that, in P. oceanica, the contribution of retrotransposon activity to genetic variability is reduced, although the nine specific active elements could actually produce new structural variations.
Structural and Magnetic Properties of FePd Thin Film Synthesized by Electrodeposition Method
Authors: Barrera Gabriele , Scaglione Federico , Cialone Matteo , Celegato Federica , Coïsson Marco , Rizzi Paola , Tiberto Paola
Published: March 2020

Bimetallic nanomaterials in the form of thin film constituted by magnetic and noble elements show promising properties in different application fields such as catalysts and magnetic driven applications. In order to tailor the chemical and physical properties of these alloys to meet the applications requirements, it is of great importance scientific interest to study the interplay between properties and morphology, surface properties, microstructure, spatial confinement and magnetic features. In this manuscript, FePd thin films are prepared by electrodeposition which is a versatile and widely used technique. Compositional, morphological, surface and magnetic properties are described as a function of deposition time (i.e., film thickness). Chemical etching in hydrochloric acid was used to enhance the surface roughness and help decoupling crystalline grains with direct consequences on to the magnetic properties. X-ray diffraction, SEM/AFM images, contact angle and magnetic measurements have been carried out with the aim of providing a comprehensive characterisation of the fundamental properties of these bimetallic thin films.
Experimental Investigation of Fatigue Debonding Growth in FRP–Concrete Interface
Authors: Min Xinzhe , Zhang Jiwen , Wang Chao , Song Shoutan , Yang Dong
Published: March 2020

An externally bonded fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) plate (or sheet) is now widely used in strengthening bending members due to its outstanding properties, such as a high strength to weight ratio, easy operating, corrosion and fatigue resistance. However, the concrete member strengthened by this technology may have a problem with the adhesion between FRP and concrete. This kind of debonding failure can be broadly classified into two modes: (a) plate end debonding at or near the plate end, and (b) intermediate crack-induced debonding (intermediate crack-induced (IC) debonding) near the loading point. The IC debonding, unlike the plate end debonding, still needs a large amount of investigation work, especially for the interface under fatigue load. In this paper, ten single shear pull-out tests were carried out under a static or fatigue load. Different load ranges and load levels were considered, and the debonding growth process was carefully recorded. The experimental results indicate that the load range is one of the main parameters, which determines the debonding growth rate. Moreover, the load level can also play an important role when loaded with the same load range. Finally, a new prediction model of the fatigue debonding growth rate was proposed, and has an excellent agreement with the experimental results.
Phase-Selective Microwave Assisted Synthesis of Iron(III) Aminoterephthalate MOFs
Authors: Arenas-Vivo Ana , Avila David , Horcajada Patricia
Published: March 2020

Iron(III) aminoterephthalate Metal-Organic Frameworks (Fe-BDC-NH2 MOFs) have been demonstrated to show potential for relevant industrial and societal applications (i.e., catalysis, drug delivery, gas sorption). Nevertheless, further analysis is required in order to achieve their commercial production. In this work, a systematic synthetic strategy has been followed, carrying out microwave (MW) assisted hydro/solvothermal reactions to rapidly evaluate the influence of different reaction parameters (e.g., time, temperature, concentration, reaction media) on the formation of the benchmarked MIL-101-NH2, MIL-88B-NH2, MIL-53-NH2 and MIL-68-NH2 solids. Characterization of the obtained solids by powder X-ray diffraction, dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy allowed us to identify trends to the contribution of the evaluated parameters, such as the relevance of the concentration of precursors and the impact of the reaction medium on phase crystallization. Furthermore, we presented here for the first time the MW assisted synthesis of MIL-53-NH2 in water. In addition, pure MIL-101-NH2 was also produced in water while MIL-88-NH2 was the predominant phase obtained in ethanol. Pure phases were produced with high space-time yields, unveiling the potential of MW synthesis for MOF industrialization.
Extending Absorption Edge through the Hybrid Resonator-Based Absorber with Wideband and Near-Perfect Absorption in Visible Region
Authors: Lai Yen-Chuan , Chen Chia-Yuan , Hung Yun-Ting , Chen Chia-Yun
Published: March 2020

Metamaterial absorber with the unexpected capability for harvesting electromagnetic energy has been regarded as a potential route for various applications, including chemical/biological sensing, cloaking and photovoltaic applications. In this study, we presented the simple absorber design made with Al/SiO2/Al sandwich structures through the involvement of hybrid dual-resonators that could allow the wideband light absorption covered from 450 nm to 600 nm with average absorptivity above 95%. Examinations of excited electric field, magnetic field and total magnitude of electric field in three-dimensional space at resonances were performed to clarify the origin of resonant behaviors. In addition, an equivalent inductance–capacitance circuit model was proposed that could qualitatively explore the geometry-dependent absorption characteristics by modulating the constitutive parameters of hybrid resonators. As a result, the designed light absorber might enable to be practically applied for various optical-management and photovoltaic applications, and even offered the tunability for other desired frequency regions.
Study on the Relationship between Nano-Morphology Parameters and Properties of Bitumen during the Ageing Process
Authors: Zhang Mengyuan , Wang Xuancang , Zhang Wengang , Ding Longting
Published: March 2020

