bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Candida Albicans Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase Structure with Homologous Amidase Signature Family Enzymes
Authors: Min Cho-Ah , Yun Ji-Sook , Choi Eun Hwa , Hwang Ui Wook , Cho Dong-Hyung , Yoon Je-Hyun , Chang Jeong Ho
Published: September 2019

Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) is a well-characterized member of the amidase signature (AS) family of serine hydrolases. The membrane-bound FAAH protein is responsible for the catabolism of neuromodulatory fatty acid amides, including anandamide and oleamide, that regulate a wide range of mammalian behaviors, including pain perception, inflammation, sleep, and cognitive/emotional state. To date, limited crystal structures of FAAH and non-mammalian AS family proteins have been determined and used for structure-based inhibitor design. In order to provide broader structural information, the crystal structure of FAAH from the pathogenic fungus Candida albicans was determined at a resolution of 2.2 Å. A structural comparison with a brown rat Rattus norvegicus FAAH as well as with other bacterial AS family members, MAE2 and PAM, showed overall similarities but there were several discriminative regions found: the transmembrane domain and the hydrophobic cap of the brown rat FAAH were completely absent in the fungal FAAH structure. Along with these results, a phylogenetic analysis of 19 species within the AS family showed that fungal FAAHs diverged from a common ancestor before the separation of eukarya and prokarya. Taken together, this study provides insights into developing more potent inhibitors of FAAH as well as expanding our knowledge of the relationships between AS family members.
Fabrication of Nanocrystalline AlCoCrFeNi High Entropy Alloy through Shock Consolidation and Mechanical Alloying
Authors: Arab Ali , Guo Yansong , Zhou Qiang , Chen Pengwan
Published: September 2019

High entropy alloys (HEAs) are usually fabricated using arc melting which has the disadvantages of diseconomy, and the limitations in the shape and size of final products. However, recently, quite a large amount of research has been carried out to find the fabrication techniques for HEAs with better properties such as mechanical alloying and rapid solidification. In this paper, an AlCoCrFeNi high entropy alloy was successfully fabricated by the shock consolidation technique. In this method, the starting powders were mixed by mechanical alloying and then the shock wave was imposed to the compacted powders by explosion. High levels of residual stress existed in samples fabricated by the shock consolidation method. Due to this, after fabrication of the sample, heat treatment was used to eliminate the residual stress and improve the mechanical properties. The microstructure of the samples before and after heat treatment were examined by XRD, SEM and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD). The shock consolidated sample and sample with heat treatment both showed the nano-structure. After heat treatment the hardness of the sample was decreased from 715 HV to the 624 HV, however the failure strength increased, and as expected the ductility of the sample was improved after heat treatment.
Transient Stress Distribution and Failure Response of a Wellbore Drilled by a Periodic Load
Authors: Wang Xiaoyang , Chen Mian , Xia Yang , Jin Yan , Yin Shunde
Published: September 2019

The poroelastodynamic failure of a wellbore due to periodic loading during drilling is an unsolved problem. The conventional poroelastic method to calculate the stress distribution around wellbore is for static loading cases and cannot be used for short-time dynamic-loading cases which result in wave propagation in the formation. This paper formulates a poroelastodynamic model to characterize dynamic stress and pressure wave due to periodic loadings and to analyze the transient failure of the suddenly drilled wellbore in a non-hydrostatic stress field. The fully coupled poroelastodynamic model was developed based on the equations of motion, fluid flow and constitutive equations to reflect stress and pressure waves that resulted from a periodic stress perturbation at the wellbore surface. The model was analytically solved by means of field expansions of the solutions, by performing a Laplace transform as well as some special techniques. Simulation results show that the pressure and stress responses inside the formation resemble a damped oscillator where the amplitude decays as the distance to wellbore increases. Especially the potential shear failure zone around the wellbore was computed and plotted. Influences of poroelastic parameters, in-situ stress and periodic load parameters on the shear failure responses were analyzed in a detailed parametric study, and the results provide fundamental insights into wellbore stability maintenance in different reservoirs.
An Asymptotic Numerical Continuation Power Flow to Cope with Non-Smooth Issue
Authors: Huang Yan , Ju Yuntao , Zhu Zeping
Published: September 2019

Continuation power flow (CPF) calculation is very important for analyzing voltage stability of power system. CPF calculation needs to deal with non-smooth constraints such as the generator buses reactive power limits. It is still a technical challenge to determine the step size while dealing with above non-smooth constraints in CPF calculation. In this paper, an asymptotic numerical method (ANM) based on Fischer‐Burmeister (FB) function, is proposed to calculate CPF. We first used complementarity constraints to cope with non-smooth issues and introduced the FB function to formulate the complementarity constraints. Meanwhile, we introduced new variables for substitution to meet the quadratic function requirements of ANM. Compared with the conventional predictor-corrector method combining with heuristic PV-PQ (PV and PQ are used to describe bus types. PV means that the active power and voltage of the bus are known. PQ means that the active and reactive power of bus are known.) bus type switching, ANM can effectively solve the PV-PQ bus type switching problem in CPF calculation. Furthermore, to assure high efficiency, ANM can rapidly approach the voltage collapse point by self-adaptive step size adjustment and constant Jacobian matrix used for power series expansion. However, conventional CPF needs proper step set in advance and calculates Jacobian matrix for each iteration. Numerical tests on a nine-bus network and a 182-bus network validate that the proposed method is more robust than existing methods.
Histone Methylation Participates in Gene Expression Control during the Early Development of the Pacific Oyster Crassostrea gigas
Authors: Fellous Alexandre , Le Franc Lorane , Jouaux Aude , Goux Didier , Favrel Pascal , Rivière Guillaume
Published: September 2019

