bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of the Just-About-Right Scales in the Development of New Healthy Whole-Wheat Muffins by the Addition of a Product Obtained from White and Red Grape Pomace
Authors: Ortega-Heras Miriam , Gómez Inmaculada , de Pablos-Alcalde Sara , González-Sanjosé María Luisa
Published: September 2019

The aim of this study was to evaluate the adequacy of sensory attributes, by the use of just-about-right (JAR) scales and penalty analysis, of new healthy whole-wheat muffins with high fibre content due to the addition of two products obtained from white and red grape pomace. Furthermore, the nutritional, colour and texture properties of the muffins were evaluated. For that, five formulations of whole-wheat muffins were studied: a control muffin made with 100% whole-wheat flour and muffins made with 10 and 20% of white and red grape pomace product, respectively. The incorporation of grape pomace products in the recipe led to muffins with "high-fibre content", which would imply healthy properties in these muffins. The hardness and chewiness increased whereas the springiness, cohesiveness, resilience and colour parameters decreased when the grape pomace products were incorporated. The sensory analysis indicated high levels of acceptability of the muffins that incorporated white and red grape pomace products at concentrations of 10%. The penalty analysis showed that none of the attributes evaluated affected the acceptability of the new muffins significantly; only the darker colour of the muffins caused by the red grape pomace product could affect the acceptability, although this fact was not clearly demonstrated.
Mid-Frequency Hearing Loss Is Characteristic Clinical Feature of OTOA-Associated Hearing Loss
Authors: Sugiyama Kenjiro , Moteki Hideaki , Kitajiri Shin-ichiro , Kitano Tomohiro , Nishio Shin-ya , Yamaguchi Tomomi , Wakui Keiko , Abe Satoko , Ozaki Akiko , Motegi Remi , Matsui Hirooki , Teraoka Masato , Kobayashi Yumiko , Kosho Tomoki , Usami Shin-ichi
Published: September 2019

The OTOA gene (Locus: DFNB22) is reported to be one of the causative genes for non-syndromic autosomal recessive hearing loss. The copy number variations (CNVs) identified in this gene are also known to cause hearing loss, but have not been identified in Japanese patients with hearing loss. Furthermore, the clinical features of OTOA-associated hearing loss have not yet been clarified. In this study, we performed CNV analyses of a large Japanese hearing loss cohort, and identified CNVs in 234 of 2262 (10.3%, 234/2262) patients with autosomal recessive hearing loss. Among the identified CNVs, OTOA gene-related CNVs were the second most frequent (0.6%, 14/2262). Among the 14 cases, 2 individuals carried OTOA homozygous deletions, 4 carried heterozygous deletions with single nucleotide variants (SNVs) in another allele. Additionally, 1 individual with homozygous SNVs in the OTOA gene was also identified. Finally, we identified 7 probands with OTOA-associated hearing loss, so that its prevalence in Japanese patients with autosomal recessive hearing loss was calculated to be 0.3% (7/2262). As novel clinical features identified in this study, the audiometric configurations of patients with OTOA-associated hearing loss were found to be mid-frequency. This is the first study focused on the detailed clinical features of hearing loss caused by this gene mutation and/or gene deletion.
Expression of ZNF695 Transcript Variants in Childhood B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: De la Rosa Ricardo , Villegas-Ruíz Vanessa , Caballero-Palacios Marcela Concepción , Pérez-López Eleazar Israel , Murata Chiharu , Zapata-Tarres Martha , Cárdenas-Cardos Rocio , Paredes-Aguilera Rogelio , Rivera-Luna Roberto , Juárez-Méndez Sergio
Published: September 2019

B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia is the most commonly diagnosed childhood malignancy worldwide; more than 50% of these cases are diagnosed in Mexico. Although the five-year survival rate is >80%, 30% of patients experience relapse with poor prognosis. Cancer-associated gene expression profiles have been identified in several malignancies, and some transcripts have been used to predict disease prognosis. The human transcriptome is incompletely elucidated; moreover, more than 80% of transcripts can be processed via alternative splicing (AS), which increases transcript and protein diversity. The human transcriptome is divided; coding RNA accounts for ~2%, and the remaining 98% is noncoding RNA. Noncoding RNA can undergo AS, promoting the diversity of noncoding transcripts. We designed specific primers to amplify previously reported alternative transcript variants of ZNF695 and showed that six ZNF695 transcript variants are co-expressed in cancer cell lines. The amplicons were sequenced and identified. Additionally, we analyzed the expression of these six transcript variants in bone marrow from B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia patients and observed that ZNF695 transcript variants one and three were the predominant variants expressed in leukemia. Moreover, our results showed the co-expression of coding and long noncoding RNA. Finally, we observed that long noncoding RNA ZNF695 expression predicted survival rates.
Advances of Molecular Markers and Their Application for Body Variables and Carcass Traits in Qinchuan Cattle
Authors: Raza Sayed Haidar Abbas , Khan Rajwali , Abdelnour Sameh A. , Abd El-Hack Mohamed E. , Khafaga Asmaa F. , Taha Ayman , Ohran Husein , Mei Chugang , Schreurs Nicola M. , Zan Linsen
Published: September 2019

