bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bone Metabolism Parameters in Hemodialysis Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease and in Patients After Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Marchelek-Myśliwiec M. , Dziedziejko V. , Nowosiad-Magda M. , Wiśniewska M. , Safranow K. , Pawlik A. , Domański L. , Dołęgowska K. , Dołęgowska B. , Stępniewska J. , Ciechanowski K.
Published: December 2019

Chronic kidney disease adversely affects the structure and metabolism of bone tissue, which may be a result of disturbed biochemical processes in adipose tissue. Renal replacement therapy is a life-saving therapy but it does not restore all metabolic functions and sometimes even escalates some disturbances. The study included 126 subjects: 47 hemodialysis patients (HD), 56 patients after renal transplantation (Tx) and 23 healthy controls (K). Bone density at the femoral neck (FN) and lumbar spine (LS), as well as body composition (adipose tissue content and lean body mass) were measured in each patient using the DXA method. In addition, serum concentrations of glucose, calcium, phosphorus, parathormone, FGF23, Klotho, osteocalcin, leptin, adiponectin and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 were measured. We observed significantly higher concentrations of leptin, FGF23 and Klotho proteins in the HD patients (77.2±48.1 ng/ml, 54.7±12.4 pg/ml, 420.6±303.8 ng/ml, respectively) and the Tx group (33.2±26.5 ng/ml; 179.8±383.9 pg/ml; 585.4±565.7, respectively) compared to the control group (24.4±24.6 ng/ml, 43.3±37.3 pg/ml, 280.5±376.0 ng/ml). Significantly lower bone density at FN was observed in the HD and Tx patients in comparison to the controls and in the HD patients compared to the Tx group. There were no significant differences in body mass composition between the studied groups. The results of this study indicate that both hemodialysis and transplantation are associated with increased serum concentrations of leptin, FGF23 and Klotho proteins, as well as lower bone density at femoral neck.
Synchronization of Autonomic and Cerebral Rhythms During Listening to Music: Effects of Tempo and Cognition of Songs
Authors: Mollakazemi M.J. , Biswal D. , Elayi S.C. , Thyagarajan S. , Evans J. , Patwardhan A.
Published: December 2019

A large number of studies document cardiorespiratory changes occurring while listening to music. Less is known, however, about the interaction between cardiorespiratory and cerebral electrical rhythms during listening to music and how cognition and acoustic structural aspects of songs influence that interaction. We focused on tempo as a structural feature of songs, since tempo is a major determinant of physiological responses to music, and on familiarity and randomization of phase of local spectra of known and unknown songs for cognition. Our results indicated an overall increase in the degree of synchronization among cardiorespiratory variables (Heart rate (RR), systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP, DBP), respiration) and between cardiorespiratory and cerebral (EEG) oscillations during all songs. We also observed a marked decrease in respiratory frequency bandwidth and increase in respiratory rate while listening to songs, and slow song produced the most periodic breathing. Compared with slow tempo, during fast song, DBP and cerebral oscillations became less synchronized with high frequency components of RR suggesting that the processes causing the previously known reduction in vagal activity with increase in tempo also may have caused the decrease in these synchronizations. Cognition of songs affected the SBP coherencies the most. DBP was synchronized with respiration more than all other measured variables in response to auditory stimuli. Results indicate an overall increase in the degree of synchronization among a variety of cerebral electrical and autonomically driven cardiovascular rhythms. It is possible that this significant increase in synchronizations underlies the widely reported pleasurable and palliative effects of listening to music.
FAST-GROWING MALIGNANT MELANOMA
Authors: Sandru Florica , Dumitrascu Mihai Cristian , Petca Aida , Miulescu Raluca Gabriela , Stanescu Ana Maria Alexandra , Andronic Octavian , Păduraru Dan Nicolae , Popa Adelina
Published: December 2019

Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer, its incidence increases with age. Melanomas are malignant tumors that are derived from melanocytes. The most common site of involvement is represented by the skin. Melanomas are considered a major cause of premature death from cancer. Melanomas produce pigment in varying amounts and may elicit an immune response that will be reflected in the clinical appearance. Some melanomas may lack pigment. A small but significant number of melanomas are undiagnosable clinically. A history of change may be the only clue to the correct diagnosis.   We present the case of a 45-year-old woman, presented to our Dermatology Department with a rapidly changing nevus that bled with minimal trauma, located on her back.
IS THERE A LINK BETWEEN ABDOMINAL SURGERY AND OCULAR PRESSURE?
Authors: Chis Roxana Gabriela , Sirbu Adriana Elena , Andronic O. , Oprescu S.M.
Published: December 2019

The mechanisms of variation of intraocular pressure (IOP) during abdominal surgical interventions it is not completely clear and its result on the recovering patient may vary from benign alterations to disabilities. This review aims to identify the most important triggers and its impact of IOP along with individual risk factors during the perioperative period of abdominal surgeries. International literature is providing limited data on this topic. We reviewed 9 studies using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science as database. From the multitude of effects and implications that abdominal surgery has onto the physiology of eyeball, the highest impact was linked to the positioning of the patient, induction of anesthesia, perianesthetic events such as intubation and extubation, type of anesthesia and anesthetic used, pneumoperitoneum induced in laparoscopic surgeries and its contribution to the alterations of ocular parameters which are increasing the risk of ocular events. In addition to this, the association of individual risk factors as well as the pre-existing of ophthalmologic diseases may have severe consequences onto the visual function.
Faktor-faktor Determinan Kemandirian Wanita dalam Berwirausaha untuk Wilayah Banten
Authors: Surahman Arif , Arifianto Chandra Fitra , Hapsari Andriyani
Published: December 2019