Histone methylation patterns are important epigenetic regulators of mammalian development, notably through stem cell identity maintenance by chromatin remodeling and transcriptional control of pluripotency genes. But, the implications of histone marks are poorly understood in distant groups outside vertebrates and ecdysozoan models. However, the development of the Pacific oyster Crassostrea gigas is under the strong epigenetic influence of DNA methylation, and Jumonji histone-demethylase orthologues are highly expressed during C. gigas early life. This suggests a physiological relevance of histone methylation regulation in oyster development, raising the question of functional conservation of this epigenetic pathway in lophotrochozoan. Quantification of histone methylation using fluorescent ELISAs during oyster early life indicated significant variations in monomethyl histone H3 lysine 4 (H3K4me), an overall decrease in H3K9 mono- and tri-methylations, and in H3K36 methylations, respectively, whereas no significant modification could be detected in H3K27 methylation. Early in vivo treatment with the JmjC-specific inhibitor Methylstat induced hypermethylation of all the examined histone H3 lysines and developmental alterations as revealed by scanning electronic microscopy. Using microarrays, we identified 376 genes that were differentially expressed under methylstat treatment, which expression patterns could discriminate between samples as indicated by principal component analysis. Furthermore, Gene Ontology revealed that these genes were related to processes potentially important for embryonic stages such as binding, cell differentiation and development. These results suggest an important physiological significance of histone methylation in the oyster embryonic and larval life, providing, to our knowledge, the first insights into epigenetic regulation by histone methylation in lophotrochozoan development.
Evaluation of Undergraduate Students’ Responsiveness to a 4-Week University-Based Animal-Assisted Stress Prevention Program
Authors: Pendry Patricia , Kuzara Stephanie , Gee Nancy R.
Published: September 2019

An increase in the prevalence of stress among college students is compromising their mental health and academic success. One approach to stress prevention that has seen a surge in implementation is the use of university-based Animal Visitation Programs (AVPs). Despite their popularity and promising causal findings, program evaluations on students’ responsiveness (e.g., enjoyment, attendance, perceptions on usefulness and behavioral change) have yet to be conducted. Using a mixed methods approach, this study reports results of a program evaluation embedded in a randomized controlled trial examining the efficacy of incorporating various levels (0%, 50% or 100%) of Human Animal Interaction (HAI) into a four-week long university-based stress prevention program resulting in three conditions: (1) Evidence-based Academic Stress Management content only (0% HAI), (2) Human Animal Interaction with therapy dogs only (100% HAI) and (3) equal combinations of Academic Stress Management and HAI (50% HAI). Responsiveness (e.g., enjoyment, usefulness, recommendation and behavioral change) was assessed quantitatively and qualitatively using self-reported survey data collected immediately following the program and again six weeks later. The results suggest that combining evidence-based content presentations with HAI was associated with higher levels of enjoyment, perceived usefulness, and likelihood of recommendation compared to presenting content presentation or HAI alone, although doing so did not result in differences in perceived behavioral change by condition. Themes of students’ perceptions on the role of HAI in shaping program enjoyment, usefulness, recommendations and behavioral change were described.
Moving Beyond the Gym: A Content Analysis of YouTube as an Information Resource for Physical Literacy
Authors: Bopp Trevor , Vadeboncoeur Joshua D. , Stellefson Michael , Weinsz Melissa
Published: September 2019

The Internet, and particularly YouTube, has been found to be and continues to develop as a resourceful educational space for health-related information. Understanding physical literacy as a lifelong health-related outcome and facilitator of an active lifestyle, we sought to assess the content, exposure, engagement, and information quality of uploaded physical literacy videos on YouTube. Two researchers collected 300 YouTube videos on physical literacy and independently coded each video’s: title, media source of upload, content topics related to physical literacy, content delivery style, and adherence to adapted Health on the Net Foundation Code of Conduct (HONcode) principles of information quality. Physical literacy videos that focused on physical activity and behaviors were the strongest predictor of high quality ratings, followed closely by videos covering affective domains (motivation, confidence, and self-esteem) of physical literacy. The content delivery method was also important, with videos utilizing presentations and testimonials containing high quality information about physical activity. Thus, providers of physical literacy and health-related online video content should be aware of and adhere to the expected quality standards. As health information expectations and ethical standards increase, the Internet, and specifically YouTube, has the potential to enhance video resources, virtual networking opportunities, as well as the sharing, dissemination, accumulation, and enrichment of physical literacy information for all.
Recreational Centres’ Facilities and Activities to Support Healthy Ageing in Singapore
Authors: Wong Elaine , Lee Andy , James Anthony , Jancey Jonine
Published: September 2019