This review considers the unique characteristics of Chinese cattle and intramuscular fat content (IMF) as factors influencing meat quality, including tenderness, flavor, and juiciness of meat. Due to its nutritional qualities, meat contributes to a healthy and balanced diet. The intramuscular fat content and eating quality of beef are influenced by many factors, which can generally be divided into on-farm and pre-slaughter factors (breed, sex of cattle, age at slaughter, housing system, diet, and pre-slaughter handling) and postmortem factors (post-slaughter processing, chilling temperature, and packaging). Meat quality traits can also be influenced by the individual genetic background of the animal. Worldwide, the function of genes and genetic polymorphisms that have potential effects on fattening of cattle and beef quality have been investigated. The use of DNA markers is recognized as a powerful and efficient approach to achieve genetic gain for desirable phenotypic characteristics, which is helpful for economic growth. The polymorphisms of the SIRT4, SIRT6, SIRT7, CRTC3, ABHD5, KLF6, H-FABP, and ELOVL6 genes for body and growth characteristics of cattle, and also for beef quality, are considered with the aim of highlighting the significance of beef intramuscular fat content, and that growth, body, and meat quality characteristics are polygenically regulated.
A Systematic Review Protocol Investigating Community Gardening Impact Measures
Authors: Kingsley Jonathan , Bailey Aisling , Torabi Nooshin , Zardo Pauline , Mavoa Suzanne , Gray Tonia , Tracey Danielle , Pettitt Philip , Zajac Nicholas , Foenander Emily
Published: September 2019

Existing community gardening research has tended to be exploratory and descriptive, utilising qualitative or mixed methodologies to explore and understand community garden participation. While research on community gardening attracts growing interest, the empirical rigour of measurement scales and embedded indicators has received comparatively less attention. Despite the extensive body of community gardening literature, a coherent narrative on valid, high quality approaches to the measurement of outcomes and impact across different cultural contexts is lacking and yet to be comprehensively examined. This is essential as cities are becoming hubs for cultural diversity. Systematic literature reviews that explore the multiple benefits of community gardening and other urban agriculture activities have been undertaken, however, a systematic review of the impact measures of community gardening is yet to be completed. This search protocol aims to address the following questions: (1) How are the health, wellbeing, social and environmental outcomes and impacts of community gardening measured? (2) What cultural diversity considerations have existing community garden measures taken into account? Demographic data will be collected along with clear domains/constructs of experiences, impacts and outcomes captured from previous literature to explore if evidence considers culturally heterogeneous and diverse populations. This will offer an understanding as to whether community gardening research is appropriately measuring this cross-cultural activity.
Chronic Fluoride Exposure and the Risk of Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Strunecka Anna , Strunecky Otakar
Published: September 2019

The continuous rise of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) prevalent in the past few decades is causing an increase in public health and socioeconomic concern. A consensus suggests the involvement of both genetic and environmental factors in the ASD etiopathogenesis. Fluoride (F) is rarely recognized among the environmental risk factors of ASD, since the neurotoxic effects of F are not generally accepted. Our review aims to provide evidence of F neurotoxicity. We assess the risk of chronic F exposure in the ASD etiopathology and investigate the role of metabolic and mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress and inflammation, immunoexcitotoxicity, and decreased melatonin levels. These symptoms have been observed both after chronic F exposure as well as in ASD. Moreover, we show that F in synergistic interactions with aluminum’s free metal cation (Al3+) can reinforce the pathological symptoms of ASD. This reinforcement takes place at concentrations several times lower than when acting alone. A high ASD prevalence has been reported from countries with water fluoridation as well as from endemic fluorosis areas. We suggest focusing the ASD prevention on the reduction of the F and Al3+ burdens from daily life.
Role of Parenting Styles in Adolescent Substance Use Cessation: Results from a Brazilian Prospective Study
Authors: Benchaya Mariana Canellas , Moreira Taís de Campos , Constant Hilda Maria Rodrigues Moleda , Pereira Natália Masiero , Freese Luana , Ferigolo Maristela , Barros Helena Maria Tannhauser
Published: September 2019

Background: This study aims to identify the association between parenting styles and behavioral changes among adolescents regarding the consumption of alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, cocaine/crack. Methods: A group of ninety-nine adolescents (39 girls and 60 boys), aged 14 to 19 years (17.05 ± 1.51), who called in to a call center that provides counseling to substance users, was followed-up for 30 days. Data collection occurred between March 2009 and October 2015. The adolescents answered questions regarding parental responsiveness and demanding nature on a scale to assess parental styles and provided sociodemographic data, substance abuse consumption characteristics, and the Contemplation Ladder scale score. Results: The parental styles most reported by the adolescents were authoritative (30%) and indulgent (28%). Children who perceived their mothers as having an indulgent style and who had absent fathers presented more difficulties in making behavioral changes to avoid alcohol and cocaine/crack consumption. Conclusion: The study found that parent-child relationships were associated with a lack of change in the adolescent regarding substance use behavior, particularly the consumption of alcohol and cocaine/crack.
Antibiotic Susceptibility Patterns, Biofilm Formation and esp Gene among Clinical Enterococci: Is There Any Association?
Authors: Weng Poh Leng , Ramli Ramliza , Hamat Rukman Awang
Published: September 2019

