bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Involvement of Reactive Oxygen Species in the Hepatorenal Toxicity of Actinomycin V In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Jia Fu-juan , Han Zhuo , Ma Jia-hui , Jiang Shi-qing , Zhao Xing-ming , Ruan Hang , Xie Wei-dong , Li Xia
Published: August 2020

The high toxicity of actinomycin D (Act D) severely limits its use as a first-line chemotherapeutic agent in the clinic. Actinomycin V (Act V), an analog of Act D, exhibited strong anticancer activity in our previous studies. Here, we provide evidence that Act V has less hepatorenal toxicity than Act D in vitro and in vivo, associated with the reactive oxygen species (ROS) pathway. Compared to Act D, Act V exhibited considerably stronger sensitivity for cancer cells and less toxicity to human normal liver LO-2 and human embryonic kidney 293T cells using the MTT (3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide) assay. Notably, Act V caused less damage to both the liver and kidney than Act D in vivo, indicated by organ to body weight ratios, as well as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and serum creatinine (Scr) levels. Further experiments showed that the ROS pathway is involved in Act V-induced hepatorenal toxicity. Act V generates ROS and accumulates malondialdehyde (MDA), reducing levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) in LO-2 and 293T cells. These findings indicate that Act V induces less hepatorenal toxicity than Act D in vitro and in vivo and merits further development as a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of cancer.
Integrative Management of Metabolic Syndrome in Youth Prescribed Second-Generation Antipsychotics
Authors: Rice Jessie , Ramtekkar Ujjwal
Published: August 2020

Weight gain and metabolic syndrome are common side effects of second-generation antipsychotics and carry significant health consequences both in childhood and into adulthood. This review highlights evidence-based, non-pharmacologic interventions to assist in the management of these side effects. Such intervention categories include dietary, physical activity, sleep, stress management, and nutritional supplementation. Interventions with the highest quality evidence include increasing the consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, increasing physical activity, improving sleep, and fish oil supplementation. We suggest that clinicians work with patients on managing metabolic side effects in a patient-centered way, incorporating principles of motivational interviewing, to reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome.
Simulation and Optimization of Electromagnetic Absorption of Polycarbonate/CNT Composites Using Machine Learning
Authors: Sidi Salah Lakhdar , Chouai Mohamed , Danlée Yann , Huynen Isabelle , Ouslimani Nassira
Published: August 2020

Electronic devices that transmit, distribute, or utilize electrical energy create electromagnetic interference (EMI) that can lead to malfunctioning and degradation of electronic devices. EMI shielding materials block the unwanted electromagnetic waves from reaching the target material. EMI issues can be solved by using a new family of building blocks constituted of polymer and nanofillers. The electromagnetic absorption index of this material is calculated by measuring the “S-parameters”. In this article, we investigated the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the EMI shielding field by developing a new system based on a multilayer perceptron neural network designed to predict the electromagnetic absorption of polycarbonate-carbon nanotubes composites films. The proposed system included 15 different multilayer perception (MLP) networks; each network was specialized to predict the absorption value of a specific category sample. The selection of appropriate networks was done automatically, using an independent block. Optimization of the hyper-parameters using hold-out validation was required to ensure the best results. To evaluate the performance of our system, we calculated the similarity error, precision accuracy, and calculation time. The results obtained over our database showed clearly that the system provided a very good result with an average accuracy of 99.7997%, with an overall average calculation time of 0.01295 s. The composite based on polycarbonate−5 wt.% carbon nanotube was found to be the ultimate absorber over microwave range according to Rozanov formalism.
2D Nanomaterial-Based Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensors for Biosensing Applications
Authors: Singh Sachin , Singh Pravin Kumar , Umar Ahmad , Lohia Pooja , Albargi Hasan , Castañeda L. , Dwivedi D. K.
Published: August 2020

The absorption and binding energy of material plays an important role with a large surface area and conductivity for the development of any sensing device. The newly grown 2D nanomaterials like black phosphorus transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) or graphene have excellent properties for sensing devices’ fabrication. This paper summarizes the progress in the area of the 2D nanomaterial-based surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensor during last decade. The paper also focuses on the structure of Kretschmann configuration, the sensing principle of SPR, its characteristic parameters, application in various fields, and some important recent works related to SPR sensors have also been discussed, based on the present and future scope of this field. The present paper provides a platform for researchers to work in the field of 2D nanomaterial-based SPR sensors.
Do Metabolomics and Taxonomic Barcode Markers Tell the Same Story about the Evolution of Saccharomyces sensu stricto Complex in Fermentative Environments?
Authors: Roscini Luca , Conti Angela , Casagrande Pierantoni Debora , Robert Vincent , Corte Laura , Cardinali Gianluigi
Published: August 2020

