bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Platelet Counting: Ugly Traps and Good Advice. Proposals from the French-Speaking Cellular Hematology Group (GFHC)
Authors: Baccini Véronique , Geneviève Franck , Jacqmin Hugues , Chatelain Bernard , Girard Sandrine , Wuilleme Soraya , Vedrenne Aurélie , Guiheneuf Eric , Toussaint-Hacquard Marie , Everaere Fanny , Soulard Michel , Lesesve Jean-François , Bardet Valérie
Published: March 2020

Despite the ongoing development of automated hematology analyzers to optimize complete blood count results, platelet count still suffers from pre-analytical or analytical pitfalls, including EDTA-induced pseudothrombocytopenia. Although most of these interferences are widely known, laboratory practices remain highly heterogeneous. In order to harmonize and standardize cellular hematology practices, the French-speaking Cellular Hematology Group (GFHC) wants to focus on interferences that could affect the platelet count and to detail the verification steps with minimal recommendations, taking into account the different technologies employed nowadays. The conclusions of the GFHC presented here met with a "strong professional agreement" and are explained with their rationale to define the course of actions, in case thrombocytopenia or thrombocytosis is detected. They are proposed as minimum recommendations to be used by each specialist in laboratory medicine who remains free to use more restrictive guidelines based on the patient’s condition.
Cervical Myelopathy in Patients Suffering from Rheumatoid Arthritis—A Case Series of 9 Patients and A Review of the Literature
Authors: Janssen Insa , Nouri Aria , Tessitore Enrico , Meyer Bernhard
Published: March 2020

Cervical myelopathy occurs in approximately 2.5% of patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and is associated with notable morbidity and mortality. However, the surgical management of patients affected by cervical involvement in the setting of RA remains challenging and not well studied. To address this, we conducted a retrospective analysis of our clinical database between May 2007 and April 2017, and report on nine patients suffering from cervical myelopathy due to RA. We included patients treated surgically for cervical myelopathy on the basis of diagnosed RA. Clinical findings, treatment and outcome were assessed and reported. In addition, we conducted a narrative review of the literature. Four patients were male. Mean age was 64.8 ± 20.5 years. Underlying cervical pathology was anterior atlantoaxial instability (AAI) associated with retrodental pannus in four cases, anterior atlantoaxial subluxation (AAS) in two cases and basilar invagination in three cases. All patients received surgical treatment via posterior fixation, and in addition two of these cases were combined with a transnasal approach. Preoperative modified Japanese orthopaedic association scale (mJOA) improved from 12 ± 2.4 to 14.6 ± 1.89 at a mean follow-up at 18.8 ± 23.3 months (range 3–60 months) in five patients. In four patients, no follow up was available, and the mJOA of these patients at time of discharge was stable compared to the preoperative score. One patient died two days after surgery, where a pulmonary embolism was assumed to be the cause of mortality, and one patient sustained a temporary worsening of his neurological deficit postoperatively. Surgery is generally an effective treatment method in patients with inflammatory arthropathies of the cervical spine. Given the nature of the RA and potential instability, fixation in addition to cord decompression is generally required.
The Influence of Vaginal Native Tissues Pelvic Floor Reconstructive Surgery in Patients with Symptomatic Pelvic Organ Prolapse on Preexisting Storage Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS)
Authors: Rechberger Ewa , Skorupska Katarzyna , Rechberger Tomasz , Wojtaś Małgorzata , Miotła Paweł , Kulik-Rechberger Beata , Wróbel Andrzej
Published: March 2020

The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of vaginal native tissue repair (VNTR) on preexisting Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS) in women with symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse (POP). Two hundred patients who underwent VNTR for symptomatic POP from January 2018 to February 2019 were followed up for 6 months. All patients underwent VNTR, but in the posterior compartment, the rectovaginal fascia was reconnected to the uterosacral ligaments and additionally sutured to the iliococcygeus fascia and muscle. To assess the severity and change in storage phase LUTS before and after surgery, all participants were asked to complete 3 questionnaires: the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire- Short Form (ICIQ-SF), Urogenital Distress Inventory-6 (UDI-6), and Incontinence Impact Questionnaire-7 (IIQ-7). The data were assessed with Statistica package version 12.0, using Kalmogorow–Smirnoff, W Shapiro–Wilk tests. Furthermore, one-way analysis of variance was applied with post-hoc Tukey test. The study results indicate that the majority of patients with advanced POP suffered from various LUTS. Among storage symptoms, the occurrence of urinary incontinence (UI) and urgency decreased significantly after surgery. Moreover, ICIQ-SF, UDI-6, and IIQ-7 results showed statistically significant improvement in the impact of UI on the quality of life (QoL) in the vast majority of patients after surgery. VNTR is an effective way to treat not only anatomical, but also functional problems in such patients.
Accuracy Assessment of Molded, Patient-Specific Polymethylmethacrylate Craniofacial Implants Compared to Their 3D Printed Originals
Authors: Chamo Dave , Msallem Bilal , Sharma Neha , Aghlmandi Soheila , Kunz Christoph , Thieringer Florian M.
Published: March 2020

