bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbohydrate Derived Organogelators and the Corresponding Functional Gels Developed in Recent Time
Authors: Basu Nabamita , Chakraborty Arijit , Ghosh Rina
Published: May 2018

Owing to their multifarious applicability, studies of molecular and supramolecular gelators and their corresponding gels have gained momentum, particularly in the last two decades. Hydrophobic–hydrophilic balance, different solvent parameters, gelator–gelator and gelator–solvent interactions, including different noncovalent intermolecular interactive forces like H-bonding, ionic interactions, π–π interactions, van der Waals interactions, etc., cause the supramolecular gel assembly of micro and nano scales with different types of morphologies, depending on the gelator, solvent, and condition of gelation. These gel structures can be utilized for making template inorganic superstructures for potential application in separation, generation of nanocomposite materials, and other applications like self-healing, controlled drug encapsulation, release and delivery, as structuring agents, oil-spill recovery, for preparation of semi-conducting fabrics, and in many other fields. Sugars, being easily available, inexpensive, and nontoxic natural resources with multi functionality and well-defined chirality are attractive starting materials for the preparation of sugar-based gelators. This review will focus on compilation of sugar derived organogelators and the corresponding gels, along with the potential applications that have been developed and published recently between January 2015 and March 2018.
RECTA: Regulon Identification Based on Comparative Genomics and Transcriptomics Analysis
Authors: Chen Xin , Ma Anjun , McDermaid Adam , Zhang Hanyuan , Liu Chao , Cao Huansheng , Ma Qin
Published: May 2018

Regulons, which serve as co-regulated gene groups contributing to the transcriptional regulation of microbial genomes, have the potential to aid in understanding of underlying regulatory mechanisms. In this study, we designed a novel computational pipeline, regulon identification based on comparative genomics and transcriptomics analysis (RECTA), for regulon prediction related to the gene regulatory network under certain conditions. To demonstrate the effectiveness of this tool, we implemented RECTA on Lactococcus lactis MG1363 data to elucidate acid-response regulons. A total of 51 regulons were identified, 14 of which have computational-verified significance. Among these 14 regulons, five of them were computationally predicted to be connected with acid stress response. Validated by literature, 33 genes in Lactococcus lactis MG1363 were found to have orthologous genes which were associated with six regulons. An acid response related regulatory network was constructed, involving two trans-membrane proteins, eight regulons (llrA, llrC, hllA, ccpA, NHP6A, rcfB, regulons #8 and #39), nine functional modules, and 33 genes with orthologous genes known to be associated with acid stress. The predicted response pathways could serve as promising candidates for better acid tolerance engineering in Lactococcus lactis. Our RECTA pipeline provides an effective way to construct a reliable gene regulatory network through regulon elucidation, and has strong application power and can be effectively applied to other bacterial genomes where the elucidation of the transcriptional regulation network is needed.
Time and Place as Modifiers of Personal UV Exposure
Authors: Diffey Brian L.
Published: May 2018

It is a common belief that, if we want to limit our sun exposure during outdoor recreational activities and holidays in order to avoid sunburn or reduce our risk of skin cancer, we need to reach for the bottle of sunscreen or cover up with clothing. As important as these measures are, there is another way to enjoy our time outdoors and still benefit from the experience. In this article, we consider the impact of time, place, and behaviour outdoors on our exposure to solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Some of the simple actions we can take in controlling our UV exposure include being aware of the position of the sun in the sky, understanding how we can use the UV index to guide our outdoor exposure, and the importance of reducing our sun exposure around the middle of the day. Finally we review our preferred holiday activities and destinations, and the influence of outdoor leisure pursuits. By planning where and when we spend our leisure time in the sun, we can maximise our enjoyment whilst limiting our UV exposure.
Clinical Relevant Polymorphisms Affecting Clopidogrel Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics: Insights from the Puerto Rico Newborn Screening Program
Authors: Hernandez-Suarez Dagmar F. , Tomassini-Fernandini Jonnalie C. , Cuevas Angelica , Rosario-Berrios Anyelis N. , Nuñez-Medina Héctor J. , Padilla-Arroyo Dariana , Rivera Nannette , Liriano Jennifer , Vega-Roman Rocio K. , Renta Jessicca Y. , Melin Kyle , Duconge Jorge
Published: May 2018

Background: Variations in several clopidogrel-pharmacogenes have been linked to clopidogrel response variability and clinical outcomes. We aimed to determine the frequency distribution of major polymorphisms on CYP2C19, PON1, ABCB1 and P2RY12 pharmacogenes in Puerto Ricans. Methods: This was a cross-sectional, population-based study of 200 unrelated “Guthrie” cards specimens from newborns registered in the Puerto Rican newborn screening program (PRNSP) between 2004 and 2014. Taqman® SNP assay techniques were used for genotyping. Results: Minor allele frequencies (MAF) were 46% for PON1 (rs662), 41% for ABCB1 (rs1045642), 14% for CYP2C19*17, 13% for CYP2C19*2, 12% for P2RY12-H2 and 0.3% for CYP2C19*4. No carriers of the CYP2C19*3 variants were detected. All alleles and genotype proportions were found to be in Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium (HWE). Overall, there were no significant differences between MAFs of these variants in Puerto Ricans and the general population (n = 453) of the 1000 Genome project, except when comparisons to each individual parental group were performed (i.e., Africans, Europeans and East-Asians; p < 0.05). As expected, the prevalence of these markers in Puerto Ricans most resembled those in the 181 subjects from reference populations of the Americas. Conclusions: These prevalence data provide a necessary groundwork for future clinical studies of clopidogrel pharmacogenetics in Caribbean Hispanics.
Burnout Risk and Protection Factors in Certified Nursing Aides
Authors: Molero Jurado María del Mar , Pérez-Fuentes María del Carmen , Gázquez Linares José Jesús Gázquez , Simón Márquez María del Mar , Martos Martínez África
Published: May 2018