Abstrak
Penelitian ini berupaya untuk mengukur kemandirian wirausahawan wanita dengan melihat kepada faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhinya, antara lain berupa: akses terhadap teknologi,  pengalaman pernah kerja, kepemilikan anak, jumlah modal awal, dan tingkat pendidikan yang tinggi. Sampel yang diambil sebanyak 193 wirausahawan wanita yang memiliki usaha di wilayah provinsi Banten, dimana peneliti memberikan quesioner yang dijawab oleh responden. Metode untuk analisis data yang digunakan ialah model regresi binary logistic. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan hasil yang sama dengan yang ditemukan oleh Chaganti (1986), Universitas George Washington dan Riza, Setianingsih dan Chandra (2016) yang menemukan bahwa pengalaman kerja pada tempat sebelumnya dapat meningkatkan peluang seorang wirausahawan wanita menjadi mandiri. Selain itu, akses teknologi sebagai bagian dari perekonomian digital juga ditemukan bisa mendorong peluang seorang wirausahawan wanita menjadi mandiri.
 Abstract
This research is trying to measure the independence of women entrepreneurship by looking at various influencing factors such as Access to technology, working experience, owning a child, the amount of first capital and high level of education. The sample that is being used for this research is 193 respondent who lives in Banten. Questionnaires are used as an instrument for this research. The method of data analysis that is being used in this research are Binary Logistic Regression. The results from this research have shown the same result from findings of Chaganti (1986), and Riza, Setianingsih and Chandra (2016) which concluded that working experience can increase the probability for an independent women entrepreneurs. Moreover, access to technology as a part of the digital economy also has been proven can motivate the odds of women entrepreneur to become independent.
Pengaruh Dow Jones Indeks, Strait Time , dan Hang Sheng Terhadap Indeks Harga Saham Gabungan dengan Pendekatan Eror Correction Model
Authors: Situngkir Tiar Lina
Published: December 2019

Abstrak
Tujuan penelitian ini adalah menganalisis pengaruh Dow Jones Index, Strait Times Index dan Hang seng Indeks terhadap indeks harga saham gabungan. Metodologi yang digunakan dalam menganalisa adalah Error Correction Model. Hasil penelitian menemukan bahwa DJI dalam jangka pendek dan panjang berpengaruh positif tidak signifikan. STI dalam jangka pendek dan panjang berpengaruh berpengaruh positif signifikan. HSE dalam jangka pendek dan panjang berpengaruh negatif tidak signifikan. Simpulan secara simultan dalam penelitian ini terbukti paling tidak terdapat satu variabel independen berpengaruh signifikan.
Abstract
The objective of this research is to analyse whether the Dow Jones Index, Strait Times Index and Hang Seng Index, each has a significant effect on Composite Stock Index. The methodology of analysis of this research is the Error Correction Model. The result of research found that in the short term Dow Jones has no significant while in the long term it has a positive and significant impact on Indonesian Composite Stock Index. Summary In the short and long term Strait Time Index has a positive and significant impact. In short and long term Hang Seng Index has no significant on Composite Stock Index.
Commentary Letter: Pneumopericardium Following Blunt Trauma
Authors: Shalaby Amr Abd-El Moneim
Published: December 2019

Pneumopericardium is presence of air within the pericardial space. It is rare complication of blunt or penetrating chest trauma and may also occur iatrogenically. A case report of pneumopericarium caused by blunt chest trauma, condition was diagnosed by chest CT (Computed Tomography) scan; patient was vitally stable and managed conservatively with spontaneous resolution of pneumopericardium 10 days after admission.
Institutional Identity Practices on Twitter
Authors: TEKDEMİR Göklem , ALPARSLAN Büşra
Published: December 2019

The aim of this study is to investigate how a rector of a public university in Turkey, as an academic manager, displayed and managed an institutional identity through using Twitter. The theoretical framework of the study was based on Interaction Process Analysis and Positioning Theory. The tweets by a former rector of a public university, posted during his period of office, were examined in terms of communication preferences based on social-interactional domains, as defined by Bales, and types of self in relation to pronoun use. A qualitative analysis of the tweets showed a preference for task oriented/instrumental social interaction rather than socioemotional, with more frequent uses of the “inclusive we” personal pronoun. The goal of tweeting was to give information about university events, clarify certain discussions, direct students toward the responsible parties regarding their problem, and evaluate certain situations. The analysis revealed that the preference for using Twitter in a task related manner to share information and offer solutions increased over the years of service. Further, over the years, the former rector started to tweet more actively and displayed more socioemotionally based reactions toward his public. In terms of the nature of self and other positioning displayed in this sample of tweets, pronoun-use analysis revealed that the former rector positioned himself as a member of a community, indicated by the more frequent uses of 'we' in task related utterances, as well as negative socioemotional reactions. These results were evaluated in terms of cultural characteristics displayed in language use and leadership.
Childhood Maltreatment History and Adult Depression: Methodological Issues
Authors: ZIVRALI YARAR Esra
Published: December 2019