The use of patient-specific implants (PSIs) in craniofacial surgery is often limited due to a lack of expertise and/or production costs. Therefore, a simple and cost-efficient template-based fabrication workflow has been developed to overcome these disadvantages. The aim of this study is to assess the accuracy of PSIs made from their original templates. For a representative cranial defect (CRD) and a temporo-orbital defect (TOD), ten PSIs were made from polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) using computer-aided design (CAD) and three-dimensional (3D) printing technology. These customized implants were measured and compared with their original 3D printed templates. The implants for the CRD revealed a root mean square (RMS) value ranging from 1.128 to 0.469 mm with a median RMS (Q1 to Q3) of 0.574 (0.528 to 0.701) mm. Those for the TOD revealed an RMS value ranging from 1.079 to 0.630 mm with a median RMS (Q1 to Q3) of 0.843 (0.635 to 0.943) mm. This study demonstrates that a highly precise duplication of PSIs can be achieved using this template-molding workflow. Thus, virtually planned implants can be accurately transferred into haptic PSIs. This workflow appears to offer a sophisticated solution for craniofacial reconstruction and continues to prove itself in daily clinical practice.
Correlates of Normal and Abnormal General Movements in Infancy and Long-Term Neurodevelopment of Preterm Infants: Insights from Functional Connectivity Studies at Term Equivalence
Authors: Peyton Colleen , Einspieler Christa , Fjørtoft Toril , Adde Lars , Schreiber Michael D. , Drobyshevsky Alexander , Marks Jeremy D.
Published: March 2020

Preterm infants born before 32 weeks gestation have increased risks for neurodevelopmental impairment at two years of age. How brain function differs between preterm infants with normal or impaired development is unknown. However, abnormal spontaneous motor behavior at 12–15 weeks post-term age is associated with neurodevelopmental impairment. We imaged brain blood oxygen level-dependent signals at term-equivalent age in 62 infants born at <32 weeks gestation and explored whether resting state functional connectivity (rsFC) differed with performances on the General Movement Assessment (GMA) at 12–15 weeks, and Bayley III scores at two years of corrected age. Infants with aberrant general movements exhibited decreased rsFC between the basal ganglia and regions in parietal and frontotemporal lobes. Infants with normal Bayley III cognitive scores exhibited increased rsFC between the basal ganglia and association cortices in parietal and occipital lobes compared with cognitively impaired children. Infants with normal motor scores exhibited increased rsFC between the basal ganglia and visual cortices, compared with children with motor impairment. Thus, the presence of abnormal general movements is associated with region-specific differences in rsFC at term. The association of abnormal long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes with decreased rsFC between basal ganglia and sub-score specific cortical regions may provide biomarkers of neurodevelopmental trajectory and outcome.
A Case-Control Study of Salivary Redox Homeostasis in Hypertensive Children. Can Salivary Uric Acid be a Marker of Hypertension?
Authors: Maciejczyk Mateusz , Taranta-Janusz Katarzyna , Wasilewska Anna , Kossakowska Agnieszka , Zalewska Anna
Published: March 2020

Oxidative stress plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of hypertension; however, there are no data on salivary redox homeostasis and salivary gland function in children with hypertension. A total of 53 children with hypertension and age- and sex-matched controls were classified for the study. The antioxidant barrier and oxidative/nitrosative stress were evaluated in non-stimulated (NWS) and stimulated (SWS) whole saliva, plasma, and erythrocytes, with Student’s t-test and Mann–Whitney U-test used for statistical analysis. We demonstrated that the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and peroxidase were significantly higher in NWS, SWS, and erythrocytes of children with hypertension, similar to oxidative damage in proteins (advanced glycation end products) and lipids (malondialdehyde) as well as nitrosative stress markers (peroxynitrite and nitrotyrosine). The level of uric acid (UA) was significantly higher in NWS, SWS, and plasma of children with hypertension. UA concentration in SWS correlated positively with systolic and diastolic blood pressure and UA content in plasma. This parameter differentiates children with hypertension from healthy controls (AUC = 0.98) with a high degree of sensitivity (94%) and specificity (94%). Stimulated salivary flow was significantly lower in the hypertension group, similar to total protein content and salivary amylase activity. In summary, childhood hypertension is associated with hyposalivation as well as disturbances in antioxidant defense and enhanced oxidative/nitrosative damage both in the plasma/erythrocytes as well as saliva. Salivary UA may be a potential biomarker of hypertension in children.
Wall-Resolved LES Modeling of a Wind Turbine Airfoil at Different Angles of Attack
Authors: Solís-Gallego Irene , Argüelles Díaz Katia María , Fernández Oro Jesús Manuel , Velarde-Suárez Sandra
Published: March 2020

Noise has arisen as one of the main restrictions for the deployment of wind turbines in urban environments or in sensitive ecosystems like oceans for offshore and coastal applications. An LES model, adequately planned and resolved, is useful to describe the noise generation mechanisms in wind turbine airfoils. In this work, a wall-resolved LES model of the turbulent flow around a typical wind turbine airfoil is presented and described in detail. The numerical results obtained have been validated with hot wire measurements in a wind tunnel. The description of the boundary layer over the airfoil provides an insight into the main noise generation mechanism, which is known to be the scattering of the vortical disturbances in the boundary layer into acoustic waves at the airfoil trailing edge. In the present case, 2D wave instabilities are observed in both suction and pressure sides, but these perturbations are diffused into a turbulent boundary layer prior to the airfoil trailing edge, so tonal noise components are not expected in the far-field noise propagation. The results obtained can be used as input data for the prediction of noise propagation to the far-field using a hybrid aeroacoustic model.
CEO Diversity, Political Influences, and CEO Turnover in Unstable Environments: The Romanian Case
Authors: Dragotă Ingrid-Mihaela , Curmei-Semenescu Andreea , Moscu Raluca
Published: March 2020