Studies have found a higher risk of burnout among employees in the healthcare sector. As such, this study focused on Certified Nursing Aides (CNAs) who have shown a high prevalence of burnout and are therefore considered an especially vulnerable group. The objective of this study was to identify the relationships between some organizational, personal, and sociodemographic factors and burnout. The final study sample included 278 working CNAs with a mean age of 40.88 (SD = 9.41). To compile the data, an ad hoc questionnaire was used to collect sociodemographic information. To collect professional and employment information, we used the Brief Emotional Intelligence Inventory for Adults, the Brief Questionnaire on Perceived Social Support, and the General Self-Efficacy Scale. The results showed that Burnout Syndrome is significantly and negatively related to all the emotional intelligence factors, self-efficacy, and perceived social support. The risk of burnout is higher in younger persons and in permanently employed professionals. General self-efficacy and stress management act as protective factors against the likelihood of burnout. This study suggests that organizations should urge coaching and transformational leadership training programs to promote the wellbeing and organizational commitment of workers.
Key Dimensions for the Prevention and Control of Communicable Diseases in Institutional Settings: A Scoping Review to Guide the Development of a Tool to Strengthen Preparedness at Migrant Holding Centres in the EU/EEA
Authors: Riccardo Flavia , Suk Jonathan E. , Espinosa Laura , Bella Antonino , Giambi Cristina , Del Manso Martina , Napoli Christian , Dente Maria Grazia , Nacca Gloria , Declich Silvia
Published: May 2018

Migrant centres, as other institutions hosting closed or semi-open communities, may face specific challenges in preventing and controlling communicable disease transmission, particularly during times of large sudden influx. However, there is dearth of evidence on how to prioritise investments in aspects such as human resources, medicines and vaccines, sanitation and disinfection, and physical infrastructures to prevent/control communicable disease outbreaks. We analysed frequent drivers of communicable disease transmission/issues for outbreak management in institutions hosting closed or semi-open communities, including migrant centres, and reviewed existing assessment tools to guide the development of a European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) checklist tool to strengthen preparedness against communicable disease outbreaks in migrant centres. Among articles/reports focusing specifically on migrant centres, outbreaks through multiple types of disease transmission were described as possible/occurred. Human resources and physical infrastructure were the dimensions most frequently identified as crucial for preventing and mitigating outbreaks. This review also recognised a lack of common agreed standards to guide and assess preparedness activities in migrant centres, thereby underscoring the need for a capacity-oriented ECDC preparedness checklist tool.
Patterns of Harmful Alcohol Consumption among Truck Drivers: Implications for Occupational Health and Work Safety from a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Bragazzi Nicola Luigi , Dini Guglielmo , Toletone Alessandra , Rahmani Alborz , Montecucco Alfredo , Massa Emanuela , Manca Alessia , Guglielmi Ottavia , Garbarino Sergio , Debarbieri Nicoletta , Durando Paolo
Published: May 2018

Alcohol consumption is one of the main causes of productivity losses arising from absenteeism, presenteeism, and workplace injuries. Among occupational categories most affected by the use of this substance, truck drivers are subject to risk factors and risky behaviors that can have a serious impact on their health, their work, and the general road safety. The use of alcohol during truck-driving activities is, indeed, an important risk factor for traffic accidents. The present systematic review and meta-analysis aims at synthesizing the literature regarding harmful alcohol consumption patterns among truck drivers in a rigorous way. A ‘binge drinking’ prevalence of 19.0%, 95% confidence interval or CI (13.1, 26.9) was present. An ‘everyday drinking’ pattern rate of 9.4%, 95% CI (7.0, 12.4) was found, while the rate of alcohol misuse according to the “Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test” (AUDIT)—“Cut down-Annoyed-Guilty-Eye opener questionnaire” (CAGE) instruments was computed to be of 22.7%, 95% CI (14.8, 33.0). No evidence of publication bias could be found. However, there is the need to improve the quality of published research, utilizing standardized reliable instruments. The knowledge of these epidemiological data can be useful for decision makers in order to develop, design, and implement ad hoc adequate policies.
Risk of Hyperglycemia and Diabetes after Early-Life Famine Exposure: A Cross-Sectional Survey in Northeastern China
Authors: Zhang Yangyu , Liu Xinyu , Wang Mohan , Song Yan , Zhang Lili , You Yueyue , Su Yingying , Liu Yingyu , Kou Changgui
Published: May 2018