The association between childhood maltreatment and later mental health problems, especially adult depression, has been widely studied in the literature. The long-term effects of childhood maltreatment have encouraged investigators to examine possible factors and mechanisms explaining this relationship. Studies investigating genetic and nervous, endocrine and immune systems-related factors explaining the link between childhood adversity and adult depression reported significant results. However, findings of studies examining childhood maltreatment and adult depression relationship should be evaluated carefully before taking actions on them due to a number of limitations. This paper documented some of these methodological issues briefly: concerns about definition and terms used for maltreatment, generalizability of results, uncontrolled factors, unreturned data, multiple maltreatment types and assessment of maltreatment. Findings of research on long-term effects of maltreatment are promising to offer new research directions as well as development of strategies to help individuals with early maltreatment history and depression in adulthood. Future studies should take methodological concerns into consideration and try to overcome related limitations.
Penggunaan Daun Jambu Biji untuk Menurunkan Demam oleh Penduduk Di Sentani
Authors: Thome Angela Librianty , Sudiana I Ketut , Bakar Abu
Published: December 2019

Psidium guajava is a plant that can have a good effect on health problems, especially complaints of fever. The purpose of this study to describe the use of guava leaves in reducing fever. The research method used was descriptive with a quantitative approach. The subjects of this study were population in Sentani, who had or still use guava leaves with this research variable was the use of guava leaves. The variable of this research was the use of guava leaves. Data collection used was a questionnaire with descriptive analysis to describe the characteristics of respondents who had used guava leaves. The results showed that guava leaves were used by boiling (96.9%) and chewed 1 (3.1%) with leaf number varied.

Keywords: leaves; Psidium guajava; fever

ABSTRAK

Jambu biji merupakan tanaman yang dianggap dapat memberikan efek yang baik terhadap masalah kesehatan, khususnya keluhan demam. Tujuan penelitian ini untuk menggambarkan penggunaan daun jambu biji dalam menurunkan demam. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah deskriptif dengan pendekatan kuantitatif. Subjek penelitian ini adalah penduduk di Sentani, yang pernah atau masih menggunakan daun jambu biji dengan variabel penelitian penggunaan daun jambu biji. Pengumpulan data yang digunakan adalah kuesioner dengan analisis deskriptif untuk menggambarkan karakteristik responden yang menggunakan daun jambu biji. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa daun jambu biji yang digunakan dengan cara direbus 32 (96,9%) dan dikunyah 1 (3,1%) dengan jumlah daun bervariasi.

Kata kunci: daun; Psidium guajava; demam
The Relationship Between Perceived Social Support, Empathic Tendencies and Empathic Skills
Authors: Yigitbaş Çağla , Bulut Aliye , Günseli Selin
Published: December 2019

Aim: Social support is one of the factors that play a protective role against hazards to physical and mental health. Social support is one of the factors that contribute positively to empathy. The aim of this study is to determine whether there is a relationship between social support, empathic tendency and empathic skills.

Methods: This is a cross-sectional study. The population of the study consisted of all 742 undergraduate students receiving education about health at a public university. After the power analysis, the number of people to be sampled was calculated as 441. The necessary permissions were obtained for the research. Perceived Social Support Scale and Empathic Tendency and Empathic Skill Scale were used in the study.

Results: The mean age of the participants was 20.83±1.93. The scores of social support and sub-dimensions are high, but the scores of empathic tendencies and skills are low. A significant relationship was found between perceived social support and empathic tendency and empathic skills. Those who are 21 years or older have higher potential for empathy. The midwifery department has higher social support, empathic tendency and empathic skill scores.

Conclusion: Although perceived social support was associated with empathic tendency, empathic skills were not.

Keywords: social support, empathic tendency, empathy, students
Andragógica y Praxeología: Trialéctica para la transformación desde la comunicación universitaria
Authors: Barrios Briceño Nanci Coromoto , Luchón Mogollón Marieva , Gómez Naranjo Maria Eugenia
Published: December 2019

La presente investigación tuvo como propósito comprender cómo se vive en la educación universitaria la gestión andragógica, desde su praxis, examinando el discurso cotidiano de los informantes clave, con el fin último de construir una trama trialéctica para la transformación andragógica desde la praxeología apoyada en la comunicación. El estudio estuvo configurado en el paradigma pospositivista, enmarcado en un proceso metodológico fenomenológico hermenéutico. La información fue recabada aplicando como técnica una entrevista en profundidad a dos (2) facilitadores y un (1) participante de una Universidad pública en Venezuela, empleando como instrumento la grabadora. El tratamiento de los datos obtenidos se realizó en dos fases; la primera, fenomenológica aplicando las reducciones y la segunda a través del giro hermenéutico para lograr la interpretación. Todo ello permitió la Construcción de una Trama Trialéctica para la transformación andragógica fundamentada en la Praxeología, desde la cual se logre mirar a la educación universitaria desde una óptica de reflexión y acción de sus protagonistas, tomando como referentes tres aspectos fundamentales del individuo; lo humano, lo cognitivo y lo social.
Propuesta de políticas para reducir el riesgo de pérdida de información en la plataforma Cloud office 365 en una empresa comercial
Authors: Rupay Velazco Merlin Stefanny , Correa Rosales César Marcelo , Rivas Flores Kiara Alessandra , Salvatierra Garamendi Miriam Erica
Published: December 2019