Yeast taxonomy was introduced based on the idea that physiological properties would help discriminate species, thus assuming a strong link between physiology and taxonomy. However, the instability of physiological characteristics within species configured them as not ideal markers for species delimitation, shading the importance of physiology and paving the way to the DNA-based taxonomy. The hypothesis of reconnecting taxonomy with specific traits from phylogenies has been successfully explored for Bacteria and Archaea, suggesting that a similar route can be traveled for yeasts. In this framework, thirteen single copy loci were used to investigate the predictability of complex Fourier Transform InfaRed spectroscopy (FTIR) and High-performance Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) profiles of the four historical species of the Saccharomyces sensu stricto group, both on resting cells and under short-term ethanol stress. Our data show a significant connection between the taxonomy and physiology of these strains. Eight markers out of the thirteen tested displayed high correlation values with LC-MS profiles of cells in resting condition, confirming the low efficacy of FTIR in the identification of strains of closely related species. Conversely, most genetic markers displayed increasing trends of correlation with FTIR profiles as the ethanol concentration increased, according to their role in the cellular response to different type of stress.
Ibuprofen Degradation and Associated Bacterial Communities in Hyporheic Zone Sediments
Authors: Rutere Cyrus , Knoop Kirsten , Posselt Malte , Ho Adrian , Horn Marcus
Published: August 2020

Ibuprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory pain reliever, is among pharmaceutical residues of environmental concern ubiquitously detected in wastewater effluents and receiving rivers. Thus, ibuprofen removal potentials and associated bacteria in the hyporheic zone sediments of an impacted river were investigated. Microbially mediated ibuprofen degradation was determined in oxic sediment microcosms amended with ibuprofen (5, 40, 200, and 400 µM), or ibuprofen and acetate, relative to an un-amended control. Ibuprofen was removed by the original sediment microbial community as well as in ibuprofen-enrichments obtained by re-feeding of ibuprofen. Here, 1-, 2-, 3-hydroxy- and carboxy-ibuprofen were the primary transformation products. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis revealed a significantly higher 16S rRNA abundance in ibuprofen-amended relative to un-amended incubations. Time-resolved microbial community dynamics evaluated by 16S rRNA gene and 16S rRNA analyses revealed many new ibuprofen responsive taxa of the Acidobacteria, Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Gemmatimonadetes, Latescibacteria, and Proteobacteria. Two ibuprofen-degrading strains belonging to the genera Novosphingobium and Pseudomonas were isolated from the ibuprofen-enriched sediments, consuming 400 and 300 µM ibuprofen within three and eight days, respectively. The collective results indicated that the hyporheic zone sediments sustain an efficient biotic (micro-)pollutant degradation potential, and hitherto unknown microbial diversity associated with such (micro)pollutant removal.
Antimicrobial Prosthetic Surfaces in the Oral Cavity—A Perspective on Creative Approaches
Authors: Garaicoa Jorge L. , Bates Amber M. , Avila-Ortiz Gustavo , Brogden Kim A.
Published: August 2020

Replacement of missing teeth is an essential component of comprehensive dental care for patients suffering of edentulism. A popular option is implant-supported restorations. However, implant surfaces can become colonized with polymicrobial biofilms containing Candida species that may compromise peri-implant health. To prevent this, implant components may be treated with a variety of coatings to create surfaces that either repel the attachment of viable microorganisms or kill microorganisms on contact. These coatings may consist of nanoparticles of pure elements (more commonly silver, copper, and zinc), sanitizing agents and disinfectants (quaternary ammonium ions and chlorhexidine), antibiotics (cefalotin, vancomycin, and gentamicin), or antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). AMPs in bioactive coatings have a number of advantages. They elicit a protective action against pathogens, inhibit the formation of biofilms, are less toxic to host tissues, and do not prompt inflammatory responses. Furthermore, many of these coatings may involve unique delivery systems to direct their antimicrobial capacity against pathogens, but not commensals. Coatings may also contain multiple antimicrobial substances to widen antimicrobial activity across multiple microbial species. Here, we compiled relevant information about a variety of creative approaches used to generate antimicrobial prosthetic surfaces in the oral cavity with the purpose of facilitating implant integration and peri-implant tissue health.
Rheology Impact of Various Hydrophilic-Hydrophobic Balance (HLB) Index Non-Ionic Surfactants on Cyclopentane Hydrates
Authors: Foo Khor Siak , Bavoh Cornelius Borecho , Lal Bhajan , Mohd Shariff Azmi
Published: August 2020

In this study, series of non-ionic surfactants from Span and Tween are evaluated for their ability to affect the viscosity profile of cyclopentane hydrate slurry. The surfactants; Span 20, Span 40, Span 80, Tween 20, Tween 40 and Tween 80 were selected and tested to provide different hydrophilic–hydrophobic balance values and allow evaluation their solubility impact on hydrate formation and growth time. The study was performed by using a HAAKE ViscotesterTM 500 at 2 °C and a surfactant concentration ranging from 0.1 wt%–1 wt%. The solubility characteristic of the non-ionic surfactants changed the hydrate slurry in different ways with surfactants type and varying concentration. The rheological measurement suggested that oil-soluble Span surfactants was generally inhibitive to hydrate formation by extending the hydrate induction time. However, an opposite effect was observed for the Tween surfactants. On the other hand, both Span and Tween demonstrated promoting effect to accelerate hydrate growth time of cyclopentane hydrate formation. The average hydrate crystallization growth time of the blank sample was reduced by 86% and 68% by Tween and Span surfactants at 1 wt%, respectively. The findings in this study are useful to understand the rheological behavior of surfactants in hydrate slurry.
N-Halamine Hydantoin-Containing Chitosan: Synthesis, Characterization, Thermal and Photolytic Stability Studies
Authors: Chylińska Marta , Kaczmarek Halina
Published: August 2020