This work expands the literature on a less studied topic, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) turnover in post-communist economies, analyzed during an unstable and ambiguous economic and financial environment. For the period 2005–2010, the results indicate the political inference in CEO turnover decision for the Romanian listed companies. In this period, with great turmoil in the economy determined by the financial crisis of 2008, we also find that CEO gender helps to explain the probability of changing the CEO. Moreover, this paper empirically tests if the financial and corporate governance determinants that are validated in the existing literature work for the Romanian listed companies. We reinforce that CEO turnover decision is negatively related to accounting-based performance. We find evidence of the “voting with their feet” behavior of institutional investors, and of the lack of Board of Directors monitoring. The CEO–Chairman duality and the controlling power of the largest shareholder act as entrenchment mechanisms.
Sensorless Control of Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machine with Magnetic Saliency Tracking Based on Voltage Signal Injection
Authors: Ilioudis Vasilios C.
Published: March 2020

This paper presents a sensorless control method of a permanent magnet synchronous machine (PMSM) with magnetic saliency estimation. This is based on a high-frequency injection (HFI) technique applied on the modified PMSM model in the γδ reference frame. Except for sensorless control, an emphasis is placed on the magnetic saliency estimation to indicate a practical approach in tracking PMSM inductance variations. The magnetic saliency is determined using calculations embedded in the speed and position algorithm through current measurements. A notable characteristic of the modified PMSM model is that the corresponding rotor flux integrates both permanent magnet and saliency term fluxes. In applying a HFI technique for sensorless control, the structure of the PMSM flux model is formatted accordingly. A novel inductance matrix is derived that is completely compatible with the HFI methodology, since its elements include terms of angle error differential and average inductances. In addition, a sliding mode observer (SMO) is designed to estimate the speed and angle of rotor flux based on equivalent control applying a smooth function of the angle error instead of a sign one to reduce the chattering phenomenon. The control strategy is principally based on the adequacy of the proposed modified model and on the appropriateness of the SMO structure to successfully track the rotor flux position with the required stability and accuracy. Simulation results demonstrate the performance of the PMSM sensorless control verifying the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm to detect PMSM saliency, speed and position in steady state and transient modes successfully.
Evaluation of the Direct Economic Cost per Eradication Treatment Regimen against Helicobacter pylori Infection in Greece: Do National Health Policy-Makers Need to Care?
Authors: Liatsos Christos , Papaefthymiou Apostolis , Kyriakos Nikolaos , Giakoumis Marios , Kountouras Jannis , Galanopoulos Michail , Apostolopoulos Periklis , Georgopoulos Sotirios D. , Mavrogiannis Christos , Exadaktylos Aristomenis K. , Srivastava David Shiva , Rokkas Theodore , Doulberis Michael
Published: March 2020

Helicobacter pylori (Hp) management has undoubtedly resulted in a notable economic burden on healthcare systems globally, including Greece. Its cost has never been estimated so far, especially during the recent 10-year unprecedented financial crisis. Direct medical and procedural costs for one attempt “outpatient” Hp eradication treatment were estimated as the following: (I) first-line regimens: 10 and 14 days standard triple, 10 and 14 days sequential, 10 and 14 days concomitant non-bismuth quadruple, 14 days hybrid, (II) second-line salvage regimens: 10 and 14 days levofloxacin-containing triple regimens. Treatment costs using prototypes and/or generic drugs were calculated. Drug prices were collected and confirmed from two official online medical databases including all medicines approved by the Greek National Organization for Medicines. Regimens based on generics were more affordable than prototypes and those including pantoprazole yielded the lowest prices (mean: 27.84 €). Paradoxically, 10-day concomitant and 14-day hybrid regimens (currently providing good (90–94%) first-line eradication rates in Greece) cost the same (mean: 34.76 €). The expenditures for Hp eradication treatment regimens were estimated thoroughly for the first time in Greece. These data should be taken into account by Public Health policymakers both in Greece and the European Union, aiming for a better and less expensive therapeutic approach.
Droplet Formation and Dripping Behavior during the Electroslag Remelting Process with Two Series-Connected Electrodes
Authors: Tong Wenjie , Li Wanming , Zang Ximin , Li Huabing , Jiang Zhouhua , Han Yu
Published: March 2020