Enterococci are commonly found in humans, animals and environments. Their highly adaptive mechanisms are related to several virulent determinants and their ability to resist antibiotics. Data on the relationship between the esp gene, biofilm formation and antibiotic susceptibility profiles may differ between countries. This cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the proportion of esp gene and biofilm formation among Enterococcus faecalis and Enterococcus faecium clinical isolates. We also investigated the possible association between the esp gene with antibiotic susceptibility patterns and biofilm formation. The isolates were collected from clinical samples and identified using biochemical tests and 16SRNA. Antibiotic susceptibility patterns and a biofilm assay were conducted according to the established guidelines. Molecular detection by PCR was used to identify the esp gene using established primers. In total, 52 and 28 of E. faecalis and E. faecium were identified, respectively. E. faecium exhibited higher resistance rates compared to E. faecalis as follows: piperacillin/tazobactam (100% versus 1.9%), ampicillin (92.8% versus 1.9%), high-level gentamicin resistance (HLGR) (89.3% versus 25.0%) and penicillin (82.1% versus 7.7%). E. faecium produced more biofilms than E. faecalis (59.3% versus 49.0%). E. faecium acquired the esp gene more frequently than E. faecalis (78.6% versus 46.2%). Interestingly, the associations between ampicillin and tazobactam/piperacillin resistance with the esp gene were statistically significant (X2 = 4.581, p = 0.027; and X2 = 6.276, p = 0.012, respectively). Our results demonstrate that E. faecium exhibits high rates of antimicrobial resistance, esp gene acquisition and biofilm formation. These peculiar traits of E. faecium may have implications for the management of enterococcal infections in hospitals. Thus, concerted efforts by all parties in establishing appropriate treatment and effective control measures are warranted in future.
Adequacy of Nutrients Intake among Jordanian Pregnant Women in Comparison to Dietary Reference Intakes
Authors: Tayyem Reema F. , Allehdan Sabika S. , Alatrash Razan M. , Asali Fida F. , Bawadi Hiba A.
Published: September 2019

Objective: Maternal nutrition is considered an important pillar in the pregnancy outcomes for both mother and infant. A mother’s malnutrition and inadequate nutrient intake is associated with many undesirable pregnancy outcomes. Hence, assessing the nutritional status of the mother in the early stages of the pregnancy and preventing any inadequacy can preclude many health problems for both mother and infant. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the adequacy of nutrient intakes among Jordanian pregnant women as compared to their corresponding dietary reference intakes (DRIs). Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at a major University Hospital in Jordan. Three hundred pregnant women were invited to participate in the study and 286 agreed to participate. Fifty pregnant women were enrolled at week 9, then 96 pregnant women were at week 20 and 137 pregnant women were at week 30 of pregnancy. The participants completed the interview-based demographic questionnaire, pregnancy physical activity questionnaire, and quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Results: The mean energy intake was 2768.9 ± 767.8 kcal/day and it was significantly higher in the 3rd trimester (p < 0.05). Women in the 3rd trimester consumed significantly more protein, carbohydrates, and sugar than women in the 1st and 2nd trimesters (p < 0.05). The pregnant women in the 3rd trimester consumed more sodium than women in the 1st and 2nd trimesters (p < 0.05). The vitamin K intake was significantly (p = 0.045) lower in the 2nd trimester than the 1st and 3rd trimesters. The calcium intake was significantly higher in the 3rd trimester than the 1st and 2nd trimesters (p = 0.021). The total micronutrient (vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, B12, and D, calcium, and iron) intakes derived from dietary supplements and food sources throughout the 3 trimesters was significantly higher in the 3rd trimester than the 1st and 2nd trimesters (p < 0.05). The vitamin D, calcium, and iron intakes had the most significant increases between the 1st and 3rd trimesters (p < 0.001), while folic acid intake was significantly higher in the 1st trimester than the 2nd and 3rd trimester (p < 0.001). Most women exceeded the tolerable upper intake level (UL) for sodium in all trimesters, while 82% of women exceeded the UL of folic acid in the 1st trimester and from the supplement, not the diet. Conclusion: While the intake of some nutrients from food alone remains below the DRIs in the diets of pregnant women, the intake of other nutrients is above the UL. Raising the awareness of pregnant women about their diet and how a supplement intake can reduce the risk of inadequate intake for many micronutrients and improve their pregnancy outcomes is of great importance.
Reducing Nitrogen and Phosphorus Losses from Different Crop Types in the Water Source Area of the Danjiang River, China
Authors: Guo Mengjing , Zhang Tiegang , Li Jing , Li Zhanbin , Xu Guoce , Yang Rui
Published: September 2019