La investigación tuvo como objetivo proponer políticas de seguridad de la información para la protección de datos sensibles de la empresa que utilizan frecuentemente los trabajadores en la plataforma de office 365, segmentando documentos de data sensible por áreas, usuarios determinados y mejorando la seguridad de accesos a sus cuentas de correo, o acceso a dispositivos móviles que no cuentan con limitaciones en el uso de la data organizacional. El estudio se basó en el sintagma holístico, enfoque mixto y en el tipo proyectivo, se aplicaron métodos de recolección cuantitativo y cualitativo. Para ello, se entrevistó a tres usuarios con los cargos respectivos de director, gerente y jefe del área; se extrajeron registros de auditoría con accesos de usuarios desde ambientes externos e internos, el cual nos ayudó a conocer quienes acceden a sus cuentas desde IP's fuera del rango de la oficina. Se evidenció que poseen acceso a sus cuentas y documentos de la empresa, los mismos que pueden ser eliminados y/o descargados porque utilizan los servicios en nube de SharePoint u OneDrive. En conclusión, la información se ve expuesta a ser sustraída y manipulada por usuarios externos, dado que la empresa tiene políticas básicas aplicadas a los usuarios.
Impacto de las importaciones no petroleras desde China, en la balanza comercial del Ecuador, período 2013-2017
Authors: Delgado Olaya Ruth Maryury , Yánez Sarmiento Mariana Marisol
Published: December 2019

Las importaciones no petroleras ecuatorianas desde China en los últimos años, han tenido un efecto significativo en la balanza comercial, generando conocimiento sobre la situación del Ecuador durante el período analizado, en aspectos macroeconómicos como el saldo comercial que afectó al producto interno bruto (PIB) en un promedio del 3%; las importaciones desde China han provocado una salida de capitales de 15.262 millones de dólares; provocando inestabilidad macroeconómica, entre otros. La importante cantidad de información disponible al respecto, que constituye una fuente de información secundaria, que permitió realizar un análisis comparativo percentil de las importaciones y exportaciones no petroleras de los datos recopilados. Este análisis permitió realizar ciertas conclusiones a priori, por ejemplo que para generar desarrollo y crecimiento en el Ecuador se debe apoyar a la producción y a la industrialización, generar estrategias como convenios y acuerdos bilaterales de cooperación y apoyo mutuo que favorezcan a las partes; abriendo mercados en otras latitudes, que contribuyan a mejorar las cuentas nacionales y un posible equilibrio comercial con China.
Identidad local y ejercicio de la ciudadanía en jóvenes de Villa El Salvador
Authors: Pacheco Sánchez Daysi Karol , Rios Rios Segundo Waldemar
Published: December 2019

La presente investigación tuvo como objetivo principal establecer la relación entre identidad local y el ejercicio de la ciudadanía en un grupo de 195 jóvenes (50.4% mujeres) de Villa El Salvador entre 14 y 29 años, a través de un estudio correlacional, con el fin de describir y analizar la relación entre ambas variables de estudio.  Para la evaluación de estas variables se elaboraron dos escalas: La Escala de Identidad Local (ESIL) y la Escala del Ejercicio de la Ciudadanía (EECI), de las cuales se reportaron evidencias de validez basadas en el contenido, el constructo y confiabilidad por consistencia interna, obteniéndose resultados satisfactorios para ambas escalas. Asimismo, se encontraron niveles promedio de identidad local y ejercicio de la ciudadanía en la muestra de jóvenes de Villa El Salvador. Por otro lado, al establecer la relación entre la identidad local y el ejercicio de la ciudadanía, se encontró una correlación de Pearson (r = .653, p< .01), esto nos indica que existe una relación positiva altamente significativa entre las variables de estudio. Estos hallazgos sugieren que cuanto mayor es el nivel de identidad local mayor es el nivel del ejercicio de la ciudadanía.
Análisis de pertinencia en empresas con gestión del desempeño por competencias: Cantón Jipijapa
Authors: Bustamante Chong Cesar , Bustamante Chong Mariana , Varas Chiquito Michelle
Published: December 2019

El siguiente artículo es de naturaleza teórica y tiene por objetivo presentar un análisis de pertinencia en empresas con gestión del desempeño por competencias, desde el punto de vista de la productividad, así como herramienta de desarrollo en el área urbana del cantón Jipijapa con el fin de mejorar factores internos y externos que afectan estas empresas. El progreso del movimiento económico, se manifiesta por la producción y mantenimiento de la eficacia del conocimiento para la estabilidad, la elaboración   y el éxito de una organización, este entorno ha solidificado una atmosfera competitiva, en el que las empresas deben ofertar la innovación incesante de sus ventajas competitivas a través de permanentes renovaciones y el desarrollo de nuevos conocimientos y capacidades. La metodología que se utilizó es de origen mixto y se recurrió a tres de sus técnicas que son la observación, la revisión bibliográfica y de campo. Mejoramiento de   la gestión del desempeño por competencias para dotar de personal idóneo a la empresa, innovación a través de la tecnología, la competencia del perfil profesional de sus empleados,  determinación de  los  puestos laborales que ocupen o aspiren, de acuerdo a las necesidades de la empresa son los resultados esperados del constantemente cambio a consecuencia de la globalización para contribuir  en la  eficiencia  de la empresa.
S-Band Class-C-F Power Amplifier with 2nd Harmonic Control at the Input
Authors: Li Xiaoxiao , Colantonio Paolo , Giannini Franco , Yu Hongxi , Lin Chenchen
Published: December 2019