Objective: This study examined the physical and social environment (facilities and activities) of Singapore’s Recreational Centres (RCs) and female patrons’ (>50 years) perception of the RC facilities and activities. Materials and Methods: A total of 100 RCs were audited, and 22 face-to-face interviews were undertaken. Results: Physical activity classes were the main activity offered (mean = eight classes per month), with walking (29.8%) and aerobics sessions (17.5%) being the most frequent. Nutrition classes and social activities were offered less often (mean = one class per month). The activities were well received by patrons, offering opportunities to interact while participating in physical activity and nutrition classes. However, the need for staff training, consideration of patron’s abilities and the desire to engage in alternative activities were expressed. Conclusion: Overall, RCs’ facilities and activities were well liked by the patrons but opportunities for improvements were identified. Regular reviews of facilities and activities through consultation with the RC patrons and managers are needed to ensure that the facilities and activities remain relevant and practical to the patrons. This will help to support active lifestyles and healthy eating practices among older adults residing within the community.
Emerging Screening Approaches in the Development of Nrf2–Keap1 Protein–Protein Interaction Inhibitors
Authors: Leung Chung-Hang , Zhang Jia-Tong , Yang Guan-Jun , Liu Hao , Han Quan-Bin , Ma Dik-Lung
Published: September 2019

Due to role of the Keap1–Nrf2 protein–protein interaction (PPI) in protecting cells from oxidative stress, the development of small molecule inhibitors that inhibit this interaction has arisen as a viable approach to combat maladies caused by oxidative stress, such as cancers, neurodegenerative disease and diabetes. To obtain specific and genuine Keap1–Nrf2 inhibitors, many efforts have been made towards developing new screening approaches. However, there is no inhibitor for this target entering the clinic for the treatment of human diseases. New strategies to identify novel bioactive compounds from large molecular databases and accelerate the developmental process of the clinical application of Keap1–Nrf2 protein–protein interaction inhibitors are greatly needed. In this review, we have summarized virtual screening and other methods for discovering new lead compounds against the Keap1–Nrf2 protein–protein interaction. We also discuss the advantages and limitations of different strategies, and the potential of this PPI as a drug target in disease therapy.
Effect of Salt Stress on Cytosine Methylation within GL2, An Arabidopsis thaliana Gene Involved in Root Epidermal Cell Differentiation. Absence of Inheritance in the Unstressed Progeny
Authors: Beyrne Cecilia C. , Iusem Norberto D. , González Rodrigo M.
Published: September 2019

Methylation/demethylation of cytosines is an epigenetic strategy for transcriptional regulation, allowing organisms to rapidly respond and adapt to different stimuli. In this context, and using Arabidopsis thaliana as a plant model, we explored whether an environmental stress is sufficient to trigger a change in the methylation status of Glabra-2, a master gene associated with root epidermal cell differentiation. As this gene acts mainly in the epidermis in the root, we examined the stress-driven methylation levels specifically in that tissue. We focused on the stress caused by different salt concentrations in the growth medium. When testing the effect of 20 and 75 mM NaCl, we found that there is a significant decrease in the CG methylation level of the analyzed genomic region within the epidermis. Whereas this reduction was 23% in mildly stressed plants, it turned out to be more robust (33%) in severely stressed ones. Notably, this latter epigenetic change was accompanied by an increase in the number of trichoblasts, the epidermal cell type responsible for root hair development. Analysis of an eventual inheritance of epigenetic marks showed that the non-stressed progeny (F1) of stressed plants did not inherit—in a Lamarckian fashion—the methylation changes that had been acquired by the parental individuals.
Differential Expression Profiles of Oxidative Stress Levels, 8-oxo-dG and 4-HNE, in Barrett’s Esophagus Compared to Esophageal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: O’Farrell Naoimh J. , Phelan James J. , Feighery Ronan , Doyle Brendan , Picardo Sarah L. , Ravi Narayanasamy , O’Toole Dermot , Reynolds John V. , O’Sullivan Jacintha
Published: September 2019

Barrett’s esophagus (BE), a chronic inflammatory condition, is the leading risk factor for esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC). In inflammation to cancer pathways, oxidative stress profiles have been linked to cancer progression. However, the relevance of oxidative stress profiles along the BE-disease sequence remains to be elucidated. In this study, markers of oxidative stress; DNA adducts (8-oxo-dG) and lipoperoxidation (4-HNE), and markers of proliferation (Ki67) were measured in patient biopsies representing the BE-disease sequence. Differences in expression of these markers in Barrett’s patients with cancer-progression and non-progression were examined. Proliferation was reduced in Barrett’s specialized intestinal metaplasia (SIM) compared with EAC (p < 0.035). Correcting for cell proliferation levels, a confounding factor, linked to oxidative stress profiles, SIM demonstrated increased levels of 8-oxo-dG and 4-HNE (p < 0.05) compared with EAC. Longitudinal analysis of Barrett’s patients demonstrated decreased levels of 8-oxo-dG in SIM cancer progression (p < 0.05). BE is an environment of increased oxidative stress and inflammation. Patients with progressive disease demonstrated reduced oxidative stress levels in 8-oxo-dG. Perhaps these alterations facilitate Barrett’s progression, whereas in non-progressive disease, cells follow the rules of increased oxidative stress ultimately triggers cell apoptosis, thereby preventing propagation and survival.
Altered Cell Surface N-Glycosylation of Resting and Activated T Cells in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Szabó Enikő , Hornung Ákos , Monostori Éva , Bocskai Márta , Czibula Ágnes , Kovács László
Published: September 2019