Nitrogen and phosphorus are essential for plant growth and are the primary limiting nutrient elements. The loss of nitrogen and phosphorus in agricultural systems can cause the eutrophication of natural water bodies. In this paper, a field simulated rainfall experiment was conducted in a typical small watershed of the Danjiang River to study the nutrient loss process of nitrogen and phosphorus in slope croplands subjected to different crops and tillage measures. The characteristics of the runoff process and nutrient migration of different slope treatments were studied, which were the bare-land (BL, as the control), peanut monoculture (PL), corn monoculture (CL), bare land (upper slope) mixed with peanut monoculture (lower slope) (BP), corn and peanut intercropping (TCP), corn and soybean intercropping (TCS), downslope ridge cultivation (BS) slope, and straw-mulched (SC), respectively. The results showed that the runoff of CL, SC, TCS, BS, BP, PL and TCP slope types were 93%, 75%, 51%, 39%, 28%, 12%, and 6% of the those of the bare land, respectively. The total nitrogen concentration in runoff on different slope types decreased in the order of BP > PL > BS > SC > TCP > BL > CL > TCS. The BL was characterized with the highest NRL-TN (the loss of total nitrogen per unit area), with the value of 1.188 kg/hm2, while those of the TCP is the smallest with the value of 0.073 kg/hm2. The total phosphorus concentration in runoff decreasd in the order of BS > BP > PL > BL > TCP > SC > CL > TCS. The PRL-TP (the loss of total phosphorus per unit area) of BL is the largest (0.016 kg/hm2), while those of TCP is the smallest (0.001 kg/hm2). These indicate that the loss of nitrogen is much higer than that of phosphorus. The loss of nitrogen in runoff is dominated by nitrate nitrogen, which accounts for 54.4%–78.9% of TN. Slope croplands in the water source area should adopt the tillage measures of TCP and PL.These measures can reduce 85% of the runoff of nitrogen and phosphorus compared to the bare land. The results may assist in agricultural non-point source pollution control and help promote improved management of the water environment in the Danjiang River’s water source area.
Effects of Water Removal Devices on Ambient Inorganic Air Pollutant Measurements
Authors: Kim Dong-June , Dinh Trieu-Vuong , Lee Joo-Yeon , Choi In-Young , Son Dong-Jin , Kim In-Young , Sunwoo Young , Kim Jo-Chun
Published: September 2019

Water vapor is a pivotal obstacle when measuring ambient air pollutants. The effects of water vapor removal devices which are called KPASS (Key-compound PASSer) and Cooler. On the measurement of O3, SO2, and CO at ambient levels were investigated. Concentrations of O3, SO2, and CO were 100 ppb, 150 ppb, and 25 ppm, respectively. The amount of water vapor varied at different relative humidity levels of 30%, 50%, and 80% when the temperature was 25 °C and the pressure was 1 atm. Water vapor removal efficiencies and recovery rates of target gases were also determined. The KPASS showed a better performance than the Cooler device, removing 93.6% of water vapor and the Cooler removing 59.2%. In terms of recovery, the KPASS showed a better recovery of target gases than the Cooler. Consequently, it is suggested that the KPASS should be an alternative way to remove water vapor when measuring O3, SO2, and CO.
The Association between Frailty Indicators and Blood-Based Biomarkers in Early-Old Community Dwellers of Thailand
Authors: Semmarath Warathit , Seesen Mathuramat , Yodkeeree Supachai , Sapbamrer Ratana , Ayood Pisittawoot , Malasao Rungnapa , Siviroj Penprapa , Limtrakul (Dejkriengkraikul) Pornngarm
Published: September 2019

Thailand has officially reached the status of an “aged society” and become the developing country with the 2nd largest proportion of senior citizens in Southeast Asia. A cross-sectional study of 526 early-old community dwellers was conducted for the Fried frailty phenotype assessment, This included five indicators: Weakness, slowness, physical activity, exhaustion, and weight loss. C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), insulin-like growth factor-1, and CD4+:CD8+ Ratio which serve as blood-based biomarkers of frailty. The prevalence of frailty and pre-frail in this population was found to be 15% and 69.6% respectively and was higher among women than men. Frail (n = 58) and non-frail (n = 60) participants were evaluated for the associations between the frail indicators and the blood-based biomarkers. Serum levels of IL-6 and CRP from frail group were significantly elevated when compared with the non-frail counterparts (p = 0.044 and 0.033, respectively), and were significantly associated with the frailty status with an Odd RatioIL-6 [OR] of 1.554-fold (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.229–1.966) and an ORCRP of 1.011-fold (95 CI, 1.006–1.016). Decreased hand-grip strength was the only frailty indicator that was significantly associated with both inflammatory biomarkers, (ORIL-6 of 1.470-fold and ORCRP of 1.008-fold). Our study is the first to assess the frailty status among the early-old population in Thailand. These findings will encourage general practitioners to combine frailty indicators and serum biomarkers as early detection tools for at-risk older adults to achieve the goal of healthy aging.
Relationship between Air Pollution and Urban Forms: Evidence from Prefecture-Level Cities of the Yangtze River Basin
Authors: He Lijie , Liu Ying , He Peipei , Zhou Hao
Published: September 2019