Power amplifiers (PAs) are the most power-consuming devices in a transmitter. Their performance in efficiency is crucial to the efficiency of the whole system. Therefore, the issue of high efficiency PA has remained hot over the years. This paper presents an approach to design an S-band single stage class-F PA biased in class-C condition. Through the manipulation of the 2nd harmonic at the input, shaping the voltage waveform at the gate node, a class-F PA with proper output matching network (OMN) is realized. The proposed class-C-F PA achieved 60% drain efficiency (DE) and 36.3 dBm of output power around the 3 dB compression point. The methodology of taking the input non-linearity into consideration is also presented. Its feasibility has been verified through both the design and measurements.
Moving Object Detection from Moving Camera Image Sequences Using an Inertial Measurement Unit Sensor
Authors: Jung Sukwoo , Cho Youngmok , Kim Doojun , Chang Minho
Published: December 2019

This paper describes a new method for the detection of moving objects from moving camera image sequences using an inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor. Motion detection systems with vision sensors have become a global research subject recently. However, detecting moving objects from a moving camera is a difficult task because of egomotion. In the proposed method, the interesting points are extracted by a Harris detector, and the background and foreground are classified by epipolar geometry. In this procedure, an IMU sensor is used to calculate the initial fundamental matrix. After the feature point classification, a transformation matrix is obtained from matching background feature points. Image registration is then applied to the consecutive images, and a difference map is extracted to find the foreground region. Finally, a minimum bounding box is applied to mark the detected moving object. The proposed method is implemented and tested with numerous real-world driving videos, which show that it outperforms the previous work.
The Role of Autophagy in Pancreatic Cancer—Recent Advances
Authors: New Maria , Tooze Sharon
Published: December 2019

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains one of the deadliest cancers with a 5-year survival rate of only 9%, despite ongoing efforts to improve treatment. This dismal prognosis is due to the difficulty of early stage diagnosis, drug resistance, and likelihood of metastasis development. It is therefore of great importance to identify appropriate therapeutic targets and gain a greater understanding of PDAC biology. Autophagy is a membrane-mediated degradation and recycling mechanism, which is crucial for cell homeostasis. There is evidence for both a tumor-suppressive and a tumor-promoting role of autophagy in cancer, and this is likely context dependent. Within PDAC, a large body of evidence points towards autophagy being required for tumor survival and metabolism. In this review, we describe the recent advances in the understanding of the role and regulation of autophagy in PDAC.
Dawn to Dusk: Diurnal Rhythm of the Immune Response in Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus Mykiss)
Authors: Montero Ruth , Strzelczyk Joanna Ewa , Tze Ho Chan Justin , Verleih Marieke , Rebl Alexander , Goldammer Tom , Köllner Bernd , Korytář Tomáš
Published: December 2019

The daily change of light and dark periods influences different physiological processes including feeding, resting and locomotor activity. Previously, several studies on mammalian models revealed a strong link between day-night rhythms and key immunological parameters. Since teleost fishes possess innate and adaptive immune responses like those observed in higher vertebrates, we aimed to elucidate how changes in light-dark cycles shape the immune system of fish. Using the rainbow trout laboratory model, we investigated the link between diurnal rhythms and immune competence of fish. Initially, the cell composition and phagocytic activity of leukocytes was analyzed in the circulation as well as in the head kidney, the functional ortholog of mammalian bone marrow. Once the baseline was established, we evaluated the ability of fish to respond to a bacterial stimulus, as well as the changes in antimicrobial activity of the serum. Our results suggest increased immune competence during the day, manifested by the higher presence of myeloid cells in the circulation; increased overall phagocytic activity; and higher capacity of the sera to inhibit the growth of Aeromonas salmonicida. Notably, our flow cytometric analysis identified the myeloid cells as the major population influenced by the time of day, whereas IgM+ B cells and thrombocytes did not vary in a significant manner. Interestingly, the presence of myeloid cells in blood and head kidney followed complementary trends. Thus, while we observed the highest number of myeloid cells in the blood during early morning, we witnessed a reverse trend in the head kidney, suggesting a homing of myeloid cells to reservoir niches with the onset of the dark phase. Further, the presence of myeloid cells was mirrored in the expression of the proinflammatory marker tnfa as well as in the number of leukocytes recruited to the peritoneal cavity in the peritonitis model of inflammation. Overall, the data suggest a connection between diurnal rhythms and the immune response of rainbow trout and highlight the relevance of rhythmicity and its influence on experimental work in the field of fish chronoimmunology.
Interaction of a Novel Zn2Cys6 Transcription Factor DcGliZ with Promoters in the Gliotoxin Biosynthetic Gene Cluster of the Deep-Sea-Derived Fungus Dichotomomyces cejpii
Authors: Huang Zi-Lei , Ye Wei , Zhu Mu-Zi , Kong Ya-Li , Li Sai-Ni , Liu Shan , Zhang Wei-Min
Published: December 2019