The formation and dripping behavior of droplets in the process of the electroslag remelting with two series-connected electrodes (TSCE-ESR) has an important influence on the optimization of power supply parameters and the purity of the electroslag ingot. In this article, through numerical simulation based on the VOF (volume of fluid) model, combined with the transparent experimental device for physical simulation, the mechanism of metal droplet formation and the effect of the filling rate on its droplet behavior were studied. The results showed that the proximity effect, instead of the skin effect, is a major factor influencing droplet formation in TSCE-ESR process. The proximity effect makes the region inside the two electrode tip melt first, and the molten steel converges at the electrode tips to form a droplet source. The process of droplet formation and dropping can be divided into three stages: formation of molten layer, droplet stretching and necking, and detachment. In the stage of droplet stretching and necking, the increase in the contact area between the droplet and the slag and the instantaneous increase of the current provide good thermodynamic and dynamic conditions for the removal of non-metallic inclusions. After the droplet drops into the slag pool, it promotes the flow of slag and improves the heat and mass transfer efficiency of the slag/metal interface. The relatively large filling rate can form smaller and dispersed droplets, which improves the refining effect. At the same time, the increase of the filling rate can improve the input power and the electrode remelting rate.
Microstructures and Tribological Properties of TiC Reinforced FeCoNiCuAl High-Entropy Alloy at Normal and Elevated Temperature
Authors: Zhu Tie , Wu Hong , Zhou Rui , Zhang Ningyi , Yin Yong , Liang Luxin , Liu Yong , Li Jia , Shan Quan , Li Qingxiang , Huang Weidong
Published: March 2020

Recent studies have suggested that high-entropy alloys (HEAs) possess high fracture toughness, good wear resistance, and excellent high-temperature mechanical properties. In order to further improve their properties, a batch of TiC-reinforced FeCoNiCuAl HEA composites were fabricated by mechanical alloying and spark plasma sintering. X-ray diffractometry analysis of the TiC-reinforced HEA composites, combined with scanning electron microscopy imaging, indicated that TiC particles were uniformly distributed in the face-centered cubic and body-centered cubic phases. The room temperature hardness of the FeCoNiCuAl HEA was increased from 467 to 768 HV with the addition of TiC, owing to precipitation strengthening and fine grain strengthening effects. As the TiC content increased, the friction coefficient of the FeCoNiCuAl HEA first increased and then decreased at room temperature, due to the transition of the wear mechanism from adhesive to abrasive behavior. At higher temperature, the friction coefficient of the FeCoNiCuAl HEA monotonously reduced, corresponding well with the transition from adhesive wear to oxidative wear.
Springback Reduction of L-Shaped Part Using Magnetic Pulse Forming
Authors: Cui Xiaohui , Xiao Ang , Du Zhihao , Yan Ziqin , Yu Hailiang
Published: March 2020

This study proposes an electromagnetic-assisted stamping (EMAS) method with magnetic-force loading at the sheet end in order to control the springback phenomenon. The new method does not change the structure of the mold and does not generate a magnetic force at the sheet corner compared to traditional EMAS. Thus, the new approach could greatly extend the mold lifespan and could be readily adopted in commercial production environments. The effects of technological parameters, such as the distance between the blank holder and die, discharge voltage, and sheet thickness on the springback phenomenon were analyzed. Our results suggest that tangential stress and elastic strain energy both decrease with the increase of discharge voltage. The simulation method accurately predicted the deformation of the sheet during the quasi-static stamping and dynamic magnetic forming processes. The simulation and experimental results both show that as the discharge voltage increases, the bent angle after springback decreases.
Meal Patterns and Changes in Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Children: A Longitudinal Analysis
Authors: Shang Xianwen , Li Yanping , Xu Haiquan , Zhang Qian , Liu Ailing , Du Songming , Ma Guansheng
Published: March 2020

We examined whether energy and macronutrient intake from different meals was associated with changes in cardiometabolic risk (CMR) factors in children. CMR score (CMRS) was computed by summing Z-scores of waist circumference, the average of systolic and diastolic blood pressure, fasting glucose, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (multiplying by −1), and triglycerides. We included 5517 children aged 6–13 years from six major cities in China. Five meal patterns were identified according to energy intake: balanced, breakfast dominant, lunch dominant, dinner dominant, and snack dominant patterns. These patterns were not significantly associated with changes in CMR factors. Carbohydrate intake (% energy) at lunch was positively associated with the change in CMRS (beta coefficient (95% CI): (0.777 (0.509, 1.046) in quintile 5 versus quintile 1). A positive association between carbohydrate intake at dinner and change in CMRS was observed. High protein intake at both lunch and dinner was associated with a favorable change in CMRS. Moderate fat intake at lunch was associated with a lower increase in CMRS. Meal patterns driven by energy were not significantly associated with CMR factors; however, a low carbohydrate-high protein-moderate fat lunch and low carbohydrate-high protein dinner were associated with favorable changes in CMRS in children.
Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in 25-Hydroxyvitamin D3 1-Alpha-Hydroxylase (CYP27B1) Gene: The Risk of Malignant Tumors and Other Chronic Diseases
Authors: Latacz Maria , Snarska Jadwiga , Kostyra Elżbieta , Fiedorowicz Ewa , Savelkoul Huub F. J. , Grzybowski Roman , Cieślińska Anna
Published: March 2020

Vitamin D is widely known for its roles in the promotion of apoptosis and differentiation, with simultaneous inhibition of proliferation, inflammation, angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis. Modern literature lacks complete information on polymorphisms in CYP27B1, the only enzyme capable of vitamin D activation. This review presents gathered data that relate to genetic variants in CYP27B1 gene in correlation to multiple diseases, mostly concerning colorectal, prostate, breast, lung, and pancreatic cancers, as well as on other pathologies, such as non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, oral lichen planus, or multiple sclerosis.
Reversal of Prediabetes in Saudi Adults: Results from an 18 Month Lifestyle Intervention
Authors: Amer Osama E. , Sabico Shaun , Alfawaz Hanan A. , Aljohani Naji , Hussain Syed Danish , Alnaami Abdullah M. , Wani Kaiser , Al-Daghri Nasser M.
Published: March 2020