Altered cell surface glycosylation in congenital and acquired diseases has been shown to affect cell differentiation and cellular responses to external signals. Hence, it may have an important role in immune regulation; however, T cell surface glycosylation has not been studied in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a prototype of autoimmune diseases. Analysis of the glycosylation of T cells from patients suffering from SLE was performed by lectin-binding assay, flow cytometry, and quantitative real-time PCR. The results showed that resting SLE T cells presented an activated-like phenotype in terms of their glycosylation pattern. Additionally, activated SLE T cells bound significantly less galectin-1 (Gal-1), an important immunoregulatory lectin, while other lectins bound similarly to the controls. Differential lectin binding, specifically Gal-1, to SLE T cells was explained by the increased gene expression ratio of sialyltransferases and neuraminidase 1 (NEU1), particularly by elevated ST6 beta-galactosamide alpha-2,6-sialyltranferase 1 (ST6GAL1)/NEU1 and ST3 beta-galactoside alpha-2,3-sialyltransferase 6 (ST3GAL6)/NEU1 ratios. These findings indicated an increased terminal sialylation. Indeed, neuraminidase treatment of cells resulted in the increase of Gal-1 binding. Altered T cell surface glycosylation may predispose the cells to resistance to the immunoregulatory effects of Gal-1, and may thus contribute to the pathomechanism of SLE.
Migration of Small Ribosomal Subunits on the 5′ Untranslated Regions of Capped Messenger RNA
Authors: Shirokikh Nikolay E. , Dutikova Yulia S. , Staroverova Maria A. , Hannan Ross D. , Preiss Thomas
Published: September 2019

Several control mechanisms of eukaryotic gene expression target the initiation step of mRNA translation. The canonical translation initiation pathway begins with cap-dependent attachment of the small ribosomal subunit (SSU) to the messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) followed by an energy-dependent, sequential ‘scanning’ of the 5′ untranslated regions (UTRs). Scanning through the 5′UTR requires the adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-dependent RNA helicase eukaryotic initiation factor (eIF) 4A and its efficiency contributes to the specific rate of protein synthesis. Thus, understanding the molecular details of the scanning mechanism remains a priority task for the field. Here, we studied the effects of inhibiting ATP-dependent translation and eIF4A in cell-free translation and reconstituted initiation reactions programmed with capped mRNAs featuring different 5′UTRs. An aptamer that blocks eIF4A in an inactive state away from mRNA inhibited translation of capped mRNA with the moderately structured β-globin sequences in the 5′UTR but not that of an mRNA with a poly(A) sequence as the 5′UTR. By contrast, the nonhydrolysable ATP analogue β,γ-imidoadenosine 5′-triphosphate (AMP-PNP) inhibited translation irrespective of the 5′UTR sequence, suggesting that complexes that contain ATP-binding proteins in their ATP-bound form can obstruct and/or actively block progression of ribosome recruitment and/or scanning on mRNA. Further, using primer extension inhibition to locate SSUs on mRNA (‘toeprinting’), we identify an SSU complex which inhibits primer extension approximately eight nucleotides upstream from the usual toeprinting stop generated by SSUs positioned over the start codon. This ‘−8 nt toeprint’ was seen with mRNA 5′UTRs of different length, sequence and structure potential. Importantly, the ‘−8 nt toeprint’ was strongly stimulated by the presence of the cap on the mRNA, as well as the presence of eIFs 4F, 4A/4B and ATP, implying active scanning. We assembled cell-free translation reactions with capped mRNA featuring an extended 5′UTR and used cycloheximide to arrest elongating ribosomes at the start codon. Impeding scanning through the 5′UTR in this system with elevated magnesium and AMP-PNP (similar to the toeprinting conditions), we visualised assemblies consisting of several SSUs together with one full ribosome by electron microscopy, suggesting direct detection of scanning intermediates. Collectively, our data provide additional biochemical, molecular and physical evidence to underpin the scanning model of translation initiation in eukaryotes.
Chromosome Translocations as a Driver of Diversification in Mole Voles Ellobius (Rodentia, Mammalia)
Authors: Romanenko Svetlana A. , Lyapunova Elena A. , Saidov Abdusattor S. , O’Brien Patricia C.M. , Serdyukova Natalia A. , Ferguson-Smith Malcolm A. , Graphodatsky Alexander S. , Bakloushinskaya Irina
Published: September 2019

The involvement of chromosome changes in the initial steps of speciation is controversial. Here we examine diversification trends within the mole voles Ellobius, a group of subterranean rodents. The first description of their chromosome variability was published almost 40 years ago. Studying the G-band structure of chromosomes in numerous individuals revealed subsequent homologous, step-by-step, Robertsonian translocations, which changed diploid numbers from 54 to 30. Here we used a molecular cytogenetic strategy which demonstrates that chromosomal translocations are not always homologous; consequently, karyotypes with the same diploid number can carry different combinations of metacentrics. We further showed that at least three chromosomal forms with 2n = 34 and distinct metacentrics inhabit the Pamir-Alay mountains. Each of these forms independently hybridized with E. tancrei, 2n = 54, forming separate hybrid zones. The chromosomal variations correlate slightly with geographic barriers. Additionally, we confirmed that the emergence of partial or monobrachial homology appeared to be a strong barrier for hybridization in nature, in contradistinction to experiments which we reported earlier. We discuss the possibility of whole arm reciprocal translocations for mole voles. Our findings suggest that chromosomal translocations lead to diversification and speciation.
Jasmonic Acid Methyl Ester Induces Xylogenesis and Modulates Auxin-Induced Xylary Cell Identity with NO Involvement
Authors: Della Rovere Federica , Fattorini Laura , Ronzan Marilena , Falasca Giuseppina , Altamura Maria Maddalena , Betti Camilla
Published: September 2019