Gliotoxin is an important epipolythiodioxopiperazine, which was biosynthesized by the gli gene cluster in Aspergillus genus. However, the regulatory mechanism of gliotoxin biosynthesis remains unclear. In this study, a novel Zn2Cys6 transcription factor DcGliZ that is responsible for the regulation of gliotoxin biosynthesis from the deep-sea-derived fungus Dichotomomyces cejpii was identified. DcGliZ was expressed in Escherichia coli and effectively purified from inclusion bodies by refolding. Using electrophoretic mobility shift assay, we demonstrated that purified DcGliZ can bind to gliG, gliM, and gliN promoter regions in the gli cluster. Furthermore, the binding kinetics and affinity of DcGliZ protein with different promoters were measured by surface plasmon resonance assays, and the results demonstrated the significant interaction of DcGliZ with the gliG, gliM, and gliN promoters. These new findings would lay the foundation for the elucidation of future gliotoxin biosynthetic regulation mechanisms in D. cejpii.
Cytotoxic Effects of the Dual ErbB Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor, Lapatinib, on Walker 256 Rat Breast Tumour and IEC-6 Rat Normal Small Intestinal Cell Lines
Authors: Wan Mohamad Zain Wan Nor I′zzah , Bowen Joanne , Bateman Emma , Keefe Dorothy
Published: December 2019

Lapatinib is an orally administered, dual ErbB1/ErbB2 tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI). It is effective in ErbB2 + ve breast cancer treatment. However, lapatinib is associated with diarrhoea with an incidence of 47–75%. The mechanism of ErbB1 TKI-induced diarrhoea remains unclear. ErbB1 or epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is expressed in gastrointestinal mucosa whereby the primary site for drug absorption is intestine. Thus, administration of ErbB1 oral TKI may disrupt gut homeostasis, leading to diarrhoea. Nevertheless, further investigations are required. We observed that lapatinib inhibited 50% Walker 256 breast tumour cells and IEC-6 small intestinal cell growth. Higher percentage of necrosis was observed in lapatinib-treated Walker 256. Lapatinib-treated IEC-6 showed higher percentage of late apoptosis. Only ErbB2 mRNA was detected in Walker 256 but both ErbB1 and ErbB2 mRNAs were detected in IEC-6, yet both protein staining were detected in both cells. Lapatinib exhibited cytotoxic properties on ErbB1/ErbB2 expressing cell lines, with intestinal cells being more sensitive to lapatinib compared to tumour cells. Lapatinib induced necrosis in tumour cells, while inducing late apoptosis in intestinal cells may explain lapatinib-induced diarrhoea in patients administered with the drug which could be due to apoptosis of intestinal epithelial cells leading to barrier disruption and consequently diarrhoea.
Retropharyngeal Lymph Node Involvement in Oropharyngeal Carcinoma: Impact upon Risk of Distant Metastases and Survival Outcomes
Authors: Iyizoba-Ebozue Zsuzsanna , Murray Louise J. , Arunsingh Moses , Dyker Karen E. , Vaidyanathan Sriram , Scarsbrook Andrew F. , Prestwich Robin J. D.
Published: December 2019

The influence of retropharyngeal lymph node (RPLN) involvement on prognosis in oropharyngeal carcinoma remains poorly defined. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of RPLN involvement upon outcomes. A single-centre retrospective analysis of 402 patients with oropharyngeal carcinoma treated nonsurgically between 2010 and 2017 was performed. All had a baseline 2-[fluorine-18]-fluoro-2-deoxy-d-glucose (FDG) PET-CT and contrast-enhanced MRI and/or CT. RPLN status was determined by radiology review of cases with reported abnormal RPLN. Multivariate backwards logistic regression was used to examine impact on outcomes of factors. Abnormal RPLNs were identified in 40/402 (10%) of patients. Median follow up was 42.9 months. RPLN involvement was associated with inferior 3 year outcomes for overall survival (OS) (67.1% vs. 79.1%, p = 0.006) and distant metastases-free survival (DMFS) (73.9% versus 88.0%, p = 0.011), with no significant difference in local control (81.6% vs. 87.7%, p = 0.154) or regional control (80.7% vs. 85.4%, p = 0.252). On multivariate analysis abnormal RPLN, no concurrent chemotherapy and ongoing smoking were associated with inferior DMFS and OS, while advanced T stage was also associated with inferior OS. In summary, RPLN involvement, present in 10% of patients, was an independent prognostic factor for the development of distant disease failure translating into inferior OS. These findings need confirmation in future studies.
Flavor Release from Spray-Dried Powders with Various Wall Materials
Authors: Takashige Shisei , Ariyanto Hermawan Dwi , Adachi Shuji , Yoshii Hidefumi
Published: December 2019

By using the ramping method for humidity at a constant temperature, the release rates of d-limonene were investigated from spray-dried powders with various wall materials, such as maltodextrin (MD) (dextrose equivalent (DE) = 25 and 19), lactose (Lac), and sucrose (Suc). Spray-dried powders, which were sieved to the average powder size of 107–140 µm, contained d-limonene at about 90–97 mg/g-dry powder. d-limonene release profile was measured using a dynamic vapor sorption (DVS) system coupled gas chromatography at 30, 40, and 50 °C from 10% to 90% relative humidity (RH). The linear correlation was found between the release start humidity, sRH, of d-limonene release from the powder and the glass transition temperature of wall materials. The release rates for Suc and Lac increased rapidly at certain humidities and became the maximum rates. Then, these rates decreased gradually with increasing RH. This might have been due to the powder aggregation for Suc and to crystallization for Lac. The release behaviors significantly depended on the wall materials.
How Vine Shoots as Fillers Impact the Biodegradation of PHBV-Based Composites
Authors: David Grégoire , Michel Julie , Gastaldi Emmanuelle , Gontard Nathalie , Angellier-Coussy Hélène
Published: December 2019