Aim: This 18 month intervention study aims to determine the efficacy of a lifestyle modification program on prediabetes reversal among Saudi adults. Methods: An 18 month randomized, multicenter trial was conducted among Saudis with prediabetes aged 25–60 recruited from King Salman Hospital and primary care centers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. A total of 180 consenting individuals were randomized (1:1) to receive either intensive lifestyle intervention (ILIG) or guidance (control group, CG). ILIG was provided with a personalized lifestyle counseling by nutritionists every 3 months to improve diet and exercise behaviors. CG was given booklets containing information on prediabetes and its prevention. Data from lifestyle assessments and laboratory measurements were analyzed at baseline and every 6 months. The primary outcome was the reversal rate of prediabetes. Results: 158 participants were analyzed (CG:85, ILIG:73) at the 12 month follow-up and 28 participants (CG:11 and ILIG:17) completed the entire 18 month study. Post-intervention, the cumulative incidence of prediabetes reversal in the ILIG was 38 participants (52.1%) which was significantly higher than CG with 26 participants (30.6%) (p = 0.02). Conclusion: A tailored lifestyle intervention is effective in reversing prediabetes, at least for a year, among Arab adults with prediabetes. The challenge of sustaining interest in adopting lifestyle changes for a longer duration should be addressed in this population.
Second Version of a Mini-Survey to Evaluate Food Intake Quality (Mini-ECCA v.2): Reproducibility and Ability to Identify Dietary Patterns in University Students
Authors: Bernal-Orozco María Fernanda , Salmeron-Curiel Patricia Belen , Prado-Arriaga Ruth Jackelyne , Orozco-Gutiérrez Jaime Fernando , Badillo-Camacho Nayeli , Márquez-Sandoval Fabiola , Altamirano-Martínez Martha Betzaida , González-Gómez Montserrat , Gutiérrez-González Porfirio , Vizmanos Barbara , Macedo-Ojeda Gabriela
Published: March 2020

Evaluation of food intake quality using validated tools makes it possible to give individuals or populations recommendations for improving their diet. This study’s objective was to evaluate the reproducibility and ability to identify dietary patterns of the second version of the Mini Food Intake Quality Survey (Mini-ECCA v.2). The survey was administered using a remote voting system on two occasions with four-week intervals between administrations to 276 health science students (average age = 20.1 ± 3.1 years; 68% women). We then performed a per-question weighted kappa calculation, a cluster analysis, an ANOVA test by questionnaire item and between identified clusters, and a discriminant analysis. Moderate to excellent agreement was observed (weighted κ = 0.422–0.662). The cluster analysis identified three groups, and the discriminant analysis obtained three classification functions (85.9% of cases were correctly classified): group 1 (19.9%) was characterized by higher intake of water, vegetables, fruit, fats, oilseeds/avocado, meat and legumes (healthy food intake); group 2 (47.1%) frequently consumed both fish and unhealthy fats (habits in need of improvement); group 3 (33%) frequently consumed sweetened beverages, foods not prepared at home, processed foods, refined cereals and alcohol (unhealthy food intake). In conclusion, the Mini-ECCA v.2 has moderate to excellent agreement, and it is able to identify dietary patterns in university students.
On the Impact of Subaperture Sampling for Multispectral Scalar Field Measurements
Authors: Clifford Christopher J. , Thurow Brian S.
Published: March 2020

The novel 3D imaging and reconstruction capabilities of plenoptic cameras are extended for use with continuous scalar fields relevant to reacting flows. This work leverages the abundance of perspective views in a plenoptic camera with the insertion of multiple filters at the aperture plane. The aperture is divided into seven regions using off-the-shelf components, enabling the simultaneous capture of up to seven different user-selected spectra with minimal detriment to reconstruction quality. Since the accuracy of reconstructed features is known to scale with the available angular information, several filter configurations are proposed to maintain the maximum parallax. Three phantoms inspired by jet plumes are simulated onto an array of plenoptic cameras and reconstructed using ASART+TV with a variety of filter configurations. Some systematic challenges related to the non-uniform distribution of views are observed and discussed. Increasing the number of simultaneously acquired spectra is shown to incur a small detriment to the accuracy of reconstruction, but the overall loss in quality is significantly less than the gain in spectral information.
Formulation and In-Vitro Characterization of Chitosan-Nanoparticles Loaded with the Iron Chelator Deferoxamine Mesylate (DFO)
Authors: Lazaridou Maria , Christodoulou Evi , Nerantzaki Maria , Kostoglou Margaritis , Lambropoulou Dimitra , Katsarou Angeliki , Pantopoulos Kostas , Bikiaris Dimitrios
Published: March 2020