Urban forms, such as size, shape, density, compactness, and fragmentation, are associated with local air pollution concentrations. However, empirical analyses on how urban form improves or degrades urban air quality are still limited and inconclusive, especially for those rapidly expanding cities in developing countries. In this study, by using the improved STIRPAT (stochastic impacts by regression on population, affluence, and technology) model, the quantitative impact of urban form on near-surface PM2.5 and NO2 concentrations was identified in the 10 prefecture-level cities of the Yangtze River Basin (YRB) from 2000 to 2013. Trend analyses showed a significant increasing trend in both PM2.5 (9.69 × 10−4 µg·m−3·year−1) and NO2 (1.73 × 10−4 ppb·year−1) for the whole study period. Notably, a turning point of PM2.5 from increasing to decreasing trends occurred around 2007. In addition, both pollutants showed a spatial agglomeration. The STIRPAT model demonstrated that socioeconomic, transportation and urban form factors played an important role in alleviating the increase of PM2.5 and NO2. In particular, a 1% decrease in urban extent density (UED) significantly increased NO2 by 0.203%, but reduced PM2.5 by 0.033%. The proximity index (PI) measured as a city’s compactness was significantly negatively correlated with PM2.5 and NO2. Conversely, a significant positive relationship of PM2.5 and NO2 concentrations against the openness index (OI) was observed, an important variable for measuring a city’s fragmentation. In addition, the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) hypothesis between per capita GDP and PM2.5 concentration was confirmed but failed in NO2. Overall, this study encouraged a less fragmented and more compact urban form, which helped alleviate local air pollution concentrations by enhancing urban connectivity, reducing vehicle dependence, and facilitating the use of bicycles and walking.
MeCP2: A Critical Regulator of Chromatin in Neurodevelopment and Adult Brain Function
Authors: Gulmez Karaca Kubra , Brito David V.C. , Oliveira Ana M.M.
Published: September 2019

Methyl CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2) was first identified as a nuclear protein with a transcriptional repressor role that recognizes DNA methylation marks. MeCP2 has a well-established function in neurodevelopment, as evidenced by the severe neurological impairments characteristic of the Rett syndrome (RTT) pathology and the MeCP2 duplication syndrome (MDS), caused by loss or gain of MeCP2 function, respectively. Research aimed at the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of RTT and MDS has significantly advanced our understanding of MeCP2 functions in the nervous system. It has revealed, however, that MeCP2 has more varied and complex roles than previously thought. Here we review recent insights into the functions of MeCP2 in neurodevelopment and the less explored requirement for MeCP2 in adult brain function. We focus on the emerging view that MeCP2 is a global chromatin organizer. Finally, we discuss how the individual functions of MeCP2 in neurodevelopment and adulthood are linked to its role as a chromatin regulator.
The Histochemical Alterations of Mucin in Colorectal Carcinoma Quantified by Two Efficient Algorithms of Digital Image Analysis
Authors: Kasprzak Aldona , Seraszek-Jaros Agnieszka , Jagielska Joanna , Helak-Łapaj Celina , Siodła Elżbieta , Szmeja Jacek , Kaczmarek Elżbieta
Published: September 2019

The practical use of knowledge on the diagnostic-prognostic role of polysaccharide components of mucins in colorectal cancer (CRC) has been difficult, due to the number of histochemical (HC) reaction types, as well as lack of standard methods of computer-assisted analysis of tissue expression of these molecules. Using two algorithms of digital image analysis (by application of Image-Pro Premier and our originally designed program Filter HSV), we evaluated the expression of polysaccharides in tissue samples of CRC patients (n = 33), and fragments of normal colorectal tissue from the same patients (control) using periodic acid Schiff reaction (PAS) (neutral mucins) and alcian blue staining (AB) (acidic mucins). Our results indicate lower expression of the PAS+ and AB+ mucins in CRC, as compared to the control samples. The higher expression of PAS+ polysaccharides was detected in flat tumors than in protruded CRC, while higher AB+ mucins expression was a feature of mucinous CRC subtypes. Positive correlation between mutual PAS+ and AB+ expression, as well as correlations with glucose concentration (PAS+ mucins), and hemoglobin level (AB+ mucins) were observed exclusively in unchanged colorectal samples (control). Both algorithms of digital image analysis (smart segmentation and Filter HSV) work properly and can be used interchangeably in daily practice of pathologists, as useful tools of quantitative evaluation of HC reaction in both normal and cancerous tissues.
A Multi-Layered Study on Harmonic Oscillations in Mammalian Genomics and Proteomics
Authors: Genov Nikolai , Castellana Stefano , Scholkmann Felix , Capocefalo Daniele , Truglio Mauro , Rosati Jessica , Turco Elisa Maria , Biagini Tommaso , Carbone Annalucia , Mazza Tommaso , Relógio Angela , Mazzoccoli Gianluigi
Published: September 2019

Cellular, organ, and whole animal physiology show temporal variation predominantly featuring 24-h (circadian) periodicity. Time-course mRNA gene expression profiling in mouse liver showed two subsets of genes oscillating at the second (12-h) and third (8-h) harmonic of the prime (24-h) frequency. The aim of our study was to identify specific genomic, proteomic, and functional properties of ultradian and circadian subsets. We found hallmarks of the three oscillating gene subsets, including different (i) functional annotation, (ii) proteomic and electrochemical features, and (iii) transcription factor binding motifs in upstream regions of 8-h and 12-h oscillating genes that seemingly allow the link of the ultradian gene sets to a known circadian network. Our multifaceted bioinformatics analysis of circadian and ultradian genes suggests that the different rhythmicity of gene expression impacts physiological outcomes and may be related to transcriptional, translational and post-translational dynamics, as well as to phylogenetic and evolutionary components.
Roles of Extracellular HSPs as Biomarkers in Immune Surveillance and Immune Evasion
Authors: Taha Eman A. , Ono Kisho , Eguchi Takanori
Published: September 2019