Current demand for new protective materials ensuring sterility is systematically growing. The purpose of this work was the synthesis of the biocidal N-halamine hydantoin-containing chitosan (CS-CMH-Cl) and characterization of its properties. The functionalization of the chitosan by 5-hydantoinacetic acid substitution leads to obtaining the CS-CMH polymer, which was chlorinated in next step to transform N-H into N-Cl bonds. In this study, the possibility of forming two biocidal N-Cl bonds in hydantoin ring, grafted onto chitosan chains, was proved. The structure and stability of the prepared material was confirmed by spectroscopic (FTIR, NMR, colorimetric test) and microscopic analyses (SEM, AFM). Surface properties were investigated based on contact-angle measurements. In addition, the thermal and photochemical stability of the obtained samples were determined as functional features, determining the range of potential use. It was found that both modified chitosan polymers (CS-CMH and CS-CMH-Cl) were characterized by the smaller thermal stability and more hydrophilic and rougher surface than unmodified CS. Photooxidative degradation of the obtained materials was observed mainly on the sample surface. After irradiation, the surfaces became more hydrophilic—especially in the case of the CS-CMH-Cl—which is advantageous from the point of view of the antibacterial properties. Antibacterial tests against S. aureus and E. coli confirmed the antibacterial activities of received CS-CMH-Cl material.
Implementation of Bismuth Chalcogenides as an Efficient Anode: A Journey from Conventional Liquid Electrolyte to an All-Solid-State Li-Ion Battery
Authors: Singh Rini , Kumari Pooja , Kumar Manoj , Ichikawa Takayuki , Jain Ankur
Published: August 2020

Bismuth chalcogenide (Bi2X3; X = sulfur (S), selenium (Se), and tellurium (Te)) materials are considered as promising materials for diverse applications due to their unique properties. Their narrow bandgap, good thermal conductivity, and environmental friendliness make them suitable candidates for thermoelectric applications, photodetector, sensors along with a wide array of energy storage applications. More specifically, their unique layered structure allows them to intercalate Li+ ions and further provide conducting channels for transport. This property makes these suitable anodes for Li-ion batteries. However, low conductivity and high-volume expansion cause the poor electrochemical cyclability, thus creating a bottleneck to the implementation of these for practical use. Tremendous endeavors have been devoted towards the enhancement of cyclability of these materials, including nanostructuring and the incorporation of a carbon framework matrix to immobilize the nanostructures to prevent agglomeration. Apart from all these techniques to improve the anode properties of Bi2X3 materials, a step towards all-solid-state lithium-ion batteries using Bi2X3-based anodes has also been proven as a key approach for next-generation batteries. This review article highlights the main issues and recent advances associated with Bi2X3 anodes using both solid and liquid electrolytes.
Nanomechanical Properties of Articular Cartilage Due to the PRP Injection in Experimental Osteoarthritis in Rabbits
Authors: Ihnatouski Mikhail , Pauk Jolanta , Karev Boris , Karev Dmitrij
Published: August 2020

The purpose of this study was twofold. Firstly, we proposed a measurement protocol for the atomic force microscopy (AFM) method to determine the nanomechanical properties of articular cartilage in experimental osteoarthritis in rabbits. Then, we verified if mechanical properties can be evaluated with AFM shortly after platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection. We hypothesized that the modulus determined by AFM indentation experiments could be utilized as a progressive disease marker during the treatment of osteoarthritis. The rabbits were equally divided into three groups of six: control (group 1); injections of saline (0.5 mL) and 10% surgical talc (Talcum Pharmaceutical®, Minsk, Belarus) were delivered into the right knee under the patella (group 2 and 3); and PRP was injected into the right knee (group 3). In group 2, the arithmetic average of absolute values (Ra) change was a 25% increase; the maximum peak height (Rp) increased by over 102%, while the mean spacing between local peaks (S) increased by 28% (p < 0.05). In group 3, Ra increased by 14% and Rp increased by 32%, while S decreased by 75% (p < 0.05). The Young’s modulus of the surface layers decreased by 18% as a result of induced model of osteoarthritis (IMO) (p < 0.05), and it increased by 9% (p < 0.05) as a result of PRP therapy, which means that the mechanical properties of cartilage were partially recovered. This research demonstrates that Young’s modulus utilized on a nanometer scale has potential to be a progressive disease marker during the treatment of osteoarthritis.
Emotion and Interaction Control: A Motive-Based Approach to Media Choice in Socio-Emotional Communication
Authors: Tretter Stefan , Diefenbach Sarah
Published: August 2020