Previous studies suggested that malnutrition during early life may play an essential role in later outcomes and disease risk in adulthood. We aimed to investigate the risks of hyperglycemia and diabetes 50 years after early-life famine exposure in a Northeastern Chinese population. We used the data from 5690 adults born between 1956 and 1965 in selected communities from a 2012 cross-sectional study. The early-childhood exposure cohort showed an increased risk of hyperglycemia compared with the unexposed cohort in the female population (odds ratio (OR) 1.46; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.04, 2.06). The increased risk of diabetes in the early-childhood and fetal exposure cohorts was 37.0% (95% CI 1.05–1.79) and 50% (95% CI 1.15–1.96), respectively. For women, the risk of diabetes was more pronounced in the fetal-exposed cohort (OR 1.82; 95% CI 1.26–2.63) than in the early-childhood cohort (OR 1.57; 95% CI 1.08–2.26). Early-life exposure to famine increased the risk of diabetes. Furthermore, early-childhood exposure to famine might increase the risk of hyperglycemia in women. A policy for preventing early life malnutrition should be drafted by the government to prevent hyperglycemia and diabetes in adulthood.
Implementation of Brain Breaks® in the Classroom and Effects on Attitudes toward Physical Activity in a Macedonian School Setting
Authors: Popeska Biljana , Jovanova-Mitkovska Snezana , Chin Ming-Kai , Edginton Christopher R. , Mo Ching Mok Magdalena , Gontarev Serjoza
Published: May 2018

The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of Brain Break® activities on interest and motivation for physical activity among schoolchildren and the contribution of such activities on learning for health and holistic development. The study sample was comprised of 283 participants, primary school students from 3rd to 5th grades from two public schools in the Republic of Macedonia. Six experimental and six control groups were included in the study. Interventions in classroom settings—based Brain Break® video exercises were introduced in the experimental group during a period of three months. Students’ attitudes toward physical activity were tested using a self-report survey instrument entitled “Attitudes toward Physical Activity Scale (APAS)” before and after intervention. Applied factor analyses were completed and the results of these analysis support APAS validity and the successful use of this application in the measurement of the learning experience, self-awareness, self-efficacy, and self-confidence in developing physical fitness. Learning was enhanced by using video exercises. Information presented in this paper is meaningful for the promotion of better exercise habits and the holistic approach to better health by using personal motivation and motivation provided by others. The results from repeated ANCOVA suggest positive effects of the applied Brain Break® video exercises as an interventional program. The study confirms the effect of application of Brain Break® video exercises on children’s attitudes for physical activity, motivation for PA, internalization of movement habits as personal good.
Circulating Cell-Free DNA as a Prognostic and Molecular Marker for Patients with Brain Tumors under Perillyl Alcohol-Based Therapy
Authors: Faria Giselle , Silva Emanuelle , Da Fonseca Clovis , Quirico-Santos Thereza
Published: May 2018

Tumor infiltration into brain tissue usually remains undetected even by high-resolution imaging. Molecular markers are used to increase diagnostic accuracy, but with limited continuous monitoring application. We evaluated the potential of circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) as a molecular indicator of the response to therapy by the intranasal administration (ITN) of perillyl alcohol (POH) in brain tumors. The cohort included 130 healthy subjects arranged as control-paired groups and patients at terminal stages with glioblastoma (GBM, n = 122) or brain metastasis (BM, n = 55) from stage IV adenocarcinomas. Serum cfDNA was isolated and quantified by fluorimetry. Compared with the controls (40 ng/mL), patients with brain tumors before ITN-POH treatment had increased (p < 0.0001) cfDNA median levels: GBM (286 ng/mL) and BM (588 ng/mL). ITN-POH treatment was significantly correlated (rho = −0.225; p = 0.024) with survival of >6 months at a concentration of 599 ± 221 ng/mL and of <6 months at 1626 ± 505 ng/mL, but a sharp and abrupt increase of cfDNA and tumor recurrence occurred after ITN-POH discontinuation. Patients under continuous ITN-POH treatment and checked with brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) compatible with complete response had cfDNA levels similar to the controls. cfDNA may be used as a noninvasive prognostic and molecular marker for POH-based therapy in brain tumors and as an accurate screening tool for the early detection of tumor progression.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Zeise’s Salt Derivatives with Acetylsalicylic Acid Substructure
Authors: Weninger Alexander , Baecker Daniel , Obermoser Victoria , Egger Dorothea , Wurst Klaus , Gust Ronald
Published: May 2018

The development of novel biologically active organometallic compounds bearing an acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) substructure led to the synthesis of analogical Zeise-type salts that accordingly inhibit cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes. In order to determine the influence of the length of the alkyl chain between the platinum(II) center and the ASA moiety, compounds with varying methylene groups (n = 1–4) were synthesized and characterized. For the propene derivative structural elucidation by X-ray crystallography was possible. Prior to evaluation of biological activity, the complexes were investigated regarding their stability in different media, such as water, physiological sodium chloride, and phosphate buffered saline. Therefore, an analytical method based on capillary electrophoresis was established. All of the compounds were tested for their COX inhibitory potential. In general, complexes with longer alkyl chains caused higher inhibition of COX enzymes and the inhibitory potential towards COX enzymes was enhanced when compared to Zeise’s salt. The growth inhibitory effects of the synthesized substances were investigated in vitro against colon carcinoma (HT-29) and breast cancer (MCF-7) cells. The IC50 values of the new derivatives ranged from 30 to 50 µM, whereas neither Zeise’s salt itself nor ASA showed any antiproliferative activity at the used concentrations.
Effects of PTEN Loss and Activated KRAS Overexpression on Mechanical Properties of Breast Epithelial Cells
Authors: Linthicum Will , Thanh Minh-Tri Ho , Vitolo Michele I. , Wen Qi
Published: May 2018