Extracellular heat shock proteins (ex-HSPs) have been found in exosomes, oncosomes, membrane surfaces, as well as free HSP in cancer and various pathological conditions, also known as alarmins. Such ex-HSPs include HSP90 (α, β, Gp96, Trap1), HSP70, and large and small HSPs. Production of HSPs is coordinately induced by heat shock factor 1 (HSF1) and hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1), while matrix metalloproteinase 3 (MMP-3) and heterochromatin protein 1 are novel inducers of HSPs. Oncosomes released by tumor cells are a major aspect of the resistance-associated secretory phenotype (RASP) by which immune evasion can be established. The concepts of RASP are: (i) releases of ex-HSP and HSP-rich oncosomes are essential in RASP, by which molecular co-transfer of HSPs with oncogenic factors to recipient cells can promote cancer progression and resistance against stresses such as hypoxia, radiation, drugs, and immune systems; (ii) RASP of tumor cells can eject anticancer drugs, targeted therapeutics, and immune checkpoint inhibitors with oncosomes; (iii) cytotoxic lipids can be also released from tumor cells as RASP. ex-HSP and membrane-surface HSP (mHSP) play immunostimulatory roles recognized by CD91+ scavenger receptor expressed by endothelial cells-1 (SREC-1)+ Toll-like receptors (TLRs)+ antigen-presenting cells, leading to antigen cross-presentation and T cell cross-priming, as well as by CD94+ natural killer cells, leading to tumor cytolysis. On the other hand, ex-HSP/CD91 signaling in cancer cells promotes cancer progression. HSPs in body fluids are potential biomarkers detectable by liquid biopsies in cancers and tissue-damaged diseases. HSP-based vaccines, inhibitors, and RNAi therapeutics are also reviewed.
Specialist and Generalist Fungal Parasites Induce Distinct Biochemical Changes in the Mandible Muscles of Their Host
Authors: Zheng Shanshan , Loreto Raquel , Smith Philip , Patterson Andrew , Hughes David , Wang Liande
Published: September 2019

Some parasites have evolved the ability to adaptively manipulate host behavior. One notable example is the fungus Ophiocordyceps unilateralis sensu lato, which has evolved the ability to alter the behavior of ants in ways that enable fungal transmission and lifecycle completion. Because host mandibles are affected by the fungi, we focused on understanding changes in the metabolites of muscles during behavioral modification. We used High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Mass/Mass (HPLC-MS/MS) to detect the metabolite difference between controls and O. unilateralis-infected ants. There was a significant difference between the global metabolome of O. unilateralis-infected ants and healthy ants, while there was no significant difference between the Beauveria bassiana treatment ants group compared to the healthy ants. A total of 31 and 16 of metabolites were putatively identified from comparisons of healthy ants with O. unilateralis-infected ants and comparisons of B. bassiana with O. unilateralis-infected samples, respectively. This result indicates that the concentrations of sugars, purines, ergothioneine, and hypoxanthine were significantly increased in O. unilateralis-infected ants in comparison to healthy ants and B. bassiana-infected ants. This study provides a comprehensive metabolic approach for understanding the interactions, at the level of host muscles, between healthy ants and fungal parasites.
The Second Life of Methylarginines as Cardiovascular Targets
Authors: Jarzebska Natalia , Mangoni Arduino A. , Martens-Lobenhoffer Jens , Bode-Böger Stefanie M. , Rodionov Roman N.
Published: September 2019

Endogenous methylarginines were proposed as cardiovascular risk factors more than two decades ago, however, so far, this knowledge has not led to the development of novel therapeutic approaches. The initial studies were primarily focused on the endogenous inhibitors of nitric oxide synthases asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) and monomethylarginine (MMA) and the main enzyme regulating their clearance dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase 1 (DDAH1). To date, all the screens for DDAH1 activators performed with the purified recombinant DDAH1 enzyme have not yielded any promising hits, which is probably the main reason why interest towards this research field has started to fade. The relative contribution of the second DDAH isoenzyme DDAH2 towards ADMA and MMA clearance is still a matter of controversy. ADMA, MMA and symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) are also metabolized by alanine: glyoxylate aminotransferase 2 (AGXT2), however, in addition to methylarginines, this enzyme also has several cardiovascular protective substrates, so the net effect of possible therapeutic targeting of AGXT2 is currently unclear. Recent studies on regulation and functions of the enzymes metabolizing methylarginines have given a second life to this research direction. Our review discusses the latest discoveries and controversies in the field and proposes novel directions for targeting methylarginines in clinical settings.
Urinary Neuropilin-1: A Predictive Biomarker for Renal Outcome in Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Torres-Salido Maria Teresa , Sanchis Mireia , Solé Cristina , Moliné Teresa , Vidal Marta , Vidal Xavier , Solà Anna , Hotter Georgina , Ordi-Ros Josep , Cortés-Hernández Josefina
Published: September 2019

At present, Lupus Nephritis (LN) is still awaiting a biomarker to better monitor disease activity, guide clinical treatment, and predict a patient’s long-term outcome. In the last decade, novel biomarkers have been identified to monitor the disease, but none have been incorporated into clinical practice. The transmembrane receptor neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) is highly expressed by mesangial cells and its genetic deletion results in proteinuric disease and glomerulosclerosis. NRP-1 is increased in kidney biopsies of LN. In this work we were interested in determining whether urinary NRP-1 levels could be a biomarker of clinical response in LN. Our results show that patients with active LN have increased levels of urinary NRP-1. When patients were divided according to clinical response, responders displayed higher urinary and tissue NRP-1 levels at the time of renal biopsy. Areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve, comparing baseline creatinine, proteinuria, urinary NRP-1, and VEGFA protein levels, showed NRP-1 to be an independent predictor for clinical response. In addition, in vitro studies suggest that NRP-1could promote renal recovery through endothelial proliferation and migration, mesangial migration and local T cell cytotoxicity. Based on these results, NRP-1 may be used as an early prognostic biomarker in LN.
Lessons from One Fastidious Bacterium to Another: What Can We Learn about Liberibacter Species from Xylella fastidiosa
Authors: Kruse Angela , Fleites Laura A. , Heck Michelle
Published: September 2019