A large part of everyday communication is mediated by technology, with a constantly growing number of choices. Accordingly, how people choose between different communication media is a long-standing research question. However, while prominent media theories focus on how media characteristics affect communication performance, the underlying psychological motives of media choice and how different technologies comply with these are less considered. We propose a theoretical framework that links media characteristics with peoples’ intentions to influence communication and present a qualitative study on reasons for media choice in socio-emotional situations. An analysis through the lens of the framework illustrates how users employ media to establish control over the interactional speed and emotional intensity of communication and thereby regulate their communication experience. Besides an advanced theoretical understanding, the present analysis provides a basis for a conscious design of communication media, to deliberately shape the way people interact with technology and each other.
Game-Like 3D Visualisation of Air Quality Data
Authors: Teles Bruno , Mariano Pedro , Santana Pedro
Published: August 2020

The data produced by sensor networks for urban air quality monitoring is becoming a valuable asset for informed health-aware human activity planning. However, in order to properly explore and exploit these data, citizens need intuitive and effective ways of interacting with it. This paper presents CityOnStats, a visualisation tool developed to provide users, mainly adults and young adults, with a game-like 3D environment populated with air quality sensing data, as an alternative to the traditionally passive visualisation techniques. CityOnStats provides several visual cues of pollution presence with the purpose of meeting each user’s preferences. Usability tests with a sample of 30 participants have shown the value of air quality 3D game-based visualisation and have provided empirical support for which visual cues are most adequate for the task at hand.
Nanocomposites of NiO/CuO Based MOF with rGO: An Efficient and Robust Electrocatalyst for Methanol Oxidation Reaction in DMFC
Authors: Noor Tayyaba , Pervaiz Sadaf , Iqbal Naseem , Nasir Habib , Zaman Neelam , Sharif Muhammad , Pervaiz Erum
Published: August 2020

In this work a novel bimetallic nickel oxide/copper oxide metal–organic framework (NiO/CuO MOF) has been developed by using two linkers: Benzene Dicarboxylic acid (BDC) and Pyrazine. The composites of NiO/CuO MOF with different amounts of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) were synthesized through a hydrothermal method and subsequently characterized by multiple significant techniques like XRD, SEM, EDX, FTIR and Raman IR for an investigation of their structural and morphological properties. The prepared series of material was later employed for electrochemical oxidation of methanol, tested by cyclic voltammetry (CV) in basic medium on a modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE). The electrochemical response depicts that increasing concentration of rGO enhances the electrocatalytic activity of the catalyst for methanol oxidation reaction (MOR). The catalyzed oxidation reaction of methanol by NiO/CuO MOF and rGO-NiO/CuO MOF composites give a superlative current density of 437. 28 mA/cm2 at 0.9 V potential at 50 mV/s scan rate. This activity makes it a promising catalytic material for electrolysis of methanol in direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC).
The Role of Zinc in Selected Female Reproductive System Disorders
Authors: Nasiadek Marzenna , Stragierowicz Joanna , Klimczak Michał , Kilanowicz Anna
Published: August 2020

Zinc is an essential microelement that plays many important functions in the body. It is crucial for the regulation of cell growth, hormone release, immunological response and reproduction. This review focuses on its importance in the reproductive system of women of reproductive and postmenopausal ages, not including its well described role in pregnancy. Only recently, attention has been drawn to the potential role of zinc in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), dysmenorrhea, or endometriosis. This review is mainly based on 36 randomized, controlled studies on reproductive, pre- and post-menopausal populations of women and on research trying to explain the potential impact of zinc and its supplementation in the etiology of selected female reproductive system disorders. In women with PCOS, zinc supplementation has a positive effect on many parameters, especially those related to insulin resistance and lipid balance. In primary dysmenorrhea, zinc supplementation before and during each menstrual cycle seems to be an important factor reducing the intensity of menstrual pain. On the other hand, little is known of the role of zinc in endometriosis and in postmenopausal women. Therefore, further studies explaining the potential impact of zinc and its supplementation on female reproductive system would be highly advisable and valuable.
Machine Learning Models to Predict Childhood and Adolescent Obesity: A Review
Authors: Colmenarejo Gonzalo
Published: August 2020

The prevalence of childhood and adolescence overweight an obesity is raising at an alarming rate in many countries. This poses a serious threat to the current and near-future health systems, given the association of these conditions with different comorbidities (cardiovascular diseases, type II diabetes, and metabolic syndrome) and even death. In order to design appropriate strategies for its prevention, as well as understand its origins, the development of predictive models for childhood/adolescent overweight/obesity and related outcomes is of extreme value. Obesity has a complex etiology, and in the case of childhood and adolescence obesity, this etiology includes also specific factors like (pre)-gestational ones; weaning; and the huge anthropometric, metabolic, and hormonal changes that during this period the body suffers. In this way, Machine Learning models are becoming extremely useful tools in this area, given their excellent predictive power; ability to model complex, nonlinear relationships between variables; and capacity to deal with high-dimensional data typical in this area. This is especially important given the recent appearance of large repositories of Electronic Health Records (EHR) that allow the development of models using datasets with many instances and predictor variables, from which Deep Learning variants can generate extremely accurate predictions. In the current work, the area of Machine Learning models to predict childhood and adolescent obesity and related outcomes is comprehensively and critically reviewed, including the latest ones using Deep Learning with EHR. These models are compared with the traditional statistical ones that used mainly logistic regression. The main features and applications appearing from these models are described, and the future opportunities are discussed.
Dietary Intake, Nutritional Adequacy and Food Sources of Total Fat and Fatty Acids, and Relationships with Personal and Family Factors in Spanish Children Aged One to <10 Years: Results of the EsNuPI Study
Authors: Madrigal Casandra , Soto-Méndez María José , Leis Rosaura , Hernández-Ruiz Ángela , Valero Teresa , Lara Villoslada Federico , Martínez de Victoria Emilio , Moreno José Manuel , Ortega Rosa M. , Ruiz-López María Dolores , Varela-Moreiras Gregorio , Gil Ángel
Published: August 2020