It has previously been shown that the simultaneous activation of PI3K (phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase) and Ras/MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinases) pathways facilitate tumor growth despite only inducing cancer cell dormancy individually. Determining the impacts on cellular mechanics each pathway incites alone and in unison is critical to developing non-toxic cancer therapies for triple-negative breast cancers. PTEN (phosphatase and tensin homolog) knockout and activated KRAS (Kristen rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog) overexpression in healthy MCF-10A human breast epithelial cells activated the PI3K and Ras/MAPK pathways, respectively. Cell stiffness and fluidity were simultaneously measured using atomic force microscopy. Results suggest that PTEN knockout reduced cell stiffness and increased cell fluidity independent of PI3K activation. Effects of activated KRAS overexpression on cell stiffness depends on rigidity of cell culture substrate. Activated KRAS overexpression also counteracts the effects of PTEN knockout.
Decoding the Divergent Subcellular Location of Two Highly Similar Paralogous LEA Proteins
Authors: Avelange-Macherel Marie-Hélène , Candat Adrien , Neveu Martine , Tolleter Dimitri , Macherel David
Published: May 2018

Many mitochondrial proteins are synthesized as precursors in the cytosol with an N-terminal mitochondrial targeting sequence (MTS) which is cleaved off upon import. Although much is known about import mechanisms and MTS structural features, the variability of MTS still hampers robust sub-cellular software predictions. Here, we took advantage of two paralogous late embryogenesis abundant proteins (LEA) from Arabidopsis with different subcellular locations to investigate structural determinants of mitochondrial import and gain insight into the evolution of the LEA genes. LEA38 and LEA2 are short proteins of the LEA_3 family, which are very similar along their whole sequence, but LEA38 is targeted to mitochondria while LEA2 is cytosolic. Differences in the N-terminal protein sequences were used to generate a series of mutated LEA2 which were expressed as GFP-fusion proteins in leaf protoplasts. By combining three types of mutation (substitution, charge inversion, and segment replacement), we were able to redirect the mutated LEA2 to mitochondria. Analysis of the effect of the mutations and determination of the LEA38 MTS cleavage site highlighted important structural features within and beyond the MTS. Overall, these results provide an explanation for the likely loss of mitochondrial location after duplication of the ancestral gene.
Alteration of Transcripts of Stress-Protective Genes and Transcriptional Factors by γ-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) Associated with Improved Heat and Drought Tolerance in Creeping Bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera)
Authors: Li Zhou , Peng Yan , Huang Bingru
Published: May 2018

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) may play a positive role in regulating plant tolerance to drought or heat stress. The objectives of this study were to investigate the physiological effects of GABA on tolerance of creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera) to heat and drought stress and to determine whether enhanced heat and drought tolerance due to GABA treatment was associated with the up-regulation of selected genes and transcriptional factors involved in stress protection. Creeping bentgrass (cultivar “Penncross”) plants were treated with 0.5 mM GABA or water (untreated control) as a foliar spray and were subsequently exposed to heat stress (35/30 °C, day/night), drought stress by withholding irrigation, or non-stress conditions in controlled-environment growth chambers. Exogenous application of GABA significantly improved plant tolerance to heat and drought stress, as reflected by increased leaf water content, cell membrane stability, and chlorophyll content. The analysis of gene transcript level revealed that exogenous GABA up-regulated the expression of ABF3, POD, APX, HSP90, DHN3, and MT1 during heat stress and the expression of CDPK26, MAPK1, ABF3, WRKY75, MYB13, HSP70, MT1, 14-3-3, and genes (SOD, CAT, POD, APX, MDHAR, DHAR, and GR) encoding antioxidant enzymes during drought stress. The up-regulation of the aforementioned stress-protective genes and transcriptional factors could contribute to improved heat and drought tolerance in creeping bentgrass.
3D Bioprinted Artificial Trachea with Epithelial Cells and Chondrogenic-Differentiated Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Bae Sang-Woo , Lee Kang-Woog , Park Jae-Hyun , Lee JunHee , Jung Cho-Rok , Yu JunJie , Kim Hwi-Yool , Kim Dae-Hyun
Published: May 2018