Thermo-oxidative ageing is one of the main factors affecting bitumen performance. At present, the research on bitumen ageing has entered the micro stage. The purpose of this paper was to study the relationship between nano-morphology parameters and properties of bitumen of bitumen during the ageing process. To this end, bitumen with different ageing degrees was prepared in this paper, and Atomic force microscopy samples with different cooling rates were prepared. The relationship between ageing degree of bitumen and nano-morphology parameters was analyzed. A functional relationship model between nano-morphology parameters and properties of bitumen was established. The results show that the percentage of bee-like structure area ( P bee − like ), maximum amplitude ( H max ) and roughness ( R q ) increased with the increase of ageing degree. the percentage of bee-like structure area, the maximum amplitude and the roughness increase with the increase of cooling rate. With the increase of the percentage of bee-like structure area, the maximum amplitude and the roughness, the viscosity of bitumen at 60 °C increases, penetration decreases, and softening point increases. There is a nonlinear relationship between the nano-morphology parameters and properties of bitumen.
Impact of the Deionized Water on Making High Aspect Ratio Holes in the Inconel 718 Alloy with the Use of Electrical Discharge Drilling
Authors: Machno Magdalena , Bogucki Rafał , Szkoda Maciej , Bizoń Wojciech
Published: March 2020

Nickel-based superalloys are being increasingly applied to manufacture components in the aviation industry. The materials are classified as difficult-to-machine using conventional methods. Nowadays, manufacturing techniques are needed to drill high aspect ratio holes of above 20:1 (depth-to-diameter ratio) in these materials. One of the most effective methods of making high-aspect-ratio holes is electrical discharge drilling (EDD). While drilling high aspect ratio holes, a crucial issue is the flushing of the gap area and the evacuation of the erosion products. The use of deionized water as the dielectric fluid in the EDD offers a considerable potential. This paper includes an analysis of the influence of the machining parameters (pulse time, current amplitude and discharge voltage) on the process performance (drilling speed, linear tool wear, taper angle, hole’s aspect ratio, side gap thickness), during the EDD with the use of deionized water in the Inconel 718 alloy. The obtained through holes were subjected to the extended analysis. The impact of the initial working fluid temperature and pressure on the conditions of the flow through the electrode channel was also subjected to the analysis. The deionized water properties were changed by applying an initial temperature. Based on the results of an analysis of the previous research, the EDD of the through holes was performed for a pre-set initial temperature (~313.15 °K) and initial pressure of the working fluid (8 MPa) and selected process parameters. An analysis of the results indicates increasing of hole’s aspect ratio by about 15% (above 30), decreasing the side gap thickness by about 40% and enhanced surface integrity.
Influence of Filler Loading on the Mechanical Properties of Flowable Resin Composites
Authors: Mirică Ioana-Codruţa , Furtos Gabriel , Bâldea Bogdan , Lucaciu Ondine , Ilea Aranka , Moldovan Mărioara , Câmpian Radu-Septimiu
Published: March 2020

The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation between the percent of inorganic filler by weight (wt. %) and by volume (vol. %) of 11 flowable resin composites (FRCs) and their mechanical properties. To establish the correlation, the quantity of inorganic filler was determined by combustion and shape/size analyzed by SEM images. The compressive strength (CS), flexural strength (FS), and flexural modulus (FM) were determined. The CS values were between 182.87-310.38 MPa, the FS values ranged between 59.59 and 96.95 MPa, and the FM values were between 2.34 and 6.23 GPa. The percentage of inorganic filler registered values situated between 52.25 and 69.64 wt. % and 35.35 and 53.50 vol. %. There was a very good correlation between CS, FS, and FM vs. the inorganic filler by wt. % and vol. %. (R2 = 0.8899–0.9483). The highest regression was obtained for the FM values vs. vol. %. SEM images of the tested FRCs showed hybrid inorganic filler for Filtek Supreme XT (A3) and StarFlow (A2) and a homogeneous type of inorganic filler for the other investigated materials. All of the FS values were above 50 MPa, the ISO 4049/2019 limit for FRCs.
Cyclic-Dependent Damage Evolution in Self-Healing Woven SiC/[Si-B-C] Ceramic-Matrix Composites at Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Li Longbiao , Reynaud Pascal , Fantozzi Gilbert
Published: March 2020

Cycle-dependent damage evolution in self-healing, 2.5D woven Hi-NicalonTM SiC/[Si-B-C] and 2D woven Hi-NicalonTM SiC/[SiC-B4C] ceramic-matrix composites (CMCs) at 600 and 1200 °C was investigated. The cycle-dependent damage parameters of internal friction, dissipated energy, Kachanov’s damage parameter, and broken fiber fraction were obtained to describe damage development in self-healing CMCs. The relationships between cycle-dependent damage parameters and multiple fatigue damage mechanisms were established. The experimental fatigue damage development of self-healing Hi-NicalonTM SiC/[Si-B-C] and Hi-NicalonTM SiC/[SiC-B4C] composites was predicted for different temperatures, peak stresses, and loading frequencies. The cycle-dependent damage evolution of self-healing Hi-NicalonTM SiC/[Si-B-C] and Hi-NicalonTM SiC/[SiC-B4C] composites depends on temperature, testing environment, peak stress, and loading frequency. For the Hi-NicalonTM SiC/[Si-B-C] composite, temperature is a governing parameter for the fatigue process. At an elevated temperature of 600 °C in an air atmosphere, the internal frictional parameter of Hi-NicalonTM SiC/[Si-B-C] composite decreases first and then increases with applied cycle number; however, at an elevated temperature of 1200 °C in an air atmosphere, the internal frictional parameter of Hi-NicalonTM SiC/[Si-B-C] composite decreases with applied cycle number, and the interface shear stress at 1200 °C is much lower than that at 600 °C. For Hi-NicalonTM SiC/[SiC-B4C] composite at 1200 °C, loading frequency is a governing parameter for the fatigue process. The degradation rate of interface shear stress is much higher at the loading frequency of 0.1 Hz than that at the loading frequency of 1 Hz.