We aimed to determine the usual intake of total fat, fatty acids (FAs), and their main food sources in a representative cohort of the Spanish pediatric population aged 1 to <10 years (n = 707) who consumed all types of milk and an age-matched cohort who consumed adapted milk over the last year (including follow-on formula, toddler’s milk, growing-up milk, and fortified and enriched milks) (n = 741) who were participants in the EsNuPI study (in English, Nutritional Study in the Spanish Pediatric Population). Dietary intake, measured through two 24 h dietary recalls, was compared to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (UN-FAO) recommendations. Both cohorts showed a high intake of saturated fatty acids (SFAs), according to FAO recommendations, as there are no numerical recommendations for SFAs at EFSA. Also, low intake of essential fatty acids (EFAs; linoleic acid (LA) and α-linolenic acid (ALA)) and long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA) of the n-3 series, mainly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) were observed according to EFSA and FAO recommendations. The three main sources of total fat and different FAs were milk and dairy products, oils and fats, and meat and meat products. The consumption of adapted milk was one of the main factors associated with better adherence to the nutritional recommendations of total fat, SFAs, EFAs, PUFAs; and resulted as the main factor associated with better adherence to n-3 fatty acids intake recommendations. Knowledge of the dietary intake and food sources of total fat and FAs in children could help in designing and promoting effective and practical age-targeted guidelines to promote the consumption of EFA- and n-3 PUFA-rich foods in this stage of life.
The Intake of a Cafeteria Diet in Nursing Rats Alters the Breast Milk Concentration of Proteins Important for the Development of Offspring
Authors: Pomar Catalina Amadora , Sánchez Juana , Palou Andreu
Published: August 2020

We aimed to analyse the effects of maternal intake of an unbalanced diet during lactation in the composition and the levels of proteins present in milk. Milk samples from control nursing dams (C-dams) or from nursing dams fed a cafeteria diet during lactation (CAF-dams) were obtained. We conducted a proteomic approach to identify significantly altered proteins in breast milk of C- and CAF-dams, and evaluated the levels of leptin, adiponectin and irisin for their implication in energy homeostasis. One-dimensional SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), followed by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), revealed that the bands that presented a lower intensity in CAF-dams than control contain some caseins (α-S1-casein, α-S2-casein like B, and β-casein), α-lactalbumin and haptoglobin. Leptin and adiponectin levels were greater in the breast milk of CAF-dams than in controls, while levels of irisin were lower. In summary, the relative concentration of bioactive peptides was influenced by maternal diet consumption during lactation; these changes at early stages of life could influence the phenotypic traits of the offspring.
BLIGHTSIM: A New Potato Late Blight Model Simulating the Response of Phytophthora infestans to Diurnal Temperature and Humidity Fluctuations in Relation to Climate Change
Authors: Narouei-Khandan Hossein A. , Shakya Shankar K. , Garrett Karen A. , Goss Erica M. , Dufault Nicholas S. , Andrade-Piedra Jorge L. , Asseng Senthold , Wallach Daniel , Bruggen Ariena H.C van
Published: August 2020

Temperature response curves under diurnal oscillating temperatures differ from those under constant conditions for all stages of the Phytophthora infestans infection cycle on potatoes. We developed a mechanistic model (BLIGHTSIM) with an hourly time step to simulate late blight under fluctuating environmental conditions and predict late blight epidemics in potato fields. BLIGHTSIM is a modified susceptible (S), latent (L), infectious (I) and removed (R) compartmental model with hourly temperature and relative humidity as driving variables. The model was calibrated with growth chamber data covering one infection cycle and validated with field data from Ecuador. The model provided a good fit to all data sets evaluated. There was a significant interaction between average temperature and amplitude in their effects on the area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC) as predicted from growth chamber data on a single infection cycle. BLIGHTSIM can be incorporated in a potato growth model to study effects of diurnal temperature range on late blight impact under climate change scenarios.
Trypanosomatid Infections among Vertebrates of Chile: A Systematic Review
Authors: Correa Juana P. , Bacigalupo Antonella , Yefi-Quinteros Esteban , Rojo Gemma , Solari Aldo , Cattan Pedro E. , Botto-Mahan Carezza
Published: August 2020