In Arabidopsis basal hypocotyls of dark-grown seedlings, xylary cells may form from the pericycle as an alternative to adventitious roots. Several hormones may induce xylogenesis, as Jasmonic acid (JA), as well as indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) auxins, which also affect xylary identity. Studies with the ethylene (ET)-perception mutant ein3eil1 and the ET-precursor 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC), also demonstrate ET involvement in IBA-induced ectopic metaxylem. Moreover, nitric oxide (NO), produced after IBA/IAA-treatments, may affect JA signalling and interact positively/negatively with ET. To date, NO-involvement in ET/JA-mediated xylogenesis has never been investigated. To study this, and unravel JA-effects on xylary identity, xylogenesis was investigated in hypocotyls of seedlings treated with JA methyl-ester (JAMe) with/without ACC, IBA, IAA. Wild-type (wt) and ein3eil1 responses to hormonal treatments were compared, and the NO signal was quantified and its role evaluated by using NO-donors/scavengers. Ectopic-protoxylem increased in the wt only after treatment with JAMe(10 μM), whereas in ein3eil1 with any JAMe concentration. NO was detected in cells leading to either xylogenesis or adventitious rooting, and increased after treatment with JAMe(10 μM) combined or not with IBA(10 μM). Xylary identity changed when JAMe was applied with each auxin. Altogether, the results show that xylogenesis is induced by JA and NO positively regulates this process. In addition, NO also negatively interacts with ET-signalling and modulates auxin-induced xylary identity.
Mechanisms of Stress-Induced Spermatogenesis Impairment in Male Rats Following Unpredictable Chronic Mild Stress (uCMS)
Authors: Zou Peng , Wang Xiaogang , Yang Wang , Liu Chang , Chen Qing , Yang Huan , Zhou Niya , Zeng Yingfei , Chen Hongqiang , Zhang Guowei , Liu Jinyi , Cao Jia , Ao Lin , Sun Lei
Published: September 2019

The negative association between psychological stress and male fertility has been known for many years. This study was aimed at (i) identifying spermatogenesis impairment induced by psychological stress in rats and (ii) exploring the role of glucocorticoid receptor (GR) signaling in these adverse effects (if they exist). Male Sprague Dawley rats were exposed to a six-week period of unpredictable chronic mild stress (uCMS) along with cotreatment of GR antagonist RU486 (1 mg/kg/day). Testicular damage was assessed by testicular pathological evaluation, epididymal sperm concentration, serum testosterone levels, testicular apoptotic cell measurements, and cell cycle progression analyses. Rats in the uCMS group had decreased levels of serum testosterone and decreased epididymal sperm concentration. The uCMS-treated rats also had decreased numbers of spermatids and increased levels of apoptotic seminiferous tubules; additionally, cell cycle progression of spermatogonia was arrested at the G0/G1 phase. Furthermore, uCMS exposure caused an increase in serum corticosterone level and activated GR signaling in the testes including upregulated GR expression. RU486 treatment suppressed GR signaling and alleviated the damaging effects of stress, resulting in an increased epididymal sperm concentration. Overall, this work demonstrated for the first time that the activation of GR signaling mediates stress-induced spermatogenesis impairment and that this outcome is related to cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in germ cells.
Differentially Expressed microRNAs in MIA PaCa-2 and PANC-1 Pancreas Ductal Adenocarcinoma Cell Lines are Involved in Cancer Stem Cell Regulation
Authors: Shen Ye , Pu Kefeng , Zheng Kexiao , Ma Xiaochuan , Qin Jingyi , Jiang Li , Li Jiong
Published: September 2019

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most lethal malignancies, and thus better understanding of its molecular pathology is crucial for us to devise more effective treatment of this deadly disease. As cancer cell line remains a convenient starting point for discovery and proof-of-concept studies, here we report the miRNA expression characteristics of two cell lines, MIA PaCa-2 and PANC-1, and discovered three miRNAs (miR-7-5p, let-7d, and miR-135b-5p) that are involved in cancer stem cells (CSCs) suppression. After transfection of each miRNA’s mimic into PANC-1 cells which exhibits higher stemness feature than MIA-PaCa-2 cells, partial reduction of CSC surface markers and inhibition of tumor sphere formation were observed. These results enlighten us to consider miRNAs as potential therapeutic agents for pancreatic cancer patients via specific and effective inhibition of CSCs.
Nutritional Therapy Modulates Intestinal Microbiota and Reduces Serum Levels of Total and Free Indoxyl Sulfate and P-Cresyl Sulfate in Chronic Kidney Disease (Medika Study)
Authors: Di Iorio Biagio Raffaele , Rocchetti Maria Teresa , De Angelis Maria , Cosola Carmela , Marzocco Stefania , Di Micco Lucia , di Bari Ighli , Accetturo Matteo , Vacca Mirco , Gobbetti Marco , Di Iorio Mattia , Bellasi Antonio , Gesualdo Loreto
Published: September 2019