Tracheal resection has limited applicability. Although various tracheal replacement strategies were performed using artificial prosthesis, synthetic stents and tissue transplantation, the best method in tracheal reconstruction remains to be identified. Recent advances in tissue engineering enabled 3D bioprinting using various biocompatible materials including living cells, thereby making the product clinically applicable. Moreover, clinical interest in mesenchymal stem cell has dramatically increased. Here, rabbit bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (bMSC) and rabbit respiratory epithelial cells were cultured. The chondrogenic differentiation level of bMSC cultured in regular media (MSC) and that in chondrogenic media (d-MSC) were compared. Dual cell-containing artificial trachea were manufactured using a 3D bioprinting method with epithelial cells and undifferentiated bMSC (MSC group, n = 6) or with epithelial cells and chondrogenic-differentiated bMSC (d-MSC group, n = 6). d-MSC showed a relatively higher level of glycosaminoglycan (GAG) accumulation and chondrogenic marker gene expression than MSC in vitro. Neo-epithelialization and neo-vascularization were observed in all groups in vivo but neo-cartilage formation was only noted in d-MSC. The epithelial cells in the 3D bioprinted artificial trachea were effective in respiratory epithelium regeneration. Chondrogenic-differentiated bMSC had more neo-cartilage formation potential in a short period. Nevertheless, the cartilage formation was observed only in a localized area.
NSC 95397 Suppresses Proliferation and Induces Apoptosis in Colon Cancer Cells through MKP-1 and the ERK1/2 Pathway
Authors: Dubey Navneet Kumar , Peng Bou-Yue , Lin Chien-Min , Wang Peter D. , Wang Joseph R. , Chan Chun-Hao , Wei Hong-Jian , Deng Win-Ping
Published: May 2018

NSC 95397, a quinone-based small molecule compound, has been identified as an inhibitor for dual-specificity phosphatases, including mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphatase-1 (MKP-1). MKP-1 is known to inactivate mitogen-activated protein kinases by dephosphorylating both of their threonine and tyrosine residues. Moreover, owing to their participation in tumorigenesis and drug resistance in colon cancer cells, MKP-1 is an attractive therapeutic target for colon cancer treatment. We therefore investigated the inhibitory activity of NSC 95397 against three colon cancer cell lines including SW480, SW620, and DLD-1, and their underlying mechanisms. The results demonstrated that NSC 95397 reduced cell viability and anchorage-independent growth of all the three colon cancer cell lines through inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis via regulating cell-cycle-related proteins, including p21, cyclin-dependent kinases, and caspases. Besides, by using mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) inhibitor U0126, we provided mechanistic evidence that the antineoplastic effects of NSC 95397 were achieved via inhibiting MKP-1 activity followed by ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Conclusively, our results indicated that NSC 95397 might serve as an effective therapeutic intervention for colon cancer through regulating MKP-1 and ERK1/2 pathway.
A Comprehensive Study of Activity Recognition Using Accelerometers
Authors: Twomey Niall , Diethe Tom , Fafoutis Xenofon , Elsts Atis , McConville Ryan , Flach Peter , Craddock Ian
Published: May 2018

This paper serves as a survey and empirical evaluation of the state-of-the-art in activity recognition methods using accelerometers. The paper is particularly focused on long-term activity recognition in real-world settings. In these environments, data collection is not a trivial matter; thus, there are performance trade-offs between prediction accuracy, which is not the sole system objective, and keeping the maintenance overhead at minimum levels. We examine research that has focused on the selection of activities, the features that are extracted from the accelerometer data, the segmentation of the time-series data, the locations of accelerometers, the selection and configuration trade-offs, the test/retest reliability, and the generalisation performance. Furthermore, we study these questions from an experimental platform and show, somewhat surprisingly, that many disparate experimental configurations yield comparable predictive performance on testing data. Our understanding of these results is that the experimental setup directly and indirectly defines a pathway for context to be delivered to the classifier, and that, in some settings, certain configurations are more optimal than alternatives. We conclude by identifying how the main results of this work can be used in practice, specifically in experimental configurations in challenging experimental conditions.
A Single-Step Surface Modification of Electrospun Silica Nanofibers Using a Silica Binding Protein Fused with an RGD Motif for Enhanced PC12 Cell Growth and Differentiation
Authors: Chen Wen Shuo , Guo Ling Yu , Masroujeh Amien Mohamed , Augustine Anna Morgan , Tsai Cheng Kang , Chin Ting Yu , Chen-Yang Yui Whei , Yang Mong-Lin
Published: May 2018

In this study, a previously known high-affinity silica binding protein (SB) was genetically engineered to fuse with an integrin-binding peptide (RGD) to create a recombinant protein (SB-RGD). SB-RGD was successfully expressed in Escherichia coli and purified using silica beads through a simple and fast centrifugation method. A further functionality assay showed that SB-RGD bound to the silica surface with an extremely high affinity that required 2 M MgCl2 for elution. Through a single-step incubation, the purified SB-RGD proteins were noncovalently coated onto an electrospun silica nanofiber (SNF) substrate to fabricate the SNF-SB-RGD substrate. SNF-SB-RGD was characterized by a combination of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and immunostaining fluorescence microscopy. As PC12 cells were seeded onto the SNF-SB-RGD surface, significantly higher cell viability and longer neurite extensions were observed when compared to those on the control surfaces. These results indicated that SB-RGD could serve as a noncovalent coating biologic to support and promote neuron growth and differentiation on silica-based substrates for neuronal tissue engineering. It also provides proof of concept for the possibility to genetically engineer protein-based signaling molecules to noncovalently modify silica-based substrates as bioinspired material.
Applying Low-Frequency Vibration for the Experimental Investigation of Clutch Hub Forming
Authors: Meng De’an , Zhu Chengcheng , Zhao Xuzhe , Zhao Shengdun
Published: May 2018