Huanglongbing is causing economic devastation to the citrus industry in Florida, and threatens the industry everywhere the bacterial pathogens in the Candidatus Liberibacter genus and their insect vectors are found. Bacteria in the genus cannot be cultured and no durable strategy is available for growers to control plant infection or pathogen transmission. However, scientists and grape growers were once in a comparable situation after the emergence of Pierce’s disease, which is caused by Xylella fastidiosa and spread by its hemipteran insect vector. Proactive quarantine and vector control measures coupled with interdisciplinary data-driven science established control of this devastating disease and pushed the frontiers of knowledge in the plant pathology and vector biology fields. Our review highlights the successful strategies used to understand and control X. fastidiosa and their potential applicability to the liberibacters associated with citrus greening, with a focus on the interactions between bacterial pathogen and insect vector. By placing the study of Candidatus Liberibacter spp. within the current and historical context of another fastidious emergent plant pathogen, future basic and applied research to develop control strategies can be prioritized.
Hemocyte Changes During Immune Melanization in Bombyx Mori Infected with Escherichia coli
Authors: Li Tian , Yan Dengfeng , Wang Xiaohui , Zhang Liang , Chen Ping
Published: September 2019

Hemolymph melanization is a conserved immune response in insects and other arthropods. However, the physiological process of the hemolymph system in the melanization response is hardly studied. Here, alterations of hemocytes in immune melanization were observed by Escherichia coli infection in Bombyx mori. Results first showed that there were cells aggregating into clusters. However, it vanished, and only part of clustered hemocytes were melanized during the period of intense immunity. The hemocyte numbers immediately decreased following an immune challenge, slowly increased to a peak, then reduced and finally returned to normalization. Granulocytes participated in cells aggregation at the early and later immune stage, while plasmatocytes were responsible for hemocytes agglomerate and melanization for the longest time, and more oenocytoids appeared at the peak stage of melanization. Moreover, hemocytes played a crucial role in resisting invasion of pathogens by agglomerate and melanization, and the circulatory system maintained higher hemocyte numbers and stronger antibacterial activity in fifth than fourth instar larvae after infection. In vitro immune melanization was most likely preferentially implemented in an independent process. These were the main characteristics reflecting the physiological process of hemolymph immune melanization, which provided an important foundation for further study of the complete mechanisms in the immunity of silkworm.
Synthesis of CuO/ZnO Nanocomposites and Their Application in Photodegradation of Toxic Textile Dye
Authors: Sakib Abdullah , Masum Shah , Hoinkis Jan , Islam Rafiqul , Molla Md.
Published: September 2019

CuO/ZnO composites are synthesized using a simple mechanochemical combustion method. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) are used to characterize the prepared oxides. X-ray diffraction reveals that the prepared CuO/ZnO exhibit a wurtzite ZnO crystal structure and the composites are composed of CuO and ZnO. The strong peaks of the Cu, Zn, and O elements are exhibited in the EDX spectrum. The FTIR spectra appear at around 3385 cm−1 and 1637 cm−1, caused by O–H stretching, and 400 cm−1 to 590 cm−1, ascribable to Zn–O stretching. The photocatalytic performances of CuO/ZnO nanocomposites are investigated for the degradation of methylene blue (MB) aqueous solution in direct solar irradiation. The degradation value of MB with 5 wt % CuO/ZnO is measured to be 98%, after 2 h of solar irradiation. The reactive •O2− and •OH radicals play important roles in the photodegradation of MB. Mineralization of MB is around 91% under sunlight irradiation within 7 h. The photodegradation treatment for the textile wastewater using sunlight is an easy technique—simply handled, and economical. Therefore, the solar photodegradation technique may be a very effective method for the treatment of wastewater instead of photodegradation with the artificial and expensive Hg-Xe lamp.
A Survey on Optical Technologies for IoT, Smart Industry, and Smart Infrastructures
Authors: Aleksic Slavisa
Published: September 2019

In the Internet of Things (IoT), a huge number of sensors, actuators and other equipment for data acquisition and processing will be interconnected by means of an omnipresent communication network able to efficiently support heterogeneous transmission technologies and applications. On the one hand, advanced optical communication systems, which already play a significant role in modern networks, are currently evolving to meet very high requirements of modern applications. On the other hand, there are already many ways to utilize optical components and effects for building precise, efficient, and reliable sensors. Thus, optical technologies have the potential to greatly help in realizing future smart infrastructures and systems. This paper gives an overview of currently available and emerging optical technologies for sensing and communication applications and reviews their possible application in the context of the IoT for realizing smart systems and infrastructures.
Flooding and Land Use Change in Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: Kelley Lisa C. , Prabowo Agung
Published: September 2019