We present a review on the natural infection by trypanosomatids of nonhuman vertebrates in Chile, aiming to synthesize and update the knowledge on the diversity of trypanosomatids infecting native and alien vertebrate species. To this end, we conducted a systematic review of literature records published from 1900 to April 2020 on four databases, focusing on the 21 genera of trypanosomatids and Chile. The methods and findings of our review have been based on the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis (prisma) checklist. We found 29,756 records but only 71 presented relevant information for this review. Overall, there are only two reported trypanosomatid genera infecting vertebrate species in Chile, the genera Trypanosoma and Leishmania. The former is mostly represented by Trypanosoma cruzi (90% of the total records) and to a much lesser extent by Trypanosoma avium, Trypanosoma humboldti, Trypanosoma lewisi, and a couple of unidentified trypanosomatids. A total of 25 mammals have been reported as being infected by T. cruzi, including 14 native and 11 alien species from Orders Artiodactyla, Carnivora, Chiroptera, Didelphimorphia, Lagomorpha, Perissodactyla, and Rodentia. Extensive screening studies using new analytical tools are necessary to grasp the whole potential diversity of trypanosomatid species infecting vertebrates in Chile.
Juvenile Hemochromatosis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Takami Akiyoshi , Tatsumi Yasuaki , Sakai Katsuhisa , Toki Yasumichi , Ikuta Katsuya , Oohigashi Yuka , Takagi Junko , Kato Koichi , Takami Kazuhisa
Published: August 2020

Juvenile hemochromatosis (JH), type 2A hemochromatosis, is a rare autosomal recessive disorder of systemic iron overload due to homozygous mutations of HJV (HFE2), which encodes hemojuvelin, an essential regulator of the hepcidin expression, causing liver fibrosis, diabetes, and heart failure before 30 years of age, often with fatal outcomes. We report two Japanese sisters of 37 and 52 years of age, with JH, who showed the same homozygous HJV I281T mutation and hepcidin deficiency and who both responded well to phlebotomy on an outpatient basis. When all reported cases of JH with homozygous HJV mutations in the relevant literature were reviewed, we found—for the first time—that JH developed in females and males at a ratio of 3:2, with no age difference in the two groups. Furthermore, we found that the age of onset of JH may depend on the types of HJV mutations. In comparison to patients with the most common G320V/G320V mutation, JH developed earlier in patients with L101P/L101P or R385X/R385X mutations and later in patients with I281T/I281T mutations.
Chlorophyll a Fluorescence Transient and 2-Dimensional Electrophoresis Analyses Reveal Response Characteristics of Photosynthesis to Heat Stress in Malus. ‘Prairifire’
Authors: Wang Tao , Luo Siqian , Ma Yingli , Li Lingyu , Xie Yinfeng , Zhang Wangxiang
Published: August 2020

Flowering crabapples are a series of precious ornamental woody plants. However, their growth and development are inhibited in the subtropical regions due to the weak photosynthesis under high-temperature environment in the summer. Chlorophyll a fluorescence transient and 2-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) analyses were conducted to investigate the response characteristics of photosynthesis under simulated 38 °C heat stress in leaves of Malus. ‘Prairifire’, a spring-red leaf cultivar of flowering crabapple with strong thermal adaptability. In the present study, the net photosynthetic rate (Pn) was significantly decreased during the heat shock process, which showed a similar trend to the stomatal conductance (Gs), indicating a sensitive stomatal behavior to heat stress. Moreover, an efficient reaction center in photosystem II (PSII), and a functionally intact oxygen-evolving complex (OEC) conferred strong photosynthetic adaptability under heat stress. The higher level of transketolase (TK) under 48-h heat shock treatment was considered a protective mechanism of photosynthetic apparatus. However, heat stress inhibited the functions of light harvesting complex II (LHCII), electron transport in PSII, and the levels of key enzymes in the Calvin cycle, which were considered as the reasons causing an increase in the proportion of non-stomatal restrictions.
Genomic Characterization and Expression Analysis of Basic Helix-Loop-Helix (bHLH) Family Genes in Traditional Chinese Herb Dendrobium officinale
Authors: Wang Yue , Liu Aizhong
Published: August 2020

Dendrobium officinale Kimura et Migo is of great importance as a traditional Chinese herb due to its abundant metabolites. The family of basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factors widely exists in plants and plays an essential role in plant growth and development, secondary metabolism as well as responses to environmental changes. However, there is limited information on bHLH genes in D. officinale. In the present study, a total of 98 putative DobHLH genes were identified at the genomic level, which could be classified into 18 clades. Gene structures and conserved motifs in DobHLH genes showed high conservation during their evolution. The conserved amino acids and DNA bindings of DobHLH proteins were predicted, both of which are pivotal for their function. Furthermore, gene expression from eight tissues showed that some DobHLH genes were ubiquitously expressed while other DobHLH genes were expressed in the specific tissues. Expressional changes of DobHLH genes under MeJA and ABA treatments were detected by qRT-PCR. The protein–protein interactions between DobHLHs were predicted and several interactions were confirmed by yeast two hybrid. Therefore, our results here contribute to the understanding of bHLH genes in D. officinale and lay a foundation for the further functional study of its biological processes.
Development of Biocomposite Polymeric Systems Loaded with Antibacterial Nanoparticles for the Coating of Polypropylene Biomaterials
Authors: Fernández-Gutiérrez Mar , Pérez-Köhler Bárbara , Benito-Martínez Selma , García-Moreno Francisca , Pascual Gemma , García-Fernández Luis , Aguilar María Rosa , Vázquez-Lasa Blanca , Bellón Juan Manuel
Published: August 2020