In chronic kidney disease (CKD), the gut-microbiota metabolites indoxyl sulfate (IS) and p-cresyl sulfate (PCS) progressively accumulate due to their high albumin-binding capacity, leading to clinical complications. In a prospective crossover controlled trial, 60 patients with CKD grades 3B–4 (GFR = 21.6 ± 13.2 mL/min) were randomly assigned to two dietary regimens: (i) 3 months of free diet (FD) (FD is the diet usually used by the patient before being enrolled in the Medika study), 6 months of very low protein diet (VLPD), 3 months of FD and 6 months of Mediterranean diet (MD); (ii) 3 months of FD, 6 months of MD, 3 months of FD, and 6 months of VLPD. VLPD reduced inflammatory Proteobacteria and increased Actinobacteria phyla. MD and VLPD increased some butyrate-forming species of Lachnospiraceae, Ruminococcaceae, Prevotellaceae, Bifidobacteriaceae, and decrease the pathobionts Enterobacteriaceae. The increased level of potential anti-inflammatory Blautia and Faecalibacterium, as well as butyrate-forming Coprococcus and Roseburia species in VLPD was positively associated with dietary intakes and it was negatively correlated with IS and PCS. Compared to FD and MD, VLPD showed a lower amount of some Lactobacillus, Akkermansia, Streptococcus, and Escherichia species. MD and VLPD reduced both the total and free serum IS (MD −36%, −40% and VLPD −69%, −73%, respectively) and PCS (MD −38%, −44% and VLPD −58%, −71%, respectively) compared to FD. VLPD reduced serum D-lactate compared to MD and FD. MD and, to a greater extent, VLPD are effective in the beneficial modulation of gut microbiota, reducing IS and PCS serum levels, and restoring intestinal permeability in CKD patients.
Environmental Risk Factors of Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Tsai Hui-Jen , Chang Jeffrey S.
Published: September 2019

Despite the advancement in medical knowledge that has improved the survival rate of many cancers, the survival rate of pancreatic cancer has remained dismal with a five-year survival rate of only 9%. The poor survival of pancreatic cancer emphasizes the urgent need to identify the causes or the risk factors of pancreatic cancer in order to establish effective preventive strategies. This review summarizes the current evidence regarding the environmental (non-genetic, including lifestyle, and clinical factors) risk factors of pancreatic cancer. Based on the current evidence, the established risk factors of pancreatic cancer are cigarette smoking, chronic diabetes, and obesity. Other strong risk factors include low consumption of fruits and vegetables, excess consumption of alcohol, poor oral hygiene, and the lack of allergy history. In the future, more studies are needed to identify additional risk factors of pancreatic cancer, especially the modifiable risk factors that could be included in a public health campaign to educate the public in order to reduce the incidence of pancreatic cancer.
The Risk for Glucose Intolerance after Gestational Diabetes Mellitus since the Introduction of the IADPSG Criteria: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Benhalima Katrien , Lens Karen , Bosteels Jan , Chantal Mathieu
Published: September 2019

The aim of the study was to assess the postpartum risk for glucose intolerance since the introduction of the ‘International Association of Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Groups’ (IADPSG) criteria for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Studies published since 2010 were included, which evaluated the risk for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), and cardiovascular (CV) events in women with previous GDM compared to normal glucose tolerant women. We included forty-three studies, evaluating 4,923,571 pregnant women of which 5.8% (284,312) had a history of GDM. Five studies used IADPSG criteria (n = 6174 women, 1314 with GDM). The overall pooled relative risk (RR) for postpartum T2DM was 7.42 (95% CI: 5.99–9.19) and the RR for postpartum T2DM with IADPSG criteria was 6.45 (95% CI: 4.74–8.77) compared to the RR of 9.08 (95% CI: 6.96–11.85; p = 0.17) for postpartum T2DM based on other diagnostic criteria. The RR for postpartum IGT was 2.45 (95% CI: 1.92–3.13), independent of the criteria used. None of the available studies with IADPSG criteria evaluated the risk for CV events. Women with a history of GDM based on the IADPSG criteria have a similarly increased risk for postpartum glucose intolerance compared to GDM based on other diagnostic criteria. More studies with GDM based on the IADPSG criteria are needed to increase the quality of evidence concerning the long-term metabolic risk.
Fiscal Decentralisation and Economic Growth across Provinces: New Evidence from Vietnam Using a Novel Measurement and Approach
Authors: Nguyen Phuong Duy , Vo Duc Hong , Ho Chi Minh , Vo Anh The
Published: September 2019