The objective of this study was to develop chitosan (CS) nanoparticles (NPs) loaded with deferoxamine mesylate (DFO) for slow release of this iron-chelating drug. Drug nanoencapsulation was performed via ionic gelation of chitosan using sodium tripolyphosphate (TPP) as cross-linker. Nanoparticles with a size ranging between 150 and 400 nm were prepared for neat CS/TPP with a 2/1 molar ratio while their yield was directly dependent on the applied stirring rate during the preparation process. DFO at different content (20, 45 and 75 wt %) was encapsulated into these nanoparticles. We found that drug loading correlates with increasing DFO content while the entrapment efficiency has an opposite behavior due to the high solubility of DFO. Hydrogen-bonding between amino and hydroxyl groups of DFO with reactive groups of CS were detected using FT-IR spectroscopy while X-ray diffraction revealed that DFO was entrapped in amorphous form in the CS nanoparticles. DFO release is directly dependent on the content of loaded drug, while model analysis revealed that the release mechanism of DFO for the CS/TPP nanoparticles is by diffusion. Treatment of murine RAW 264.7 macrophages with nanoencapsulated DFO promoted an increased expression of transferrin receptor 1 (TfR1) mRNA, a typical homeostatic response to iron deficiency. These data provide preliminary evidence for release of pharmacologically active DFO from the chitosan nanoparticles.
3D Printing of Pharmaceuticals and Drug Delivery Devices
Authors: Mathew Essyrose , Pitzanti Giulia , Larrañeta Eneko , Lamprou Dimitrios A.
Published: March 2020

The process of 3D printing (3DP) was patented in 1986; however, the research in the field of 3DP did not become popular until the last decade. There has been an increasing research into the areas of 3DP for medical applications for fabricating prosthetics, bioprinting and pharmaceutics. This novel method allows the manufacture of dosage forms on demand, with modifications in the geometry and size resulting in changes to the release and dosage behaviour of the product. 3DP will allow wider adoption of personalised medicine due to the diversity and simplicity to change the design and dosage of the products, allowing the devices to be designed specific to the individual with the ability to alternate the drugs added to the product. Personalisation also has the potential to decrease the common side effects associated with generic dosage forms. This Special Issue Editorial outlines the current innovative research surrounding the topic of 3DP, focusing on bioprinting and various types of 3DP on applications for drug delivery as well advantages and future directions in this field of research.
Preparation, Characterization, and In Vivo Pharmacokinetic Evaluation of Polyvinyl Alcohol and Polyvinyl Pyrrolidone Blended Hydrogels for Transdermal Delivery of Donepezil HCl
Authors: Bashyal Santosh , Shin Chang Yell , Hyun Sang Min , Jang Sun Woo , Lee Sangkil
Published: March 2020

Transdermal delivery systems are emerging platforms for the delivery of donepezil hydrochloride (DH) for treating Alzheimer’s disease. The primary aim of this study was to develop polyvinyl alcohol and polyvinyl pyrrolidone blended hydrogels and to evaluate their feasibility for delivering DH via a transdermal route. Physicochemical properties, such as gel fraction (%), swelling ratio (%), weight loss (%), mechanical strength, elongation at break, and Young’s modulus of the prepared hydrogels were evaluated. Furthermore, in vitro skin permeation and in vivo pharmacokinetic studies were performed. With an increased concentration of propylene glycol (PG), the gel fraction (%), maximum strength, and elongation at break decreased. However, the swelling ratio (%) and weight loss (%) of hydrogels increased with increased PG content. The 26% PG-hydrogel was superior, with an enhancement ratio of 12.9 (*** p < 0.001). In addition, the 11% PG-hydrogel and 1% PG-hydrogel exhibited an enhancement ratio 6.30-fold (*** p < 0.001) and 2.85-fold (* p < 0.05) higher than that exhibited by control, respectively, indicating a promising effect of PG on skin permeation. In addition, in vivo pharmacokinetic studies on hairless rats assessed the expediency for transdermal delivery of DH. The transdermal delivery of optimized hydrogel-patches with two different doses of DH revealed that the maximum plasma concentration and area under the curve were dose dependent, and the time to reach the maximum concentration was 8 h. Thus, optimized hydrogels have the potential to enhance the transdermal delivery of DH and could be a novel clinical approach.
On the Usefulness of Two Small-Scale In Vitro Setups in the Evaluation of Luminal Precipitation of Lipophilic Weak Bases in Early Formulation Development
Authors: O’Dwyer Patrick J. , Imanidis Georgios , Box Karl J. , Reppas Christos
Published: March 2020

A small-scale biphasic dissolution setup and a small-scale dissolution-permeation (D-P) setup were evaluated for their usefulness in simulating the luminal precipitation of three lipophilic weak bases—dipyridamole, ketoconazole and itraconazole. The transition from the gastric to intestinal environment was incorporated into both experimental procedures. Emulsification during the biphasic dissolution experiments had a minimal impact on the data, when appropriate risk mitigation steps were incorporated. Precipitation parameters estimated from the in vitro data were inputted into the Simcyp® physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modelling software and simulated human plasma profiles were compared with previously published pharmacokinetic data. Average Cmax and AUC values estimated using experimentally derived precipitation parameters from the biphasic experiments deviated from corresponding published actual values less than values estimated using the default simulator parameters for precipitation. The slow rate of transport through the biomimetic membrane in the D-P setup limited its usefulness in forecasting the rates of in vivo precipitation used in the modelling of average plasma profiles.
Erythrocytes as Carriers: From Drug Delivery to Biosensors
Authors: Koleva Larisa , Bovt Elizaveta , Ataullakhanov Fazoil , Sinauridze Elena
Published: March 2020