The development of a biocomposite polymeric system for the antibacterial coating of polypropylene mesh materials for hernia repair is reported. Coatings were constituted by a film of chitosan containing randomly dispersed poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) nanoparticles loaded with chlorhexidine or rifampicin. The chlorhexidine-loaded system exhibited a burst release during the first day reaching the release of the loaded drug in three or four days, whereas rifampicin was gradually released for at least 11 days. Both antibacterial coated meshes were highly active against Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis (106 CFU/mL), displaying zones of inhibition that lasted for 7 days (chlorhexidine) or 14 days (rifampicin). Apparently, both systems inhibited bacterial growth in the surrounding environment, as well as avoided bacterial adhesion to the mesh surface. These polymeric coatings loaded with biodegradable nanoparticles containing antimicrobials effectively precluded bacterial colonization of the biomaterial. Both biocomposites showed adequate performance and thus could have potential application in the design of antimicrobial coatings for the prophylactic coating of polypropylene materials for hernia repair.
A Kinetic Analysis of the Thermal Degradation Behaviours of Some Bio-Based Substrates
Authors: Thomas Ananya , Moinuddin Khalid , Tretsiakova-McNally Svetlana , Joseph Paul
Published: August 2020

In the present paper, we report on a detailed study regarding the thermal degradation behaviours of some bio-sourced substrates. These were previously identified as the base materials in the formulations for fireproofing wood plaques through our investigations. The substrates included: β-cyclodextrin, dextran, potato starch, agar-agar, tamarind kernel powder and chitosan. For deducing the Arrhenius parameters from thermograms obtained through routine thermogravimetric analyses (TGA), we used the standard Flynn–Wall–Ozawa (FWO) method and employed an in-house developed proprietary software. In the former case, five different heating rates were used, whereas in the latter case, the data from one dynamic heating regime were utilized. Given that the FWO method is essentially based on a model-free approach that also makes use of multiple heating rates, it can be considered in the present context as superior to the one that is dependent on a single heating rate. It is also relevant to note here that the values of energy of activation (Ea) obtained in each case should only be considered as apparent values at best. Furthermore, some useful, but limited, correlations were identified between the Ea values and the relevant parameters obtained earlier by us from pyrolysis combustion flow calorimetry (PCFC).
Association between Nonionic Amphiphilic Polymer and Ionic Surfactant in Aqueous Solutions: Effect of Polymer Hydrophobicity and Micellization
Authors: Kancharla Samhitha , Zoyhofski Nathan A. , Bufalini Lucas , Chatelais Boris F. , Alexandridis Paschalis
Published: August 2020

The interaction in aqueous solutions of surfactants with amphiphilic polymers can be more complex than the surfactant interactions with homopolymers. Interactions between the common ionic surfactant sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and nonionic amphiphilic polymers of the poly(ethylene oxide)–poly(propylene oxide)–poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO-PPO-PEO) type have been probed utilizing a variety of experimental techniques. The polymer amphiphiles studied here are Pluronic F127 (EO100PO65EO100) and Pluronic P123 (EO19PO69EO19), having the same length PPO block but different length PEO blocks and, accordingly, very different critical micellization concentrations (CMC). With increasing surfactant concentration in aqueous solutions of fixed polymer content, SDS interacts with unassociated PEO-PPO-PEO molecules to first form SDS-rich SDS/Pluronic assemblies and then free SDS micelles. SDS interacts with micellized PEO-PPO-PEO to form Pluronic-rich SDS/Pluronic assemblies, which upon further increase in surfactant concentration, break down and transition into SDS-rich SDS/Pluronic assemblies, followed by free SDS micelle formation. The SDS-rich SDS/Pluronic assemblies exhibit polyelectrolyte characteristics. The interactions and mode of association between nonionic macromolecular amphiphiles and short-chain ionic amphiphiles are affected by the polymer hydrophobicity and its concentration in the aqueous solution. For example, SDS binds to Pluronic F127 micelles at much lower concentrations (~0.01 mM) when compared to Pluronic P123 micelles (~1 mM). The critical association concentration (CAC) values of SDS in aqueous PEO-PPO-PEO solutions are much lower than CAC in aqueous PEO homopolymer solutions.
Performance, Emissions, Combustion and Vibration Analysis of a CI Engine Fueled with Coconut and Used Palm Cooking Oil Methyl Ester
Authors: Teoh Yew Heng , How Heoy Geok , Balakrishnan Navaneetha Krishnan , Le Thanh Danh , Nguyen Huu Tho
Published: August 2020