Fiscal decentralisation has attracted great attention from governments, practitioners, and international institutions with the aims of enhancing economic growth in the last 5 decades. However, satisfactorily measuring the degree of fiscal decentralisation across countries has appeared to be problematic. In addition, the link between fiscal decentralisation and economic growth across provinces has largely been ignored, in particular for emerging markets such as Vietnam. As such, this study is conducted to determine the extent of fiscal decentralisation and to assess its impact on economic growth based on data from all 63 provinces of Vietnam in the period after the 2008 financial crisis. Instead of using traditional measures of fiscal decentralisation, the study uses the Fiscal Decentralisation Index (FDI) together with the two most important and inseparable components of the index, those being (i) the Fiscal Importance (FI) and (ii) the Fiscal Autonomy (FA). The Difference Generalised Method of Moments (DGMM) is utilised to correct for the potential problem of endogeneity between fiscal decentralisation and economic growth. Results show that the two indicators (FI and FDI) have a negative impact while FA has a positive impact on economic growth across provinces. On the ground of these empirical findings, implications for specific policies have emerged for Vietnam and other emerging markets on the extent of fiscal decentralisation, and its major determinants, which positively support economic growth in the future.
CO2 Emissions, Energy Consumption, and Economic Growth: New Evidence in the ASEAN Countries
Authors: Vo Anh , Vo Duc , Le Quan
Published: September 2019

The members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have made several attempts to adopt renewable energy targets given the economic, energy-related, environmental challenges faced by the governments, policy makers, and stakeholders. However, previous studies have focused limited attention on the role of renewable energy when testing the dynamic link between CO2 emissions, energy consumption and renewable energy consumption. As such, this study is conducted to test a common hypothesis regarding a long-run environmental Kuznets curve (EKC). The paper also investigates the causal link between carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, energy consumption, renewable energy, population growth, and economic growth for countries in the region. Using various time-series econometrics approaches, our analysis covers five ASEAN members (including Indonesia, Myanmar, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Thailand) for the 1971–2014 period where required data are available. Our results reveal no long-run relationship among the variables of interest in the Philippines and Thailand, but a relationship does exist in Indonesia, Myanmar, and Malaysia. The EKC hypothesis is observed in Myanmar but not in Indonesia and Malaysia. Also, Granger causality among these important variables varies considerably across the selected countries. No Granger causality among carbon emissions, energy consumption, and renewable energy consumption is reported in Malaysia, the Philippines, and Thailand. Indonesia experiences a unidirectional causal effect from economic growth to renewable energy consumption in both short and long run and from economic growth to CO2 emissions and energy consumption. Interestingly, only Myanmar has a unidirectional effect from GDP growth, energy consumption, and population to the adoption of renewable energy. Policy implications have emerged based on the findings achieved from this study for each country in the ASEAN region.
The Impact of Urbanization on Income Inequality: A Study in Vietnam
Authors: Ha Nguyen Minh , Le Nguyen Dang , Trung-Kien Pham
Published: September 2019

This paper explores the impact of urbanization on income inequality in Vietnam, using the regression estimation method with panel data including Driscoll and Kraay, and Pooled Mean Group. The research data cover 63 provinces in Vietnam from 2006 to 2016. The results show that in the long term, urbanization has an impact on reducing income inequality. In the short term, urbanization has a negligible impact on income inequality. The hypothesis of an inverted-U-shaped relationship between urbanization and income inequality is confirmed. The high school enrollment rate and the proportion of agriculture have an effect on reducing income inequality.
Experimental and Finite Element Research on the Failure Mechanism of C/C Composite Joint Structures under Out-of-Plane Loading
Authors: Zhang Yanfeng , Zhou Zhengong , Tan Zhiyong
Published: September 2019

The loading and the failure mode of metal hexagon bolt joints and metal counter-sunk bolt joints of C/C composites were investigated. The joints were tested for out-of-plane loading at two temperatures (600 °C and 800 °C). The failure morphology of a lap plate was investigated, and the main failure modes were determined. The typical load–displacement curve was characterized and the test was simulated using ABAQUS non-linear finite element software. Furthermore, progressive damage was induced, and comparison of the finite element simulation with the experimental data revealed that the failures mainly occurred in the lower lap plate and were dominated by cracking and delamination of the matrix, accompanied by the pull-out of a small number of piercing fibers. Finally, the influences of the temperature, nut radius, and fixture geometry on the critical load were determined via simulation.
The Effect of Changing Fly Ash Content on the Modulus of Compression of Stabilized Soil
Authors: Yang Shuai , Liu Wenbai
Published: September 2019

Adding a curing agent can enhance the mechanical properties of soil including its compressive strength. However, few studies have quantitatively analyzed the compressive strength and microstructure of soils to explore the impact of changes in the microstructure on compressive strength. In addition, the cost of curing agents is too high to be widely used. In this study, curing agents with different proportions of fly ash were added to dredger fill to reduce the amount of curing agents needed. The quantitative analysis of the relationships between the modulus of compression Es and microstructures of stabilized soil samples is presented. The modulus of compression Es was gauged from compression tests. Microscopic images acquired using a scanning electron microscope were processed using the Image-Pro Plus (IPP) image processing software. The microscopic parameters, obtained using IPP, included the average equivalent particle size Dp, the average equivalent aperture size Db, and the plane pore ratio e. This research demonstrated that the fly ash added to the curing agent achieved the same effect as the curing agent, and the amount of curing agent required was reduced. Therefore, the modulus of compression for stabilized soil can be improved. This is due to the hydration products (i.e., calcium silicate hydrate, calcium hydroxide, and ettringite), produced by the hydration reaction, and which adhere to the surface of the particles and fill the spaces among them. Thus, the change in the pore structure and the compactness of the particles helps to increase the modulus of compression. In addition, there was a good linear relationship between the modulus of compression and the microscopic parameters. Using the mathematical relationships between the macroscopic and microscopic parameters, correlations can be built for macro–microscopic research.
Correction: Mierzejewska, Z.A. Effect of Laser Energy Density, Internal Porosity and Heat Treatment on Mechanical Behavior of Biomedical Ti6Al4V Alloy Obtained with DMLS Technology. Materials 2019, 12, 2331
Authors: Mierzejewska Żaneta Anna
Published: September 2019