Drug delivery using natural biological carriers, especially erythrocytes, is a rapidly developing field. Such erythrocytes can act as carriers that prolong the drug’s action due to its gradual release from the carrier; as bioreactors with encapsulated enzymes performing the necessary reactions, while remaining inaccessible to the immune system and plasma proteases; or as a tool for targeted drug delivery to target organs, primarily to cells of the reticuloendothelial system, liver and spleen. To date, erythrocytes have been studied as carriers for a wide range of drugs, such as enzymes, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory, antiviral drugs, etc., and for diagnostic purposes (e.g., magnetic resonance imaging). The review focuses only on drugs loaded inside erythrocytes, defines the main lines of research for erythrocytes with bioactive substances, as well as the advantages and limitations of their application. Particular attention is paid to in vivo studies, opening-up the potential for the clinical use of drugs encapsulated into erythrocytes.
Oncology Pharmacists Can Reduce the Projected Shortfall in Cancer Patient Visits: Projections for Years 2020 to 2025
Authors: Knapp Katherine , Ignoffo Robert
Published: March 2020

Based on the projected need for a larger oncology care workforce, we estimated the patient care visits and care activities that Board Certified oncology pharmacists (BCOPs) could contribute to oncology care from 2020–2025. Using projected counts for BCOPs through 2025, we estimated that 2.9–4.1 million 30-min BCOP patient visits were possible at 50% workforce capacity. BCOPs’ clinical activities overlapped strongly with those of nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs) in patient education and treatment management. BCOPs could help reduce provider stress and burnout concerns by spreading these activities across a broader set of providers. BCOPs were more active than NPs and PAs in clinical trials research. Recent advances in immunotherapy, pharmacogenetics, pharmacogenomics, and oral oncolytic agents make the medication-focused training of OPs particularly useful to care teams. Comparison also showed that BCOPs were less active in providing follow-up visits and prescribing. Fulfilling the projected BCOP numbers through 2025 will require continued growth in Postgraduate Year 2 (PGY2) oncology pharmacy resident programs and on-the-job training programs. Our review of the trends in cancer incidence, mortality, and survivorship suggest a sustained need for the activities of BCOPs and other oncology care providers.
Screening of Chilli Pepper Genotypes as a Source of Capsaicinoids and Antioxidants under Conditions of Simulated Drought Stress
Authors: Kopta Tomas , Sekara Agnieszka , Pokluda Robert , Ferby Vojtech , Caruso Gianluca
Published: March 2020

In many regions of the world, the production of vegetable crops is limited by a deepening water crisis. Drought stress affects productivity and the chemical composition of crops. The variability of drought tolerance between species and cultivars of economically important crops, such as pepper (Capsicum species), requires specific investigations to understand the physiological and biochemical responses to the aftermath of drought. The fruits and leaves of four chilli pepper cultivars were investigated to elucidate the fruits’ pungency (Scoville Heat Units, SHU), ascorbic acid content, DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging activity, polyphenol content, membrane lipid peroxidation and key protective antioxidant enzyme activity under drought stress (18–28% volumetric water content) as compared to the control (35–60%). Drought increased the chilli pepper fruits’ pungency expressed in Scoville Heat Units (SHU) as well as ascorbic acid content, but this relationship was also dependent on genotype and stress duration. ‘Jolokia’ was marked as most sensitive to drought by increasing content of capsaicinoids and DPPH˙ scavenging activity under stress conditions. Capsaicinoids and Ascorbic acid (AsA) greatly influenced the antioxidant activity of highly pungent chilli pepper fruits, although total phenols played a significant role in the mildly pungent genotypes. Generally, the activities of antioxidant enzymes increased under drought in chilli pepper leaves and fruits, although the intensity of the reaction varied among the cultivars used in the current research. All the investigated biochemical parameters were involved in the drought response of chilli pepper plants, but their significance and effectiveness were highly cultivar-dependent.
The 21st Century Agriculture: When Rice Research Draws Attention to Climate Variability and How Weedy Rice and Underutilized Grains Come in Handy
Authors: Mohd Hanafiah Noraikim , Mispan Muhamad Shakirin , Lim Phaik Eem , Baisakh Niranjan , Cheng Acga
Published: March 2020

Rice, the first crop to be fully sequenced and annotated in the mid-2000s, is an excellent model species for crop research due mainly to its relatively small genome and rich genetic diversity. The 130-million-year-old cereal came into the limelight in the 1960s when the semi-dwarfing gene sd-1, better known as the “green revolution” gene, resulted in the establishment of a high-yielding semi-dwarf variety IR8. Deemed as the miracle rice, IR8 saved millions of lives and revolutionized irrigated rice farming particularly in the tropics. The technology, however, spurred some unintended negative consequences, especially in prompting ubiquitous monoculture systems that increase agricultural vulnerability to extreme weather events and climate variability. One feasible way to incorporate resilience in modern rice varieties with narrow genetic backgrounds is by introgressing alleles from the germplasm of its weedy and wild relatives, or perhaps from the suitable underutilized species that harbor novel genes responsive to various biotic and abiotic stresses. This review reminisces the fascinating half-century journey of rice research and highlights the potential utilization of weedy rice and underutilized grains in modern breeding programs. Other possible alternatives to improve the sustainability of crop production systems in a changing climate are also discussed.
The Chloroplast Ribonucleoprotein CP33B Quantitatively Binds the psbA mRNA
Authors: Teubner Marlene , Lenzen Benjamin , Espenberger Lucas Bernal , Fuss Janina , Nickelsen Jörg , Krause Kirsten , Ruwe Hannes , Schmitz-Linneweber Christian
Published: March 2020