A vibration-assisted plastic-forming method was proposed, and its influence on clutch hub forming process was investigated. The experiments were conducted on a vibration-assisted hydraulic extrusion press with adjustable frequency and amplitude. Vibration frequency and amplitude were considered in investigating the effect of vibration on forming load and surface quality. Results showed that applying vibration can effectively reduce forming force and improve surface quality. The drop in forming load was proportional to the vibration frequency and amplitude, and the load decreased by up to 25%. Such reduction in forming load raised with amplitude increase because the increase in amplitude would accelerate punch relative speed, which then weakened the adhesion between workpiece and dies. By increasing the vibration frequency, the punch movement was enhanced, and the number of attempts to drag the lubricant out of the pits was increased. In this manner, the lubrication condition was improved greatly. The 3D surface topography testing confirmed the assumption. Moreover, vibration frequency exerted a more significant effect on the forming load reduction than vibration amplitude.
Molecular Dynamics Study of an Amorphous Polyethylene/Silica Interface with Shear Tests
Authors: Zhuang Xiaoying , Zhou Shuai
Published: May 2018

An amorphous polyethylene/silica (PE/S) interface exists in many materials. However, the research of the interfacial properties at microscale is lacking. Shear failure and adhesion properties of an amorphous PE/S interface are studied by molecular dynamics. The effects of PE chain length, the number of chains, and coupling agents on the shear behavior and interfacial adhesion are investigated. It is found that the modified silica (mS) surface induces an increase in the adhesion strength compared to unmodified S. The damage process and failure mode of the PE/S and PE/mS interface are analyzed at microscale. The contribution of bond length, bond angle, torsional potentials, and nonbonded energy is estimated as a function of the shear deformation to clarify the deformation mechanisms. The energy partitioning results indicate that the elastic, yield, and postyielding regions are mostly controlled by the nonbonded interactions. The dihedral motions of the chains also have an influence. Furthermore, the simulation results exhibit how the internal mechanism evolves with the shear deformation.
A Novel (R,S)-Norm Entropy Measure of Intuitionistic Fuzzy Sets and Its Applications in Multi-Attribute Decision-Making
Authors: Garg Harish , Kaur Jaspreet
Published: May 2018

The objective of this manuscript is to present a novel information measure for measuring the degree of fuzziness in intuitionistic fuzzy sets (IFSs). To achieve it, we define an ( R , S ) -norm-based information measure called the entropy to measure the degree of fuzziness of the set. Then, we prove that the proposed entropy measure is a valid measure and satisfies certain properties. An illustrative example related to a linguistic variable is given to demonstrate it. Then, we utilized it to propose two decision-making approaches to solve the multi-attribute decision-making (MADM) problem in the IFS environment by considering the attribute weights as either partially known or completely unknown. Finally, a practical example is provided to illustrate the decision-making process. The results corresponding to different pairs of ( R , S ) give different choices to the decision-maker to assess their results.
HSQC-TOCSY Fingerprinting-Directed Discovery of Antiplasmodial Polyketides from the Marine Ascidian-Derived Streptomyces sp. (USC-16018)
Authors: Buedenbender Larissa , Robertson Luke P. , Lucantoni Leonardo , Avery Vicky M. , Kurtböke D. İpek , Carroll Anthony R.
Published: May 2018

Chemical investigations on the fermentation extract obtained from an ascidian-derived Streptomyces sp. (USC-16018) yielded a new ansamycin polyketide, herbimycin G (1), as well as a known macrocyclic polyketide, elaiophylin (2), and four known diketopiperazines (3–6). The structures of the compounds were elucidated based on 1D/2D NMR and MS data. The absolute configuration of 1 was established by comparison of experimental and predicted electronic circular dichroism (ECD) data. Antiplasmodial activities were tested for the natural products against chloroquine sensitive (3D7) and chloroquine resistant (Dd2) Plasmodium falciparum strains; the two polyketides (1–2) demonstrated an inhibition of >75% against both parasite strains and while 2 was highly cytotoxic, herbimycin G (1) showed no cytotoxicity and good predicted water solubility.
Alteration of Androgen Receptor Protein Stability by Triptolide in LNCaP Cells
Authors: Li Wei , Liu Bi-De , Liao Kai , Liu Yong , Wan Zi-Jin , Dong Yu-Fen , Cao Qian-Qian , Zhu Qian , Gu Xiao
Published: May 2018

Background and Objective: Although triptolide was effective for prostate cancer (PCa), the mechanism is still unclear. Androgen receptor (AR) plays a large role in the development and progression of PCa, even after castration. The present study aimed at investigating the effects of triptolide on AR protein stability and the possible mechanism. Materials and Methods: By blocking protein synthesis with cycloheximide (CHX), the effect of triptolide on AR protein stability was investigated with western blot assay. The potential role of calpains in triptolide reduced AR protein stability was investigated with calpain inhibitor and Ca2+ chelator. Results: Triptolide down-regulated AR protein level when protein synthesis was blocked by CHX, demonstrating the decrease of AR protein stability. The AR protein level was restored when the cells were co-treated with triptolide and calpain inhibitor or Ca2+ chelator, indicating the important role of calpains. Conclusions: The results indicate that triptolide can activate calpain via promoting intracellular Ca2+ accumulation, and thus decrease the stability of AR protein, subsequently resulting in the breakdown of the AR protein in LNCaP cells. This work provides an experimental basis and evidence to elucidate the anti-PCa mechanisms of triptolide.
Characterization and Comparison of Nutritional Intake between Preparatory and Competitive Phase of Highly Trained Athletes
Authors: Nunes Catarina L. , Matias Catarina N. , Santos Diana A. , Morgado José P. , Monteiro Cristina P. , Sousa Mónica , Minderico Cláudia S. , Rocha Paulo M. , St-Onge Marie-Pierre , Sardinha Luís B. , Silva Analiza M.
Published: May 2018