The authors wish to make the following correction to this paper [...]
Bioactive Glass and Silicate-Based Ceramic Coatings on Metallic Implants: Open Challenge or Outdated Topic?
Authors: Brunello Giulia , Elsayed Hamada , Biasetto Lisa
Published: September 2019

The overall success and long-term life of the medical implants are decisively based on the convenient osseointegration at the hosting tissue-implant interface. Therefore, various surface modifications and different coating approaches have been utilized to the implants to enhance the bone formation and speed up the interaction with the surrounding hosting tissues, thereby enabling the successful fixation of implants. In this review, we will briefly present the main metallic implants and discuss their biocompatibility and osseointegration ability depending on their chemical and mechanical properties. In addition, as the main goal of this review, we explore the main properties of bioactive glasses and silica-based ceramics that are used as coating materials for both orthopedic and dental implants. The current review provides an overview of these bioactive coatings, with a particular emphasis on deposition methods, coating adhesion to the substrates and apatite formation ability tested by immersion in Simulated Body Fluid (SBF). In vitro and in vivo performances in terms of biocompatibility, biodegradability and improved osseointegration are examined as well.
Application of Isothermal and Isoperibolic Calorimetry to Assess the Effect of Zinc on Hydration of Cement Blended with Slag
Authors: Šiler Pavel , Kolářová Iva , Novotný Radoslav , Másilko Jiří , Bednárek Jan , Janča Martin , Koplík Jan , Hajzler Jan , Matějka Lukáš , Marko Michal , Pokorný Přemysl , Opravil Tomáš , Šoukal František
Published: September 2019

This work deals with the influence of zinc on cement hydration. The amount of zinc in cement has increased over recent years. This is mainly due to the utilization of solid waste and tires, which are widely used as a fuel in a rotary kiln. Zinc can also be introduced to cement through such secondary raw materials as slag, due to increased recycling of galvanized materials. The aim of this work was to determine the effect of zinc on the hydration of Portland cement, blended with ground blast furnace slag (GBFS). This effect was studied by isothermal and isoperibolic calorimetry. Both calorimetry methods are suitable for measurements during the first days of hydration. Isoperibolic calorimetry monitors the hydration process in real-life conditions, while isothermal calorimetry does so at a defined chosen temperature. Zinc was added to the cement in the form of two soluble salts, namely Zn(NO3)2, ZnCl2, and a poorly soluble compound, ZnO. The concentration of added zinc was chosen to be 0.05, 0.1, 0.5, and 1mass percent. The amount of GBFS replacement was 15% of cement dosage. The newly formed hydration products were identified by X-ray diffraction method (XRD).
Porous Titanium Surfaces to Control Bacteria Growth: Mechanical Properties and Sulfonated Polyetheretherketone Coatings as Antibiofouling Approaches
Authors: Beltrán Ana M. , Civantos Ana , Dominguez-Trujillo Cristina , Moriche Rocío , Rodríguez-Ortiz José A. , García-Moreno Francisco , Webster Thomas J. , Kamm Paul H. , Restrepo Andrea Mesa , Torres Yadir
Published: September 2019

Here, titanium porous substrates were fabricated by a space holder technique. The relationship between microstructural characteristics (pore equivalent diameter, mean free-path between pores, roughness and contact surface), mechanical properties (Young’s modulus, yield strength and dynamic micro-hardness) and bacterial behavior are discussed. The bacterial strains evaluated are often found on dental implants: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The colony-forming units increased with the size of the spacer for both types of studied strains. An antibiofouling synthetic coating based on a sulfonated polyetheretherketone polymer revealed an effective chemical surface modification for inhibiting MRSA adhesion and growth. These findings collectively suggest that porous titanium implants designed with a pore size of 100–200 µm can be considered most suitable, assuring the best biomechanical and bifunctional anti-bacterial properties.
3D Printing of Metallic Microstructured Mould Using Selective Laser Melting for Injection Moulding of Plastic Microfluidic Devices
Authors: Zhang Nan , Liu Jinghang , Zhang Honggang , Kent Nigel J. , Diamond Dermot , D. Gilchrist Michael
Published: September 2019

A new method, a 3D printing technique, in particular, selective laser melting (SLM), has been used to fabricate moulds for the injection moulding of thermoplastic microfluidic chips that are suitable for prototyping and early stage scale-up. The micro metallic patterns are printed on to a pre-finished substrate to form a microstructured mould. The dimensional accuracy, surface morphology, bonding strength between the printed patterns and substrate, as well as the microstructure of micro features were all characterized. A microfluidic mould was successfully printed and used directly for injection moulding of cyclic olefin copolymer (COC) microfluidic chips, which were used subsequently to successfully monitor nitrite concentrations in environmental water. The characterization indicated that this new process can be used for fast fabrication of mould tools for injection moulding/hot embossing microfluidic devices. It is faster, more flexible and less expensive than conventional micro-machining processes, although the accuracy and finish are still needed to improve though process optimization and hybrid SLM and machining processes.