Vine shoots are lignocellulosic agricultural residues. In addition to being an interesting source of polyphenols, they can be used as fillers in a poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) matrix to decrease the overall cost and to propose an alternative to non-biodegradable fossil-based materials. The objective of the present work was to investigate how the incorporation of vine shoots fillers and a preliminary polyphenol extraction step could impact the biodegradability of biocomposites. Biocomposites (20 wt %) were produced by microcompounding. The biodegradation of materials was assessed by respirometric tests in soil. The negative impact of polyphenols on the biodegradability of vine shoots was confirmed. This was supported by crystallinity measurements and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations, which showed no difference in structure nor morphology between virgin and exhausted vine shoots particles. The incorporation of vine shoots fillers in PHBV slightly accelerated the overall biodegradation kinetics. All the biocomposites produced were considered fully biodegradable according to the French and European standard NF EN 17033, allowing the conclusion that up-cycling vine shoots for the production of lignocellulosic fillers is a promising strategy to provide biodegradable materials in natural conditions. Moreover, in a biorefinery context, polyphenol extraction from vine shoots has the advantage of improving their biodegradability.
Food-Derived Collagen Peptides, Prolyl-Hydroxyproline (Pro-Hyp), and Hydroxyprolyl-Glycine (Hyp-Gly) Enhance Growth of Primary Cultured Mouse Skin Fibroblast Using Fetal Bovine Serum Free from Hydroxyprolyl Peptide
Authors: Asai Tomoko T. , Oikawa Fumi , Yoshikawa Kazunobu , Inoue Naoki , Sato Kenji
Published: December 2019

Prolyl-hydroxyproline (Pro-Hyp) and hydroxyprolyl-glycine (Hyp-Gly) appear in human blood after ingestion of collagen hydrolysate and trigger growth of fibroblasts attached on collagen gel, which has been associated with beneficial effects upon ingestion of collagen hydrolysate, such as improvement of skin and joint conditions. In the present study, inconsistent results were obtained by using different lots of fetal bovine serum (FBS). Fibroblasts proliferated in collagen gel without adding Pro-Hyp and Hyp-Gly and did not respond to addition of Pro-Hyp and Hyp-Gly, which raises doubts about conclusions from prior research. Unexpectedly high levels of hydroxyprolyl peptides, including Pro-Hyp, however, were present in the FBS (approximately 100 µM), and also in other commercially available forms of FBS (70–80 µM). After removal of low molecular weight (LMW, < 6000 Da) compounds from the FBS by size exclusion chromatography, Pro-Hyp and Hyp-Gly again triggered growth of fibroblasts attached on collagen and increased the number of fibroblasts migrated from mouse skin. These results indicate the presence of bioactive hydroxyprolyl peptides in commercially available FBS, which can mask effects of Pro-Hyp and Hyp-Gly supplementation; our work confirms that Pro-Hyp and Hyp-Gly do play crucial roles in proliferation of fibroblasts.
Maxillary Antrostomy Patency Following Intraoperative Use of Spray Cryotherapy
Authors: Trombitaș Veronica , Zolog Adriana , Toader Mioriţa , Albu Silviu
Published: December 2019

Objectives/Hypothesis: Stenosis of the middle meatus antrostomy (MMA) represents a major cause of recurrent disease following endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). Various strategies have been developed to prevent the occurrence of MMA stenosis. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of spray cryotherapy (SC) on nasal wound healing following ESS. Methods: This is a prospective within-subject, randomized, and controlled trial. Twenty-six patients submitted to bilateral ESS with chronic rhinosinusitis without polyps were included. Following surgery, patients were randomized to receive SC on one side and saline contralaterally. Outcomes were represented by MMA diameter and area, histology of nasal mucosa, and nasal symptoms. Variables were assessed at 3 and 12 months postoperatively. Results: The MMA size in the SC group at 3 and 12 months (area—0.578 ± 0.1025 cm2, diameter—0.645 ± 0.1024 cm; 0.605 ± 0.1891 cm2, 0.624 ± 0.0961 cm, respectively) was significantly larger (p = 0.000) than in the control group. Histology established that cell infiltration, goblet cells, edema, and epithelial hyperplasia were prominent and persistent in the control side compared to the SC side. Nasal obstruction and discharge were significantly improved in the SC group compared to the control group. Conclusion: SC is a promising therapy following ESS, since it precludes MMA stenosis and decreases inflammation, edema, and goblet cell hyperplasia.
Possible Interaction between Dabigatran and Ranolazine in Patients with Renal Failure
Authors: Gumbrevičius Gintautas , Damulevičienė Gytė , Galaunė Vaidotas , Gumbrevičiūtė Milda
Published: December 2019