Background and objective: For a high level athlete, it is essential to ensure optimal energy as well as macro- and micro-nutrient and fluid intakes, in order to improve their performance during training and competition. Protein intake should be 1.2–2.1 g/kg/d, whereas the requirements for carbohydrate and fat intakes should be >5g/kg/d and 20–35% of energy, respectively. The micronutrient and fluid intakes in athletes were compared to the Dietary Reference Intake (DRI) and European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) recommendations, respectively. This study aimed to characterize and compare the nutritional habits of athletes at the preparatory and competitive phase, and to test if their nutritional intakes were in accordance with the recommendations. Materials and methods: A total of 276 professional athletes were assessed. To evaluate their nutritional intake, the athletes completed a 7 days food record. Under reporting was defined using a ratio of energy intake to basal metabolic rate (BMR) of 1.1. Body composition was assessed using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Results: Almost half (49%) of the athletes from the final sample reported lower measured intakes of carbohydrates and 27% reported a higher consumption of proteins than what was recommended. In both the preparatory and competitive phases, the micronutrients with a higher mismatch between the actual and recommended intakes were vitamins D and E, magnesium, folate, calcium, and zinc for both sexes, and iron intake for females. A large proportion of athletes reported a lower water intake. Compared to the recommendations, males reported a higher intake of carbohydrates, lipids, vitamins E, calcium, and magnesium (p <0.05) in the competitive phase, while females reported a lower ingestion of water, vitamins A and D, and calcium (p <0.05) in the preparatory phase. Conclusions: Overall, in the preparatory and competitive phases of the season, athletes reported a macro- and micro-nutrient intake below the recommendations, especially in the female athletic population. Dietary intakes in athletes need to be optimized and adjusted to their requirements, according to sex and sport, so as to avoid compromising health and performance.
The Effect of Impingement Velocity and Angle Variation on the Erosion Corrosion Performance of API 5L-X65 Carbon Steel in a Flow Loop
Authors: Toor Ihsan UlHaq , Irshad Hafiz Muzammil , Badr Hassan Mohamed , Samad Mohammed Abdul
Published: May 2018

Erosion corrosion performance of API 5L-X65 carbon steel was investigated at three different impingement velocities (3, 6 & 12 m/s), five different angles (15, 30, 45, 60, & 90°), and with/without solid particles (average particle size of 314 µm). The experiments were conducted in 0.2 M NaCl solution at room temperature for a duration of 24 h and the results showed that the maximum erosion corrosion rate was observed at 45° irrespective of the velocity. The highest erosion corrosion rate at 45° was due to the balance between the shear and normal impact stress at this angle. Ploughing, deep craters, and micro-forging/plastic deformation were found to be the main erosion corrosion mechanisms. The maximum wear scar depth measured using optical profilometery was found to be 51 µm (average) at an impingement angle of 45°.
Microstructural Evolution, Thermal Stability and Microhardness of the Nb–Ti–Si-Based Alloy during Mechanical Alloying
Authors: Zhang Lijing , Guo Xiping
Published: May 2018

Amorphization of the Nb–20Ti–15Si–5Cr–3Hf–3Al (at %) alloy is realized by mechanical alloying (MA). The amorphous phase formation and microstructural evolution are investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). During ball milling, the phase constituent of the alloy powder exhibits a transition from most supersaturated Nb-based solid solutions (Nbss) and a small amount of amorphous phases (after 20 h of ball milling) to a completely amorphous state (after milling for 40 h), which is accompanied by evolution of the powder morphology from flakes to aggregates and eventually to refined granules. The thermal stability of the milled amorphous powders is studied using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). With the increase of heating temperature, the distortion energy stored during ball milling is released, followed by a transformation from amorphous phase to Nbss and γ-Nb5Si3 phases. In addition, the Vickers microhardness remarkably increases, as a result of the amorphous phase formation in the matrix.
Artificial Cochlear Sensory Epithelium with Functions of Outer Hair Cells Mimicked Using Feedback Electrical Stimuli
Authors: Tsuji Tetsuro , Nakayama Asuka , Yamazaki Hiroki , Kawano Satoyuki
Published: May 2018