Flooding is a routine occurrence throughout much of the monsoonal tropics. Despite well-developed repertoires of response, agrarian societies have been ‘double exposed’ to intensifying climate change and agro-industrialization over the past several decades, often in ways that alter both the regularity of flood events and individual and community capacity for response. This paper engages these tensions by exploring everyday experiences of and responses to extreme flood events in a case study village in Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia, which has also been the site of corporate oil palm development since 2010. We first reconstruct histories of extreme flood events along the Konawe’eha River using oral histories and satellite imagery, describing the role of these events in straining the terms of daily production and reproduction. We then outline the ways smallholder agriculturalists are responding to flood events through alterations in their land use strategies, including through the sale or leasing of flood-prone lands, the relocation of riverine vegetable production to hillside locations, and adoption of new cropping choices and management practices. We highlight the role of such responses as a driver of ongoing land use change, potentially in ways that increase systemic vulnerability to floods moving forward.
Optimal Design of pH-neutral Geopolymer Foams for Their Use in Ecological Plant Cultivation Systems
Authors: Szechyńska-Hebda Magdalena , Marczyk Joanna , Ziejewska Celina , Hordyńska Natalia , Mikuła Janusz , Hebda Marek
Published: September 2019

We have calculated that with the world population projected to increase from 7.5 billion in 2017 to 9.8 in 2050, the next generation (within 33 years) will produce 12,000–13,000 Mt of plastic, and that the yearly consumption will reach 37–40 kilos of plastic per person worldwide. One of the branches of the plastics industry is the production of plastics for agriculture e.g., seed trays and pots. In this paper, novel metakaolin-based geopolymer composites reinforced with cellulosic fibres are presented as an alternative to plastic pots. Materials can be dedicated to agricultural applications, provided they have neutral properties, however, geopolymer paste and its final products have high pH. Therefore, a two-step protocol of neutralisation of the geopolymer foam pots was optimised and implemented. The strength of the geopolymer samples was lower when foams were neutralised. The reinforcement of geopolymers with cellulose clearly prevented the reduction of mechanical properties after neutralisation, which was correlated with the lower volume of pores in the foam and with the cellulose chemical properties. Both, neutralisation and reinforcement with cellulose can also eliminate an efflorescence. Significantly increased plant growth was found in geopolymer pots in comparison to plastic pots. The cellulose in geopolymers resulted in better adsorption and slower desorption of minerals during fertilisation. This effect could also be associated with a lower number of large pores in the presence of cellulose fibres in pots, and thus more stable pore filling and better protection of internal surface interactions.
Anodization of a Medical-Grade Ti-6Al-7Nb Alloy in a Ca(H2PO2)2-Hydroxyapatite Suspension
Authors: Kazek-Kęsik Alicja , Kalemba-Rec Izabela , Simka Wojciech
Published: September 2019

The electrochemical parameters used for surface treatments should be individually determined for each titanium alloy. In this paper, the parameters for the anodization of a medical-grade Ti-6Al-7Nb alloy in hydroxyapatite suspensions were determined. It was found that formation of a favorable porous oxide layer occurred for the plasma electrolytic oxidation process in a Ca(H2PO2)2 solution with 150 g/dm3 hydroxyapatite particles at 350 V and 450 V. The differences in the morphology, chemical and phase composition caused variability in the average surface roughness (up 4.25 μm) and contact angle (strongly hydrophilic) values. Incorporation of the hydroxyapatite ceramic particles into formed TiO2 layer also influenced the layer thickness and adhesion of the layers to the substrate. The oxide layers formed on the Ti-6Al-7Nb alloy were between 5.19 and 31.4 μm in thickness with an average range of approximately 8–15 μm. The formation of a ceramic layer under controlled electrochemical parameters allows the design of a bioactive surface of implants for bone tissue. The hydroxyapatite particles may promote the osseointegration process. Thus, in this study, the formation of ceramic composites on medical-grade Ti surfaces is presented and discussed.
Growth Mechanisms and the Effects of Deposition Parameters on the Structure and Properties of High Entropy Film by Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Liang Yanxia , Wang Peipei , Wang Yufei , Dai Yijia , Hu Zhaoyi , Tranca Denis E. , Hristu Radu , Stanciu Stefan G. , Toma Antonela , Stanciu George A. , Wang Xingjun , Fu Engang
Published: September 2019

Despite intense research on high entropy films, the mechanism of film growth and the influence of key factors remain incompletely understood. In this study, high entropy films consisting of five elements (FeCoNiCrAl) with columnar and nanometer-scale grains were prepared by magnetron sputtering. The high entropy film growth mechanism, including the formation of the amorphous domain, equiaxial nanocrystalline structure and columnar crystal was clarified by analyzing the microstructure in detail. Besides, the impacts of the important deposition parameters including the substrate temperature, the powder loaded in the target, and the crystal orientation of the substrate on the grain size and morphology, phase structure, crystallinity and elemental uniformity were revealed. The mechanical properties of high entropy films with various microstructure features were investigated by nanoindentation. With the optimized grain size and microstructure, the film deposited at 350 °C using a power of 100 W exhibits the highest hardness of 11.09 GPa. Our findings not only help understanding the mechanisms during the high entropy film deposition, but also provide guidance in manufacturing other novel high entropy films.