Dabigatran etexilate is a direct oral anticoagulant (thrombin inhibitor) used for the prevention of stroke and systemic thromboembolic events in patients with permanent atrial fibrillation; prevention of venous thromboembolic events and deep veins thrombosis; treatment and prevention of pulmonary embolism. Dabigatran is a relatively new drug, and as a result, its interactions with other medications and their significance are not fully known. A 72 years old male, having a medical history of heart and renal failure, was hospitalized for pneumonia treatment. The patient was taking several drugs, including dabigatran 150 mg twice daily and ranolazine 750 mg twice daily. His creatinine clearance was 45.22 mL/min, International Normalized Ratio (INR)—7.03. Dabigatran was discontinued. After 9 days, INR decreased to 1.33, and after 6 days, creatinine clearance increased to 64.39 mL/min. The patient was taking an adequate dosage of dabigatran, thus dabigatran was thought to be overdosed due to its interaction with ranolazine because dabigatran is a p-glycoprotein substrate, whereas ranolazine is the inhibitor of this transporter. Dabigatran and ranolazine should be used with caution in patients with renal failure. It is recommended to use smaller doses of both medications and observe coagulation parameters if needed.
Breakthroughs in Medicinal Chemistry: New Targets and Mechanisms, New Drugs, New Hopes–6
Authors: Vanden Eynde Jean Jacques , Mangoni Arduino A. , Rautio Jarkko , Leprince Jérôme , Azuma Yasu-Taka , García-Sosa Alfonso T. , Hulme Christopher , Jampilek Josef , Karaman Rafik , Li Wei , Gomes Paula A. C. , Hadjipavlou-Litina Dimitra , Capasso Raffaele , Geronikaki Athina , Cerchia Laura , Sabatier Jean-Marc , Ragno Rino , Tuccinardi Tiziano , Trabocchi Andrea , Winum Jean-Yves , Luque F. Javier , Prokai-Tatrai Katalin , Spetea Mariana , Gütschow Michael , Kosalec Ivan , Guillou Catherine , Vasconcelos M. Helena , Kokotos George , Rastelli Giulio , de Sousa Maria Emília , Manera Clementina , Gemma Sandra , Mangani Stefano , Siciliano Carlo , Galdiero Stefania , Liu Hong , Scott Peter J. H. , de los Ríos Cristóbal , Agrofoglio Luigi A. , Collina Simona , Guedes Rita C. , Muñoz-Torrero Diego
Published: December 2019

Breakthroughs in Medicinal Chemistry: New Targets and Mechanisms, New Drugs, New Hopes is a series of Editorials that is published on a biannual basis by the Editorial Board of the Medicinal Chemistry section of the journal Molecules [...]
Highly Loaded Cellulose/Poly (butylene succinate) Sustainable Composites for Woody-Like Advanced Materials Application
Authors: Platnieks Oskars , Gaidukovs Sergejs , Barkane Anda , Gaidukova Gerda , Grase Liga , Thakur Vijay Kumar , Filipova Inese , Fridrihsone Velta , Skute Marite , Laka Marianna
Published: December 2019

We report the manufacturing and characterization of poly (butylene succinate) (PBS) and micro cellulose (MCC) woody-like composites. These composites can be applied as a sustainable woody-like composite alternative to conventional fossil polymer-based wood-plastic composites (WPC). The PBS/MCC composites were prepared by using a melt blending of 70 wt% of MCC processed from bleached softwood. MCC was modified to enhance dispersion and compatibility by way of carbodiimide (CDI), polyhydroxy amides (PHA), alkyl ester (EST), (3-Aminopropyl) trimethoxysilane (APTMS), maleic acid anhydride (MAH), and polymeric diphenylmethane diisocyanate (PMDI). The addition of filler into PBS led to a 4.5-fold improvement of Young’s modulus E for the MCC composite, in comparison to neat PBS. The 1.6-fold increase of E was obtained for CDI modified composition in comparison to the unmodified MCC composite. At room temperature, the storage modulus E′ was found to improve by almost 4-fold for the APTMS composite. The EST composite showed a pronounced enhancement in viscoelasticity properties due to the introduction of flexible long alkyl chains in comparison to other compositions. The glass transition temperature was directly affected by the composition and its value was −15 °C for PBS, −30 °C for EST, and −10 °C for MAH composites. FTIR indicated the generation of strong bonding between the polymer and cellulose components in the composite. Scanning electron microscopy analysis evidenced the agglomeration of the MCC in the PBS/MCC composites. PMDI, APTMS, and CDI composites were characterized by the uniform dispersion of MCC particles and a decrease of polymer crystallinity. MCC chemical modification induced the enhancement of the thermal stability of MCC composites.
Application of Photo-Electrochemically Generated Hydrogen with Fuel Cell Based Micro-Combined Heat and Power: A Dynamic System Modelling Study
Authors: Ronaszegi Krisztian , Fraga Eric S. , Darr Jawwad , Shearing Paul R. , Brett Dan J. L.
Published: December 2019

Photo-electrochemical (PEC) hydrogen generation is a promising technology and alternative to photovoltaic (PV)-electrolyser combined systems. Since there are no commercially available PEC cells and very limited field trials, a computer simulation was used to assess the efficacy of the approach for different domestic applications. Three mathematical models were used to obtain a view on how PEC generated hydrogen is able to cover demands for a representative dwelling. The analysed home was grid-connected and used a fuel cell based micro-CHP (micro-combined heat and power) system. Case studies were carried out that considered four different photo-electrode technologies to capture a range of current and possible future device efficiencies. The aim for this paper was to evaluate the system performance such as efficiency, fuel consumption and CO2 reduction capability. At the device unit level, the focus was on photo-electrode technological aspects, such as the effect of band-gap energy represented by different photo-materials on productivity of hydrogen and its uncertainty caused by the incident photon-to-current conversion efficiency (IPCE), which is highly electrode preparation specific. The presented dynamic model allows analysis of the performance of a renewable energy source integrated household with variable loads, which will aid system design and decision-making.