Biodiesels from coconut and palm cooking oil are viable alternatives to diesel fuel due to their environmental sustainability and similar physicochemical properties compared to diesel. In the present study, these fuels were tested separately in a diesel engine by blending with fossil diesel in proportions of 10%, 20%, 30% and 40% by volume. Experiments were conducted under a constant brake mean effective pressure (BMEP) of 400 kPa and at 2000 rpm. The results revealed similarities in engine performance, emissions, combustion and engine block vibration for used palm cooking oil methyl ester (UPME) fuel blends and coconut methyl ester (CME) fuel blends. Most blends resulted in slight improvements in brake specific energy consumption (BSEC) and brake thermal efficiency (BTE). A maximum reduction of 54%, 89% and 16.8% in pollutant emissions of brake specific hydrocarbons (BSHC), brake specific carbon monoxide (BSCO) and brake specific nitrogen oxides (BSNOx), respectively, was observed with UPME and CME in the blends. The cylinder pressure profiles when UPME-diesel and CME-diesel blends were used were comparable to a standard diesel pressure trace, however, some deviations in peak pressure were also noticed. It was also apparent from the results that engine vibration was influenced by the type of methyl ester used and its blend composition. Notably, the rate of pressure increase was maintained within an acceptable limit when the engine was fueled with both of the methyl ester blends.
Technical Aspects of Biofuel Production from Different Sources in Malaysia—A Review
Authors: Rezania Shahabaldin , Oryani Bahareh , Cho Jinwoo , Sabbagh Farzaneh , Rupani Parveen Fatemeh , Talaiekhozani Amirreza , Rahimi Negar , Lotfi Ghahroud Majid
Published: August 2020

Due to the depletion of fossil fuels, biofuel production from renewable sources has gained interest. Malaysia, as a tropical country with huge resources, has a high potential to produce different types of biofuels from renewable sources. In Malaysia, biofuels can be produced from various sources, such as lignocellulosic biomass, palm oil residues, and municipal wastes. Besides, biofuels are divided into two main categories, called liquid (bioethanol and biodiesel) and gaseous (biohydrogen and biogas). Malaysia agreed to reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 45% by 2030 as they signed the Paris agreement in 2016. Therefore, we reviewed the status and potential of Malaysia as one of the main biofuel producers in the world in recent years. The role of government and existing policies have been discussed to analyze the outlook of the biofuel industries in Malaysia.
Targeting Collagen Type III in Proteinuric Kidney Disease: Informing Drug Potential Using the Jaccard–Tanimoto Index
Authors: Liu Michelle , Dalvi Anoushka , Dalapati Sony , Prakash Natalia , Hu Zhijian , Zhou Ping , Jiang Kai , Pellicano Anthony , Goldberg Itzhak D. , Narayan Prakash
Published: August 2020

Collagenofibrotic glomerulopathy, a collagen type III kidney disease, is associated with proteinuria and accumulation ofcollagen type III in the glomerulus specifically the mesangium and/or capillary walls. The puromcyin aminonucleoside (PAN) nephropathy model was evaluated to examine the relation between COL3A1 mRNA and proteinuria. In Wistar rats administered PAN, a robust increase in proteinuria was accompanied by glomerular hypertrophy and expansion of both the Bowman’s capsule and Bowman’s space. An ~4-fold increase in renal COL3A1 mRNA was observed in the PAN cohort with urine protein exhibiting a direct (r = 0.8) and significant correlation with kidney COL3A1 mRNA level. Both Picrosirius red polarized microscopy and immunohistochemical analysis showed localization of collagen type III to the glomerular mesangium. Gene ontology-driven transcriptomic analysis reveals a robust COL3A1 network in the glomerular compartment.
Process Optimization for Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Indonesian Medicinal Plant Extracts
Authors: Kartini Kartini , Alviani Amarisa , Anjarwati Dia , Fanany Adinda Finna , Sukweenadhi Johan , Avanti Christina
Published: August 2020

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are an interesting metal nanoparticle that can be incorporated into pharmaceutical products, including for diabetic foot ulcers as an antimicrobial agent. Green synthesis of AgNPs using plant extracts has been drawing much attention as it is simple, eco-friendly, stable, and cost-effective. This present study was performed to evaluate the potential of three Indonesian medicinal plant extracts, namely Phyllanthus niruri (PN), Orthosiphon stamineus (OS), and Curcuma longa (CL), as reducing and capping agents in the green synthesis of AgNPs, and to optimize their concentrations. Based on the yields and characteristics of the formed nanoparticles, which were analyzed using a UV-Vis spectrophotometer, particle size analyzer, scanning electron microscope, and X-ray diffractometer, Phyllanthus niruri extract at a concentration of 0.5% was concluded as the best extract in the green synthesis of AgNPs. It is thereby a prospective reducing and capping agent for further scale-up studies.
Religiosity of Polish Catholics in the UK: Attitude towards Faith, Affiliation, Membership and Religious Practices
Authors: Wódka Marek , Fel Stanisław , Kozak Jarosław
Published: August 2020

This paper is based on sociological quantitative studies carried out in 2019 on a sample of 620 Polish Catholics living in London, Swindon, or Oxford. Those studies and their findings are limited only to those Catholics who make up the communities around major Polish institutions in the UK, such as Polish parishes, Saturday schools, and community houses. The goal of this paper is to describe selected aspects of Polish migrants’ religiosity in the new social and cultural milieu. What we focus on here is how Poles themselves describe their faith, how they understand and evaluate their membership of parishes or other religious communities, and how they approach religious practices, especially Sunday Mass attendance. We address the following questions: how do the Poles living abroad describe their attitudes towards faith? How many of them are active members of Polish parishes? What do their religious practices and membership of other community organisations look like? How do specific factors affect the results across these areas?