We report a novel vibration control technique of an artificial auditory cochlear epithelium that mimics the function of outer hair cells in the organ of Corti. The proposed piezoelectric and trapezoidal membrane not only has the acoustic/electric conversion and frequency selectivity of the previous device developed mainly by one of the authors and colleagues, but also has a function to control local vibration according to sound stimuli. Vibration control is achieved by applying local electrical stimuli to patterned electrodes on an epithelium made using micro-electro-mechanical system technology. By choosing appropriate phase differences between sound and electrical stimuli, it is shown that it is possible to both amplify and dampen membrane vibration, realizing better control of the response of the artificial cochlea. To be more specific, amplification and damping are achieved when the phase difference between the membrane vibration by sound stimuli and electrical stimuli is zero and π , respectively. We also demonstrate that the developed control system responds automatically to a change in sound frequency. The proposed technique can be applied to mimic the nonlinear response of the outer hair cells in a cochlea, and to realize a high-quality human auditory system.
Lectin-Based Assay for Glycoform-Specific Detection of α2,6-sialylated Transferrin and Carcinoembryonic Antigen in Tissue and Body Fluid
Authors: Ito Hiromi , Hoshi Kyoka , Honda Takashi , Hashimoto Yasuhiro
Published: May 2018

Antibodies are useful for detecting glycoprotein antigens, but a conventional antibody recognizes only a protein epitope rather than a glycan. Thus, glycan isoform detection generally requires time- and labor-consuming processes such as lectin affinity column chromatography followed by sandwich ELISA. We recently found antigen-antibody reactions that were inhibited by lectin binding to glycans on the glycoprotein antigen, leading to a convenient glycoform-specific assay. Indeed, Sambucus sieboldiana agglutinin (SSA) lectin, a binder to sialylα2,6galactose residue, inhibited antibody binding to α2,6-sialylated transferrin (Tf) (SSA inhibition). SSA inhibition was not observed with other glycoforms, such as periodate-treated, sialidase-treated and sialidase/galactosidase-treated Tf, suggesting that the assay was glycoform-specific. SSA inhibition was also applicable for visualizing localization of α2,6-sialylated-Tf in a liver section. This is the first immunohistochemical demonstration of glycoform localization in a tissue section. SSA inhibition was utilized for establishing ELISA to quantify α2,6-sialylated carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), a marker for various cancers. In addition, α2,6-sialylated-CEA was visualized in a colonic adenocarcinoma section by SSA inhibition. The method would further be applicable to a simple and rapid estimation of other α2,6-sialylated glycoproteins and have a potential aid to histopathological diagnosis.
Differences over 12 Years in Food Portion Size and Association with Excess Body Weight in the City of São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Pereira Jaqueline Lopes , Félix Paula Victória , Mattei Josiemer , Fisberg Regina Mara
Published: May 2018

Although changes in Brazilian diet have occurred over the last decades, there is no evidence about differences in food portion sizes (FPS) over time. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the association of FPS with excess body weight (EBW), and to monitor differences in the population from São Paulo, Brazil, from 2003 to 2015. Data came from three cross-sectional population-based studies with 5270 individuals aged ≥12 years in 2003, 2008, and 2015. Dietary data were obtained from 24-h recalls. Logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association between FPS and EBW. Over the years, there was a diverse variation in FPS, with an increase in some groups (white meat, salted snacks, coffee/tea, eggs) and decrease in others (rice, red meat, sweets, pasta, sandwiches, cold cuts). The percentage of people reporting the intake of six food groupings (rice, white meat, sweets, fruits, commercial juices, toasts/biscuits) increased in the period. In this population, EBW was associated with larger FPS of 11 of the 30 food groupings investigated (cold cuts, fried snacks, fruit and commercial juices, pizza, red meat, rice, salted snacks, soft drinks, soups, sugar). These findings could support future interventions and policies for optimal food intake in Brazil.
Associations of Diet and Physical Activity with Risk for Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Mijatovic-Vukas Jovana , Capling Louise , Cheng Sonia , Stamatakis Emmanuel , Louie Jimmy , Cheung N. Wah , Markovic Tania , Ross Glynis , Senior Alistair , Brand-Miller Jennie C. , Flood Victoria M.
Published: May 2018

Rising rates of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and related complications have prompted calls to identify potentially modifiable risk factors that are associated with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). We systematically reviewed the scientific literature for observational studies examining specific dietary and/or physical activity (PA) factors and risk of GDM. Our search included PubMed, Medline, CINAHL/EBSCO, Science Direct and EMBASE, and identified 1167 articles, of which 40 met our inclusion criteria (e.g., singleton pregnancy, reported diet or PA data during pre-pregnancy/early pregnancy and GDM as an outcome measure). Studies were assessed for quality using a modified Quality Criteria Checklist from American Dietetic Association. Of the final 40 studies, 72% obtained a positive quality rating and 28% were rated neutral. The final analysis incorporated data on 30,871 pregnant women. Dietary studies were categorised into either caffeine, carbohydrate, fat, protein, calcium, fast food and recognized dietary patterns. Diets such as Mediterranean Diet (MedDiet), Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet and Alternate Healthy Eating Index diet (AHEI) were associated with 15–38% reduced relative risk of GDM. In contrast, frequent consumption of potato, meat/processed meats, and protein (% energy) derived from animal sources was associated with an increased risk of GDM. Compared to no PA, any pre-pregnancy or early pregnancy PA was associated with 30% and 21% reduced odds of GDM, respectively. Engaging in >90 min/week of leisure time PA before pregnancy was associated with 46% decreased odds of GDM. We conclude that diets resembling MedDiet/DASH diet as well as higher PA levels before or in early pregnancy were associated with lower risks or odds of GDM respectively. The systematic review was registered at PROSPERO (www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO) as CRD42016027795.