Chloroplast RNAs are stabilized and processed by a multitude of nuclear-encoded RNA-binding proteins, often in response to external stimuli like light and temperature. A particularly interesting RNA-based regulation occurs with the psbA mRNA, which shows light-dependent translation. Recently, the chloroplast ribonucleoprotein CP33B was identified as a ligand of the psbA mRNA. We here characterized the interaction of CP33B with chloroplast RNAs in greater detail using a combination of RIP-chip, quantitative dot-blot, and RNA-Bind-n-Seq experiments. We demonstrate that CP33B prefers psbA over all other chloroplast RNAs and associates with the vast majority of the psbA transcript pool. The RNA sequence target motif, determined in vitro, does not fully explain CP33B’s preference for psbA, suggesting that there are other determinants of specificity in vivo.
Biological and Cellular Functions of the Microdomain-Associated FWL/CNR Protein Family in Plants
Authors: Thibivilliers Sandra , Farmer Andrew , Libault Marc
Published: March 2020

Membrane microdomains/nanodomains are sub-compartments of the plasma membrane enriched in sphingolipids and characterized by their unique protein composition. They play important roles in regulating plant development and plant-microbe interactions including mutualistic symbiotic interactions. Several protein families are associated with the microdomain fraction of biological membranes such as flotillins, prohibitins, and remorins. More recently, GmFWL1, a FWL/CNR protein exclusively expressed in the soybean nodule, was functionally characterized as a new microdomain-associated protein. Interestingly, GmFWL1 is homologous to the tomato FW2-2 protein, a major regulator of tomato fruit development. In this review, we summarize the knowledge gained about the biological, cellular, and physiological functions of members of the FWL/CNR family across various plant species. The role of the FWL/CNR proteins is also discussed within the scope of their evolution and transcriptional regulation.
Study on the Properties of Partially Transparent Wood under Different Delignification Processes
Authors: Wu Yan , Zhou Jichun , Huang Qiongtao , Yang Feng , Wang Yajing , Wang Jing
Published: March 2020

Two common tree species of Betula alnoides (Betula) and New Zealand pine (Pinups radiata D. Don) were selected as the raw materials to prepare for the partially transparent wood (TW) in this study. Although the sample is transparent in a broad sense, it has color and pattern, so it is not absolutely colorless and transparent, and is therefore called partially transparent. For ease of interpretation, the following “partially transparent wood” is referred to as “transparent wood (TW)”. The wood template (FW) was prepared by removing part of the lignin with the acid delignification method, and then the transparent wood was obtained by impregnating the wood template with a refractive-index-matched resin. The goal of this study is to achieve transparency of the wood (the light transmittance of the prepared transparent wood should be improved as much as possible) by exploring the partial delignification process of different tree species on the basis of retaining the aesthetics, texture and mechanical strength of the original wood. Therefore, in the process of removing partial lignin by the acid delignification method, the orthogonal test method was used to explore the better process conditions for the preparation of transparent wood. The tests of color difference, light transmittance, porosity, microstructure, chemical groups, mechanical strength were carried out on the wood templates and transparent wood under different experimental conditions. In addition, through the three major elements (lignin, cellulose, hemicellulose) test and orthogonal range analysis method, the influence of each process factor on the lignin removal of each tree species was obtained. It was finally obtained that the two tree species acquired the highest light transmittance at the experimental level 9 (process parameters: NaClO2 concentration 1 wt%, 90 °C, 1.5 h); and the transparent wood retained most of the color and texture of the original wood under partial delignification up to 4.84–11.07%, while the mechanical strength with 57.76% improved and light transmittance with 14.14% higher than these properties of the original wood at most. In addition, the wood template and resin have a good synergy effect from multifaceted analysis, which showed that this kind of transparent wood has the potential to become the functional decorative material.
Correlation between Functional Group and Formation of Nanoparticles in PEBAX/Ag Salt/Al Salt Complexes for Olefin Separation
Authors: Kim So Young , Cho Younghyun , Kang Sang Wook
Published: March 2020

poly ether-block-amide (PEBAX)-2533/metal salt/Al salt membranes were prepared for mixed olefin/paraffin separation. PEBAX-2533 with 80% ether group and 20% amide group was suggested as the polymer matrix for comparison of separation performance according to the functional group ratio in copolymer PEBAX. In addition, Al salts were used to stabilize metal ions for a long time as additives. High permeance was expected with the proportion of high ether groups, since these functional groups provided relatively permeable regions. As a result, the PEBAX-2533 composite membrane showed a selectivity of 5 (propylene/propane) with 10 GPU. However, the permeance of membrane was not unexpectedly improved and the selectivity was reduced. The result was analyzed by using SEM, RAMAN and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), including Fourier transform infrared (FTIR). The reduction in separation performance was determined by using FT-IR. Based on these results, in order to stabilize the metal ions interacting with the polymer through Al(NO3)3, it was concluded that a specific ratio of the amide group was needed in PEBAX as a polymer matrix.